Finding the right backpack for high school or college can be a daunting task, especially with the variety of options available today. A backpack needs to be stylish, functional, durable, and comfortable enough to carry all the necessary books, laptops, and personal items for a full day of classes and activities. Whether you’re looking for the best backpacks for men, the most versatile backpacks for school, or even the best laptop bags for men, this guide is here to help.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about picking the right backpack, as well as highlight some of the best brands, designs, and features to look for. We’ll also address common questions like “What is a good backpack brand?” and “What size backpack is best for college?”
Why the Right Backpack Matters for Students
A well-chosen backpack can make a significant difference in a student’s daily routine. High school and college students often need to carry heavy textbooks, laptops, notebooks, and personal items. A poor-quality backpack can lead to discomfort, poor posture, and even back or shoulder pain over time.
Choosing a backpack with proper ergonomic support is crucial to ensuring long-term comfort. Additionally, features like padded laptop compartments, water-resistant materials, and multiple compartments for organization make a huge difference in convenience.
Key Features to Consider
Before diving into our top picks for student wear backpacks, let’s take a look at some of the key features you should keep in mind when shopping for the best backpacks for school.
1. Durability
Durability is essential when choosing a backpack. High school and college students will be using their backpacks every day, sometimes carrying heavy loads. Look for backpacks made from sturdy materials such as polyester, nylon, or canvas that can withstand daily wear and tear.
2. Comfort
A comfortable backpack should have padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and adjustable straps. Some of the best backpacks for men also offer chest and waist straps to help distribute the weight evenly, making it easier to carry heavier loads without straining the shoulders.
3. Laptop Compartment
For many students, having a secure laptop compartment is non-negotiable. The best laptop bags for men and women will have a well-padded compartment to protect laptops from bumps and falls. Some backpacks even have dedicated sleeves for tablets.
4. Storage Space and Organization
The best backpacks for school offer plenty of space and well-organized compartments for carrying everything a student might need. Multiple pockets, compartments for pens and notebooks, and even hidden pouches for valuables are great additions.
5. Water Resistance
Accidents happen, and so does bad weather. A water-resistant backpack will protect your belongings from rain, spilled drinks, and other unexpected mishaps.
6. Style
For students, style matters. Student wear backpacks come in various colors, patterns, and designs to suit different personalities. From sleek, minimalistic designs to bold and trendy patterns, there’s something for everyone.
Top Picks for the Best Backpacks for High School and College Students
Now that we’ve covered the essentials, here are some of the best backpacks that offer a mix of functionality, style, and durability. Whether you’re looking for the best laptop bags for men or a versatile student wear backpack, we’ve got you covered.
1. Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
Matein is known for producing some of the best laptop bags for men, and this travel laptop backpack is no exception. It’s designed with a spacious main compartment, a dedicated padded laptop sleeve (up to 15.6 inches), and multiple smaller pockets for organizing pens, notebooks, and other essentials.
This backpack also includes a USB charging port, making it easy for students to charge their devices on the go. Its water-resistant fabric ensures that everything inside stays dry during rainy days. With its comfortable, padded shoulder straps and ergonomic design, it’s one of the most comfortable student wear backpacks available.
2. JanSport Big Student Backpack
For decades, JanSport has been a go-to brand for backpacks for school. The Big Student Backpack is one of their most popular models, known for its large capacity and durable construction. This backpack has two spacious main compartments, making it easy to store textbooks, notebooks, and even a laptop.
It also features an additional front compartment with a built-in organizer for pens, keys, and other small items. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, this backpack is perfect for students looking for something stylish and functional.
3. Herschel Supply Co. Little America Laptop Backpack
The Herschel Little America is a stylish and functional backpack that’s popular among college students. Known for its sleek, modern design, this backpack offers a spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve (up to 15 inches). Its adjustable drawstring closure and magnetic strap closures add a classic touch.
The padded back panel and shoulder straps make this a comfortable option for long days on campus, and its durable canvas material ensures it can handle daily wear. If you’re looking for a student wear backpack that’s stylish yet practical, this is an excellent choice.
4. North Face Borealis Backpack
The North Face Borealis Backpack is a versatile choice for both high school and college students. It’s designed with comfort in mind, featuring a FlexVent suspension system that includes custom injection-molded shoulder straps and a padded mesh back panel. These features make it one of the most comfortable backpacks for school available.
With a large main compartment, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and plenty of smaller pockets for organization, it’s easy to see why this backpack is so popular. The durable, water-resistant material is perfect for students who need a reliable backpack that can handle all weather conditions.
5. Tzowla Business Laptop Backpack
The Tzowla Business Laptop Backpack is perfect for college students who need a professional-looking backpack. This model features a spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve that can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches. It also includes several smaller compartments for organizing books, notebooks, and other essentials.
One of the standout features of this backpack is the built-in USB charging port, which is perfect for students who need to charge their devices while on the go. The Tzowla backpack is made from durable, water-resistant polyester and features an anti-theft lock, making it a great choice for students who prioritize security.
Why These Backpacks Stand Out
All of the backpacks mentioned above offer a combination of functionality, style, and durability, making them ideal for students. The best backpacks for men not only need to be sturdy but also provide enough storage space and comfort for everyday use. Similarly, the best laptop bags for men should provide a secure compartment for tech gadgets, while the best backpacks for school must accommodate heavy textbooks and other school supplies.
How to Choose the Right Backpack for You
With so many options available, choosing the right backpack can feel overwhelming. To make the decision easier, here are a few tips to consider:
- Assess Your Needs: Think about what you’ll be carrying on a daily basis. Do you need a backpack with a large laptop compartment? Will you be carrying heavy textbooks? Knowing your specific needs will help narrow down your options.
- Prioritize Comfort: Look for a backpack with padded shoulder straps and back panels. Adjustable straps will also help you get the right fit for your body.
- Consider Style: Backpacks are not only functional but also a fashion statement. Choose a backpack that reflects your personal style while meeting your practical needs.
- Check Durability: High school and college students use their backpacks every day, so you’ll want something that’s built to last. Look for strong, tear-resistant materials like polyester or nylon.
What bag is best for university?
The best bag for university is one that offers ample storage, a padded laptop compartment, and ergonomic support. Backpacks like the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack or the Herschel Little America are excellent choices due to their spacious interiors, comfort features, and stylish designs.
What backpacks are popular right now?
Some of the most popular backpacks among students right now include the JanSport Big Student Backpack, Herschel Little America, and North Face Borealis. These backpacks combine style, functionality, and durability, making them a favorite among both high school and college students.
What is a good backpack brand?
Several brands are known for producing high-quality backpacks, including JanSport, Herschel Supply Co., The North Face, and Matein. These brands consistently offer durable, comfortable, and stylish backpacks that are perfect for students.
What is a good size backpack for college?
A good size for a college backpack is around 20-30 liters. This size provides enough room for textbooks, notebooks, a laptop, and other essentials without being overly bulky. Many of the backpacks on this list, such as the North Face Borealis and the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, fall within this range, offering the perfect balance of capacity and portability.