15 Best Backpacks for School 2023: Affordable Picks from Nike, Jansport, and More

Pros: Travel-friendly backpack, Made with 100% recycled polyester 

Cons: Some shoppers wish it came with smaller pockets on the front and top flap.

Dimensions: 17.5 x 7.25 x 12 inches 

Weight: 27L

Storage: One exterior 15-inch laptop zip pocket, two zip-closure pockets, one external water bottle pocket, one internal water bottle pocket, two internal slip pockets 

Warranty: N/A

Review: “Everlane, you’ve nailed it! I’ve been looking for a backpack that I can use for both work and travel, something that is comfortable, roomy, AND stylish—and after much searching, I’ve found it.”

L.L.Bean’s ripstop-nylon laptop pack looks like it can weather just about anything — and that’s because it can. (The water-repellent fabric is machine-washable, so do your worst.) Its 30-liter size is generously sized to fit textbooks, study notes, and gym clothes, with a padded laptop sleeve allowing you to pack your tech painlessly after class.

Pros: Built-in extra foam padding, Breathable mesh straps

Cons: Some customers note the fabric quality is not well-made.

Dimensions: 18.75 x 11.75 x 10 inches

Weight: 30L

Storage: Built-in organizer panel with multiple zippered pockets, padded laptop sleeve to fit laptops up to 15-inches, one large interior compartment, one exterior top pocket for each access to cell phone 

Warranty: No warranty info is provided, but returns are accepted on unused products within 30 days of shipment for orders shipped within the US.

Review: “Lots of love from Washington State! Great size pack for my middle schooler, carries all the textbooks, laptop computers, and lunch. Good quality, so I know he’ll have it year after year. My 11-year-old says: “It has a lot of good pockets, and it seems light!”

This backpack set is a must-have for high school students. It comes with a matching backpack, pencil case, and cross-body bag that can be used to store lunch or gym clothes. It also comes in various colorways and prints, you can mix and match with all your outfits. The best part? It’s only $35! 

Pros: Padded shoulder straps, Water-resistant fabric 

Cons: Some users noted that after two months of use, the shoulder straps started falling apart.

Dimensions: 16.9 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches

Weight: 1.76 pounds 

Storage: One internal pocket sleeve that fits laptops and tablets that are up to 14-inches, several interior pockets to store supplies, two external side pockets, one front exterior flap pocket 

Warranty: You’ll need to contact the seller directly for warranty information. 

Review: “The stitching is very well done. The material is sturdy but fashionable. I am very pleased with this quality product. I use this backpack as a day-pack and the medium-size one as my new favorite purse. It is beautiful and functional.”

There’s a reason why college students and recent grads gravitate towards Dagne Dover’s durable neoprene bags. They’re spill-proof, highly giftable, and professional-looking without being fussy. Did we mention they have a special side pocket for your phone and your phone only?