11 Best Trendy Backpacks for High School and College 2024 | Teen Vogue

Oct 16, 2024

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Trendy backpacks are arguably more important than the OOTD—it’s a daily must-have accessory, whether headed to class or traveling the world. And while style is a major factor, function is just as important. You know, so it can hold all the goods in an organized fashion without completely weighing you down.

To find the best backpacks, we tested out a few styles to see how much they could hold, how comfortable they felt, and how durable they were. Our top picks get an A+ for being affordable, versatile, and feature-packed. The number one winner is the Dakine Campus Backpack. Thanks to the padding and spacious compartments, we were impressed by how much it could hold and how comfortable it felt while on the shoulders. Check it out below.

Dakine

Amazon

This campus backpack has a roomy design that features multiple four compartments, including a large main one with a padded laptop sleeve and room for additional notebooks, and a second interior compartment for even more storage. On the exterior, the bag has three smaller pockets, one of which is made with a fully-wipeable insulated material—perfect for stashing lunch. The backpack also has two drink sleeves on the sides.

For comfort, both the back and the straps are padded. But on the downside, our testers found the padding to be unnecessarily stiff. These features do, however, help take the weight off—especially when the bag is at capacity.

JanSport

Amazon

Jansport backpacks have been cool for as long as we can remember. The classic style comes in many colors and patterns, but even more importantly, it's a highly durable canvas option. In tests, we found the backpack could easily fit more than a couple of textbooks and a 15-inch laptop. We do wish the laptop compartment was padded for extra protection, but we liked that our tech gear had a dedicated home.

In addition to the laptop pouch, the bag has four exterior pockets of varying sizes: one that rivals the size of the main interior, one medium that’s equipped with a key clip and slots for pens or pencils, and two smaller ones for easy access to items like your phone or wallet. The bag also has a single drink sleeve on the exterior. The padded straps are very comfortable, especially when the bag is full, but we wish they were a little more flexible—they’re quite stiff.

North Face

Amazon

For something a little sportier, we liked The North Face’s Jester backpack. It’s longer than others we evaluated, which affords a little extra room inside, plus we appreciated the padded 16-inch laptop sleeve and the secure zip pockets and key clip. As a nice bonus, this easy-carry bag is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association.

Lululemon

Lululemon

Billed as a highly versatile option, this backpack is suitable for toting both textbooks and workout gear, so you’ll have everything you need for the day in one place. The recycled polyester is slippery and fully wipeable, so you won’t mind putting the sweaty stuff inside. Unfortunately, the backpack isn’t machine-washable—you have to spot-clean any trouble spots.

Our testers loved how lightweight the backpack is. You can hardly even feel it on your back when it’s empty. Still, the bag has plenty of organization, so you’ll always know where your things are. On the inside, there’s a roomy main compartment complete with two smaller pockets for essentials like your wallet or phone. There’s also a dedicated laptop compartment complete with padding to keep your tech safer. On the exterior, you’ll find a smaller pocket for the little things. The zipper even has a carabiner to attach any extras, like a larger water bottle. We also appreciate the addition of a luggage sleeve on the back, so you can use the bag as a travel tote.

UGRACE

Amazon

The vintage appeal of this commuter backpack first caught our attention, but it quickly became one of our top picks, thanks to its superior function. For starters, it’s made with a lightweight tear-resistant fabric and a polyester lining that’s easy to wipe clean. It’s equipped with all of the organization you could need, too. We liked that we could fit two or three textbooks and a laptop (in a dedicated padded sleeve) in the main compartment of the bag. We also appreciated this area is equipped with a small zippered pocket as well as a USB charger for your devices.

The exterior boasts both a medium-sized zippered pocket and a smaller one that’s perfect for pens and pencils. The bag also has two drink holders, one on each side of the backpack, though they’re definitely on the slim side. The padded straps help ensure you can carry everything this backpack can hold in comfort, and our testers liked that they weren’t as stiff as some others we evaluated.

Herschel

Amazon

Herschel’s XL is another classic choice that closely rivals the Jansport. The backpacks come in a wide range of colors and patterns, so there’s something for everyone. During testing, we appreciated the simplicity of the backpack. It may not be the roomiest we evaluated, but there’s plenty of space for a laptop, a handful of books, and lunch in the bag’s single interior compartment (it includes a dedicated laptop sleeve) and smaller exterior pocket. The backpack also has a drink sleeve on one side.

We liked that it’s made from lightweight yet heavy-duty cotton canvas that can withstand all kinds of scuffs and spills. It also has a solid back panel, so your bag doesn't sag when it's loaded to the brim. Like other backpacks we tested, we found the padded straps to be stiff.

Eastpak

Amazon

If you're looking for a durable backpack that you can use outside of school, opt for this Eastpak bag. It's made from a 60% nylon and 40% polyester blend that our testers said felt extra strong. It’s also very spacious without being so large or heavy that it feels cumbersome on your back. On the inside, you'll find a spacious compartment, a padded laptop sleeve, and a mesh zip pocket. We had no problem packing the bag full of books, and appreciated the thick padded straps—even if they were a bit too stiff.

On the downside, our evaluators really missed the addition of a drink sleeve. There’s no place for a water bottle on the inside or outside of this backpack.

Everlane

Everlane

The design of this backpack, which is made from 100% recycled polyester, separates it from the rest of the pack. Instead of the standard oval-like shape, this bag features more of a rectangular look and has a fold-over pocket closure on the top. It only comes in a few colors, but the look is undeniably cool and sophisticated. You can’t beat the water-resistant finish, either, since you don’t have to stress when you inevitably spill your coffee on it or get stuck in the rain.

The organizational components are there, too. Inside the main compartment, there are four dedicated storage areas: a laptop sleeve, a larger spot for books, a small pocket for keys and other essentials, and even a mesh drink sleeve to keep your beverage secure inside. The two exterior zippered pockets are ideal for things you want to reach in an instant—like a cell phone or wallet.

Fjällräven

Amazon

This Scandinavian bag is a timeless Amazon customer favorite, and after testing it for weeks on end, our editors understand why. Not only does it have classic appeal that will stand the test of time, it’s also super versatile. Carry it like a handbag via the top handles, or wear it on your back like a traditional backpack.

Our testers love how lightweight it is. At just about 11 ounces, you can hardly feel it on your back when it’s empty. This means you can more comfortably tote heavy textbooks even though the straps lack the same padding as other options we evaluated. There are, however, limited organizational pockets. The bag has just one roomy interior compartment, a smaller exterior pocket, and two drink sleeves. We particularly wished for a dedicated laptop sleeve to ensure tech stays safe in transit.

Overall, we found this to be a versatile backpack that can be used for school, work, or travel—especially since it’s water-resistant. We love that it’s available in over 30 colors to suit everyone’s unique personal style, too.

Dagne Dover

Nordstrom

This durable neoprene backpack is one of the more sleek and stylish options we evaluated, despite the fact that it’s on the smaller side. When we tried to use it as a daypack at an amusement park, we found it to be a bit too small for everything we needed. But if you’re using it for only the items you need for a few classes, you’ll find enough room for a couple of books, a 13-inch laptop, plus a few essentials like a drink and a small snack, as well as your wallet and phone.

The bag has a single interior compartment, but it’s separated into two areas: one for a laptop and another for notebooks and the like. We also appreciated the interior drink sleeve, since it keeps the water bottle from toppling over when you set the bag down. Overall, the neoprene fabric makes the backpack a bit heavier than others, even when empty, but we found the cushioning of the straps and back to be very comfortable.

Kreya

Kreya

If it’s a luxury look you’re after, that’s exactly what you’ll get from the Kreya Aurora. The sleek leather option is, undoubtedly, one of the prettiest we evaluated. But it’s not just easy on the eyes—the bag features a unique two-in-one design. Pull the straps up to carry it as a tote—great for shopping or a polished look during a summer internship—or pull them down to create backpack straps. One editor loved this design feature so much that she called it life-changing. “As an editor, I’m always hopping from the office to events and I love how easy it is to wear as a backpack on my way to the office and then I can easily turn it into a tote bag after work,” she said.

The interior isn’t as roomy as others and lacks dedicated storage. There’s a single compartment with a small zippered pocket for items like keys or a card case. On the upside, you can definitely fit one or two textbooks and a laptop. There is also a unique exterior cell phone pocket to keep your device within quick reach.

Calpak

Calpak

We really liked the unique rectangular shape of this faux leather backpack. It’s heavier than others we tested, but it’s both stylish and functional. There are two “main” compartments—one that zippers on the backside of the bag; another that zippers on the front. The one on the front is ideal for things like textbooks, notebooks, and pens, while the one in the back features a padded laptop sleeve and extra space for anything else you might want to bring with you for the day–like gym clothes. On the exterior, there’s a small zippered pocket for essentials like keys or your wallet and phone.

We appreciated extra design details other backpacks didn’t have, too. One of our favorites was the metal feet that allow you to place the bag down without it tipping or touching the floor. The luggage sleeve was a nice touch for frequent travelers, too.

Pottery Barn Teen

Pottery Barn Teen

For teens who want a pretty pattern, it’s hard to go wrong with Pottery Barn’s LoveShackFancy collab. The ultra-feminine blue-and-white print—flowers and bows, oh my—makes for a book bag that stands out in a crowd in the best of ways. But it’s not just a pretty little thing—this backpack features three separate compartments, plus a padded laptop sleeve and two water bottle pockets. We especially love that the smallest pocket contains dedicated pen holders and a key clip—both rarities in the backpacks we evaluated.

The canvas-like material appears to be highly durable, too. And even though you might worry about such light colors getting dirty, we found the material responds to spot cleaning very well. We also love the comfort of this backpack. Mesh on the straps and back panel allow for extra breathability, and the straps aren’t as stiff as some others we tested.

Check out some more great finds!

Himawari

Amazon

Designed from an eco-friendly waterproof canvas material, this backpack feels super soft yet sturdy enough to hold all your school essentials. It also features top handles that allow it to be held as a handbag, or you can slip the adjustable straps on at the back over your shoulders when carrying a heavier load.

Gootium

Amazon

This utilitarian rucksack is made of thick, durable canvas. It features a drawstring closure under the flap, dual side pockets, inner zippered compartments, and a front pocket to store items you need easy access to. Seen here in khaki, the bag also comes in other neutral shades.

Monsdle

Amazon

If you’ve got a lot to carry, your best bet is to go with a backpack that’s equipped with a lot of different compartments, like this pick. You’ll find a separate laptop compartment, three open pockets, a front compartment, and two elastic mesh side pockets.

SwissGear

Amazon

Featuring a simple design, this SwissGear is your classic backpack. It’s not necessarily the most stylish option, but it has a rugged look that will appeal to some. We like that it has multiple compartments for larger items, plus a front pocket complete with an organizer to keep your pens and pencils organized—not every option has this nice-to-have.

Tory Burch

Tory Burch

It’s expensive, but we thought this versatile backpack had a very cool and unique look. The design was inspired by traditional camping gear but features a stylish colorful twist. We liked that it comes with various supportive details, including padded back panels, padded shoulder straps, and a harness to balance weight.

Stoney Clover Lane

Stoney Clover Lane

Stoney Clover makes some of the cutest bags and accessories on the market—just look at this cheerful pink shade. It's available in several other colors and can be customized with letter patches for an extra element of fun and personalization. Because of its size, though, this isn’t the most ideal option for everyday use—you won’t fit larger items like textbooks or a laptop inside.

We filled each backpack with a variety of school supplies, such as laptops, notebooks, water bottles, books, and tech accessories. We also considered any cool features that could be beneficial for high school and college students. Additional pockets, back panels, USB ports, padding on straps, and double handles are all great assets for a functional backpack. The materials/fabric they're constructed from are also important since the backpack will most likely undergo plenty of wear and tear, including drops and drags.

You can expect to see plenty of trendy backpacks that double as tote bags, leather laptop backpacks, and bright, bold colors with floral patterns. We're also plenty of cute releases from popular brands like Jansport, North Face, Spraygrround, and Nike.

A few years ago, the #VSCOgirl trend made a major splash on TikTok. VSCO girls channeled a specific vibe, which included a love for pastel colors and Fjällräven Kånken backpacks. The name VSCO comes from the popular photo-editing app, and it seemed like all the TikTok girlies were carrying a Fjällräven Kånken backpack in candy-like shades similar to the app's photo filters.