Backpacks for college students is the topic of today’s post.
One of the most crucial tools for college students is a reliable, durable, and well-designed backpack. After all, a backpack isn’t just about carrying books; it’s a mobile command center for a student’s life.
As a former classroom teacher with over a decade of experience and a current educator, I understand the importance of choosing the right backpack for a college student. Drawing on my own experience as EdTech blogger, and the extensive research I did in this regard in which I combed through piles of customer reviews assessing user reviews and ratings, I bring you a collection of what I believe are some of the best backpacks for college students.
My recommendations are not based merely on personal opinion but on a comprehensive assessment of numerous factors such as durability, storage capacity, comfort, design, and value for money.
So, whether you’re a teacher, educator, parent, or student, I hope that this guide will help you make an informed decision in your quest for the perfect college backpack. Let’s dive right in!
For more back to school resources, make sure to check out our Back to School section.
Our pick
Best Backpacks for College Students
Here are our top picks for backpacks for college students:
1 Matien Backpack
This is definitely our favourite in this list. I have had Maitien backpack for many years and I just love it. Matien backpack offers comprehensive features together with a robust design that takes into account the needs of today’s college students. This backpack serves as a reliable companion, helping keep your essentials secure, while offering a USB charging port for those on-the-go.
Features
- Dimensions: 12 x 18 x 7.8 inches; Total capacity: 30 liters
- Laptop compartment: Fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop, with extra space for smaller devices
- A spacious compartment for daily necessities, front compartment with multiple pockets for optimal organization
- Water-resistant and durable polyester fabric with metal zippers ensures long-lasting usage
- Built-in USB charger for convenience (requires external power source)
- Security: Hidden anti-theft pocket for added security and a luggage strap for easier carrying during travel
Cons
- Self-charging: The backpack does not have self-charging capabilities and requires an external power source for the USB charging function
- Design: Might be considered basic or less stylish by some users looking for fashionable options
2. SwissGear 1900 Backpack
SwissGear 1900 Backpack is the second best option in my list of the best backpacks for college students. SwissGear offers some amazing features and a plethora of storage space.
The SwissGear 1900 backpack is ideal for college students and can facilitate their movements from/to campus. It includes a designated laptop compartment designed for swift airport security checks.
Features
- Dimensions: 9 x 19 x 14 inches; Total capacity: 31 liters
- Laptop and Tablet Storage: Enhanced laptop compartment with zippered access for a 17-inch laptop, and a padded TabletSafe pocket
- Organization: Main compartment with an accordion file holder, and a RFID-protected organizer compartment with a removable key/fob clip and multiple divider pockets
- Comfort: Ergonomically contoured, padded shoulder straps, adjustable compression straps, airflow back padding, and a reinforced, molded top handle
Cons
- Weight: At 3.3 pounds, it might be considered heavy when compared to other backpacks
3. Abshoo Classical Basic Backpack
Next in our list of the best back to school backpacks for college students is Abshoo Classical Basic backpack. This is a lightweight option designed for daily use.
The Abshoo Classical Backpack offers practicality for carrying essentials like a tablet or laptop and snacks while remaining fashionable and cool. Its lightweight water-resistant polyester material makes it a reliable choice for everyday use.
Features
- Dimensions: 12.2″ L x 5.3″ D x 16.5″ H
- Material: Made of lightweight, high-quality, water-resistant polyester
- Storage: Spacious interior, perfect for carrying a tablet/laptop and snacks
- Design: Stylish and cool design suitable for students going to school and college
- Warranty: Comes with a 12-month warranty for quality assurance
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty use due to its lightweight material
- Might lack advanced organization options, depending on user needs
4. VASCHY Unisex Classic Backpack
The VASCHY Unisex Classic backpack is another powerful backpack for college students. With its classic design and water-resistant, durable polyester material, college students will find it highly functional.
The VASCHY Backpack boasts a vintage design and features a spacious main compartment. It’s suitable for students who carry heavy textbooks and notebooks.
Features
- Dimensions: 18.5″ x 12.9″ x 5.5″ (HxLxW); Capacity: 23 Liters
- Material: Water-resistant, durable polyester
- Storage: Main compartment with double-zipper closure, one exterior zipper pocket, water-bottle pockets on both sides, padded Ipad/Laptop pocket (fits up to 15-inch laptop), and four interior zipper pockets
- Comfort: Adjustable padded reinforced strap and anti-theft back pocket for secure and comfortable use
- Design: Classic silhouette with a diamond shape in front and a padded suede-like bottom
Cons
- Might be considered heavy or bulky for some users, especially younger students.
5. ProEtrade Backpack
The ProEtrade Backpack integrates durability, storage capacity, and safety and goes a step further to include an ergonomic design for comfort.
The ProEtrade Backpack is made from high-quality anti-scratch fabric with a sturdy zipper design. Its multi-compartment layout ensures that your belongings are organized, and the unique night light reflective design adds an element of safety when used in dark areas.
Features
- Dimensions: 19″H x 12.5″W x 8″D; Lightweight: 1.5 lb
- Material: High-quality anti-scratch fabric with durable zipper design
- Storage: Two main compartments, a laptop compartment pocket, two front zipped pockets, two side water bottle pockets, and one inner pocket for keys or small accessories
- Safety: Features a night light reflective design on the front and back for added safety in the dark
- Comfort: Ergonomic S-curved shoulder straps with breathable mesh and multi-layer sponge padding on the back panel
Cons
- The material might not be the most luxurious-looking for those seeking a more premium appearance
- Limited color and design options compared to other brands.
6. JanSport Backpack
JanSport is another great backpack for college students. I currently have a pair that I use during my travels. JanSport is a spacious, comfortable, and durable backpack that comes in a variety of colors and designs.
The JanSport Backpack offers a large carrying capacity with two main compartments and a dedicated 15-inch padded laptop sleeve. Its high-quality construction, combined with comfort-enhancing features, makes it an excellent choice for students who need to carry many essentials.
Features
- Dimensions: 17.5 x 15 x 3 inches; Capacity: 34 Liters
- Material: Made with durable 100% Polyester
- Storage: Two large main compartments, a dedicated 15-inch padded laptop sleeve, a side water bottle pocket, a front utility pocket, a pleated front stash pocket, and a zippered front stash pocket
- Comfort: Ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps and a fully padded back panel
- Design: Available in over 35 colors, prints, and patterns
Cons
- While the large size offers great storage, it might be bulky for some users, especially younger students
