It’s back to school time, and that means it’s a great idea to finally replace that tattered backpack you’ve been using for the past three years. You know the one. Backpacks are essential for carrying all of your books, binders, and electronic devices, while taking some of the strain off your back and shoulders.
Thankfully, there are plenty of options to choose from in a variety of different shapes, sizes, and styles. So, whether you’re looking for a simple book bag or something with near-endless pockets for storing all your items, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite backpacks and laptop bags to send you back to school in style.
TL:DR; These Are the Best Backpacks and Laptop Bags for Back to School
- Incase ICON Backpack
- JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack
- SwissGear ScanSmart Backpack
- Adidas Excel Backpack
- Incase Reform Backpack
- Matein Backpack
- Timbuk2 Proof Messenger
- Targus Classic Slim Briefcase
- NEWHEY Messenger Bag
- Amazon Basics Laptop Bag
Incase ICON Backpack
Incase is no stranger to tech-friendly backpacks as they are all designed with laptop and tablet storage and protection in mind. Incase’s ICON backpack offers three spacious compartments for all your gadgets and accessories — including a padded storage section for a 16-inch laptop — all wrapped in a sleek and simple design. It’s crafted from durable nylon to keep your belongings safe and features airflow channels to keep your back cool while wearing it throughout the day.
JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack
The reason JanSport has remained popular for so many years is because its backpacks are simple, reliable, and timeless. The JanSport SuperBreak sticks with the traditional two-pocket design, providing a large interior for books, a laptop, and more, plus a small, zippered pocket up front for pencils and other accessories. It’s lightweight design won’t add extra bulk to what you’re carrying and it features water-repellent fabric to keep your belongings dry. With over 30 different colors and designs to choose from, there’s an option for everyone.
SwissGear ScanSmart Backpack
Calling all techies: this backpack is perfect for all your electronic devices. It features a padded 17-inch laptop compartment, dedicated tablet sleeve, and a media pocket for storing your smartphone with a passthrough headphone jack for listening to music or podcasts. It’s also got plenty of internal pockets for storage, as well as zippered mesh pockets for storing cables and accessories. Despite everything it can hold, the ergonomic design and padded back panels make it extremely comfortable to wear.
Adidas Excel Backpack
For student athletes and those that generally lead an active life, the Adidas Excel backpack is a great choice for you. It features a lightweight design and three main pockets including a padded section to protect a 15.6-inch laptop or tablet. Four external pockets ensure plenty of space for all of your small items and accessories, too. It’s even got a water bottle pocket on each side to keep you hydrated all day, no matter where you’re at.
Incase Reform Backpack
This backpack is perfect for minimalists who appreciate good design. It’s got two zippered storage sections, including space for a 13-inch laptop. The bottom of the backpack features a compression molded cage with Tensaerlite to provide impact-absorbing protection for all of your devices inside. The durable nylon exterior easily stands up to wear and tear and keeps this backpack looking great year-round.
Matein Backpack
If you’re a packrat who likes to bring everything with them, this backpack is definitely for you. It features large interior storage spaces including a separate laptop compartment that also has space for a tablet, as well. It’s got built-in organization in the front pocket for pens, smartphones, keys, and more, as well as an anti-theft pocket on the back for your secure items. It even has an external USB port that allows you to keep your smartphone or other devices charged up throughout the day. Awesome.
Timbuk2 Proof Messenger
Made from rugged waxed canvas and genuine leather trims, this messenger bag is stylish and extremely functional. It includes a large adjustable shoulder strap or leather handle for carrying as well as a removable crossbody strap for added stability. Inside, it features plenty of storage including space for a 13-inch laptop as well as an organizer for pens and accessories. The two large external pockets allow you to quickly get to items you need without opening up the main zippered section.
Targus Classic Slim Briefcase
Featuring a slim and minimalist design, this briefcase is perfect for carrying the essentials. It’s got a large zippered compartment that can hold a 16-inch laptop and features foam padding to keep it protected while on the go. It also includes a smaller exterior pocket for holding your smartphone, pens, notebooks, and more. The adjustable shoulder strap allows you to wear the bag over your shoulder or across your body, or you can simply carry it by the integrated handle.
NEWHEY Messenger Bag
This messenger bag features a retro look and is perfect for carrying your laptop, notebooks, and more. It’s made from durable leather and water-resistant waxed canvas to keep everything inside protected from rain or spills. With nine total pockets, there’s plenty of space for all of your belongings including a padded laptop sleeve for up to a 15.6-inch laptop. The adjustable shoulder strap is removable and the external flap is secured by magnets, making it easy to access the outer pockets.
Amazon Basics Laptop Bag
For those looking for a simple and reliable laptop bag without all the frills, Amazon has you covered with this one. Despite its slim design, it can accommodate a 15.6-inch laptop in the padded interior compartment and also has two external zippered sections for smaller devices and accessories. It includes a padded shoulder strap that can easily be removed to reduce extra bulk and the water-resistant exterior ensures your devices and belongings stay dry no matter what the weather throws at you.