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Choosing the Best Backpack: Style Meets Functionality
As the new school year approaches, finding the right backpack is a top priority. Whether you’re in high school or university, a reliable and stylish backpack is essential for carrying your books, electronics, and other essentials while reflecting your personal style. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 10 backpacks for students, focusing on a blend of functionality, durability, and fashion. Whether you need something spacious and ergonomic or sleek and minimalist, this guide will help you find the perfect backpack for your academic journey and daily activities. Let’s dive in and discover the best backpacks for students that will be your go-to companion throughout the 2024 school year.
The North Face
Borealis Luxe Backpack
Features
- Capacity: 27L
- 16″ padded laptop sleeve
- Women-Specific FlexVent™ Suspension System with padded straps and breathable back panel
- Stand-up design with water-resistant fabric
- Bungee cords for attaching extra gear
- Chest strap and removable waist belt
- 360-degree reflectivity
Why We Love It
The North Face Borealis Luxe Backpack is a must-have for anyone balancing campus life and outdoor adventures. Not only does it have a roomy 28-litre capacity, but it also easily fits everything you need, from textbooks to trail gear, making it a versatile pick for any student on the go. The water-resistant fabric ensures your belongings stay dry, while the dedicated laptop compartment keeps your tech safe and secure. And if that’s not enough, the handy bungee cords are perfect for extra gear, and the adjustable, padded shoulder straps provide all-day comfort, whether you’re heading to class or exploring the great outdoors. So, if you’re looking for a backpack that ticks all the boxes—style, functionality, and comfort—the Borealis Luxe is one of the best backpacks for students in 2024.
RAINS
MSN Bag Mini Backpack
Features
- Capacity: 12L
- Lightweight, easy to carry
- Waterproof
- Flap with carabiner closure and snap compressions
Why We Love It
If you’re looking for an urban aesthetic, the RAINS MSN Bag Mini Backpack offers a contemporary take on the classic school bag. Its chic, neo-Scandinavian design makes it a standout accessory, while its compact size is perfect for carrying just the essentials without any bulk. Plus, even though it’s smaller, this backpack doesn’t compromise on durability. Made from waterproof materials, it keeps your belongings dry and protected, so it’s your go-to on rainy days. To sum up, if you’re looking for a chic yet practical option, you should definitely consider the MSN Bag Mini Backpack.
Fjallraven
Skule 28 Backpack
Features
- Capacity: 28L
- Padded 15″ laptop sleeve
- Padded shoulder straps and supportive, air mesh back panel
- Adjustable chest and hip straps for extra support
- Handy top pocket for quick grabs
- Made from eco-friendly materials
Why We Love It
The Fjällräven Skule 28 Backpack is your ideal companion for school and beyond, blending functionality with style effortlessly. Whether you’re heading to class or setting out on a spontaneous weekend trip, this backpack has you covered. In fact, you’ll have plenty of room for your laptop, books, and other school essentials with its generous 28-litre capacity. What’s more, it features adjustable chest and hip straps for extra support, a convenient top pocket for easy access, and a breathable back panel to keep you comfortable throughout the day. If you’re looking for a versatile backpack that excels in both form and function, the Fjällräven Skule 28 is a top choice.
Patagonia
Refugio Day Pack 26L
Features
- Capacity: 26L
- 15″ padded laptop sleeve
- Water-repellent
- Padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel
- Made from 100% recycled materials
Why We Love It
The Patagonia Refugio Day Pack 26L is your go-to eco-friendly companion for both school and outdoor adventures. Not only is it lightweight and incredibly comfortable, but it’s also ideal for long days out. What’s more, this pack offers a 26-litre capacity, a convenient laptop sleeve, spacious compartments, and stretchy water bottle pockets. Additionally, it’s crafted from recycled materials, making it a fantastic choice for environmentally conscious explorers.
Arc’teryx
Granville 16 Backpack
Features
- Capacity: 16L
- Stretch mesh laptop sleeve
- Weather-resistant, ripstop fabric
- Ventilated padded shoulder straps and breathable pack panel
- Technical outdoor functionality
Why We Love It
Compact yet mighty, the Arc’teryx Granville 16 Backpack is an ideal choice for those who prefer to pack only the essentials. Not only does its sleek design turn heads, but its exceptional weather resistance also makes it perfect for urban adventurers. As well as its 16-litre capacity and technical outdoor functionality, keeping things simple, yet effective. It has a streamlined harness system and water-resistant zippers, so you can trust your gear will stay secure and dry. Whether you’re navigating the city or braving the elements, the Granville 16 Backpack combines style and functionality to meet your needs.
Herschel Supply
Classic™ XL Backpack
Features
- Capacity: 30L
- 16″ floating laptop sleeve
- Padded shoulder straps
- Made from 100% recycled materials
Why We Love It
A true classic, the Herschel Supply Classic XL Backpack delivers both simplicity and ample space for all your school essentials. With a spacious 30-litre capacity, this backpack easily fits textbooks, a laptop, and so much more. And of course, this classic design features a dedicated laptop sleeve and handy side pockets for your trusty tumbler and emotional-support water bottle. Plus, the durable polyester fabric is tough enough to handle daily wear and tear, so it’ll keep up with your busy life. If you’re looking for a reliable and stylish backpack that covers all your needs, the Classic XL is a top choice for both function and flair.
Herschel Supply
Settlement Backpack
Features
- Capacity: 23L
- 16″ padded floating laptop sleeve
- Padded shoulder straps and back panel
- Front pocket with a key clip
- Made from 100% recycled materials
Why We Love It
If you’re all about simplicity with a touch of style, the Herschel Settlement Backpack is a great pick. When it comes to finding the ideal size, some might say this backpack hits the sweet spot with its 23-litre capacity, making it ideal for carrying daily essentials without unnecessary bulk. To put it in detail, it has a spacious main compartment, a handy front pocket with a key clip, and a media pocket that helps keep things organized. And the best part – it’s made from durable nylon fabric, so it’s built to last through all your adventures. What’s more, it’s all made from durable nylon fabric, so you know it’s built to last. Whether you’re heading to class or out on an adventure, the Herschel Settlement Backpack combines practicality with sleek design, making it a versatile and reliable option.
The North Face
Isabella 3.0 Backpack
Features
- Capacity: 20L
- Comfort: Lightweight with contoured shoulder straps and padded back panel
- Material: Weather-resistant
- Organization: Padded 16″ laptop sleeve and multiple compartments
Why We Love It
With its sleek design and practical features, The North Face Isabella 3.0 Backpack is a must-have for minimalists on the go. Its women-specific fit ensures comfort throughout the day, whether you’re exploring city streets or country trails. And of course, with a 20-litre capacity, it includes a padded laptop sleeve, smart organizational pockets, and weather-resistant materials to handle any adventure. So, if you’re looking for a stylish yet functional backpack that meets your daily and travel needs, the Isabella 3.0 is an excellent choice.
Cotopaxi
Vaya 18L Backpack
Features
- Capacity: 18L
- Comfort: Ergonomic shoulder straps and beathable padded back panel
- Material: Lightweight, durable
- Organization: Padded 15″ laptop sleeve, multiple compartments, and fleece-lined pocket for small items
- Sustainability: Made with durable recycled fabrics
Why We Love It
If you love vibrant colours and unique designs, the Cotopaxi Vaya 18L Backpack is exactly what you need. Not only is this backpack made from repurposed materials, blending sustainability with style, but it also features a lightweight design and multiple compartments, making it practical for both school use and outdoor adventures. So, if you’re searching for a functional yet eye-catching backpack that stands out from the crowd, the Vaya 18L is the one for you.
Fjallraven
Kanken Backpack
Features
- Capacity: 16L
- Water-resistant and quick-drying
- Removable back panel doubles as a seat pad
- Dual top handles
Why We Love It
When searching for the best backpacks for students, the Fjällräven Kanken Backpack truly stands out for its blend of style and practicality. It’s a favourite among students year after year, and it’s easy to see why. With its 16-litre capacity, it’s just the right size for school gear and everyday commutes. Not to mention, this classic backpack features durable, water-resistant Vinylon F material and a roomy main compartment. To top it off, the removable back panel conveniently doubles as a seat pad, adding even more functionality to this beloved choice. Whether you’re heading to class or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Kanken is one of the best backpacks for students.
Choosing the best backpack is crucial for students. Whether you’re focused on style, functionality, or sustainability, there’s a backpack on this list that’s perfect for you. By investing in a quality backpack, you’ll not only ensure comfort and practicality, but also gain a reliable companion that supports you throughout every school day and beyond. So, explore more of our top backpacks for students to find the perfect match for your needs and make the most of your school year.
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