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16 Best Backpacks for College of 2023

Best Overall
Herschel Pop Quiz
4.5/5
Best Versatile
Travel Laptop,TSA
4.5/5
Best Floral
Vera Bradley Signature
4/5

Choosing the right backpack can be a difficult task for students, especially in high school or college. It is not easy to pick the best backpack that will suit your needs. With so many options available today, it can be overwhelming and confusing to choose one. Which type of bag should you get? What features do you need?  Here’s what you need to know about the best backpacks for college.

Our Top Backpacks for College Picks

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1. Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack

Pop Quiz Supply Co. is an independent designer, distributor, and manufacturer of luxury backpacks, bags, and accessories. One of their best-sellers we evaluated is the Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack which has everything you need for college. This backpack is spacious, durable, and lightweight.

It offers enough compartments to keep your must-have organized. This bag comes equipped with a padded laptop sleeve, fleece-lined sunglasses, and a few other compartments you can use to store your go-tos. The base of this bag is also lined with a water-resistant faux leather panel that keeps your items safe from spills and puddles.

The Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack compared to the Moleskine Metro Backpack are both stylish backpacks that offer ample storage space and are ideal for everyday use. However, the Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack is more focused on style and is available in a wide range of colors and designs, whereas the Moleskine Metro Backpack is more focused on functionality and features a number of compartments and pockets for storing and organizing your belongings

2. Moleskine Metro Backpack

This backpack we tested out is a multi-purpose bag you can use to store all your college essentials. It has several compartments where you can store your laptop, phone, charger, and even your notebooks. It features padded straps that add extra comfort when carrying the pack for hours.

If you’re looking for a sleek, compact backpack that can help you keep your laptop safe from the elements, then this is the right choice. This bag is crafted from water-repellent nylon, and it boasts a protective polyurethane base that keeps your electronics safe from spills and puddles.

The Moleskine Metro Backpack and the Travel Laptop Backpack, TSA are both great options for those who need a backpack that is both functional and stylish. The Moleskine Metro Backpack is ideal for those who need to carry a lot of items, while the Travel Laptop Backpack, TSA is perfect for those who need to travel with their laptop and other electronics.

3. Travel Laptop Backpack,TSA

For minimalist college students, this backpack from MATEIN is a good choice we tried out. This pack doesn’t have traditional compartments or zippers. Instead, it features a series of pouches and slots that allow you to store your stuff in the most efficient way possible.

Plus, its design allows you to store laptops, notebooks, and other school supplies. It has an exterior side pocket for your water bottle, making it safer for your inside belongings. You can also keep it for the longest time, thanks to its water-resistant cotton twill exterior.

Comparing the Travel Laptop Backpack,TSA and the North Face Borealis Backpack, both versatile backpacks that are ideal for travel and outdoor activities. The Travel Laptop Backpack, TSA features a number of compartments and pockets for storing and organizing your belongings, while the North Face Borealis Backpack is designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind and features a comfortable suspension system for carrying heavy loads.

4. The North Face Borealis Backpack

One of the best backpacks for college we tested is this one from The North Face. It has 28 liters of storage space, perfect for carrying your books and notebooks on campus. Additionally, it features a fleece-lined pocket that allows you to keep sunglasses protected when you’re on the go.

If you need a whole lot of space, the Borealis backpack is a perfect choice. Upfront, it has an elastic bungee system. This bag is also comfortable, and there’s also a version that can fit women’s bodies. It comes in various colors, fitting everyone’s preferences.

The North Face Borealis Backpack and the Mokuyobi Flyer Pack Backpack are both designed for outdoor enthusiasts, but with different focuses. The North Face Borealis Backpack offers a larger storage capacity and features a comfortable suspension system, making it ideal for longer outdoor adventures. The Mokuyobi Flyer Pack Backpack, on the other hand, is more compact and lightweight, making it perfect for day trips or shorter hikes.

5. Mokuyobi Flyer Pack Backpack

This is one of the best backpacks for college students we tried and tested because it’s got a huge amount of space. If you want to carry your laptop, tablet, or iPad with you, there are two pockets in the front that can fit most laptops with screen sizes up to 15 inches. You’ll also find several exterior pockets with zipper closures.

There is an open space that’s perfect for carrying several books. If you’re worried about running out of time, this is for you. It has some space for extra clothes, some make-up or perfume, and a few items.

Comparing the Mokuyobi Flyer Pack Backpack and the Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack, both stylish backpacks that are ideal for everyday use. However, the Mokuyobi Flyer Pack Backpack offers a more unique and playful design, with bright colors and bold patterns, while the Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack is more classic and versatile, with a focus on simplicity and functionality.

6. Herschel Heritage Classic Backpack

If you’re looking for a stylish option and one of the best backpacks for college, this is your answer. Herschel is a brand that’s known for its affordable and trendy bags and accessories. It has several designs to choose from, so you’ll surely find one that complements your style.

 

This backpack has a bit more than enough space for most students with 19 x 13.5 x 8 inches. If you also like a light, classy backpack, this may be the best backpack for you. It has a large compartment with a sleeve that can hold a 15-inch laptop and a small media pocket with a headphone port.

The classic black color with a saddle brown faux leather bottom is one of the 23 designs available. It has an air mesh back padding and cushioned straps that keep you comfortable across the campus.

7. Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

This is a cool option and one of the best backpacks for college for students who are always on the go. It has one main compartment with dividers to provide easier organizing. The exterior also features two front zippered pockets, one of which is padded to protect your laptop or tablet.

 

There are three colors available, including dark pink camo, midnight camouflage, and navy blue. For comfort and better back support, the designers made the straps adjustable. After evaluation, it also has the signature feature of Dagne Dover’s backpacks and bags, which is the key leash.

The superior material is made of premium neoprene, making it water-resistant, hand-washable, and one of the most durable backpacks on the market.

8. Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port

This is great for any college student. After testing, it can fit most laptops up to 15 inches with its slim design, making it perfect for many carrying cases during the day. With two front pockets, one of them with a built-in USB port, this backpack will make it easier for you to access your phone or tablet while on the go.

 

This backpack has a roomy main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve and an internal organization panel. There is also a front pocket for your accessories, such as pens, calculators, tablets, phones, and more. This backpack also boasts spacious main compartments, two water bottle pockets, and two compact pockets.

9. Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack

Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack is a highly practical and stylish backpack. If you’re looking for a high-quality, durable backpack that does not look like a typical boring one, this should be your choice. In addition to its durability, the Fjallraven Kanken is also waterproof and highly functional.

 

This is one of the best backpacks for college because it comes with a number of pockets and compartments inside and out, which means you can fit everything you need in the backpack, including assorted snacks for your college days. If you’re looking for something trendy but functional, this might be the best choice for you.

The Fjallraven Kanken comes in 17 colors inspired by nature, including acorn forest green and autumn leaf. The ergonomically designed padded shoulder straps also make a comfortable journey between classes.

10. Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack

This is another great choice and one of the best backpacks for college we tried out. It’s designed to protect all your 15-inch laptops and tablets. With careful details like the Napoleon pocket that makes it easy to quickly access important items, rugged ballistic zips, and a scratch-resistant lining, this bag is just an example of what you can expect from Timbuk2 products.

 

If you’re going to school in a rainy city, this bag should be one of your options. It’s made out of canvas fabric and waterproof material, enabling it to keep your laptop dry. It also has a laptop compartment and a zip pocket that can hold your phone, wallet, and other small, significant items.

It has multiple storage spaces for pen holders, water bottles, and other school supplies on the inside. Apart from the laptop compartment, the main compartment can carry books, extra jackets, and other essentials. It has incognito back zip access and a secure pocket for valuable items. It also has comfortable straps which are adjustable and come with a sternum strap suitable for travelling.

11. Vera Bradley Signature Cotton Campus Backpack

Vera Bradley is a globally recognized brand with an extensive selection of luggage and backpacks. This backpack comes in 13 different designs, giving you a wide range of options to choose from depending on your style preferences.

 

The bag we evaluated has double-carrying options, a short handle, and adjustable shoulder straps. It has a front pocket with a flap and an additional zipped pocket for your valuables. It also has three pen holders. In addition, it has no natural wool fiber, making it perfect for animal lovers.

12. JanSport Right Pack

The Right pack features the signature suede leather bottom, padded laptop sleeve, two front pockets, and a side water bottle pocket. This is one of the best backpacks for college is also made of durable Cordura fabric and comes with an organizer. The company is also committed to providing durable and reliable products offering you a lifetime guarantee.

 

If the bag breaks down, you can send it back, and the company will fix or replace it. Additionally, there are many colors and designs you can choose from. For example, you can display your personality in bright, floral, and evergreen tones.

13. Lululemon City Adventurer Backpack

This college student backpack we tested is for you if you’re a sports enthusiast and want academic success and a fit body. It has enough room for your laptop and comes with an expandable pocket that could hold your gym clothes. It has a water-repellent fabric and comes in different colors.

 

The minimalist design of this college backpack makes it fit well in both class and at the gym. If you want to save time and money, this is the backpack for you.

14. Kenneth Cole Reaction Women's Chelsea Backpackcccc

If you’re looking for a feminine backpack with enough for all your school essentials, grab this Kenneth Cole Reaction backpack. It has enough room for your laptop and all the other things you need during class, plus it comes with an extra compartment where you can keep your sunglasses safe. It also has interior pockets where you can place your pens, phone and tablet.

15. Herschel Dawson Backpack

Hershel backpacks are very popular. However, this one we tested differs from other backpacks belonging to the same brand through its separate front pockets.

The pocket has a drawstring closure with foam padding for extra protection. Plus, the main compartment has a capacity of 20.5 liters and can hold laptops and notebooks effortlessly.

How to Choose The Best Backpacks for College

As you choose between the tried and tested best backpacks for college, here’s what you need to take into consideration

Comfort

If you’ll be carrying a laptop or hefty textbooks, look for a backpack with padded straps and back panels for maximum comfort.

Durability

Top-notch, daily-wear-and-tear-resistant fabrics, including abrasion-resistant nylon or polyester, should be used to create an excellent college backpack.

Size

Your backpack should be the right size for your needs, with enough room to carry everything you need without being overly large or heavy.

Storage Capacity

To keep your possessions safe and help you stay organized, look for a bag with many of compartments and pockets.

Style

Your bag is an expression of your unique taste and personality, so pick a style that suits you.

Price

Since attending college can be expensive, find a bag that meets your needs and your budget.

Extra Features

If you intend to commute to school, take into account extra features like water resistance, lockable zippers, or reflective accents for safety.

Just like our guide on the best carry-on luggage for frequent travelers.

Backpack Model Comfort Durability Size Storage Capacity Style Price Additional Features
Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack 3.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 4/5 3.5/5 3.5/5
Moleskine Metro Backpack 4/5 4/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 4.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5
Travel Laptop Backpack, TSA 4.5/5 4.5/5 4/5 4.5/5 3.5/5 4/5 4/5
The North Face Borealis Backpack 4/5 4.5/5 4/5 4.5/5 4/5 4/5 4/5
Mokuyobi Flyer Pack Backpack 4/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 3/5 4.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5
Herschel Heritage Classic Backpack 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5 3.5/5 3.5/5
Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack 4.5/5 4.5/5 4/5 4.5/5 4/5 4.5/5 4/5
Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port 3.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 4/5 3.5/5 4/5
Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack 3.5/5 4/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 4.5/5 4/5 3.5/5
Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 4/5 4.5/5 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5
Vera Bradley Signature Cotton Campus Backpack 3.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 4.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5
JanSport Right Pack 3.5/5 4/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 4/5 3.5/5 3.5/5
Lululemon City Adventurer Backpack 4/5 4/5 4/5 4.5/5 4/5 4/5 4.5/5
Kenneth Cole Reaction Women’s Chelsea Backpack 3.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 3.5/5 4.5/5 3.5/5 4/5
Herschel Dawson Backpack 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5

FAQs on Best Backpacks for College

By the total capacity. It should be spacious enough to carry all your books, laptops, computer accessories, and toiletries.

By its fabric and construction. The best backpacks for college are made of robust materials like leather and canvas to ensure long-lasting durability.

Final Thought on Best Backpacks for College of 2021

Being a student is already hard enough. Try to make it simple by choosing the right backpack. Remember that a good backpack shouldn’t only have trendy looks and enough space for your things. It will also contribute to your health, and a low-quality backpack can deform your spine and put you in tremendous pain.

Why Trust Kitchen Infinity?

Our writers and reviewers thoroughly research every aspect of kitchen appliances or home improvement products so you can make a well-informed decision when investing in these products. We evaluate top quality products from several brands within budget friendly price ranges and contrast consumer reviews, surveys, satisfaction forms, brand performance, and annual appliance rankings. We go to great lengths to ensure that your next buy is worth every penny!

Dino Paccino

Dino Paccino

Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.

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