Discover the 21 Best Backpack Brands in the USA for School [2024] 🎒

Are you on the hunt for the ultimate backpack to conquer your school year? Well, you’ve landed in the right spot! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unveil the 21 best backpack brands in the USA for school that not only prioritize style but also functionality and comfort. From high school to college, we’ve got you covered with options that cater to every need and preference.

Picture this: You’re rushing to class, textbooks in one hand, and your trusty backpack in the other, effortlessly carrying everything you need. But wait—did you know that a well-chosen backpack can actually reduce back pain and improve your posture? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the right backpack should not exceed 10% of a student’s body weight. So, let’s dive into our top picks and discover how the right backpack can make your school life not just easier, but also more stylish!

Key Takeaways

• Explore 21 top backpack brands that excel in durability, comfort, and style, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your school needs.
• Consider essential features like ergonomic designs, ample storage, and tech-friendly compartments to enhance your daily experience.
• Stay informed about the evolution of backpacks and the latest trends to make a savvy purchase.
• 👉 Shop your favorites: Check out our recommendations for The North Face, JanSport, and FjallRaven to find the perfect backpack for your school journey!

Ready to take your backpack game to the next level? Let’s get started!

---

Table of Contents

1. Quick Tips and Facts
2. The Evolution of Backpacks: A Journey Through Time
3. Top Features to Look for in School Backpacks
4. Our Favorite Backpacks for High School Students
5. Our Favorite Backpacks for College Students
6. Our Favorite Tech-Friendly Backpacks
7. Our Favorite Large Capacity Backpacks
8. Our Favorite Compact Backpacks for Everyday Use
9. How Much Should a Backpack Weigh for School?
10. Best Backpacks for High School: Our Top Picks
11. Best Backpacks for College: Our Top Recommendations
12. Best Tech Backpacks: Gear Up for the Digital Age
13. Best Large Backpacks: For the Overachievers
14. Best Small Backpacks: Perfect for Minimalists
15. Other Notable Backpacks for Students: Hidden Gems
16. Our Testing Process: How We Choose the Best
17. Meet Our Experts: The Backpack Gurus
18. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Backpack for School
19. Who We Are: Your Backpack Enthusiasts
20. Conclusion: The Final Word on School Backpacks
21. Recommended Links: Further Reading
22. FAQ: Your Backpack Questions Answered
23. Reference Links: Sources We Trust

---

Quick Tips and Facts

📚 When it comes to choosing the perfect backpack for school, there are several factors to consider. Here are some quick tips and facts to keep in mind:

• Backpack weight: A backpack should weigh no more than 10% of a student’s body weight. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics
• Backpack size: A backpack should sit 2 inches below the shoulders and hang no more than 4 inches below the hips. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics
• Ergonomic design: Look for backpacks with wide, adjustable, padded straps and a breathable back panel for comfort and support. Source: Backpack Brands
• Compartments and pockets: Strategically placed compartments and pockets can help organize and position items effectively. Source: Backpack Brands
• Quality materials: Look for backpacks made from durable, water-repellent materials that can withstand daily use. Source: Backpack Brands

The Evolution of Backpacks: A Journey Through Time

Backpacks have come a long way since their humble beginnings as simple cloth bags. Over the years, they have evolved to become an essential part of our daily lives, particularly for students. Let’s take a look at the evolution of backpacks:

• Early beginnings: The first backpacks were made from cloth and used by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks. Source: Backpack Brands
• Military influence: During World War I and II, backpacks were used by soldiers to carry their gear. This led to the development of more durable and functional backpacks. Source: Backpack Brands
• Outdoor enthusiasts: In the 1960s and 1970s, backpacks became popular among outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers and campers. This led to the development of more specialized backpacks with features such as water-resistant materials and multiple compartments. Source: Backpack Brands
• Modern backpacks: Today, backpacks come in a wide range of styles, materials, and features. From simple, minimalist designs to complex, high-tech backpacks with features such as USB charging ports and RFID-blocking pockets. Source: Backpack Brands

Top Features to Look for in School Backpacks

When it comes to choosing a backpack for school, there are several features to look for. Here are some of the top features to consider:

• Comfort: Look for backpacks with wide, adjustable, padded straps and a breathable back panel for comfort and support. Source: Backpack Brands
• Compartments and pockets: Strategically placed compartments and pockets can help organize and position items effectively. Source: Backpack Brands
• Quality materials: Look for backpacks made from durable, water-repellent materials that can withstand daily use. Source: Backpack Brands
• Ergonomic design: Look for backpacks with ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly and provide support for the back and shoulders. Source: Backpack Brands
• Technology integration: Consider backpacks with features such as USB charging ports, RFID-blocking pockets, and laptop sleeves for added convenience and protection. Source: Backpack Brands

Our Favorite Backpacks for High School Students

Here are some of our favorite backpacks for high school students:

• The North Face Borealis Backpack: A durable, water-repellent backpack with multiple compartments and pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• JanSport Cool Student Backpack: A classic backpack with a spacious main compartment and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Lululemon Triple-Zip Backpack: A comfortable, water-repellent backpack with a top-loading design and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Our Favorite Backpacks for College Students

Here are some of our favorite backpacks for college students:

• The North Face Router Backpack: A durable, water-repellent backpack with multiple compartments and pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Nordace Aerial Infinity Backpack: A stylish, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• FjallRaven Skule 28: A lightweight, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Our Favorite Tech-Friendly Backpacks

Here are some of our favorite tech-friendly backpacks:

• L.L. Bean Comfort Carry Laptop Backpack: A comfortable, water-repellent backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack: A stylish, water-repellent backpack with a dedicated tablet compartment and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Swissgear 3760 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack: A durable, water-repellent backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Our Favorite Large Backpacks

Here are some of our favorite large backpacks:

• Herschel Little America Backpack: A spacious, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Columbia Zigzag 30L Backpack: A lightweight, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Our Favorite Compact Backpacks

Here are some of our favorite compact backpacks:

• Herschel Supply Settlement Backpack: A compact, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack: A compact, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

How Much Should a Backpack Weigh for School?

The weight of a backpack for school depends on several factors, including the size of the backpack, the materials used, and the amount of gear being carried. Here are some general guidelines for backpack weight:

• High school students: 10-15 pounds (4.5-6.8 kg)
• College students: 15-20 pounds (6.8-9 kg)

Best Backpacks for High School

Here are some of the best backpacks for high school students:

• The North Face Borealis Backpack: A durable, water-repellent backpack with multiple compartments and pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• JanSport Cool Student Backpack: A classic backpack with a spacious main compartment and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Lululemon Triple-Zip Backpack: A comfortable, water-repellent backpack with a top-loading design and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Best Backpacks for College

Here are some of the best backpacks for college students:

• The North Face Router Backpack: A durable, water-repellent backpack with multiple compartments and pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Nordace Aerial Infinity Backpack: A stylish, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• FjallRaven Skule 28: A lightweight, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Best Tech Backpacks

Here are some of the best tech backpacks:

• L.L. Bean Comfort Carry Laptop Backpack: A comfortable, water-repellent backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack: A stylish, water-repellent backpack with a dedicated tablet compartment and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Swissgear 3760 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack: A durable, water-repellent backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve and multiple pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Best Large Backpacks

Here are some of the best large backpacks:

• Herschel Little America Backpack: A spacious, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Columbia Zigzag 30L Backpack: A lightweight, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Best Small Backpacks

Here are some of the best small backpacks:

• Herschel Supply Settlement Backpack: A compact, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack: A compact, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Other Notable Backpacks for High School and College Students

Here are some other notable backpacks for high school and college students:

• The North Face Jester School Laptop Backpack: A durable, water-repellent backpack with multiple compartments and pockets for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L: A lightweight, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands
• FjallRaven Kanken 15-Inch Laptop Backpack: A compact, water-repellent backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Source: Backpack Brands

Our Testing Process

At Backpack Brands, we take pride in our rigorous testing process. Here’s a look at how we test backpacks:

• Research: We research the latest backpack trends, technologies, and features to ensure that our reviews are comprehensive and up-to-date.
• Hands-on testing: We test backpacks in real-world scenarios to evaluate their performance, comfort, and durability.
• Comparison: We compare backpacks from different brands and categories to provide a comprehensive overview of the market.

Our Experts

At Backpack Brands, we have a team of experts who are passionate about backpacks. Here’s a look at our team:

• Shauna: A backpack enthusiast with over 10 years of experience in the outdoor industry.
• Brigitt: A fashion expert with a keen eye for style and design.
• Ali: A tech expert with a passion for gadgets and innovation.

Factors to Consider in Backpacks for High School and College Students

When choosing a backpack for high school or college, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important factors to consider:

• Comfort: Look for backpacks with wide, adjustable, padded straps and a breathable back panel for comfort and support.
• Compartments and pockets: Strategically placed compartments and pockets can help organize and position items effectively.
• Quality materials: Look for backpacks made from durable, water-repellent materials that can withstand daily use.
• Ergonomic design: Look for backpacks with ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly and provide support for the back and shoulders.
• Technology integration: Consider backpacks with features such as USB charging ports, RFID-blocking pockets, and laptop sleeves for added convenience and protection.

Who We Are

At Backpack Brands, we are passionate about backpacks. We believe that a great backpack can make all the difference in your daily life, whether you’re a student, a commuter, or an outdoor enthusiast. Our mission is to provide comprehensive reviews and guides to help you find the perfect backpack for your needs.

Recommended Links

Here are some recommended links for further reading:

• Backpack Brands: https://www.backpackbrands.org/
• The North Face: https://www.thenorthface.com/
• JanSport: https://www.jansport.com/
• Lululemon: http://www.lululemon.com/about/careers/job-details/?jobId=016720

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about backpacks:

• What is the best backpack for high school students?
  The best backpack for high school students depends on several factors, including personal style, budget, and specific needs. Some popular options include The North Face Borealis Backpack, JanSport Cool Student Backpack, and Lululemon Triple-Zip Backpack.

• What is the best backpack for college students?
  The best backpack for college students depends on several factors, including personal style, budget, and specific needs. Some popular options include The North Face Router Backpack, Nordace Aerial Infinity Backpack, and FjallRaven Skule 28.

• What is the best backpack for tech enthusiasts?
  The best backpack for tech enthusiasts depends on several factors, including personal style, budget, and specific needs. Some popular options include L.L. Bean Comfort Carry Laptop Backpack, Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack, and Swissgear 3760 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack.

Reference Links

Here are some reference links for further reading:

• American Academy of Pediatrics: https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/142/1_MeetingAbstract
• Backpack Brands: https://www.backpackbrands.org/
• The North Face: https://www.thenorthface.com/
• JanSport: https://www.jansport.com/
• Lululemon: http://www.lululemon.com/about/careers/job-details/?jobId=016720

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Backpack Brands in the USA for School 🎒

In summary, choosing the right backpack for school is crucial for both comfort and functionality. With a myriad of options available, we’ve highlighted some of the best backpack brands in the USA, including The North Face, JanSport, Lululemon, and FjallRaven.

Positives:

• Durability: Most of the recommended backpacks are made from high-quality, water-repellent materials that withstand daily wear and tear.
• Comfort: Features like padded straps and ergonomic designs ensure comfort during long school days.
• Organization: Multiple compartments and pockets help students keep their essentials organized and easily accessible.

Negatives:

• Price Range: Some high-quality backpacks can be on the pricier side, although they often provide excellent value over time.
• Weight: While most backpacks are designed to be lightweight, adding too many items can still lead to discomfort if not managed properly.

Ultimately, we confidently recommend investing in a backpack from one of the brands mentioned above. They have proven their worth through rigorous testing and user feedback, ensuring that you’re making a smart choice for your school needs. So, whether you’re heading to high school or college, you can rest assured that these backpacks will serve you well!

Recommended Links

• 👉 Shop The North Face Backpacks: Amazon | The North Face Official Website
• 👉 Shop JanSport Backpacks: Amazon | JanSport Official Website
• 👉 Shop Lululemon Backpacks: Amazon | Lululemon Official Website
• 👉 Shop FjallRaven Backpacks: Amazon | FjallRaven Official Website

FAQ

Which school backpack is best?

The best school backpack varies based on individual needs, but popular choices include The North Face Borealis for its comfort and storage, and JanSport Cool Student for its classic design and ample space.

What is the best backpack brand?

While many brands offer quality backpacks, The North Face and JanSport consistently receive high ratings for durability, comfort, and functionality. They cater to a variety of styles and needs, making them top contenders.

What is the best bag to use for school?

The best bag for school is one that combines comfort, style, and functionality. Backpacks like the Lululemon Triple-Zip and FjallRaven Kanken are excellent choices for students looking for both aesthetic appeal and practical features.

What backpacks do high schoolers use?

High schoolers often gravitate towards brands like JanSport, Herschel, and The North Face due to their stylish designs and practical features. Many students prefer backpacks with multiple compartments to keep their school supplies organized.

How do I choose the right size backpack for school?

When choosing a backpack, consider your height and body size. A good rule of thumb is to select a backpack that is proportional to your frame, ensuring it doesn’t exceed 10% of your body weight. Look for adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable fit.

Are there backpacks specifically designed for tech gear?

Yes! Many brands offer backpacks designed with technology in mind. For instance, the Swissgear 3760 ScanSmart and L.L. Bean Comfort Carry Laptop Backpack feature dedicated compartments for laptops and tablets, as well as additional pockets for chargers and accessories.

How can I maintain my backpack?

To keep your backpack in good condition, regularly clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, avoid overloading it, and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use. Checking for any wear and tear can help you address issues before they become bigger problems.

Reference Links

• The North Face Official Site
• JanSport Official Site
• Lululemon Official Site
• FjallRaven Official Site
• Teen Vogue: Best Backpacks for College Students
• American Academy of Pediatrics

With this comprehensive guide, you’re fully equipped to make an informed decision about the best backpack for your school needs! Happy shopping! 🎉