The 9 Best Backpacks for Kids at Every Age
Whether it's strictly for school or something they bring with them wherever they go, backpacks are essential for kids. Many kids start using a backpack when they're as young as preschool age and they'll continue using them regularly well into their college (and even post-grad) years.
Best Overall: L.L. Bean Original Book Pack
We chose the L.L. Bean Original Book Pack as our clear winner because it's available it's available in several colors and has been used by families since 1982. It's made from weatherproof nylon and comes equipped with padded adjustable shoulders, a padded back, and reflective materials on the straps so your child will be visible even in the dark.
It has several pockets and compartments, including a water bottle pocket on the side, and a large compartment that can hold notebooks, folders, books, and a lunchbox at once. It's safe for kids as young as six years old to use and it can be machine washed and line dried.
Best Design: Wildkin Pack-it-All Kids Backpack
Aside from being downright adorable, this backpack measures 15 x 11 x 4.7 inches and is specifically designed with a front pocket that's large enough to hold a bento box with snacks. It also features adjustable padded straps and a padded back for comfort and support, and a side water bottle pocket.
The backpack is made from super heavy-duty materials and has a waterproof interior liner to keep everything safe and dry. Finally, if your kid can't get enough of the backpack's cute pattern, you can also purchase a matching lunchbox separately.
Best for Preschool: Skip Hop Toddler Backpack
Intentionally made for preschoolers as young as three years old, this backpack has an adjustable side water bottle pocket and an insulated front pocket that's just the right size for holding snacks.
The main compartment lends plenty of room for a small tablet, book, and some toys, and there is an interior name label to help your child keep track of it. This backpack has adjustable padded straps, is easy to clean, and measures 11 x 5 x 12 inches.
Best for Middle School: STATE Kane Kid's Backpack
With more than 10 color and pattern options to choose from, this backpack is both stylish and high-quality. It measures 14.95 x 11.22 x 4.72 inches and features a side water bottle pocket and a main compartment with interior zippered pockets, slip pockets, pen holders, and enough space to hold books, folders, and notebooks with room to spare. The bag is equipped with padded adjustable shoulder straps and a name tag. When it's dirty, you can toss it into the washer on a gentle cycle and it will come out good as new.
By purchasing this backpack, you not only ensure your kid has a high-quality bag for the school year but you also help give back because STATE uses a portion of its profits to provide backpacks and school supplies to kids in need.
Best for High School: JanSport Cool Student Backpack
Classic and right to the point, this backpack is available in several colors and patterns and features a minimalist design with a large main compartment and three zippered exterior pockets. The padded, adjustable shoulder straps are ergonomically designed and the bag features a leather bottom for both style and durability.
This backpack measures 17.5 x 13 x 10 inches, has an internal sleeve that's large enough to fit a 15-inch laptop, and has a fully padded back panel for extra comfort.
