Looking for the perfect backpack for school, outdoor adventures, or travel? We’ve sifted through 3,000 comments, 20 mom groups, and researched the top backpacks in all of the land. Here are the top reviewed and recommended bags.

1. Pottery Barn: Rainbow Heart Glow-in-the-dark, Mackenzie Large Backpack

Durable, functional and glow-in-the-dark. It’s made of water-resistant polyester with sturdy zippers and straps, plus plenty of pockets to hold all their things. Exterior pockets to hold water bottle, also personalization add-on is nice. The small is perfect size for pre-school and up to 6 or 7 years old. There are outside straps and pockets for extras like a lunch bag too.

2. JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack

JanSport has been around since 1967. These backpacks are lightweight, affordable, and durable. They never seem to break or have a problem throughout the year. Available is so many color and design choices. Pretty much a staple, great for all grades. Going to pick up this cheetah print for ourselves.

3. L.L.Bean Original Book Pack

Ah, the monogrammed L.L. Bean backpack. Did anyone else spend their school days trying to figure out everyone’s middle initial…NAH? This backpack has passed the test of time, I still have mine and it’s been over 20 years. These bags last forever, are super durable, very comfortable, and have water bottle pockets that aren’t mesh (won’t tear or break). Bonus: these bags are covered by a one year warranty. Monogramming is also key.

4. Wildkin Kids 15 Inch Backpack

This is a great bag for daycare through elementary school. Large enough to hold standard 11 1/2 x 8 folders and a lunch bag.  Also great for camp and overnight for holding a change of clothes. It comes in so many designs and patterns.

5. Herschel Heritage Backpack Youth

If you’re looking for more of a stylish, minimalist type of bag Herschel checks both of those boxes. This bag is good for kids size to be able to fit a full size folder, along with his lunchbox and water. It is proportionate to a 4-8yr olds body, if you need bigger head to the next size.

6. Trans by Jansport 17″ Super Cool Backpack

This is a line of Jansport available at Target. It’s comfortable, sturdy and comes in a lot of different patterns and designs. Great for kids 8+, lots of pockets and room. Very lightweight. 

7. Fortnite 18″ Kids’ Multiplier Backpack

If you have a Fortnite enthusiast, this one is for you. It’s heavily stitched and padded shoulder straps for comfort. Heavy duty zippers that easily open and close. It is fully padded on the inside and bottom, great for carrying items like laptops, tablets or gaming devices. Plenty of room and compartments for school supplies and books.

Whether it’s virtual or in the classroom, it wouldn’t be back to school without the big backpack decision. Happy hunting!

backtoschool school