Backpacks for university students is the topic of today’s post.
One of the most important tools for college students is a reliable, durable, and well-designed backpack. After all, a backpack isn’t just about carrying books; it’s a mobile command center for a student’s life.
As a former classroom teacher with over a decade of experience and a current educator, I understand the importance of choosing the right backpack for a college student. Based on my own experience as an EdTech blogger, and the extensive research I’ve done in this regard where I’ve gone through tons of customer reviews evaluating user reviews and ratings, I bring you a collection of what I think are some of the best backpacks for college students.
My recommendations are not based simply on personal opinion, but rather on a thorough evaluation of numerous factors including durability, storage capacity, comfort, design, and value for money.
So whether you’re a teacher, educator, parent, or student, I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision in your search for the perfect backpack for college. Let’s dive in!
For more back-to-school resources, be sure to check out our back-to-school section.
The best backpacks for college students
Here are our top picks for backpacks for college students:
1 matien backpack
This is definitely our favorite on this list. I have had the Maitien backpack for many years and I love it. The Matien backpack offers comprehensive features along with a robust design that keeps in mind the needs of today’s college students. This backpack serves as a reliable companion, helping to keep your essentials safe, while also offering a USB charging port for those on the go.
Characteristics
- Dimensions: 12 x 18 x 7.8 inches; Total capacity: 30 liters
- Laptop Compartment – Fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop, with additional space for smaller devices
- One roomy compartment for daily necessities, front compartment with multiple pockets for optimal organization
- Durable, water-resistant polyester fabric with metal zippers ensures long-lasting use
- Integrated USB charger for convenience (external power supply required)
- Security: Hidden anti-theft pocket for added security and a luggage strap for easy transport while traveling
Cons
- Self-charging: The backpack is not self-charging capable and requires an external power source for USB charging function
- Design – May be considered basic or less fancy by some users looking for fashion options
2. SwissGear 1900 Backpack
SwissGear 1900 Backpack is the second best option on my list of the best backpacks for college students. SwissGear offers some amazing features and a huge amount of storage space.
The SwissGear 1900 backpack is ideal for college students and can ease your movement to/from campus. Includes a designated laptop compartment designed for quick security checks at airports.
Characteristics
- Dimensions: 9 x 19 x 14 inches; Total capacity: 31 liters
- Laptop and Tablet Storage: Enhanced laptop compartment with zippered access for a 17-inch laptop and padded TabletSafe pocket
- Organization: Main compartment with an accordion file and an RFID protected organizer compartment with a removable key ring/key clip and multiple divider pockets
- Comfort: Ergonomically contoured padded shoulder straps, adjustable compression straps, airflow back padding, and reinforced molded top handle
Cons
- Weight: At 3.3 pounds, it could be considered heavy compared to other packs
3. Abshoo classic basic backpack
Next on our list of the best back to school backpacks for college students is the Abshoo Classical Basic backpack. This is a lightweight option designed for everyday use.
The Abshoo Classic Backpack offers practicality for carrying essentials like a tablet or laptop and snacks while remaining fashionable and cool. Its water-resistant, lightweight polyester material makes it a reliable choice for everyday use.
Characteristics
- Dimensions: 12.2″L x 5.3″D x 16.5″H
- Material: Made of lightweight, high-quality, waterproof polyester.
- Storage: Spacious interior, perfect for carrying a tablet/laptop and snacks
- Design: Stylish and cool design suitable for school and college going students
- Warranty: Comes with a 12-month warranty to ensure quality.
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy use due to its lightweight material
- May lack advanced organization options, depending on user needs
4. VASCHY unisex classic backpack
The VASCHY Unisex Classic backpack is another powerful backpack for college students. With its classic design and durable, water-resistant polyester material, college students will find it highly functional.
The VASCHY backpack has a vintage design and has a spacious main compartment. It is suitable for students who carry heavy textbooks and notebooks.
Characteristics
- Dimensions: 18.5″ x 12.9″ x 5.5″ (height x length x width); Capacity: 23 Liters
- Material: Durable, water-resistant polyester
- Storage: Main compartment with double zip closure, one exterior zip pocket, water bottle pockets on both sides, padded Ipad/laptop pocket (fits up to a 15-inch laptop) and four interior zip pockets
- Comfort: Adjustable padded reinforced shoulder strap and anti-theft back pocket for secure and comfortable use
- Design: Classic diamond-shaped silhouette at front with suede-like padded bottom.
Cons
- Some users, especially younger students, may find it heavy or bulky.
5. ProEtrade Backpack
The ProEtrade backpack integrates durability, storage capacity and security and goes one step further by including an ergonomic design for comfort.
The ProEtrade backpack is made of high quality scratch resistant fabric with a heavy duty zipper design. Its multi-compartment design ensures your belongings are organized, and the unique night-light reflective design adds an element of safety when used in dark areas.
Characteristics
- Dimensions: 19″H x 12.5″W x 8″D; Light weight: 1.5 pounds
- Material: High quality anti-scratch fabric with durable zipper design
- Storage: Two main compartments, one laptop pocket, two zipped front pockets, two side pockets for water bottles, and one interior pocket for keys or small accessories
- Safety: Features a reflective night light design on the front and back for added safety in the dark
- Comfort: Ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps with breathable mesh and multi-layer sponge padding on the back panel
Cons
- The material may not be the most luxurious for those looking for a more premium look.
- Limited color and design options compared to other brands.
6. JanSport backpack
JanSport is another great backpack for college students. I currently have a pair that I use during my travels. JanSport is a roomy, comfortable, and durable backpack that comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
The JanSport backpack offers a large carrying capacity with two main compartments and a dedicated padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop. Its high-quality construction, combined with comfort-enhancing features, makes it a great choice for students who need to carry a lot of essentials.
Characteristics
- Dimensions: 17.5 x 15 x 3 inches; Capacity: 34 Liters
- Material: Made with durable 100% polyester.
- Storage: Two large main compartments, dedicated padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, side water bottle pocket, front utility pocket, front pleat pocket, and front zippered pocket
- Comfort: ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps and fully padded back panel
- Design: Available in over 35 colors, prints, and patterns.
Cons
- While the large size offers excellent storage, it can feel bulky for some users, especially younger students.
