A trail-ready backpack that is more than capable of serious multi-day adventures and won’t break the bank. 60 liters is one of the most versatile backpack sizes you can go with. It makes for an ideal long-term travel backpack size. Backpack Hooks Etsy Check out our backpack hooks selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our hooks & fixtures shops. Privacy Settings Etsy uses cookies and similar technologies to give you a better experience, enabling things like: basic site functions ensuring secure, safe transactions secure account login.

Going to college is a big change, it’s a chance to shoulder some extra responsibility, try new things, and really take control of your own education. Of course, college is not all fun and games and there will be some tough decisions that have to be made during your college career– starting with your choice of backpack.

So, which is the best backpack to pick for the job? To lighten your load and ensure that you never have a problem carting everything from A to B, we have put together a list of the top 16 college backpacks available. Whether you’re tech-savvy, fashion-conscious, or a bit of a backpack hoarder – you won’t have any problem finding the best college backpack on our list.

The Best Backpack For College

Don’t let the hassle of a busy day leave you in chaos and disorderliness, this Laptop Business Anti-Theft Backpack is designed to keep all the necessary items in one place for easy access. With the capacity to contain a 15.6-inch laptop, it has a good amount of space to keep your useful devices safely in place. The main pockets are conveniently sized to accommodate other accessories such as chargers, books and even a change of clothes. There’s a front pocket that provides easy access to those items you’ll need regularly such as keys, I.D’s, credit cards and the likes.

What’s even better is the built-in USB cable that allows you to plug a mobile power hub in to charge one or more devices on the go. In addition to easy charging, there’s an anti-theft system that prevents anyone from picking items from the bag via its secure lock. This keeps personal items and valuables safely in place without worries of people getting access to important projects, files, and other information. The bag is made from a water-resistant smooth nylon material that ensures the durability of the bag as well as quality zippers that open and close quite easily.

Water-resistant

In-built USB port

Anti-theft locks

Comfortable and versatile

• BrandMancro
• ModelBP-001
• Weight1.5 pounds

The AmazonBasics Backpack for Laptops up to 17-Inches is the dream backpack for any student who likes to stay on top of organization and make sure they are never missing an essential item. Featuring 5 compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, small internal sleeves, and additional storage for a water bottle, you’ll have no trouble fitting your laptop, textbooks, and revision notes in this handy backpack. The large carry capacity is offset with heavily padded straps, so you won’t need to worry about struggling with your equipment when you use the AmazonBasics Backpack.

Multi-compartments

Mesh water bottle pockets

Organizational compartments for stationaries

Holds laptops up to 17 inches in size

• BrandAmazonBasics
• ModelNC1306167R1
• Weight1.98 lbs

For a less busy day in school or a much-needed trip to the library, the Vancropak Water Resistant School Backpack is the right pick. It may not be as large as other backpacks, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in compartments. The design is simple and sleek enough to fit in with your daily outfits, with several pockets to keep necessities at reach. Made from premium quality water-resistant canvas set to last for the long haul, this classy bag would be a great gift to a friend or family member in college.

It features a large compartment for a laptop, notebook or tablets and other compartments for books, chargers, and stationaries. This bag also comes with a USB port that connects to a USB cable for charging devices while walking or riding. On the sides are adjustable pockets to fit a water bottle on the go. It doubles as a suitable bag for traveling, going on trips, work and the likes with a lightweight form that won’t add pressure to the load. The high base is well reinforced to be placed on different types of terrains and balances well on flat surfaces. For a stylish outlook and a multi-functional bag, this premium quality school backpack is definitely recommended.

Versatile and multi-functional bag

Several functional pockets

External USB charging port

Water-proof

• BrandVancropak
• Modela-001
• Weight5.8 ounces

The Herschel Supply Co. Retreat Backpack is one of the best backpacks for college students who find themselves lugging a lot of tech across campus on a regular basis. The enormous central compartment can fit multiple folders, textbooks, and a laptop, without breaking a sweat, or compromising on the safety of your valuable equipment. The added bonuses of a comfortable design, contoured straps, and traditionally charming aesthetics, makes the Herschel Supply Co. Retreat Backpack a highly popular choice for college students looking to lighten their load.

Lightweight and ergonomically designed

One large compartment with divisions

Drawstring with flap

Front pocket

• BrandHerschel Supply Co.
• Model10066-00534-OS
• Weight2.25 lbs

If you want a backpack that truly matches your style, or perhaps one for every day of the week, then the Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Backpack is a choice that is not going to let you down. The classic Herschel design, with a primary compartment and exterior compartment, is available in a near endless list of designs and colors, making it the perfect backpack for any occasion. With an expertly finished design, the Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Backpack is the ideal backpack for traipsing around campus and enjoying yourself on the weekends.

Synthetic leather diamond accent

Media port

Laptop sleeve

Front pocket and key clip

• BrandHerschel Supply Co.
• Model10007-00061-OS
• Weight1.46 lbs

College is one of the biggest adventures of your life, so what could be better for the job than an expedition style backpack? The JanSport Hatchet Backpack is ideal for the tech-savvy student. The backpack features a tablet pocket, ample space for a laptop, and multiple compartments for optimum organization. The rustic expedition style design is highly stylish, giving the JanSport Hatchet Backpack a perfect combination of stylish and comfortable, with all the practicality you’ll ever need.

Padded straps

Weather-resistant

Fits laptops up to 15-inches

Tablet sleeve

Adjustable strap

Room for hydration system

• BrandJanSport
• ModelT52S0FX
• Weight1.35 lbs

The Pivoter Laptop Backpack by The North Face is the perfect option for students who need a safe and strong backpack to carry their electronics across campus. The unique design makes opening and closing the backpack quick and easy, with secure internal pockets for easy organization. Featuring a simple yet stylish design, The North Face Pivoter Laptop Backpack is ideal for making heavy loads much more manageable.

D-door opening

27l capacity

Backpack Hookup Site Crossword Clue

Multiple internal pockets

Fits laptops up to 15-inches

Two water bottle holders

Front zipper pocket

Padded laptop sleeve

• BrandThe North Face
• ModelCHJ8JK3
• Weight1.88 lbs

Herschel Supply Co. Classic Backpack Multipurpose Backpack

Featuring a clean but stylish design, the Herschel Supply Co. Classic Backpack is a classical choice with plenty of modern additions. The traditionally styled backpack has a singular internal compartment capable of fitting larger laptops and textbooks, and an additional large exterior pocket on the front of the backpack. For a sophisticated start to your college year with a comfortable but hard-wearing backpack, the Herschel Supply Co. Classic Backpack Multipurpose Backpack is an ideal choice.

Two zipper compartments

Padded shoulder straps

Haul handle

16” shoulder drop

• BrandHerschel Supply Co.
• Model10001-00001-OS
• Weight1.1 lbs

Twinning practicality with a comfortable design, the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack is a great choice for a secure and built-to-last backpack. The large internal compartment is ideal for storing laptops up to 15-inches, and the multitude of compartments make organizing your equipment a breeze. With a comfortable strap and ventilated backing, you’ll be able to carry everything you need for class without struggling under the weight.

Three interior pockets

Four exterior pockets

Organizational compartments

Fits laptops up to 15-inches

Ventilated panel on the back

Zip pockets

• BrandTimbuk2
• Model384-3-2001
• Weight1.5 lbs

Carhartt Legacy Classic Work Backpack with Padded Laptop Sleeve

While the sleek and elegant design of the Carhartt Legacy Classic Work Backpack makes it the perfect choice for any fashion-conscious student, the strong and durable design also makes it incredibly practical. Designed for comfort and security with a dedicated laptop pocket, water-repellent design, and abrasion-resistant bottom, the Carhartt Legacy Classic Work Backpack gives you plenty of room to store your equipment but also a peace of mind over the security of your belongings.

Two external zip pockets

Abrasion-resistant

Dedicated laptop pocket

Tablet compartment

Heavy duty material

Water repellent

• BrandCarhartt
• Model19032502
• Weight1.1 lbs

Statement backpacks rarely come more unique or colourful than the Fjallraven – Foldsack No.1. The beautifully designed backpack is available in every colour of the rainbow, with vibrant designs to make sure that you never lose your backpack in a crowd. A large singular internal compartment, with laptop sleeve, makes the Fjallraven – Foldsack No.1 perfect for everyday use while still enabling you to stay organized with the zipped front external compartment. The simple design of the backpack is embellished with large metal buckles, the classic Fjällräven logo, and comfortable straps.

Laptop sleeve

Fits laptops up to 15-inches

External zip pocket

Padded base

• BrandFjällräven
• ModelF24210-Dark Navy-Uncle Blue
• Weight1.3 lbs

For a lightweight backpack that will safely store your essential college equipment, and leave you room to spare, the JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack is a top choice. Available in multiple colors and capable of fitting a 15-inch laptop securely in the internal sleeve, the backpack is a great combination of stylish and practical. Whether you have a packed day at college or need ample room to store your gym clothes, the JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack is a comfortable, practical, and durable choice for every occasion.

External zip pockets

Fits laptops up to 15-inches

Suede leather base

Padded straps

Laptop sleeve

• BrandJanSport
• ModelTYP71P7
• Weight1 lb

The North Face Vault Backpack lives up to its name, providing a vault on the go for your valuable belongings. The adventure-style backpack is fantastic for those hectic days when you need to cram everything into your bag quickly – whether to attend lessons or take off for the day. With a 28l capacity, 15-inch laptop sleeve, and plenty of internal organizational compartments, you should have no problem fitting your textbooks inside or keeping your laptop safe.

Padded sleeve for laptops

Fits laptops up to 15-inches

Foam backing

Zipper closure compartment

Organizational compartments

• BrandThe North Face
• ModelT0CHJ0WBP
• Weight1.44 lbs

The Eastpak Padded Pakr Backpack is a reincarnation of the classic backpack style at its finest. If you want a sturdy backpack that is easy to use and very durable, without any extra fuss, then the Eastpak Padded Pakr Backpack has you covered. There is ample room to fit all your equipment, and a handy external storage space for your valuables. The backpack is comfortable, with padding on the straps and front, and built to last through your college years.

Zipper closure compartment

Internal organiser

External zipper pocket

Padded straps and back

Fits Laptops up to 13-inch

• BrandEastpak
• ModelEastpak-Padded-Tot-5415101992430-$P
• Weight1.9 lbs

Whether it’s hanging by the wayside or slugged over your shoulders, these things get really damn heavy. This Thule EnRoute 23L capacity bag comes with dedicated, organized storage for everything you’re bringing to and from college. Quick access pockets come with specific linings to allow you to carry a water bottle, umbrella, phone, or anything else you need. On top of that, there’s dedicated storage for your laptop and tablet, as well as a hard shell exterior for damage coverage on certain slots. Thanks to the vertical pill-shaped design, it’s supportive of your lower lumbar, and even includes a chest strap to keep your center of gravity on-point.

15.6” padded laptop sleeve

10” tablet sleeve

Hard shell safe-zone compartment

Designed for quick access with lined pockets and additional slots

Design supports proper lumbar support

• BrandThule
• Model3203599
• Weight2.16 pounds

It’s a bit reminiscent of your primary days, but gets the job done on a budget. Nearly 19L of storage space, with four interior pockets for whatever you want to store. Stash a 14” laptop in here, and make full use of the external water bottle slot. You even get a port to feed your earbud wires through for maximum discretion. In terms of support, there’s a lower lumbar cushioning system to prevent strain. Vaschy Unisex Classic will be so lightweight and comfortable, you’ll forget how heavy it is when you drop it down: don’t worry, there’s a reinforced bottom specifically designed to cushion that blow. It’s a budgeter’s backpack, perfect for a college student price range.

Highly water-repellent polyester exterior construction

Double zipper closure on your main compartment

Fully padded lumbar support system

Four interior pockets w/ water bottle slot

Stitched polyester carry handle

• BrandVaschy
• ModelVABP01YW
• Weight1.46 pounds

Puma pounced on the competition with this ultra low pricing. While the low cost is due to the plastic frame and lens, there’s a sturdiness to this that the marketing just doesn’t do justice for. Start off with a lightweight build and padded, adjustable shoulder straps, allowing you to make good on any weight that you’re currently carrying. Whether it’s the laptop in your dedicated sleeve, or your zippered pocket if full-up and flooded with items in the organizer, you’ll be ready to slug it over your shoulders. There’s an added exterior mesh pocket for a water bottle or quick-access items, as well as a compression strap to minimize unused space, and keep this perfect with your center of gravity.

Padded, adjustable shoulder straps for support and comfort

Organizer panel in the center zipper pocket

Stitched carry handle

Dedicated laptop storage sleeve

Mesh exterior side pocket

• BrandPuma
• ModelPV1674
• Weight1.35 pounds

This is one brand that redefines quality: Victorinox products can be found all over Gear Hungry, and for good reason. They focus on every minor detail that would otherwise pass right by lower-grade companies without so much as a second glance. This one includes enough space for a 17” laptop in a padded, dedicated sleeve, and boasts both interior and exterior pockets for organization; if you make a mess of the inside of this bag, you really have to be trying. Earth-friendly fibers are accented with napa leather accents, while the durable shoulder straps keep fatigue at bay from morning until night. There isn’t one inch of this bag that isn’t absolutely stunning or high-grade.

Padded sleeve designed for a 17” laptop

Earth-friendly construction with leather accents

Exterior organization pockets and panel

Also includes interior organizational panel

Durable Victorinox-made steel zipper closure

Padded shoulder straps for maximum comfort and support

• BrandVictorinox
• Model32325701
• Weight3.35 pounds

Topo Designs is a backpack designer that’s based out of Colorado. The firm has made some impressive products in the past, and the Topo Designs Daypack stands among the company’s most iconic products. The backpack comes with an outdoors aesthetic, although it also has an urban feel to it that is appealing to young adults. It’s made from durable materials and with the 1000D Cordura exterior, you know this thing was built to last.

At the upper right-hand side is a leather lash tab that looks to be more of an aesthetic addition than something functional. It adds to the vintage look, so no biggie there. As for storage, you get two water bottle pouches, one on each side. They’re also made from the same material, and they’re large enough to fit bigger water bottles so you can always stay hydrated between classes.

However, you should know that this water bottle pouches aren’t too stretchy. So, while they’re large and deep, you’re still somewhat restricted in terms of the types of bottles you can place there.

The bag has nylon loops at different locations, and while they add to the bag’s overall look, they also add a unique dimension to the bag.

Vintage look

Strong material

Easy to handle

• BrandTopo Designs

Tommy Hilfiger Patriot Colorblock Canvas Backpack

In the fashion industry, Tommy Hilfiger is one of those brands that doesn’t need any form of introduction. You see their stuff, and the word ‘quality’ screams at you. With Tommy Hilfiger’s Patriot Colorblock Canvas Backpack, the brand didn’t disappoint at all. The bag is as beautiful as it’s effective, and it will get you maximum bang for your buck.

The first thing you’ll see when you pick this product, of course, is the iconic Tommy Hilfiger design template. Blue, red, and white highlight the brand’s identity, and the entire bag is made in its image.

You’ll also get a simple and straightforward design. The bag has one large pocket and a small one, although both are sizable on their own. You can store your books, laptop, and even shoes in the larger one, while the smaller pocket is a surefire way to store stationery and perhaps your phone. It provides easy access to whatever is in there, although the zipper tends to get rusted quicker, according to some customers.

The bag also provides a pair of adjustable shoulder straps, so you can always fit it to suit your needs.

Note, however, that the navy blue color that covers a significant part of the bag is also susceptible to bleaching and turning more to faded purple. So, it’s best to keep the bag away from water if you don’t want to ruin the design.

Simple to use

Lightweight

Ample storage space

• BrandTommy Hilfiger
• Weight11.2 ounces

Putting comfort first is no crime; a backpack will probably follow you everywhere, from home to school, the library even a friends’ dorm room. Exchanging files, doing projects and the likes has been made easy with the Amazonbasics Classic School White Backpack that provides students with an ergonomically designed bag. This eases up the tasks of getting schoolwork done, getting busy with campus life or planning the next campaign or concert.

Regardless of the plans ahead, this bag will carry material for academics and your budding social life with enough space to contain a good number of items without wear or tear. It has one large compartment for storage with two zippers that meet at the top for easy locking. The nylon ensures it doesn’t get worn out from exposure to moisture or water and lasts a good amount of time. There are several pockets available that ensure all items can be well organized for easy access at any time. This bag will definitely give a bang for your buck with its space capacity, useful pockets, and durable make.

2 velcro side pockets

Padded shoulder straps

Generously spaced interior

Made with quality nylon material

• BrandAmazonBasics
• ModelZH1508073E
• Weight13.9 ounces

JanSport is one of the biggest backpack manufacturers in the world. We don’t really need to tell you about the quality of these packs – the amazing Amazon reviews and brand’s reputation do that. Instead, we’ll just tell you the features of the JanSport Big Student Backpack. It has a large interior capacity with space for a 15-inch laptop. On the outside, it has three large zippered pockets. For comfort, it has ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a web haul handle. Plus, it’s available in over 35 colors, prints, and patterns. This is one of the most popular college backpacks on the market, and we’re not surprised.

Made from 100% polyester

Fits a 15-inch laptop

Three exterior zippered pockets

Ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps

Available in 35 colors, prints, & patterns

• BrandJanSport
• ModelBig Student
• Weight1.5 pounds

The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is one of the best-reviewed products in this category. Designed for modern students, it has a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate up to a 15.6-inch laptop. It’s got pockets designed for your phone, tablet, pens, and key fob. And, it even has an external USB port that you can hook up to your own power bank (not included) and charge your smartphone/devices on the go. Of course, none of that’s important if the materials aren’t high-quality enough. Fortunately, it’s made from polyester, a water-resistant and durable fabric. All in all, it’s one of the best college backpacks on the market right now.

Made from polyester

Fits 15.6-inch laptop

Multiple exterior zippered pockets

Tinder Hookup Site

Built-in USB port

Luggage strap

Hookup Site Free

Available in six colors

• BrandMatein
• ModelLSG1004GRYB1
• Weight1.56 pounds

If you’re looking for a more traditional looking backpack, the Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack is perfect. It has classic design but it’s been updated to make it useful in the modern world. For example, it’s made from 600D polyester, which is a relatively modern material that offers durability, water-resistance, scratch-resistance, and anti-tearing ability. It’s also much more lightweight than a traditional canvas backpack. On top of that, it has a built-in USB port that lets you hook up a charging port and phone through your backpack. We also like the fact that it comes in some beautiful classic colors.

Made from 600D polyester

Water, scratch, and tear-resistant

Built-in USB port

Six compartments

Vegan leather trim

• BrandModoker

The Tzowla Travel Laptop Backpack is designed for travel but it makes a great college backpack too. We like it because it has that low-profile design that suits the modern student. You don’t need to carry around a huge pile of books and folders anymore. Everything is on your laptop. That’s why this backpack has a 15.6-inch padded laptop compartment and a locking system on top to keep it safe. You can fit a couple of books in here as well but it’s definitely not the roomiest backpack on this list. Like a lot of modern college backpacks, it also has a built-in USB charger, so you can keep your devices charged throughout the day.

Made from polyester

15.6-inch laptop compartment

Anti-theft design

Built-in USB port

Hook Up Site

Low-profile design

Backpack Hookup Site Videos

• BrandTzowla
• ModelBRS-LTBKXX2-Black
• Weight1.6 pounds