13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (2024)

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Even though it feels like the school year just began, it’s coming to a quick end pretty soon. That means it’s time to focus on securing everything your teens need for the next school year. It’s hard to think of when you’re lounging by the pool, but it’s always good to get a jump on back-to-school shopping so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. One essential that should be at the top of your list? Anew backpackthat will get your child excited toactuallygo back to school. If you have no idea where to begin looking for thebest backpacks for teens, let us help.

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Best Backpacks for Teens at a Glance

Best Overall: Kipling Seoul Large Laptop Backpack, $124
Best Amazon Pick: Fjallraven Kanken, $90
Best Tie Dye Backpack: No Boundaries Hands Free Backpack, $19
Most Affordable: Wild Fable Full Square Backpack, $20, was $25
Best Rugged Backpack: Carhartt Kickflip Canvas Backpack, $118
Best Metallic:STATE Kane Kids Large, $130
Best North Face Backpack: North Face Jester Water Repellent Backpack, $75
Best Customizable Backpack: Stoney Clover Lane Classic Backpack, $148
Best Travel Backpack: Himawari Travel Backpack, $34
Best Lululemon Backpack: Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L, $98

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What to Look for in a Good Backpack for Your Teen

Durability is key when looking for a new backpack for your teen. Choose backpacks with nylon and polyester fabrics. The combination of materials can withstand daily wear and tear, and it’s also easy to wash and spot clean. You also want to look for bags with plenty of room and compartments. A large interior allows for plenty of room for your teen’s textbooks, pencil cases, gym clothes, and more. And if they take a computer to and from school, select a backpack with a built-in laptop sleeve to protect their electronics from spills and hard throws.

What’s the Best Size for High School Backpacks?

Teenagers need room for everything under the sun, so be prepared to look for packs with a bottomless pit of room. If you can’t find one with copious amounts of room, 15 to 30 liters will do. You can check the bag’s tags to see the capacity before buying. Plus, the space also makes the bag the perfect length for them to carry, which saves them from staining their back and shoulders.

What Are the Latest Backpack Trends?

If your teen loves a classic look, the iconic Jansport backpack, available on Amazon, is a perennial favorite. Plus, you can pick up a few other items on their school supply list while you’re there. Have a child who likes to elevate their style with a simple and chic bag? Gift them this splurge-worthy bag from State or Stoney Clover Lane this year. Of course, you can also stop atLululemonfor some seriously cool backpacks.

Ahead, see 13 of our favorite backpacks for teens.

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Kiplingis a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

  • Kipling Seoul Large Laptop Backpack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (4)

    Kipling’s Seoul Large Laptop Backpack is a fun pick for teens to carry their everyday essentials. The backpack has a pretty cherry shade, a laptop pocket that fits a 15-inch computer, and extra room for books and other items. The bag is made with nylon, making it easy to toss in the washer to clean.

    Dimensions: 12.75″ L x 17.25″ H x 9″ D
    Colorways: Cherry Tonal, True Blue Tonal, Grey Gris, True Black Tonal, Havana Blue
    Weight: 1.41 lbs

    Pros:
    Includes monkey keychain
    Separate pocket with padding to keep laptop safe
    Mulitple colors

    Cons:
    Pricey

    Kipling Seoul Large Laptop Backpack

    $124

    Buy now

  • Fjallraven Kanken in Navy

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (5)

    Amazon shoppers love this backpack for back-to-school, and it’s no surprise why. The 2-in-1 one pack can be carried like a traditional backpack or by its handles. It comes in over 34 colors, and you can snag this navy shade on sale now at Amazon.

    “Gave this to my 10-year-old daughter,” one five-star reviewer wrote. “She often gets compliments on this or overhears moms and older girls chatting about it; we often hear, ‘She’s got one,’ ‘I want one,’ ‘Can you get me one too,’ ‘She has the Fjallraven!'”

    Dimensions: 10.61″ x 5.1″ x 15″
    Colorways: Navy, black, brick,and 31 other colors
    Weight: 0.7 lbs

    Pros:
    Over 30 colors
    Multiple compartments

    Cons:
    Hand wash only

    Fjallraven Kanken Backpack

    $90

    Buy now

  • No Boundaries Hands Free Backpack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (6)

    This $19 backpack is perfect for tweens and newly dubbed teens. It has a fun tie dye print and an easy-to-use design. The bag contains two main compartments to hold books, binders, and other items. You can even fit a lunch in there! Right now, you can snag the backpack in three colors: Tie dye (shown), black, and a blue checkered print.

    Dimensions: 6.75” W x 4.125” H x 2.25” D
    Colorways: Black, Freshwater Blue Check, Multi Tie Dye
    Weight: 0.68 lbs

    Pros:
    Large design
    Locker loop
    Adjustable shoulder straps

    Cons:
    Only available at Walmart

  • Wild Fable Full Square Backpack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (7)

    This 15.4″ square backpack from Target-favorite brand Wild Fable is an affordable, eco-friendly choice. It features durable double-top handles with a snap button. Available in two colors, it’s not big enough to hold the contents of your kid’s entire locker (parents of teens know!), but it’s low-profile enough to carry the essentials.

    Dimensions: 15.4″ H x 11″ W x 5.5″ D
    Colorways: Black and green
    Weight: 15.26 liters

    Pros:
    Affordable
    Spacious

    Cons:
    Limited colors

    Wild Fable Full Square Backpack

    $20, was $25

    Buy now

  • Carhartt Kickflip Canvas Backpack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (8)

    Thisrugged-but-stylish canvas backpackis equally ideal for hauling school stuff or equipment for an outdoor adventure. With multiple compartments, there’s a place for everything — and adjustable straps help ensure a comfortable fit. Shoppers report they can fit a computer, books, gym clothes, and more in the pack. Better yet, it’s available in 5 rugged colors like dollar green, and blue.

    Dimensions: 18 1/2″H x 11 1/2″W x 6″D
    Colorways: Blue, black, and 3 others
    Weight: 1.56 lbs

    Pros:
    Great to use outside of school
    Durable

    Cons:
    Over $100

    Carhartt Kickflip Canvas Backpack

    $118.00

    Buy now

  • STATE Kane Kids Large

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (9)

    Available in 11 cool patterns and colors (we like this one in “Gold”, but they also have some amazing prints, too), the Kane Kids Large backpack from STATE is a little pricier than many, but in this case you definitely get what you pay for — the quality of these backpacks is top notch. Dual compartments allow kids to carry books and binders in one and a laptop or tablet in the other, and water bottle pockets on each side let your kid stay hydrated on the go. It’s durable and has adjustable straps, too!

    Dimensions: 7″ H x 13″ W x 7.5″ D
    Colorways: Gold, navy, camo, and 8 more
    Weight: 1.98 lbs

    Pros:
    Bestseller
    Metallic colors
    Best for kids 4th grade and up

    Cons:
    Spot clean only

    STATE Kane Kids Large

    $130

    Buy now

  • North Face Jester Water Repellent Backpack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (10)

    This backpackis made for comfort — it has brand-specific FlexVent technology that is a suspension system designed to alleviate the weight of what you’re carrying. The bag can hold a day’s worth of essentials, according to the brand. It’s also water-repellent anda offers two top handles that you can carry to alleviate some of the weight off the bag.

    Dimensions: 18″H x 10 1/2″W x 5″D
    Colorways: Pine Needle, gravel, black
    Weight: 1.7 lbs

    Pros:
    Exterior mesh water-bottle pockets
    Water-repellent
    Padded laptop sleeve

    Cons:
    Slim design

    North Face Jester Water Repellent Backpack

    $75

    Buy now

  • Stoney Clover Lane Classic Backpack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (11)

    If your teen wants acustomized backpackthat showcases their interests, head to Stoney Clover Lane for the ultimate customizable bags. There are over 26 colors of packs to choose from and endless patch options to put on the bag for a totally personal touch. Browse letters, hearts, destination patches, and more.

    Dimensions: 16.25″ H x 13.5″ W x 5.25″ D, 2.75″
    Colorways: Grape, blanc, cotton candy, and 12 more
    Weight: 25 ounces

    Pros:
    Customizable with patches or embroidery
    Can purchase matching accessories (sold separately)

    Cons:
    More expensive than other options

  • Himawari Travel Backpack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (12)

    Teenagers are always plugged in and connected, so they’re going to need on-the-go charging resources for their devices. Luckily, this travel backpack has them covered. The Himawari Travel Backpack has a built-in USB port that connects to any power band. The bag is also spacious and can hold lunch, a laptop, and books, so there’s no excuse for not doing homework.

    Dimensions: 8″ x 11″ x 16″
    Colorways: USB (shown), gray, purple, and 29 others
    Weight: 1.4 lbs

    Pros:
    Unique color combinations
    Waterproof
    Lightweight

    Cons:
    Shoppers wish it came in larger sizes

    Himawari Travel Backpack

    $34

    Buy now

  • Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (13)

    Lululemon is a top choice among teens (just scroll through TikTok). The “cool” brand crafts quality bags that last through any weather and activities. If your child is heading to class or practice, make sure they have this New Crew backpack for the season. It has different compartments to store belongings, like a laptop or workout gear. There is also a secure pocket that holds a water bottle.

    Dimensions: 11.4″ x 7.3″ x 16.5″
    Colorways: White, traverse grey
    Weight: 1.3 lbs

    Pros:
    Only two colors availible
    Comfortable on shoulders and back
    Lightweight

    Cons:
    Straps aren’t padded

    Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L

    $98

    Buy now

  • Adidas Originals Trefoil 2.0 Backpack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (14)

    Don’t worry, there’s a backpack for your sporty teen, too. This original style fromAdidasholds all the back-to-school essentials. The bag has a Trefoil design on the front and a two-way zip closure that makes opening and closing the pack a breeze. It also includes a D ring for securing hats, keys, and school ID badges.

    Dimensions: 12″ x 6.5″ x 18.5″
    Colorways: 1
    Weight: 1.35 lbs

    Pros:
    Best for heavy items
    Has D ring for hooking keys or badges

    Cons:
    Some shoppers report zipper breaks easily

    Adidas Originals Trefoil 2.0 Backpack

    $67

    on Amazon.com

    Buy now

  • JanSport Cross Town Daypack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (15)

    For a more “grown-up option,” this Jansport classic should be at the top of your list this school season. It’s roomy, durable, water resistant, and easy to clean — an iconic backpack for a reason! And with 20 choices of colors and patterns, there’s a style for literally everyone’s taste.

    Dimensions: 6″ x 12.5″ x 17″
    Colorways: Black, red, orange, and 17 others
    Weight: 12 Ounces

    Pros:
    Padded shoulder straps
    Large interior

    Cons:
    No added designs

    Jansport Crosstown Backpack

    $31$36.0014% Off

    on Amazon.com

    Buy now

  • Herschel Nova-Backpack

    13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (16)

    Does your teen need a new backpack for the school year? If “yes,” head to Herschel. The classic brand has a wide range of bags that your teens will love. We love the Nova backpack. It has a mid-volume size that’s easy and casual to carry while remaining stylish. If your student needs a larger size, check out these classic styles for a larger fit.

    Dimensions: 16″H x 11″W x 5″D
    Colorways: Ash rose, port, paint pour, black crosshatch
    Weight: 1.2 lbs

    Pros:
    Interior and exterior pockets
    Fits 13″ laptops

    Cons:
    Can not be machine washed

    Herschel Nova-Backpack

    $50, was $80

    Buy now

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13 On-Trend Backpacks for Teens That Will Make Them Excited for School (2024)

FAQs

What is the most popular backpack for high school students? ›

Best for high school: The North Face Jester Backpack

They need a school backpack to keep up with them, and the legendary The North Face Jester is up for the job. In our space test, this backpack handily fit all of the high school materials with room to spare.

What are the trends in backpacks? ›

The key trends include tech-integrated smart backpacks, sustainable and eco-friendly materials, versatility in design for everyday use, rise of anti-theft features, fashion-forward aesthetics, integration of smart fabrics and features, and customization and personalization.

What size backpack for a 13 year old? ›

For middle schoolers, Backpacks designed for 11 – 14-year-olds should measure 18 to 20 inches in length with approximately 16-inch widths spanning up to 8-inch depths. Depending on which grade they attend and how many accessories they plan on taking along with them, having a couple of options between 25-35L is ideal.

What brand has the best school backpacks? ›

For even more bells and whistles, consider the Osprey Nebula 32. Or, for less expensive school backpack options that transition well between work and play, have a look at two other top performers from our testing: The North Face Jester and the Volher Travel.

What backpacks are cool for high school? ›

The aptly named "Gracula" makes mincing garlic a breeze.
  • High Sierra Loop Backpack. ...
  • JanSport Cool Backpack. ...
  • Shrradoo Travel Laptop Backpack. ...
  • Under Armour Hustle Backpack. ...
  • Herschel Little America Backpack. ...
  • The North Face Mini Borealis Backpack. ...
  • Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack. ...
  • Nike Brasilia Medium Backpack.
Dec 21, 2023

What is the senior backpack trend? ›

High school seniors across the country are donning a new type of item for their first day of school: a backpack typically used by young children. As seniors are starting their last year of high school, an emerging trend has them purchasing the backpacks as a way to reminisce on their childhood.

What is the most popular backpack colors? ›

While neutral colors like black, gray, and navy are classic backpack choices, they're not the only options. The "best" color backpack depends on your style, wardrobe, and intended use.

What is the oldest backpack? ›

Before its various terminologies began appearing in print, evidence of early backpacks was scarce. A contender for the earliest was found within the mummified remains of Ötzi in 3300BC.

How do I choose a high school backpack? ›

A backpack with a capacity of 25 to 30 litres is usually enough to carry the essentials for a normal school day. If you plan to carry extra stuff like sports equipment or a lunch box, it might be wise to choose a backpack with a larger capacity. Make sure your bag fits and is not too big or small for your body type.

Is it Bagpack or backpack? ›

The correct term is "backpack." "Bagpack" is not a standard word in the English language, and it is not widely used or recognized. A backpack is a type of bag that is carried on the back and is typically used to carry books, clothing, or other personal items.

What size backpack for high schoolers? ›

The Right Size

Choosing a backpack that is large enough to hold all school supplies but not too big to cause back or shoulder discomfort is crucial. Generally, a backpack with a capacity between 15 to 30 liters is recommended for high school students.

What is the most expensive backpack? ›

Louis Vuitton's Christopher Backpack is listed at $81,500.

The statistic states that Louis Vuitton's Christopher Backpack is priced at $81,500. This suggests that the backpack is considered highly valuable and has a significantly high price point compared to other backpacks in the market.

Do JanSport backpacks last long? ›

Trust is hard to come by, so for over 50 years JanSport designed packs that last, to go everywhere you go, see what you see, and carry what you need. We stand by the quality, reliability and durability of every pack we make, and since we've been doing that since 1967, that is a guarantee you can stand by.

Is JanSport still popular? ›

JanSport is the world's largest backpack maker, and together, JanSport and The North Face, also owned by VF Corporation, sell nearly half of all small backpacks sold in the United States.

What is a standard size backpack for high school? ›

A backpack with a capacity of 20-30 liters is usually a good choice for most high school students. This size should be large enough to carry their everyday items while still being comfortable to wear and not too bulky.

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