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13 Best Kids Backpacks for School of 2024

Updated
From kindergarten through high school, we've got your kid's back.

A good backpack is essential for your kid’s childhood, and it’s a purchase that often marks one of their first steps to independence. But it can be hard to determine which features are useful and which ones just take up space. And while all backpacks look sturdy and great on the shelf, many are not built to last.

We’re here to help. We’ve examined dozens of backpacks, examining features, comparing fabrics, and testing the stitching. We’ve done the heavy lifting to ensure you get a backpack that will hold up to your child’s handling and stay strong throughout the school year — or longer.

Along with our own observations, we’ve studied reviews from hundreds of parents and have come up with 13 of the best kids backpacks on the market. Read our reviews to find the best fit for your kids.

Our Top Picks

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Most Useful Backpack: Dakine Kids Grom Backpack
  • Versatile design
  • Durable materials
  • Many color and pattern options
Best for Sporty Kids: Adidas Prime 6 Backpack
  • Reflective striping for safety
  • Numerous pockets
  • Lifetime warranty
Most Eco-Friendly Backpack : Mochila Military Small Backpack
  • Durable, military-style material
  • Safety features
  • Great ease of use
Most Practical Backpack: Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack
  • Practical for school and work
  • Waterproof zipper
  • Laptop sleeve gives protection for valuables
The Versatility Award: Mountaintop Camping Backpack
  • Padded shoulder straps
  • Water-resistant fabric
  • Only weighs 0.73 pounds
Best Design: Kipling Luggage Sanaa Backpack
  • Small, sleek wheels for easy mobility
  • Water-resistant and durable material
  • Great for children of all ages
Sleekest Design : Herschel Retreat Backpack
  • Lightweight
  • Stylish
  • Drawcord closure
Safest Backpack: Oscaurt Anti-Theft Backpack
  • Many safety features
  • Affordable price
  • Multiple compartments
Best Multipurpose Backpack: JanSport SuperBreak Backpack
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Sufficient back padding
  • More than 30 colors
Most Durable: The North Face Court Jester
  • Sternum strap
  • Water-resistant
  • Bungee strap to carry extras


Product Reviews

Let’s look at our shortlist of the 13 best kids backpacks.

Dakine Kids Grom Backpack

Most Useful Kids Backpack

Dakine is a well-known brand, and rightfully so. They design their backpacks to maximize practicality and durability. This affordably-priced backpack could see your kid throughout the entire school year, whatever may come.

This backpack is designed with students in mind. It has multiple pockets and compartments for school essentials.

It has seven color options to choose from and a limited lifetime warranty.

Pros

  • Extremely versatile.
  • Durable material.
  • Many designs to choose from.

Cons

  • May be too big and bulky for younger kids.

Product Specs

Warranty Limited lifetime
Dimensions 12.2 inches (L) by 3.7 inches (W) by 16.5 inches (H)
Age recommendation Middle-school to college
Waterproof No
Material Polyester

Our Ratings

Design
5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Adidas Prime 6 Backpack

Best Backpack for a Sporty Kid

While Adidas is mainly known for its sports gear, it has created this trendy backpack for your child’s needs. With many color options and fresh designs, your kid will be well-equipped to strut the school halls.

This backpack delivers practicality and ease. It has a padded laptop pocket, a main internal compartment, and five outside pockets.

The exterior pockets benefit the user by helping with weight distribution. The designers have considered safety and have incorporated external reflective detailing.

It also has LoadSpring shoulder straps and a sporty silhouette.

Pros

  • Reflective detailing for safety.
  • Numerous pockets for organization.
  • Lifetime warranty.
  • Durable.

Cons

  • Lacks compression straps.

Product Specs

Warranty Lifetime warranty
Dimensions 14.50 inches (L) by 14.00 inches (W) by 20.50 inches (H)
Age recommendation Middle school to college
Waterproof Water-resistant
Material Polyester

Our Ratings

Design
5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Comfort
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Mochila Military Small Backpack

Most Eco-Friendly Kids Backpack

This is an efficient, durable, and cool backpack, all at the same time.

With its adjustable drawstring closure and two hidden pockets, this backpack is safe and easy to use. To secure the bag, pull the drawstring closed and then pull the second closure flap over the top. This helps to prevent theft.

The backpack is well-kitted with multiple compartments inside and out, so it has enough room for items such as iPads, books, pens, and other essentials. It is a good option for school.

The designers have chosen to give the backpack a military-style look with its army green color and simplistic design.

It’s constructed with Oxford Waterproof Fabric material, so if your youngster is heading out on a school camping trip or is a budding explorer, this could be a good choice for them.

Pros

  • Durable, military-style material.
  • Safety features.
  • Great ease of use.

Cons

  • Lacks chest or compression straps.

Product Specs

Warranty Yes
Dimensions 11.8 inches (L) by 7 inches (W) by 11.8 inches (H)
Age recommendation 12 and up
Waterproof Water-resistant
Material Oxford material

Our Ratings

Design
5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack

Most Practical Kids Backpack

Herschel is a well-known brand for a good reason. Through the years, their backpacks have proven to be reliable, durable, and practical.

Though the price may seem high, this backpack comes in a variety of colors and is well-equipped for your kid to breeze through the school hallways, not only in style but in comfort too.

With dimensions of 17.5 inches by 11.75 inches, this backpack comes with multiple inside pockets and compartments and a 15-inch laptop sleeve. It’s ideal for books, gadgets, pencil cases, and everything else.

Herschel also equips it with waterproof zippers and a padded fleece inner. This backpack is durable and will protect your kid’s valuables.

Pros

  • Practical for school and work.
  • Laptop sleeve gives protection for valuables.
  • Waterproof zipper.
  • Choose from various materials and colors.

Cons

  • High price.
  • Does not come with an external water bottle compartment.

Product Specs

Warranty Lifetime warranty
Dimensions 11.7 inches (L) by 6 inches (W) by 17.5 inches (H)
Age recommendation Grade school and high school kids
Waterproof Waterproof zipper detail
Material Polyester, synthetic leather

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Mountaintop Childrens Camping Backpack

The Versatility Award

Does your kid have a love for the outdoors? A desire to explore the wilderness? Or do they love to carry a million and one things to school?

This versatile backpack will take care of it all. Its multipurpose design makes it a good option for the kid who does everything.

The main compartment offers maximum space, while the array of pockets and compartments makes for efficient organization.

It boasts two front mesh pockets for little trinkets and essentials. The interior is fitted with a laptop compartment and a side pocket for accessible water bottle storage.

This backpack isn’t too big or small. You won’t have to worry about your child dragging a heavy load around.

Pros

  • Useful compartments to organize belongings.
  • Has a laptop pocket and a built-in name tag.
  • Mesh and padded areas at the back enable air circulation.
  • Padded shoulder straps minimize back pain and strain.
  • Variety of colors to choose from.

Cons

  • Won’t fit an A4 folder.
  • Not the cheapest option.

Product Specs

Warranty Standard
Dimensions 9.4 inches (L) by 6.3 inches (W) by 14.2 inches (H)
Age recommendation 3 to 6 years old
Waterproof Yes
Material Polyester

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Kipling Luggage Sanaa Wheeled Backpack

Kids Backpack with the Best Design

Kipling has created an easy-to-use backpack that will do the heavy lifting for you. It’s equipped with standard backpack straps and rolling wheels.

If the owner has many books to carry or suffers from back discomfort, they can choose to wheel their backpack through the school halls.

This innovative design removes the possibility of shoulder and back pain while letting the user look cool.

It has water-resistant crinkle nylon, shoulder pads, and a telescopic handle.

The designers also had convenience and functionality in mind. They have installed mesh pockets for water bottle storage and an exterior flap pocket for easy access to essentials.

The array of compartments allows for an organized backpack to get your child through their day.

Pros

  • Small, sleek wheels for easy mobility.
  • Water-resistant and durable material.
  • Great for children of all ages.

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • Might be a trip hazard in the school hallways.

Product Specs

Warranty One year
Dimensions 12.5 inches (L) by 10.8 inches (W) by 18.5 inches (H)
Age recommendation All ages
Waterproof Water-resistant
Material Nylon

Our Ratings

Design
5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Herschel Retreat Backpack

Kids Backpack with the Sleekest Design

Are you looking for a lightweight, practical backpack that holds a lot? This Herschel Retreat pick may be a good choice for you. This modern version of a traditional style is effortlessly cool and functional.

With its lightweight design using a drawstring closure and magnetic fastenings, it handles practicality and security subtly.

This pack also comes equipped with padded shoulders for a comfortable fit.

The backpack is fitted with a 15-inch laptop sleeve and is spacious inside.

Whether your kid has to haul their gym clothes or instrument to class or must have their laptop on them, this backpack will suffice.

Pros

  • Durable fabric.
  • Stylish design.
  • Padded shoulders for extra comfort.

Cons

  • Not waterproof.
  • Pricey.

Product Specs

Warranty Standard warranty
Dimensions 12 inches (L) by 5.75 inches (W) by 17 inches (H)
Age recommendation Middle-school to college
Waterproof No
Material Polyester, fleece

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Oscaurt Anti-theft Travel Backpack

Best Kids Backpack for the Modern World

Are you looking for a backpack to suit your kid’s daily adventures in the modern world? Oscaurt’s innovative backpack is fitted with a portable USB charging cable, so it may be a good choice.

For mature kids who may often be traveling, this backpack is fitted with several safety designs, including a hidden zipper and pocket, anti-cut fabric, and reflective detailing, which is great for keeping your kid and their valuables safe.

Pros

  • Multiple safety features.
  • Waterproof fabric keeps belongings dry in any weather.
  • Various organizational compartments.
  • Affordable price.

Cons

  • May be too bulky for younger kids.

Product Specs

Warranty No
Dimensions 16.93 inches (L) by 4.92 inches (W) by 11.02 inches (H)
Age recommendation All ages
Waterproof Yes
Material Polyester

Our Ratings

Design
5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

JanSport SuperBreak Backpack

Best Multipurpose Kids Backpack

This JanSport backpack is affordable and an excellent option for any kid.

The key is in its name: SuperBreak. Its main selling point is its 600 Denier polyester material. This fabric is industrious and isn’t likely to fall apart any time soon.

If your kid has a hectic schedule darting from school to after-school clubs or trips, JanSport’s SuperBreak backpack will support them through this.

The back panel and straps are padded, boosting your kid’s comfort. The AAOS recommends these features for better weight distribution of the backpack on the back (1).

Pros

  • Lifetime warranty.
  • Sufficient back padding.
  • More than 30 colors.
  • Durable and long-lasting.

Cons

  • The inside has only one compartment.
  • No padding or protection for laptops.

Product Specs

Warranty Lifetime warranty
Dimensions 13 inches (L) by 8.5 inches (W) by 16.7 inches (H)
Age recommendation Grade school ages
Waterproof Water-resistant
Material Polyester

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Comfort
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

The North Face Kids Court Jester Bacckpack

Most Durable Kids Backpack

While The North Face is best known for its durable outdoor gear, the brand has created an excellent backpack for kids.

Their creation is eye-catching and comes in a selection of colors, such as lavender fog, shady blue, and wasabi.

This backpack will help your child be properly equipped for school or days out adventuring.

Constructed with water-resistant recycled polyester, the contents of this backpack are protected through thick and thin. Its well-padded back panel aids comfort, and its reflective loop is an added safety feature.

With plenty of room for carrying many possessions, The North Face has still designed this backpack to remain a suitable size for small kids.

Pros

  • Durable, water-resistant material.
  • Hasa chest strap for better weight distribution.
  • Front bungee strap to hold extra items like a sweater or jacket.
  • Unique color options.

Cons

  • Limited pockets.
  • It may not stay upright when packed full.

Product Specs

Warranty Lifetime Guarantee and Free Returns
Dimensions 11.25 inches (L) by 6.5 inches (W) by 17.1 inches (H)
Age recommendation Eight years and up
Waterproof Water-resistant
Material Recycled polyester

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Size
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Fjallraven High Coast Trail 20 Backpack

Safest Kids Backpack

The Fjallraven brand was founded by a Swedish entrepreneur who sought to create a company specializing in outdoor equipment. This desire stemmed from his own bad experiences with backpacks as a kid. This backpack has been designed with practicality, safety, and comfort in mind.

This pick belongs to the High Coast range of the brand, which is named after the founder’s hometown. The area consists of waterways and mountains — this backpack has that in mind.

It’s constructed with recycled polyester, which guarantees durability. It also resists moisture with its G-1000 eco-fabric. This backpack is a safe option for your child. It contains a hidden security pocket with a key clip and whistle.

This backpack is going to have a long life. Its moisture-resistance and safety features will see your kid through all kinds of adventures.

Pros

  • Recycled moisture-proof material.
  • Ergonomic design for comfort.
  • Breathable mesh back panel.

Cons

  • The design may not look too appealing for kids.

Product Specs

Warranty Limited lifetime warranty
Dimensions 9 inches (L) by 5 inches (W) by 16 inches (H)
Age recommendation 6 to 9 years
Waterproof Moisture-resistant
Material Recycled polyester and organic cotton

Our Ratings

Design
3.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Nike Brasilia Just Do It Mini Backpack

Coolest Kids Backpack

Is your child into big brand names? If the answer is yes, this Nike Brasilia mini backpack may be the best option to keep you both happy.

Nike has kept its design simple for easy use while still creating a backpack great for everyday carrying.

This backpack looks cool, sporting the famous brand name, and it comes in a few color choices. Its unique look will keep the wearer feeling stylish in the hallways.

This design boasts a generous amount of space for water bottles, lunch boxes, books, and more. The storage consists of the main compartment and mesh side pockets.

The bag is also fitted with adjustable shoulder straps and a padded back to prevent the risk of spinal injury and back pain.

Pros

  • Affordable for a name-brand product.
  • Several practical pockets and compartments.
  • Safe for your kid’s back.

Cons

  • Only a few color choices.

Product Specs

Warranty Information not available
Dimensions 11 inches (L) by 1.2 inches (W) by 12 inches (H)
Age recommendation All ages
Waterproof Everyday waterproof
Material Information not available

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

AmazonBasics Classic School Backpack

Most Affordable Kids Backpack

This is a good bet if your kid needs a simple, practical bag to see them through a typical school day or outing.

Its design is lightweight and easy to carry. The shoulder straps are adjustable and padded for extra safety and comfort.

Although it’s a simple design, this backpack has a spacious main compartment fitted with a zippered pocket, two water-bottle pockets, and a small zipped compartment on the front exterior, great for necessary school equipment.

Pros

  • Inexpensive model — under $20.
  • Lightweight fabrics are easy on the back.
  • Has several storage compartments.

Cons

  • Does not appear to be waterproof.
  • Not as durable as some other brands.

Product Specs

Warranty One year
Dimensions 12.2 inches (L) by 6 inches (W) by 15.8 inches (H)
Age recommendation Grade-school ages
Waterproof No
Material Polyester

Our Ratings

Design
3 / 5
Durability
3 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Comfort
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.25 / 5

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Warranty Dimensions Age recommendation Waterproof Material
Dakine Grom Backpack Useful Standard 12.2 x 3.7 x 16.5″ Middle-school – college No Polyester
Adidas Prime 6 Backpack Sporty Kid Lifetime 12.50″ x 8″ x 20.25″ Middle school – college Water-resistant Polyester
Mochila Military Backpack Eco-Friendly Yes 11.8″ x 7 x 11.8″ 12 and up Water-resistant Polyester material
Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack Practical Backpack Lifetime 11.7″ x 6″ x 17.5″ Grade school, high school kids Waterproof zipper detail Polyester, synthetic leather
Mountaintop Camping Backpack Versatility Award Standard 9.4″ x 6.3″ x 14.2″ 3 to 6 years Water-resistant Polyester
Kipling Luggage Sanaa Backpack Best Design One year 12.5″ x 10.8″ x 18.5″ All ages Water-resistant Nylon
Herschel Retreat Backpack Sleekest Design Standard 12″ x 5.75″ x 17″ Middle-school – college No Polyester, fleece
Oscaurt Travel Backpack Modern World No 11.02″ x 4.92″ x 16.93″ All ages Yes Polyester
JanSport SuperBreak Backpack Multipurpose Lifetime 13″ x 8.5″ x 16.7″ Grade school ages Water-resistant Polyester
North Face Court Jester Most Durable Lifetime 11.25″ x 6.5″ x 17.1″ 8 years and up Water-resistant Recycled polyester
Fjallraven High Coast Trail 20 Safest Not specified 9″ x 5″ x 16″ 6 – 9 years Yes Recycled polyester, organic cotton
Nike Brasilia Mini Backpack Coolest N/A 11″ x 1.2″ x 12″ All ages Not specified N/A
AmazonBasics School Backpack Most Affordable One year 12.2″ x 6″ x 15.8″ Grade-school ages No Polyester

How to Choose a Backpack for Kids

Safety

When choosing the best kids backpacks, it’s easy to get lost in the array of colors and designs available. Your first instinct will be to go for the most eye-catching option or the one that has your child’s favorite cartoon character on it.

What you should be focusing on is finding a backpack that will offer the most benefits to your child’s health and safety.

A backpack with thin or non-adjustable straps won’t only be uncomfortable for your child — it may lead to nerve and circulation issues. This could present problems for a child, such as numbness, tingling sensations, or general weakness (2).

Be sure to opt for a backpack designed with wide, padded, secure straps. Many are also made with compression straps and chest and waist fastenings to distribute weight.

If possible, select a backpack with an identification tag. That will reduce the risk of theft or mix-ups.

A good backpack should also include reflective material. Being visible in the dark minimizes the risk of accidents.

Durability

One of the most important things to look for when purchasing a backpack is its robustness. The items going into it need to be protected and secure.

Ensure you pick out a durable backpack and avoid those made from inferior materials.

Compartments inside the backpack are essential to properly organize your child’s belongings and ensure that nothing valuable is damaged.

Select a machine-washable backpack. Then it can easily be cleaned in case of any spills — common if you have messy kids.

Making informed choices like this will save you money in the long run.

Suitability

A backpack that suits your child’s shape, height, and size is crucial. A child’s backpack, when fully stuffed, should weigh no more than 5% to 10% of their body weight. This will prevent the backpack from pulling the child down or placing an excessive strain on their back.

Busy kids may be involved in a lot of extracurriculars. This will result in them often having to lug around different kinds of clothes or equipment.

It’s wise to invest in a backpack that will cater to this. Outer mesh pockets are great for carrying a water bottle to their after-school club. It avoids leaks on school books or clothes, which stay safe and dry inside the backpack.

Additionally, a backpack with a secure and proper laptop compartment will protect the item and aid in proper weight distribution when carrying these heavy devices.


FAQs

What Size Backpack is Best For Kids?

The best backpack size for kids is one that fits their torso length and can comfortably hold their school supplies without being oversized.

Usually, a 12-inch backpack is one of the most common sizes for kids who are in grade school. Older junior high and high school kids usually need larger backpacks.

How Often Should You Replace Your Backpack?

Replace a kid’s backpack every one to two years on average or when it shows signs of wear and tear, outgrows its size, or the child’s needs change.

What is the Best Backpack Brand For Kids?

Brands like Jansport, Herschel, and Dakine are popular for their durable, functional, and kid-friendly backpacks. These brands tend to be more affordable than ones like Nike and ADIDAS, too.

How Do You Tell If a Backpack is Good Quality?

A good quality backpack has sturdy, comfortable straps, durable fabric, strong zippers, and adequate compartments for organization.

Are Rolling Backpacks Better For Kids?

Rolling backpacks are great for kids who carry heavy loads, though they may be cumbersome on stairs or uneven surfaces.

Should You Put Your Child’s Name On Their Backpack?

It’s best to put your child’s name inside the backpack rather than outside to protect their privacy and safety.

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Headshot of Shannon Serpette

Edited by

Shannon Serpette

Shannon Serpette is an award-winning writer and editor, who regularly contributes to various newspapers, magazines, and websites. Shannon has been featured on Insider, Fatherly, SheKnows, and other high profile publications. As a mother of two, she loves to write about parenting issues and is dedicated to educating other parents at every stage of their child's development.