Best backpacks for school in 2023

By Rory Mellon
last updated

These are the best backpack deals for school students

A school backpack in a field
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
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Finding the best backpacks for school is a serious mission for many parents and students, so get ahead of the game and make your pick now to avoid last-minute stress. 

A good backpack can safeguard your laptop, textbooks, smartphone, and just about anything you place inside it. It should also be rugged enough to withstand extreme weather and everyday wear and tear that is bound to happen between classes.

The best school backpacks can also have a life outside of the classroom, and be used on day trips, outdoor excursions or even for travel. So whether you're heading to summer classes later this year or just need an all-purpose backpack, here are our picks for the best backpacks for school.

Best backpacks for school 

Best backpacks for school — under $30

Trail Maker Backpack: was $19 now $9 @ Amazon

Trail Maker Backpack: was $19 now $9 @ Amazon
Need a backpack for college, but don't want to invest too much? The Trail Maker Backpack is just what you're looking for. Priced at $10, it's inexpensive yet features everything you could want in a budget backpack like a roomy main compartment, double zippers, and an outer front pocket. 

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Nike Youth Gymsack: was $35 now $22 @ Amazon

Nike Youth Gymsack: was $35 now $22 @ Amazon
Small and light, the Nike Gymsack is ideal for those times you need to carry clothes or wide objects. There are no special compartments or zippers. Instead, the backpack features a drawcord for easy access to your items. 

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Best backpacks for school — $60+

adidas Utility Team Backpack: was $65 now $59 @ Amazon

adidas Utility Team Backpack: was $65 now $59 @ Amazon
From game day to the classroom, the adidas Utility Team Backpack is perfect for students who practice sports. The large backpack provides tons of space for books, clothes, and more.

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The North Face Jester Backpack: now $68 @ Amazon

The North Face Jester Backpack: now $68 @ Amazon
The North Face Jester backpack is the ideal campus backpack. It has a 30 liter capacity, a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, and a front organization pocket with mesh water bottle holders. 

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Travelon Signature Slim Backpack: $75 @ Kohl's

Travelon Signature Slim Backpack: $75 @ Kohl's
If you're after a backpack that is a heavy on the style, then this Travelon Signature Slim Backpack could be the perfect pick. It doesn't favour looks over function either with two interior zippered wall pockets, a main compartment that can easily fit a tablet or slim laptop and a slash pocket that offers quick access. 

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The North Face Pivoter Backpack: $84 @ Amazon

The North Face Pivoter Backpack: $84 @ Amazon
The 27-liter North Face Pivoter Backpack features a roomy main compartment with a padded laptop sleep. The front compartment has a padded tablet sleeve along with additional organizational pockets. It's available in various colors at Amazon.

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Rory Mellon
Rory Mellon
Deals Editor

Rory is a Deals Editor at Tom’s Guide based in the UK. He covers a wide range of topics but with a particular focus on deals, gaming and streaming. When he’s not scouring retailers for PS5 restock or writing hot takes on the latest gaming hardware and streaming shows, he can be found attending music festivals and being thoroughly disappointed by his terrible football team.