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10 Best Backpacks 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack, Black

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,455
Capacity
Material
Comfort

Most important from
2824 reviews

Capacity
The backpack excels as a light, functional daypack perfect for flights and hikes, with mesh side pockets that allow easy access to large water bottles without struggle.
Material
Durable materials and zippers combine to offer security, preventing unnoticed openings in crowded places.
Comfort
Chest and hip straps provide strong support, enhancing comfort during extended wear.
Weight
The backpack excels as a light, functional daypack perfect for flights and hikes, with mesh side pockets that allow easy access to large water bottles without struggle.
Size and Fit
Despite its slim profile, the pack offers enough protection for a laptop without adding bulk.
Durability
Durable materials and zippers combine to offer security, preventing unnoticed openings in crowded places.

The Osprey Daylite Plus is a well-designed commuter backpack that suits everyday use, especially for casual day trips or light commuting. It has a moderate capacity with a large panel loading main compartment, making it easy to access and organize your belongings. The backpack also features an internal hydration sleeve, which is handy if you carry a water reservoir for longer outings. Weighing just about 1.29 pounds, it is lightweight and comfortable to carry, which is great for people who don’t want to feel weighed down. The size (roughly 8 x 10 x 17 inches) fits most users comfortably without being too bulky.

Osprey is known for durable materials, so you can expect this backpack to hold up well over time. The style is simple and practical in black, making it versatile for different settings. On the downside, while it has good organization options, it might not have enough compartments for those who prefer very detailed organization or need extra space for bulky items. Also, it’s best suited for light to moderate loads rather than heavy-duty use or large capacity needs.

This backpack is ideal if you want a reliable, stylish, and comfortable everyday pack that can handle daily commutes, casual outings, or short adventures without fuss.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,455
Capacity
Material
Comfort

Most important from
2824 reviews

Capacity
The backpack excels as a light, functional daypack perfect for flights and hikes, with mesh side pockets that allow easy access to large water bottles without struggle.
Material
Durable materials and zippers combine to offer security, preventing unnoticed openings in crowded places.
Comfort
Chest and hip straps provide strong support, enhancing comfort during extended wear.
Weight
The backpack excels as a light, functional daypack perfect for flights and hikes, with mesh side pockets that allow easy access to large water bottles without struggle.
Size and Fit
Despite its slim profile, the pack offers enough protection for a laptop without adding bulk.
Durability
Durable materials and zippers combine to offer security, preventing unnoticed openings in crowded places.
#2

Nike Hayward 2.0 Backpack, for Women and Men with Polyester Shell & Adjustable Straps, Black/Black/White

Rating
9.8
Capacity
Durability
Weight

Most important from
6563 reviews

Capacity
Offers plenty of space for school books and daily essentials without feeling bulky.
Durability
Stands out for its durability and solid construction, handling everyday use with ease.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry throughout the day.
Style and Design
Simple, sporty style with a bold logo that appeals to younger users.
Comfort
Padded, adjustable shoulder straps provide a customizable and comfortable fit.
other
Ideal for school or casual outings, balancing functionality with a sleek look.

The Nike Hayward 2.0 Backpack offers a solid choice for everyday use, whether for school, light hiking, or casual outings. Its 26-liter capacity provides enough space to carry essentials without being bulky. The backpack’s polyester shell is tightly woven, which helps with durability and resisting wear over time. It has a simple but sporty design, highlighted by elastic straps that add an athletic look without sacrificing function. Comfort is addressed with padded, adjustable shoulder straps that let you customize the fit, making it easier to carry for longer periods.

Inside, there is one large main compartment for bigger items and smaller pockets for organizing smaller belongings, though it doesn’t have specialized sections for laptops or tech gear. Weighing just under 15 ounces, it is lightweight, which is great if you want to avoid extra load. The size is compact, approximately 7 by 15 inches, suitable for adults but might feel a bit small if you need to carry many bulky items. A top haul loop adds convenience for quick grabs or hanging the backpack when not in use.

The bag is well-built and comfortable, but its simple compartment layout and lack of advanced features may not meet the needs of those wanting more organization or tech protection. It is well suited for those looking for a durable, lightweight, and stylish backpack for everyday activities rather than heavy-duty hiking or specialized gear transport.

Rating
9.8
Capacity
Durability
Weight

Most important from
6563 reviews

Capacity
Offers plenty of space for school books and daily essentials without feeling bulky.
Durability
Stands out for its durability and solid construction, handling everyday use with ease.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry throughout the day.
Style and Design
Simple, sporty style with a bold logo that appeals to younger users.
Comfort
Padded, adjustable shoulder straps provide a customizable and comfortable fit.
other
Ideal for school or casual outings, balancing functionality with a sleek look.
#3

Under Armour Unisex-Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack , Black (001)/Silver , One Size Fits All

Rating
9.7
Capacity
Material
Comfort

Most important from
16346 reviews

Capacity
The backpack offers a roomy interior that's slightly larger than standard, comfortably holding school books and daily essentials.
Material
The water-resistant polyester material with UA Storm technology effectively protects belongings from wet weather.
Comfort
Thickly stitched, well-padded shoulder straps contribute to excellent comfort during extended wear.
Compartments and Organization
The dedicated shoe compartment is a standout feature, perfect for storing boots or shoes separately and keeping the bag organized.
Weight
Its lightweight design combined with durable construction makes it a dependable choice for everyday use.
Durability
Its lightweight design combined with durable construction makes it a dependable choice for everyday use.
Style and Design
The simple black and grey color scheme delivers a versatile style suitable for both casual and sporty looks.

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 backpack is a solid choice for anyone looking for a dependable everyday bag. It offers a good capacity with multiple compartments including a soft-lined laptop sleeve that fits up to a 15-inch laptop, a separate water-resistant front pocket for valuables, and a large bottom pocket ideal for shoes or laundry. Made from 100% polyester with UA Storm technology, the backpack provides excellent water resistance to protect your belongings in wet weather.

Comfort-wise, it’s designed with a breathable, padded back panel and adjustable HeatGear shoulder straps, making it comfortable for extended wear. The size is fairly standard at about 18.5 inches tall, which should fit most people well without being bulky. It’s also relatively lightweight considering its durability and storage options. Style-wise, the black and silver color scheme is simple and versatile, suitable for both casual and sporty looks.

On the downside, it’s a one-size-fits-all design, which might not be perfect for very small or very tall users who need a more tailored fit. Also, while the polyester material is durable and water-resistant, it might not be as rugged as some heavier-duty backpacks designed for outdoor adventures. This backpack is ideal for students, commuters, or anyone needing a practical, comfortable bag for daily use with decent organizational features and weather protection.

Rating
9.7
Capacity
Material
Comfort

Most important from
16346 reviews

Capacity
The backpack offers a roomy interior that's slightly larger than standard, comfortably holding school books and daily essentials.
Material
The water-resistant polyester material with UA Storm technology effectively protects belongings from wet weather.
Comfort
Thickly stitched, well-padded shoulder straps contribute to excellent comfort during extended wear.
Compartments and Organization
The dedicated shoe compartment is a standout feature, perfect for storing boots or shoes separately and keeping the bag organized.
Weight
Its lightweight design combined with durable construction makes it a dependable choice for everyday use.
Durability
Its lightweight design combined with durable construction makes it a dependable choice for everyday use.
Style and Design
The simple black and grey color scheme delivers a versatile style suitable for both casual and sporty looks.

Buying Guide for the Best Backpacks

Choosing the right backpack can make a significant difference in your comfort and convenience, whether you're using it for school, work, travel, or outdoor adventures. The key is to find a backpack that fits your needs, is comfortable to wear, and is durable enough to withstand regular use. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting a backpack, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of space inside the backpack, usually measured in liters. This spec is important because it determines how much you can carry. For everyday use, a backpack with a capacity of 15-30 liters is typically sufficient. For travel or hiking, you might need a larger capacity, ranging from 30-50 liters or more. Consider what you will be carrying regularly and choose a capacity that accommodates those items without being too bulky.
MaterialThe material of the backpack affects its durability, weight, and water resistance. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and canvas. Nylon and polyester are lightweight and often water-resistant, making them good choices for outdoor use. Canvas is heavier but very durable and has a classic look. If you need a backpack for rugged use or in wet conditions, look for water-resistant or waterproof materials.
ComfortComfort is crucial, especially if you plan to carry the backpack for extended periods. Look for features like padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a waist or chest strap to help distribute weight evenly. Adjustable straps are also important to ensure a good fit. Try the backpack on, if possible, to see how it feels when loaded with weight similar to what you will be carrying.
Compartments and OrganizationThe number and type of compartments can greatly affect how you organize your belongings. Some backpacks have a single large compartment, while others have multiple pockets, including specialized ones for laptops, tablets, water bottles, and other items. Think about what you need to carry and how you prefer to organize your things. A backpack with multiple compartments can help keep your items accessible and organized.
WeightThe weight of the backpack itself is important, especially if you will be carrying it for long periods. A lightweight backpack can reduce the overall load you have to carry. However, lighter materials may be less durable, so find a balance that works for your needs. If you need a durable backpack for heavy use, a slightly heavier model might be worth the extra weight.
Size and FitThe size and fit of the backpack should match your body size and shape. A backpack that is too large or too small can be uncomfortable and may not distribute weight properly. Look for backpacks that come in different sizes or have adjustable features to ensure a good fit. Measure your torso length and compare it to the backpack's dimensions to find the right size for you.
DurabilityDurability is important if you plan to use the backpack frequently or in tough conditions. Check the quality of the stitching, zippers, and buckles. Reinforced seams and heavy-duty zippers can extend the life of the backpack. Consider the reputation of the brand and read reviews to get an idea of how well the backpack holds up over time.
Style and DesignWhile functionality is key, the style and design of the backpack are also important for many people. Backpacks come in a variety of colors, patterns, and designs. Choose one that fits your personal style and the context in which you will be using it. For professional settings, a sleek, minimalist design might be best, while for casual or outdoor use, you might prefer something more colorful or rugged.

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