8 Best College Backpacks 2026 in the United States

The Fjallraven Women's Skule 28 Backpack is a solid choice for college students. With a capacity of 28 liters, it offers ample space to carry your books, notebooks, and other essentials. The dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment ensures your device is securely stored and easily accessible, which is essential for college life. The backpack is made from durable canvas material, which suggests it can withstand daily wear and tear. However, at 750 grams, it is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to carry around campus all day long. The shoulder straps add to the comfort, distributing weight evenly across your shoulders.

The backpack includes multiple pockets, both zippered and mesh, which help keep your items organized. Exterior zip pockets are handy for quick access to smaller items like your phone or keys. Style-wise, it is simple and versatile, fitting well with most outfits. On the downside, the design might be too basic for those who prefer more vibrant or unique styles. Additionally, while the material is durable, canvas might not be as water-resistant as some other materials, so you might need to be cautious in heavy rain.

In terms of customer feedback, it has a high rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 83 reviews, indicating that most users are very satisfied with their purchase. If you are looking for a reliable and comfortable college backpack with good organizational features, this Fjallraven backpack is a great option.

The Fjallraven Kånken in Khaki Dust is a lightweight and stylish backpack that is popular for everyday use, including college. It offers a compact 16-liter capacity, which is enough for carrying basic essentials but might feel small if you need to pack lots of books or larger items. It doesn’t have a dedicated laptop compartment, a key feature many college students look for to protect their devices. However, its main compartment opens fully with a zipper, making it easy to access your belongings. The backpack is made from sturdy Vinylon fabric, known for being durable and water-resistant, so it can handle daily wear and weather reasonably well. Comfort-wise, the simple shoulder straps are not heavily padded, so it may not be the best choice for long days carrying heavy loads. The removable seat cushion is a unique bonus, useful if you need a quick place to sit outside.

Organization is basic—with just a small front pocket and the main compartment—which means less separation for smaller items, so you might need extra pouches to keep things tidy. Style and design are classic and minimal, appealing if you prefer a clean, timeless look. This makes the Kånken an excellent option for students seeking a durable, lightweight, and fashionable backpack for light to moderate carrying, though it may not suit those needing a laptop sleeve or more internal organization.

The Nike Hayward 2.0 Backpack is designed for both men and women and provides ample space with a total capacity of 26 liters. This size is sufficient for carrying books, notebooks, and other college essentials, making it a good fit for college students. It features a durable polyester shell with a dense weave that promises lasting durability, which is essential for daily use. The adjustable and padded shoulder straps ensure comfort, even when the backpack is fully loaded, enhancing the ergonomic experience. Additionally, the top haul loop is a convenient feature for an alternative carrying option or for stowing the backpack away when not in use.

However, one notable drawback is the absence of a dedicated laptop compartment, which might be a concern for students who need to carry their laptops regularly. The backpack excels in organization with multiple small pockets for extra-small item storage, helping keep things tidy and easy to find. In terms of style, the simple yet athletic design with its new graphic makes it a visually appealing choice for students.

Despite the lack of a specific laptop compartment, its build and functionality make it a reliable and stylish option for college use.