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10 Best College 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

Under Armour Unisex-Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack , Academy Blue (408)/Silver , One Size Fits All

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,218
Size and Capacity
Laptop Compartment
Comfort and Ergonomics

Most important from
20141 reviews

Size and Capacity
Its size is just right for everyday needs, comfortably fitting a laptop and plenty of gear.
Laptop Compartment
Multiple pockets provide good organization, including water bottle holders that fit large bottles and a soft laptop sleeve that protects devices effectively.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Adjustable, padded straps make carrying the backpack comfortable even over long distances.
Durability and Material
The backpack holds up really well and maintains its quality even with frequent use.
Organization and Pockets
Multiple pockets provide good organization, including water bottle holders that fit large bottles and a soft laptop sleeve that protects devices effectively.
Style and Design
The sporty, unisex design matches casual and athletic styles well, making it a versatile choice for students.

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is a solid choice for college students who need a dependable, all-around backpack. Its size is practical, fitting a laptop up to 15 inches comfortably in a soft-lined sleeve, which helps protect your device during daily use. The backpack is made from tough 100% polyester with UA Storm technology that resists water, so it can handle light rain or spills without soaking through. Comfort is addressed well with breathable padded back panels and adjustable shoulder straps that use HeatGear fabric to reduce sweat. This makes it easier to carry even when the backpack is full.

For organization, it has a water-repellent front pocket for valuables and a large shoe or laundry compartment at the bottom, which is handy for gym clothes or dirty shoes. However, it doesn’t have a huge number of compartments, so if you carry a lot of small items or need more dividers, you might find it a bit limited. The style is sporty and unisex, fitting well with casual or athletic looks but might not suit those wanting a more formal or minimalist design.

This durable and comfortable backpack covers the essentials well, especially for students who value practicality and protection for their laptop.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,218
Size and Capacity
Laptop Compartment
Comfort and Ergonomics

Most important from
20141 reviews

Size and Capacity
Its size is just right for everyday needs, comfortably fitting a laptop and plenty of gear.
Laptop Compartment
Multiple pockets provide good organization, including water bottle holders that fit large bottles and a soft laptop sleeve that protects devices effectively.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Adjustable, padded straps make carrying the backpack comfortable even over long distances.
Durability and Material
The backpack holds up really well and maintains its quality even with frequent use.
Organization and Pockets
Multiple pockets provide good organization, including water bottle holders that fit large bottles and a soft laptop sleeve that protects devices effectively.
Style and Design
The sporty, unisex design matches casual and athletic styles well, making it a versatile choice for students.
#2

Fjällräven® Skule 28 Backpack – Multiple Pockets – Top Carry Handle – 100% Polyester – PU Lining Black One Size One Size

Rating
10.0
Size and Capacity
Comfort and Ergonomics
Durability and Material

Most important from
141 reviews

Size and Capacity
The Skule 28 is surprisingly spacious, fitting a lunch box, textbooks, and a laptop snugly.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Quality is top notch with very comfy and thick padding on straps and back.
Durability and Material
The backpack maintains a fresh look and feels brand new even after daily use.
Organization and Pockets
It has stretchy water bottle pockets that fit a 36 oz Yeti rambler and stable shoulder straps.

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.

Rating
10.0
Size and Capacity
Comfort and Ergonomics
Durability and Material

Most important from
141 reviews

Size and Capacity
The Skule 28 is surprisingly spacious, fitting a lunch box, textbooks, and a laptop snugly.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Quality is top notch with very comfy and thick padding on straps and back.
Durability and Material
The backpack maintains a fresh look and feels brand new even after daily use.
Organization and Pockets
It has stretchy water bottle pockets that fit a 36 oz Yeti rambler and stable shoulder straps.
#3

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

Rating
10.0
Size and Capacity
Style and Design

Most important from
7073 reviews

Size and Capacity
Ample room for school books and a lunch, making it perfect for daily use or even as a weekender.
Style and Design
Sturdy enough to handle books, water bottles, snacks, and other daily essentials, with a style that's loved by students.

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.

Rating
10.0
Size and Capacity
Style and Design

Most important from
7073 reviews

Size and Capacity
Ample room for school books and a lunch, making it perfect for daily use or even as a weekender.
Style and Design
Sturdy enough to handle books, water bottles, snacks, and other daily essentials, with a style that's loved by students.

Buying Guide for the Best College Backpacks

Choosing the right college backpack is essential for ensuring comfort, organization, and durability throughout your academic journey. A good backpack will help you carry your books, laptop, and other essentials with ease, while also reflecting your personal style. When selecting a college backpack, consider the following key specifications to find the best fit for your needs.
Size and CapacityThe size and capacity of a backpack determine how much it can hold. This is important because you need enough space to carry your textbooks, notebooks, laptop, and other essentials. Backpacks are usually measured in liters. Small backpacks (15-20 liters) are suitable for light carriers who only need to bring a few items. Medium backpacks (20-30 liters) are ideal for most students, providing enough space for daily essentials without being too bulky. Large backpacks (30+ liters) are best for those who need to carry a lot of items, such as athletes or students with heavy course loads. Consider your daily needs and choose a size that accommodates your typical load.
Laptop CompartmentA dedicated laptop compartment is crucial for students who need to carry their laptops to class. This compartment provides extra padding and protection for your device. Laptop compartments are usually designed to fit specific laptop sizes, such as 13-inch, 15-inch, or 17-inch. Make sure to choose a backpack with a compartment that fits your laptop snugly. If you frequently use your laptop for classes, having a secure and easily accessible compartment will make your life much easier.
Comfort and ErgonomicsComfort and ergonomics are vital for preventing strain and injury, especially if you carry your backpack for long periods. Look for backpacks with padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and an adjustable sternum strap. These features help distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on your shoulders and back. Some backpacks also have a waist belt for additional support. If you have a heavy load or walk long distances, prioritize comfort features to ensure you can carry your backpack without discomfort.
Durability and MaterialThe durability and material of a backpack determine how well it can withstand daily wear and tear. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and canvas. Nylon and polyester are lightweight, water-resistant, and durable, making them popular choices for college backpacks. Canvas is heavier but offers a classic look and excellent durability. Consider the weather conditions and how rough you are on your belongings when choosing a material. A durable backpack will last longer and protect your items better.
Organization and PocketsOrganization and pockets are important for keeping your items easily accessible and well-organized. Look for backpacks with multiple compartments, including smaller pockets for pens, keys, and other small items. Some backpacks have specialized pockets for water bottles, sunglasses, and chargers. If you like to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible, choose a backpack with plenty of pockets and compartments. This will help you find what you need quickly and keep your items in order.
Style and DesignStyle and design are personal preferences that reflect your personality and taste. Backpacks come in various colors, patterns, and designs, from sleek and minimalist to bold and colorful. Consider what style suits you best and how it fits with your overall look. While functionality is important, you also want a backpack that you enjoy carrying and that complements your style. Choose a design that makes you feel confident and happy.

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