School Backpacks: The Best Gear for Both Form and Function for Students

Back to school shopping is always something to anticipate, but finding that perfect backpack to sport for the entire year? Now that’s a quest. Luckily, there are plenty of styles for students of every need, whether you need to haul all your books at once across campus or just want something super cute and original to impress fellow classmates.

The classic L.L. Bean monogram backpack will always be in style, due to its classic preppy look. The deluxe bookbag is only $39, and it comes in an array of colors for both boys and girls, while the premium deluxe version is $49 and includes desirable features like a water bottle pocket, cell phone pocket, and cord port. Their campus bags range from $20 to about $80, and come in an array of sizes to cater to your course load. The latest trend in book bags is a messenger bag, which is supposed to be less strenuous on your back, is also available at L.L. Bean.

Jansport, a company known for its durable outdoorsy products, also has a variety of backpacks to suit the needs of students everywhere. The interactive website helps find the exact backpack for you, asking you questions like “Where are you going?” and “What are you bringing?” While the superbreak style is pretty basic, it holds up to nearly anything, from a heavy course load to a laptop and all your class gear. It also comes in a variety of colors and patterns to ensure that each backpack is personalized for the owner. They also have numerous messenger and sling bags for high school, college, or the office.

Urban Outfitters offers several tote bags for style-conscious students. Le Sportsac and Andy Warhol by Loop Design are popular brands, with their funky prints and graphics. Most of these bags are good for short trips to one or two classes, and are versitile for the weekends or for going out. Urban Outfitters also has a simple canvas button tote in four different colors for only $38.00.