My one splurge for school supplies is a good backpack; I like to think of it as an investment. Have you seen how kids treat backpacks? They’re not nice to them. I invest in backpacks that will last a whole school year — that will withstand more than 180 days of getting tossed, trampled on, rained on and chewed on, and will get the job done without giving my kids aches and pains.
Whether you’re sending your older teen off to college or your tween to his last year of elementary school, invest in a backpack your kids will love and that won’t fall apart after a couple of months.
Teens
Timbuk2 Tuck Pack
This bag has a lifetime warranty! It’s a straightforward roll-top with sturdy pockets and laptop protection. It’s comfortable for walking on campus, having on your back while you ride a bike or running to catch the bus.
North Face Women’s Electra Backpack
Another great pack with a lifetime warranty. This pack is specially designed to fit a woman’s torso, making it a comfortable fit for getting to and from class.
JanSport Overexposed Backpack
Some high-schoolers like to make a statement. This bright pack has all the classic features of a JanSport pack, with comfortable shoulder straps and lots of pockets.
Case Logic Huxton Daypack
Then there are the teenagers who like to keep a low profile. This unassuming solid-color pack has a padded back panel and shoulder straps, a laptop compartment and overlapping front pockets that provide easy access to phones, wallets and other accessories.
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Tweens
Cotopaxi Kilimanjaro Backpack
No one is rougher on backpacks than middle-school kids. They’re out and about more, going to sports practice and solo library trips. You want to make sure you get a sturdy backpack that will withstand all the rough-and-tumble activities of an average seventh-grader. The Kilimanjaro has a padded back panel, adjustable shoulder straps, an internal laptop sleeve, multiple zippered pockets and side water bottle pockets.
Patagonia Lightweight Black Hole
This weather-resistant pack comes in many different colors — perfect for any taste. It’s hydration compatible, perfect for busy kids and comfortable for kids who ride their bikes to school.
Thule Departer 21L Daypack
This water-resistant pack accommodates laptops and tablets. It’s big enough to carry your child’s school lunch and, on sleepover days, their extra clothes. It’s a sturdy pack with high-visibility interior details to help your child quickly locate everything they need.
Augusta Large Dri-Color Dance Backpack
Your child doesn’t need to be a dancer to sport this pack. It comes in many different colors, and includes two compartments with separate zippers and padded pockets with an opening for earphones. It’s a great pack to help keep your elementary-school kid organized.
What are some features you look for in backpacks, and why?
