Funky or functional? Help your little student find the perfect back-to-school backpack, messenger bag or book bag.
Back-to-school backpack trends
Your options are endless when it comes to backpacks, and we’ve rounded up some of the more unique options for your back-to-school shopping.
Customizable backpack
Trademark Global Color Your Own school bag: Your kids will have a blast customizing their own backpack. Along with the eight colorful markers included, your child can use paint or even crayons to decorate the bag. With four storage pockets, durable fabric construction and adjustable shoulder straps, this packpack is ideal for elementary kids ages 7 and up. ($26, Wayfair.com)
Messenger bag
Wildkin Parrot Green Kickstart messenger backpack: Some kids find the messenger bag more user-friendly than a backpack. (It’s definitely more comfortable on the school bus!) Wildkin offers dozens of patterns for girls and boys alike, along with gender-neutral designs like this one. The water and tear-resistant bag features tons of pockets and compartments for all of your young student’s needs. ($30, Target.com)
Athletic backpack
Nike Y.A. Halfday BTS backpack: For your student athlete, there’s nothing like a big Nike swoosh! The Halfday BTS backpack features recycled material, padded shoulder straps, a removable pencil case and a prominent woven Swoosh design trademark. ($28, eBags.com)
Earth-friendly backpack
ecogear™ Kids Panda backpack: This eco-friendly backpack is created from natural cotton, non-toxic dyes and sustainable wood components. Each year, ecogear™ donates one percent of sales to organizations devoted to the preservation and restoration of our natural environment. ($17.99, ecogear.com)
Personalized backpack
Lillian Vernon Bungee backpack: Nobody does personalization like Lillian Vernon. The rugged backpack is styled like the expensive sporting goods store versions and comes in pink, blue and purple. It’s ideal for school as well as travel, hiking and more! ($20, LillianVernon.com)
Security backpack
isafebags Guardian backpack: This school backpack will keep your child’s valuables safe from bullies, predators and criminals. The battery-operated backpack features high-decibel sirens (louder than most car alarms) and a high-intensity strobe light to attract immediate attention to dangerous situations. ($50, isafebags.com)
Dos and don’ts for backpacks >>
Character backpack
Batman™ backpack: This great backpack rises to the occasion and comes in small, medium and large sizes. Exterior straps and pockets are ideal for holding matching lunch box and water bottle (both sold separately). If your child isn’t into Batman, that’s okay. There’s a backpack on the market for just about every pop-culture icon out there. ($40 – $70, Pottery Barn Kids)
Rolling backpack
Lands’ End School Rules ClassMate® Medium wheeled backpack: This rolling backpack is easy to maneuver and easy on the back. The Good Housekeeping Research Institute gave it an A for the “smoothest wheels ever!” The water-repellant fabric is tough and durable, and kids love the handy removable organizer pouch. ($79, Lands’ End.com)
More back-to-school backpack tips
Backpack safety: Get the right fit
6 Essentials for a super-kid’s backpack
Mary-Kate and Ashley’s line of six-figure backpacks
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