Top 10 Kids Backpacks
The 10 Best Kids Backpacks To Buy In 2023—Ranked
We're firm believers that every school year should start with some fresh gear to up the excitement. After all, if what a brand new backpack does for kids equates to what a designer bag can do for us, then it's the perfect way to start the new school year. So before your toddler, tween, or teenager starts the school year, we've rounded up a list of the absolute best backpacks on the market for keeping all their back-to-school supplies both secure and stylish.
These backpacks are not only stylish but also high-quality, durable, and perfect for keeping all their back-to-school supplies secure. After all, a backpack that can resist wear and tear (including dirt, water, and rips) and holds your child's attention is a plus. Whether you're looking for backpacks for girls, boys, kindergarteners, or elementary schoolers, we've got you covered. Keep scrolling to discover the Top 10 kids backpacks that will have your kiddos starting the year on a stylish note.
Our Method For Finding The Best Kids Backpacks
With the help of our data-driven algorithm, we scoured the internet in search of the best backpacks for kids on the market. The results? A handy selection of backpacks from beloved brands like L.L. Bean, JansSport, State, and more. Our algorithm is a proprietary tool that factors in reviews, social media buzz, best-seller lists, and more to rank and discover the best products on the web, so you know its information you can trust. Below, shop the best kids backpacks for the upcoming school year.
August 8, 2023
Written By:Rank & Style
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
JanSport Superbreak Backpack
Overall Score
4.3
10
JanSport Superbreak Backpack
4.6
15286 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Traditional Kids Backpack
WHY YOU NEED IT
Is there anything more classic than a JanSport backpack? Comfortable, reliable, and complete with plenty of pockets, you can't go wrong.
USER REVIEW
"JanSport is the best brand for backpacks because they are stylish, durable, and have a FABULOUS repair program. If you buy a JanSport, you have purchased a product that lasts a lifetime! Whenever our kids (or we) break a zipper or wear out a seam, we simply contact the company and, for the cost of shipping, get it repaired quickly and well. The only downside is the sheer amount of colors and designs to pick from, but that, in my opinion, is a great problem to have!"
More Colors
VASCHY Kids Backpack
Overall Score
4.35
09
VASCHY Kids Backpack
4.8
2855 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Backpack For Preschoolers
WHO IT'S FOR
Lightweight and durable, this kids backpack is large enough to organize and keep all of the daily school essentials but small enough for a preschooler to carry comfortably without weighing them down. It's also made of water-resistant polyester and features several compartments and a flexible water bottle sleeve.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This kids backpack comes in several fun colors and prints, from Yellow Puppies to Rainbow Unicorn.
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BLUEFAIRY Kids Backpack
Overall Score
4.35
08
BLUEFAIRY Kids Backpack
4.8
2570 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Kids Backpack With Laptop Sleeve
WHO IT'S FOR
Equipped with dual zippers, reinforced stitching, and padded shoulder straps, this backpack has all the makings of a durable school bookbag for elementary students or teenagers. Bonus: It's machine washable.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
With more than 2,500 reviews and a nearly 5-star rating on Amazon there's a good chance this backpack will be a hit with your kiddo.
More Colors
Simple Modern Fletcher Kids' Backpack
Overall Score
4.35
07
Simple Modern Fletcher Kids' Backpack
4.8
5087 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
2
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Printed Kids Backpack
WHO IT'S FOR
With this backpack, there's a pattern for every personality from the Disney fans to dinosaur-lovers. Plus, it comes in two sizes for differing needs and includes extra padding amd straps to make carrying it more comfortable.
USER REVIEW
"I ordered this backpack for my 2 year old daughter for an upcoming trip; it fits her perfectly. It has enough space for her toys and books, and then pockets on side for her water cup. It also seems very durable. My daughter loves it, and I am also very happy with it."
More Colors
The North Face Youth Court Jester Backpack
Overall Score
4.4
06
The North Face Youth Court Jester Backpack
4.45
250 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Sports Kids Backpack
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
The North Face Youth Court Jester Backpack is loved by tweens and teens for a few reasons: the stylish bold logo, front bungee fits, the main spacious zippered compartment, and two water bottle pockets.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Made from recycled polyester with a durable water-repellant finish, this backpack works for school or travel.
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Crate&Kids Medium Kids Backpack with Side Pockets
Overall Score
4.45
05
Crate&Kids Medium Kids Backpack with Side Pockets
4.63
64 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Water- And Fade-Resistant Kids Backpack
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Crafted from durable water-resistant polyester made from consumer water bottles, this backpack is ready to handle anything. It has several outside pockets and a roomy interior with an extra padded pocket large enough to fit a tablet. And for an additional $12 you can personalize it with a monnogram.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Need a different size? Crate&Kids Backpacks come in small, medium, and large sizes so you can find one that works best for your kid's needs.
More Colors
L.L.Bean Original Book Pack
Overall Score
4.45
04
L.L.Bean Original Book Pack
4.7
627 User Reviews
2.9
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Large Kids Backpack
ABOUT THE BRAND
L.L.Bean kills it when it comes to kids backpacks, and it's easy to see why. The brand carries tons of different styles, from classic book bags to rollers to hiking backpacks, and all of them are made with smart features like storm flaps, padded straps, tech pockets, and more.
USER REVIEW
"This is a very nice, well-made backpack that's made to last. We purchased the red with the powder gray accenting around the edges. The monogramming of my son's first name is perfectly matched as the thread, and accent colors are the same. It looks amazing, and my son LOVES it!"
More Colors
State Kane Backpack
Overall Score
4.5
03
State Kane Backpack
4.9
89 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Kids Backpack For Kindergarten
WHY YOU NEED IT
STATE uses some of the most unique color combos and materials for all its designs, so you can easily find the one that best meets your little one's style and personality.
FUN FACT
For each bag sold, STATE Bags donates a fully stocked backpack to a local child in need.
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Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack
Overall Score
4.65
02
Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack
0
0 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Personalized Kids Backpack
WHO IT'S FOR
If your kiddo is the type to put their backpack through lots of wear and tear, this Pottery Barn pick is an excellent choice. Featuring water-resistant polyester and sturdy zippers and straps, this baby is built to last.
FUN FACT
This top-rated backpack comes in all kinds of fun variations, from glow-in-the-dark options and cool camo prints for the boys to pretty polka dots and princesses for the girls.
More Colors
Bentgo Kids Prints 2-in-1 Backpack & Insulated Lunch Bag
Overall Score
4.65
01
Bentgo Kids Prints 2-in-1 Backpack & Insulated Lunch Bag
4.7
4563 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Kids Backpack Overall
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
The fabric on this backpack is oh-so-adorable and incredibly durable, with its 8 different patterns ranging from blue spaceships to purple unicorns and a water-resistant exterior. Not only does it have two large zippered sections, but it also has an additional insulated lunch box on the bottom that prevents loss.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
When the school day stretches so long, it's important that kids recieve the support to carry their things comfortably. That's why this backpack has padded straps, a padded back, and an optional chest strap.
More Colors
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