12 Best Backpacks for College Students, Tested & Reviewed by Teen Vogue Editors

The best backpack for college will have to pull a lot of weight. It has to protect your delicate laptop on the way to class, house gym clothes, and even double as a carry-on for trips back home during school breaks.

So it’s essential to find a backpack for school that can help you do the heavy lifting comfortably and stylishly (of course!). Some of the most popular brands, like Jansport and North Face, are known for their good old classics (the iconic North Face chest strap will always be cool in our book), but there are plenty of other trendy backpack brands to check out, too, like Patagonia, MZ Wallace, and Lululemon.

To help you find the best backpacks, we tested out all our favorite styles to see how much they could hold, how comfortable they felt, their durability, and cool organizational features. Comfort is key, so we checked out all the padding on the back panels, shoulder straps, and top handles. Next, we looked at all the organizational features, like interior zip and slip pockets, pen holders, water bottle pockets, laptop compartments, and key rings. We looked at various fabric types for durability, like scratch-free nylon and waterproof polyurethane coating.

We also added laptops, sneakers, textbooks, and other useful classroom essentials to see how heavy and supportive the backpacks felt when packed. Our top pick is the Fjällräven Kanken backpack. We were impressed by its spacious compartments and pockets and the padding and support it offers. Check it out in the photos below.

Our favorite backpacks for college:

• Best overall college backpack: Fjällräven Kanken Laptop Backpack, $116
• Best backpack with laptop sleeve: Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack, $117
• Best backpack with a luggage sleeve: Samsonite Leather Convertible Backpack, $140
• Best lightweight backpack: Patagonia Refugio Daypack, $109
• Best leather backpack: Aurora Backpack, $495
• Best affordable backpack: LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack, $50
• Best backpack with padded straps: WONHOX Large Backpack, $35
• Best water-resistant backpack: Rains Reflective Waterproof Backpack, $95
• Best backpack for everyday use: JanSport Cool Backpack, Batik Houndstooth, $60
• Best stylish backpack: Vera Bradley Campus Backpack, $101
• Best backpack with large compartments: The North Face Jester School Laptop Backpack, $75
• Best backpack for laptops: Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L, $98

Best overall backpack: Fjällräven Kanken Laptop Backpack

“The Fjällräven Kånken is a Swedish staple for a reason. This small but mighty bag was created in 1978 to prevent back problems among students. It’s thoughtfully designed without being overcomplicated, as is the Scandi way,” says Stewart Savin, commerce SEO analyst for Teen Vogue. "The fabric is lightweight but highly durable, the compartments are spacious, and it comes in 50+ colors. All while being under $100! There are a few different sizes (small, medium, large), but I opted for the classic medium, which fits a 13-inch laptop. I carried this bag throughout college and frequently traveled with it as well.  After almost a decade of use, it could use a good wipe down but functions as well as it did the day I got it. My only complaints are that the side pockets can’t fit large water bottles, and the straps can dig in if you’re carrying a heavy load (I’ve considered investing in some shoulder pads for this reason).”

• Pros:✓Extremely durable ✓Ample space ✓ Wide range of colors
• Cons: X Some didn’t like how their water bottles wouldn’t fit inside
• Color(s): 7
• Size: 15.79 x 11.54 x 2.68 inches
• Materials: 100% Vinylal

“This is one of the most stylish backpacks I've ever owned. The gold hardware detailing and loop stitching around the exterior give it a glamorous look," says Shauna Beni-Haynes, commerce editor at Teen Vogue. “The backpack is also shaped like a rectangle, and I love that it can stand up on its own. It has one exterior zip pocket, an interior zip pocket, two slip pockets, and a separate zip-up laptop sleeve compartment on the back. The main compartment is pretty roomy; it can hold about three traditional-sized textbooks (8.5 x 11), and you can add pens and pencils into the slip pockets. I just wish it had a side pocket to add a water bottle.”

• Pros:✓ Wide range of colors ✓ Zippers feel very durable with high-quality faux leather construction.
• Cons: X No exterior pockets for water bottles
• Color(s): 25
• Size: 15.5 x 11.5 x 4.25 inches
• Materials: Faux Leather

“I'm obsessed with how sleek this backpack is—it's the kind you can wear in hallways or crowded public transit without imposing on your neighbors," says Claire Dodson, senior entertainment editor at Teen Vogue. "It holds more than you might think: a laptop, a book or two, and a small makeup bag fit in with ease, with front compartmentalized pockets for keys, cards, hand sanitizer, and a stray lip gloss. Bonus points as a travel bag, as it has a handy back slot for slipping over a rolling luggage handle (it's Samsonite so that tracks). The only negative is the strap situation; I tend to like my bags slung over one shoulder, and because it's all one connected strap, it needs to be adjusted to fit like that. When I want to use two straps/wear over both shoulders, I have to take the backpack wholly off and adjust back, so it's not a quick-change situation. Still, this is one of my favorite backpacks I've ever used; perfect for work, travel, and weekends.”

• Pros:✓Extremely durable ✓Ample space
• Cons: X The straps are not the easiest to adjust
• Color(s): 5
• Size: 15.5 x 11.5 x 5.5 inches
• Materials: Textured Saffiano Leather

This backpack comes with everything you need to carry all your school supplies. There’s an internal laptop sleeve pocket, a zippered pouch to hold tiny tech accessories like headphones or adapters, and an exterior front pouch that can store credit cards and keys. It’s made from eco-friendly, sustainable materials, meaning this bag doesn’t just look good but also does some good for the planet, too. “This is a great backpack for school or work, thanks to all the roomy compartments,” says Shauna. I really like that it doesn't feel too big or bulky, so I can easily stand on a crowded train without having to take it off my back. I can also easily access my wireless earphones and gum in the front zip pockets. The shoulder straps come padded with a mesh fabric that also makes it breathable, so I don't have to worry about my skin starting to feel sweaty in the summer."

• Pros:✓ Perfect size to hold all your essentials ✓ Made from sustainable materials ✓ Fashionable and sturdy
• Cons: ✓ Many wish the side of the backpack had some sort of padding
• Color(s): 32+
• Size: 16.93 x 11.81 x 7.87 inches
• Materials: Recycled Polyester

If you prefer wearing backpacks that feel like practically nothing, this pick will be your best bet. “This is a great backpack for carrying just a laptop and a few other smaller items," says Shauna. It feels super lightweight and has plenty of storage (one zippered pocket, one large main compartment), padding on the shoulder straps, and a separate zip-up laptop compartment with an internal laptop sleeve. I also love that the two exterior side pockets are large enough to fit my Stanley cup. It also comes with a top handle and adjustable buckles on the shoulder straps and front of the bag.

• Pros:✓Extremely durable ✓ Has a durable water-repellent fabric finish
• Cons: X Some users wish it had more small pockets
• Color(s): 8
• Size: 18 x 12 x 6.5 inches
• Materials: 100% Recycled Polyester

Are you having trouble breaking up with your beloved tote bag? Don’t—or at least you won’t when you reach for this choice from Kreya. The Aurora easily transitions between both a tote bag and backpack with a few minor adjustments; a quick tug will have you moving this piece from one shoulder to two. Dubbed “the perfect all-day bag,” the cow leather looks sleek and sophisticated, and the main compartment can fit a 14-inch laptop and school supplies. The metal snaps can also expand when you need extra space. “This is my favorite backpack ever,” says Shauna. On days when I'm wearing a chic fit or heading to a fancy press event, I always reach for this bag becuase it looks stylish and gives off minimalist vibes. I also like how easy it is to slide the straps into a backpack or handbag form. It's definitely not made to carry much stuff, so if you want to carry just a laptop and some smaller essentials, this is the bag for you."

• Pros: ✓Fits a 14-inch laptop ✓Both a tote bag and backpack ✓Made from sleek leather
• Cons: ✓ N/A
• Color(s): 1
• Size: 14 x 13 x 3 inches
• Materials: 100% Cow Leather

Perfect for commuting on rainy days, this waterproof backpack will keep your school valuables safe and sound. It’s available in a sleek black shade and has smooth adjustable shoulder straps that won’t dig into your skin. “This is the best backpack to wear if you commute to school or the office on a bike, scooter, or train,” says Shauna. It's lightweight, feels comfortable on the back, is sleek, and can hold a lot without looking too bulky (it has a large, roomy main compartment and two slip pockets). I also love the little zip pocket on the back panel. I always stick my metro card and keys inside to access them easily."

• Pros:✓Waterproof ✓Fits laptops up to 15-inches ✓ Versatile color
• Cons: ✓Higher priced
• Color(s): Varies by retailer
• Size: 11.4 x 15.7 x 3.9 inches
• Materials: 100% Polyurethane

This backpack has one of the broadest ranges of colors and designs on our list. You’ll find multiple compartments, including two mesh tech sleeves for laptops and tablets and a zippered front pocket for easy access to essentials like your dorm key card. Best of all? You can toss the whole thing in the washing machine for a quick refresh. “This is one of the cutest backpacks I came across. I love the vibrant floral print motif," says Shauna. My favorite features are the back slip pocket and zip pocket, making it easy to access items without taking the entire backpack off. The shoulder straps also have light padding and adjustable buckles."

• Pros:✓Available in many colors and prints ✓ Machine washable
• Cons: ✓ Some wish it was bigger
• Color(s): 61 (varies by retailer)
• Size: 7.5 x 12 x 16.5 inches
• Materials: 100% Cotton

Fashion meets function with this laptop backpack. “I first spotted this cute backpack on the train on my way into the office on another commuter's back. I took a snap of it to look it up later and purchased one for myself," says Shauna. "I love how it can function as a handbag or backpack, and it comes with plenty of space and pockets to store things. The handles and straps feel super soft and have lots of padding, making it extra comfy to carry and hold. It has a wide-open design and a 17-inch laptop compartment that will keep your electronics padded and protected. And if pockets are what you're after, you’ll find plenty of them here." This backpack has two front-zip pockets and two side pockets for a water bottle (or two!). Best of all, there is also a USB charging port to keep your tech powered up no matter where you go.

• Pros: ✓Durable fabric ✓Multi-pocket design ✓Mesh shoulder strap promotes circulation
• Cons: ✓ Many had issues with the compartments not being large enough
• Color(s): 30+
• Size: 7.48 x 11.81 x 16.14 inches
• Materials: Nylon

An oldie but a goodie, the cool backpack has been a fan favorite for years. Its unisex design can fit all styles. It’s made from a water-repellent material and has a front zipper pocket on the exterior. Reliable and lightweight, you can store all your school supplies—from laptops to pencils—and there is still room for some snacks. “This backpack has a classic 90s style with a fun, updated pattern, says Teen Vogue reviewer, Brigitt Earley. "But it’s not just a style item; it’s packed with pockets, so everything has a home, and you know exactly where to find it. The small top pocket is perfect for my keys and wallet—no need to fish around. The back interior pocket fits my laptop perfectly, too. I only wish it were padded.”

• Pros:✓ Classic “old school” style ✓Many colors available ✓ Great for everyday use
• Cons: ✓ Doesn’t have a laptop pocket or pocket for water bottle(s)
• Color(s): 33 (varies by retailer)
• Size: 17 x 12.5 x 6 inches
• Materials: 100% Recycled 600d Polyester

"This is hands down one of the best North Face backpacks I've ever tried," says Shauna. "I even take it with me on vacations and camping because it has many pockets and storage spaces (three interior zip pockets, three exterior slip pockets). The extra padding on the back panel feels super soft, and the shoulder straps are smooth and sturdy. The exterior side pockets come with adjustable buckle straps, which means any size water bottle can fit nicely and securely. The laptop sleeve is also padded, and plenty of mini zip and slip pockets are in the front compartment." It stands upright on its own, so you can effortlessly load and unload it. It’s also endorsed as ergonomic by the American Chiropractic Association. (That means it’s extra comfortable to carry.)

• Pros: ✓Two-webbing top handles for easy movement ✓ Fits up to a 15-inch laptop ✓ Straps remain comfortable with long periods of use
• Cons: ✓ Some say the padded laptop sleeve lacked adequate protection
• Color(s): 19 (varies by retailer)
• Size: 8.25 x 11 x 18.13 inches
• Materials: 600D Recycled Polyester

“As a video editor, I'm always carrying different equipment to work every day, and I've always had issues with totes and bags,” says Ali Farooqui, video director at Teen Vogue. “They always look bulky or never have enough pockets to store my cables and chargers. This backpack literally gets the job done and looks stunning. I can store tiny gadgets in it without them getting lost at the bottom of the bag, and there are plenty of spacious pockets (four interior slip pockets). I love the color, durability, and style.” Plus, it doubles as a carry-on backpack; the luggage trolley sleeve will make the TSA check-in process much smoother.

• Pros:✓Extremely sturdy ✓Water-repellent fabric ✓ Great for travel
• Cons: ✓ Some users noted that the overall size of the backpack is small
• Color(s): 3
• Size: 11.4 x 7.3 x 16.5 inches
• Materials: Body: 100% Nylon