A good backpack is an essential gear for your kid’s childhood, and it’s a purchase that often marks one of their first steps to independence.
Whether they are preparing for their first day of school or getting ready to venture out on a school trip, it’s a parent’s responsibility to equip them with the gear they need.
A backpack will be carrying around your child’s most important equipment, from lunchboxes to books, pens, and water bottles. You’ll want to make sure you select one that’s equipped to deal with the unpredictabilities of your little one’s life.
- Practical for school and work
- Waterproof zipper
- Laptop sleeve gives protection for valuables
- Lifetime warranty
- Sufficient back padding
- More than 30 colors
- Durable polyester material
- Water-resistant
- Suitably padded back panel
- Recycled moisture-proof material
- Ergonomic
- Comfortable mesh back panel
- Affordable
- Practical different pockets and compartments
- Safe for your kid’s back
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Several different compartments
- Padded shoulder straps
- Water-resistant fabric
- Only weighs 0.73 pounds
- Durable, military-style material
- Safety features
- Great ease of use
- Small, sleek wheels for easy mobility
- Water-resistant and durable material
- Great for children of all ages
- Lightweight
- Stylish
- Drawcord closure
The Best Kids Backpacks of 2023
Let’s take a look at our shortlist of the 13 best kids’ backpacks.
Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack
Most Practical Kids Backpack
Herschel is a well-known brand, and for a good reason. Through the years, their backpacks have proven to be reliable, durable, and practical.
Though the price may seem high, this backpack comes in a variety of colors and is well equipped for your kid to breeze through the school hallways, not only in style but in comfort too.
With dimensions of 17.5 inches by 11.75 inches, this backpack comes with multiple inside pockets and compartments and a 15-inch laptop sleeve. It’s ideal for books, gadgets, pencil cases, and everything else.
Herschel also equips it with waterproof zippers, as well as padding and fleecing inside. This backpack is durable and will protect your kid’s valuables.
Pros
- Practical for school and work.
- Laptop sleeve gives protection for valuables.
- Waterproof zipper.
- A choice of different materials and colors available for this backpack.
Cons
- High price.
- Does not come with an external water bottle compartment.
Product Specs
Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Dimensions | 17.5 inches (H) x 11.7 inches (W) x 6 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | Grade school, high school kids |
Waterproof | Waterproof zipper detail |
Material | Polyester, synthetic leather |
Our Ratings
JanSport Superbreak Backpack
Best Multipurpose Kids Backpack
At an affordable price, this JanSport backpack may be a great option for your kid.
The key is in its name: Superbreak. Its main selling point is its 600 Denier polyester material. This fabric is industrious and isn’t likely to fall apart any time soon.
If your kid has a hectic schedule darting from school to after-school clubs or trips, JanSport’s Superbreak backpack will support them through this.
It’s also equipped with a padded back panel and padded straps, boosting your kid’s comfort. The AAOS recommends these features for better weight distribution of the backpack on the back (1).
Pros
- Lifetime warranty.
- Sufficient back padding.
- More than 30 colors.
- Durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- The inside has only one compartment.
- No padding or protection for laptops.
Product Specs
Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Dimensions | 16.7 inches (H) x 13 inches (W) x 8.5 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | Grade school ages |
Waterproof | Water-resistant |
Material | Polyester |
Our Ratings
The North Face Youth Sprout Backpack
Most Durable Kids Backpack
While The North Face is best known for its durable outdoor gears, the brand has created a good backpack for younger kids.
Their creation is eye-catching and comes in a selection of different colors, such as porcelain green, camo, and gravity orange.
This backpack will help your youngster be properly equipped for school or days out adventuring.
Constructed with water-resistant polyester material, the contents of this backpack are protected through thick and thin. Its well-padded back panel aid comfort and its reflective loop is an added safety feature.
With a lot of room for carrying their possessions, The North Face has designed a backpack that can cram in a lot, while still being able to remain a suitable size for small kids.
Pros
- Durable polyester material.
- Has chest straps.
- Water-resistant.
- Suitably padded back panel.
Cons
- Limited color options.
- May not have the most attractive designs for younger kids.
Product Specs
Warranty | Information not available |
Dimensions | 11.5 inches (H) x 8.5 inches (W) x 5 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | Small children |
Waterproof | Water-resistant |
Material | Polyester |
Our Ratings
Fjallraven High Coast Trail 20 Backpack
Safest Kids Backpack
The Fjällräven brand was founded by a Swedish entrepreneur who sought to create a company specializing in outdoor equipment — a desire stemming from his own bad experiences with backpacks as a kid. This backpack has been designed with practicality, safety, and comfort in mind.
This pick belongs to the High Coast range of the brand, which is named after the founder’s hometown. An area of waterways and mountains — this backpack has that in mind.
It’s constructed with recycled polyester, which guarantees durability. It also resists moisture with its G-1000 eco-fabric. This backpack is a safe option for your child — installed is a hidden security pocket containing a key-clip, as well as a whistle.
This backpack is going to have a long life. Its moisture-resistance and safety features will see your kid through all kinds of adventures.
Pros
- Recycled moisture-proof material.
- Ergonomic.
- Comfortable mesh back panel.
Cons
- Design may not look too appealing for kids.
Product Specs
Warranty | Not specified |
Dimensions | Not specified |
Age recommendation | 6 to 9 years |
Waterproof | Moisture-resistant |
Material | Recycled polyester and organic cotton |
Our Ratings
Nike Brasilia Youth Backpack
Coolest Kids Backpack
Is your child into big brand names? If the answer is yes, this Nike Brasilia backpack may be the best option to keep you both happy.
Nike has kept its design simple for easy use, while still creating a backpack great for everyday carrying.
This backpack looks cool, sporting the famous brand name, and it comes in a few color choices. Its unique look will keep the wearer feeling stylish in the hallways.
This design boasts a generous amount of space for water bottles, lunch boxes, books, and more. The storage consists of the main compartment and mesh side pockets.
The bag is also fitted with adjustable shoulder straps and a padded back to prevent the risk of spinal injury and back pain.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Practical different pockets and compartments.
- Safe for your kid’s back.
Cons
- Only a few color choices.
Product Specs
Warranty | Information not available |
Dimensions | 16.06 inches (H) x 12.2 inches (W) x 2.28 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | Young kids |
Waterproof | Everyday waterproof |
Material | Information not available |
Our Ratings
AmazonBasics Classic School Backpack
Most Affordable Kids Backpack
If your kid needs a simple, practical bag to see them through a typical school day or outing, this is a good bet.
Its design is lightweight and easy to carry around. For extra safety and comfort, the shoulder straps are adjustable and padded.
Although it’s a simple design, this backpack has a spacious main compartment fitted with a zippered pocket, two water-bottle pockets, and a small zipped compartment on the front exterior, great for necessary school equipment
Pros
- Affordable.
- Lightweight.
- Has several different compartments.
Cons
- Does not appear to be waterproof.
- Not as durable as some other brands.
Product Specs
Warranty | One year |
Dimensions | 15.8 inches (H) x 12.2 inches (W) x 6 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | Grade-school ages |
Waterproof | No |
Material | Polyester |
Our Ratings
Mountaintop Childrens Camping Backpack
The Versatility Award
Does your kid have a love for the outdoors? A desire to explore the wilderness? Or loves to carry a million and one things to school?
This versatile backpack will take care of it all. Its multipurpose design makes it a good option for the kid who does everything.
Its main compartment offers maximum space, while the array of different pockets and compartments makes for efficient organization.
It boasts two front mesh pockets for little trinkets and essentials. Inside is fitted with a laptop compartment, along with a side pocket for accessible water-bottle storage.
This backpack isn’t too big or too small. You won’t have to worry about your youngster dragging a heavy load around.
Pros
- Useful compartments to organize belongings.
- Has laptop compartment and name tag.
- Mesh and padded areas at the back enables air circulation.
- Padded shoulder straps minimize back pain and strain.
- Variety of colors to choose from.
Cons
- Won’t fit an A4 folder.
- Not the cheapest option.
Product Specs
Warranty | Standard |
Dimensions | 14.2 inches (H) x x 9.4 inches (W) x x 6.3 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | 3 to 6 years old |
Waterproof | Yes |
Material | Polyester |
Our Ratings
Mochila Military Small Backpack
Most Eco-Friendly Kids Backpack
This may be the most efficient, durable, and cool backpack, all at the same time.
With its adjustable drawstring closure and two hidden pockets, this backpack is safe and easy to use. To secure the bag, pull the drawstring closed, and then pull the second closure flap over the top. This helps to prevent theft.
The backpack is well kitted out with multiple compartments inside and out, so it has enough room for items such as iPads, books, pens, and other essentials. It is a good option for school.
The designers have chosen to give the backpack a military-style with a color choice of army green, khaki, or black.
It’s constructed with Oxford Waterproof Fabric material, so if your youngster is heading out on a school camping trip, or is a budding explorer, this could be a good choice for them.
Pros
- Durable, military-style material.
- Safety features.
- Great ease of use.
Cons
- Lacks chest or compression straps.
Product Specs
Warranty | Yes |
Dimensions | 11.8 inches (H) x 11.8 inches (W) x 7 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | 12 and up |
Waterproof | Water-resistant |
Material | Oxford material |
Kipling Luggage Sanaa Wheeled Backpack
Kids Backpack with the Coolest Design
Kipling has created an easy-to-use backpack that will do the heavy lifting for you. It’s equipped with the standard backpack straps and rolling wheels too.
If the owner has lots of books to carry or is suffering from back discomfort, they can choose to wheel their backpack through the school halls.
This innovative design removes the possibility of shoulder and back pain, while letting the user look cool too.
It’s fitted with water-resistant crinkle nylon, shoulder pads, and a telescopic handle.
The designers also had in mind convenience and functionality. They have installed mesh pockets for water bottle storage and an exterior flap pocket for easy access to essentials.
The array of compartments allows for an organized backpack, which will get your youngster through their day.
Pros
- Small, sleek wheels for easy mobility.
- Water-resistant and durable material.
- Great for children of all ages.
Cons
- Expensive.
- Might be a trip hazard in the school hallways.
Product Specs
Warranty | One year |
Dimensions | 18.5 inches (H) x 12.5 inches (W) x 10.8 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | All ages |
Waterproof | Water-resistant |
Material | Nylon |
Herschel Retreat Backpack
Kids Backpack with the Sleekest Design
Are you looking for a backpack that is lightweight, practical, and holds a lot? This Herschel Retreat pick may be a good choice for you. This modern version of a traditional style is effortlessly cool and functional.
With its lightweight design using a drawstring closure and magnetic fastenings, it handles practicality and security subtly.
This pack also comes equipped with padded shoulders for a comfortable fit.
The backpack is fitted with a 15-inch laptop sleeve and is spacious inside.
Whether your kid has to haul a gym uniform to class, or must have their laptop on them, this backpack will suffice.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Stylish.
- Padded shoulders.
Cons
- Not waterproof.
- Pricey.
Product Specs
Warranty | Standard warranty |
Dimensions | 17 inches (H) x 12 inches (W) x 5.75 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | Middle-school to college |
Waterproof | No |
Material | Polyester, fleece |
Dakine Kids' Grom Backpack
Most Useful Kids Backpack
Dakine is a well-known brand, and rightfully so. They design their backpacks to maximize practicality and durability. This affordably-priced backpack could see your kid throughout the entire school year, whatever may come.
Designed with students in mind, this backpack has multiple pockets and compartments for school essentials.
It has seven color options to choose from. Aside from that, it also has a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Extremely versatile.
- Durable material.
- Many designs to choose from.
Cons
- May be too big and bulky for younger kids.
Product Specs
Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Dimensions | 16.5 inches (H) x 12.2 inches (W) x 3.7 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | Middle-school – college |
Waterproof | No |
Material | Polyester |
Adidas Prime Backpack
Best Backpack for a Sporty Kid
While Adidas is mostly known for their sports gear, it has created this trendy backpack for your kid’s needs. With many color options and fresh designs, your kid will be well equipped to strut the school halls.
This backpack delivers practicality and ease. It is fitted with a padded laptop pocket and a main internal compartment, with as many as five outside pockets.
The pockets on the backpack’s exterior benefit the user by helping with the weight distribution. The designers have considered safety and have incorporated external reflective detailing.
It also has LoadSpring shoulder straps and a sporty silhouette.
Pros
- Reflective detailing for safety.
- Numerous pockets for organization.
- Lifetime warranty.
- Durable.
Cons
- Lacks compression straps.
Product Specs
Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Dimensions | 20.50 inches (H) x 14.50 inches (W) x 14.00 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | Middle school to college |
Waterproof | Water-resistant |
Material | Polyester |
Oscaurt Anti-theft Travel Backpack
Best Kids Backpack for the Modern World
Are you looking for a backpack to suit your kid’s daily adventures in the modern world? Oscaurt’s innovative backpack is fitted with a portable USB charging cable, so it may be a good bet.
For the mature kids who may often be traveling, this backpack is fitted with several safety designs, including a hidden zip and pocket, anti-cut fabric, and reflective detailing, great for keeping your kid and their valuables safe.
Pros
- Multiple safety features.
- Waterproof.
- Multiple compartments for organization.
- Affordable price.
Cons
- May be too bulky for younger kids.
Product Specs
Warranty | No |
Dimensions | 17 inches (H) x 11 inches (W) x 5 inches (D) |
Age recommendation | All ages |
Waterproof | Yes |
Material | EVA |
Product | Best | Warranty | Dimensions | Age recommendation | Waterproof | Material |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack | Practical Backpack | Lifetime | 17.5″ x 11.7″ x 6″ | Grade school, high school kids | Waterproof zipper detail | Polyester, synthetic leather |
JanSport Superbreak Backpack | Multipurpose | Lifetime | 16.7″ x 13″ x 8.5″ | Grade school ages | Water-resistant | Polyester |
The North Face Backpack | Durable | N/A | 11.5″ x 8.5″ x 5″ | Small children | Water-resistant | Polyester |
Fjallraven High Coast Trail 20 | Safest | Not specified | N/A | 6 – 9 years | Yes | Recycled polyester, organic cotton |
Nike Brasilia Youth Backpack | Coolest | N/A | 16.06″ x 12.2″ x 2.28″ | Young kids | Everyday waterproof | N/A |
AmazonBasics School Backpack | Affordable | One year | 15.8″ x 12.2″ x 6″ | Grade-school ages | No | Polyester |
Mountaintop Camping Backpack | Versatility Award | Standard | 14.2″ x 9.4″ x 6.3″ | 3 to 6 years | Water-resistant | Polyester |
Mochila Military Backpack | Eco-Friendly | Yes | 11.8″ x 11.8″ x 7″ | 12 and up | Water-resistant | Polyester material |
Kipling Luggage Sanaa Backpack | Coolest Design | One year | 18.5″ x 12.5″ x 10.8″ | All ages | Water-resistant | Nylon |
Herschel Retreat Backpack | Sleekest Design | Standard | 17″ x 12″ x 5.75″ | Middle-school – college | No | Polyester, fleece |
Dakine Grom Backpack | Useful | Standard | 16.5 x 12.2 x 3.7″ | Middle-school – college | No | Polyester |
Adidas Prime Backpack | Sporty Kid | Lifetime | 20.50″ x 14.50″ x 14.00″ | Middle school – college | Water-resistant | Polyester |
Oscaurt Travel Backpack | Modern World | No | 17″ x 11″ x 5″ | All ages | Yes | EVA |
How to Choose a Backpack for Kids
Choose the Best for Your Kids
Choosing the best kids’ backpack is not an easy decision. They should be equipped with one to help them in any adventure they set out on, whether that be school or a vacation.
Making an educated decision will also give you peace of mind. Always opt for a backpack with ample back and shoulder support for your child.
Reflective detailing is essential if your child is often out alone, and water-proof material is a must if they can’t get enough of the outdoors.
Giving them the right backpack can instill in them a sense of independence and confidence, so you want to provide them with the best possible.