It’s hard to believe that back-to-school is literally around the corner. I feel like summer just started, but lots of kids go back in August so the hunt for the right gear is officially on. Back-to-school backpacks in particular. A school backpack is much more than a way to carry books and school supplies. As the one fashion item your kid wears every day, it’s a defining part of their school look.
But kids’ backpacks aren’t just about fashion, they need to be about function, too. The best backpacks for kids incorporate cool design and plenty of storage with a comfy fit that won’t bother them while lugging their wares to and from school.
Looking for the perfect back-to-school backpacks that your kid will be ready to hit the halls (and hopefully the books, too) with? This list is of the 12 coolest back-to-school backpacks is a great place to start shopping:
Back to School Backpacks
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Color-Your-Own Backpack
From tot to teen, who wouldn't love to decorate their own backpack? This one provides a fun activity, an opportunity to truly express creativity, and it features a convenient interior laptop pocket.
Buy It: Target
Price: $29.99 -
Unicorn Backpack
Attention unicorn lovers! This holographic backpack from the Gap features plenty of interior and exterior pockets to keep their stuff stashed and accessible, and it's oh-so-cute!
Buy It: Gap Kids
Price: $40.00 -
Eco-Friendly Backpack
Garnet Hill puts out some of the cutest backpacks around, and some of the smartest, too. Their Eco Signature Backpack is PVC-free, made of up to 18 recycled plastic bags, and it requires up to 53% less energy to produce than a standard backpack. Bonus: through the first week in September you can get a matching lunchbox free with yours!
Buy It: Garnet Hill
Price: $49.95 -
Charging Backpack
In this day and age, kids need to be seriously connected -- why not pick a backpack that's as up to speed as they are? This smart book bag not only charges their devices but it also comes with a waterproof cover and reflective straps.
Buy It: Amazon
Price: $45.99 -
Glow-In-The-Dark Backpack
Pottery Barn Kids has an entire line of glow-in-the-dark book bags and accessories for kids that you can personalize. This is also the most durable brand of backpacks we've tried yet. Need I say more?
Buy It: Pottery Barn Kids
Price: now on sale from $34.50 to $74.50 -
Floral Detail Backpack
When Jansport backpacks were cool among my friends, they were super basic -- but still popular. The brand has come a long way since then, especially with this year's collection or patterned bags and I am not above getting one for myself!
Buy It: Jansport
Price: $60 -
LEGO Brick Backpack
If your little one is starting Kindergarten, this precious book bag is the perfect way to make a stylish (yet functional) statement on the bus. Mix and match with a LEGO Brick lunch bag for a look that clicks
Buy It: Target
Price: $50 -
Monogrammed Backpack
Monograms are the best. This one is made to order from TGNCreations (via Etsy), and you can choose from a wide variety of colors and styles to fit your kiddos' preferences. I love the clear finish, too!
Buy It: Etsy
Price: $40 -
Personalized Seersucker Backpack
I'm a big fan of seersucker anything. And backpacks are no exception. These personalized numbers are probably too cutesy for anyone past early elementary, so I say get it in while you still can!
Buy It: Etsy
Price: from $33 -
Sport Backpacks
Everyone from the jock to the cool girl will love a splatter-print Nike backpack. The bag boasts comfort straps that adjust for alternate carrying style and a roomy interior with a laptop compatible pocket.
Buy It: Kohl's
Price: on sale for $27.99 -
Retro Cool Backpack
These beauts are so cool and they've become a bit of a must-have among the teen set. Designed in 1978 and still just as relevant today with a roomy main zip compartment and easily accessible front and side pockets. Complete with adjustable woven shoulder straps and top handles for easy carrying.
Buy It: Nordstrom
Price: $80 -
Classic Cool Backpack
It's impossible to pick just one favorite from this fun and fresh collection by Herschel, but this black palm print is a great contender.
Buy It: Herschel
Price: $44.99
