Equipping your child for back-to-school includes many essentials, but the most important is their backpack. With countless options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you—read on to discover Altitude’s best backpacks for kids in 2024!
Best backpack for preschoolers
Your elementary school kid needs a backpack that balances fun designs with practical features like roomy compartments and durable materials. These top choices for 2024 offer the perfect blend of style, comfort, and functionality for young students.
Why we love it
The Deuter Schmusebär Backpack 8L is perfect for young adventurers aged 3 and up. Its design balances comfort, safety, and fun, making it an ideal choice for nursery-aged children.
What others are saying about it
Customers rave about its comfortable fit and thoughtful features, giving it a 4.7-star rating. Calling it a “great little kid backpack,” Ashley M. says, “Great pack for our three-year-old to take to her nature preschool. Has room for her bento lunch box and a change of clothes, and she can carry it comfortably, perfect!”
Features and benefits
- Comfortable: Padded back panel ensures a snug and cozy fit.
- Height-adjustable chest strap: Provides stability during activities.
- Two side pockets: Convenient storage for water bottles and small items.
- Reflective print + 3M reflectors on straps: Enhances visibility and safety.
- S-shaped shoulder straps with Soft-Edge finish: Designed for maximum comfort.
- Child-friendly buckle and draw cord: Easy for little hands to use.
- Name tag inside: Personalization to avoid mix-ups.
Price: 0.00$
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Why we love it
Designed for kids aged 2 and up, the Deuter Pico Backpack is perfect for young adventurers. Its compact size and thoughtful design make it an ideal choice for both nursery and preschool.
What others are saying about it
Earning itself a 5-star rating, parents appreciate the Pico's comfort and practicality. Dubbing it as the “perfect toddler backpack,” Jayne L. goes on to say, “I bought this for my 3yo and it’s the perfect little size for our hikes. She can fit her favourite stuffies and a few snacks in the main part, and it has two outer pockets to hold water bottles. I have a 12 month old as well, and she loves to wear it around the house too. So I’d say this does indeed fit ages 18 months to 3 years.”
Features and benefits
- Comfortable: Soft, padded back panel ensures a cozy fit for youngins.
- Stretch side pockets: Convenient for storing small items.
- Supportive: S-shaped shoulder straps with Soft-Edge finish enhances comfort.
- Zip-around opening: Allows easy access to contents.
- Name tag inside: Helps keep track of the bag.
- Responsible materials: Made from 100% recycled, PFC-free fabric, bluesign certified.
Price: 0.00$
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Why we love it
The Deuter Kikki Backpack is a delightful and a responsible option for young animal lovers aged 3 and up. Its creative design and commitment to sustainability make it a standout choice.
What others are saying about it
With a 4.8-star rating, parents praise the Kikki Backpack for its fun design and durability, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Recently, Ryan M. raved, “The bag is extremely well made with durable materials and features comfortable straps that are perfect for kids.”
Features and benefits
- Comfortable: Padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps provide a snug fit for all-day wear.
- Stretch side pocket and compartment inside: Offers easy access to essentials.
- S-shaped shoulder straps with Soft-Edge finish: Designed for maximum comfort.
- Reflective details and gear loop: Enhance visibility and safety.
- Name tag inside: Personalization to avoid mix-ups.
- Responsible materials: Made from 100% recycled, PFC-free fabric, bluesign certified.
Price: 0.00$
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Best backpacks for elementary school children
Your elementary school kid needs a backpack that balances fun designs with practical features like roomy compartments and durable materials. These top choices for 2024 offer the perfect blend of style, comfort, and functionality for young students.
Why we love it
The Dakine Campus Backpack 18L is vibrant and expressive, perfect for both boys and girls. It offers ergonomic comfort with a reduced back panel size and S-curved shoulder straps. Meanwhile, a padded bottom panel resists the sorts of abrasions your elementary aged kid is liable to encounter.
What others are saying about it
Rating it 5-stars, parents and kids appreciate the layout, size, and all-around durability of the Campus pack. Robert N. writes, “This is the second of these backpacks that we have purchased for our kids. We've had another one for over a year and it has stood up well to being used daily. It is a good size for elementary school to bring a lunch and spare clothes.”
Features and benefits
- Ergonomic comfort: S-curved back panel and shoulder straps for a perfect fit.
- Adjustable sternum strap: Improves weight distribution and offers security during movement.
- Organization: Dual front compartments with cooler pocket, non-padded tablet sleeve, mesh side pockets.
- Protection: Fleece-lined sunglass pocket and a padded bottom panel.
- Durable materials: Recycled polyester with a water-repellent finish.
- Responsible: Uses bluesign approved material.
Price: 0.00$
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Why we love it
Combining classic functionality with a compact design, The North Face Court Jester Backpack 25L is a no-brainer. It’s perfect for keeping belongings organized with its interior divider and two water bottle pockets, making it ideal for active elementary school kids.
What others are saying about it
Parents appreciate the sturdy construction and ample storage, while kids love the sleek design and comfort. Leslie R. reports, “We bought this for my son for school. We walk to and from school and wanted sturdy, comfy, padded straps with some structure to the back without too much weight. This backpack delivers!”
Features and benefits
- Organization: Internal divider, spacious zippered compartment, two water bottle pockets.
- Comfort: Padded back panel and shoulder straps.
- Adjustable sternum strap: Ideal for a snug, secure, load-bearing fit.
- Visibility: 360-degree reflectivity for added safety.
- Convenience: Front bungee for oversized items, top grab handle, internal name tag.
Price: 0.00$
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Why we love it
The Deux par Deux Backpack 18L is a practical and stylish choice for elementary school kids. Its roomy compartments and padded laptop sleeve offer plenty of space and protection for school essentials, while its eco-friendly materials and easy-care design make it a parent’s fave.
What others are saying about it
This Quebec-based brand is known for its quality and thoughtful designs. Customers can expect durability and functionality, with added features like a zippered front pocket and adjustable straps for growing kids.
Features and benefits
- Spacious Storage: Two large compartments and an interior laptop sleeve fit a 15-inch computer.
- Responsible: Made from 100% recycled polyester.
- Comfort: Padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for a comfortable fit.
- Convenience: Front zippered pocket and flat side pockets for extra storage.
- Practicality: Easy to clean with a machine wash in cold water.
Price: 0.00$
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Why we love it
For younger elementary schoolers, the Dakine Grom Backpack 13L is a compact and versatile option. With its practical design, including an adjustable sternum strap with a safety whistle and a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, it’s both functional and fun for little ones.
What others are saying about it
Parents love the Grom for its durability and thoughtful features. Jessie notes, “I had a hard time finding a proper size school bag for my son who is going to kindergarten this year. This bag is exactly what I was looking for—lightweight, the right size, and very well made.”
Features and benefits
- Practical Design: Includes a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, adjustable sternum strap with safety whistle, and cargo straps for extra storage.
- Convenient Storage: Mesh side pockets for water bottles and bungee storage for longer items.
- Durability: Made from 600D polyester for long-lasting use.
- Perfect Size: 13-L capacity is ideal for carrying homework and a lunch.
Price: 0.00$
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Why we love it
For younger elementary schoolers, the Dakine Grom Backpack 13L is a compact and versatile option. With its practical design, including an adjustable sternum strap with a safety whistle and a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, it’s both functional and fun for little ones.
What others are saying about it
Parents are enchanted by the cute design and practical features. From the irresistible Minnie Mouse graphics to the multiple pockets that make organization a breeze, your little one is sure to love it, too.
Features and benefits
- Responsible: Made with at least 50% recycled materials to help reduce waste.
- Comfort: Padded adjustable straps and an adjustable chest strap for a secure, comfortable fit.
- Organization: Zip main compartment, front zipped pocket, and side mesh pocket for easy access to essentials.
- Fun Design: Features whimsical Minnie Mouse graphics that kids adore.
Price: 0.00$
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Best Backpacks for High School
High school students require backpacks that offer increased storage capacity, organisational features, and extra comfort. Our 2024 favourites combine stylish designs with the practicality needed to handle a busy school schedule.
Why we love it
The JanSport Main Campus Pack 32L is a versatile and reliable choice for high school students. Its spacious design and multiple compartments ensure that all school essentials—from textbooks to tech gear—are well-organised and easily accessible. With a dedicated laptop sleeve and an array of pockets, this pack is as practical as it is stylish.
What others are saying about it
Students and parents alike rave about the Main Campus Pack’s durability and functionality. With a 4.9-star rating from 54 reviews, it’s clear this pack delivers. As Ryan E. noted, “My daughter is super happy with this school pack. It’s the perfect size. It fits her lunch kit, agenda and books. Plus has room for extra clothes. She especially likes the colour/design.”
Features and benefits
- Organization: Large main compartment, front organiser compartment, and a zippered stash pocket.
- Comfort: Ergonomic S-Curve padded shoulder straps and fully padded back panel.
- Tech-friendly: Dedicated 15" laptop sleeve.
- Convenience: Side water bottle pocket, side compression straps, and webbing handle for easy carrying.
- Security: Front zippered pocket with a second organiser panel and key fob for keeping essentials secure and accessible.
Price: 0.00$
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Why we love it
With its unparalleled blend of style, functionality, and durability, the Fjällräven Kånken 15” Laptop Backpack is a worthy companion for any high schooler. Boasting a retro aesthetic and eco-friendly materials, this backpack is not only a nod to vintage style but also a practical choice for active students. In addition to its spacious main compartment, it comfortably fits a 15-inch laptop—ideal for both schoolwork and extracurriculars.
What others are saying about it
The Kånken backpack is praised for its robustness and timeless design. With a 4.8-star rating from 21 reviews, Joyce J. is already on her fourth pack, saying, “I had purchased this backpack multiple times since every time I buy one, my kids wanted it. Hopefully, this one is my last and get to keep it for myself.”
Features and benefits
- Laptop Compartment: Dedicated sleeve for a 15-inch laptop.
- Durability: Made from hard-wearing Vinylon F fabric that resists dirt and wetness.
- Comfort: Adjustable shoulder straps and a top handle for easy carrying.
- Practicality: Spacious main compartment with a large zip opening, two flat side pockets, and a front zipped pocket.
- Responsible: Fluorocarbon-free impregnation and made from recycled materials.
- Stylish: Iconic look that always makes a statement.
Price: 0.00$
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Why we love it
The Herschel Supply Co. Pop Quiz Backpack offers a stylish yet functional design that’s perfect for high school students looking to make a statement. Made from 100% recycled materials, it combines environmental responsibility with practical features. Its clean lines and classic look make it a versatile choice for both academic and extracurricular activities.
What others are saying about it
With a 5-star rating, the Pop Quiz Backpack is praised for its durability and organisational efficiency. Jonathan S. shares, “The material seems durable, and the bottom has a waterproof layer. The bag is well-padded and has the right amount of pockets.”
Features and benefits
- Responsible Materials: Made from 100% recycled EcoSystem fabrics.
- Laptop Sleeve: Padded floating sleeve fits laptops up to 16 inches.
- Comfortable Carrying: Adjustable EVA-padded shoulder straps and a top handle.
- Organization: Multiple pockets including a front pocket organiser, side storage sleeve, and stash pocket.
- Expandable Water Bottle Pocket: Accommodates different sizes.
Price: 0.00$
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Why we love it
Combining rugged durability with a size tailored to young adventurers, The North Face Mini Recon Backpack is designed to provide comfort and functionality. In other words, it’s a great choice for middle schoolers seeking a practical yet stylish backpack that can keep up with their fast-paced lifestyle.
What others are saying about it
Rated 4.8 stars from 13 reviews, this backpack is praised for its comfort and practicality. Claudine B. notes, “Perfect size for my first-grader. The pockets are spacious and easy to access,” while Ira C. appreciates the lightweight design, saying, “Daughter loved this backpack. It's perfect for a few binders and a pencil case. Comfortable on the shoulders too!”
Features and benefits
- Comfortable Fit: Padded shoulder straps and back panel designed for younger users.
- Organizational Options: Spacious internal compartment with a divider sleeve and two water bottle pockets.
- Practical Design: Includes a top grab handle, easy-to-use SR buckle for the front pocket, and internal name tag.
- Reflectivity: 360-degree reflectivity for safety.
Price: 0.00$
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Buying Guide: What to Look for When Shopping for Kids Backpacks
Deciding on which backpack is best for your child is about more than just style and price. Below, we discuss several important criteria when choosing the best backpacks for kids.
Age-appropriate Features
Start by considering your child’s age to ensure any backpack meets their specific needs and preferences.
- Preschoolers: Look for lightweight, smaller-sized backpacks with easy-to-use zippers and fun designs. These features make it easy for little ones to manage their belongings while also keeping them excited about their backpack.
- Elementary School: Opt for backpacks with roomy compartments, ergonomic designs, and durable materials. These backpacks need to handle books, lunch boxes, and other school essentials while providing comfort and longevity.
- High School: Increased storage capacity, organisational features, and padded straps are essential. High schoolers often carry heavier loads, so a backpack with multiple compartments for better organization and padded straps for comfort is key.
Padded shoulder straps
Next to the back panel, the shoulder straps are arguably the most important feature when it comes to comfort—so pay attention! They typically come in one of two shapes: straight or contoured.
Straight straps have no visible curvature. This is often the standard shape on men’s, kids, and even unisex backpacks. You’ll also notice this on low-volume as well as fashion backpacks.
Contoured straps, on the other hand, curve in subtle S-shape, snaking inwards at the sternum and then out again as they taper towards the ribs. Contoured straps are the preferred choice for women since they more comfortably accommodate breasts.
Versatility
A versatile backpack is one that can be used for more than one purpose. For example, if your kid is a burgeoning mountain biker, the Deuter Compact 8 Bike Backpack will easily serve double-duty between the classroom and the bike path.
Likewise, if you’re got a little hiker in your home, the Osprey Tempest JR Backpack for girls and the Talon Backpack for boys are spot-on. Choosing a versatile backpack will not only simplify your child’s wardrobe, it’ll be less demanding on your bank account!
Roomy main compartment
Despite the fact that many schools are moving to paperless teaching models, there’s still plenty of items kids need to carry—from a hefty 15” laptop to a lunch box to all sorts of stationery.
That’s why it’s better to err on the side of caution and opt for something slightly bigger than you expect to need.
Additionally, some organizational features are a welcome bonus: places to store pens, snacks, and toys make retrieval easier than ever.
Water bottle pocket
Studies have shown that staying hydrated is essential to effective learning. Water bottle pockets make this a cinch, providing a dedicated space to store bottles that’s always easily accessible.
Durability
Durability is an important consideration when purchasing a kids backpack. Though you might have to fork out a little more up front, the backpack will likely last longer.
Luckily, many backpacks are made of tough, abrasion-resistant materials like 600D polyester. This ensures that the backpack can withstand your child’s endless sage of action-packed adventures.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON KIDS’ BACKPACKS FOR SCHOOL
There are many excellent and popular kids backpacks on the market. In this article, we’ve discussed many of them, from The North Face and Fjällräven to Deuter and Herschel. But, if you still haven’t found the right model, check out our complete collection on Altitude Sports now!
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