The new school year is on the horizon, and if there’s one thing your kids really need, it’s a sturdy bag that’ll hold all their gear (and won’t fall apart in six months). Backpacks for school have to be durable, roomy, and ready for anything your kiddos throw at them throughout the year. From the hottest trends to classic style, we’ve found 12 cool kids’ backpacks that’ll send them back to the classroom with confidence.
From preschool to high school, these cool kids’ backpacks cover the whole crew. Whether they want to bring their favorite character with them wherever they go or they need a bag that holds up from class to practice and everything in between, we’ve made sure to round up all sorts of shapes and styles for every type of kiddo. Read on for our favorite backpack picks this year!
Pottery Barn Kids Backpacks
The PBK backpack is a classic. With different sizes for different ages, customization, and matching lunch boxes and accessories, you can't go wrong. Tons of colors, prints, and styles available.
Pottery Barn Kids Backpacks ($39.50+)—Buy Here!
LEGO Backpacks
Leave it to LEGO to make back-to-school extra fun. From their brick-shaped backpacks in multiple colors to their LEGO duplo characters for little students, they've got learning and playing on lock.
LEGO Backpacks on Amazon ($27.60+)—Buy Here!
The Children's Place Holographic Backpacks
While you're stocking up on back-to-school clothes at The Children's Place, head over to their backpacks for the coolest holographic bags. There are lots of different shiny designs, along with some very cute classics, too. Of course, because The Children's Place knows kids, they come in different sizes for learners of all ages.
The Children's Place Holographic Backpacks ($26.99+)—Buy Here!
STATE Bags
STATE Bags offer some of the cutest backpacks for kids (and adults!) in multiple sizes and so many great colors and prints. They're lightweight and made from recycled materials, are inclusively designed, and for every bag sold (they have way more than just backpacks), STATE donates to support American children and families in need.
STATE Bags Backpacks ($98.00+)—Buy Here!
Nike Kids' Backpacks
Sporty? Check. Cool? Check? Sustainable? Check. Nike isn't just your go-to for back-to-school shoes. With on-trend backpacks (most of them made with sustainable materials), these bags are ready for whatever the school year brings.
Nike Kids' Backpacks ($27.00+)—Buy Here!
Maisonette Backpacks
Get the whole gang ready to tackle the year with the huge assortment of backpacks from Maisonette. With so many colors and sizes to choose from, including toddler-sizes, you'll have the entire family covered. Among our faves is the LIGHT + NINE Collection, featuring backpacks that are spill-proof, durable, and oh-so-cool (you can even snag patches to make them your own).
Maisonette Backpacks ($23.00+)—Buy Here!
Wanderwild Backpacks
Wanderwild was designed by two moms looking for kids' backpack and gear that have fun patterns, purposeful features, and can hold up to everything kids have on their plates. These nature-inspired backpacks are available in different sizes and lots of great designs.
Wanderwild Backpacks ($55.00+)—Buy Here!
Crate & Kids Backpacks
Backpacks from Crate & Kids are just the right size for the whole crew. They come in 18 fun patterns and 3 sizes to fit kiddos 3 - 7 years+. Add personalization for $12.
Crate & Kids Backpacks ($39.00)—Buy Here!
L.L.Bean School Backpacks
It's no surprise L.L.Bean backpacks are built to last. They're rugged, but still fully kid-friendly, and they come in several different styles and sizes for all their activities (in and out of the classroom).
L.L.Bean School Backpacks ($34.95+)—Buy Here!
Target Backpacks
You'll be at Target for school supplies, anyway, so it's the perfect time to pick up one of their backpacks. Characters, prints, and sets that include water bottles and lunch boxes—what more could you ask for? There are even $5 options.
Target Backpacks ($5.00+)—Buy Here!
Lands' End Kids' Backpacks
Kids' tech bags, flap front backpacks, and even duffle bags (on top of their classic backpack styles), Lands' End has so many styles, colors, and prints, you're going to find something for your kiddo.
Lands' End Kids' Backpacks ($39.95+)—Buy Here!
JanSport Backpacks
If you know, you know. There's even a good chance that JanSport backpack you used in 2002 is still in your grab-and-go rotation—these beauties last forever. There are several colors and prints to choose from.
JanSport Backpacks ($65.00+)—Buy Here!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
All images courtesy of retailers.
