"If new backpacks can do for kids what new handbags can do for moms, I think we can all agree it’s time to brighten our little one’s days with some fresh gear for the new school year. I’m not saying retail therapy is always the answer, but who doesn’t remember the excitement of back-to-school shopping as a child?
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We’re not trying to cut your summer fun short, but kids will be heading back to school before we know it. And although we’re partial to summertime, there’s just something about a clean notebook, new kicks, and, of course, the staple of all back-to-school supplies—the backpack—to set the right tone for the upcoming school year.
So let the back-to-school shopping begin, and check out the best backpacks for kids of all ages below. They’re both cute and functional!
How we chose the best backpacks for kids?
Although it seems like summer just started, The Everymom editors are already hard at work prepping for back-to-school season. And with moms of kids from toddler to tween on our team, we know which items will make this end-of-summer transition as easy as possible. We’ve combined what we know from our own purchases with consumer reviews to put together a selection of the best kids’ backpacks that are cute, functional, and practical. We prioritized key features such as durability, number of pockets, and easy-to-clean materials in our backpack selection.
Preschool Backpacks
Preschool backpacks are smaller sized for smaller frames. They should be able to fit a water bottle, a change of clothes, and other small items. Note that most might be too small to fit a standard 9-by-12 folder, so shop the elementary-sized options if you need extra space.
This toddler-sized backpack is the perfect accessory that can hold their preschool essentials. It’s roomy, has a wipeable interior, and comes with a side loop to let you personalize their bag.
3 patterns available
This backpack from an editor-favorite brand has plenty of pockets for school. It includes a padded tablet sleeve, large zip-closure front pocket, and two expandable bottle sleeves on the sides.
30+ patterns available
Pottery Barn Kids’ durable and functional Mackenzie backpack comes in many adorable patterns and all options can be personalized. It also comes in multiple sizes to fit kids of all ages.
2 sizes available
Option to personalize
This preschooler-sized backpack is as fun as it is functional with one main zip compartment, a large front pocket, and adjustable shoulder straps.
Skip Hop’s favorite zoo collection backpacks now come in a larger size for kids who need to fit their folders, lunchboxes, and more.
2 styles available
We love this fun-filled design with a separate front zippered compartment that’s insulated, easy-to-clean, and food-safe.
20+ patterns available
Encourage your little superhero to take on any back-to-school challenge with this fun themed backpack.
For the little one who loves space, this backpack is adorable and functional. It has plenty of pockets, the ability to personalize, and the option to add a matching water bottle and lunch box.
Option to personalize
Designed with a cute pattern to match your kiddo’s personality, this backpack offers mesh side pockets, a roomy main compartment, and adorable details.
5 styles available
For your dinosaur-obsessed little one, this playful backpack is lightweight and features adjustable straps, a large interior compartment, and a front pouch.
This 3D cartoon-style backpack is made with environmentally-friendly material. It’s also water-resistant, making it equipped to protect your kid’s favorite items.
20+ styles available
If you want to ditch the patterns and opt for solid colors instead, this one’s your best bet. It’s designed with a safety reflective strip, durable zippers, and multiple storage compartments.
10+ colors available
Perfectly preschool-sized for kids ages 3 to 7, this kids’ backpack comes in many colors and patterns and is made from recycled fabrics.
10+ colors/patterns & 2 sizes available
We couldn’t resist adding this truck patterned backpack into the mix. It’s equipped with comfy and adjustable shoulder pads, as well as multiple pockets and loops.
Option to personalizeOption to personaliz
From the brand behind some of the cutest personalized family tees comes this adorable Varsity Letter toddler backpack. Personalize it with your child’s initial so your little one will always be able to spot their backpack.
6 colors available
Kids’ Backpacks
From kindergarten on, kids typically need more space to house folders, books, extra clothes or shoes, lunch boxes, and more. Here are some of our favorite kids’ backpacks to fit everything they need for school.
Available in a plethora of colors and patterns, this kids’ backpack will fit a 14-inch laptop in the main compartment and a water bottle in the side pockets.
40+ styles & 4 sizes available
The fun print isn’t the only reason we love this backpack. It’s made from recycled materials and has space to hold everything your kid needs—books, school supplies, extra layers, and more. Plus, there’s an exterior spot to hold their snacks and store their water bottle.
3 sizes available
Option to personalize
This quilted backpack is so cute we want one for ourselves. It’s crafted from durable fabric, is fade-resistant, and comes with roomy interior and exterior pockets.
2 colors & 3 sizes available
Option to personalize
This 2-in-1 backpack and lunch box provides all the storage of a great book bag combined with the convenience of an insulated pocket for their Bentgo lunchbox. Plus, it’s lightweight, durable, and has lots of roomy compartments.
10+ patterns available
This fun patterned backpack is made from super durable fabric with a moisture-resistant nylon lining to last through the whole school year.
10+ patterns available
Designed to last, this backpack is made from recycled fabric, has side and front storage for quick-reach items, and can fit a 13-inch/14-inch laptop.
10+ colors/patterns & 3 sizes available
This backpack is designed to grow with your child. Additionally, it features easy-to-grab zipper pulls, an insulated outer pocket to keep snacks cool and within reach, and pockets to keep their belongings safe.
2 sizes available
Option to personalize
The Jansport backpack is a classic for a reason. This one is known for its XL size with two large main compartments, a laptop sleeve, and a side water bottle pocket.
30+ colors/patterns available
The bigger version of Herschel’s Heritage backpack, this youth size will get them through several grades without a problem.
10+ colors/patterns available
This weatherproof and durable backpack comes with an option to monogram, so kids can truly make it their own.
9 patterns available
Option to personalize
Your sporty kiddo will love repping this Adidas backpack. It has a wipeable lining, multiple zippered pockets, and two side pockets that can fit up to 32-ounce water bottles.
15+ styles available
A classic design that never goes out of style, this lightweight backpack is great for ever day use, has a large compartment to fit books and notebooks, and offers fully padded back and shoulder straps.
20+ colors/patterns available
Known for their durability and size, these backpacks are designed for maximum storage efficiency. Plus, it comes with reinforced metal dual zippers to keep their valuables safely tucked away.
10+ patterns available
Why You Can Count on Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Gianna Aldana, Commerce Editorial Assistant
As the Everymom’s Commerce Editorial Assistant, Gianna assists The Everymom editors in the production of new and existing articles, pitches and writes new content, and sources product for shopping listicles. With writing being one of her absolute passions, she enjoys sharing her expertise in all things related to fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Before working at The Everymom, Gianna found her purpose in editorial content creation through internships at Bump Club and Beyond and The Pretty Palm Leaf Event Company.