The best backpacks for high school students need to be strong, sturdy, lightweight & be able to hold a lot of school items like books. Although people have different preferences when it comes to backpacks, students usually have a specific set of needs. Different styles and brands are discussed in depth in this review so that you can determine best fits your needs.
Each student in high school carries a backpack containing their books, notebooks, electronic devices such as tablets and laptops, and all other necessities. Yet there are various backpacks available on the market with a range of features for high school students. It is important to select the right backpack so you can hold it easily and the bag stays strong for years. Gone are the days where you could use your beaten up elementary backpack.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 9 hrs of research
ProEtrade High School Backpack for Students – Best Value
Why is it better?
- Can fit binders, notebooks, textbooks, computers and plenty of other things in there
- The straps are comfortable and it holds so much weight without feeling like so much weight
- The fabric is a bit shiny but has texture
- It has over four zipper pockets and a spot for water bottle on the outside
Best Backpacks for High School Students – Overview
Hunting for the best backpacks for high school students can be challenging at times. While there are gender-specific backpacks for high school girls. It’s all a balance to find the right form, design, and size to match a bunch of different needs every day. We hope that our selection of the 10 best backpacks for high school students helps you in making the right purchase.
Backpacks for High School Students Reviews
1. MATEIN Laptop High School Backpack for Students
The MATEIN Laptop High School Backpack for Students not only has several compartments and pockets to keep all of your things secure and secured, but it’s also spacious enough to hold a 15.6-inch laptop. Along with a supportive soft padded strap, the water-resistant backpack features a hidden pocket at the back to keep your most precious things secure, plus a side-side USB charging port so you can charge on-the-go your electronics.
The multi-panel airflow system provides relief when carrying heavy loads which are especially important for students. This multipurpose backpack can also be used as a travel backpack aside from functioning merely as a school backpack. Lightweight, modern design, and affordable, you sure are to get your buck’s worth with this backpack!
Key Features:
- Laptop sleeve
- External USB charging port
- Anti-thief back pocket
- Padded shoulder and back straps
Specifications:
- Brand: Matein
- Dimensions: 18″ H x 12″ W x 7.8″ D
- Weight: 1.56 lbs
- Spacious main compartment
- There is so much padding on the straps and back
- It has a lot of pockets for organization
- Huge water bottle holder
- Much thicker laptops may not fit so well
2. High Sierra Fat Boy High School Backpack – Premium Pick
The High Sierra Fat Boy High School Backpack is a pack capable of swallowing your entire gear. The Fat Boy features a multi-compartment architecture with almost 2400 cubic inches of volume and superior structure. The stability incorporated into the strap of the shoulder, a padded back panel, and side support strap offer unrivaled protection when carrying heavy school materials.
S-shaped shoulder straps feature supportive Vapel mesh AirFlow padding with a suspension system and built-in media/cellphone pocket. Padded back panel for added comfort. Provides premium organization and a key fob in the forward zip pack. Two zippered compartments are spacious enough for all your everyday gear including books and papers.
Key Features:
- Large, multi-compartment design
- Premium organizer with multiple pockets and key fob
- Front zippered accessory pocket with USB port and internal cord pouch
- Mesh beverage pocket
- S-shaped mesh padded shoulder straps
Specifications:
- Brand: High Sierra
- Capacity: 39L
- Dimensions: 19.5″ H x 13″ W x 7″ D
- Weight: 1.6 lbs
- There are 2 large pouches and a mid size pouch that has a pocket, key ring and other storage compartments
- Made of very strong durable duralite material
- Each zipper has two ends and are very strong
- The straps are very comfortable, the clip in front with which to add heavy gear is very helpful
- There isn’t a mesh water bottle holder on this backpack
3. JanSport Superbreak Backpack
The JanSport Superbreak Backpack brings fresh, new colors and prints to the classic SuperBreak. With the same trusted silhouette, this backpack is a perfect companion for your everyday adventures. The backpack is available in more than 30 different colors and prints, perfect for every style of self-expression. Not too big and not too small, with one roomy compartment and one handy front pocket, this pack is just the right size for high school.
This lightweight pack is always ready to take on the day. Just gear up, grab and go. It’s water-repellent fabrics, coated interior and zippers keep your contents high and dry. With coated durable 600 denier fabric, these bags are 3x’s industry standard for abrasion and water repellency. This bag will always have your back.
Key Features:
- 2/3 padded back panel
- Front utility pocket with organizer
- One large main compartment
- Web haul handle
Specifications:
- Brand: JanSport
- Capacity: 25L
- Dimensions: 16.7″ H x 13″ W x 8.5″ D
- Weight: 0.75 lbs
- Comfortable to carry all day
- The shoulder straps are thick with foam and wide enough
- Very durable
- Stains are easy to wipe clean
- Made of thin material
4. ProEtrade High School Backpack for Students – Best Value
The ProEtrade High School Backpack for Students is made of high-quality Anti Scratch Fabric with water-resistant zipper design, it’s very sturdy, tear-resistant, water-resistant, Which can effectively prevent your belongings from the dust, rain, and dirt. Durable buckle and strong zippers make it even more durable and long-lasting. It has a total of 8 pockets for organization, from books to binders.
The night light-reflective design on the front and back of the backpack will keep all the users safe when using the backpack in the night or dark area. It also comes with an ergonomic design that S-Curved shoulder straps with breathable mesh and back panel with multi-layer sponge padding could protect your backbone and ease the bear load, help relieve the stress from your shoulder.
Key Features:
- 8 pockets total
- Night light-reflective design
- Ergonomic airflow system
- S-curved shoulder straps
Specifications:
- Brand: ProEtrade
- Dimensions: 18.5″ H x 13″ W x 8.5″ D
- Weight: 1.4 lbs
- Can fit binders, notebooks, textbooks, computers and plenty of other things in there
- The straps are comfortable and it holds so much weight without feeling like so much weight
- The fabric is a bit shiny but has texture
- It has over four zipper pockets and a spot for water bottle on the outside
- It has a crunchy plastic like feel beneath the fabric
5. JANSPORT Cool Student Backpack
The JANSPORT Cool Student Backpack has the classic Jansport backpack look, but with more space, Plus a synthetic leather Base. A water bottle pocket, 3 front zipper pockets, 15″ Laptop sleeve & 2 large main compartments easily carry your gear. Your every day, everywhere backpack: Jansport backpacks are popular At school for a reason.
With colors & style that reflect your personality, room for books, water bottles, laptops & sports gear, your Jansport goes from school to fun as quickly as you do. Other useful features of this pack are a pleated front stash pocket, web haul handle, premium synthetic leather bottom, and trims.
Key Features:
- Ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps
- Fully padded back panel
- Side water bottle pocket
- Internal 15” laptop sleeve
- Cord pullers
Specifications:
- Brand: JanSport
- Dimensions: 17.5″ H x 13″ W x 10″ D
- Weight: 1.32 lbs
- There are two deep sleeves for books and a laptop
- The weight is evenly distributed
- Leather stitching at the bottom reinforces the bottom
- Water bottle compartment hugs bottles really well
- The zippers are not the smoothest
6. ProEtrade Backpack for High School Galaxy
The ProEtrade Backpack for High School Galaxy is made of high-quality anti-scratch fabric with durable zipper design, it’s very sturdy, tear-resistant. It has a total of 9 pockets, 2 main compartments, 1 laptop compartment, 2 front zipped pocket, 1 inner pocket for keys, pen, 1 anti-theft pocket to protect your belongings, 1 glasses pocket & mesh pocket on straps.
The external USB charging port with built-in charging cable provides a convenient charging of your electronic device anywhere. The anti-theft back hidden pocket with zipper design will keep your valuable belongings such as credit cards or purse safe. Lastly, the night light-reflective design on the front of the backpack will keep you safe when you use the backpack in the night or dark area.
Key Features:
- Anti-theft hidden pocket
- Water bottle pocket
- Night light reflective
- USB charging port
Specifications:
- Brand: ProEtrade
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 12.5″ W x 8.5″ D
- Weight: 1.68 lbs
- Handle at the top feels soft and durable
- Padding on the back is nice and convenient as well as with the hidden pocket
- Enough pockets to fit everything you need
- The overall material does not feel cheap or thin
- While the mesh bottle holders feel durable, there is a feeling like this will be the first to rip at some point
7. Champion Men’s Champion Advocate Backpack
Just like the logo on this Champion Men’s Champion Advocate Backpack, you’ll have repeat success when you’ve got it on your back. A fully padded laptop compartment accommodates most 15-inch models. A dedicated tech sleeve provides an ideal space for your tablet or notebook.
A perfect-fitting pocket located at the front of the bag is ideal for quick access items like a cell phone or keys while keeping them secure. There is a sturdy suspension with padded neck and shoulder straps while carrying the heaviest of gear. It’s all in the details. The classic ‘C’ script logo is embroidered in Sherpa lining with zippers built tough to last.
Key Features:
- Pull-On closure
- Machine Wash
- Storage pockets
- Organizer pocket
- Top logo webbing
Specifications:
- Brand: Champion
- Dimensions: 18″ H x 11″ W x 6″ D
- Weight: 1.44 lbs
- The material is strong
- Cleans easily
- Student friendly design
- It has a dedicated laptop compartment
- This bag has a zipper design that is difficult to use sometimes
8. HFSX High School Laptop Backpack
The HFSX High School Laptop Backpack is made of water-resistant and durable polyester fabric with metal zippers that ensure a secure and long-lasting usage. One separate laptop compartment holds up to 15.6 inches and the main compartment with many pockets makes your items organized and easier to find.
Use the built-in USB cable to connect to your power bank. Comfortable back design with soft padding gives you maximum back support. And the breathable and adjustable shoulder straps relieve the stress of shoulder. This backpack can also be used as a travel backpack by a high school student.
Key Features:
- Headphone port
- Separate laptop compartment
- Well-padded shoulder straps
- Inside side pocket design
Specifications:
- Brand: HFSX
- Dimensions: 17″ H x 13.8″ W x 7.1″ D
- Weight: 1.65 lbs
- The zippers are a nice thick metal
- Slick appearance with plenty of space
- The different compartments are very nice and allow for quick stow of smartphone
- The laptop pocket is nicely padded
- The side pockets are a bit tight
9. Vaschy High School Student Backpack
The Vaschy High School Student Backpack is made of superior quality polyester. Polyester is the popular and ideal lightweight material for ultra-strong and heavy-duty backpacks. Polyester material is heat resistant, making it suitable for outdoor use. In terms of durability, polyester is resistant to shrinking and stretching.
Reinforced bottom and high detailing. This ensures that the base of the school backpack is durably covered. The added reinforcement protects the backpack. The SBS zippers allow the casual backpack to slide easily and smoothly. Vaschy school backpack delivers optimum comfort for your back with the full padding feature.
Key Features:
- Padded laptop compartment
- Reinforced bottom
- Water bottle pocket
- Earphone port
Specifications:
- Brand: Vaschy
- Dimensions: 17.1″ H x 13″ W x 1.9″ D
- Weight: 1.06 lbs
- The bag is overall roomy but doesn’t look huge
- There are two water bottle holders both sides
- The straps are very well cushioned and comfortable
- The backpack is made of a thick material that appears that it will hold up well with use
- The fabric on the bottom is a bit rough and cheap feeling
10. YOREPEK High School Backpack
The YOREPEK High School Backpack is made of waterproof and durable nylon fabric, make it possible to carry it in a drizzling day. This big student backpack has two main spacious packing compartments and two zip pockets in front. One of the main compartments is roomy for a 15.6-inch laptop. Another compartment enough for storing the majority of your textbooks, clothes, pencil case, daily supplies.
The reflective stripes make it easy to find and protect your student bookbag, so you can see your backpack in a crowded place or at night. The shoulder straps and soft ventilated padding are made from high elastic and breathable sponge and fabric.
Key Features:
- Waterproof material
- Reflective stripes
- Anti-theft zippers
- Comfortable straps
Specifications:
- Brand: YOREPEK
- Dimensions: 17.5″ H x 11.5″ W x 6.5″ D
- Weight: 1.08 lbs
- Durable material
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
- Cushioned straps
- A bit small in size if you are carrying a lot of books
Buying Guide
Size
School bags come in all sorts of sizes to fit students of all ages. Younger students will need a smaller backpack, while teenagers and students in high school will require generous-capacity packs. Check the size of the bag by reading on its measurements or liter-indicated. This will tell you what you need to know what the bag will hold, and whether it has extra room for your other necessities.
Specialized Compartments
Students require lots of school supplies and equipment. Examples of these are calculators, notebooks, pens, markers, and other important personal items that can easily get lost in a bag without proper compartments. This is why the students should use bags that have at least two or three compartments. A mesh pocket for an umbrella or water bottle is also one handy feature a god high school backpack can have.
Comfort
Books and notebooks weigh a lot on their own, so if you were to bear all of that equipment, you might be risking your health if you don’t have an ergonomically designed school backpack. Look for sturdy, padded straps; an S-shape, or a weighted pattern to help you maintain your balance while maintaining your posture even though your load is heavy.
Materials
The bag’s material is a strong indicator of the bag’s quality. Leather bags, for example, have very high longevity so they don’t break quickly. Cordura or polyester are other fabrics that often have high longevity. The material you pick will really depend on what kind of load you’re bringing and what your personal styling taste is.
Other Features
Several of the features you may want to include are waterproof material and UV proof. Waterproof bags are pretty good as they will prevent water to damage your laptop for example. Normally the water just will drip outside the bag. In comparison, UV proof bags shield your belongings from heavy sun heat. This is nice to keep your food safe from having too much heat.
Frequently Ask Questions
What kind of backpacks do high schoolers use?
Most high schoolers use large bags that can accommodate books, notebooks, laptops, pens and water bottles. Unlike college backpacks, which would be smaller because they wouldn’t need to carry plenty of books and just carry their notebook and laptop.
What is the best North Face backpack for high school?
Check out our detailed guide on choosing the best North Face backpacks for school, travel, or daily carry.
What is the best backpack for heavy books?
The ProEtrade High School Backpack for Students is our best pick for high schoolers carrying heavy books. It is made of durable materials that can stand the weight of books your child will carry.
What is the best JanSport backpack for high school?
The JanSport Superbreak Backpack is what we consider the best JanSport backpack for high school. Though you are free to read and pick the best one from our guide on the best JanSport backpacks.
Is a 20l backpack big enough for school?
While 20l might be ok, we like to go above 25l to make sure it can fit all their books, notebooks, and other school items. In addition to an internal organization inside the pack for their pens.
Conclusion
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best high school backpacks for students as well as our guide on features to look for in a high school backpack for students. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.