Best Backpacks for Middle School

10 Best Backpacks for Middle School in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

(Last Updated On: February 2, 2023)

Are you shopping for the best middle school backpack? Or maybe you’re a middle school kid yourself and you’re shopping for a brand new back-to-school bag deserving of your school supplies, and functional as well. It’s wise to invest in a backpack that can hold more school supplies, and provide enough protection to protect the shoulders of children.

There is nothing else more important for both parents and children than looking for a new backpack for the coming school year, although it may be hard to find one that ticks off all boxes. You’re going to need it to be sturdy such that you’re not going to have to replace it every now and then, and good looking so kids will actually take care of it. Our choices should be durable enough to last through high school for years and come with lots of color options to make it stand out.

In a Hurry? The test winners after 11 hrs of research

Galaxy Backpack for Middle School

Galaxy Backpack for Middle School – Premium Pick

Why is it better?

  • It is sturdy and comfortable to wear
  • Reflective strips on the shoulder straps
  • This backpack has a pocket for everything and keeps it secure so it doesn’t drop to the bottom of the bag
  • The middle compartment has several small pouches for pens

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YOREPEK Middle School Backpack – Best Value

Why is it better?

  • The bag itself is lightweight
  • Has a lot of pockets for organization
  • Elasticized pockets for water bottles
  • The straps are well padded

Best Backpacks for Middle School – Overview

Getting a quality middle school backpack that fits your educational needs is essential. A backpack should be strong enough to carry heavy books, and it should be easy enough to wear between classes. Whatever your style or special requirements is, there’s a backpack for you out there. This is why we’ve selected the best backpacks for middle school that should fit you or your children’s specific needs.

Backpacks for Middle School Reviews

1. Goozo Laptop Middle School Backpack

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The Goozo Laptop Middle School Backpack is made of tear-resistant oxford fabric and polyester lining. This backpack has a total of 6 compartments, one main pocket with a laptop sleeve and one zip pocket, two front zip pockets, and two side pockets.

The USB charging port and charging cable inside, When you carry our backpack outside, you have a convenient way to charge your electronic device even you are walking. This backpack is not only good for middle school but also perfect for biking, hiking, camping, walking. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best backpacks for college students with laptops.

Key Features:

  • USB charging port
  • Made of tear-resistant oxford fabric and polyester lining
  • 6 compartments

Specifications:

  • Brand: Goozo
  • Capacity: 30L
  • Dimensions: 17.3″ H x 5.2″ W x 11.3″ D
  • Weight: 1.52 lbs
Pros
  • The largest pouch is spacious enough hold text books, binders, and books
  • The flap that covers the three areas is also great because when it rains, the water never even reaches the zippers
  • There are also two side pockets that can hold a few pencils and the like
  • The zipper of the bag is very smooth and comfortable to use
Cons
  • The clips are not that of high quality

2. BLUBOON Canvas Middle School Backpack

BLUBOON Canvas Middle School Backpack

The BLUBOON Canvas Middle School Backpack comes with a beautiful matching 3 pieces set with a cute stripe design. The shoulder purse has an adjustable strap to be carried as an across body bag or over the shoulder. The shoulder bag can put a small notebook or iPad Mini. The small bag can either be used as a wallet or pencil kit depending on your desires.

The backpack has padded adjustable straps and padded back that make it comfortable to carry. It is a lightweight backpack and perfect for everyday school and casual day trips. The main inner compartment of the backpack can put notebooks, books, 2 side pockets can carry a water bottle and an umbrella, 1 front pocket with buckle closure perfect for a wallet. Make sure you also check our selection of the best canvas backpacks.

Key Features:

  • Padded laptop compartment
  • Padded adjustable straps
  • 3 pieces set

Specifications:

  • Brand: BLUBOON
  • Capacity: 22L
  • Dimensions: 17.7″ H x 6.7″ W x 13.8″ D
  • Weight: 1.65 lbs
Pros
  • The lunch bag is lined with a smooth metallic material, which makes it easy to clean
  • Very cute and stylish
  • It is large enough for books and supplies
  • Pencil case is oversized so you can store pens, pencils glue stick, markers and a lot more
Cons
  • The large zipper part of the bag has a flap that lays over the zipper so you have to pull the flap back to get to the zipper

3. Arya Backpack for Middle School

Arya Backpack for Middle School

The Arya Backpack for Middle School is made with high-quality nylon fabric and polyester fabric. The design is made of fur ball hanging and decorated rainbow ribbon. It is equipped with pockets for water bottles, umbrella and other school supplies, and a storage compartment for laptops up to 15.4 inches.

Adjustable shoulder straps and padded back cushions relieve stress on your neck and shoulders. The Arya stylish bookbag is a heavy-duty backpack suitable for those who like casual, an extension of your personal style. It is your perfect choice to carry it in class or studying in the library.

Key Features:

  • Can hold a 15.4-inch laptop
  • External USB port with built-in charging cable
  • Furball hanging design
  • Made of 80% Nylon and 20% Polyester

Specifications:

  • Brand: Arya
  • Capacity: 20L
  • Dimensions: 16.5″ H x 6.3″ W x 11.8″ D
  • Weight: 1.58 lbs
Pros
  • Straps are held together well
  • Durable yet stylish
  • USB port is useful
  • The flap that goes over the top is a great security feature
Cons
  • The zipper pulls are not very strong

4. Galaxy Backpack for Middle School – Premium Pick

Galaxy Backpack for Middle School

Galaxy Backpack for Middle School is a premium backpack that is made with active kids in mind; tested with tough boys and girls, approved by Moms. This pack is made with trend-setting and premium durable 900-denier polyester. The large front compartment of this Galaxy backpack includes a zipped pocket for keys/IDs, an extra pocket for a large pencil pouch, pen organizers, and a large space to fit several notebooks.

The center main compartment includes an internal 15” laptop sleeve with a thick Velcro closure and space for textbooks, tablets, notebooks, 3-ring binders, snow pants, and a packable jacket. Deep side pockets to hold water bottles, umbrellas, and other packable so that they don’t fall out easily.

Key Features:

  • 900-denier polyester
  • Well-padded back panel
  • 3 large compartments
  • Reflector strips on front and back
  • Reinforced bottom

Specifications:

  • Brand: F FENRICI
  • Dimensions: 18″ H x 13″ W x 9″ D
  • Weight: 1.25 lbs
Pros
  • It is sturdy and comfortable to wear
  • Reflective strips on the shoulder straps
  • This backpack has a pocket for everything and keeps it secure so it doesn’t drop to the bottom of the bag
  • The middle compartment has several small pouches for pens
Cons
  • Not the smoothest zippers

5. JanSport Big Student Backpack

JanSport Big Student Backpack

The JanSport Big Student Backpack is a backpack with lots of pockets. These are particularly useful for middle school, high school or college students where carrying large books and many different items ranging from digital tools to snacks become the norm. Large backpacks for college are a must today, plain and simple.

Some may think that big backpacks are just too large, but the style and prints will make the student forget the size because JanSport make oversized backpacks look cool. Featuring two large main compartments, a front utility pocket with organizer, a zippered front stash pocket, a pleated front stash pocket, and a water bottle side pocket.

Key Features:

  • Ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps
  • Front utility pocket with organizer
  • Fully padded back panel
  • Pleated front stash pocket
  • Side water bottle pocket

Specifications:

  • Brand: JanSport
  • Capacity: 34L
  • Dimensions: 17.5″ H x 13″ W x 10″ D
  • Weight: 1.54 lbs
Pros
  • The organization pockets are great
  • The straps are large and easy to adjust
  • There are 2 big compartments to organize and for easy access of your things inside
  • The strap on the back is very durable very well design for having to carry some heavy stuffs
Cons
  • The pouches only have one zipper instead of two way zippers

6. YOREPEK Middle School Backpack – Best Value

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The YOREPEK Middle School Backpack carries everything you need and more, with extra-large capacity and big, roomy pockets. Reasonable pockets make everything easy to organize, it has separate space for your pens, cards, laptop, etc. A good choice for school, student, travel and outdoor sports.

Multi-panel Airflow system provides relief when carrying heavy loads, less stress on your shoulders. Elasticized pockets on both sides to secure your water bottles and compact umbrella. The school backpack features a padded back panel and S-design wide and thick shoulder straps for cushioned comfort, even during extended use or under extra-heavy loads. Compact shape perfect for necessary school supplies and travel outing items. The kind of design is good for your body and your health. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best backpacks for middle school girls.

Key Features:

  • Front utility pocket
  • Organizer pocket
  • Laptop sleeve
  • Adjustable shoulder straps
  • Elasticized pockets for water bottles

Specifications:

  • Brand: YOREPEK
  • Dimensions: 17.5″ H x 5″ W x 13″ D
  • Weight: 1.2 lbs
Pros
  • The bag itself is lightweight
  • Has a lot of pockets for organization
  • Elasticized pockets for water bottles
  • The straps are well padded
Cons
  • Might be too small for some students with lots of school items

7. VBIGER Middle School Backpack

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The VBIGER Middle School Backpack is made of high quality, waterproof, lightweight nylon fabric, wear-resistance and durable enough. The widening shoulder strap with plastic buckle to adjustable and the straps are padded to make shoulder comfortable. This school bag is perfect for daily use.

This kids school backpack has a stylish appearance, suitable for any kid’s preference. It comes with a large compartment with double ultra-smooth zippers and multi-purpose pockets, enough room to hold and well organize your kid’s folding umbrella, water bottle, notebooks, and stationery.

Key Features:

  • 2 mesh padded shoulder straps
  • Multi-purpose pockets
  • Made of nylon fabric

Specifications:

  • Brand: VBIGER
  • Capacity: 32L
  • Dimensions: 18.2″ H x 4.8″ W x 11.8″ D
  • Weight: 1.68 lbs
Pros
  • The interior has plenty of space for multiple large books
  • This is a very cute, nice size kid’s back
  • The zippers are heavy class, and has really cute hanging decorations
  • The handle and straps are thick & don’t strain or stretch with a lot of weight
Cons
  • The part of the straps that would touch your shoulders is a scratchy mesh fabric

8. Herschel Pop Quiz Classic Backpack

Herschel Pop Quiz Classic Backpack

The Herschel Pop Quiz Classic Backpack is one of Herschel supply’s most popular backpack silhouettes. Its multiple storage pockets and organizers cater to all your work or school needs while staying true to the Hershel supply signature style This pack features contrasting eco-friendly leather detailing at the bottom and zippers.

With a large 22 liter main compartment, this backpack features a convenient 15″ padded laptop sleeve, a fleece-lined accessory pocket, a media slot with a headphone jack, and Herschel’s custom interior lining. The small front pocket has a waterproof zipper, mesh organizers, and a key clip so you can gain easy access to your most-used accessories.

Key Features:

  • Padded and fleece-lined 15″ laptop sleeve
  • Front pocket with internal organizers and key clip
  • Fleece-lined sunglasses compartment
  • Internal media pocket with headphone port

Specifications:

  • Brand: Herschel
  • Capacity: 22L
  • Dimensions: 17.5″ H x 11.75″ W x 6″ D
  • Weight: 1.44 lbs
Pros
  • The bag is stylish and clean looking
  • The inside of the main pocket is a very soft materia
  • The pockets come with waterproof zipper covers
  • The colors are vibrant
Cons
  • There are only 4 pockets, including the main big pocket, on the bag

9. Hynes Eagle Middle School Backpack

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Hynes Eagle is a leading practical fashion-forward bag brand in relentless pursuit of a better journey for every customer. The Hynes Eagle Middle School Backpack is no exception. The large main compartment is built with 1 soft padded laptop sleeve up to 15.6 inches. Designed with smooth side zippers, easy to access to the back compartment to take out your phone or other necessities when on the go.

The front organizer pockets come with multiple pockets to organize for your personal item, from notebook to wallet. It also has dual side drink pockets to store your laptop charge, optic mouse, water bottle, coffee mug or fold-able umbrella. Lastly, it offers a foam-padded top handle, which enhance carrying comfort and experience.

Key Features:

  • Quick access side zipper
  • Front organizer pockets
  • Top handle
  • Side pocket
  • Smooth double zipper

Specifications:

  • Brand: Hynes Eagle
  • Dimensions: 17.3″ H x 12.9″ W x 7.8″ D
  • Weight: 1.43 lbs
Pros
  • Perfect for a day a school but also lightweight and cool enough for a day outting
  • Good amount of pockets, holds a lot
  • Very sturdy
  • Very comfortable to carry
Cons
  • The side bottle holders are not very secure

10. Under Armour Boys Storm Scrimmage Backpack

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Gear up your middle school kid for a busy day at school with the Under Armour Boys Storm Scrimmage Backpack. This bag is made to resist the elements with a Durable Water Repellant finish and UA Storm® technologies designed to keep gear dry and secure from the weather. This technology repels water without sacrificing breathability.

The UA Scrimmage bag has several internal and external pockets and side mesh pockets to keep your little one organized on their way to school and more. The soft-lined laptop sleeve holds up to a 15” MacBook Pro or similarly sized laptop. Other features include an adjustable HeatGear shoulder straps and a padded back panel for comfort.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable HeatGear shoulder straps
  • Padded back panel for total comfort
  • 2 zip-shut main compartments with 1 quick-stash pocket at the front
  • Mesh water bottle pocket on both sides
  • Top grip handle

Specifications:

  • Brand: Under Armour
  • Capacity: 26.5L
  • Dimensions: 18″ H x 12″ W x 8.5″ D
  • Weight: 1.11 lbs
Pros
  • The straps are soft and comfortable
  • There are plenty of different sections to keep things organized well
  • This backpack is very sturdy and very well made
  • The zippers glide perfectly and don’t get caught or snag
Cons
  • The pack doesn’t seem super deep/fat

Buying Guide

Durability

The mix of external fabrics, inner padding, straps, zippers, and closures will act together for the proper functionality of the backpack. Therefore all these backpack features should be durable and wear and tear-resistant.

Comfort

The backpack will be an important part of the day for you or your child; it will carry their weight and go along with him. The backpack should also be incredibly easy to use, ergonomically built, and well-padded to support both the back and shoulders.

Materials

A wide variety of materials have been used for making backpacks from cotton canvas to nylon, polyester, and leather; there are also backpacks made from environmentally sustainable fabrics such as hemp. The material you pick for your backpack has to be lightweight, but robust, weather-proof, and easy to clean.

Size

One thing important especially when purchasing middle school backpacks is the size. The bag should be easy for them to wear without being too large or too thin and should be compact enough to fit their school gear: books, notebooks, pencils, markers, etc.

Style

Style is an aspect that represents your personality that can never be overlooked for backpacks. It will be a part of your personality, as long as you take it to classes. A mix of a strong color match with the right materials is all that’s needed to make trendy in the most simple of backpacks. So, when you buy your bag, what you need is to select your persona from the available options.

Frequently Ask Questions

How big should a middle school backpack be?

A school backpack with a capacity of 20-30l is more than enough for middle school kids. This will have enough space for several books, notebooks, pens, and other supplies.

What is the best backpack for 6th grade?

The Galaxy Backpack for Middle School is an excellent pick because it boasts a number of pockets for the organization as well as comfortable straps since your kid will be carrying their bag all day. It also features reflective strips on its straps for safety at night.

What is the most durable backpack brands?

Swissgear, North Face, JanSport, and Herschel are some of the most durable brands not only for school but for traveling as well. They have proven over the years of their bags durability to withstand use and abuse.

Do you need a backpack for middle school?

Middle school is where the responsibility of carrying big books and a variety of learning aids such as calculators, rulers, notepads, and other equipment is applied to kids. Therefore, you need to make sure that your kid has a bag that can hold up against everything that middle school can throw at them.

Conclusion

We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best backpacks for middle school as well as our guide on features to look for in a backpack for middle school. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.