Best College Backpacks for Guys

10 Best College Backpacks for Guys in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

(Last Updated On: February 2, 2023)

The best college backpack for guys should provide some of the best qualities a backpack can have. This means they have to be robust because it is going to be almost 24/7 for you and it will take a pounding, no matter how careful you are about it. To ensure academic success, it has to be well-organized so you don’t have time to rummage around for papers or miss a significant handout. This has to be spacious, as your laptop, chargers, books, documents, and workout clothing will be crammed to the max and whatever other items you have. You don’t want to use your middle school or high school backpack, don’t you?

As a guy, nothing is more important than being ready. This means setting a budget to take you across the year, considering your course choices, and purchasing equipment-and one of the biggest items you need to purchase is a backpack when it comes to buying equipment. The college board suggests several things for your college years, like a backpack, so why not pick the right one! And if you’re in grad school, you might like our selection of grad school backpacks.

In a Hurry? The test winners after 8 hrs of research

Timbuk2 Parkside College Backpack

Timbuk2 Parkside College Backpack – Premium Pick

Why is it better?

  • The backpack layout works, it’s practical and intuitive
  • Zippers and pouch stitching seem quality and not cheap
  • Can be a book bag, gym bag or travel bag
  • It has an urban look

AmazonBasics Laptop College Backpack

AmazonBasics Laptop College Backpack – Best Value

Why is it better?

  • A lot of storage options
  • Does not sag downwards like some other bags
  • Large laptop section fits multiple sizes of laptops comfortably
  • Water-resistant against light rain

Best College Backpacks for Guys- Overview

Do you want to talk about dealing with a backpack that is too small or totally disorganized as you look back at your college time? Clearly not. There are plenty of backpacks specially designed for college students. Like waterproof backpacks for college, laptop backpacks for college. But in this guide are 10 of the best college backpacks for guys from backpacks with laptop covers to backpacks built to carry smelly workout clothing.

College Backpacks for Guys Reviews

1. Timbuk2 Parkside College Backpack – Premium Pick

Timbuk2 Parkside College Backpack

The Timbuk2 Parkside College Backpack is dressed up but not fussy. The clever pocketing provides a place for all your phone, cards, keys and the laptop sleeves carries up to a 15-inch MacBook Pro. It also has a secure zip pocket for cables, earbuds, stylus, cards, cash, etc. For optimum comfort, it comes with a ventilated back panel to give your back breathing room.

Its roomy main compartment can accommodate layers and a pair of shoes, and its external water bottle pocket doubles as a u-lock holder for days you get to ride. Other features include an on-strap bottle opener for party tricks and a vista loop for attaching blinky bike lights.

Key Features:

  • Custom-fit strap design
  • On-strap bottle opener 
  • Vista loop for bike lights
  • Front zip pocket for keeping small items in check
  • Elasticized external side pocket for water bottle

Specifications:

  • Brand: Timbuk2
  • Capacity: 25L
  • Dimensions: 18.1″ H x 10.6″ W x 7.3″ D
  • Weight: 1.6 lbs
Pros
  • The backpack layout works, it’s practical and intuitive
  • Zippers and pouch stitching seem quality and not cheap
  • Can be a book bag, gym bag or travel bag
  • It has an urban look
Cons
  • Laptop sleeve not padded

2. AmazonBasics Laptop College Backpack – Best Value

AmazonBasics Laptop College Backpack

The perfect budget-friendly backpack for college guys. The AmazonBasics Laptop College Backpack was designed to protect and hold your laptop while on the move. The backpack features multiple storage compartments and features for additional supplies and accessories. When you travel with your computer, there is no need to bring an additional bag or sleeve. The padded interior features a separate interior space that is able to hold up to 17-inch laptops and notebook computers.

The backpack also has a smaller pouch for tablets. The AmazonBasics backpack’s adjustable, heavily padded, shoulder straps make the backpack comfortable to wear even when loaded with all your gear. A mesh compartment on the left strap provides a quick-access space for cell phones or other small items.

Key Features:

  • Large multi-compartment design
  • Padded laptop sleeve
  • Side mesh water bottle pockets
  • Padded shoulder straps

Specifications:

  • Brand: AmazonBasics
  • Dimensions: 19.3″ H x 13.4″ W x 7″ D
  • Weight: 1.98 lbs
Pros
  • A lot of storage options
  • Does not sag downwards like some other bags
  • Large laptop section fits multiple sizes of laptops comfortably
  • Water-resistant against light rain
Cons
  • Water bottle pouches are small, and require some shoehorning

3. JanSport Hatchet College Backpack

JanSport Hatchet College Backpack

Take the road with your laptop and other school needs stashed inside this JanSport flap-top bag. The JanSport Hatchet College Backpack is made of sturdy polyester fabric and includes a compact build with a compact main compartment, a laptop sleeve that acts as a hydration sleeve, and a knitted lined pocket to carry your iPad or phone.

Detailed with a padded back panel and fully padded shoulder straps for additional support, this backpack includes two side water bottle pockets, a front zipper pocket to stash frequently used items, an internal zippered mesh pocket, and an organizer to hold all sorts of small items. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best JanSport backpacks.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable sternum strap
  • Dual side water bottle pockets
  • Fully padded shoulder straps and back panel
  • Internal zippered mesh pocket
  • Deluxe organizer panel
  • Side compression straps

Specifications:

  • Brand: JanSport
  • Capacity: 28L
  • Dimensions: 18″ H x 12″ W x 8″ D
  • Weight: 1.41 lbs
Pros
  • There are many pockets so you can compartmentalize everything
  • The bag has more than adequate strap adjustment to be very comfortable
  • The mesh pocket inside the top flap is great for organizing charging cords
  • The outside pocket on the flap is great for your phone
Cons
  • The opening is smaller than the width of the actual backpack

4. MATEIN Laptop College Backpack

MATEIN Laptop College Backpack

The MATEIN Laptop College Backpack is the choice for guys who wants a pack with plenty of organization. One spacious packing compartment roomy for daily necessities, tech electronics accessories and a front compartment with many pockets, pen pockets and key fob hook make your items organized and easier to find.

Comfortable airflow back design with thick but soft multi-panel ventilated padding gives you maximum back support. Breathable and adjustable shoulder straps relieve the stress of the shoulder. Other notable features include a foam-padded top handle and a hidden anti-theft pocket on the back to protect your valuable items from thieves.

Key Features:

  • Airflow back design
  • Breathable and adjustable shoulder straps
  • Hidden anti-theft pocket
  • Built-in USB charger outside 
  • Luggage strap

Specifications:

  • Brand: MATEIN
  • Dimensions: 18″ H x 12″ W x 7.8″ D
  • Weight: 1.56 lbs
Pros
  • There is so much padding on the straps and back
  • The side pockets can fit huge water bottles
  • It has a lot of pockets inside for organizing
  • Back bottom contains a zipper pouch to keep important things away from the front to prevent theft
Cons
  • No padding on bottom, thereby can damaged things like laptops if dropped too hard

5. OUTJOY College Backpack for Men

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OUTJOY College Backpack for Men is made of premium waterproof polyester fabric materials, that could withstand outer various environmental factors. This backpack has an extra waterproof rain cover, is a helpful protector to safeguard your backpack and your values. The backpack is roomy enough and well-made, which has assorted pockets to organize your daily necessity.

Both the backpack’s back panel and shoulder strap are using cushioned and breathable pads covered by mesh to make it more breathable and comfortable and easy to carry around. Includes three dedicated main roomy spaces with well-made pockets fit and organize your daily items. With a humane design, like a detachable key chain, elastic mesh side pocket for bottle, padded laptop sleeve. All in all, this backpack functions well, definitely meet your all demands for your travel or business.

Key Features:

  • Includes Rain Cover
  • USB Charging Port
  • Roomy Space with well-made pockets
  • Comfortable Breathable Back Pads/Shoulder Straps
  • Dedicated Laptop Compartment with shockproof Airbag

Specifications:

  • Brand: OUTJOY
  • Dimensions: 19″ H x 12″ W x 9.8″ D
  • Weight: 2 lbs
Pros
  • The padding for the lower back is amazing
  • Tons of room and organized space
  • It has a lower strap system to buckle form the back to the front to help secure the backpack centered on your back
  • The zipper is quite thick
Cons
  • Not a lot of color options

6. Timbuk2 the Authority Pack

Timbuk2 the Authority Pack

If your college requires a lot of stuff and you like order but prefer not to look too stuffy, put the Timbuk2 the Authority Pack on your back. It’s a bring everything you need bag; pockets big and small makes sense of everything your day job and side gig require. And it feels good thanks to the backpack straps and a super cush grab handle.

Rear access padded compartment fits up to a 17″ computer including a 1″ suspension gap for extra protection for your device while giving more space in the main compartment for your other stuff. Bottom compression straps allow you to keep your jacket, sweater, yoga mat, etc outside the bag. Pair that with a beautiful base fabric, tuck-away sternum straps, and an air mesh back panel that keeps your dress shirt dry.

Key Features:

  • Internal organizer for pens, phones, and other small stuff
  • Rear access to laptop pocket
  • Grab handle for easy lifting
  • Side Neoprene pocket

Specifications:

  • Brand: Timbuk2
  • Capacity: 28L
  • Dimensions: 18.1″ H x 10.2″ W x 5.9″ D
  • Weight: 2.4 lbs
Pros
  • The additional storage space is just right for a few accessories and papers
  • Many functional pockets
  • The straps and back panel are built well and are comfy
  • The waterproof material is really sleek and funtional
Cons
  • There are some internal pockets, but only 1 small zippered internal pocket

7. VASCHY Casual College Backpack for Men

VASCHY Casual College Backpack for Men

The VASCHY Casual College Backpack for Men is a fashion statement, which is as functional as how good it looks. This pack is a heavy-duty backpack suitable for those who like casual. The unique design is a fashion statement. Its durable material is recommended for students often bringing their college textbooks and notebooks. Shoppers similarly will find comfort with the use of this backpack for their regular grocery shopping.

This college pack is made of high-quality waterproof lightweight Polyester and Smooth SBS zipper. The vintage design features a color block zipper to the main compartment. Two leather buckles on the front pocket. Leather top handle and two water bottle pockets on both sides. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable shoulder straps
  • Water-resistant
  • Smooth SBS zipper
  • Two water bottle or umbrella pocket on the side

Specifications:

  • Brand: Vaschy
  • Capacity: 26.5L
  • Dimensions: 18″ H x 12.8″ W x 7″ D
  • Weight: 1.06 lbs
Pros
  • A lot of pockets
  • There’s a clip to keep your keys
  • The straps are held on by really strong magnets
  • The size of this bag compliment well to the busiest of students
Cons
  • The laptop compartment of the bag is criminally under-padded

8. YOREPEK Extra Large College Backpack

YOREPEK Extra Large College Backpack

The YOREPEK Extra Large College Backpack comes with 20+ independent organizer pockets that could meet your various needs, which is perfect for day-to-day use and occasional travel. Equipped with 3 large main compartments with rugged oversized metal zippers, adjustable side compression straps, a heavily padded back panel with airflow ventilation technology, padded contour shaped shoulder straps with mesh fabric.

The laptop compartment has an adjustable velcro strap to fit different laptop sizes and quick entry access. External USB with built-in charging cable offers convenient charging of your USB enabled electronic devices whether, on a business or leisure trip, you can charge your phone and other Micro-USB devices easily and conveniently without opening up the backpack.

Key Features:

  • Comfortable sturdy handle
  • Padded back panel with airflow
  • Front organizer compartment
  • Adjustable shoulder straps

Specifications:

  • Brand: YOREPEK
  • Capacity: 45L
  • Dimensions: 19.5″ H x 15″ W x 10.4″ D
  • Weight: 2.3 lbs
Pros
  • Laptop pocket which is padded and has pocket on the opposite side for your cable
  • The zippers go very far down which appeals to some people
  • Smaller outside pocket that has an organizer to put pens, cliff bars, whatever
  • Backpack is able to stand up by itself
Cons
  • The shoulder pads are a bit uncomfortable when packed full

9. HotStyle College Backpack for Guys

HotStyle College Backpack for Guys

Tired of those skimpy backpacks that quickly fall apart at the seams? Upgrade to the HotStyle College Backpack for Guys, ideal for school, college, work, travel, gym, hiking, camping, commuting, sports, day trips, and more. This better-made pack provides plenty of space for all your essential supplies with multiple sleeves and pouches to keep everything perfectly organized.

Plus, it resists wear & tear, stands up to stormy weather, and holds up to 16 lbs. It also holds tablets, phones, notepads, bottles, bulky binders, you name it. With its densely woven shell, rugged reinforced seams, and strong, supple faux-suede bottom, this backpack is built for the long haul.

Key Features:

  • Hidden zippered side pocket
  • Handy exterior port for earbuds
  • YKK zippers
  • Rugged faux-leather bottom

Specifications:

  • Brand: HotStyle
  • Capacity: 26L
  • Dimensions: 18″ H x 12.6″ W x 6″ D
  • Weight: 1.3 lbs
Pros
  • Has a lot of compartments
  • Has two net holders (one for a bottle and one for your umbrella, which is extremely convenient)
  • Very spacious and secure on the inside
  • The base of the backpack is very strong
Cons
  • The leather strap on the zippers can easily fall off

10. Amber & Ash Everyday College Backpack

Amber & Ash Everyday College Backpack

The Amber & Ash Everyday College Backpack is a versatile, sleek carrying solution to keep you organized in your everyday activities – whether you’re headed to school or to the office, traveling on an airplane, or just strolling through the city. Boasting 3 compartments: a large main compartment gives you plenty of space to carry everything you need with thoughtfully designed storage pockets to keep you organized, a separate expandable bottom compartment to store an extra pair of shoes, clothes, or your lunch, and a separate padded, faux-fur laptop sleeve compartment that will secure and protect up to a 15.6-inch laptop or tablet.

Six exterior pockets, including a hidden, quick access pocket for items like a wallet or phone, provide extra storage and accessibility to the items you need on the go. With a detachable strap system and optimized travel-friendly design, this backpack is a one-stop-shop for all of your back carrying needs. Our guide to the best edc backpacks offers more great products like this.

Key Features:

  • Padded laptop up to 15″
  • Hidden zipper pocket
  • Front slip pocket with hidden snap closure
  • Large bottom accessory pocket

Specifications:

  • Brand: Amber & Ash
  • Dimensions: 17″ H x 12″ W x 5″ D
  • Weight: 1.76 lbs
Pros
  • The bottom storage is perfect for a water bottle or if you have any tech cords
  • Inside is lined really nicely to help protect your laptop
  • Plenty of pockets that allows you to keep organized
  • Straps are padded for comfort
Cons
  • No side bottle holder

Buying Guide

Comfort

Just because a backpack is looking amazing doesn’t mean it would feel fantastic. You don’t want to end up with a bag grinding into your arms and straining your back while you pull around your supplies from school. Choose a bag that is not only the right size but features padded shoulder straps or an ergonomic feel.

Capacity

If you’re a bio major with a big load of books, research equipment, and a laptop to take on, you’ll want to find one that suits those requirements. It might be tempting to buy a random backpack to find out whether it’s going to fit for you later on, but don’t waste your time: figure out whether it’s large enough— too long enough— to carry it across the academic year

Compartments

Although some minimalist backpacks have a zipper opening with nothing inside, some are packed with various compartments for everything you need all day long. If you’re someone who likes staying organized, look for something that has pockets for a laptop or tablet, and a mesh drink holder on the side for your water bottle or coffee.

Style

If you’re looking for a sporty look or anything sleek and traditional, pay careful attention to all the details— from colors and fabrics to scale and shape — to find something that fits your specific style.

Durability

When you live in an environment where the weather is rainy all year round or has hard, harsh winters, so you want to invest in a backpack that won’t get broken the first time the weather happens. Zone in on the backpack’s fabrics and durability to ensure it’s holding up.

Conclusion

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