Back-to-school style isn’t limited to the clothes you buy for your dorm closet — finding the perfect, functional backpack is just as important. Start your 2022 school year off right by getting the book bag that fits your aesthetic, as well as all your essentials. We’ve rounded up 15 of the best backpacks that are both fashionable and functional, and will help you strut your stuff this semester.
1. JANSPORT x STRANGER THINGS COLLAB ($60)
You know what’s bitchin’? The new Jansport collab with Netflix’s Stranger Things. If you loved watching season 4, streaming endless loops of Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)” and picking up your own Hellfire Club T-shirt, then of course, this is a must. The Sierra Madre Upside Down design is a uniquely reversible bag. On one side exists the dark teal color with a note from Mike and EL and the flip side is black, representing the Upside Down where all the creepy creatures crawl. Other designs include the Superbreak Plus Eleven and the Field Pack Demogorgon Hunter.
2. VANS OLD SKOOL H2O BACKPACK ($40)
Calling all skater girls, grab your classic Vans Old Skool H20 in “Trippy Floral,” “Checkerboard Mellow Yellow,” “Pastel Check,” and beyond. With a laptop sleeve, water bottle holder, front pocket, and padded straps, this option is simple, effective, and rad. Plus, you’ll have a good excuse to get matching Vans slip-ons, too.
3. LOVEVOOK Grey Backpack ($34.99)
LOVEVOOK’s grey backpack is the epitome of style and grace. Its brown leather straps and gray, waterproof nylon provides a sleek and comfortable design. For those who have a lot to carry in their bag, rest assured, this option has a whopping 19 pockets, including one for your laptop. There’s even an external USB port for easy charging on the go, which is especially handy if you’re the girl who tends to let her phone get down to 1% on the regular.
4. HERSCHEL NOVA BACKPACK ($69.99)
Vancouver-based Herschel Supply Co. is known for their exquisite travel bags, totes, and beyond. Their mid-volume Nova backpack includes a laptop sleeve and comes in myriad colors and designs including purple, florals, cheetah-print, marbled, and more. Uniquely, there are two handles on top for carrying your bag without the shoulder straps, should that be preferred.
5. BAGSMART College Backpack ($35.99)
Do you have a schedule that’ll keep you on campus from morning until evening? No worries! BAGSMART has you covered with their insulated lunch compartment feature. Its water-resistant fabric, cute quilted design, laptop sleeve, charging port, multiple pockets, and more make it the perfect bag for school, work, travel, and other activities. We love a bag that can work in every situation.
6. Terra thread Executive Work Tote Bag ($48.99)
If you’re looking for a stylish and sustainable backpack alternative, look no further than the Terra Thread Executive Work Tote. Crafted from Certified Fairtrade Organic cotton canvas, this bag has internal laptop and water bottle compartments, is machine washable, and helps people in need. In fact, every Terra Thread purchase supports Feeding America. Look good and feel good, too!
7. universal thread Soft Utility Square Backpack ($35)
Looking for a book bag that’s not like the rest? This pack has a square design and can easily become a handbag with its handles located on top. Target’s Universal Thread brand offers the bag in black and white stripes, floral, yellow, green, and more. You are sure to find the right one to pair with your casual, bohemian style.
8. Wild Fable Full Square Backpack ($25)
Color block patterns are always in season. This multicolored check backpack will help you show off your bright side and make a statement. With two side pockets, one front pocket, and organizational compartments on the inside, you will be able to put all your essentials in convenient areas.
9. Baggu duck bag ($34)
If you are in the market for a trusty tote bag to use across campus, BAGGU has the accessories for you. The brand’s Duck Bag sits tall and is perfect for sliding in heavy books and laptops in a cinch. Hold it like a handbag or let it sit on your shoulder– the choice is yours. You’ll also have the option to pick from several floral patterns, modern prints, etc. We just adore this groovy, retro green and white design.
10. Please recycle backpack ($82)
Have you ever used a backpack to the fullest extent and felt guilty throwing it away? Well, the “Please Recycle Backpack” on Girlfriend Collective solves that problem. The minimalist bag is made of 100% recycled plastic bottle material and can be sent to ReGirlfriend to have another life after you’re done with it. Being chic and sustainable is just that easy.
11. The North Face Women’s Borealis Backpack ($99)
If you’re a regular traveler, a college athlete, or you’re just active all day, every day a North Face backpack just makes sense. The Women’s Borealis has two large water bottle pockets on either side, multiple large pockets, a laptop sleeve, shoulder straps, back pads certified by the American Chiropractic Association, a whistle on the buckle strap, and much more. It’s sure to be a great bag both in the gym and in the classroom.
12. KAVU BUCkner Backpack ($110)
Outdoor-loving girlies can pick up the Buckner by Seattle-based KAVU. By the week, it can hold laptops, tablets, notes, and books galore. By the weekend, it is sturdy and comfortably crafted for long hikes. You can definitely have it both ways.
13. ADIDAS ORIGINALS UTILITY 4.5 BACKPACK ($65)
You will undoubtedly stay hydrated with this Adidas book bag as it has two side pockets that can each hold 1-liter water bottles. With white recycled material and pink accents, it’s perfectly chic and effective to hold heavy homework loads, phone chargers, snacks, and more.
14. The ReNew Transit Backpack ($85)
Available on Everlane, this ReNew Transit Backpack is ideal for jet-setting students who have to travel often. This bag was made with TSA in mind with its exterior laptop pocket. Plus, you can pat yourself on the back for buying sustainably, as this is comprised of recycled polyester. The White Sage / Green Millieu color pattern is eye-catching, but not overpowering.
15. Fjallraven, Kanken Classic Backpack for Everyday ($74.67)
We all know about the iconic rectangular design of Fjallraven bags. They are a hot item because their product is just that good. Amazon has the Kanken stocked in multiple colors including black, navy, yellow, mint, turquoise, and the list goes on.
Wherever you go, your backpack is sure to follow this school year so make sure to stock up on one that’s functional and chic.