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Ideal Bags for University Life

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at New School chapter.

It’s been a month since the fall semester started. Sure back-to-school shopping may be over but it’s not too late to find the perfect functional bag for your school needs, or get another one. Here’s a list of a few bags that are popular around The New School. All of these bags are super spacious and can fit everything from your class needs to everyday necessities.

Longchamp: Le Pliage

It’s simple, waterproof, and comes in a variety of colors; perfect for the inner minimalist in us. There’s the classic shoulder bag and the slightly more expensive cross body, which is better for those who have heavier things to carry. However, this bag isn’t for you if you need a bit more structure, as you might have to fish around for your dorm keys under all the mess.. BUT, you could always use the inner pocket, found underneath the flap!

Kanken 15″

Also a bag that fits surprisingly a lot, is waterproof, and happens to be light, is the favorite Kanken. It comes in three sizes and a bunch of colors. There are darker colors, bright colors, neon, pastel, you name it! It can also be personalized to your liking! Just add a few pins or patches, and you’re good to go. It comes with a front pocket for easy access to whatever you may need, a rather thin compartment inside for a laptop, and two side pockets, perfect for a water bottle. Gotta stay hydrated in this heat. 

Herschel: Settlement

Yet another minimalist option, the Herschel. They have a few different styles and a lot of unique patterns, but lets stick with the simple option: the classic Settlement Backpack. It has a front pocket for quick and easy access to pens or your keys, and a section inside to protect your laptop.

Sloane Simple Backpack from UO

If you look around long enough you’ll definitely find something perfect at Urban Outfitters. Personally, I’m obsessed with their home decor, but we recently came across this backpack and felt it was worth a mention. Simple style, smooth leather, and a roomy compartment with pouches for your accessories… it also comes in black!

Marc by Marc Jacobs: Domo Arigato

On the designer end, another popular backpack is any from the MBMJ collection. They have amazing designs, they’re lightweight, and they have two front pockets. There’s not asection for your laptop, but they’re spacious enough to fit your own case. They also have nylon and leather options!

The New School Tote

How could we not mention The New School tote? It fits a lot, it’s light, it has an inner zip pocket, and it’s perfect for school spirit! You can rep the university or rep your college. There’s totes for Lang, Parsons, and the Performing Arts school. You can buy one at the New School Store, found in the University Center, or head to the online shop. The New School totes are also a perfect way to show off when you go to study in the NYU Bobst library. Speaking of studying, check out our best study spots article!

Elizabeth Tracey

New School '21

Annemarie Imnadze is an undeclared freshman and Co-Campus Correspondent of the Her Campus Chapter at The New School.