The 14 Best Backpacks for College Students (or Anyone, Really)

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We really ask a lot of backpacks, and I, both a PhD student and an adjunct professor, have perhaps asked the most from backpacks. And for an extended period of time, at them. I need room for my laptop, a few books, a notebook, my emotional support water bottle, anywhere between two and 20 pens, my chargers, a sweater, headphones, and emergency snacks. So, if ever you could earn the right to be an expert in backpacks, I think I could make a good case for myself as one.

Also, I'm an adult. I might spend the majority of my days on a college campus, but lord help me if someone thinks I'm an undergraduate. These backpacks really work for both. They house all the goods you need but they don't make you look like you wrapped up orientation. The key here is to go subtle. Simple shapes, neutral colors. Nothing too technical looking, like something you'd bring on a hike, or too rigid, like you shopped for backpacks in the shops at the airport. You know the ones.

Full-time, part-time, adjunct, or professor, these 14 backpacks exude scholarly support and look good in the process. Not even remotely in or around college? These work for that life, too.

Jake Backpack

Simple and effective is the name of the game here. Carhartt's easy navy backpack is a basic, durable option.

The ReNew Transit Backpack

Everlane knows how to toe the line between young and adult without minimizing either one. This backpack has a ton of room inside as well as in its front pockets.

Day Pack 2 X-Pac

Aer's day pack is low-key and highly technical. There are multiple pockets and spaces for putting things in without them getting messy in the black hole of the sizable main compartment.

Luka Laptop Backpack

Calpak's backpack absolutely levels up what it means to be backpack. It has two main compartments with roomy insides and plenty of organization,

Book Backpack

Rains makes this minimalist backpack that's perfect for people carrying just a few things to and from. It is completely waterproof, making it a grade-saving device if not a life-saving one.

The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Away's backpack was built for travel, which is exactly why it's so proficient in campus-related activities. It's made with a tough water-resistant nylon, and it's extra-long zipper makes actually getting your stuff inside a breeze.

Gray Happy Face Backpack

For part-time students heading to class from the office, having a bag that works in both situations is essential. This Paul Smith one is simple but elevated.

Never Check Expandable Backpack

Timbuk2's backpack is for those who emphasize efficiency over everything. The inside pocket houses 13" laptops and the outside expands if you happen to acquire more stuff throughout the day.

Trek Backpack

For a backpack that's a real move, this outdoor-inspired A.P.C. one is it. It's an easy-to-wear navy with a hell of a lot of room inside and style on the outside.

Blue Flight Backpack

This is the kind of backpack you want if you like bringing your whole life with you for the day. It also has that top handle for easy and efficient commuting.

Metro Backpack

Sometimes you need your backpack to show up and show out, and Monos's metro bag does just that. The shape has clean lines and the inside has room for a 15-inch laptop. That front pocket can be taken on and off the bag as needed, too.

Kaslo Backpack Tech

Herschel knows its backpacks and you really can't go wrong with any choice. We like this new shape from the brand, though, which feels a little fresher than that old-school shape but without veering too far into trendy.

Daypack Classic

Topo's bags are functional and fun with its creatively placed details and asymmetric zipper. The laptop sleeve is on the back, rather than inside the main compartment, to make taking it out easy.

Out of Office Backpack

You can't beat a classic like a black Eastpak. It has a 13-inch laptop sleeve and a whole bunch of nostalgia.

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