Back to school backpacks for every age group
Plus, what to look for when shopping for a new backpack this school year
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Love it or loathe it, back to school season is quickly approaching. That means it’s time to take stock of last year’s supplies and start making a shopping list for the new year ahead. Pens, pencils, highlighters and notebooks are all essential, but you won’t get far without a backpack to safely carry everything to and from school.
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Kids should be carrying no more than 10 to 15 per cent of their body weight in their backpacks. It’s essential to find a bag that’s the right size for their age group, which can help ensure that they aren’t weighed down with an overstuffed backpack, causing pain, posture issues and potential strains.
When shopping for a new backpack, make sure to look for a bag with:
- Wide straps and a padded back for cushioning
- Additional chest or waist straps to evenly distribute weight
- Multiple pockets for organization
- The right size for your child (the pack should sit two inches above their hips when worn)
Ahead, find backpack inspiration for students of all ages this back to school season, from preschool to university.
For preschool and kindergarten
Bluey 2pc Backpack & Lunch Bag
Why buy: For kids just getting used to a school routine, having a backpack with a beloved character can make the transition more exciting. This version features Bluey and her sister Bingo, but Walmart also has versions with characters from Lilo & Stitch, Paw Patrol, Ninja Turtles and more.
Features: Two-piece set comes with a backpack and matching lunch box, padded shoulder straps.
Price: $20
Where to buy:Walmart
Herschel Heritage Kids Backpack
Why buy: A Canadian classic, Herschel offers durable backpacks for students of all ages. We love the Heritage Kids Backpack for its timeless style and fun patterns that kids will love. This version is designed for ages three to seven, but it also comes in a youth size for kids aged eight to 12.
Features: Padded shoulder straps, removable sternum support strap, external name label, limited lifetime warranty.
Price: $55
Where to buy:Herschel | Sporting Life
Bentgo Kids Backpack
Why buy: This fun, patterned backpack is designed for ages four and up. It’s made with kid-friendly zippers, water-resistant fabric and a roomy interior that even has a padded laptop sleeve. Pair this backpack with the matching lunch bag and leakproof bento box for a complete set that fits together seamlessly.
Features: Padded shoulder straps and back, internal laptop pocket, buckled chest strap.
Price: $40
Where to buy:Amazon
Wonder Co. Recycled Backpack
Why buy: Little ones can choose from four patterns in this eco-friendly backpack made from recycled materials: strawberries, butterflies, dinosaurs or race cars. The brand also offers a full suite of matching accessories, including a lunch bag, bento box and water bottle.
Features: Padded straps, matching keychain included.
Price: $45
Where to buy:Indigo
For elementary and middle school
MEC Eyas Daypack
Why buy: This colourful backpack has plenty of room for school essentials with two large zippered compartments and mesh exterior pockets for water bottles or other small items. It’s finished with reflective daisy chain webbing for nighttime safety.
Features: Padded shoulder straps, moulded foam back panel, internal organizer pockets and sleeves, buckled chest strap.
Price: $40
Where to buy:MEC
Roots Junior Backpack
Why buy: Bigger kids require more space for books, gym clothes and lunches. This spacious Roots backpack has a 34L capacity to store all the essentials while weighing less than one pound.
Features: Made from recycled fibres, padded straps and back, laptop sleeve fits devices up to 15.6”.
Price: $40
Where to buy:Roots
Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack
Why buy: For the best variety in sizes, prints and materials, look to Pottery Barn’s line of Mackenzie Backpacks. They come in four sizes (plus adaptive options) and can be personalized with your child’s name, plus they’re available in dozens of patterns for all personalities.
Features: Customizable, water-resistant fabric, padded straps and back, buckled chest strap.
Price: $59+
Where to buy:Pottery Barn
Dakine Campus Backpack
Why buy: This versatile backpack features a large main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of room for books and binders. A handy insulated pocket keeps lunch and snacks cool, while a mix of organizer pockets keep school essentials within easy reach.
Features: Adjustable sternum strap, padded laptop sleeve, insulated cooler pocket, padded back and shoulder straps.
Price: $75
Where to buy: Altitude Sports
For high school and university
The North Face Borealis Backpack
Why buy: For long days filled with classes, extracurricular activities and hobbies, a spacious backpack is a must. The Borealis Backpack has bungee straps, comfortable FlexVent suspension system and protective compartments for your most important items. It’s also available in a women’s size for smaller frames.
Features: Padded shoulders and back, chest strap with whistle, internal laptop sleeve, removable waist belt.
Price: $130
Where to buy:The North Face
JanSport Right Pack Backpack
Why buy: With its signature suede leather bottom, the JanSport Right Pack is a classic for a reason. It has a unique two-toned design and space for laptops up to 15”. The front pocket is also filled with organizer slots to help keep your essentials within reach.
Features: Internal laptop sleeve, padded shoulder straps, leather bottom.
Price: $90
Where to buy:Altitude Sports
lululemon Double-Zip Backpack
Why buy: For a smaller backpack that doubles as a travel bag, consider the Double-Zip Backpack from lululemon. It features strategically placed pockets for quick access to your laptop and water bottle, with double top handles that make opening the main compartment a breeze. It also has a luggage strap to easily attach to your suitcase.
Features: Water repellent fabric, padded shoulder straps and back, adjustable sternum strap, luggage compatible sleeve.
Price: $98
Where to buy:lululemon
Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L
Why buy: Patagonia is known for its eco-friendly practices, and this backpack is no exception. It’s made entirely from recycled polyester in a Fair Trade Certified factory in Vietnam and features a durable water repellent (DWR) finish made without PFAS. Shop it in 26 or 30L volumes to suit your needs.
Features: Made from 100 per cent recycled polyester, padded straps, removable padded laptop sleeve, made in a Fair Trade Certified factory.
Price: $159
Where to buy:Patagonia
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