Looking for The Best Backpacks for Grad School?

Best Backpacks for Grad School

College is different from high school. You’d have time to go to parties and have fun, but you’d also have to study, keep fit, and engage in other activities. So, you need a backpack to carry your essentials and anything you don’t want to hold in your hands as you travel from your dorm to class and everywhere else. But you can’t settle for just any bag; you want one of the best backpacks for grad school!

If you can’t make up your mind on which college backpack to get or need to gift one to a college student you know, then this might be the right place to start!

We’ll review the ten best backpacks for college. But first, here are our top picks and everything you need to know about buying the best backpacks for grad school or everyday life.

Our Top Picks – Best Backpacks for Grad School

1. Vaschy Unisex School Backpack: This backpack is our best for fashion. Its orange color looks great, and you can stash a 15-inch laptop in it. Still, there’s enough space for books, and its fully-padded back makes it easy to carry throughout the day.
2. Tinvic Extra Large College Backpack: Sturdy, safe, and versatile. These are the perfect words to describe this Tinvic backpack. It’s our best for storage capacity, and its breathable and padded straps make it comfortable to use.
3. Suvom Vintage Leather Backpack: Here’s our best for versatility. If you need to go hiking or to the gym after class, then this might be the backpack for you. With large pockets all around this backpack, there’s almost nothing you can’t keep in it.

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Things to Consider When Getting a Backpack for College

You shouldn’t just get any backpack. That’s because it may not be comfortable to use or fit your essentials. So, here are a couple of factors to keep in mind when getting the best backpacks for grad school:

1. The backpack’s storage capacity

This is a no-brainer. You’d like a backpack that has just enough room for your things. With too much space, you’d notice that you might start packing junk in it. But if it’s small-spaced, then you’ll have to over-pack or hold some things in your hand. Either way, you’d not feel comfortable, and there’ll be more to do than just putting it on your shoulder. You could also experience back pains. So, don’t forget to find out the storage capacity of the backpack you want to get.

2. The backpack’s external compartment(s)

Your backpack shouldn’t have one large internal compartment that’s enclosed by zippers. That’s because it would be challenging to access tiny essentials like your wallet or keys. So, consider one that has external compartments like a water-bottle holder and flat paperwork pouch. Having external compartments in your backpack would save you from digging through your stuff. Multiple compartments are also ideal for maximizing space.

3. The backpack’s look and colour

The first things people notice about backpacks are color and shape. So, your backpack should reflect your fashion style. And since bags come in different colors, you can get one that will match most of your clothes. But don’t be afraid to try out the patterned ones with daring colors. As long as it is something you like, you should go for it.

4. The backpack’s durability

Anyone would take a backpack they can use for many years. So, you should consider the strength of the backpack you intend to get.

An easy tip to know if the backpack will last for a long time is to peruse its build. Is it water-resistant and made from heavy cloth or rubber? How about the stitches? Are they tight? From there, you’ll know if you’ll be needing a new backpack every year or if it would last you through grad school.

5. The backpack’s straps and padding

Your backpack should be comfortable to carry for long. So, you should consider its strap size and padding. You’d want one that has broad straps. But if you have a lot to carry, then a sternum strap would be helpful. In either case, you should be able to adjust the straps whenever you want. Having paddings on your backpack might make it a lot lighter to carry. And one with a handle would be easy to grab.

6. The backpack’s special features

If it’s important to you, then consider the special features on the backpack you intend to get. While some have power-banks, others have compartments for your headphone cords to pass through. They’ll likely cost a few bucks more than the regular, old-fashioned backpacks. But having one might be better than having to charge your phone inside your backpack.

7. The backpack’s price and warranty

It makes no sense to get an expensive backpack that doesn’t meet any of your needs. So, make sure you weigh its price against its features before committing. It’s also a good idea to also check the backpack’s warranty.

The 10 Best Backpacks for Grad School

Here are the best backpacks for grad school:

1. Abshoo Classic Travel Backpack for School

Top of the list is this navy backpack, which is undoubtedly one of the best backpacks for college. It’s a large multi-pocket backpack with two broad straps to carry your essentials.

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: Abshoo Backpack dimensions: 16.5 x 12.4 x 2 inches Backpack weight: 1.19 poundsNumber of straps: 2, adjustableHandle: Yes, 1Number of main compartments: 2

Pros:

• It is water-resistant.
• The main compartment has two anti-theft zippers.
• It comes in different colors.
• It has many pockets.

Cons:

• The zips can be a bit rough to open and close.

Our Thoughts

If you are looking for a comfortable backpack for college, then consider this bag. It’s sturdy and looks really great. Our favorite feature is the anti-sweat and breathable straps that help to relax your shoulders. But we also like its large water-bottle compartment.

The zippers can be a bit difficult to use. But the large compartments have two. So, if one fails, you can use the other. This is one of the best backpacks for grad school that would fit your laptop, books, and almost anything you have to carry if you asked us.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

2. Leaper Cute School Backpack for Girls

Women are ditching their purses for backpacks. So, here’s one of the best backpacks for college girls. It’s a vintage backpack with a floral design and padded straps for comfort.

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: Leaper Backpack dimensions: 11 x 15.9 x 4.9-inch backpack weight: 0.99 poundsNumber of straps: 2, adjustable handle: Yes, 1Number of main compartments: 2

Pros:

• It has an eye-catching print.
• It has two water-bottle pockets on both sides.
• This backpack is sturdy and lightweight.

Cons:

• It is not water-resistant

Our Thoughts

Overall, we think this is one of the best backpacks for college girls. It’s really comfortable to use, and its top loop makes it easy to grab. We love the custom-made pocket for a 14-inch laptop or iPad, which makes it stand out from other bags. We would have liked it better if it was water-resistant. However, we think its great value for money if you are looking for a versatile and stylish backpack for college.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

3. Vaschy Unisex School Backpack

Another backpack you should consider getting is this classic water-resistant Vaschy unit. It is made from durable polyester and might be useful in organizing your stuff.

Product SpecificationsManufacturer: Vaschy Backpack dimensions: 17.1 x 13 x 1.9 inches Backpack weight: 1.06 poundsNumber of straps: 2, adjustable Handle: Yes, 1Number of main compartments: 1

Pros:

• It is water-resistant.
• It is lightweight.
• The SBS zippers are smooth to use and comfortable to hold.
• It has a laptop pocket.

Cons:

• It has a weird smell that is tough to remove.

Our Thoughts

There’s not a lot to hate about this Vashy backpack. It is durable and can fit so many things in its pockets. Our favorite feature is the fully-padded back-panels that makes it comfortable to carry on your back. Since the bag is washable, we figured that one good wash should get the weird smell out.

Not! This Vaschy backpack is roomy and would easily fit a 15-inch laptop. If you are looking for the best backpacks for college students with laptops, consider this one.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

4. Bebamour Unisex Casual Backpack

This college backpack has a unique design and can double as a traveling bag. It has lots of pockets and stands even if there is nothing inside.

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: Bebamour Backpack dimensions: 11 x 16.6 x 6.3 inches Backpack weight: 1.54 pounds Number of straps: 2, adjustable Handle: Yes, 2Number of main compartments: 1

Pros:

• It’s a large capacity backpack.
• It has padded shoulder straps that make it easy to carry for a long time.
• You can use it as a tote bag.

Cons:

• The straps may start ripping after some time.

Our Thoughts

There’s no doubt that this Bebamour is one of the best backpacks for school. It has four pockets inside the main compartment and a front zipper pouch for items you use often.

In terms of functionality, comfort, and ease of use, few backpacks can compete with this bag. But we figured that it isn’t the lightest bag you’ll find. In a nutshell, this unisex bag is the fashionable option you should try out if you are looking for the best backpacks for grad school.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

5. Suvom Vintage Leather Backpack

Here’s a backpack that might last throughout your college years. Its multi-pocket rucksack allows you to pack so many things at once, and the Velcro buttons would keep them safe.

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: Suvom Backpack dimensions: 12.9 x 5.1 x 17-inch backpack weight: 3.53 pounds Number of straps: 2, adjustable handle: Yes, 1Number of main compartments: 1

Pros:

• It’s has a large main compartment and can fit laptops.
• It is a durable backpack.
• It is water-resistant.

Cons:

• It’s not lightweight.

Our Thoughts

This backpack is rock-solid. It has thick and dense wax canvas, so you shouldn’t expect it to deform easily. You can use it for hiking, but it is also great for college students.

It’s a bit heavy. But you wouldn’t feel the effect because it has thickened-soft straps that’ll protect your shoulder. A lot of users gave this backpack a 5-star rating, and we cannot disagree with this. It is one of the best backpacks for grad school.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

6. Himawari Unisex Spacious School Backpack

This Himawari backpack is a functional and stylish unit for college. It has a large storage capacity and can fully open to take almost all your essentials. The backpack is waterproof and made from nylon fabric.

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: Himawari Backpack dimensions: 11 x 16 x 6.3-inch backpack weight: 1.4 pounds Number of straps: 2, adjustable handle: Yes, 1Number of main compartments: 1

Pros:

• It has bright colours, and it is a fashionable backpack.
• It is lightweight.
• This backpack is waterproof.

Cons

• The straps can tear after a while.

Our Thoughts

Himawari is a new backpack manufacturer, so most people hope to get the best bags from them. This unit is rated as one of the best backpacks for grad school, and we like it for many reasons.

Both breathable straps and the back of this backpack are padded. So, it’s very comfortable to carry. Our best feature is the back zipper that gives you quick access to the inner compartments.

The straps would only tear if you do not adjust them, so always keep that in mind. But overall, this Himawari backpack is comfortable to use and made from high-quality materials that should last for long.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

7. Tinvic Extra Large College Backpack

If you need to carry stuff around, then you might want to check this backpack out. It’s a black bag with two large compartments.

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: Tinvic Backpack dimensions: 19 x 14.6 x 10.2-inch backpack weight: 2.75 pounds Number of straps: 2, adjustable handle: Yes, 1Number of main compartments: 2

Pros:

• It has more than 20 pockets that can fit almost anything you’d want to put in them.
• It has headphone holes. So, you can listen to music hands-free
• It is durable and sturdily designed.
• It is water-resistant.

Cons:

• It is not lightweight.

Our Thoughts

In terms of storage capacity and durability, you will not find many backpacks better than this. It’s made from polyester fabric and would not tear if you use it correctly.

With its breathable and padded back panels, we can say that this backpack is designed for comfort. But our favorite feature is the in-built charging port. With it, all you have to do is connect your USB cable to the port, and your phone would start charging. This anti-theft backpack can fit laptops of different sizes. We’d recommend it if you’re looking for a large capacity backpack for college.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

8. MATEIN Laptop Backpack

Next, we have the Matein black backpack. It has one spacious main compartment and many side pockets. It’s easy to carry around and might be the perfect gift for any college student.

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: Matein Backpack dimensions: 19 x 14 x 6 inches Backpack weight: 0.65 poundsNumber of straps: 2, adjustable Handle: Yes, 1Number of main compartments: 1

Pros:

• It is fashionable.
• It has an in-built charger port. So, you don’t need to charge your phone in your backpack.
• It has a large main compartment.

Cons:

• It can’t stand without things inside.

Our Thoughts

The colour on this backpack hits differently. It’s really dark!

We like the anti-theft pocket at the back. But our favourite thing about this backpack is that it is easy to clean. We guess the fact that it doesn’t stand on its own shouldn’t bother you. It is supposed to contain your things, after all! The Matein backpack has a padded design and is one of the best backpacks for students with laptops. Are you looking for an alternative? Here you can find another nice vintage women’s backpack.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

9. Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: Timbuk2 Backpack dimensions: 11.80 x 10.63 x 0.00 inches Backpack weight: 2.43 pounds Number of straps: 2 adjustable Handle: Yes Number of main compartments:1

Pros:

• High volume backpack with internal organizer
• Interior pocket can fit most laptops between 15 and 17-inches
• Rear access to laptop pocket
• Bottom compression straps for cinching
• Grab handle for easy lifting
• Water-resistant bottom
• Airmesh ventilated back panel
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• Quite pricey. Would be a significant investment
• Some feel that the laptop sleeve has too much padding
• Needs a side handle
• Can’t add a lock to the zipper

Our Thoughts

Overall, this backpack would make a great investment if you are a grad student looking for a higher quality bag with more professional appeal. It is spacious enough to hold everything you need while also protecting your laptop and other electronics. You can keep everything well organized with the interior pockets. There is even reflective tape under the compression straps to improve your visibility if you walk the campus at night.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

10. MATEIN Unisex Multipurpose Backpack

Last on our list is another backpack from Matein. It’s an easy-to-organize backpack that’s really comfortable to use. Like many other bags on this list, it is waterproof.

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: Matein Backpack dimensions: 14 x 9 x 3.5 inches backpack weight: 1.4 pounds Number of straps: 2, adjustable handle: Yes, 1Number of main compartments: 1

Pros:

• It has a comfortable handle and anti-theft zippers.
• It has a reflective stripe for easy identification in the night.
• The backpack has a large storage capacity.

Cons:

• Relatively, it is not lightweight.

Our Thoughts

If you need a durable and comfortable backpack for college, then consider getting this bag. We found that almost every customer gave it a positive review. And after checking it out, we have to agree with them. It has a lot of pockets. But since we like to wear sunglasses, we found the strap pocket where you can keep one useful. The Matein waterproof bag may be worth your bucks if you need a new bag for college.

Check Price and Reviews on Amazon

Wrap Up

If you are going to college soon, you’d need one of the best backpacks you can find. Since it’s an investment that should last for many years, we’d recommend that you prioritize getting one from a reliable brand. But then, your bag shouldn’t have a boring look and be obsolete either.

You probably know that there are many backpack options to choose from. So, we are confident you’d find one you’d love from our list of the top backpacks for college students. But you are not alone. We’ve helped you out with some buying tips that you should keep in mind. So, what are you waiting for? Do you want to carry your gym wear, laptop, and textbooks all day? Let our top three picks guide you, or choose from our list of the best backpacks for grad school now!

If you thought this article was helpful or interesting, then you should also check THIS article.

FAQs

Q1. What’s the difference between a regular backpack and one for college students?

Generally, regular backpacks have one or two main compartments where you can stuff things. Unlike backpacks for college, you’d not find special features or several external compartments. They are just backpacks!

Q2. What should I not put in my backpack?

With much talk on their large capacities, we bet you think that you can fit weird things like knives in them. So, here are a couple of things that shouldn’t be in your college backpack:

• • Open food: We know you’d want to snack on them later. But you are in college now. Keeping open food like a bag of chips in your backpack is a terrible idea. Get prepared to wash it if you put them in your backpack. And if it isn’t washable, then you might have to live with your mistake.
  • Wired Headphones: If your backpack doesn’t have a headphone hole, you shouldn’t put them in your bag. They have a way of getting tangled. So, you’d be better off holding your headphones or wrapping them around your neck.
  • Fruits: It doesn’t seem like a big deal, but they could get rotten and make your backpack smell terrible. Just hope that they don’t ruin your textbooks too.

Q3. Can I machine-wash my backpack?

You can machine-wash most backpacks. However, most people prefer to handwash them. So, check the label before you throw it in the washing machine.

In either case, we’d recommend that you avoid using harsh cleaning agents.

Q4: What should you keep in your backpack for grad school?

When organizing your backpack for grad school, you want to make sure you have enough room for all of your school essentials, including your laptop, pens and pencils, highlights, scientific calculator, laptop charger, cell phone, and cell phone charger, textbooks, headphones or earbuds, notebooks, and binders.

Q5: What is the best backpack for everyday use?

If you are looking for the best backpack for everyday use, you want to find something durable since it will get daily use. Jansport, Kelty, and Osprey all have backpacks that are suitable for everyday use.

Q6: How long should your backpack last?

When you buy a backpack for school use, you want it to last for at least four years of wear and tear and continued use. It should also be able to handle those weekend trips to your parents house or a getaway as well.

Q7: Is a Herschel backpack good for grad school?

If you are looking for a much more durable backpack for grad school, you should definitely consider a Herschel backpack like the Herschel Little America or Herschel Pop Quiz backpack. If you choose a Herschel backpack, keep in mind that you should only hand wash it, or have it dry cleaned.