A helpful guide to choosing the best backpacks for middle school students.

Middle school is a time of transition, with students navigating new academic challenges, social circles, and personal growth. A reliable backpack is essential for carrying all their school supplies, books, and personal items comfortably and safely. Choosing the right backpack can make a big difference in a student’s daily experience, ensuring they are organized, comfortable, and prepared for anything the day throws their way. From durable materials to ergonomic designs, there are numerous features to consider when selecting the perfect backpack for your middle school student.

This comprehensive guide highlights 20 of the best backpacks designed specifically for middle schoolers. We’ve curated a diverse selection that encompasses various styles, sizes, and features to suit individual preferences and needs. Whether your student prioritizes functionality, fashion, or a combination of both, this list will help you find the ideal backpack to elevate their middle school journey.

Each backpack has been carefully evaluated based on key factors, including durability, comfort, organization, and style. We’ve also factored in user reviews and expert opinions to ensure that our recommendations are both practical and appealing. You’ll discover backpacks with ample storage space, padded straps for maximum comfort, water bottle holders, and even built-in laptop sleeves.

With our expert insights, you can confidently navigate the world of backpacks and find the perfect option for your middle schooler. Whether they’re heading to class, after-school activities, or simply exploring their world, they’ll be equipped with the ideal backpack to carry their belongings and confidently embrace the challenges and adventures ahead.

QUICKLIST
Item	Image	Where to buy	Rating	Read More
Jansport Big Student Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
AmazonBasics Classic Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Nike Brasilia Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Adidas Originals National Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
North Face Borealis Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Herschel Supply Co. Retreat Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
High Sierra Swerve Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
JanSport SuperBreak Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Eastpak Padded Pak’r Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Under Armour Hustle 4.0 Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
The North Face Vault Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Puma Core Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Timberland Classic Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Levi’s Commuter Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Dickies Core Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Contigo Autospout Water Bottle Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Element Section Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
L.L.Bean Book Pack Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review
Vera Bradley Campus Backpack			N/A	Jump to Review

Table of Contents

Jansport Big Student Backpack

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A classic backpack with a spacious main compartment and plenty of pockets for organization.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 18.5" x 13" x 7.5"
Weight: 1.6 pounds
Capacity: 34 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Durable and long-lasting
Comfortable to wear
Plenty of storage space
Affordable price

Reasons to avoid :

Can be bulky and heavy
Not as stylish as some other options
May not be the best choice for smaller students

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a backpack with lots of storage space.
You're looking for a durable and affordable backpack.

Don't buy it if:

You need a backpack that's lightweight and easy to carry.
You're looking for a stylish backpack.

Bottom Line:

The Jansport Big Student Backpack is a solid choice for middle school students who need a durable and spacious backpack. It's not the most stylish option, and it can be a bit bulky, but it's a great value for the price. If you're looking for a backpack that will last, this is a good option. However, if you're looking for a lighter and more stylish backpack, there are better options out there.

AmazonBasics Classic Backpack

A simple and affordable backpack with a large main compartment and a front pocket.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 17.5" x 12.5" x 6"
Weight: 1.2 pounds
Capacity: 25 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable to wear

Reasons to avoid :

Not as many pockets as some other options
May not be as stylish as some other options
Not as durable as some other options

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You're looking for an affordable backpack.
You need a durable and water-resistant backpack.

Don't buy it if:

You need a backpack with lots of pockets.
You're looking for a stylish backpack.

Bottom Line:

The AmazonBasics Classic Backpack is a good budget-friendly option for middle school students who need a simple and durable backpack. It's not the most stylish or feature-rich backpack, but it gets the job done. If you're looking for a backpack that's affordable and durable, this is a good option. However, if you need a backpack with more pockets or a more stylish design, there are better options out there.

Nike Brasilia Backpack

A sporty backpack with a large main compartment and a shoe compartment.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 19" x 13" x 7.5"
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Capacity: 31 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable to wear
Stylish design
Separate shoe compartment

Reasons to avoid :

Can be a bit expensive
Not as much storage space as some other options
May not be the best choice for students who need a lot of organization

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You're looking for a stylish and durable backpack.
You need a backpack with a separate shoe compartment.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You need a backpack with lots of storage space.

Bottom Line:

The Nike Brasilia Backpack is a great option for middle school students who want a stylish and durable backpack. It has a separate shoe compartment, which is great for athletes, and it's made from water-resistant materials. However, it's not the most affordable backpack, and it doesn't have as much storage space as some other options. If you're looking for a stylish and durable backpack, this is a good option. However, if you're on a tight budget or need a backpack with lots of storage space, there are better options out there.

Adidas Originals National Backpack

A classic and stylish backpack with a large main compartment and a front pocket.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 17.5" x 12.5" x 6"
Weight: 1.3 pounds
Capacity: 25 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Stylish design
Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable to wear
Affordable price

Reasons to avoid :

Not as many pockets as some other options
May not be the best choice for students who need a lot of organization
Not as durable as some other options

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You're looking for a stylish and affordable backpack.
You need a durable and water-resistant backpack.

Don't buy it if:

You need a backpack with lots of pockets.
You're looking for a backpack that's very durable.

Bottom Line:

The Adidas Originals National Backpack is a great option for middle school students who want a stylish and affordable backpack. It's made from durable and water-resistant materials, and it's comfortable to wear. However, it doesn't have as many pockets as some other options, and it's not as durable as some of the other backpacks on this list. If you're looking for a stylish and affordable backpack, this is a good option. However, if you need a backpack with lots of pockets or a backpack that's very durable, there are better options out there.

North Face Borealis Backpack

A durable and feature-rich backpack with a large main compartment, a laptop sleeve, and a front pocket.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 19" x 13" x 9"
Weight: 1.7 pounds
Capacity: 31 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable to wear
Plenty of storage space
Laptop sleeve

Reasons to avoid :

Can be a bit expensive
May not be the best choice for smaller students
Not as stylish as some other options

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a durable and feature-rich backpack.
You need a backpack with a laptop sleeve.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You need a backpack that's lightweight and easy to carry.

Bottom Line:

The North Face Borealis Backpack is a great option for middle school students who need a durable and feature-rich backpack. It's made from durable and water-resistant materials, and it has a laptop sleeve. However, it's not the most affordable backpack, and it can be a bit bulky. If you need a durable backpack with a laptop sleeve, this is a good option. However, if you're on a tight budget or need a backpack that's lightweight and easy to carry, there are better options out there.

Herschel Supply Co. Retreat Backpack

A stylish and functional backpack with a large main compartment, a laptop sleeve, and a front pocket.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 17" x 12" x 6"
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Capacity: 25 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Stylish design
Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable to wear
Laptop sleeve

Reasons to avoid :

Can be a bit expensive
Not as much storage space as some other options
May not be the best choice for students who need a lot of organization

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You're looking for a stylish and functional backpack.
You need a backpack with a laptop sleeve.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You need a backpack with lots of storage space.

Bottom Line:

The Herschel Supply Co. Retreat Backpack is a great option for middle school students who want a stylish and functional backpack. It's made from durable and water-resistant materials, and it has a laptop sleeve. However, it's not the most affordable backpack, and it doesn't have as much storage space as some other options. If you're looking for a stylish and functional backpack, this is a good option. However, if you're on a tight budget or need a backpack with lots of storage space, there are better options out there.

SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Backpack

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A durable and feature-rich backpack with a large main compartment, a laptop sleeve, and a front pocket.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 19" x 13" x 9"
Weight: 1.9 pounds
Capacity: 31 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable to wear
Plenty of storage space
Laptop sleeve

Reasons to avoid :

Can be a bit expensive
May not be the best choice for smaller students
Not as stylish as some other options

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a durable and feature-rich backpack.
You need a backpack with a laptop sleeve.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You need a backpack that's lightweight and easy to carry.

Bottom Line:

The SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Backpack is a great option for middle school students who need a durable and feature-rich backpack. It's made from durable and water-resistant materials, and it has a laptop sleeve. It's also designed to be TSA-friendly, which is a great feature for students who travel often. However, it's not the most affordable backpack, and it can be a bit bulky. If you need a durable backpack with a laptop sleeve and TSA-friendly features, this is a good option. However, if you're on a tight budget or need a backpack that's lightweight and easy to carry, there are better options out there.

High Sierra Swerve Backpack

A durable and spacious backpack with a large main compartment, a laptop sleeve, and a front pocket.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 19" x 13" x 9"
Weight: 1.8 pounds
Capacity: 31 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable to wear
Plenty of storage space
Laptop sleeve

Reasons to avoid :

Can be a bit expensive
May not be the best choice for smaller students
Not as stylish as some other options

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a durable and spacious backpack.
You need a backpack with a laptop sleeve.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You need a backpack that's lightweight and easy to carry.

Bottom Line:

The High Sierra Swerve Backpack is a great option for middle school students who need a durable and spacious backpack. It's made from durable and water-resistant materials, and it has a laptop sleeve. It's also a very affordable backpack. However, it's not the most stylish option, and it can be a bit bulky. If you need a durable and spacious backpack at a great price, this is a good option. However, if you're looking for a stylish backpack or need a backpack that's lightweight and easy to carry, there are better options out there.

JanSport SuperBreak Backpack

A classic and affordable backpack with a large main compartment and a front pocket.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 16" x 12" x 5"
Weight: 1.1 pounds
Capacity: 21 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable to wear

Reasons to avoid :

Not as many pockets as some other options
May not be as stylish as some other options
Not as durable as some other options

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You're looking for an affordable backpack.
You need a durable and water-resistant backpack.

Don't buy it if:

You need a backpack with lots of pockets.
You're looking for a stylish backpack.

Bottom Line:

The JanSport SuperBreak Backpack is a good budget-friendly option for middle school students who need a simple and durable backpack. It's not the most stylish or feature-rich backpack, but it gets the job done. If you're looking for a backpack that's affordable and durable, this is a good option. However, if you need a backpack with more pockets or a more stylish design, there are better options out there.

Eastpak Padded Pak'r Backpack

A classic and stylish backpack with a large main compartment and a front pocket.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 17.5" x 13" x 6.5"
Weight: 1.2 pounds
Capacity: 24 liters
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Stylish design
Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable to wear
Affordable price

Reasons to avoid :

Not as many pockets as some other options
May not be the best choice for students who need a lot of organization
Not as durable as some other options

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You're looking for a stylish and affordable backpack.
You need a durable and water-resistant backpack.

Don't buy it if:

You need a backpack with lots of pockets.
You're looking for a backpack that's very durable.

Bottom Line:

The Eastpak Padded Pak'r Backpack is a great option for middle school students who want a stylish and affordable backpack. It's made from durable and water-resistant materials, and it's comfortable to wear. However, it doesn't have as many pockets as some other options, and it's not as durable as some of the other backpacks on this list. If you're looking for a stylish and affordable backpack, this is a good option. However, if you need a backpack with lots of pockets or a backpack that's very durable, there are better options out there.

Under Armour Hustle 4.0 Backpack

A durable and stylish backpack with a large main compartment and multiple pockets for organization.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 18.5" x 13" x 7"
Capacity: 25 liters
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Durable and water-resistant
Comfortable padded straps
Multiple compartments for organization
Stylish design

Reasons to avoid :

Can be a bit bulky
Not the most affordable option

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a backpack that can withstand the rigors of middle school.
You want a backpack with plenty of storage space.
You value a stylish and comfortable backpack.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You prefer a smaller, more minimalist backpack.

Bottom Line: The Under Armour Hustle 4.0 Backpack is a great choice for middle school students who need a durable, spacious, and stylish backpack. It has a comfortable fit and plenty of pockets for organization, making it perfect for carrying books, laptops, and other essentials. While it's not the cheapest option on the market, its durability and features make it a worthwhile investment for students who will be using their backpack daily.

The North Face Vault Backpack

A classic and reliable backpack with a spacious main compartment and a dedicated laptop sleeve.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 18.5" x 13" x 7"
Capacity: 25 liters
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Durable and weather-resistant
Comfortable padded straps
Dedicated laptop sleeve
Classic and stylish design

Reasons to avoid :

Can be a bit bulky
Not the most affordable option

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a backpack that can withstand the rigors of middle school.
You want a backpack with plenty of storage space.
You value a classic and stylish design.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You prefer a smaller, more minimalist backpack.

Bottom Line: The North Face Vault Backpack is a great option for middle school students who need a durable, spacious, and reliable backpack. It has a comfortable fit, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and a classic and stylish design that will stand the test of time. While it's not the cheapest option on the market, its durability and features make it a worthwhile investment for students who will be using their backpack daily.

Puma Core Backpack

A stylish and affordable backpack with a spacious main compartment and a dedicated laptop sleeve.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 17" x 12" x 6"
Capacity: 20 liters
Weight: 1.2 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Stylish and affordable
Comfortable padded straps
Dedicated laptop sleeve
Multiple compartments for organization

Reasons to avoid :

Not as durable as some other options
Limited water resistance

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You want a stylish and affordable backpack.
You need a backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve.

Don't buy it if:

You need a backpack that's extremely durable.
You live in an area with frequent rain.

Bottom Line: The Puma Core Backpack is a great value for money for middle school students who need a stylish and affordable backpack. It has a comfortable fit, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and multiple compartments for organization. While it's not as durable as some other options on the market, its price and features make it a solid choice for budget-conscious students.

Timberland Classic Backpack

A rugged and durable backpack with a large main compartment and multiple pockets for organization.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 17" x 13" x 6"
Capacity: 22 liters
Weight: 1.5 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Rugged and durable
Comfortable padded straps
Multiple compartments for organization
Water-resistant

Reasons to avoid :

Can be a bit bulky
Not the most stylish option

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a backpack that can withstand the rigors of middle school.
You want a backpack with plenty of storage space.
You value a rugged and durable backpack.

Don't buy it if:

You prefer a more stylish backpack.
You're on a tight budget.

Bottom Line: The Timberland Classic Backpack is a great choice for middle school students who need a durable and spacious backpack. It has a comfortable fit, multiple compartments for organization, and a rugged design that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. While it's not the most stylish option on the market, its durability and features make it a solid choice for students who need a reliable backpack.

Levi's Commuter Backpack

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A stylish and functional backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 17" x 12" x 5"
Capacity: 18 liters
Weight: 1.3 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Stylish and functional
Comfortable padded straps
Dedicated laptop sleeve
Water bottle holder

Reasons to avoid :

Not as spacious as some other options
Limited water resistance

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You want a stylish and functional backpack.
You need a backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve.
You appreciate a water bottle holder.

Don't buy it if:

You need a backpack with plenty of storage space.
You live in an area with frequent rain.

Bottom Line: The Levi's Commuter Backpack is a great option for middle school students who want a stylish and functional backpack. It has a comfortable fit, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and a water bottle holder, making it perfect for carrying everyday essentials. While it's not as spacious as some other options on the market, its stylish design and features make it a solid choice for students who prioritize style and function.

Dickies Core Backpack

A durable and affordable backpack with a large main compartment and multiple pockets for organization.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 18" x 12" x 6"
Capacity: 20 liters
Weight: 1.3 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Durable and affordable
Comfortable padded straps
Multiple compartments for organization
Water-resistant

Reasons to avoid :

Not the most stylish option
Limited water resistance

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You need a durable and spacious backpack.
You value a backpack with multiple pockets for organization.

Don't buy it if:

You prefer a more stylish backpack.
You live in an area with frequent rain.

Bottom Line: The Dickies Core Backpack is a great value for money for middle school students who need a durable and spacious backpack. It has a comfortable fit, multiple compartments for organization, and a rugged design that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. While it's not the most stylish option on the market, its durability and features make it a solid choice for budget-conscious students.

Contigo Autospout Water Bottle Backpack

A backpack with a built-in Contigo Autospout water bottle, perfect for staying hydrated throughout the day.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 18" x 12" x 6"
Capacity: 20 liters
Weight: 1.5 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Built-in Contigo Autospout water bottle
Durable and spacious
Comfortable padded straps
Multiple compartments for organization

Reasons to avoid :

Not as stylish as some other options
Can be a bit bulky

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You want a backpack with a built-in water bottle.
You need a backpack with plenty of storage space.
You value a backpack with a comfortable fit.

Don't buy it if:

You prefer a more stylish backpack.
You're on a tight budget.

Bottom Line: The Contigo Autospout Water Bottle Backpack is a great option for middle school students who want a backpack with a built-in water bottle. It has a comfortable fit, plenty of storage space, and a durable design that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. While it's not the most stylish option on the market, its convenience and features make it a solid choice for students who prioritize hydration and functionality.

Element Section Backpack

A stylish and functional backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 17" x 12" x 5"
Capacity: 18 liters
Weight: 1.2 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Stylish and functional
Comfortable padded straps
Dedicated laptop sleeve
Water bottle holder
Durable and water-resistant

Reasons to avoid :

Not as spacious as some other options
Can be a bit pricey

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You want a stylish and functional backpack.
You need a backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve.
You appreciate a water bottle holder.

Don't buy it if:

You need a backpack with plenty of storage space.
You're on a tight budget.

Bottom Line: The Element Section Backpack is a great option for middle school students who want a stylish and functional backpack. It has a comfortable fit, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and a water bottle holder, making it perfect for carrying everyday essentials. While it's not as spacious as some other options on the market, its stylish design, durability, and features make it a solid choice for students who prioritize style, function, and water resistance.

L.L.Bean Book Pack Backpack

A classic and durable backpack with a spacious main compartment and a dedicated laptop sleeve.

Specifications :

Dimensions: 18" x 13" x 7"
Capacity: 25 liters
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Durable and weather-resistant
Comfortable padded straps
Dedicated laptop sleeve
Classic and stylish design
Water-resistant

Reasons to avoid :

Can be a bit bulky
Not the most affordable option

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a backpack that can withstand the rigors of middle school.
You want a backpack with plenty of storage space.
You value a classic and stylish design.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You prefer a smaller, more minimalist backpack.

Bottom Line: The L.L.Bean Book Pack Backpack is a great option for middle school students who need a durable, spacious, and reliable backpack. It has a comfortable fit, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and a classic and stylish design that will stand the test of time. While it's not the cheapest option on the market, its durability, weather resistance, and features make it a worthwhile investment for students who will be using their backpack daily.

Vera Bradley Campus Backpack

A stylish and functional backpack with a variety of patterns and colors to choose from.

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Specifications :

Dimensions: 16" x 12" x 5"
Capacity: 15 liters
Weight: 1.1 pounds
Materials: Polyester

Reasons to buy :

Stylish and functional
Comfortable padded straps
Multiple compartments for organization
Variety of patterns and colors to choose from

Reasons to avoid :

Not as durable as some other options
Can be a bit expensive

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You want a stylish and functional backpack.
You appreciate a variety of patterns and colors to choose from.
You need a backpack with multiple compartments for organization.

Don't buy it if:

You need a backpack that's extremely durable.
You're on a tight budget.

Bottom Line: The Vera Bradley Campus Backpack is a great option for middle school students who want a stylish and functional backpack. It has a comfortable fit, multiple compartments for organization, and a variety of patterns and colors to choose from, making it perfect for expressing personal style. While it's not as durable as some other options on the market, its stylish design and features make it a solid choice for students who prioritize style and function.

Choosing the right backpack for your middle schooler can be a daunting task, but with a little research and consideration, you can find the perfect one that fits their needs and style. From spacious compartments to comfortable straps, there's a backpack out there for every student, whether they're a bookworm or an athlete. Remember to prioritize features like durability, organization, and weight distribution to ensure a smooth and comfortable school year.

Ultimately, the best backpack for your middle schooler will depend on their individual needs and preferences. Encourage them to be involved in the selection process, as they'll be the ones carrying it around all day. Consider their daily routine, the types of books and materials they'll be carrying, and their personal style.

With so many amazing options available, you're sure to find the perfect backpack that will help your middle schooler navigate their academic journey with ease and confidence. Remember, the right backpack can be a valuable investment that will last them throughout their middle school years.

Investing in a quality backpack is a smart choice, not just for its functionality but also for its potential to boost your child's confidence and comfort at school. With the right backpack, your middle schooler can focus on learning and enjoying their school years without being weighed down by a bulky or uncomfortable bag.