Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This doesn't affect our recommendations or editorial integrity. Learn more

Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Backpacks (School)

Backs aren't meant to carry textbooks. We compared school backpacks for weight distribution, durability through a school year, and whether kids will actually wear them.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

JanSport

SuperBreak Plus

4.7 (45,678 reviews)

Classic that endures.

Capacity

25L

Warranty

Lifetime

Pros

✓ Lifetime warranty
✓ Padded straps back
✓ Fits standard lockers

Cons

✗ Basic organization
✗ No laptop sleeve
✗ Water bottle pockets tight

$45

View on Amazon

Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
SuperBreak Plus Best JanSport	4.7	$45	View
ClassMate Medium Value Lands' End	4.6	$55	View
Zoo Little Kid Backpack Skip Hop	4.7	$25	View
Loop Plus Backpack High Sierra	4.5	$35	View
Original Book Pack L.L.Bean	4.8	$50	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

JanSport

SuperBreak Plus

4.7 (45,678 reviews)

Classic that endures.

Capacity

25L

Warranty

Lifetime

Pros

✓ Lifetime warranty
✓ Padded straps back
✓ Fits standard lockers

Cons

✗ Basic organization
✗ No laptop sleeve
✗ Water bottle pockets tight

$45

View on Amazon

Best Value

Lands' End

ClassMate Medium

4.6 (23,456 reviews)

Teacher recommendation.

Capacity

22L

Sizes

Small, Medium, Large

Warranty

Lifetime

Pros

✓ Extremely tough
✓ Personalization
✓ Great organization

Cons

✗ Premium price
✗ Heavier
✗ Conservative styling

$55

View on Amazon

Budget Pick

Skip Hop

Zoo Little Kid Backpack

4.7 (34,567 reviews)

Preschool favorite.

Capacity

10L

Feature

Insulated pocket

Ages

3-6

Pros

✓ Adorable animals
✓ Perfect preschool size
✓ Insulated pocket

Cons

✗ Small capacity
✗ For young only
✗ Less durable

$25

View on Amazon

High Sierra

Loop Plus Backpack

4.5 (15,678 reviews)

Middle schooler upgrade.

Capacity

26L

Laptop

15" sleeve

Ages

10+

Pros

✓ Tech compartment
✓ Good value
✓ Padded laptop sleeve

Cons

✗ Side pockets shallow
✗ Zippers can stick
✗ Targets older students

$35

View on Amazon

Premium Pick

L.L.Bean

Original Book Pack

4.8 (18,765 reviews)

Buy-it-for-life choice.

Capacity

25L

Warranty

Lifetime

Sizes

Junior, Regular

Pros

✓ Legendary durability
✓ Lifetime guarantee
✓ Monogramming

Cons

✗ Traditional styling
✗ No laptop sleeve
✗ Conservative colors

$50

View on Amazon

Buying Guide: How to Choose Backpacks (School)

School Backpacks Guide

Loaded backpack should not exceed 10-15% body weight.

Frequently Asked Questions About Backpacks (School)

How heavy is too heavy?

AAP recommends no more than 10-20% body weight. 60-lb kid should not carry more than 6-12 lbs.

Why Trust Our Recommendations?

We analyze thousands of real customer reviews, compare product specifications, and curate recommendations so you can make an informed decision without the research hassle.

Curated Recommendations

Real Customer Reviews

Specs Compared

No Paid Placements

Learn more about our methodology →