13 sturdy, laptop-friendly backpacks perfect for college students going back to school

They’re not in high school anymore.

The leap to college comes with some big changes — and yes, that includes a backpack upgrade.

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Whether your scholar is looking for a waterproof bag to protect that brand new laptop or a fun statement piece to begin the next chapter of their academic journey, there are plenty of options that are perfect for college kids.

The essential back-to-school supplies list: 15 must-have items for the 2021-22 school year

Here are 13 backpacks that are perfect for college students in 2021.

16 backpacks under $50 that will get kids excited about going back to school

Shop more Back-to-School essentials on Amazon, Walmart and Disney.

Incase ICON Laptop Backpack

Incase ICON Laptop BackpackAmazon

This backpack from Incase is outfitted with compartments for your laptop, tablet and phone, and can fit up to a 16-inch MacBook in a fully padded and faux-fur lined slot for optimal protection.
Buy it on Amazon for $199.95

The North Face Women's Borealis

The North Face Women's BorealisAmazon

This backpack for women is designed with easy-to-access pockets, an overhauled suspension system and a front elastic bungee system. And it doesn't hurt that it's a North Face, one of the most trusted makers of durable, sturdy outerwear and activegear.
Buy it on Amazon for $88.95

The North Face Jester School Laptop Backpack

The North Face Jester School Laptop BackpackAmazon

This laptop backpack from The North Face is simple but still equipped to protect your computer and includes backpack musts like flex vent technology for a comfortable carry.
Buy it on Amazon for $68.95

The North Face Surge Backpack

The North Face Surge BackpackAmazon

This 31-liter high-powered backpack will serve students just as well when it's full of books as it would hikers who are setting out for their next big adventure. Designed with tech-oriented students and professionals in mind, this bag simplifies traveling for people on the go, includes a 14-inch laptop compartment and is made with nylon that includes a durable water-repellent finish.
Buy it on Amazon for $127.36

Kate Spade Karissa Nylon Quilted Large Backpack

Kate Spade Karissa Nylon Quilted Large BackpackAmazon

This backpack from Kate Spade is where form, function and fashion unite. The bag measures in at a tight 13.5 x 11 x 6 inches and comes with a jacquard lining that makes it a great option for female students on the go.
Buy it on Amazon for $130

Adidas Excel Backpack

Adidas Excel BackpackAmazon

It's hard to go wrong with this XL size backpack from Adidas that comes with 4 outside zippered pockets, internal organization, and 15.4-inch laptop and tablet pockets, and built to stand up to serious wear and tear throughout your student's college journey.
Buy it on Amazon for $54.51

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

Matein Travel Laptop BackpackAmazon

This backpack from Matein is comfy, sturdy, includes the requisite laptop sleeve that holds up to a 15-inch computer, and even comes equipped with a built-in USB charger outside and built-in charging cable inside. The very reasonable price tag of $30 makes it a great option for families who are looking not to break the bank.
Buy it on Amazon for $29.99

Swissdigital Design Pixel Backpack

Swissdigital Design Pixel BackpackBest Buy

Whether you're going to class or hitting the mountain trails, this 4-compartment backpack has plenty of room to carry your phones, laptops, water bottles and more, comes with a built-in USB power port and is designed to shockproof polyester fabric meant to protect your valuables from dings and drops.
Buy it on Best Buy for $69.99

Jansport Odyssey Backpack

Jansport Odyssey BackpackCabela's

Jansport has a long legacy of making trusted, lasting backpacks. This 39-liter bag is no exception, and versatile enough to include a 15-inch laptop sleeve or a 3-liter hydration system.
Buy it on Cabela's for $99.99

Nike Elemental Backpack

Nike Elemental BackpackKohl's

If your college-goer is looking for a simpler backpack without all the bells and whistles, this backpack from Nike will get them from class to the gym to the dorm without any fuss. Measuring in at 19 x 12 x 6 inches, this bag comes with a spacious dual-zippered main compartment and two exterior zip pockets to help your student keep their things organized — big and small alike.
Buy it on Kohl's for $32

Vans Ranged Backpack

Vans Ranged BackpackKohl's

This is a simple but rugged choice from legendary skate apparel company Vans, but the real stars of this backpack are the eye-catching patterns (including the checkered designed pictured here) and the palatable price of just over $40.
Buy it on Kohl's for $41.25

Tumi Warren Backpack

Tumi Warren BackpackBest Buy

Luggage leader Tumi is in the backpack game too. The Warren backpack comes with a slew of features including a double-zip entry to the main compartment, single-zip entry to a laptop compartment (fits 13” screens), back slip pocket with magnetic snap, top grab handle with leather trim, and a webbed-nylon loop on front. Perfect for students looking for something minimal in style but reliable and heavy duty.
Buy it on Best Buy for $450

Madewell (Re)sourced Backpack

Madewell (Re)sourced BackpackMadewell

This simple but eye-catching bag from Madewell is designed with soft but sturdy recycled fabric, a padded laptop compartment and even a trolley sleeve to slip on your roller bag — you know, for when you're jetsetting from class to a flight.
Buy it on Madewell for $118.50

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