15 Best Backpacks For Elementary Schoolers
As the new school year approaches, help your kiddos start off on the right foot for a successful experience with a new backpack! If you’re researching backpacks for elementary schoolers, I’ve put together a list of best backpacks for elementary school (from junior packs to trendy backpacks) to make your choice easier!
Are you getting ready for the new school year and looking for the perfect backpack for your elementary schooler? With SO many options to choose from finding the right one that fits your child’s needs and style can seem daunting.
With three high school boys (and being a backpack lover myself), we’ve been through MANY different kids’ backpacks over the years. I’ve learned a few things that I want to share with you to help make the process faster and easier.
Got multiple kids? Check out my other recommendations for backpacks:
Choosing the Right Backpack for Your Elementary Schooler
When it comes to choosing the right backpack for your elementary schooler, there are several factors to consider, including design, size and storage, and comfort and support.
Design
Consider the design and style of the backpack to make sure it fits your child’s personality and preferences.
For young kids, style also matters, as they often want to show off their favorite characters or colors.
Size and Storage
You’ll want to look for a backpack with enough compartments and pockets to store all of their school supplies, snacks, and a water bottle.
Some backpacks also come with a laptop compartment, which can be useful if your child needs to bring a computer to school.
Comfort and Support
Make sure the backpack is the right size for your child’s age and height, as well as comfortable to wear.
Look for a backpack that is appropriately sized for your child’s height and weight. As a general rule of thumb, the backpack should not be wider than your child’s torso.
Also, the best elementary school backpack for your child will have adjustable shoulder straps and possibly a sternum strap or waist straps to distribute the weight evenly across their back. Make sure your child can put it on and take it off easily and that it sits comfortably on their back.
Top Brands for Elementary School Backpacks
When it comes to choosing a backpack for your elementary schooler, it’s important to consider the durability, comfort, and design of the backpack.
PRO TIP: When I’ve made backpack recommendation lists for older kiddos, I’ve stayed pretty brand-specific because my overriding criteria factor is durability. However, with young children, brand is less important for me. Kids this age change so much in such a short period of time that they will probably go through multiple backpacks anyway.
I aim to be practical! Why spend more than you need to on an expensive bag for a young child when you’re just going to turn around and buy another one?
L.L.Bean
The L.L.Bean packs are known for being high-quality and perfect for students of all ages. I LOVE L.L. Bean backpacks and used to have the larger original book pack myself. I highly recommend these popular school backpacks in various sizes for kids of all ages!
Pottery Barn Kids
Pottery Barn Kids offers a wide range of stylish backpacks for elementary schoolers, including the popular Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie backpack.
Jansport
Jansport is a classic backpack brand that has been around for decades. Their backpacks are a great option for elementary school students thanks to their simple yet functional designs.
State Backpacks
State Bags is a socially conscious brand that offers high-quality backpacks for students of all ages. Their State Kane kids backpack is a great option for elementary schoolers, with its spacious main compartment and front pocket for easy organization.
Herschel Kids Heritage Backpack
Herschel is a popular backpack brand that offers a range of backpacks for students of all ages. Their Kids Heritage Backpack is a great option for elementary schoolers.
Backpack Accessories
There are a couple of things that all elementary schoolers need: lunch boxes and water bottles.
Lunch Boxes
When choosing lunch bags, look for one that is easy to clean and has a secure closure. Some popular options include:
- Bento boxes – These are great for packing a variety of foods in one container. They often have multiple compartments and can be great for picky eaters who don’t like their food to touch.
- Insulated lunch boxes – These are great for keeping food cold or hot, depending on what you’re packing. They often have a shoulder strap or handle for easy carrying.
Water Bottles
Staying hydrated is important, especially for active kids. Many backpacks have a built-in water bottle pocket, but if yours doesn’t, you can slip a water bottle into the bag.
When choosing a water bottle, look for one that is easy to clean and has a secure, leak-proof lid. Some popular options include:
- Stainless steel water bottles – These are durable and can keep drinks cold for hours. They often come with a straw or spout for easy drinking.
- Plastic water bottles – These are lightweight and easy to carry. Look for one that is BPA-free and has a secure lid to prevent leaks.
Best Backpacks For Elementary Schoolers
These options highlight various styles so your kiddo can show off their personal style with a bag that’s perfect for carrying books, lunchboxes, and more!
*NOTE: Prices, availability, and description are accurate at the time of publishing. Please remember that prices can change at any time and sometimes vary based on color and availability.
1. Amazon Basics Classic School Backpack
This choice is an ideal school backpack for elementary schoolers with its blend of durability and practicality.
Pros
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Adjustable padded straps for comfort
- Handy side pockets for water bottles
- Great ratings
Cons
- Not many small compartments
Cost: $27.97
The backpack offers a simple design that’s great for young students. The lightweight, durable fabric ensures that it won’t weigh kids down, even when they pack it full of books and supplies.
Adjustable padded shoulder straps mean it sits comfortably on their shoulders, even during long walks to and from school.
The large main compartment is spacious—perfect for school essentials like notebooks, lunchboxes, and a sweater. There’s also a smaller front pocket, ideal for pencils, keys, or a quick snack.
And don’t forget the external water-bottle pockets – a huge bonus!
2. JanSport SuperBreak One School Backpack
A great kids’ school backpack for students, this bag offers durability and enough space for daily school essentials. These well-made packs are best sellers and great for kids who have to carry heavy loads!
Pros
- Long-lasting material
- Lightweight
- Various solid colors and patterns too
Cons
- Limited interior pockets
- Not very large
- Basic design
Cost: $34.58
I’m pretty impressed with the JanSport SuperBreak One School Backpack’s durability. The material is water-repellent, so a little drizzle won’t soak through to books and supplies.
The backpack is also incredibly light and has great padded and adjustable straps for comfort. If your kiddo has to walk from a school bus stop, this great school backpack may be the best option.
On the flipside, the backpack only has one main compartment. While it’s sufficient for books and a lunch box, there’s no extra space for sports gear or other bulky items. The design is simple, which might not appeal to kids looking for something trendy.
3. MITOWERMI Kids Backpack
This backpack combines durability and style, making it a great buy for elementary school kids.
Pros
- Lightweight but sturdy
- Lots of pockets for organization
- Water-resistant fabric
- Amazing ratings
Cons
- Straps could be thicker
- Limited color options
- Smaller water bottle pockets
Cost: $23.80
This backpack is perfect for young children who need a reliable bag for school. It’s sturdy and lightweight, and I was impressed with the number of pockets (including front pockets), which makes staying organized a breeze.
The water-resistant fabric adds a nice touch, ensuring that all their school supplies stay dry. The vibrant geometric design is eye-catching and popular with kids.
On the downside, the straps can feel a bit thin, especially when the bag is fully loaded. Also, the water bottle pockets are on the smaller side, which might not fit larger bottles.
4. MYGOO Elementary Backpack for Girls
The MYGOO Elementary Backpack is a wonderful choice for young students needing a blend of functionality and delightful design.
Pros
- Sparkling unicorn design delights young minds
- Plenty of room with 24L capacity
- Comfortable to wear with padded shoulder straps
- High ratings
Cons
- Limited color options
- Might be large for smaller kids
- Zippers could be smoother
Cost: $22.99
My first impression of the MYGOO Elementary Backpack was its adorable unicorn design.
The storage space is generous and accommodates all school essentials, from books to lunch boxes. Plus, there are handy compartments for keeping things organized, including a laptop sleeve and side pockets for water bottles.
Despite its many perks, the backpack might seem too large for younger or smaller kids. And we’ve noticed the zippers, while durable, aren’t the smoothest.
5. PUMA Kids’ Meridian Backpack
This backpack combines style and practicality, making it a top choice for elementary schoolers.
Pros
- Plenty of storage
- Comfortable to wear
- Stylish design
- High ratings
Cons
- Limited color choices
- Not machine washable
- Might be too large for very young kids
Cost: $17.17
The PUMA Kids’ Meridian Backpack is an excellent option for kids who want to carry their school essentials in style. It has a main compartment with a two-way zipper that’s spacious enough for books, binders, and even a lunchbox.
On the downside, the backpack comes in limited color options, which might not appeal to everyone. It’s also not machine washable, so you’ll need to spot clean it.
6. Mefawi Backpack for Students
This is a versatile and durable backpack that meets the daily needs of students.
Pros
- Spacious with multiple compartments
- Water-resistant material
- Comfortable padded straps
Cons
- Not machine washable
- Only available in black
- Velcro closure might wear out over time
Cost: $12.99
The Mefawi backpack has four compartments and two side pockets that easily fit all the essentials, like books, water bottles, and a lunchbox that young kiddos need. The padded compartment offers good protection for electronics!
The material feels sturdy and is water-resistant, so stuff should stay dry when it rains. The padded, adjustable shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry for long periods, which is great for school or travel.
7. CAMTOP Backpack with Detachable Fanny Pack
This versatile backpack is ideal for elementary schoolers who need a combination of style and practicality.
Pros
- Detachable fanny pack
- Lots of storage
- Clear pockets for customization
Cons
- Material feels flimsy
- Limited color options
- Might be too large for younger kids
Cost: $29.99
This CAMTOP Backpack with Detachable Fanny Pack offers a unique feature— a clear layer small square bag on top that can be removed and used as a fanny pack. This makes it super versatile for different activities, whether at school or out with friends.
The clear zipper pockets are perfect for displaying pins, badges, and other fun accessories, making the backpack a hit among kids who love to show off their unique style.
The size might be too large for smaller elementary schoolers, so consider the dimensions before purchasing.
8. CAMTOP Kids Backpack
This backpack is perfect for young children who want a colorful bag for school!
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Waterproof lining
- Easy-to-use zippers
Cons
- Sides are thin
- Limited carrying capacity
- Size may not work for older students
Cost: $19.99
The CAMTOP Kids Backpack really stands out for its color-blocked design and waterproof lining. It’s easy to spot in a crowd of bags.
Despite its small size, it still holds the essentials. The reinforced stitching ensures the backpack will last, even with daily wear and tear.
9. mibasies Backpack
These children’s backpacks are an excellent choice for any kiddo who wants to show their love of color and characters.
Pros
- Washing machine compatible!
- Padded tablet sleeve
- Matching lunchbox and water bottle available
- Tons of designs and fun colors to choose from
- Fantastic reviews
Cons
- Zipper can tend to stick a little
I was impressed by how much we could fit inside this adorable backpack! The numerous compartments make it easy to keep everything organized.
Overall, this backpack combines practicality with style, making it a solid option for elementary schoolers.
10. Digi4U Kids Backpack
This backpack is a smart choice for any elementary schooler thanks to its comfort and safety features.
Pros
- Reflective strips for night safety
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear
- Spacious compartments for easy organization
- Great reviews
Cons
- Limited color options
- Slightly small for older kids
- Mesh pockets not very durable
Cost: $17.99
I love how practical this backpack is! The multiple compartments make it incredibly easy to organize books, notebooks, and even a laptop (if needed). Plus, the extra pockets on the side are handy for water bottles and umbrellas.
Unfortunately, the color choices are somewhat limited, and the size might be a bit small for older elementary students.
11. Starry Backpack
This backpack is a wonderful mix of functionality and fun, making it a hit for both kids and parents alike!
Pros
- Fun space-themed design
- Durable and comfortable material
- Lots of storage
- High ratings
Cons
- Limited color options
- Small for older elementary kids
- Only one customer review
Cost: $26.99
We really liked the Starry Backpack because it’s perfect for our little ones. The personalization option is a real standout because every child loves having their name on their items!
The size is just right for young kids. It’s big enough to hold their lunch, a few books, and a few extra items, but not too bulky for them to carry easily. The material feels sturdy yet soft, and it stands up well to daily use.
Plus, the multiple pockets will help your kiddo have a super organized backpack.
12. KBGPW Cute Girls Backpack
This adorable backpack is perfect for elementary schoolers and comes with thoughtful features for daily use.
Pros
- Fun, creative design with plush accessories
- Durable and water-resistant material
- Multiple exterior pockets for easy organization and small items
Cons
- Limited color options
- Slightly larger size may not suit all kids
- Chest buckle might be tricky for younger kids
Cost: $35.21
The KBGPW Cute Girls Backpack feels sturdy and resists daily wear and tear effectively. The cute plush rabbit doll and fun pencil cases add a unique charm, making it special for our young ones.
The padded shoulder straps and anti-slip chest buckle provide comfortable and secure carrying. Overall, this backpack is not just cute but highly functional for daily school activities.
13. abshoo Lightweight Backpack
This backpack is a cute and practical option for elementary schoolers.
Pros
- Attractive design featuring several colors and patterns to choose from
- Roomy interior for all school essentials
- Comfortable with padded shoulder straps and back panel
Cons
- Only comes in one size
- Limited color options
- Might be a bit big for very young children
Cost: $34.99
The abshoo Kids Backpack is a hit with little ones thanks to its fun, engaging design!
I was impressed with the amount of space inside. It easily fits a change of clothes, lunch box, and books without feeling cramped.
Although it’s only available in one size (you can find several color option)s, the overall quality makes this fun backpack a solid choice for young school-goers.
14. Bluefairy Kids Backpack
I love the vibrant design and practical features of the Bluefairy Kids Backpack for elementary schoolers!
Pros
- Eye-catching tie-dye theme
- Plenty of space for school supplies
- Durable and weather-resistant
- High ratings
Cons
- May be bulky for smaller children
- Limited color options
Cost: $28.99
This backpack stands out with its fun design, which is sure to be a hit among young kiddos.
The size may be a bit overwhelming for the smaller students, and more color choices would be nice. This backpack is a solid pick!
15. adidas Creator 2 Backpack
This backpack is a great choice for elementary school kids thanks to its quality and comfort.
Pros
- Made with recycled materials
- Comfortable padded shoulder straps
- Durable with easy-to-clean material
- Great reviews
Cons
- Might be too small for older kids
- Limited color options
Cost: $45.00
I think the adidas Creator 2 Backpack is perfect for young children who need to carry their school essentials comfortably. The three zippered pockets help in keeping things organized.
Additionally, I love that it’s made with recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly pick.
Remember, a backpack is an essential item for your child’s school experience. Take the time to find the right one for them, and they’ll be able to carry all their supplies comfortably and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Backpacks for elementary schoolers should be durable, the right size, and include features and styles they love. Here are some specific questions and answers to help you choose the best backpack.
Look for backpacks that are about 12-15 inches tall for younger students. It should be lightweight and fit snugly, but not be larger than your child’s back.
Popular styles include character-themed backpacks like superheroes, camouflage patterns, and vibrant colors. Boys also like sporty designs with their favorite teams.
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