Top 7 Backpacks for College

THE MINNESOTA FAVORITE

 Duluth Pack Deluxe Scout

Duluth Pack is straight out of Minnesota and Made in America. It reminds wearers of their homes in Minnesota, Lake Superior, hiking, kayaking, camping or simply enjoying the outdoors. It uses high-quality materials that create an incredibly durable bag that is guaranteed for life. These packs get better and better with age – they continue to look more rustic, more loved and more Minnesotan.

THE HIPSTER

 Classic Kånken

This iconic Scandinavian bag comes in too many color variations to count. The Classic Kånken’s compact size, boxy appearance, unusually large handles and striking logo (which happens to be a reflector) can be spotted when traveling across many large cities and other countries. Fjällräven’s Kånken has been in style since the 1960s and remains a crowd favorite even in 2017. This is what sets Kånken apart – style meets functionality (which seems to be the trend of the last few years). This bag is dirt and water-resistant, so it can easily be wiped clean.

THE OL' RELIABLE 

 North Face Router Transit

The is North Face’s largest bag that can hold multiple text books as well as a 17-inch laptop with fleece-lined pockets that separate your tablet and smaller personal items. If you are nervous about protecting that new laptop – fleece-lined pockets will ensure no scratches, chips or dents appear. North Face is so confident in their durability and rock-solid design, that they give their customers a lifetime warranty on their products. If that wouldn’t sell you on this choice, I don’t know what would.

THE WALLET-FRIENDLY

 Jansport Big Student

The majority of Jansport’s products are quite cost-conscious. This bag retails for $48, which is enough of an investment to know you are getting quality in return, but it also won’t break the bank. This Big Student backpack is made with college students in mind – it’s roomy and has lots of pockets and compartments for your necessities.

THE MINIMALIST 

 Everlane Modern Snap

Everlane prides itself on high-quality, long-lasting, and minimalist designs while being transparent in its whole production and general company practices. Everlane wants to ensure customers that their purchase does little to no harm to the people, resources and environment involved in production. The Modern Snap Backpack’s drawstring pull and snap-closure elevates the style of this classic bag. Feeling good about your purchase while looking good is a win-win.

THE MODERN

 Matt and Nat Dean 

Matt & Nat is committed to not using leather or any animal-based materials in its designs. Throughout its many years of business, the company has managed to stay sustainable and eco-friendly. The exterior of the Dean backpack is made of vegan leather and the lining is made of 100% recycled nylon. This bag fits a 13-inch laptop and also contains a smartphone pocket.

THE ENVIRONMENTALIST

 Patagonia Refugio

Patagonia is committed to the protection and preservation of the environment. Its mission is one to mention: “Build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis.”

The Patagonia Refugio Backpack has a strong, lightweight body and base made of recycled polyester with a durable water repellent finish.

Honorable mention:

THE ORGANIZED

 Incase City Commuter

Incase’s City Commuter backpack is expandable and delivers multiple divided organizer pockets for all of your college tech. It can hold up to a 15-inch MacBook Pro and it will guarantee that you never have to go rummaging for items in the depths of your bag. 

We think we’ve selected some awesome options. We’ll give ourselves a pat on the back(pack) for that.

^{Published July 2017}