College Backpacks
A great college backpack should offer the perfect mix of style, comfort and functionality for students of all ages. Whether you’re heading to school, starting university or commuting to lectures, the right backpack helps keep everything organised and easy to carry. With padded laptop compartments, spacious interiors and ergonomic designs, these backpacks make student life easier, no matter where your studies take you.
From School to University – Backpacks That Keep Up With You
From stylish school backpacks to spacious university backpacks, Samsonite offers a range of designs that balance practicality with modern style. A student backpack needs to handle heavy books, laptops and daily essentials while staying comfortable for long days on campus. Whether you're looking for a cool school backpack, a lightweight college backpack or a durable backpack for university, you’ll find the perfect match in our collection.
Top Features to look out for in College & Student Backpacks
Choosing the right student backpack means finding a balance between organisation, durability and comfort. Whether you need a reliable bag for daily lectures, long study sessions at the library or weekend trips home, a well-designed backpack makes all the difference. Samsonite’s student backpacks are built to handle the demands of school, college and university life, ensuring that you stay organised and comfortable throughout the day.
- Spacious Compartments: A good student backpack needs to carry more than just books. Look for designs with multiple compartments to keep everything from notebooks and binders to neatly stored tech accessories. Dedicated sections for pens, chargers and smaller essentials help keep everything easily accessible.
- Laptop Protection: Many students carry a laptop or tablet daily, making a padded compartment essential. A well-cushioned laptop sleeve protects your device from bumps and scratches, while secure straps prevent shifting during transit.
- Ergonomic Comfort: With long days spent moving between classes, a comfortable backpack is key. Adjustable padded straps evenly distribute weight, reducing strain on your shoulders. Many designs also feature breathable back panels that enhance airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable even on busy days.
- Smart Storage: Staying organised is easier with well-designed storage solutions. Look for backpacks with designated pockets for water bottles, keys and tech accessories like headphones and power banks. Hidden compartments add an extra layer of security for valuable items such as wallets and passports.
- Durable Materials: A student backpack needs to withstand daily use, whether it's being tossed into a locker, carried across campus or used for travel. High-quality materials ensure longevity, while water-resistant fabrics provide extra protection against unexpected weather.
Best Backpacks for Students by Age Group
Different stages of education come with different backpack needs. A school student may need a trendy and functional backpack that can carry textbooks and stationery, while a university student might prioritise a laptop compartment and all-day comfort. For commuting students, a backpack that’s lightweight yet durable is a must. Whether you're a student selecting the perfect backpack or a parent looking for a reliable option for your child, here’s what to consider at every stage.
Best School Backpacks
School students need a backpack that’s spacious, durable and comfortable, as they often carry a mix of textbooks, notebooks, tech accessories and personal items. The best high school backpacks should have multiple compartments for easy organisation, padded straps for comfort and a lightweight build to prevent unnecessary strain.
Parents shopping for a school backpack should consider options with reinforced stitching, strong zips, and water-resistant materials to handle daily wear and tear. For students, choosing a backpack with a stylish yet functional design ensures it looks great while providing everything needed for a busy school day.
Best College & University Backpacks
University and college students need a versatile and practical backpack that can transition from classrooms to coffee shops, libraries and even weekend trips. A good uni backpack should have a dedicated laptop compartment, padded shoulder straps and multiple storage sections for books, devices and essentials.
Many students juggle part-time jobs, gym sessions or social events, so a backpack with expandable storage and a lightweight build is ideal for carrying everything needed for the day. Some models also include USB charging ports and RFID-blocking pockets, offering convenience and security for students on the move.
For students who carry a laptop on a daily basis, check out our laptop backpacks for extra protection and storage.
Best Backpacks for Commuting Students
For students who travel between home, campus and study spots, a comfortable and secure backpack is key. Ergonomic padded straps, breathable back panels and lightweight materials make carrying heavier loads easier, while weather-resistant fabrics protect belongings from unexpected rain.
Security is also a priority for students commuting on public transport or through busy city areas. Backpacks with hidden zips, RFID-blocking compartments and lockable pockets provide extra peace of mind for carrying valuables like wallets, phones and laptops.
For those who need extra storage for weekend trips or study abroad programmes, explore our travel backpacks for even more versatile options.
Explore More from Samsonite
Looking for other backpack styles? Check out these categories:
- Laptop Backpacks: Designed for students who need secure laptop storage.
- Smart Backpacks: Featuring built-in USB charging ports and RFID security.
- Travel Backpacks: Great for students who need extra space for trips or study abroad.
FAQ
What size backpack is best for college students?
The right backpack size depends on how much you need to carry each day. A 20L-25L backpack is ideal for students who primarily need space for a laptop, a few books and daily essentials. If you carry additional items like gym gear, extra notebooks or a lunchbox, a 25L-35L backpack provides more storage without becoming too bulky. For students who have long days on campus or need space for weekend trips, a backpack with expandable compartments can offer extra flexibility.
What features should I look for in a student backpack?
A well-designed student backpack should provide a balance of comfort, organisation and durability. Padded laptop compartments help protect electronics, while multiple storage pockets make it easy to keep books, stationery, and accessories organised. Adjustable straps and breathable back panels improve comfort, especially when carrying heavier loads. Water-resistant materials can be a great addition for students who commute or walk between classes in different weather conditions.
For added security, look for backpacks with hidden compartments or lockable zips, which help protect valuables when travelling or in crowded areas. If security is a priority, explore our extra secure backpacks, designed with extra safety features such as RFID-blocking pockets and tamper-resistant zips.