Back-to-school isn’t just about syllabi and dorm snacks—it’s about setting yourself up for everything the semester throws at you. Whether you're running across campus, cramming at the library, or heading home for fall break, these picks bring smart design, real style, and plenty of personality. These are the best backpacks for college, plus a few ride-or-die extras you’ll be glad to have on hand.
Designed to Handle Full Schedules: The XL Bancroft Backpack
If you’re hauling textbooks, a laptop, snacks, and maybe a change of clothes for PE, the XL Bancroft Backpack has your back…literally. With three spacious compartments, expandable water bottle pockets, and a compartment that fits a laptop up to 17", it’s built for long days on campus and longer nights in the library. Bonus: Its trolley sleeve makes heading home for the weekend a breeze.
Dimensions: 12.0" w x 16.75" h x 10.0" d
Weight: 2.09 lb
Capacity: 38 L
Smart Enough for Any Class. Cool Enough for the Quad: The Large Bancroft Backpack
Need a backpack that can handle heavy-duty days without weighing you down? The Large Bancroft Backpack is roomy without being bulky and features a dedicated laptop sleeve, multiple compartments, and space for that oversized iced coffee. It fits up to a 15” laptop and tucks perfectly under lecture hall desks. Stylish, durable, and ready for anything.
"This backpack is the best! Super light weight, straps slide over clothing smoothly but don't slip down. Holds a lot and wipes clean!" ~ Jane
Dimensions: 12.0" w x 16.5" h x 9.0" d
Weight: 1.83 lb
Capacity: 22 L
A Campus-ready Class Act: The Bancroft Backpack
The original Bancroft backpack is a classic for a reason. This backpack is perfect for students who want a clean, structured silhouette with just enough space for a laptop, notebooks, a planner, and maybe your favorite pen set. With thoughtful pockets (including two water bottle slips), this is one of the most versatile college backpacks for women who want form and function to work in harmony.
"I got this backpack for college and it is exactly what I wanted." ~ Finley
Dimensions: 12.0" w x 15.5" h x 8.0" d
Weight: 1.52 lb
Capacity: 24 L
Lightweight and Laid-Back: The Just Right Bancroft Backpack
For shorter days or lighter schedules, our Just Right Bancroft Backpack earns its name. With room for a tablet or small laptop, a notebook or two, and your everyday essentials, it’s ideal for those times when you don’t want to feel weighed down, like club meetings, coffee runs, or study groups on the lawn.
Dimensions: 11.5" w x 14.5" h x 6.0" d
Weight: 0.76 lb
Capacity: 19 L
Your Weekend Bag: The Large Original Duffel Bag
Going home for fall break? Our Large Original Duffel fits everything you need for a few nights away, plus the snacks you’re stealing from your parents’ pantry. It’s soft-sided, easy to carry, and loaded with pockets for the organized (or at least aspiring to be organized) student.
"I was surprised how much I could pack easily without adding the extra weight of a suitcase. There were more pockets than I had anticipated; color and pattern are fun and bright!" ~ Becky
Dimensions: 22.0" w x 11.5" h x 11.5" d
Weight: 1.47 lb
Capacity: 58 L
Scan In with Ease and Style: The Zip ID Pouch with Breakaway Lanyard
This compact MVP keeps your student ID, meal card, and dorm key all in one place. The breakaway lanyard makes it a safe, no-fuss option for campus life, and the zip pouch adds room for coffee money or lip balm. No more digging through your bag while the line builds behind you.
Dimensions: 5.0" w x 3.0" h
Strap: Removable, adjustable strap at longest drop 18.0"
For the Color-Coded, Note-Taking, Highlighter-Loving Student: The Pencil Pouch
You bring the school supplies. We’ll bring the pouch that keeps them looking cute and staying put. Whether you're heading to class or just like being prepared, this compact pencil pouch makes staying organized a little easier and a lot more stylish.
"I love this for carrying pens and pencils and it's easy to find in my bag." ~ Audrey
Dimensions: 9.0" w x 3.0" h x 2.0" d
Good Sounds Deserves Good Storage: The Zip Earbud Bag Charm
Hook it to your bag. Pop your wired or wireless earbuds inside. Done. This little charm keeps your tech tidy and adds just the right pop of personality to your backpack.
Dimensions: 3.25" w x 2.75" h x 2.0" d
No One Does Campus Style Like You
Whether you’re deep into your major or just figuring it all out, the right bag helps you show up with confidence and style. These are more than just the best backpacks for college students, they’re also a reflection of your personality, your priorities, and your path.
