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Shop July 28, 2025

The Right Stuff: Shop top backpacks for back-to-school season

PHOTO: 'The Right Stuff' spotlights backpacks for back-to-schoo
Pottery Barn Kids, Calpak, Nike, Amazon
'The Right Stuff' spotlights backpacks for back-to-schoo

Preparing for the back-to-school season goes beyond gathering pencils and notebooks -- a reliable backpack is one of the most important essentials for students of all ages.

With so many fun, functional options available, it's helpful to consider factors like size, durability, comfort and style when making your pick.

This week's deals for kids: Back-to-school savings and more up to 67% off

The right backpack can not only withstand the daily wear and tear of school life but also help kids express their personality and stay organized.

Lifestyle contributor Lori Bergamotto curated a list of her favorite backpacks for every stage of schooling from preschool to high school.

Whether you're looking for sparkles, sports themes, or sleek functionality, there's something here for every student.

Scroll down to check out these back-to-school backpack picks and some bonus finds to help your child feel confident and ready to tackle a brand-new year.

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Preschool pick

These backpacks are built tough for little learners and are bursting with personality. From glittery ombre to glow-in-the-dark galaxies and sporty patches, the Mackenzie collection offers playful designs that make kids excited to head to school. With adjustable straps and roomy interiors, they're as functional as they are fun.

Mackenzie Rainbow Ombre Sparkle Glitter Backpack

Price: $79 · 20% Savings
From Pottery Barn Kids

Original: $99.50

Mackenzie Navy Solar System Glow-in-the-Dark Backpack

Price: $35 · 21% Savings
From Pottery Barn Kids

Original: $44.50

Mackenzie Green Sports Chenille Backpack

Price: $47 · 21% Savings
From Pottery Barn Kids

Original: $59.50

Mackenzie Lavender Floral Blooms Backpack

Price: $30.99 · 21% Savings
From Pottery Barn Kids

Original: $39.50

Early elementary school pick

Designed for ages 5 to 8, this backpack is the perfect in-between size for kids just starting school. Kids can personalize it with patches and charms, making it a durable, stylish option for school, activities and short trips.

Kids Medium Backpack

Price: $78 · From Calpak

Elementary school pick

Ideal for kids on the go, this Nike backpack is ready for both class and sports practice. It's perfect for athletic kids who need a bag that works as hard as they do.

Nike Varsity Elite

Price: $90 · From Nike

Middle school pick

This backpack earns high marks for both style and capacity. With lots of color options and classic JanSport durability, it's made to keep up with busy middle schoolers juggling homework, sports and social lives.

Big Student Backpack

Price: $55 · From JanSport

HIgh school pick

This minimalist Scandinavian design is a favorite among teens for good reason. While it's not water-resistant, its iconic style and functional layout make it a sleek pick for high school students navigating full schedules.

Fjällräven Kånken Laptop Backpack

Price: $92 · 23% Savings
From Amazon

Original: $120

Value pick

Looking for a fun, functional backpack that won't break the bank? Wonder Nation's backpacks come in playful prints and offer plenty of space for books, folders and even a laptop.

Wonder Nation Kids Unisex 16" Backpack

Price: $4.97 · From Walmart

Family pick

Ideal for families with multiple kids or growing students, the ClassMate backpack is available in a variety of sizes and styles. It's made for everyday comfort with padded straps, a chest strap to reduce shoulder pressure, a reinforced handle and roomy side mesh pockets.

Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack

Price: $24.97 · 50% Savings
From Land's End

Original: $49.95

Day care pick

This compact and stylish mini backpack is perfect for toddlers and day care-aged kids. It's sized just right to fit their favorite toy, a snack, and a change of clothes, all while featuring bold, personality-packed designs.

STATE BAG Kane Mini Backpack

Price: $105 · From STATE

More 'GMA' picks

LunchBots Large Trio Stainless Steel Lunch Container

Price: $39.99 · From Amazon

Nordic By Nature Reusable Sandwich Bag Snack Bags

Price: $19.97 · From Amazon

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw for Sports and Travel

Price: $29.99 · From Amazon

EASTHILL Big Capacity Pencil Pen Case

Price: $12.99 · 18% Savings
From Amazon

Original: $15.99

ban.do Rough Draft Large Spiral Notebook

Price: $17.95 · From Amazon