Backpacks: Reviews

Updated August 2012

ConsumerSearch editors evaluated dozens of reviews from both experts and owners to guide you in choosing the best backpack no matter what your age - from preschooler to adult commuter. Performance, comfort and durability were considered to give you the picks listed below.

The North Face Jester

Best backpack for adults and college students

$55

Estimated Price

The North Face Jester easily hauls a laptop, notebooks and textbooks. It's also comfortable, thanks to ergonomic shoulder straps and a removable waist belt.

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JanSport Big Student

Best backpack for high school

$40

Estimated Price

The JanSport Big Student holds enough books, electronics and accessories for the busiest high school student. Ergonomic shoulder straps help distribute the load for maximum comfort.

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JanSport SuperBreak

Best backpack for elementary and middle school

$30

Estimated Price

The JanSport SuperBreak is simple, functional and sturdy. It's light enough for an elementary student, but it can hold anything a middle-schooler needs.

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Lucky Bums Dragonfly 15

Best backpack for kindergarten

$50

Estimated Price

Lucky Bums Dragonfly 15 stands out for its comfort and safety features. It's just large enough to hold a 1-inch binder, but small enough that it won't burden a youngster.

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Skip Hop Zoo Pack

Backpack for toddlers and preschoolers

$20

Estimated Price

Skip Hop Zoo Packs' brightly colored animal-shaped bags are sized to fit small bodies. Better yet, parents say they are easy to clean.

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L.L.Bean Rolling Deluxe Book Pack

Best wheeled backpack

$100

Estimated Price

The L.L.Bean Rolling Deluxe Book Pack is the sturdiest rolling backpack we evaluated. It's comfortable to walk with and holds everything you need for work or school.

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See a side-by-side comparison of key features, product specs, and prices.