Anya Hindmarch Smiley Backpack
Photograph: Courtesy Shopbop
Photograph: Courtesy Shopbop

The best backpacks for back to school and more

Graduate from your worn college knapsack to one of the best backpacks on the market that works for the office or class

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Sick of using that old, worn-out backpack from way back when? Upgrade to one of the best backpacks for back to school, travel, road trips and more. If your trusty knapsack looks faded, sports a few holes or is missing a zipper or two, it’s definitely time for an upgrade. The good news is that carrying your goods hands-free has never been this fun. Even heavy loads will feel light as air in the best backpacks for laptops. From Gucci to Jansport, we’ve rounded up the best backpacks for every man, woman and child out there who has stuff to carry–namely, you.

Best backpacks for everyday wear

1. Neoprene stunner

This emerald beauty is crafted from neoprene, a subtly shiny fabric that's as durable as it is cool-looking. The 365 Dakota from Dagne Dover also features super-soft padded straps for ultimate comfort.

$175 on nordstrom.com

2. Betting on simplicity

Simple yet highly functional, this sporty and speckled Nike backpack is truly all-purpose. It’s durable, has multiple compartments and is finished with an internal sleeve for ultimate organization.

$40 on urbanoutfitters.com

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3. American beauty

The Classic Little America backpack from Herschel Supply Co. is aptly named. With its flap drawstring closure, myriad compartments and headphone access port on the side, this backpack can go from commute to camping.

$120 on bloomingdales.com

4. Fun and funky

The Arizona Embroidered backpack is what the edgy French label Zadig & Voltaire do best. This one features their signature skulls rocking out, plus plenty of compartments and card slots for maximum functionality.

$265 on zadig-et-voltaire.com

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5. The crafty commuter

Made with the commuter’s journey in mind, the 30-liter Assert Backpack from Lululemon is ideal for easily accessible storage. Plus, it’s super durable and easy to clean.

$148 on lululemon.com

6. Miniature yet elegant

Salvatore Ferragamo is synonymous with Italian elegance. This miniature color-blocked backpack is made from sumptuous leather and includes a padded mesh panel across the back for all-day comfort.

$1,350 on bloomingdales.com

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7. The carry-all

Tumi is the top name in travel, so why not use one of their trusty backpacks when you’re on the go? This one, in reflective silver, will protect your laptop, tablet and any other gadgets you have on hand.

$380 on macys.com

8. Snappy classic

Everlane is all about classic, practical designs and quality craftsmanship. The navy blue Modern Snap backpack, with black leather trim and a padded interior, is no exception.

$68 on everlane.com

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9. Glamorous Gucci

If glam is your game, look no further than the Gucci GG Supreme Applique Backpack. This luxury statement piece is made from logo coated canvas with leather trim and topped with fun embroidered patches. And it's made in Italy. Naturally.

$2,590 on barneys.com

10. Wink, wink

Not just colourful and fun this technical weave backpack has a sub-compartment embossed with British designer Anya Hindmarch’s signature wink face. Plus, that sunny yellow hue it sports is totally a la mode.

$495 on shopbop.com

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11. Think pink

Deux Lux combines sporty nylon with a carefree bubblegum pink in this collaboration with Shopbop. It’s small and lightweight, making it easy to carry any day, anywhere.

$50 on shopbop.com

12. Slick silver

Fit the essentials in the petite, minimalist Mini Lorimer backpack from State Bags. Its structured pebbled leather body is adorned with monochromatic silver hardware and a youthful contrasting locker loop.

$245 on statebags.com

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13. Chic in chevron

Inject some color into your bag wardrobe by sporting this chevron Jansport knapsack (yes – we’re going old-school). Built for use, this one has all the zippers and compartments you could want or need.

$18 on sears.com

14. Original win

This vintage-looking Adidas Originals style is about to make a comeback. With a rounded top and signature trefoil-lined interior, its cool-factor is off the charts.

$50 on asos.com

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15. Futuristic fun

Not for the stylistically timid, the Mi-Pac Mini Mirror Backpack certainly makes a bold statement. Throw this reflective pack on to spice up any humdrum outfit.

$110 on amazon.com

16. Great in gray

Facing some rough weather? Never fear. This pack’s jacket is resistant to both water and wind, yet remains breathable, so your spare pair of socks and what-not will keep fresh.

$46 on amazon.com

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