Security is the name of the game in modern life. Transparent backpacks offer easy viewing of everything inside your bag, and make everyone’s life easier, often eliminating the need for time-consuming, invasive bag searches that create tedious long lines.
Clear backpacks are required by many schools and businesses, and they’re also a lifesaver for bringing needed personal items into festivals and stadiums. This requirement can feel restrictive, but once the grumbling stage has passed and you’re ready to shop for a clear backpack, you’ll see that some of the options in these transparent beauties are pretty cool. Check out our buying guide below, followed by our recommendations for the best clear backpacks on the market:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of clear backpacks?
Aside from the obvious benefit of security, clear backpacks actually have several additional benefits. First, they’re made of waterproof plastic. Pretty floral fabric bags would get soaked instantly in the rain, but water easily beads off clear PVC plastic. Secondly, yes, THEY can see your stuff. But the upside is that YOU can see your stuff! You’ll never need to wonder, “Did I put my lunch in my backpack?” or “Do I have my phone?” With one quick glance, you’ll know the answer. Next, a big benefit of clear backpacks is their affordability. Plastic is an affordable material, and this is one benefit that will save you some money as compared to the more expensive traditional backpacks, which can cost over $100. Finally, one last benefit is uniformity in schools. Mandatory clear backpacks level the playing field, and eliminate the use of designer backpacks as status symbols, a practice that can cause emotional stress on kids and incur financial demands on parents.
Are clear backpacks all the same?
There is actually a nice variety of clear backpacks on the market. The plastic may be clear, but the seams and trim need not be. Therefore, many clear backpacks offer brightly colored trim and zippers to add a flair to an otherwise mundane appearance. Some manufacturers even offer transparent color-tinted backpacks, so you get the benefit of a splash of subtle color throughout. Also, clear backpacks come in different sizes, and with different types of pockets. For example, you can purchase a clear backpack that is large enough to hold a 15-inch laptop, or a petite clear backpack that fits little bodies or works well with smaller items.
How long will a clear plastic backpack last?
The truth is that clear plastic is simply not as durable as the heavy duty polyester of many traditional and hiking backpacks. However, security is paramount in the world today. Well-made transparent backpacks may last for a full school year, or possibly only months with rough daily handling. However, manufacturers have found ways to help you get the longest life out of your clear backpack. Look for reinforced seams, all-around quality construction, and a warranty from the seller, just in case.
Buying Guide
Just when you thought all clear backpacks were the same, we’re here to tell you that they’re not! There are several important aspects to consider when picking out the best transparent bag for your needs. Here are some key points to keep in mind with regard to clear backpacks:
- Size: Clear backpacks are available in sizes from easy-carry minis to extra large. Think about what you need to bring, especially your need or desire to have a backpack that can fit a laptop. The size of your laptop and larger books is the best determiner of how big of a backpack you’ll need. For example, if you have a 13-inch laptop, then most mid size, 15-inch bags will do. However, if you want to tote a 15-inch laptop in your backpack or if you have some oversize books, then you’ll need one of the large 17 to 19-inch clear backpacks.
- Color: Although the word “clear” is the opposite of color, as you shop for clear backpacks, you’ll see that many sellers offer backpacks with colored trim, and some even have color-tinted clear plastic. Even though your belongings have to be on display, there’s no reason you can’t go without a fun splash of your favorite color! Clear backpacks come with either basic black trim and zippers or are available in bold, bright yellows, purples, blues and reds, and also more muted tones. Check out the options and pick your favorite color!
- Durability: All clear backpacks are not created equal. Some plastic is thicker than others and won’t get holes after being set down on rough pavement day after day, and some backpacks have stronger hardware and seams throughout. Look at the seller’s product descriptions for information about the strength and durability of each bag, including the ruggedness of the shoulder straps.
- Pockets: All backpacks have one main large compartment, but backpacks diverge when it comes to the other pockets. Some have only one additional pocket, which is a front zipper pocket. This front pocket may be small or large, comparatively. Side pockets are a point to consider with clear backpacks. Some clear backpacks come with mesh side pockets for water bottles, while others may have zipper side pockets that fit phones well, while still others lack any side pockets. Consider what suits your needs best when it comes to the pockets in your clear backpack.
Selecting the right backpack from the sea of flexible, see-through plastic out there can be confusing, and even a little frustrating if you don’t know what to look for. So, we’ve taken the time to evaluate, compare, and review many of the clear backpacks on the market today. Read on for our top picks for the best clear backpacks:
Amazon Basics Clear School Backpack
Best Overall
Essential Durability
While other clear backpacks may tear after a short time of daily use, this clear backpack from Amazon Basics holds up well.
Pros:
- Reinforced seams and shoulder straps for heavy loads
- Main compartment and front zipper pocket
- 17-inch size fits most laptops
- Mesh side pockets for water bottles
- Also available in tote bag style
Cons:
- No color choices
- Has creases from being folded in shipping
It doesn’t get much more basic than Amazon Basics’ clear backpack, which is straightforward and does a quality job job for a reasonable price.
JOMPARO Heavy Duty Clear Backpack
Runner-up
Large Front Zipped Pocket
If you always felt like the front pocket on a typical backpack wasn’t big enough, then this clear backpack from JOMPARO fits the bill. Both the main compartment and the front zipper pocket are conveniently spacious. In addition, this backpack comes in a choice of several popular colors of trim.
Pros:
- Thick transparent PVC with reinforced shoulder straps
- 16.5-inch size fits most laptops
- Side pockets for water bottles
- In choice of 7 trim colors
Cons:
- Straps may start to tear over time
- May develop holes with regular use
You’ll notice the impressive thickness in the clear plastic in JOMPARO’s clear backpack as it serves all of your needs with ease.
F-Color Large Clear Backpack
Largest Backpack
Roomy Enough for a 15-Inch Laptop
This 17” x 14” x 6” bag from F-Color has a more rectangular shape than some backpacks, which adds to its volume capacity. This backpack comfortably holds a laptop up to 15 inches, and it comes in a large variety of trim colors, including rainbow.
Pros:
- Generously-sized main compartment fits laptops well
- Made of thick 0.5mm clear PVC
- Stadium approved
- Reinforced, padded shoulder straps can carry up to 65 pounds
- In choice of 14 colors
- Optional matching handbag
Cons:
- Warranty gives minimal coverage
- Straps may break over time with heavy use
Take this backpack from school to the stadium or festival and fit all of your stuff inside easily. F-Color’s clear backpack supports heavy loads, too.
USPECLARE Small Clear Backpack
Best Small Clear
Compact Bag that Holds a Lot
This cute bag from USPECLARE is only 12 inches tall, but has the same 6-inch depth as many larger backpacks, giving it ample volume capacity in a small package. Also, while other clear bags may come with colored trim, these backpacks are available with color-tinted PVC as color options.
Pros:
- Small clear bag with flat front zipper pocket
- 1 mesh side pocket for water bottle
- Made of clear PVC with metal zippers
- In choice of 8 colors, included colored transparent plastic
Cons:
- Doesn’t fit laptops or large books
- Straps may be too small for some adults
USPECLARE’s small clear backpack is a perfect solution for those looking for a more compact alternative to large, traditionally-sized backpacks.
DALIX Clear Backpack Bag
Best Value
With Both Handles & Shoulder Straps
The vivid trim colors on this backpack from DALIX allow you to stand out in the crowd, even when clear packs are required. This bag is unique in its dual-carry options: You can use the padded shoulder straps to wear it as a backpack, or carry it by hand with the two convenient hands.
Pros:
- Mid size 15-inch bag with bold-colored trim
- Fits a 13-inch laptop
- Made of heavy clear vinyl and polyester
- Festival-approved and TSA-compliant
- Zippered side pockets perfect for phone
- In choice of 12 bright colors
Cons:
- Only 4 inches deep
- 26-inch max straps may be too small for some adults
For a clear backpack/bag at a great price, look no further than this versatile, practical bag from DALIX.
