Sending your child off to school with a good backpack is as important as having an umbrella on a rainy day: without it, things get ugly! Backpacks are a crucial supporting player in any school experience, be it jumping on the bus for elementary school, or traversing a college campus to make it to class on time.
The choice of a backpack and its features is as individual as your child is, but there are a few common aspects that make some backpacks better than others. See our buying guide below with information and commonly asked questions about how to choose the best boys’ backpack for the little (or big) guy in your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are backpack sizes measured?
The volume capacity of backpacks is measured in liters, but many backpack makers simply list a size by its dimensions in inches. Small backpacks hold around 10 liters or less, and may be up to about 15 inches tall, whereas medium-sized common school backpacks may hold 20-30 liters, and be up to 17 or 20 inches tall.
What does a chest strap do on a backpack?
A chest strap, or sternum strap, on a backpack is a valuable ergonomic feature. Chest straps lock closed and not only keep the shoulder straps from slipping down with movement, but more importantly, they disperse the weight of the backpack. With a sternum strap, all of the weight is not on the shoulders; it is carried also by the chest and upper torso muscles. Generally, when the sternum strap is tight, more weight is displaced than with a loose chest strap.
Buying Guide
Out of the millions of backpacks out there, finding the right one can be like finding a needle in a haystack! As you explore the options in backpacks, it would be helpful to take the following key points into consideration:
- Size: The most immediately apparent quality of any backpack is its size. When you see a backpack, your first thought is usually that it’s too big, too small, or just right. When buying a backpack for a child, size is important, because the backpack should be functional enough to hold everything, but not so big that it’s overpowering or too heavy. Carrying more weight than a small body should can even cause back pain or other medical problems. Smaller 15 to 17-inch backpacks are usually good for elementary school kids, and then older kids can often handle something larger if desired. However, the intended purpose of a backpack is a main factor in choosing the best size. For kids going to school, a midsize backpack is usually sufficient. On the other hand, hiking and camping call for larger backpacks with different types of features.
- Straps: All backpacks have some adjustment in the shoulder straps so that you can get the best feel and fit. Shoulder straps, however, come with different levels of padding. If you’re going to be carrying a lot of weight, then substantial padding is crucial for comfort. Also, consider whether or not an additional chest or sternum strap is important to you. These extra straps that go across the chest help to even out where weight is distributed so that the shoulders don’t take all the strain.
- Pockets: Some people love to organize their things into specific compartments, whereas others just throw everything in the big part. Nearly all backpacks have a large main zippered compartment, and many have interior laptop sleeves as well. In addition, most backpacks have a small to medium-sized zippered front pocket that’s perfect for snacks, phones, and little things to keep within easy reach. Beyond those two basic pockets, the main and the front pocket, backpacks start to diverge. Some backpacks have side pockets that fit water bottles, and other pockets within pockets. Consider the number and size of the pockets in any backpack before you buy to make sure it’s a good fit.
- Material: Backpacks meant for school use are often made of durable, water resistant or waterproof material like polyester or nylon. Alternatively, some backpacks are more like simple casual bags, and may be made from cotton canvas, quilted material, or microfiber. Consider what the backpack will be used for to determine the importance of waterproofness.
Soon, your little learner will be off to school, carrying their books, notebooks, and who knows what else! Time is of the essence, and the last thing you probably want to do is to compare every single backpack on the market. So, to save you a little time, here is a list below of our top picks for the best backpacks for boys:
JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack
Best Overall
Classic Durability
JanSport is a well-established and trusted name when it comes to backpacks, and this SuperBreak One backpack is their midsize bag that comes in a wide variety of colors. Best yet, its thick polyester fabric is water repellent, and its construction is durable and reliable.
Pros:
- Lightweight, rugged mid size backpack
- Large main compartment with front organizer pocket
- Made of thick 600 denier polyester
- 25L capacity
- Large selection of 26 colors
Cons:
- Lacks side pockets for bottles
- May not hold up to heavy wear
You can feel good about sending your child off to school with this quality midsize backpack from JanSport.
FORTNITE Multiplier Backpack
Runner-up
Bold Colorful Designs
This cool-looking FORTNITE backpack stands out in any crowd because of its eye-catching graphic prints. These backpacks come in seven different officially licensed designs with bold repeating prints from the popular video game.
Pros:
- Mid size backpack with officially licensed FORTNITE graphics
- Made of strong polyester
- With interior laptop/tablet sleeve
- Front pocket with 2 inner slip pockets
- 1 side pocket for water bottle
Cons:
- Zipper reliability problems
- Design may be different than photo
Kids who are fans of the game Fortnight go crazy over this backpack because it allows them to show who they are to the world. Plus, it carries their stuff!
VASCHY Lightweight Kids’ Backpack
Cutest Backpack
Perfect for Preschool & Elementary Kids
Summary: With adorable designs that little ones love, these backpacks from VASCHY are lightweight, yet hold a lot while keeping to a manageable 15-inch size that’s easy for younger kids to carry. The extra-long zipper pulls make the compartments easy for small hands to open, too.
Pros:
- Colorful designs with easy-to-pull zippers
- 15-inch size fits small bodies
- Chest buckle for extra security
- Main compartment and zippered front pocket
- 2 side pockets for bottles
- Choice of 13 colorful designs
Cons:
- Water bottle pocket is small
- Zipper gets stuck
Choose from a wide variety of kid-friendly patterns, graphics and colors in this kid-sized backpack from VASCHY.
Rickyh Style Patterned Waterproof Backpack
Best Value
Affordable Style & Functionality
Your child’s individuality shines through with this backpack from Rickyh Style. You can choose from an exceptionally large selection of colorful designs and patterns, so you can find the perfect look in a backpack easily. Additionally, with a 25-liter capacity, this backpack is a comfortable mid size that works well for school.
Pros:
- Loaded with pockets, including inner laptop sleeve
- Ergonomic design with adjustable padded straps
- In 33 stylish designs
- 25-liter volume and 20-pound weight capacity
- 90-day warranty
Cons:
- May not hold up over long-term use
- Laptop sleeve is not padded
Value is the name of the game with this comfortable and lightweight backpack from Rickyh Style that’s the perfect size for school.
BLUEFAIRY Backpacks for Kids
Honorable Mention
Eye-Catching Space Themed Graphics
Your child will love blasting off to school with this unique, space backpack from BLUEFAIRY. This small 17-inch backpack will not disappoint with its many pockets and padded adjustable straps.
Pros:
- Plenty of pockets with main compartment, 2 front and 2 side mesh pockets
- Interior laptop sleeve and small inside zipper pocket
- Made of polyester and nylon
- In 6 space-themed designs
Cons:
- Small in size
- May not last long-term with heavy use
This cool backpack from BLUEFAIRY is a great fit for elementary school kids, and its durability will make parents happy, too.
