The best backpacks for middle and high school in the UK 2023

The vacations are over. It's time to buy school supplies for middle and high school students, especially the backpack. Choosing a backpack is not just about aesthetics, but also about comfort. And according to our research, the North Face Jester stands out thanks to its breathable material, well-padded shoulder straps and storage. Follow the guide to learn more.

Vintage Vaschy backpack 1
9/10

Best value for money

Vintage Vaschy backpack

The best backpack for middle and high school in 2021

Interested in a spacious, lightweight and stylish bag for your child? Try this vintage backpack by Vaschy. It is a large product made of a waterproof fabric. Its various pockets will allow your teenager to be well organized at school and in his daily life.

24,71 £ on Amazon

This backpack is made of waterproof fabric. Its vintage design is unique. Its headphone port allows your child to be entertained wherever he is. Its multiple compartments make it an ally to carry all his stuff. Its smooth zipper as well as the double closure of its main space makes it easy to use.

It also has side placements for the water bottle and umbrella. And its internal pockets will help in organizing your child's school stuff: phone, keys, pencil case, notebooks, etc. This schoolbag is spacious and can even hold a 15.6" laptop. His materials will be protected by a padding. Finally, your teenager will feel a real comfort of use with its robust and adjustable straps.

Asge Casual Backpack 2
8/10

Best value for money

Asge Casual Backpack

The best backpack for entry-level middle and high school

Want a stylish, high-performance backpack for your teen? Why not opt for the Asge casual backpack? Its unique design, sturdiness, and multiple pockets will accompany your child everywhere.

23,99 £ on Amazon

This bag is made of high quality fabric. It is strong and light. Its casual style is perfect for a teenager. Its straps are adjustable and removable to prevent back pain while providing outstanding ergonomics. Padded shoulder straps make the backpack even more comfortable.

This Oxford fabric schoolbag is also waterproof. It has a 15.6" laptop compartment with a padded cover to protect it. Its multiple pockets including 2 sealed on the sides will secure your student's belongings. Robust, this backpack will accompany him everywhere he goes, even to college.

Eastpack Provider Trendy Backpack 3
9/10

Best value for money

Eastpack Provider Trendy Backpack

The best backpack for high-end middle and high school

Wouldn't you like an ergonomic backpack with a chic design? Go for this Eastpack Provider backpack. Designed with a sturdy fabric and featuring pockets and padded shoulder straps, this backpack provides unparalleled comfort.

50,92 £ on Amazon

If you want a stylish, yet practical bag, this one will be perfect. Overall, your child will have a backpack with a front pocket and 2 main compartments. It's roomy enough to put all his personal belongings. This model can actually hold binders, an umbrella, a tablet in addition to his pocket stuff. It can also accommodate a laptop up to 17 inches.

Comfortable, this briefcase has internal padding for both the back and the shoulders. You can choose from more than 20 colors. Its denim-like fabric is trendy, stylish and will give your child a casual look. Another advantage is that this Eastpack brand backpack, a guarantee of quality, will accompany your child throughout his studies.

Asge Classic Backpack 4
7/10

A great choice

Asge Classic Backpack

A smart choice

How about an ultra-rugged canvas backpack for your teenager? With its stylish design, it will give your child a chic look. This backpack is stylish, waterproof, sturdy and ergonomic.

27,99 £ on Amazon

This canvas backpack is perfect for back to school. In addition to being waterproof, it is also hard to tear. Signed Asge, it has a main compartment spacious enough for a laptop. Moreover, it has a USB connection to recharge your devices and a padded protection to protect them from shocks.

With this model and its multiple pockets, your teenager will be better organized. Its side pockets can be used to store your phone, water bottle or umbrella. Its adjustable straps will save your child from possible back pain. With its stylish, yet classic design, this schoolbag can be used for all occasions. You can choose between several colors according to your teenager's preferences. With this light and trendy bag, your child will be both stylish and elegant.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best backpack for middle and high school

Any specific needs?

The best backpack for middle and high school in 2021

The best backpack for entry-level middle and high school

The best backpack for high-end middle and high school

A smart choice

Your guide : Samuel

Rate this buying guide :
3.6/56 votes

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Comparison table of the best backpacks for middle and high school

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Vintage Vaschy backpack 5
9/10
Asge Casual Backpack 6
8/10
Eastpack Provider Trendy Backpack 7
9/10
Asge Classic Backpack 8
7/10
OUR SELECTION
Vintage Vaschy backpack
Asge Casual Backpack
Eastpack Provider Trendy Backpack
Asge Classic Backpack
Interested in a spacious, lightweight and stylish bag for your child? Try this vintage backpack by Vaschy. It is a large product made of a waterproof fabric. Its various pockets will allow your teenager to be well organized at school and in his daily life.
Want a stylish, high-performance backpack for your teen? Why not opt for the Asge casual backpack? Its unique design, sturdiness, and multiple pockets will accompany your child everywhere.
Wouldn't you like an ergonomic backpack with a chic design? Go for this Eastpack Provider backpack. Designed with a sturdy fabric and featuring pockets and padded shoulder straps, this backpack provides unparalleled comfort.
How about an ultra-rugged canvas backpack for your teenager? With its stylish design, it will give your child a chic look. This backpack is stylish, waterproof, sturdy and ergonomic.
Comfort
Dimensions
43 x 30 x 15 cm
46 x 30 x 22 cm
44 x 31 x 25 cm
30 x 16 x 42 cm
Number of pockets and compartments
2 main compartments, 2 bottle pockets and 4 interior pockets
2 large compartments, 4 pockets, 2 sealed
2 main compartments, 1 outside pocket
1 main compartment, 1 front pocket and 2 side pockets
Materials
Waterproof polyester
Oxford fabric
100% polyester
Woven nylon
Adjustable straps
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes

Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - backpack for middle and high school

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How to choose your backpack for middle and high school

Here are the criteria to consider before buying a backpack for high school students.

#1 - The size

The width of a backpack should be relatively proportional to the size of its user. For example, a small child or a teenager with a small build should not opt for an adult-sized backpack. Other than that, the height of the backpack should extend about 5 centimeters below the shoulder blades to the waist level, or just slightly above the waist of its wearer.

#2 - Comfort and ergonomics

Turn to backpack models with wide, well-padded shoulder straps for shoulder comfort and good even distribution of the weight that will be on your back. Also, make sure the shoulder straps are adjustable. This will not only allow for a good fit, but also for proper positioning of the bag on your back. Finally, choose a bag that provides good breathability. This is very important especially for those who live in areas where it is very hot.

#3 - Number of pockets and compartments

The more compartments and pockets your bag offers, the better organized your storage will be. You'll have no trouble finding what you're looking for in your bag, and it will keep you from getting messy and then stressed. If your backpack has a compartment designed to hold a laptop, make sure it's well padded to ensure optimal protection for your machine.

Good to know

There are backpacks with wheels that are perfect for students with lots of books (and more) to lug along the hallways. In addition to having wheels, they also have hidden shoulder straps in a zippered compartment, so when the load is a little lighter, they can be carried like regular backpacks.

#4 - Robustness

Go for

a bag that offers strong seams and good finishes. Avoid scratches, which are less effective and wear out quickly. Inspect the bag's zippers carefully and judge their strength by opening the backpack. Choose a backpack made of polyester or synthetic fabric, which are known to be strong and easy to clean.

How to organize your backpack?

The best backpacks for middle and high school 9

  • Organize your belongings strategically in your backpack

You need to balance the items you carry in your bag for a better weight distribution and to spare your back and shoulders. To do this, place your belongings at the bottom of the bag first according to their weight and frequency of use.

  • Protect your bag as best as possible

Be careful with sharp and breakable objects such as mirrors, scissors or knives that could damage your bag. Be sure to wrap them in a cloth or newspaper before packing them in your bag. Also, take the time to properly store any liquids that may spill into the bag.

  • Prepare your bag in an optimal and strategic way

You need to balance the items you carry in your bag for a better weight distribution and to spare your back and shoulders. To do this, place your belongings at the bottom of the bag first, according to their weight and frequency of use.

Backpack or satchel?

Backpack

A backpack spreads the load along your back and offers more interior compartments to organize all your stuff and is more practical if you plan to bike to school. However, the zippers and flaps are behind you. This makes it a little difficult to access the contents of the bag in a hurry once it is on your back.

In addition, some models are equipped with pockets on the shoulder straps to keep small items, such as a cell phone or a few pens. The only drawback with the backpack is that if it is not equipped with an anti-theft system, you risk having your belongings stolen.

Binder

The schoolbag is a bag with a handle, shoulder strap or shoulder strap for school. The handle models are easy to access and are more stylish than the backpack. The shoulder bag models, on the other hand, give you a backache in the long run since the entire weight of the schoolbag is centralized on the side of the body.

However, in terms of safety, a satchel is more protective against falls and shocks than a backpack because of the rigidity of its body. This ensures optimal protection for your fragile objects.

Verdict

Basically, the choice between a backpack and a schoolbag will depend on your needs and what you are going to do with it. In any case, the backpack seems to be the most popular among high school and college students at the moment because of its practicality, lightness and stylish look. What can we say? The schoolbag has had its day. Now it's time for backpacks!

Why buy a high school backpack?

For its great practicality

A college backpack includes several pockets both inside and outside. With it, your teenager will have all the freedom to organize himself. He will be able to store his personal belongings as he pleases. As a result, your teens won't have anything lying around in their pockets. Many backpacks have compartments for a computer. These backpacks are a must if your kids are already in high school.

For added protection

A college backpack is designed to provide the best protection for your teen's belongings. In fact, it can be waterproof. They can go out even in the rain, without worrying about their stuff getting wet. Generally, the interior of this type of backpack is padded with sponge for more protection against shocks. Therefore, fragile items such as mobile devices are not at risk. Other bags, of more advanced design, even benefit from an anti-theft system.

For its comfort of use

A college backpack is made to be easily transportable. To this end, some models are equipped with small wheels. For comfort, most backpacks have a padded back and shoulder straps.

For versatility

The college backpack can also be useful to your child outside of school. He or she will be able to slip in a few personal belongings for a little outing in nature with friends; the same goes for vacation trips.

For the look

A backpack allows you to carry and secure your children's belongings, but it is also a fashion accessory. There are backpacks with modern designs that you can easily choose according to age: with cartoons for the little ones, pictures of stars or branded backpacks for middle and high school students!

The best brands of backpacks for middle and high school

In our opinion, the best brands of backpacks for middle and high school in 2022 are :

The North Face
Eastpak
JanSport
Puma
Vans

The North Face began in 1968 as a retail climbing gear store in San Francisco, founded by Douglas Tompkins and his wife, Susie Tompkins. It's a brand that offers great value for money. Its backpacks are particularly trendy among young people.

Eastpak is an American brand specializing in the design, development, manufacture and worldwide marketing and distribution of a range of products including bags, backpacks, travel gear and accessories. Its fashionable and rugged backpacks are especially popular with middle and high school students.

JanSport is an American brand of backpacks and collegiate apparel, now owned by VF Corporation, one of the largest apparel companies in the world. The brand was founded in 1967 in Seattle, Washington, USA. This brand is one of the oldest brands in the sports world and its products are among the most sought after by young people. Whether it's their clothing, or their backpacks.

Puma is a German multinational company that designs and manufactures footwear, apparel and accessories for sports and leisure. Puma is the third largest sportswear manufacturer in the world: their backpacks are as rugged as they are fashionable. They are very popular, especially among younger people.

Vans is an American manufacturer of skate shoes and related items (clothing, backpacks, hats, etc.), founded in Anaheim, California in 1966. The brand is trendy and famous for both its quality and longevity.

What is the price for a backpack for middle and high school

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
17 £ to 30 £
Mid-range
30 £ to 50 £
High-end
more than 50 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Cleaning a high school backpack

For a thorough cleaning, fill a bucket with warm water and add 2 tablespoons of mild detergent and clean your bag with this mixture. For a quick cleaning of your bag, use a microfiber cloth, washcloth or sponge soaked in water. Then let it air dry.

Deodorizing a backpack without washing it

You

can deodorize a backpack without necessarily washing it. To do this, put a small amount of baking soda in the bottom of the backpack, then leave it wide open in the sun for a full day.

Disinfection of a backpack for middle and high school

Hang

the back

pack up

and then wipe it down with disinfectant wipes. Then let it air dry.

Backpack storage for middle and high school

The

best way to store a backpack is to put it in a place where it will be easy to grab as you walk by. When you're not using it, hang it somewhere and make sure the place it's in is dry.

FAQ

What is the best backpack for middle and high school?

The best backpack for middle and high school depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide to find the best products out there.

What is the right size backpack for middle and high school?

A school backpack of 21 to 30 litres is ideal. This is actually the most common size for backpacks.

How long can a high school backpack last?

If properly maintained, a good school backpack should survive the wear and tear of at least four years of school, as well as weekend getaways and trips from home to college/high school.

Can I put a high school backpack in the washing machine?

Normally, yes. But it all depends on what the bag is made of. Most backpacks made of nylon or canvas, for example, are safe to put in the washing machine. This is not advisable with a bag with leather edges.

Can I dry my backpack with a tumble dryer?

No. You should never put your backpack in the dryer as this can damage it. Instead, let it dry in the open air and away from any direct heat source.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , lci.fr
  2. , blog.top-office.com
  3. , designuspro.com
  4. , equiterre.org
  5. , aquilabs.fr
  6. , huffingtonpost.fr
  7. , pediact.com
  8. , blog.badabim.fr
  9. , internetvibes.net
  10. , lacartablerie.com
  11. , fnac.com
  12. , bodypack.fr
  13. , bureau-vallee.fr
  14. , eastpak.com
  15. , amazon.co.uk
  16. , edisac.com
  17. , cdiscount.com
  18. , bodypack.fr
  19. , lacartablerie.com
  20. , m.leparisien.fr
  21. , m.leparisien.fr
  22. , mesbagages.com
  23. , cartable-scolaire.com
  24. , fnac.com
  25. , lebarboteur.com
  26. , leconsdechoses.com
  27. , saheline.com
  28. , rentreediscount.com
  29. , tendances-de-mode.com
  30. , cdiscount.com
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Vintage Vaschy backpack 10
Vintage Vaschy backpack
Asge Casual Backpack 11
Asge Casual Backpack
Eastpack Provider Trendy Backpack 12
Eastpack Provider Trendy Backpack
Asge Classic Backpack 13
Asge Classic Backpack

Lecteurs

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