Best kids backpacks for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Pottery Barn Kids MacKenzie Backpack is our top pick for its premium materials and customizable options that let kids express themselves.
For a reliable everyday classic, the JanSport SuperBreak Plus offers unbeatable value, while the L.L.Bean Original Book Pack is built to survive years of rough handling.
A school backpack is a kid’s daily companion, carrying everything from homework to lunch, gym clothes to art projects. The right one balances comfort, durability, and enough organization to keep chaos at bay. Weight matters: a bag that’s too heavy empty will only get worse as the year goes on. Look for padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and a sturdy bottom that won’t sag. Beyond durability, consider your child’s age and needs. Little ones need easy-to-use zippers and fun designs; older students want laptop compartments and multiple pockets. And never underestimate the power of letting your child pick the color or pattern, a backpack they love is more likely to stay off the floor and actually get used.
Pottery Barn Kids MacKenzie Backpack
The premium choice with personalization
4.6out of 5A beautifully made backpack that feels substantial and looks great. It’s on the pricier side but holds up well and offers fun personalization options. The thick padding and structured base keep books from poking into your child’s back.
Price range: $$$$
Check price on Amazon →JanSport SuperBreak Plus Kids School Backpack
The do-it-all default
4.8out of 5The classic choice that just works. Lightweight, durable, and available in a huge range of colors and patterns. It’s a solid value that rarely disappoints, though it keeps things simple, no laptop sleeve or extra pockets.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →Under Armour Scrimmage 2.0 Backpack Kids
Great for active kids
4.3out of 5A sporty option with a water-resistant bottom and a padded back panel. It’s tough enough for daily school use and has reflective details for safety. The main compartment’s narrow opening can make packing a challenge, and the straps sometimes slip.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Pottery Barn Kids MacKenzie Backpack | 4.6 / 5 | $$$$ | Families who want a long-lasting, personalized backpack with premium materials and who are | Check price → |
| Runner-up | JanSport SuperBreak Plus Kids School Backpack | 4.8 / 5 | $ | Families seeking a reliable, no-fuss backpack at a budget-friendly price that will last th | Check price → |
| Best value | Under Armour Scrimmage 2.0 Backpack Kids | 4.3 / 5 | $$ | Kids who walk or bike to school and need a durable, water-resistant bag with extra safety | Check price → |
| Best for toddlers | Skip Hop Kids Backpack Zoo Pack Little Kid | 4.5 / 5 | $$ | Toddlers and preschoolers who need a lightweight, fun backpack for daycare or very light c | Check price → |
| Best durable | L.L.Bean Original Book Pack Kids | 4.7 / 5 | $$ | Parents who want a backpack that can handle heavy textbooks and still look good year after | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Pottery Barn Kids MacKenzie Backpack: The premium choice with personalization
Best overallA beautifully made backpack that feels substantial and looks great. It’s on the pricier side but holds up well and offers fun personalization options. The thick padding and structured base keep books from poking into your child’s back.
Pros
- Customizable embroidery or patches for a unique look
- Thickly padded shoulder straps and back panel
- Sturdy, reinforced bottom that stands up on its own
- Multiple compartments including a padded laptop sleeve
Cons
- Noticeably heavier than other options when empty
- High price point may put it out of budget for some families
Who it’s for
Families who want a long-lasting, personalized backpack with premium materials and who are willing to invest in quality.Who should skip it
You’re shopping on a tight budget or need the lightest possible bag for a young child.2. JanSport SuperBreak Plus Kids School Backpack: The do-it-all default
Runner-upThe classic choice that just works. Lightweight, durable, and available in a huge range of colors and patterns. It’s a solid value that rarely disappoints, though it keeps things simple, no laptop sleeve or extra pockets.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight, comfortable for all-day wear
- Iconic design that appeals to kids and parents alike
- Very affordable, especially for the quality
- Machine washable for easy cleaning
Cons
- No padded laptop sleeve or tablet compartment
- Limited internal organization; everything ends up in one main compartment
Who it’s for
Families seeking a reliable, no-fuss backpack at a budget-friendly price that will last through elementary or middle school.Who should skip it
Your child needs dedicated padding for a laptop or prefers a more structured bag with lots of pockets.3. Under Armour Scrimmage 2.0 Backpack Kids: Great for active kids
Best valueA sporty option with a water-resistant bottom and a padded back panel. It’s tough enough for daily school use and has reflective details for safety. The main compartment’s narrow opening can make packing a challenge, and the straps sometimes slip.
Pros
- Water-resistant base protects against wet ground
- Padded mesh back panel adds breathability
- Reflective logos and trim for visibility in low light
Cons
- Narrow opening makes it tricky to pack binders or folders
- Shoulder straps can loosen during wear and need readjusting
Who it’s for
Kids who walk or bike to school and need a durable, water-resistant bag with extra safety features.Who should skip it
Your child has a lot of bulky folders or prefers a bag that opens wide for easy packing.4. Skip Hop Kids Backpack Zoo Pack Little Kid: Perfect for tiny tots
Best for toddlersAdorable animal designs that little kids love, with kid-friendly features like easy-open zippers. It includes a matching lunch bag, making it a complete set for preschool or daycare. Just note it’s small and not meant for kindergarten workloads.
Pros
- Fun character faces (owl, unicorn, dinosaur, etc.) that kids adore
- Easy-to-grip zippers that small hands can manage
- Includes a coordinating lunch bag, a huge plus for parents
Cons
- Small size won’t fit standard folders or larger lunch boxes
- Lacks structure; tends to flop over when set down
Who it’s for
Toddlers and preschoolers who need a lightweight, fun backpack for daycare or very light carrying.Who should skip it
Your child is starting kindergarten or needs to carry a standard-sized lunch box and papers.5. L.L.Bean Original Book Pack Kids: Built to last (and last)
Best durableExceptionally sturdy construction with a famous lifetime warranty. It’s a bit heavy for younger children but will survive years of heavy loads. The padding is generous, and the zippers are tough, though interior organization is minimal.
Pros
- Lifetime guarantee that covers defects and wear
- Thickly cushioned back panel and straps for comfort
- Wide selection of colors and sizes
Cons
- Heavier than average, even when empty
- Few internal pockets; everything goes into the main compartment
Who it’s for
Parents who want a backpack that can handle heavy textbooks and still look good year after year, backed by an unbeatable warranty.Who should skip it
You need a lightweight option for a younger child or prefer a bag with lots of organization pockets.Best for specific needs
Best for toddlers and preschoolers
Little kids need a backpack that’s small, lightweight, and fun. The Skip Hop Zoo Pack delivers with adorable animal faces and easy-to-use zippers. It also comes with a matching lunch bag, which simplifies morning routines. Just know it’s best for daycare or very light use, not for full kindergarten supplies. Our pick: Skip Hop Kids Backpack Zoo Pack Little Kid.
Best for heavy loads and long-term durability
If your child carts around thick textbooks or you want a bag that will survive multiple kids, the L.L.Bean Original Book Pack is a workhorse. Its thick padding and rugged construction stand up to daily abuse, and the lifetime warranty gives you peace of mind. The trade-off is extra weight, so it’s better for older elementary students and up. Our pick: L.L.Bean Original Book Pack Kids.
Best for personalization and style
Kids love a backpack that feels uniquely theirs. The Pottery Barn Kids MacKenzie Backpack lets you add embroidery or patches, making it a standout choice. The premium materials and structured design also mean it holds up well over time. It’s an investment, but one that pays off in both looks and longevity. Our pick: Pottery Barn Kids MacKenzie Backpack.
Our verdict
No single backpack works for every child, but the Pottery Barn Kids MacKenzie earns the top spot for families who prioritize quality and customization. For most school-age kids, the JanSport SuperBreak Plus delivers unbeatable value and simplicity, while the L.L.Bean Original Book Pack is the go-to for heavy-duty use. Choose based on your child’s age, typical load, and personal taste, and don’t forget to let them have a say in the color.