Finding the right backpack is crucial for middle school students. Not only is it a way to show off your own flair, but it's also an important part of preventing body pain and making a busy school life more convenient. That's why we scoured the internet for the best backpacks and compiled a list of our top 10 favorites for girls.
The North Face Recon School Laptop Backpack comes in at number one. This bag has several different pockets, making organization easy, and has special technology for back and shoulder support. On top of that, it has an endless range of colors! If this bag isn't quite for you, check out the rest of our list for some other worthy alternatives. We've also included a buying guide full of helpful shopping tips!
Quick List - Top Backpacks For Middle School Girls
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There is no such thing as a one size fits all backpack. There’s a lot of crucial factors to consider, so let’s break it all down and find what backpack fits you best!
Shoulder support, especially for middle schoolers, is a highly underrated and important feature to consider in backpacks. For middle schoolers, sufficient shoulder support is especially crucial since they are still growing.
If you're concerned about scoliosis, joint issues, and book-heavy curriculums, you’ll want to consider even stronger support. Look for backpacks that mention heavy shoulder padding and back support. Checking the customer reviews can also help you confirm if it's supportive enough.
Backpack straps range from thin single straps to thick padded straps. In most cases, thin straps are best for more stylish bags that you won't be carrying all day. On the other hand, thick straps are usually designed to be more supportive.
Thin straps can be more convenient because they do not bunch up your clothes. Additionally, they might be more comfortable and prevent chafing.
With long-term use, good shoulder support is more important. Aside from that, you’ll also want to consider waterproofness and durability. Polyester and nylon are both quite durable, and nylon is the most durable out of the two.
If you're considering using this backpack for high school, you might want to go with a classic color rather than a trendy pattern.
For short-term use, you can focus on personal flair. If you want a backpack to cater to this specific period in your life, go with one that reflects your style. Look for features that are important to you right now. This depends on what and how much you need to carry around.
Regardless of how long you decide to use your bag, you should always look for back and shoulder protection!
Many backpacks come with additional features that can make life more convenient. Here are the most common features that you will see!
If you like to keep your stuff separated and organized, it’s worth looking into a backpack with specific pockets and compartments. Laptop dividers are especially useful to help protect your laptop or tablet from breaking.
If your schedule is packed with extracurriculars, side pockets make life more convenient. Side pockets are especially useful for small things you might need to quickly access, like pencils, snacks, gum, and water bottles.
Some people prefer organizing everything immediately, but this is a great solution if you often find yourself short on time.
If you find yourself at after-school practice until dark on most days, reflective tape is a worthy feature to look for. If your middle school is connected to a parking lot, this is a big safety precaution!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | The North Face Recon School Laptop Backpack | ![]() | A Backpack for All Occasions | |
2 | Jansport SuperBreak One Backpack | ![]() | A Classic Backpack With Lifetime Warranty | |
3 | Fjallraven Kanken Laptop | ![]() | A Timeless Fashionable and Functional Bag | |
4 | Herschel Classic Backpack | ![]() | A No-Frills Washable Bag | |
5 | Abshoo Lightweight Water Resistant Galaxy Backpack | ![]() | A Colorful Bag for the Expressive Fashionista | |
6 | Carhartt Legacy Standard Work Backpack | ![]() | A Weather-Resistant and Durable Backpack | |
7 | High Sierra Loop Backpack | ![]() | An Organized Backpack Available in a Ton of Designs | |
8 | Nike Heritage Backpack | ![]() | A Backpack for the Athleisure Wearer | |
9 | Kroser Laptop Backpack | ![]() | An Elegant and Stylish Laptop Bag | |
10 | Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage | ![]() | Compact Expandable Bag With Multiple Pockets for Efficient Travel |
Whether it's for school or outdoor excursions, this backpack can do it all. The molded shoulder straps and lumbar support allow you to comfortably carry your bag for hours at a time. Its fabric has a water-repellent finish to keep your stuff safe. It also has multiple pockets and a protective laptop compartment for easy organization.
Some reviewers say this bag is unbalanced, noting that it can't stand up on its own. However, many reviewers love its simplicity and durability, saying that they expect it to last for a long time. They also appreciate its useful organizational pockets and large capacity.
This backpack has a simple, classic design that's built to last. The padded back panel makes all-day use more comfortable. It has several pockets, including a 15-inch laptop sleeve. This backpack also comes with a lifetime warranty, which means they will replace or repair any damaged bags!
While some customers complain about the zipper quality, it still seems that the warranty isn't entirely necessary. Many customers claim to have these bags circling through their families for decades. Many are especially happy with how much the backpack can hold!
These backpacks have been around since 1960! This bag will never go out of style with its simple style and trademark logo. The fabric is dirt-resistant and water-resistant, making this a good adventure buddy as well as a school companion. The shoulder straps are padded and provide mid-level protection.
Users overwhelmingly love the size of the bag and find it very sturdy. Many reviewers feel the bag is roomy enough to hold anything they need.
If you like carrying just the essentials, this is the bag for you. There aren't any extra organizational pouches or laptop sleeves, but it has plenty of room! This bag has padded contoured shoulder straps and breathable mesh padding to make your school days more comfortable.
A few reviewers say that the bag's material is too stiff. Most reviewers seem to love the bag, however, for its durability and adjustable straps. Many reviewers mention the bag's washability as well, saying it's great for people who are prone to spilling.
This is a solid choice for 7th and 8th graders looking for a way to express their style. Every design is colorful and unique! These bags also have a water-resistant exterior. The back and straps are padded, and it has interior pockets for better organization.
Some customers say that the side pockets are too small for their water bottles. For the most part, however, many customers love this bag for its plethora of pockets and fun design. They also appreciate that it's very lightweight!
Built to be durable and weather-resistant, this backpack is especially great for those who live in unpredictable climates. The shoulder straps are well-padded, which is especially great for middle schoolers that have to carry heavy textbooks.
While some reviewers feel that this bag doesn't have enough pockets, the majority of reviewers are satisfied with its durable, heavy-duty construction. They say that it's comfortable to carry, too.
Complete with a key fob, mesh beverage pockets, a tech sleeve, and a multi-pocket interior, this bag is an organized student's dream bag. There are over 30 fun designs available, too! There are also matching lunch bags available if you like to keep things consistent,
Some reviewers feel that this bag is not big enough for their needs. However, most reviewers say that it's very durable and keeps everything organized. Reviewers love the pockets for their smaller objects, like earphones and house keys.
If you choose athletic shorts over jeans, this is the bag for you. With a sporty-looking exterior, this fits the athletic style while still being functional for school. This bag has a laptop sleeve and several different pockets, too.
While some reviewers report the material looking "cheap" for their taste, most reviewers say this the perfect school backpack. Reviewers are especially impressed with how lightweight this bag is. They also note that it's durable and can hold a lot of items!
Fit for traveling, adventuring, school, and more, this stylish bag is more functional than meets the eye. It has a USB charging port and both external and internal pockets. It's also available in floral prints!
A few reviewers say that the zippers can be difficult to use. On the other hand, many reviewers feel this is the perfect do-it-all bag. Reviewers love that it's a functional and unique book bag that isn't bulky. They also like that it has plenty of space for all of their daily necessities.
The Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage combines functionality with style. With a compact size of 12 x 8 x 20 inches (including wheels), this suitcase features four double wheels for smooth and stable rolling. It offers a front pocket with an organizer, side mesh pockets for convenience, and padded shoulder straps for comfortable carrying.
Designed for easy maneuverability and durability, the luggage is expandable to accommodate additional items, making it a versatile choice for travel. Its sturdy construction ensures it stands up to the rigors of travel while maintaining a sleek, eye-catching appearance.
Ready to fill your backpack with handy school supplies? Take a look at some of our favorite items below!
No. 1: The North Face|Recon School Laptop Backpack
No. 2: Jansport|SuperBreak One Backpack
No. 3: Fjallraven|Kanken Laptop
No. 4: Herschel|Classic Backpack
No. 5: Abshoo|Lightweight Water Resistant Galaxy Backpack
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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