So, you’ve navigated the trials and tribulations of secondary school and are now poised to embark on the next chapter: university or a vocational course. Congratulations! As you prepare for this exciting new adventure, remember one crucial piece of equipment you’ll need: a reliable backpack. This isn’t just any old bag; it’s your portable command centre, housing everything from laptops and chargers to essential snacks and those books you swear you’ll read.
But finding the right backpack can be a minefield. Spend too much, and you’re venturing into the realm of unnecessary extravagance. Go too cheap, and you’ll likely be replacing it before the first term is even over. So, what’s the sweet spot? Here’s a curated guide to some of the best affordable backpacks for students, all under £100, that balance quality, durability, and style.
Backpack Recommendations for Students
Here’s a rundown of excellent backpack choices, catering to different needs and styles:
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Lululemon Everyday Backpack 21L (£88, Lululemon): The ultimate combination of style, longevity, and function. This refined and water-repellent backpack is designed to last throughout your university years and beyond. Its sleek aesthetic and adjustable, padded straps ensure comfort, whether you’re strolling across campus or rushing to a lecture. It features two side pockets for a water bottle and umbrella, a padded pocket for a 16-inch laptop, interior zippered and mesh pockets, and a luggage sleeve for easy travel.
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Fjallraven Skule 20L (£80, Fjallraven): A versatile option for the outdoorsy student. If you find the classic Kanken lacking in space and features, the Skule 20 is a fantastic alternative. Designed for everyday outdoor adventures, it features generous padding for maximum comfort and adjustable chest straps. Side clips allow you to attach extra accessories, and a stretchy toggle strap is perfect for storing a raincoat. It’s crafted from hard-wearing, water-repellent recycled Oxford fabric and includes a padded internal laptop sleeve and various zippered and mesh pockets.
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Uniqlo Multi Pocket Backpack (£39.90, Uniqlo): Ideal for those who love to stay organised. This utilitarian yet stylish backpack, available in olive and black, offers exceptional functionality. With six pockets on the flap, front, and sides, you can keep all your essentials neatly organised. It features a laptop sleeve for a 15-inch screen, a water-repellent finish, and a slide fastener on the back for quick access to your belongings.
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Rains MSN Bag (£79, Rains): Perfect for students at collegiate-system universities. This classic messenger bag is ideal for campuses where cycling between lectures is common. The brand’s signature PU fabric is soft to the touch and incredibly durable, designed to withstand the British weather. It features a 15-inch laptop sleeve, a spacious main compartment, snap pockets on either side, and a stylish carabiner closure.
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Cotopaxi Chiquillo 26L Backpack (£90, Cotopaxi): A vibrant choice for active students. Available in a range of colourful designs, this lightweight and durable backpack is suitable for commuting, studying, trekking, travelling, and more. It includes dual water bottle pockets, internal organisation pockets (including pen and wallet sleeves), a 16-inch padded laptop sleeve, and webbing attachment loops. The front-zippered pocket also features a key clip.
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Roka London Finchley A Carbon Recycled Canvas, Large (£84.95, Roka London): Best for carrying a lot of books. This extra-large, roll-top rucksack comes with a free umbrella and is weather-resistant. With a spacious 20-litre capacity, it’s made from recycled plastic and features a padded laptop or tablet sleeve and two deep side pockets. Students also receive a 15% discount. The back is extra padded, and the adjustable cotton webbing straps ensure comfort.
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Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L (£79.95, Alpine Trek): Offers extra padding and a removable laptop case. This comfortable and stylish top-loader backpack is easy to carry even when fully packed. It’s lightweight, made from Fair Trade certified recycled materials, and features a large inner compartment and two elastic side pockets. The included removable laptop sleeve comes with mesh pockets for cables, notebooks, and pens. The design is also weather-resistant.
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Herschel Supply Co. Weather Resistant Survey Backpack 17.5L (£90, Selfridges): A classic choice for student cyclists. Designed for commuters, this backpack is perfect for campus life. It features a 16-inch laptop sleeve, internal mesh organisers, a reinforced base, and a weather-resistant coating. It’s spacious with magnetic closures and buckles, as well as side pockets. The shoulder straps are padded, and there’s a hidden zippered storage sleeve.
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Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack (£44.97, UA): Includes a shoe compartment for student athletes. This backpack features a dedicated shoe compartment, a water-resistant design, a 15-inch laptop compartment, a wear-resistant base, and two side pockets for drinks.
Choosing the Right Backpack: More Than Just Hype
Selecting a sturdy and reliable backpack is a smart investment in your academic success and overall well-being. These bags are crafted by brands that understand the importance of combining style, comfort, and durability. Look for features like padded laptop compartments, practical storage solutions, robust hardware, and a design that reflects your personal style.
Whether you’re the type of student who prepares for every eventuality or a minimalist who prefers to travel light, there’s a backpack on this list to suit your needs and help you thrive during your university experience.