Some want comfort. Some want cool. Some want a backpack that can survive a full year of locker slams, snack crumbs, and unpredictable weather. Good news: we found backpacks on sale that check every box for students and the parents footing the bill. From tried-and-true classics to sleek new favorites, these are the backpack deals worth grabbing before the back-to-school rush turns into a checkout-line brawl.
10 top backpack deals
Back-to-school season is here, and it may seem a little early, but 77% of parents and 70% of college students are getting a head start before August. And that includes tracking down back-to-school basics like some of the best clothes and the best backpacks on sale.
We’ve searched across trusted retailers to find the standout backpack deals that deliver on style, comfort, and durability. Whether you’re shopping for a kindergartener or a college freshman, these picks check all the right boxes.
JanSport SuperBreak Backpack – From $35 at Amazon
A time-tested classic loved by parents who remember the brand from when they were kids, this model boasts a roomy main compartment, padded straps, and hundreds of five-star reviews. JanSport’s iconic SuperBreak provides enduring style and solid quality at a great value.
Fjällräven Kånken Backpack – From $60–$65 on Amazon
This sleek Scandinavian design looks compact but holds a surprising amount. Lightweight and durable, it’s currently discounted on Amazon in a wide range of colors. One of the coolest backpack deals for older students.
Nike Elemental Backpack – $33.97 at Nike
Sporty, water-resistant, and equipped with a detachable pencil case, this backpack is ideal for active students juggling books and gym clothes. And select styles are reduced from its original price on the Nike site.
L.L.Bean Original Book Pack – $39.95 at L.L.Bean
Another time-tested classic like the JanSport above, at the same price. This durable pick is abrasion-resistant, lightweight, and available in multiple colors. While it’s not technically on sale, its quality, durability, and L.L.Bean’s legendary guarantee make its everyday price better than many discounted options.
Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Large Backpack – Starting at $43
Designed for elementary-age students, this ergonomic backpack features curved straps, a chest clip, and tons of fun prints, from dinosaurs to sparkles.
Columbia Zigzag Backpack – $39 at Kohl’s
A great pick for middle or high schoolers with a padded laptop sleeve, water bottle pockets, and enough compartments to stay organized all semester.
The North Face Jester Backpack – From $52 at REI
Rugged, stylish, and built to last. This backpack features FlexVent suspension and reflective details—ideal for high school or college students who carry heavy loads.
Lululemon Everywhere Backpack Knit Mesh – $59 (33% Off)
A fashion-forward design that’s still highly functional. Features an interior laptop sleeve, water-repellent fabric, and soft mesh detail.
PUMA Meridian Backpack (Kids) – $21.60 at Amazon
With vibrant colors and comfy padded straps, this youth-sized pick is the least expensive on our list of picks at under $25 and includes internal pockets and laptop space.
Under Armour Hustle Sport 6.0 Backpack ($33.75 on Amazon)
Ideal for students into sports, The Hustle Sport 6.0 offers a water-resistant finish, a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps, a soft-lined laptop sleeve supporting up to 15” MacBook Pro, and a secondary zip pocket for gym clothes and shoes. And it’s 25% off retail at Amazon.
Tips for saving money on backpacks for back-to-school
Smarter shopping ahead: here are some budget-conscious hacks to maximize savings while snagging a solid ‘pack.
Shop mid-July through August. Retailers like Target and Walmart kick off sales early with major markdowns. Amazon Prime members also get early-bird perks during seasonal events.
Stack rewards. Use Target Circle offers, Kohl’s Cash, or browser extensions like Rakuten for rebates. You can often combine store sales and credit card promos.
Buy early to beat price hikes. According to Axios, rising tariffs and import fees could impact later prices—so it pays to shop now.
Focus on fit and comfort. Pediatricians recommend padded straps, chest clips, and no more than 10–15% of your kid’s weight. Saving $10 is great—saving their back is better.
Bag it before it’s gone
From classic JanSport to trendy Lululemon, this year’s backpack deals prove you don’t need to drop a hundred to get durability, comfort, and serious style. Just be fast — like with all back-to-school shopping, these sales don’t stick around forever.
FAQ
When do backpacks go on sale?
Most backpacks on sale start popping up around mid-July, peaking in early August. Look for flash events from big retailers.
What time of year do backpacks go on sale?
Summer’s your window. From Amazon Prime Day to Labor Day weekend, prices tend to dip during July and August.
What backpacks are trending right now for school?
Top-trending styles include the Fjällräven Kånken, L.L.Bean Book Pack, Nike Elemental, and the JanSport SuperBreak featured on People’s list of best backpacks.
