12 Best Backpacks for Students with Back Pain | Reviews in 2023

Backpacks are a must-have item for students. The problem is that most backpacks are for people who do not suffer from back pain. If you do suffer from back pain, you may find yourself in a difficult situation when it comes to choosing the right backpack.

It can be very hard to find the best backpacks for students with back pain. You need to be sure that the backpack you choose will be comfortable for you and will allow you to carry the books you need to study without hurting your back.

If you have ever had to carry heavy bags to school, you know how painful it can be. This is especially true if you have a bad back. But there is a way to avoid carrying those heavy backpacks around and that is to buy the right backpack.

Table of Contents

Understanding Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common complaints among students. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that can hinder your daily activities. Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, such as poor posture, heavy lifting, or carrying a backpack that is too heavy.

Causes of Back Pain in Students

Carrying a backpack that is too heavy can cause back pain. Additionally, poor posture while carrying a backpack can also contribute to back pain. Students may also experience back pain due to the long hours of sitting in class or studying.

Choosing the Right Backpack

Choosing the right backpack is crucial in preventing back pain. When shopping for a backpack, it is important to consider its size, weight, and features. It is also essential to try on the backpack and adjust the straps to ensure a comfortable fit.

Features to Consider in a Backpack for Back Pain

When choosing a backpack for back pain, there are certain features that you should look for. These include:

  • Ergonomic design
  • Adjustable straps
  • Padded back panel and straps
  • Waist and chest straps
  • Compression straps
  • Rolling wheels (optional)

Best Backpacks for Students with Back Pain

Here are some of the best backpacks for students with back pain:

Ergonomic Backpacks

Ergonomic backpacks are designed to fit the natural curvature of the spine. These backpacks distribute weight evenly and reduce the strain on the back. Examples of ergonomic backpacks include the Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 and the Targus Drifter II.

Rolling Backpacks

Rolling backpacks are an excellent option for students who have a lot of books and laptops to carry. These backpacks come with wheels and a retractable handle, which makes it easy to roll the backpack instead of carrying it. Examples of rolling backpacks include the High Sierra Freewheel and the Samsonite Wheeled Backpack.

Backpacks with Adjustable Straps

Backpacks with adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit of the backpack to your body. This feature ensures that the weight is evenly distributed, and there is less strain on your back. Examples of backpacks with adjustable straps include the JanSport SuperBreak and the Herschel Little America.

Backpacks with Waist Straps

Backpacks with waist straps are designed to shift the weight from the shoulders to the hips, reducing the pressure on the back. These backpacks also come with adjustable shoulder straps, which ensure that the backpack fits comfortably. Examples of backpacks with waist straps include the Deuter Kid Comfort and the Kelty Redwing.

Backpacks with Chest Straps

Backpacks with chest straps are designed to provide additional support and stability. These straps prevent the backpack from shifting around, reducing the strain on the back. Examples of backpacks with chest straps include the North Face Jester and the Patagonia Refugio.

Backpacks with Compression Straps

Backpacks with compression straps are designed to compress the contents of the backpack, reducing weight and bulkiness. This feature reduces the strain on the back and makes it easier to carry the backpack. Examples of backpacks with compression straps include the Gregory Mountain Zulu and the Mammut Lithium Crest.

Backpacks with Padded Back Panels and Straps

Backpacks with a padded back panel and straps are designed to provide extra comfort and support. These backpacks distribute weight evenly, reducing the strain on the back. Examples of backpacks with padded back panels and straps include the Nike Brasilia and the Under Armour Hustle.

12 Best Backpacks for Students with Back Pain

1. JanSport Big Student Backpack

JanSport Big Student Backpack

JanSport Big Student Bag is a big, roomy backpack with a padded laptop compartment, so you can take your laptop with you wherever you go. The JanSport Big Student Bag is made of durable polyester with a 14.5-inch shoulder drop and a comfortable padded backpack. It also has a water bottle, two front zip, and a side zipper.

The JanSport Big Student Bag is a great choice for students, travelers, and work-at-home moms.

Related: Can You Put a Jansport Backpack in the Dryer

Key Feature of this Product:

– 2 main compartments.

– Padded laptop compartment.

– Water bottle pocket.

– Two front zip pockets.

– Side zipper pocket.

Our Own Thought about this Product:

The JanSport Big Student Bag is a backpack that’s made in part with recycled materials and directed to help keep you organized with two spacious main compartments, a separate padded 15″ laptop compartment, and three front zip sections.

Pros
  • Ergonomic S-curve shoulder strap

  • Front utility pocket with organizer

  • The fully padded back panel

Cons
  • Not Suitable for carrying a few things.

2. Ricky style Backpack for Student’s Bag

Ricky style Backpack for Student's bag

The Ricky style Bag for Students kids bag is the perfect backpack for your students, your children, or yourself. It has multiple compartments to help you organize all your school supplies. It is directed to fit your lifestyle and help you stay organized.

The Modern Geometric Prints Backpack is made of durable nylon fabric with great wear-resistant, anti-strike and anti-scratch performance.

This bag is great for everyday use, school, commute, weekend getaway, short hikes, camping, and more.

Pros
  • Roomy in style.

  • Modern geometric print style.

  • Waterproof.

  • Multi-compartment.

  • Ergonomic design.

  • Durable material.

Cons
  • Does not have a good zippered closure.

3. ProEtrade Backpack Bookbag for School

ProEtrade Backpack Bookbag for School

The Backpack is one of the most versatile pieces of luggage that can be used for many occasions. It is the most convenient way to carry a laptop, books, and other personal belongings.

This is intended with a variety of features that can be customized to meet your needs. The most common backpack is the traditional canvas bag. This style is the most popular for carrying books, laptops, and other items.

Other common backpacks include backpacks with padded straps, backpacks with zippers, and backpacks with a laptop compartment.

Pros
  • Lightweight.

  • Multi-compartment.

  • Multi-purpose.

  • Water bottle pockets.

  • External USB charging port.

  • Anti-theft back zipper section.

Cons
  • A little bit expensive.

4. Osprey Youth Jet 12 Backpack

Osprey Youth Jet 12 Backpack

The Osprey Youth Jet 12 Bag is a youth backpack that is perfect for your little one. The pack is made of a nylon shell and has a mesh back panel that provides ventilation and a fleece-lined shoulder harness. The pack has a number of sections to keep your kid organized.

The external zippered pocket is perfect for snacks or lip balm while the internal zippered pocket is good for small items that need a more secure home. Dual stretch mesh side sections give youngsters a place to store newfound outdoor treasures such as shiny rocks or colorful leaves.

Related: How to Wash an Osprey Backpack? A Comprehensive Guide

Pros
  • The mesh back panel provides ventilation.

  • Fleece-lined shoulder harness.

  • Webbing hip belt with mesh wings and sternum strap.

  • Expandable front stash pocket.

  • External reservoir pocket.

  • One interior zipper pocket.

  • One exterior zipper pocket.

  • Mesh side pockets.

Cons
  • The expandable front stash section is a little small.

5. The North Face Borealis School Laptop Backpack

The North Face Borealis School Laptop Backpack

The North Face Borealis Schoolbag is a perfect choice for students who are looking for a lightweight laptop bag that will fit perfectly into their school backpack.

The Borealis bag is the ideal laptop backpack for students who need a sturdy and comfortable laptop backpack that is also easy to carry around. This backpack is made with a durable nylon fabric that is resistant to getting wet, dirt, and wear and tear.

The North Face bag also features a padded laptop compartment that has enough space for most laptops.

Related: 6 Best Steps – How to Wash a North Face Backpack

Pros
  • Sturdy.

  • Lightweight.

  • Comfortable.

  • Versatile.

  • Easy to carry.

  • Great for school.

  • Easy to clean.

  • Water-resistant.

Cons
  • Most Expensive bag.

6. AMA DABLAM Canvas Laptop Backpack for School

AMA DABLAM Canvas Laptop Backpack for School

AMA DABLAM School Bag is a great backpack for college students. It is made of a durable and flexible canvas and has many compartments to hold your books, notebooks, folders, and other items. It has a padded laptop sleeve and meshes ventilation on the back. It also has a large main compartment and two smaller compartments.

The canvas bag for school hiking work cotton w/ 17in sleeve | durable & dependable (XL, 30 liters) is an ideal bag for daily use, school, college, traveling, hiking, camping, and shopping, this travel bag will be your trusty companion through it all.

With one spacious main compartment as well as many storage compartments for all your needs, you can carry your laptop, cameras, tablets, iPhone, clothes & gadgets, in unparalleled fashion.

The durable canvas exterior is water-resistant and built to withstand the rigors of daily use. This bag was the perfect solution for students. It is spacious, has a ton of compartments, and is extremely durable. The zippers are sturdy, and the stuff is durable.

Pros
  • It is made of a durable and flexible canvas.

  • It has a ton of compartments.

  • It has a padded laptop sleeve.

  • It has mesh ventilation on the back.

  • It has a large main compartment.

  • It has two smaller compartments.

  • It has a zipper closure.

  • It has two side water bottle pockets.

Cons
  • Not suitable for a few things.

  • A little bit expensive.


7. ALTOSY Canvas Vintage Leather Bags

ALTOSY Canvas Vintage Leather Bags

The vintage canvas is a bag with a vintage style. This is made of classic canvas with crazy horse leather(not water-resistant). It has a large capacity, it can fit up to 12.9-inch iPad, A4 magazines, textbooks, clothing, wallet, phone, etc.

The vintage canvas bag is a practical backpack, it can fit gadgets and other items. The classic canvas was used for this bag, so it will be anti-scratch.

The best way to describe this bag is that it is a versatile bag. It is designed for travel, but it is also great for work. It is a backpack that you can take on the go and still be able to use for work.

It has lots of pockets to keep your work stuff organized and easily accessible. It has a laptop compartment that is big enough to fit a 16-inch laptop. It has a padded laptop section that use for any other purpose as well.

Key Feature of this Product:

– Unique vintage style.

– High-quality classic canvas.

– Perfect for school, college, casual daypacks, travel rucksacks, etc.

– It’s so easy to carry.

– With a lot of sections, it’s the perfect backpack for daily use.

Pros
  • Crazy Horse Leather.

  • High-Quality Handle.

  • Durable and Smooth Zipper.

  • Large Main Compartment.

  • 5 Front Pockets.

  • Back Anti Theft Pocket.

Cons
  • It’s not water-resistant.

8. Handmade World Vintage Full Grain 17 Inch Leather Laptop Backpack

Handmade World Vintage Full Grain 17 Inch Leather Laptop Backpack

The most versatile and stylish bag, the Vintage World Handmade Leather Rucksack has been made to withstand the test of time. With its classic style and durable leather, this backpack is the perfect accessory for school, university, or office.

The adjustable buckles and padded top closure provide vintage style and more safety from drop and jerk. The interior is spacious enough for everything you’ll need to carry, with an internal pocket for small items and valuables.

The zippers are all double-stitched, making them more durable. The inside is lined with soft and comfortable stuff and has a zipper pocket and a pen holder. The top is reinforced with a durable mesh panel, and the bottom is padded for additional comfort.

This handbag is made from 100% vegetable-tanned leather, which is color-treated using natural oils.

These vegetable tanning techniques give each bag a unique look and natural water-resistant finish. It adds a layer of charm and character and makes the bags more durable.

Pros
  • Great design.

  • Handmade quality.

  • Durable.

  • High-quality leather.

  • Color-treated using natural oils.

  • Reinforced with a durable mesh panel.

  • Padded bottom for additional comfort.

Cons
  • Not suitable for the heaviest loads. 

  • Use only as handbags.


9. Mancro College School Backpack with USB Charging Port & Lock

Mancro College School Backpack with USB Charging Port & Lock

The Mancro Backpack is a great choice for the college student or business traveler who needs to carry a laptop, tablet, or other devices while on the go. It is equipped with a built-in USB charger, and multiple inside pockets to hold your stuff.

This bag is made from durable and eco-friendly nylon fabric and has a built-in anti-theft lock to keep your stuff safe. The Mancro Bag is 20 x 12. It is an Anti-Theft Business College School Bookbag for Men and Women with a USB Charging Port & Lock.

This is made from WATER RESISTANT and DURABLE ECO-FRIENDLY nylon fabric with Two “S” curve PADDED straps, relieves the stress of the shoulder, has simple but comfortable back style, and offers great back support, and traveling more convenient wherever you go.

Key Feature of this Product:

– Luggage strap style.

– Comes with Password Lock.

– External USB with built-in charging cable.

– Two Side Pockets & Laptop Compartment.

– Light-weight Carrying and perfect for business travel.

Pros
  • USB Port.

  • Anti-Theft Lock.

  • Padded Shoulder Straps.

  • Water-Resistant.

  • Built-In USB Charger.

  • Durable.

Cons
  • Not Suitable for heavily weighted items.

10. TSA 17 Inch Business School College Backpack 

TSA 17 Inch Business School College Backpack

The TSA 17-inch Business School College bag is a convenient and practical backpack for college, work, travel, and outdoor activities. It has a convenient and ergonomic style to make it comfortable to wear. It is TSA-friendly, so you can easily pass through security.

It has a large capacity and organized pockets ensuring that you’ll always get large storage and multiple compartments to keep your personal belongings well-organized and quickly get them whenever you need them.

This bag is designed to hold a 15.6-inch or a 17-inch laptop and all its accessories. It has one separate compartment to hold the laptop and an external pouch that can be used to carry other items as well.

It can help you through airport security and keep your stuff neat, exclusively designed for airplane travel. This travel bag is comfortable breathable shoulder straps that relieve shoulder pressure.

This bag has a sturdy handle on the top for carrying and side compression straps that keep the carry-on backpack secure when you’re in transit. An external USB port with a set-in charging cable provides convenient charging for your cell phone and other electronic devices.

This laptop bag was designed for college students. The built-in padding can absorb shocks and prevent injury to your back, while the adjustable strap is designed to fit all types of students. 

This bag is must recommendable for all personnel who are businessmen, a traveler, and students as well.

Key Feature of this Product:

– Sturdy Handle.

– Anti Theft Back Pocket.

– Multi Panel Air Flow Style and Breathable Padding.

– Luggage Belt.

– Durable Mental Zippers.

– Removable Key Ring.

Pros
  • TSA Style

  • USB Port

  • Luggage Strap

  • Convenient and Ergonomic Style

  • Expandable Design

  • Padding on Back and Strap

Cons
  • No Con it has.

11. Molnia 3 in 1 and 17.3-inch Computer Bag

Molnia 3 in 1 and 17.3-inch Computer Bag

The Molnia 3-in-1 Laptop Backpack is a convenient and versatile laptop bag that is designed to meet your different needs. It is a perfect backpack for men and women, it can be used as a backpack, briefcase, or messenger bag, which can meet your different needs.

The Molnia laptop bag is suitable as a large travel backpack and business backpack for men. Perfect for work, School colleagues, occasional international travel, airplane trips, and hiking or camping.

This backpack can hold up to 17.3 inches of Laptop. It has a buckle that keeps it stable. The hand-held is sturdy and comfortable. The shoulder pad of the laptop bag is made of leather that is non-slip.

The shoulder belts are designed to relieve pressure on your shoulders. It is practical and safe because it is made of high-quality and waterproof thick canvas and nylon material. No more worry about rain. The double-layer foam lining in the laptop backpack protects your computer.

Key Feature of this Product:

– Ergonomic and adjustable shoulder straps increase comfort and padding; padded leather handle for easy carrying.

– This office bag can be easily transported through the handle tube when it is in its upright position.

– This is a durable bag that comes with high-quality waterproof fabric, metal hooks, and metal zippers for better durability.

Pros
  • Lightweight.

  • Convenient.

  • Stylish simplicity.

  • Fashion design.

  • Large storage space.

  • Portable.

  • Durable.
Cons

    12. G-FAVOR Vintage Canvas School College Bookbag

    G-FAVOR Vintage Canvas School College Bookbag

    The G-FAVOR for Women Men Vintage Canvas School College Bookbag is a great choice for you if you are looking for a laptop backpack for school, travel, business, or daily use.

    This bag is very stylish and elegant, with a spacious main compartment, a 15.6-inch laptop compartment, and multi-independent pockets inside. It is very comfortable to carry on the shoulders and has an adjustable shoulder strap for a better carrying experience.

    This laptop rucksack is made of high-quality Canvas and PU Leather, with metal buckles that are durable and sturdy. The size of this slim laptop backpack is 46 x 32 x 14 cm (18 x 12.6 x 5.5 inch), a brown leather backpack with separate sections.

    Pros
    • Durable Materials & Solid

    • Spacious & Fashion Backpack

    • Comfy & Sturdy

    • Backpack Purse for Women & Men

    Cons
    • Not suitable for heavy weights.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, choosing the right backpack is crucial in preventing back pain. When shopping for a backpack, it is important to consider its size, weight, and features. Features such as an ergonomic design, adjustable straps, and padded back panels and straps can significantly reduce the strain on the back. By selecting one of the backpacks mentioned in this article, you can ensure that you have a comfortable and supportive backpack.

    FAQs

    How heavy should my backpack be?

    Your backpack should not exceed 10-15% of your body weight.

    Should I use a rolling backpack or a traditional backpack?

    It depends on your needs. A rolling backpack is ideal for carrying heavy loads, while a traditional backpack is better for mobility and ease of use.

    Can a backpack with waist straps prevent back pain?

    Yes, backpacks with waist straps are designed to shift the weight from the shoulders to the hips, reducing the pressure on the back.

    Are there any other ways to prevent back pain in students?

    Yes, maintaining proper posture, exercising regularly, and taking frequent breaks can help prevent back pain in students.

    What should I do if I already have back pain?

    If you already have back pain, it is important to consult a doctor or physical therapist. They can provide you with proper treatment and exercises to alleviate the pain.