In this post, I am going to talk about what you should look for in a backpack for the little scholar in your life.
This isn’t just about picking a bag with their favorite cartoon character on it; it’s also about ensuring their comfort throughout the school day.
When it comes to selecting the best back to school backpacks for kindergarten students, comfort and ergonomic design are just as important as style and fun.
Ergonomic Designs Play A Major Role
You might be wondering how ergonomics can play a role in something as simple as a backpack, but trust me, it matters.
A backpack that evenly distributes weight can prevent your child from developing back pain or posture issues.
That’s why looking for backpacks with adjustable straps and padded backs is key to keeping your kindergartener happy and healthy.
Choose A Backpack That Combines Style With Functionality
Now what is a big draw for kids? The look of the backpack, of course.
You’ve got to balance functionality with designs that will make them excited to carry their backpack every day. Choose something that resonates with them, whether it’s a pattern, a color, or a theme.
There’s a lot of opportunity in backpack shopping to get creative and let your child express their personality.
This backpack designed for an elementary school girl combines both style and functionality with a FUN rainbow pattern.
mibasies Girls Backpack for Elementary School, Backpack for Girls 5-8, Lightweight Kids Backpacks for Girls（Rainbow）
Suitable for girls, Ages 5 to 8 Yrs.
This backpack for elementary school girls features a lightweight design that is made from a hard-wearing polyester fabric.
Product Features At A Glance
- One main compartment for carrying books, clothes, folders and more
- Water-resistant
- All stitching is reinforced
- Zippers on this backpack operate smoothly
- Two flexible water bottle sleeves
- front pocket is insulated
- Shoulder straps are thickened and decompressed
- Name tag on the inside
- Breathable sponge back to promote airflow
There are LOTS of great colors to choose from for girls and boys.
There is also a handle on the top of the backpack, which allows the bag to be carried by hand or carried on the back.
Where To Buy: Amazon
When deciding on a backpack for your child, make sure the pack is made from durable materials that will stand up to the school year.
Choose A Backpack Made From Durable Materials
Of course, you can’t overlook the importance of durable materials that can withstand the rigors of a daily kids’ life. Choose materials that are easy to clean and maintain, because those inevitable spills and stains are all part of the kindergarten experience.
For that soccer fan in your household, this backpack for boys is made from durable materials that can stand up to the daily vigors of school life.
Boys Backpack Kids Bookbag Durable Elementary Middle School Bags Soccer 18in (X-Blue)
Suitable for Ages 6 to 15 years
This boys backpack features one main zippered compartment, one laptop compartment, (2) front zippered pockets and (2) water bottle side pockets.
Made from a durable materials, this backpack is waterproof, soft to the touch and anti-wrinkle. It is also easy to clean.
The shoulder pads have been ergonomically designed to make it comfortable to carry the backpack without fatigue to the shoulders and spine.
The cool football elements are full of Sports vitality. This cool backpack measures 18 x 12.5 x 8 inches and would be perfect for an elementary or middle school student.
According to customer reviews, ‘this backpack is durable in construction, is very spacious, can fit a lunch box, the padded shoulder straps are adjustable and distribute the weight evenly, the colors are vivid, the book bag has many compartments for carrying school supplies, etc.’
Where To Buy: Amazon
Safety Features Offer Peace Of Mind
Lastly, safety is a huge concern for any parent. This is why selecting a backpack with reflective materials can give you peace of mind as the days get shorter and the evenings get darker.
Safety should always be on your backpack shopping checklist.
In the next section, I’m going to talk about which brands of backpacks offer a balance of comfort, functionality, and style.
Backpacks That Standout & Lead The Pack
Now that we’ve covered what makes a backpack suitable for your little scholar, let’s highlight some of the best brands out there that tick all the right boxes.
When I say ‘criteria for a top backpack brand,’ I’m talking about a mix of durability, design, and kid-friendliness.
These brands understand that a backpack isn’t just a bag; it’s a child’s daily companion.
Firstly, let’s talk about a few brands that stand out in terms of their robust design.
Skip Hop Backpacks
Skip Hop has built a reputation for creating adorable backpacks that can withstand the rigors of kindergarten life.
They offer a variety of playful themes and patterns that kids can’t wait to show off at school.
They are also the perfect size for kiddos starting school. Here are some popular choices for girls and boys.
Zoo Big Kid Backpack – Butterfly
Suitable for Ages 3+ (Fits kids over 48 inches tall)
The Zoo Big kid backpack for girls is so adorable in a butterfly design. The roomy interior is just the right size for school folders, supplies, a lunch bag (and more!)
This cute big kid backpack fits all the essentials your child will need for the classroom and beyond.
A wide, easy-access opening plus a clear front pocket comes in handy for storing school supplies like crayons, erasers and more.
The elasticized mesh bottle pocket comes in handy for carrying a water bottle or a drink.
The padded straps are adjustable to provide your kiddo with a comfortable fit.
Another backpack that is popular choice for girls is this ice cream themed backpack.
Parents LOVE this backpack for its cute design, quality of materials, the sturdy straps, and the perfect size for a child starting school.
Where To Buy: Skip Hop
Skip Hop Sparks Kid’s Backpack, Kindergarten Ages 3-4, Ice Cream
For Ages 3 years+ (fits kids 43 to 49 inches tall)
Make school days extra sweet with this fun and functional ice cream-themed backpack from Skip Hop Spark Style.
Product Description:
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Perfect for preschoolers (ages 3+): Spacious main compartment plus front pocket for snacks and essentials
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Built for convenience: Mesh side pocket for juice boxes and adjustable padded straps with a top handle for easy carrying
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Durable and easy to clean: Made with phthalate-free, wipe-clean materials and eye-catching zipper pulls
With playful design, practical features, and kid-sized durability, this backpack is a delightful pick for little ones heading to preschool and beyond.
Where To Buy: Skip Hop
Another style backpack that your child might love is the Skip Hop Spark Style Big Kid backpack in ‘Strawberry.’
Spark Style Big Kid Backpack – Strawberry
For Ages 3y+ (fits kids over 48 inches tall)
This cute backpack in a ‘strawberry‘ design is finished with eye-catching details that include cute zipper charms.
It features a wide, easy-access opening plus a clear front zip pocket for carrying school essentials.
The backpack is spacious enough for school-sized folders, a lunch bag and all the essentials your child needs to carry for her busy day.
The mesh bottle pocket on the side is the perfect companion for keeping a drink handy.
This backpack is the perfect size for your kiddo to take to kindergarten or any other adventure you have planned.
Where To Buy: Skip Hop
Another sweet design for a kindergarten child is this ‘Narwhal’ backpack from Skip Hop.
Zoo Big Kid Backpack – Narwhal
This adorable backpack with 3-D details & signature ZOO® characters, is just the right for a child to take to kindergarten.
It features a roomy interior that will hold school sized folders.
This backpack also has an easy-access wide opening with a clear front pocket for holding school essentials.
The elasticized mesh bottle pocket is great for carrying that much needed drink.
This backpack also has an interior slip pocket and adjustable padded back straps offering a comfortable fit.
The backpack measures 9.75W x 4.25D x 13H.
Where To Buy: Skip Hop
Another pattern that is really popular for girls is the ‘Rainbow Style’ backpack
Spark Style Big Kid Backpack – Rainbow
This big kid backpack for a school aged girl is SO cute in a rainbow theme.
It is the perfect size for school-sized folders, a lunch bag and all the essentials your child will need to take with her to school.
- A wide, easy-access opening plus a clear front zip pocket make it convenient to pack and grab necessities, while the mesh bottle pocket keeps drinks handy
- Finished with eye-catching details and cute zipper charms, this backpack would be suitable for school or weekend adventures
This adorable backpack also features adjustable padded shoulder straps and a top grab handle for convenient carrying.
The durable fabric is easy to clean and is Phthalate-free.
The product dimensions of this backpack are 5 x 10.5 x 14 inches.
Where To Buy: Skip Hop
For boys heading off to kindergarten this fall, there is the Zoo Big Kid Backpack – Dino from Skip Hop.
Zoo Big Kid Backpack – Dino
This adorable backpack for boys features a 3-D dinosaur design. The roomy interior offers plenty of space for carrying school-sized folders supplies, a lunch bag and more.
A wide, easy-access opening plus a clear front pocket makes it a easy to pack and grab necessities.
The mesh bottle pocket keeps drinks at the ready for your kiddo when he get thirsty.
The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable for a comfortable fit. This backpack is suitable for kids over 48 inches tall.
Where To Buy: Skip Hop
Another favorite for little boys is the Big kid spark style soccer backpack.
Skip Hop Sparks Kid’s Backpack, Kindergarten Ages 3-4, Soccer
Suitable For Boys Ages 3+
Let your little one’s personality shine with the Spark Style Big Kid Backpack!
With a roomy interior for school folders, a front zip pocket, mesh bottle holder, and fun zipper charms, it’s both functional and full of flair.
Perfect for busy school days and big adventures.
Where To Buy: Amazon
Lands’ End Kids Backpacks
Lands’ End kids’ backpacks are known for their durable construction, comfortable fit, smart organization, and thoughtful features like reflective trim and personalization.
They are also available in different sizes for girls and boys. They offer some really cute patterns for girls and boys that I think any school aged child would LOVE.
One of my favorites if you are looking for a smaller backpack for your kindergarten kid is this one in ‘Pastel Cheetah.’
Kids ClassMate Small Backpack
Sized just right for younger elementary kids (approx. 17″H x 12″W x 7″D), this backpack offers:
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A spacious main compartment, interior folder sleeve, and zippered front pocket for easy organization
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Padded shoulder straps, adjustable chest strap, and PE foam back panel for all-day comfort.
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Durable 600D polyester build with reinforced handles, base, and sturdy mesh water bottle pockets.
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Reflective trim on front and back for better visibility and personalized embroidery options.
A reliable, comfortable, and kid-friendly backpack designed to keep up with school life.
There are LOTS of colors to choose from for boys and girls.
Where To Buy: Lands’ End
This next backpack in ‘Ombre Hearts‘ is a medium sized backpack for kids.
Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack
The Lands’ End Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack is designed with younger students in mind, combining durability, comfort, and smart organization.
Key Features:
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Perfectly sized for early elementary kids (approx. 17″ H × 12″ W × 7″ D)
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Spacious main compartment with inner folder sleeve and front zip pocket
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Padded shoulder straps, chest strap, and breathable mesh back panel for all-day comfort
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Built tough with 600D polyester, reinforced base, and sturdy zippers
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Dual mesh water bottle pockets and reflective trim for visibility
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Personalize with initials or fun icons for a custom touch
This backpack offers the ideal mix of function, comfort, and style—ready for anything the school year brings.
Where To Buy: Lands’ End
You can also get this Kids classmate backpack in ‘Evening Blue Daisies’ as well as other colors.
Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack
This Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack is sized for elementary kids (17″ H × 12″ W × 7″ D) and designed with a roomy main compartment, interior folder pocket, and front zip pocket to keep supplies neatly organized.
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Comfort-first design: Padded shoulder straps and an adjustable chest strap help balance weight and protect growing.
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Everyday durability: Crafted from lightweight yet tough 600D polyester with reinforced handle, lining, and base, plus mesh water bottle pockets.
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Safety and style: Reflective trim boosts visibility, while included personalization options let kids make it uniquely theirs .
With thoughtful details and school-ready features, this backpack is a reliable companion from morning drop-off to pickup and beyond.
Where To Buy: Lands’ End
Lands’ End also makes this adorable backpack in ‘Cheetah Cats’ for girls.
Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack
Sized just right for elementary schoolers, this backpack features a spacious main compartment, interior folder pocket, and front zip pocket to keep essentials organized.
Made from durable 600D polyester with padded shoulder straps, an adjustable chest strap, and mesh side pockets, it offers comfort and sturdiness.
Reflective trim enhances visibility, while personalization options let your child add their own touch—ideal for everyday school use.
Where To Buy: Lands’ End
Lands’ End also offers some really COOL patterns in backpacks for school aged boys.
Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack
In the picture: Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack in Neon Camo
For boys, you can also get this medium backpack in ‘Black Space Print. ‘
Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack
Shop On Lands’ End
The brand Jan & Jul also makes backpacks for school aged children. These backpacks are designed for kids ages 4 to 8 yrs.
Jan & Jul Backpacks
This first backpack for girls is really sweet in ‘pink rainbow.’
Kids Backpacks | Pink Rainbow
Designed for extra carrying capacity and comfortable support, this backpack has lots of room for school supplies, a lunchbox, a change of clothes and even a stuffy!
The main compartment fits a standard-sized binder, featuring an internal mesh pocket and name label for extra organization.
The front compartment features an organizer panel with pencil holders, a zippered mesh pocket, and secure key lanyard.
There are also two water bottle holders and an adjustable strap for buckling in a lunch box or change of shoes.
This adorable backpack also has wide shoulder straps, an adjustable chest support strap with safety whistle, and soft knit at the back for ultimate comfort.
There are also safety reflective loops on the front pouch and shoulder straps are perfect for hanging a name tag or little charm.
Where To Buy: Jan & Jul
You can also get this backpack from Jan & Jul in a ‘Dino’ pattern for boys.
Kids Backpacks | Space Dinos
Shop On Jan & Jul
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to many parents, and brands like L.L.Bean and JanSport are setting the example.
They are leaning into environmentally friendly practices, producing backpacks that are both sturdy and kinder to the planet.
Here are some backpacks from L.L.Bean that have been designed for kids ages 4 and up. The capacity of these backpacks are 17 L.
LL.Bean Backpacks For Kids
If your son is a dinosaur FAN, then he will love this backpack with an adorable dinosaur print.
Junior Original Book Pack, 17L, Print
This Junior original book pack features a dinosaur print and is made from 100% weatherproof polyester.
The main compartment has ample room for a lunch box, a few toys and an extra set of clothes.
The comfortable back panel and shoulder straps are designed to fit smaller backs and arms. The zippers are extra tough for years of use.
This adorable backpack also features:
- Front pockets feature a key clip, an organizer panel and a place for small treasures.
- There is a water bottle pocket on the side
- 3M Scotchlite™ Reflective Material on the front and straps is highly visible to motorists at night
Where To Buy: L.L. Bean Canada
If your kiddo, is fascinated with bugs, then this backpack is available in ‘Pinewood Green Bug’ pattern.
Junior Original Book Pack, 17L, Print
Shop On L.L.Bean Canada
You can also get this book pack for girls in ‘Clear Emerald Lazy Daisy.’
Junior Original Book Pack, 17L, Print
Shop On L.L.Bean Canada
This book pack is perfect for ages 4 and up.
Made from durable materials, this backpack with capacity of 17 L has ample room for a lunch box, a few toys and an extra set of clothes.
If you would prefer a plain color for your child, I also really like this backpack in ‘Purple Clover.’
Junior Original Book Pack, 17L
This elementary school backpack is both stylish and functional for younger children.
Made from of weatherproof 100% nylon, the zippers on this backpack are extra strong for years of use.
The main compartment has ample room for carrying a lunch box, a few toys and an extra set of clothes.
The comfortable back panel and shoulder straps are designed to fit smaller backs and arms.
The front pocket features a key clip, an organizer panel and a place for her favorite treasures.
There is a handy side pocket for storing a water bottle or drink.
This backpack has also been designed with 3M™ Scotchlite™Reflective material on front and straps is highly visible to motorists at night.
Where To Buy: L.L.Bean Canada
Check For Warranties & Customer Support
When choosing a book bag, look for one with a warranty and reliable customer support—you’ll have peace of mind if it ever needs replacing.
Read Customer Reviews For Feedback
Lastly, you can’t beat real-world feedback from parents and kids alike.
The brands that I have mentioned above, get excellent feedback from parents and kids for their cool factor, and parents love them for their quality and value.
You May Also Like: The Best Backpacks For Elementary School Kids – Designs They’ll Love
In Summary,
I hope that you found this article and product suggestions to be helpful in your quest to find the perfect backpack for your kindergarten child!
