9 Best School Backpacks UK 2023 | Nike, Dakine and More

Parenting a tech-loving child (who isn't?) who's always complaining their phone is low on battery? Consider this vintage-inspired backpack with a built-in power bank and USB charging port. It has several nifty compartments with room for a laptop too and comes in several colourways including all-black and maroon. 

This bag isn't only good-looking and device-friendly, though – the padded straps can be adjusted for comfort and there's plenty of space for school books and lunch, plus the nylon fabric is shower-resistant so protects precious belongings from the rain. It definitely ticks all the boxes! 

For a larger-sized backpack that'll survive being thrown about more than most and hold up to heavier loads, try Under Armour's Hustle. It's lightweight yet highly durable and functions brilliantly, evenly distributing weight across your growing teen's shoulders. 

The shoulder straps are bolstered with soft, spongy padding and include the brand's breathable HeatGear material for better comfort on those long walks to school. Plus, there are multiple pockets along with a laptop sleeve, space for water bottles and a separate section for sports or PE kits. So there's no excuse for losing anything! 

If your kid is more into surf and skate culture than the latest brands, a backpack from the Grom range by Dakine is a good pick. It definitely looks cool, but it's also pleasingly practical from a parent's perspective – as well as thick, padded straps, there's an extra sternum strap with a safety whistle and reflective details on the back. 

Other notable features include mesh side pockets, a water-resistant rip-stop material, a fleece glasses pocket and a padded base to prevent the bottom from wearing through. It might cost a bit more than some of our picks (especially if you go for a rarer colour), but you definitely won't need to replace it for a good while. 

For wannabe-wizards and witches everywhere (of all ages!), this backpack is a superb choice. Not only is it proudly emblazoned with the Hogwarts crest and logo house title, but it is also spacious, budget-friendly, high quality and supportive. 

With nicely-padded adjustable straps, this bag cares for developing backs even when it's crammed full. It also has a secure buckled front pocket, a padded laptop sleeve and a longer side pocket – just the right size for a wand, perhaps?

This cheerful dragon-shaped backpack is one of a charming range of animal-themed school bags for primary-aged kids, which also includes other classic kid faves like unicorns, dinosaurs and butterflies. It's comfy to wear with padded straps and should last as it's made from extra-durable polyester. 

There's sufficient room inside for a small book, a scarf or similar and a pencil case, plus a front zip for snacks or other extras and a write-on name tag. It has elasticated pockets on either side for a little water bottle or juice cup, too. 

The only bag officially endorsed by the Backcare Charity, this is a great shout if you are concerned about your child's posture and spine as they lug unfathomably heavy books and stationery to school day in day out. Its ergonomic design means it works with your child's body to keep them comfortable and features a ventilated back panel and side bracing straps. 

There are dozens of organisation pockets too, should your child need a bit of help in the organisation department, and the option of a smaller 17-litre size if you prefer. The smart black and white theme also adheres to almost every school dress code and looks just like a 'normal' backpack. Perfect.

Nike is a world-renowned sports brand with good reason. Over the decades they've produced reliable, practical products beloved by active types of all ages, and this sturdy yet affordable backpack made from water-repellent polyester is no exception. 

Reassuringly, this particular backpack from their range has a few more compartments than those designed for sports, including a document holder and space for A4 folders and larger books. Made with school kids in mind, the straps are thick and comfortable and there's even a matching pencil case thrown in for good measure! 

This stylish backpack from reliable and on-trend brand Hype is simple yet practical, roomy and comfortable. It's fastened with a large zip covered in rubber, so it's easy to use and keeps the elements out. We also love that it's available in an astonishing range of designs and patterns to suit your kid's unique tastes.

As well as the closure, the fact it's water-resistant is obviously a huge bonus, meaning it can be used in most weathers without books and precious possessions getting too damaged. We would have liked to have seen another pocket or two, in particular, one for a drinks bottle. 

Though originally produced for Swedish schoolkids in the 70s, there aren't many other backpacks that will appeal to your pre-teen or teen more than Fjällräven's classic Kånken. It's available in dozens of lovely colours, all made from water-resistant vinylal with the signature reflective fox logo and front pocket. 

There are a couple of obvious downsides, the first of which is that the slim straps are not padded (although the back has removable padding), and the second is that a sought-after brand name like this is certainly going to cost you! But it is ever so cool.