8 Best Backpacks for College Students 2018 Nymag: Top Durable Picks

Last Updated on December 18, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead

There’s nothing more frustrating than rushing to class with a heavy, uncomfortable backpack that just won’t fit all your stuff. You try to organize your books, laptop, and daily essentials, but the bag feels bulky and awkward.

It makes your day harder and leaves you tired before it even begins. Choosing the right backpack can change all that. A good backpack keeps your things safe, feels light on your shoulders, and helps you move through your day with ease.

Whether you’re heading to lectures or studying late at the library, the right bag makes life simpler and more comfortable. In this article, we’ll explore the 8 best backpacks for college students in 2018, including trusted brands like JanSport and ZORFIN. Keep reading to find the perfect backpack that fits your style and needs.

Zorfin 26l Black Backpack

The ZORFIN 26L Black Backpack is ideal for students and travelers who need a reliable, stylish, and functional bag. Perfect for college-goers and frequent travelers, this backpack offers ample space and durability to carry books, gadgets, and essentials comfortably. If you are looking for a versatile, water resistant bookbag that combines convenience and protection, this product is a great choice.

Pros:

• Water resistant material protects belongings from rain and spills
• Lightweight design at only 1.23 pounds for easy carrying
• Spacious 26L capacity with well-organized compartments for books and travel items
• Sleek black color suitable for various occasions and outfits
• Compact dimensions (16.5″ H x 13.0″ W x 8.0″ L) fit easily into lockers and overhead compartments

Cons:

• Limited color options, only available in black
• May lack advanced padding for heavy electronic devices

The ZORFIN 26L Black Backpack is crafted with high-quality, water resistant fabric that ensures your belongings stay dry in unpredictable weather. Its lightweight and compact dimensions make it easy to carry throughout the day, whether you are attending classes or navigating airports. The backpack’s 26L capacity offers ample room for textbooks, laptops, and travel essentials, all while maintaining a sleek and modern appearance.

The design focuses on user convenience with multiple compartments that help organize your items efficiently. The black color gives it a professional yet casual look, making it suitable for both educational and travel purposes. Despite its lightweight nature, the backpack is sturdy and durable, providing excellent value for those seeking a reliable bookbag that can withstand daily use and adverse weather conditions.

To buy this product, click here.

Jansport Cool Backpack

The JanSport Cool Backpack is an excellent choice for students, professionals, and daily commuters who need a reliable and stylish bag to carry their essentials. Ideal for those who carry a laptop up to 15 inches, this backpack offers ample space and ergonomic comfort, making it perfect for anyone seeking a practical and durable everyday backpack.

Pros:

• 15-inch laptop sleeve provides secure and padded protection for your device.
• Two spacious compartments for organized storage of books, gadgets, and accessories.
• Ergonomic straps ensure comfortable carrying even during long commutes.
• Lightweight design at only 1.0 pounds reduces shoulder strain.
• Classic black color fits any style and setting.

Cons:

• Limited color options may not appeal to those wanting more variety.
• The bag’s medium size might be insufficient for carrying bulkier items or larger laptops.

The JanSport Cool Backpack is designed with functionality and comfort in mind. Its large computer bag rucksack style features a dedicated 15-inch laptop sleeve that keeps your device safe and easily accessible. The two compartments offer organized space for books, notebooks, and other essentials, making it ideal for students and professionals alike. The backpack’s lightweight construction coupled with ergonomic straps reduces fatigue and supports better posture.

With dimensions of 17.0 inches in height, 12.0 inches in width, and 8.0 inches in length, this backpack strikes a balance between capacity and portability. Whether you’re heading to class, work, or a weekend trip, the JanSport Cool Backpack delivers reliable performance and style. Its durable build and classic black finish ensure it will complement any outfit while standing up to daily wear and tear.

To buy this product, click here.

Swissdigital Design Travel Laptop Backpack

The Swissdigital Design Travel Laptop Backpack is ideal for students, professionals, and frequent travelers who need a reliable and stylish backpack that can securely fit a 16-inch notebook. This backpack is perfect for both men and women who value functionality, durability, and modern features like a built-in USB charging port to stay connected on the go.

Pros:

• Lightweight design at only 1.61 pounds for easy carrying
• Spacious enough to fit laptops up to 16 inches
• Durable black material suitable for daily use
• Convenient built-in USB charging port for device charging
• Multiple compartments for organized storage

Cons:

• Limited color options (only black available)
• May feel compact for users needing extra large storage

The Swissdigital Travel Laptop Backpack features a sleek and minimalist design with dimensions of 17.5 inches in height, 12.5 inches in width, and 6.75 inches in length, making it a compact yet spacious option for carrying your essentials. Its lightweight construction ensures that it won’t weigh you down, while the sturdy material offers protection and longevity for everyday use. The backpack’s dedicated laptop compartment fits notebooks up to 16 inches, safeguarding your device from bumps and scratches during travel or commutes.

One of the standout features is the integrated USB charging port, which allows you to conveniently charge your electronic devices without needing to open the backpack. This is especially beneficial for those constantly on the move, such as college students or business travelers. Additionally, the Swissdigital backpack provides multiple compartments and pockets, helping users stay organized by separating laptops, chargers, books, and other personal items. Overall, it combines practicality with modern technology to meet the needs of a busy lifestyle.

To buy this product, click here.

Maelstrom Laptop Backpack

The Maelstrom Laptop Backpack is ideal for students, professionals, and travelers who need a reliable and stylish bag to carry their laptops and essentials. Designed to fit laptops ranging from 15.6 to 17.3 inches, this backpack is perfect for those who want a spacious yet compact solution for daily commuting, school, or business trips. Its waterproof and anti-theft features make it a great choice for anyone prioritizing security and durability in a modern backpack.

Pros:

• Waterproof material protects your belongings from rain and spills.
• Fits large laptops up to 17.3 inches, accommodating a wide range of devices.
• Equipped with an anti-theft design to keep valuables safe.
• Includes a convenient luggage strap for easy travel.
• Spacious compartments for organized storage of books, gadgets, and accessories.
• Sleek and professional black color suitable for both men and women.

Cons:

• May be slightly bulky for those seeking a lightweight backpack.
• The anti-theft features might require some adjustment for quick access.

The Maelstrom Laptop Backpack combines functionality with style, making it a versatile companion for everyday use. Its dimensions of 17.32 inches in height, 7.1 inches in width, and 12.2 inches in length provide ample space without compromising portability. Whether you’re headed to college, the office, or a weekend getaway, the backpack’s compartments help keep your laptop and accessories well-organized and protected.

Additionally, the backpack’s waterproof exterior and anti-theft features offer peace of mind in various environments. The integrated luggage strap enhances convenience for travelers who want to securely attach the backpack to their suitcase. Overall, the Maelstrom Laptop Backpack is a durable, stylish, and practical choice for anyone needing dependable daily protection for their tech and essentials.

To buy this product, click here.

Jansport Superbreak One Backpacks

The JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack is ideal for students, commuters, and casual users seeking a durable and lightweight bookbag that combines functionality with simplicity. Those who need a reliable everyday backpack with ample space for essentials and organizational features will find this product especially suitable. Its classic design and premium quality make it a great choice for anyone wanting a versatile backpack in black.

Pros:

• Durable construction for long-lasting use
• Lightweight design reduces carrying fatigue
• Spacious 1 main compartment for books and larger items
• Front utility pocket with built-in organizer for easy access to smaller essentials
• Compact dimensions (16.5″ H x 12.5″ W x 5.5″ L) suitable for everyday use
• Sleek black color that matches any style

Cons:

• Limited padding may not be ideal for carrying heavy electronics
• Single main compartment offers less organizational separation compared to multi-compartment backpacks

The JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack features a robust build that ensures durability while maintaining a lightweight profile, making it easy to carry throughout the day. The single main compartment provides ample space for textbooks, notebooks, or a laptop sleeve, catering well to students or professionals who need to transport their daily essentials without unnecessary bulk. The front utility pocket includes a built-in organizer, allowing users to keep smaller items such as pens, keys, and a phone neatly arranged and easily accessible.

Its compact size and classic black color offer versatility in both style and function. Whether heading to school, work, or casual outings, users benefit from the backpack’s streamlined design that doesn’t compromise on storage capacity. The lightweight nature reduces strain on the shoulders, and the quality materials used by JanSport guarantee a premium backpack experience that withstands everyday wear and tear.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Features Make Zorfin 26l Backpack Ideal For College?

ZORFIN 26L backpack is water-resistant, spacious, and durable. It has ergonomic straps for comfort and multiple compartments for organization. Its 26L capacity fits books, laptops, and travel essentials perfectly.

Is Jansport Cool Backpack Suitable For 15-inch Laptops?

Yes, JanSport Cool Backpack includes a dedicated 15-inch laptop sleeve. It offers ample space and durability. The backpack is designed for daily college use with two main compartments and ergonomic straps.

Does Swissdigital Backpack Include Usb Charging Port?

Yes, Swissdigital backpack features a built-in USB charging port. It supports up to 16-inch notebooks and is perfect for college students needing tech convenience. The design is sleek, modern, and travel-friendly.

How Waterproof Is Maelstrom Laptop Backpack For College Use?

Maelstrom backpack is highly waterproof, protecting electronics and books from rain. It fits laptops up to 17. 3 inches. The anti-theft design and luggage strap add extra security and convenience for students.

What Makes Jansport Superbreak One Backpack Popular Among Students?

JanSport SuperBreak One is lightweight, durable, and simple. It has one large compartment and a front utility pocket with organizer. This classic design fits daily college needs with reliable quality and style.

Conclusion

Choosing the right backpack can make college life easier and more organized. Each backpack on this list offers unique features like water resistance, laptop sleeves, and ergonomic straps. Whether you need extra space, comfort, or a USB charging port, there is a bag for you.

These backpacks balance style and function, helping you carry books and gadgets safely. Remember to consider your daily needs and personal style before picking one. A good backpack supports your studies and travels without causing discomfort. Take your time to find the perfect match that fits your laptop size and carries all essentials.

With the right choice, your college days will be more comfortable and efficient. These backpacks from trusted brands provide durability and convenience for any student. Start your semester prepared and confident with a backpack that suits your lifestyle.