Best Hiking Backpacks for College: Durable, Stylish, and Spacious Picks

Last Updated on December 18, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead

Have you ever struggled to carry everything you need for a long day on campus and a quick hike afterward? It’s frustrating when your backpack feels heavy, uncomfortable, or simply can’t hold all your gear.

Choosing the right hiking backpack can change that. A good backpack makes carrying books, laptops, and hiking essentials much easier. It keeps you organized and comfortable, whether you’re heading to class or hitting the trails. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best hiking backpacks for college students.

These backpacks combine style, durability, and smart features to fit your busy lifestyle. Keep reading to find the perfect backpack that makes your daily adventures smoother and more enjoyable.

The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack

The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack is ideal for professionals, students, and daily commuters who need a reliable and stylish backpack to carry their essentials. If you require a durable bag with a dedicated laptop compartment and ample space for everyday items, this backpack is designed to meet your needs, especially in urban settings where water resistance and organization are key.

Pros:

• Water repellent finish protects belongings from unexpected weather.
• Dedicated 16″ laptop sleeve offers secure and convenient laptop storage.
• Large main compartment accommodates everyday carry items comfortably.
• Lightweight design at just 2.0 pounds for easy portability.
• Durable construction from a trusted brand, The North Face.

Cons:

• Limited color options, available mainly in TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF.
• One size may not suit users needing a smaller or larger backpack.
• Some users might find the 6.5-inch depth restrictive for bulkier items.

The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack features a thoughtfully designed 16-inch laptop sleeve that keeps your device safe and easily accessible, making it perfect for those who carry their laptops daily. Its water repellent finish ensures your belongings remain dry, even during unexpected rain, which adds a layer of protection that every commuter appreciates. With dimensions of 19.5 inches in height and 12 inches in width, it strikes a balance between spaciousness and compactness.

Beyond the laptop compartment, the backpack offers a large main compartment that accommodates notebooks, gadgets, and other essentials with ease. The lightweight build at just 2.0 pounds means it won’t weigh you down during your daily travels. Its sleek black design fits professional environments seamlessly, while the durable manufacturing guarantees long-term use. Overall, this backpack combines practical features with functional benefits, making it a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable and stylish everyday carry solution.

To buy this product, click here.

Maelstrom Hiking Backpack

The Maelstrom Hiking Backpack is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and spacious daypack for hiking, camping, or travel. If you are someone who values durability, waterproof features, and lightweight design in your gear, this 40L waterproof hiking daypack with rain cover is a perfect choice to keep your belongings safe and organized during your adventures.

Pros:

• Spacious 40L capacity to carry all essential hiking and camping gear
• Waterproof material with included rain cover for protection against harsh weather
• Lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long treks without extra burden
• Durable construction from the trusted Maelstrom brand ensures long-lasting use
• Comfortable dimensions (Height: 23.6 inches, Width: 13 inches, Length: 8.8 inches) for balanced load distribution
• Attractive blue color adds style to functionality

Cons:

• Limited color options, only available in blue
• May be slightly large for casual day trips without much gear

The Maelstrom Hiking Backpack features a thoughtfully designed layout that balances ample storage space with a compact form factor. Its waterproof fabric and included rain cover provide excellent protection against sudden downpours, ensuring your belongings stay dry. The lightweight construction reduces fatigue over extended hikes, making it easier to carry heavier loads without discomfort. This backpack’s ergonomic dimensions help distribute weight evenly, enhancing comfort and stability while on the move.

Additionally, the 40L capacity is ideal for multi-day hikes or camping trips, allowing you to pack clothing, food, and essential gear efficiently. The durable materials and quality craftsmanship from Maelstrom guarantee that this backpack will withstand rugged outdoor conditions. Whether you are an avid hiker, camper, or traveler seeking a dependable and stylish daypack, this backpack offers a perfect blend of functionality and durability to support your adventures.

To buy this product, click here.

The North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack

The North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack is ideal for women who need a reliable and stylish backpack for daily commuting, travel, or school. If you are looking for a bag that combines functionality with a sleek design, this backpack is perfect for you, especially if you carry a laptop regularly and want to keep it protected in a water-repellent, durable pack.

Pros:

• Features a dedicated laptop sleeve to safely store and protect your device.
• Constructed with a water-repellent finish to shield contents from light rain and spills.
• Spacious compartment design allows for organized storage of books, gadgets, and essentials.
• Lightweight at just 1.5 pounds, making it comfortable for daily use.
• Stylish steel blue color that suits a variety of outfits and occasions.

Cons:

• Only available in one size, which may not suit users needing more or less capacity.
• Lacks specialized compartments for smaller accessories like pens or chargers.

The North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack stands out with its thoughtful design tailored for women on the go. The dedicated laptop sleeve ensures your electronics remain secure and protected from impacts and the elements, thanks to the water-repellent finish. Its dimensions—18 inches in height, 11 inches wide, and 6.75 inches in length—offer ample space without being bulky, allowing you to carry daily essentials comfortably.

Beyond its functional appeal, the backpack’s lightweight construction at only 1.5 pounds enhances comfort during commutes or travel. The spacious compartment can accommodate books, documents, or gym clothes, making it a versatile choice for students, professionals, and travelers alike. The elegant steel blue color complements a range of styles, ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for practicality.

To buy this product, click here.

The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack

The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack is ideal for commuters, students, and travelers who need a reliable and stylish bag to carry their essentials. If you are looking for a spacious, durable, and water-resistant backpack that can protect your laptop and organize your belongings efficiently, this bag is perfect for you. Its sleek design and practical features make it suitable for everyday use, whether heading to work, school, or on a short trip.

Pros:

• Spacious main compartment for ample storage
• Water-repellent finish to protect belongings from moisture
• Lightweight design at only 2.0 pounds for easy carrying
• Durable construction from a trusted brand, The North Face
• Stylish Mid Grey Dark Heather/TNF Black color combination
• Multiple organizational pockets for better item management

Cons:

• One size may not suit all body types for comfort
• Lacks extensive padding for heavy laptop protection
• Limited external pockets for quick access

The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack features a spacious main compartment designed to accommodate laptops, books, and travel essentials with ease. Its water-repellent finish adds an important layer of protection, making it ideal for unpredictable weather conditions. The backpack’s lightweight yet sturdy construction ensures durability without adding unnecessary bulk, which is especially beneficial for daily commuters. The Mid Grey Dark Heather and TNF Black colors provide a modern, versatile aesthetic that complements any outfit or setting.

Additionally, this backpack offers multiple organizational pockets that help users keep their items neatly arranged, reducing clutter and making it easier to find things on the go. While the single size fits most users comfortably, it may not provide the perfect fit for everyone, and some may find the padding insufficient for extra-heavy laptops. However, overall, the North Face Vault excels in delivering a balance of style, functionality, and reliability for everyday use and travel.

To buy this product, click here.

Taygeer Backpack For Women

The Taygeer Backpack for Women is perfect for college students, travelers, and active individuals who need a versatile and stylish bag. Ideal for those who carry a laptop regularly and require extra compartments for shoes and other essentials, this backpack suits anyone looking for a practical yet fashionable solution for daily commutes, gym visits, or weekend getaways. Its airline-approved size makes it especially convenient for frequent flyers and travelers.

Pros:

• Spacious 40L capacity ideal for travel and daily use
• Dedicated laptop compartment providing secure storage
• Separate shoe pouch keeps footwear isolated and clean
• Airline-approved personal item bag size for hassle-free flying
• Durable Khaki White color with stylish design
• Lightweight, weighing just 1.63 pounds for easy carrying

Cons:

• Limited color options for those seeking more variety
• May be slightly bulky for users who prefer minimalist backpacks

The Taygeer Backpack combines functionality with style, featuring a well-organized layout that includes a padded laptop compartment to protect your device during travel. Its roomy interior and additional shoe pouch provide ample space to separate your belongings, which is especially useful for gym-goers or weekend travelers who need to keep shoes and clothes apart. The bag’s dimensions of 18.5 inches in height, 12.8 inches in width, and 8 inches in length offer a balanced size that fits both daily essentials and travel needs without being cumbersome.

Constructed by the reputable brand Taygee, this backpack is designed with durability and convenience in mind. The lightweight design reduces the strain on your shoulders, making it comfortable for extended wear. Additionally, its airline-approved personal item size means you can easily carry it aboard most flights, eliminating the need to check in your bag. Whether you’re heading to college, the gym, or a weekend hiking trip, this versatile mochila carry-on luggage adapts seamlessly to your lifestyle.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Features Make The North Face Borealis Ideal For College Hikers?

The North Face Borealis offers a water-repellent finish and a 16″ laptop sleeve. It has a large main compartment perfect for everyday carry and hiking essentials.

Is The Maelstrom Hiking Backpack Suitable For All Weather Conditions?

Yes, the Maelstrom Hiking Backpack is waterproof and includes a rain cover. It’s lightweight, making it great for travel and various outdoor activities.

How Does The North Face Women’s Jester Support Daily College Use?

The Jester backpack features a water-repellent finish and spacious compartments. It comfortably fits laptops and daily essentials, ideal for commuting and casual hiking.

Can The North Face Vault Accommodate A Standard Laptop And Books?

Yes, The North Face Vault includes a laptop sleeve and a spacious main compartment. Its water-repellent finish protects items during college and outdoor use.

What Makes The Taygeer Backpack Perfect For College And Travel?

The Taygeer Backpack has a laptop compartment, shoe pouch, and 40L capacity. It’s airline-approved as a personal item, ideal for weekender trips and hiking.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hiking backpack can make college life easier and more organized. The options like The North Face Borealis and Maelstrom offer durability and comfort for daily use. Backpacks with laptop compartments and water-repellent finishes keep your gear safe in all weather.

Spacious compartments help carry books, gadgets, and hiking essentials without hassle. Lightweight designs reduce strain on your back during long walks or hikes. Some backpacks even come with rain covers and shoe pouches for added convenience. Whether you need a reliable everyday bag or a multi-use hiking pack, these choices fit various needs.

Pick one that matches your style and activity level. A good backpack supports both your studies and outdoor adventures. Start your college journey prepared and comfortable with the best hiking backpacks available.