Best Backpack for High and Middle School Boys in 2023

Choosing a backpack for boys is vastly different than purchasing one for girls or kids. As boys enter middle school, their tastes change. No longer are they interested in the usual Spiderman or Avengers backpacks. No longer do they wish for a lunch bag along with their regular school bag. Now, the best backpack for such high and middle school boys becomes those which are classic, sturdy, and good-looking.

Men have the need to ‘make an entrance as they enter school. At ages when in high and middle school, using a sports car for this purpose may be a bit too impractical, and not allowed too (at such an age!). Thus, the easiest and most classy way to enter and make heads turn is with the ‘right’ backpack for school.

From purchasing the best heavy-duty backpack for middle school to the coolest backpack for high school, the options are unlimited for boys. However, we have shortlisted a large collection to give you the best backpack for high and middle school boys. Choose one, choose all – you shall not regret it.

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Top 15 Backpack for Middle & High and Middle School Boys

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Best Backpack for Middle & High and Middle School Boys

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1. The Popular High School Backpack: Nike Elite Pro Backpack

As soon as we hear the term ‘Best backpack for high and middle school boys’, Nike immediately comes to mind. As you go to school, you will see that the popular and cool squad of high school usually dons a classic Nike. This Nike backpack, albeit a classic, is a bit different from the usual one thus there is a greater possibility for you to stand out in the crowd.

In classic hues of black and metallic gold, this backpack has one main compartment with double zippers. Such zippers have the advantage that a lock can be passed through them – thereby making the backpack anti-theft.

Apart from the main compartment which is spacious enough to turn this into the best book bag, there are multiple other pockets too. From zippered front to side, and open-side pockets – the bag offers organization.

A distinctive quality of the backpack is the ventilated shoe compartment. Ever heard of a backpack having a shoe compartment?

This one does! That too, for up to a shoe size 15. This makes this one of the best backpacks for sports gear.

Whether you have to fit your swimming, football, or basketball gear – you can easily do so, courtesy of this Nike creation. The backpack also has a hook at the back so it can be hung to the stands, or in your lockers with ease.

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2. Under Armor Scrimmage Backpack – Most Durable Backpack for High School

If you were in search of the best Under Armor backpack for high school, your search ends here. Ranking high in terms of durability and spaciousness, the backpack has 2 large compartments to tend to your school needs.

Have books to keep? Binders too? Even a laptop? The backpack has enough space for everyone.

Along with a special laptop compartment, the two large compartments are secured with a double zipper – ensuring your bag does not fly open for any reason.

There is a front pocket to keep your stash of stationery, earphones, wallet, etc. Being at the front makes it widely accessible and easy to grab. The backpack also has 2 elastic mesh side pockets.

Their elastic ability means they are able to stretch enough to hold any sized bottle you may have. Are you used to carrying around a coffee thermos? Don’t worry because this bag is able to hold all, and more.

Another element making this the most durable backpack for high school is its water-repelling ability. While you may just be standing in line at the cafeteria, a friend may feel like having some fun and through water on you.

Do you fear for your backpack? Certainly not. The backpack can withstand light showers without getting its contents wet, so a small water fight will pass by it like a breeze.

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3. Champion Men’s Manuscript Backpack; Cool Backpack for High School Guys

What is more manly and cool than a backpack in camouflage shade which says ‘Champion’ on the front? Probably nothing else. This Champion creation should be the go-to bag for high school guys in search of a cool backpack.

Although it may not appear as spacious, you will find that the one large compartment of the backpack is able to hold most things you want. From smaller items like stationery boxes to larger ones like books and binders – all such items can it easily. There is also a laptop pocket, although it is not heavily padded.

There is a pocket at the front, best to store items of frequent usage. From body sprays to your favorite Axe perfume, all can fit easily and be available for retrieval in the blink of an eye (or the unzipping of a zip). 

When in search of the best backpack for high and middle school boys that is cool as well as stylish – purchase the Champion Men’s Manuscript backpack.

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4. Adidas Stadium II Backpack – The Best Backpack for High School Freshmen

As you begin high school, there is the desire to be a part of the ‘cool’ group i.e. the Jocks. If you have a knack for soccer and basketball, the process becomes easier when you have the best backpack for high school freshman on your back.

This innovative backpack is a class apart. In a bright power red, it demands to be seen and appreciated. What sets it apart from others? The mesh pocket is in the front.

Hidden by way of a zipper, it unzips to a mesh bag that can be worn outwards, large enough to hold a football, so you don’t have to get your hands dirty as you make your way to practice.

In terms of spaciousness, the backpack has two large zippered compartments secured with double zippers. Thus, you can rest assured that books, files, binders, even a set of clothes – everything will fit into this backpack.

There are 2 elastic mesh side pockets, deeper than the ones usually found thus making them more useful. From umbrellas to tennis rackets to thermos and the usual water bottle, each item can fit easily in these side pockets.

To top it all, the backpack offers a lifetime guarantee! So, you do not need to worry about the purchase of a new backpack every now and then. It is the best backpack for high school freshmen because it guarantees it will last until the end of college too.

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5. Egoelife Satchel Bag – The Best Messenger Bag for Middle School

Just because you’re going to school, doesn’t mean you have to don the usual backpack. You can bring your own rendition of the backpacking culture by wearing the best messenger bag for middle school; the Egoelife satchel bag.

With cotton lining, this bag is easy to open and shut. With its flap-over ability, it is secured by 2 Velcro straps on each side. This means a simple pull can result in an easy opening of the bag.

Under, you will find one main zippered compartment, along with 2 open pockets in the front. These pockets are spacious enough to hold smaller-sized notebooks or even iPads and tablets. While the zippered main compartment has a separate laptop compartment for laptops up to 14 inches.

Comfortable to wear, the bag’s straps do not dig into your shoulder. Instead, the shoulder straps are adjustable as well as removable – making it easier to decide how you wish to wear your messenger bag for middle school.

Another plus point: the backpack has a vertical front pocket – best for your cellphones to keep safe and sound while freeing your hands too.

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6. Samsonite Flap-Over Bag – Best Messenger Bag for High School Seniors

If you are a senior in high school or college, you may have tons of presentations to deliver and seminars to attend.

Conferences travel for competitions, and acting as a speaker at events is included in the usual course of a senior. Thus, Samsonite delivers a professional-looking briefcase-less-messenger bag for high school seniors.

Made with natural cowhide with minimal treatment, the bag has an innovative outlook. Though it has metal straps and buckles on top, it is secured by metal clasps for ease of opening and closing.

As you lift the flap, you will be greeted by an organizer to stack your pens, cards, and other stationery in, neatly. There is a rear compartment on the other end to hold papers, documents, and other assignments you may have.

There is a special compartment to place your laptop in, safe and sound – because presentations and laptops go hand-in-hand when in high school, right?

While this men’s messenger back has a removable and adjustable single shoulder strap, it does not dig into your shoulders like many other alternatives.

Instead, it has a shoulder pad for greater comfort, as well as the ease of removing the strap if you feel to appear more professional for your conference/competition and hold the bag by the top handle like a briefcase.

Wear it any way you like, and this is bound to become a great professional backpack for boys in high school.

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7. The Jansport Backpack: Large Backpack for High School

One of the most popular names in the backpack industry, a Jansport backpack guarantees quality and durability with its iconic designed products.

This backpack in a gorgeous coastal blue shines among all usual designs because of its shade. For boys who are looking for a large backpack for high school with pops of color – their search ends with this Jansport backpack.

With such a backpack, you can never run out of pockets. From two large compartments to place your books and papers in, there is a 15-inch laptop sleeve, as well as 3 front pockets for your use. Whether you have to carry binders, adaptors, a laptop, your sweatshirt, or in short – anything to school – you can do so easily with this backpack.

However, there is one less pocket i.e. only a single side pocket. Thus, if you are used to carrying two water bottles, or perhaps a water bottle and a protein shake, you might have to either compromise on one or fit it inside.

If you are wondering about the comfort of the backpack, rest assured because this is one of the most comfortable backpacks for men.

With s-curve ergonomic straps and a padded back panel, it ensures that the wearer is never tired and feels the load of a backpack on his back. If you still wish to wear it another way, there is a web haul handle too.

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8. Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Bag – Best Backpack for School

A backpack which exclaims to be the best backpack for school with its long heritage from 1960, this iconic Kanken bag is convenient, easy to carry, and a great laptop bag.

The backpack has one main compartment secured by a dual zipper. However, do not think for a minute that this bag lacks space because it has room for about 20L. While the padded laptop compartment at the back is large enough to store a 17-inch laptop, the main compartment is completely empty and free to allow the storage of a high number of books.

While the backpack only has a single side pocket which may appear like a downside, it makes up for this with its wonderful qualities: dirt-resistant, water-resistant, and easy to wipe.

Still not convinced that this is the best backpack for school? It has ergonomic X-straps too, which are comfortable to wear. While the top handle has a dual top snap for easy carriage by hand.

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9. Cheapest Backpack for School: The Realdo Student Laptop Daypack

For those looking for an inexpensive yet wholesome backpack, this Realdo backpack tops the list by being the best cheapest backpack for middle school.

Although not very spacious, the backpack is highly convenient in all manners. Made with canvas, it has double zipper closure for its large compartment. This means not only can you store your books and other items in the backpack, but you can also ensure that they are safe.

How so? Simply purchase a metal lock and slide it within the two holes of the zippers by placing them together and locking it – this cheap backpack will also turn into an anti-theft backpack easily.

The backpack also has a front pocket to place items of frequent usage. From your mobile phone to protein bars, all can fit with ease.

The attractiveness of the backpack lies in its aesthetic, not heavy on the eyes pastel hue of Mint Green. The shade is on the minimalist side and is great for those who want to appear subtle yet not completely dull. If however, you wish for another color, there are 7 more to choose from

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10. The Kaukko Travel Rucksack – Cool Backpack for High School Boys

For those tired of the usual backpacks, Kaukko brings its own twist to the usual backpack with a rucksack-style backpack. Armed with leather belts, this creation in Nylon grey makes for the coolest backpack for high school boys.

With a capacity of up to 22L, the backpack has one large compartment with a laptop compartment with storage for up to a 15-inch laptop.

The main compartment has enough space for items of 18-inch height – this means binders, journals, files, and books, everything fits easily in the backpack.

The specialty of this pocket is however not the compartment, but its ease of closure. Equipped with a drawstring for closure, the backpack saves time when you need to extract something from it.

Simply tighten or loosen the drawstring if you want something – there is no need to think of failing Velcro straps or faulty zippers, a drawstring is an answer to your woes.

The top flap as well as the front pocket have another unique way of closure – magnetic buckle clasps. While the front pocket again offers greater space in an already spacious backpack.

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Read Related Article: Best Backpack for Medical & Nursing School

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11. Best Laptop Bag for High School: The Solo New York Laptop Backpack

For the tech-geeks, Solo New York enters with its own take on the best laptop backpack for boys in high school. This backpack not only has a full laptop compartment apt for a laptop up to 17.3 inches but also has a specially designated tablet/iPad pocket. So, in case you wish to carry one or both, you easily do so.

The amount of space in the backpack is unimaginable. From zippered side pockets to 2 front pockets, and cavernous 2 main pockets, there is space for almost anything and everything you may wish to keep in the backpack.

However, do not think that if you fill the backpack to the brim you will feel a load on your shoulders. The padded backpack straps offer comfort and immense support. This, coupled with the breathable back makes it easier to wear the backpack.

 Another fun fact: Solo New York offers 5 years guarantee for the backpack. Thus, even if something goes wrong, you can easily ask for a fix. What more does one want in the best men’s laptop backpack?

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12. Nike Hayward 2.0 Backpack – Most Popular Middle and High School Backpacks

A classic Nike backpack, the Hayward 2.0 is one of the most popular backpacks for middle and high school. The bag gives off vibes of a sportsmen, as well as the cool guy in college. Thus, if you tick any of these boxes – this backpack is certainly the one for you.

The backpack has 2 large zippered pockets. While the main large pocket has a dual zipper, it also has a laptop sleeve to ensure your laptop remains safe and sound. Couple these large pockets with the 2 side pockets, and you get the backpack which tends to your capacity needs.

The plus point of this Nike backpack is even though it’s a classic backpack, it is completely unisex, along with being durable. So an investment in such a backpack can never be lost. After you pass through high school or college, you can easily give it to your younger sibling to use. Two birds with one stone? Certainly.

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13. Lenovo Laptop Backpack – Heavy Duty Backpack for High School

Ever imagined a heavy-duty backpack for high school with a slim and smart style? You do not need to imagine this anymore because Lenovo has introduced such a backpack for your use.

First things first, the tech aspect of the backpack. The backpack has a padded compartment to hold a laptop up to 15.6 inches. In addition to this, there are other organizer pockets for mobile phones, business cards, etc.

Next, the comfortable fit. Along with padded shoulder straps, the backpack rises above others with its quilted back panel. Such a panel ensures when wearing the backpack, your back does not feel stressed not overexerted.

With the main compartment with space for a few notebooks along with the laptop, as well as a front pocket, the backpack makes for a great slim and smart backpack for high school boys. Want to make heads turn with a sleek designed backpack? This is the way to go.

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14. Kenneth Cole Reaction Leather Flap-over Backpack – Stylish Backpack for High School

Fond of Kenneth Cole Reaction backpacks? Check this one out in a gorgeous Cognac hue. If you want to make an entrance with the most stylish backpack for high school, this is certainly one that ranks high on the list.

The backpack has a unique flap-over outlook. With an accessory vertical zipper panel on the side, as you open the flap, you will find another zippered pocket beneath. Apt to store your mobile phones or other precious items, the pocket is easy to access, while also being hidden from plain sight by the above flap.

As you open the flap, the main compartment is another glorious aspect of the bag. With a separate padded compartment for your laptop as well as a tablet, there is also additional space for your notebooks.

However, the specialty of the backpack is its unique feature of being anti-RFID. Such technology means as you place your credit cards, passports, or any other item of precious personal information – you can remain assured that your information will be protected because the anti-RFID ability ensures no hacking ability catches the signals of your precious cards/passports.

Made with Columbian leather, the backpack is protective and stylish – the best backpack for those with a minimalist yet classic fashion sense.

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15. Herschel Dawson Backpack: Best Men’s High School Backpack    

Another famous name in the world of backpacks, this Herschel backpack stuns in its black/tan shade. Subtle yet stylish, it is certainly one of the coolest backpacks in the market. However, its coolness certainly isn’t the only special feature this backpack has to become the best men’s high school backpack.

The backpack has stylish leather belts in the front, however, don’t think you will have to buckle or unbuckle a belt to open the bag. Instead, the main flap of the backpack has magnetic closure properties. As you open the flap, the inner pocket is secured shut by a drawstring – making it easy to open and shut the bag in a jiffy.

To further enhance the features of the backpack, there are 2 small pockets in the front. Keep your wallet in one and phone in the other, or a pack of chewing gums in one and another snack in the other. In any case, the backpack is very handy as well as fashionable to be a great school backpack.

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