Getting into the best backpack for medical school is as tough as it gets. Pair the struggles of med school with the heavy workload, and you get a usually exhausted med student.
Tired of lugging around books and papers and the ever-heavy laptops, every medical and nursing student yearns for something to make their worries less.
This savior enters in the form of some of the best backpacks for medical school. These backpacks are not only able to hold their weight for them but also distribute it comfortably between their shoulders – to take a load off their back (pun intended).
If you’re thinking “Now I have to look for a good backpack for medical school too!”, rest assured that this is not the case. To make your work easier, we have compiled a list of some of the best nursing school backpacks.
These are strong, durable, spacious, as well as fashionable – for those who wouldn’t compromise on style even regardless of being in medical school.
Now you can spend more time focusing on your studies, than having to worry about the best medical school backpack to purchase. Simply choose one of the backpacks from the list below, and your journey of being a doctor will feel as easier as ever.
Recommendation For You: best backpack for law school.
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Top 15 Backpack for Medical & Nursing School:
15 Best Backpack for Medical & Nursing School:
1. The North Face Jester’s Backpack
THE NORTH FACE Women’s
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: The North Face
- Department: Boys
- Weight: 10 Ounces
A medical student searches for spaciousness along with quality and durability, and the North Face Jester’s backpack provides just that by being one of the most durable backpacks for medical school.
A medical student searches for spaciousness along with quality and durability, and the North Face Jester’s backpack provides just that by being one of the most durable backpacks for medical school.
The backpack has 2 main compartments. However, I do not think that means it has less space. These two compartments, secured by a double zipper (which can be locked with a lock for anti-theft purposes), are massive in size.
There is a padded laptop sleeve that fits a laptop up to 15 inches. This is of great help since most medical students need to carry laptops with them. There is an additional padded sleeve for tablet/iPad too, for the ones who prefer it over the laptop or would like to carry both together.
Each of the compartments has enough space to carry books, binders, papers, and even some clothes (because doctors have night shifts). As a plus, it has not one but two side pockets. Thus, making it easier to carry a bottle of water as well as a caffeinated drink to get you through residency hours.
The backpack also respects the weight medical students have to carry and thus provides the benefit of ergonomic ‘s’ straps. Sounds confusing?
These are simply backpack straps that distribute the weight evenly between your shoulders and make you feel less weighed down as you carry your medical bag around. However, given the size of the backpack, it makes a better fit for slender shoulders as compared to broader ones.
2. The Unisex Adidas Backpack for Med School
adidas Striker 2 Backpack
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: adidas
- Weight: 1.08 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 11 x 17 x 13 inches
If you were in search of a multi-compartment and pocketed backpack for medical school, the Unisex Adidas Backpack certainly makes the cut. With more pockets than you could ever desire, the backpack shines with elements of durability and value for money.
If you were in search of a multi-compartment and pocketed backpack for medical school, the Unisex Adidas Backpack certainly makes the cut.
With more pockets than you could ever desire, the backpack shines with elements of durability and value for money. Of course, being an Adidas product, you would not assume anything less.
The backpack has 2 large compartments and 2 smaller ones. The largest compartment at the rear end of the backpack has a laptop sleeve at the back. Though a padded one with a Velcro strap would perhaps have been offered more protection, this works nonetheless.
This pocket is large enough for your medical supplies and reading material alike. There is another large compartment which though slightly smaller than the one at the rear end, still has a big capacity. Want to store an extra sweatshirt? Throw it in there.
The 2 pockets at the front are essential for items of frequent use. To easily obtain your earphones, phone charger, or wallet, there isn’t a need to go rummaging through the entire backpack. Simply open the front pocket and voila! – you get what you need.
There are 2 elastic mesh side pockets too, suitable for holding the standard-sized water bottle, and stretchable enough to have a thermos.
Wondering what nursing school bookbag to get? This one is what you need, for as many books as your heart desires.
3. Puma Contender Backpack
PUMA EVERCAT CONTENDER BACKPACK
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: PUMA
- Units: 1 Count
- Weight: 1.16 pounds
A famous name in the world of backpacks, this Puma creation is one of the best backpacks for pharmacy school. Upholding a minimalist design with the Puma emblem in gold at the front, this backpack attracts because of its simple yet stylish design in a classic black hue.
A famous name in the world of backpacks, this Puma creation is one of the best backpacks for pharmacy school. Upholding a minimalist design with the Puma emblem in gold at the front, this backpack attracts because of its simple yet stylish design in a classic black hue.
This backpack has 2 smaller pockets on the exterior and one main compartment. While the main compartment has a laptop sleeve to tend to your technological needs, the exterior pockets are great for items you have to retrieve at a moment’s notice.
Phone dying? Zip open the front or top small pocket and get your charger on the go. There is no need to stop, put your bag down, and go through all contents of the bag to simply find the rather small item you are looking for. The small pockets take care of this.
The backpack has 2 elastic mesh pockets on the side as well. However, what sets this medical student backpack apart from others is the 100% polyester fabric and lining, as well as padded contour straps that make the bag immensely comfortable to wear.
4. Under Armour Recruit Backpack
Under Armour Adult Recruit Backpack 2.0
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Under Armour Bags
- Department: Unisex-adult
- Weight: 1.44 Pounds
Another famous brand, another great backpack for medical students; the Under Armour Recruit backpack is spacious, multi-pocketed, as well as water-resistant. Imagine, you are running to campus, late for class, and your coffee spills on the backpack.
Another famous brand, another great backpack for medical students; the Under Armour Recruit backpack is spacious, multi-pocketed, as well as water-resistant. Imagine, you are running to campus, late for class, and your coffee spills on the backpack.
There is no need to frown because the backpack is made of water-resistant materials. Continue your way to class without a care, and rest assured that the contents inside the backpack haven’t gotten wet.
The backpack has 2 large compartments for storage of books, assignments, and laptops (up to 15 inches) alike. However, binders may not fit comfortably. The backpack has a small front pocket, as well as 2 side pockets for easy accessibility of items.
The backpack has an abrasion-resistant bottom panel which makes it one of the best bags for medical rotation. How so?
When on medical rotation, you are traveling from one department to the next, having to place the backpack wherever there is space on the ground. You won’t always find smooth, clean floors, and thus instead of harming the underside of the backpack, the abrasion-free bottom panel ensures your backpack remains scratch-free.
It is also very comfortable to don the backpack. The straps are adjustable, to be loosened or tightened as per your needs. However, if your shoulders are tired, the bag has another option too; hold it by the top handle. Thus, making it one of the best 2-in-1 backpacks for medical school.
5. Solo New York – Rolling Laptop Bag
Solo Carnegie Rolling Laptop Bag
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Solo
- Item model: B100-4
- Weight: 1.6 pounds
If you are studying for your post-graduate programs or pursuing further degrees in medicine, wearing a backpack might not be in line with the required decorum of medical school and your level of experience.
If you are studying for your post-graduate programs or pursuing further degrees in medicine, wearing a backpack might not be in line with the required decorum of medical school and your level of experience. Here, wearing a briefcase becomes a good option.
However, a briefcase able to carry the weight of medical school contents sounds impossible to find. But it isn’t – the rolling laptop bag for doctors, courtesy of Solo New York proves this. The bag has a slim design yet ample space.
The compartment at the rear end has a separator in the middle; keep your research papers on one side and books of medicine on the other. For the laptop, there is another compartment.
This too is protected by a double zipper and has a padded laptop sleeve (15.6 inches) with a strap. Can you think of any more protection for your laptop? I simply can’t.
There is a front organizer compartment also, with separate open pockets apt for pens, cards, etc. This makes it a great bag for those who like their things organized always.
This proves one of the best work bags for physician assistants also due to its travel-friendly qualities. It has smooth wheels and telescopic handles, which replace having to hold the weight to pull it around – making it easier to travel with the bag.
The bag is also able to fit in most overhead cabins of airlines, thus making it a great carry-on for your next medical conference trip.
Want to hold it like a briefcase? Hold it by the padded top handle. Want to put it to the ground? Get out the handle and simply pull.
6. Jansport Wheeled Backpack in Viking Red
JanSport Driver 8 Core Series
Specifications:
- Brand: JanSport
- Color: Red
- Size: One Size
For the best 2-in-1 backpack for medical school, what better choice of backpack could there be than one by the famed Jansport? This gorgeous extra-large sized backpack is just what you need to stand out in medical school.
For the best 2-in-1 backpack for medical school, what better choice of backpack could there be than one by the famed Jansport? This gorgeous extra-large sized backpack is just what you need to stand out in medical school.
While most other students will have backpacks in the usual colors of black and blue – stand out with this deep Viking red. This spacious backpack has 2 main compartments.
One of these includes a padded laptop pocket, fit for laptops having up to a 15.1-inch screen. Apart from the laptop, you can easily store your books, binders, as well as other things of need in the backpack.
There are 2 front pockets. 1 organizer pocket especially for your stationery, cards, and other small items. While the other is a stash pocket for items of quick retrieval. Thus, the backpack is spacious enough for a medical school student with several pockets.
However, there is only a single side pocket. Thus, if you are used to carrying an umbrella or extra water bottle with you, you might have to try and fit it inside the backpack or make do without it.
Furthermore, what makes this bag immensely special is the wheels below. The bag is not like any other trolley bag. This one by Jansport has skid rails added for the protection of the bag.
This means, if you are in a hurry, you can even climb the stairs with the wheeled bag in tow, without having to pick it up and carry it upstairs to prevent any harm to the bag’s corners.
Wish it wasn’t a rolling backpack for medical students. There are hidden back straps at the back of the bag. Get them out, and wear the backpack on your shoulders as you make your way to school.
7. High Sierra Powerglide Wheeled Laptop Backpack
High Sierra Powerglide Wheeled Backpack
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: High Sierra
- Item model: 53992-1050
- Weight: 6 pounds
The High Sierra wheeled laptop backpack is one of the best rolling backpacks for medical students. Upholding ideas of high capacity, and durability, as well as the feeling of lugging around a ‘brand name’, it is a top contender amongst the best work bookbags for doctors.
The High Sierra wheeled laptop backpack is one of the best rolling backpacks for medical students. Upholding ideas of high capacity, and durability, as well as the feeling of lugging around a ‘brand name’, it is a top contender amongst the best work bookbags for doctors.
The spaciousness of the backpack is the first impression aspect. There are 2 large compartments. If you have a laptop that needs to be stored within the backpack, it can easily fit the padded laptop compartment (17 inches) in the rear end pocket.
On the other hand, you can pair it up with a few binders and books and leave your assignments and papers in the large compartment in front.
The backpack has 2 pockets on the front; while one of them is an organizer compartment with key fobs, pen cases, and space for a notebook (etc.), the other pocket is rather odd as it is upside down. This renders it mostly unusable. There are 2 zippered side pockets too.
The specialty of the bag remains the highly convenient wheels. While the wheels are smooth, the underside of the backpack remains protected by ‘little feet’ that ensure the bag remains dirt-free and doesn’t touch the ground directly.
Hurrying up the stairs, or don’t want to pull the wheeled backpack around anymore? You can push the handles into its hideaway pocket and zip it shut. Next, you can simply extract the backpack straps from the back-zipper panel, wear the bag over your shoulders, and make your way to campus.
8. Targus Compact Rolling Backpack
Targus 16 Inch Compact Rolling Backpack
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Targus
- Item model: TSB750US
- Weight: 4 pounds
Another wonderful rolling backpack for medical students is the backpack by Targus. It is a great backpack for those who mostly work on their laptop and thus are mostly required to carry their laptop and a few other things to campus.
Another wonderful rolling backpack for medical students is the backpack by Targus. It is a great backpack for those who mostly work on their laptop and thus are mostly required to carry their laptop and a few other things to campus.
The backpack has one large pocket secured by a double zipper. This ensures that the bag does not fly open even as you rush to class. To cater to your technological needs, the backpack has a laptop compartment storing up to 16-inch screen laptops.
To add to this organized vibe, there is an organized zipper compartment on the exterior of the backpack, which not only has space for your stationery and chargers alike but also has a protective sleeve for your tablet.
The backpack has 2 side pockets, however, unlike most backpacks we see, these 2 pockets are different from one another. While one is zippered shut and able to store small items of recurrent use, the other side pocket is of elastic mesh – apt for keeping bottles, thermos, umbrellas, etc.
Though, there might not be much need for an umbrella since the backpack has water-resistant properties. To come the most important quality – is the rolling ability of the backpack.
The backpack has a push telescopic handle, while the bottom of the backpack has ‘feet’ to prevent any harm to the bag. However, while the bag has back straps, they do not have hideaway pockets but only Velcro attachments, which can wear out.
9. Messenger Bag for Medical Students by VX Vonxury
Messenger Bag for Men and Women
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: VX VONXURY
- Color: Grey-14 Inch
- Weight: 1.98 pounds
Not only are such bags the right size, but they can also be worn in different ways to distribute weight, without having to go for the additional cost of top-handle or wheeled backpacks i.e. by wearing them as a cross-body.
Many medical students prefer the convenience of the single-shoulder bag, as compared to the usual backpack. Not only are such bags the right size, but they can also be worn in different ways to distribute weight, without having to go for the additional cost of top-handle or wheeled backpacks i.e. by wearing them as a cross-body.
The beauty of this messenger bag is, although it appears small, it really isn’t in reality. With magnetic button closure, as you flip over the flap of the bag, there are 2 open pockets and a zipper compartment underneath.
While the 2 pockets are easily large enough to store smaller versions of notebooks and chargers (etc.), it is the main compartment that steals the thunder.
As you zip open the compartment, there is a special shock-proof, and padded section for a laptop up to 14 inches – meaning the epitome of safety for your technical device. There is space for books, papers, and more, along with 2 more open pockets and a zippered pocket in the interior.
The bag is not done surprising you just yet. There is another zipper pocket at its back – with the capacity to store a tablet or iPad.
While the front flap sports a uniquely designed pocket primarily for your cell phone storage. So that you can get your phone off your hands, and retrieve it immediately without having to search through the entire bag.
Proving as one of the best bags for doctors, perhaps a small shortcoming is the lack of side pockets and top handles.
10. Ecosusi Convertible Backpack for Women
ECOSUSI Backpack for Women
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: ECOSUSI
- Color: 2-brown-l
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
You might have heard of a 2-in-1 laptop bag for medical school. However, Ecosusi ups the game by bringing a 3-in-1 laptop bag for medical school. Confused how? This bag can be worn as a backpack.
You might have heard of a 2-in-1 laptop bag for medical school. However, Ecosusi ups the game by bringing a 3-in-1 laptop bag for medical school. Confused how? This bag can be worn as a backpack. Then, its back straps can be removed to a single-shoulder strap.
Wear it on one shoulder, or drape it across your body like a fashionable cross-body bag. If you are on your way to a medical conference, lose the straps and hold it by its innovative metal and leather top handle like a briefcase. Win-win-win? Truly.
Made with vegan leather and depictive of high-quality brassware, this creation in a beautiful brown shade steals hearts even as you lift off the intricate flap.
You are immediately greeted by a zipper compartment and an open pocket for use. The zipper compartment unveils space for your books and laptops, as well as stationery open pockets and another zipped pocket.
The laptop section is also out of the ordinary. It isn’t a mere sleeve, but is also equipped with a Velcro strap to ensure the laptop does not budge regardless of whether you take the subway to campus, run, or cycle your way – the laptop remains secure.
This Ecosusi backpack is the best backpack for nursing students who are not willing to compromise on style, fashion, convenience, and quality as they enter medical school.
11. Himawari Travel School Backpack
himawari Travel School Backpack
Specifications:
- Department: Womens
- Capacity Total: 18 Liters
- Weight: 1.4 pounds
Available in a total of 20 different colors, this Himawari book bag is called a doctor’s work bag – all the more reason to purchase it as a backpack for medical school.
Available in a total of 20 different colors, this Himawari book bag is called a doctor’s work bag – all the more reason to purchase it as a backpack for medical school. However, instead of choosing bright shades, opt for lighter, solid-colored hues to maintain the decorum of the medical field.
This backpack has a unique design as it appears like an elongated handbag, but it really is a backpack nonetheless.
Displaying a wide-open top as soon as you unzip the top compartment, you will be greeted by ample space for a laptop (up to 15.6 inches), as well as enough space for your books and papers. There are also 2 open pockets in the interior to help in organizing the backpack.
The exterior of the backpack exhibits three pockets: one front pocket as an immediate stash pocket for smaller items, and 2 pockets on the side to keep your thermos/bottle, etc.
A distinctive quality of the backpack is the USB charging port. This makes it easier to charge your phone even when on the go. Simply place your power bank in the bag, and connect the cord with your phone on the outside via the port, and voila! – your phone will begin to charge.
To top it off, the backpack is lightweight and waterproof, thus making it the best bag for medical rotation. While the rotation might tire you out, wearing this backpack never would.
12. Kenneth Cole Reaction – Quilted Laptop Backpack
Kenneth Cole Reaction Women’s
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Kenneth Cole Reaction
- Department: Womens
- Weight: 2 pounds
What is better than a laptop backpack in black? A laptop backpack in a combination of black and gold. This Kenneth Cole Reaction backpack depicts how fashion and work can go hand-in-hand – thus proving to be one of the best medical student backpacks.
What is better than a laptop backpack in black? A laptop backpack in a combination of black and gold. This Kenneth Cole Reaction backpack depicts how fashion and work can go hand-in-hand – thus proving to be one of the best medical student backpacks.
Made with 100% polyester, this sleek and minimalist backpack has 2 main compartments. The pocket on the back of the bag is designated for keeping a laptop up to 15 inches.
While the front pocket includes an open pocket with a Velcro strap for tablet/iPad. You can also easily store your books and notebooks and/or binder in the bag.
However, space and pockets are not what make this backpack special. Instead, it is the blue and white-striped interior that steals the thunder. Due to being of a lighter shade, they allow easy visual of the contents of the backpack and make item retrieval less time-consuming.
There are 2 pockets on the front, with the option of the double-zippered front pocket to be locked by a personal lock you may have to lie idle at home. Simply pass it through the loops of the zippers, and lock your pocket.
This makes this backpack not only a good work bag for medical professionals but also a great one to use for travel. Plus, paired with the luggage strap behind, it eases hands-free travel too.
13. Desanissy Doctor Style Backpack
KROSER Laptop Backpack 15.6 Inch
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: KROSER
- Department: Womens
- Weight: 10.4 ounces
When a backpack has the term ‘doctor-style backpack’ in its name, you can safely presume it makes for a good work bag for doctors and medical students alike. This backpack shines among others due to its professional combination of colors, and a stylish design.
When a backpack has the term ‘doctor-style backpack’ in its name, you can safely presume it makes for a good work bag for doctors and medical students alike. This backpack shines among others due to its professional combination of colors, and stylish design.
The backpack has one main compartment sealed by a zipper. As you unzip, you will find a laptop padded section (15.6 inches), and some other space to keep your books, stationery, as well as makeup pouch, etc.
You will also see an outlet for a cord. This is the USB charging port, which allows charging your mobile phone without looking for a charging switch.
There are many pockets on the bag’s exterior. Apart from 2 side pockets, there are 2 pockets on the front too. However, since one of them is a bit towards the inside, it is rather hidden from sight.
This makes it the best place to store any personal and private possessions – especially if you have to place your backpack away when you begin your hospital rounds.
Need any more reasons to purchase the backpack? It is lightweight, waterproof, and comfortable to wear owing to its thick net-padded shoulder straps.
14. Fashionable Backpack for Nursing School Students by Silinana
Nurse Bag for Work
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Fasrom
- Item model: CAFR00902
- Weight: 1.2 Pounds
Backpacks with scripts have their own charm. Whether you are purchasing a backpack for yourselves, or for a loved one just about to join the field of medicine, this backpack is bound to be a heartwarming gift.
Backpacks with scripts have their own charm. Whether you are purchasing a backpack for yourselves, or for a loved one just about to join the field of medicine, this backpack is bound to be a heartwarming gift.
The backpack, seemingly small, will surprise you with its large capacity. The bag has 3 pockets: one in the front, one at the back, and one in the main compartment.
The pocket at the back is a wonderful place to store wallets and other essentials as it hides away from sight as soon as you wear the backpack on your back. The front pocket, on the other hand, is great for chargers, earphones, sunglasses, etc.
The main compartment of the backpack is very spacious. Secured by a double zipper, it has a laptop compartment (17 inches) able to hold most laptops, as well as more ample space to store books, binders, and perhaps even throw in your lab coat.
Also equipped with 2 side pockets, perhaps the only downside is the lack of an organizer compartment.
15. JANSPORT Cool Student Backpack
JanSport Backpack with 15-inch
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: JanSport
- Country of Origin: Vietnam
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
When no other backpack for medical school makes sense, the usual Jansport backpack enters as a savior. This spacious backpack with 2 large compartments, 3 smaller pockets, and single side pocket makes for a good nursing school bookbag.
When no other backpack for medical school makes sense, the usual Jansport backpack enters as a savior. This spacious backpack with 2 large compartments, 3 smaller pockets, and a single side pocket makes for a good nursing school bookbag, with the ability to carry more weight and books than you could possibly want.
The backpack is in the iconic Jansport backpack style. This means a simple yet classic backpack. It hosts a 15-inch laptop sleeve in one of the larger compartments.
While also leaving enough space to accommodate your binders, books, and other things in this pocket and the other large compartment.
The 3 front pockets of the backpack are also very useful for the smallest of things. A stethoscope, a phone charger, and stationery to keep in the front organizer pocket.
However, the backpack only has one side pocket. So, if you need two side pockets and can absolutely not make do without them, this medical student backpack probably isn’t your cup of tea.
Frequently Asked Questions:
A medical school is very different from other types of colleges and schools. However, the level of studies and hard work is the same, if not more. Thus, there is the need to carry books, binders, a laptop most often, and so forth. For this, you need a strong and sturdy backpack or a rolling bag for medical school.
Like all other students, people attending medical school keep textbooks, notebooks, papers, and a laptop in their backpacks. However, being a medical student, you might find a stethoscope, lab coat, scrubs, and/or an extra pair of comfortable clothes in the backpack too.
While there are many manufacturers, famous and otherwise, which make backpacks fit for usage by medical students, the notable ones include High Sierra, Jansport, North Face, etc. However, there are many unbranded/local brands of medical school backpacks that might prove just as good too.
Related Article: Best Backpacks for Grad School
Final Verdict:
When attending a medical school, the time period after which you will graduate with a degree is probably longer than other educational programs. Thus, the backpack that you choose should be such which is sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of the years.
Thus, the first quality you must look for in the best backpack for medical school is durability. Next, a medical student usually stores more in their bag than a regular student.
There might be an extra set of clothes, a lab coat, or accompanying scrubs to keep in the bag. This, paired with the voluminous medical textbooks upholds another requirement for the best backpack for medical school: Large capacity.
Moreover, medical student, especially those in their final years usually spends a lot of time on campus and doing rounds. Thus, they not only need water with themselves all the time but also snacks to keep them on their feet. Here arises the need for side/smaller pockets in a medical school backpack.
This brings us to the conclusion that the best backpack for medical students is one that is durable, has a large capacity, and is organized well with side pockets or smaller front pockets. Since carrying a laptop is important for the student of today, an added laptop compartment will also be a huge plus!
Most importantly, however, choose the backpack which appeals to you. Choose the one you vow to take as a friend because it is certainly going to be there for you through these difficult years of learning medicine.
The list of best backpacks for medical school has been carefully selected and given to you; it is now up to you to choose the best (read: durable, large, and organized) backpack for your medical school.
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