Five of the Best School Backpacks

A great school backpack needs to carry everything from homework, books and water bottles to snacks and playground treasures. Plus, it has to stand up to those busy school mornings, bumpy bus journeys, and the after-school adventures spent with friends.

And here at Childrensalon, we've got backpacks for every classroom personality. So read on for five of the best kids’ backpacks to buy this season . . .

Who's it for: The Class Explorer who is practical, prepared and always one step ahead. 

Why we love it: Made in durable canvas with a decorative toggle front, this cool rucksack from Tommy Hilfiger is packed with functional features which are perfect for mornings on the go. The top flap folds over the zipper and is secured with two buckle clips, keeping everything inside the main comparment nice and safe when they're making a run for class or the school bus. And when it's time to rehydrate, the handy grab pockets on either side are the perfect place to stow away their drinks bottles.

What you'll find inside: From pens and notebooks to snacks and spare layers, nothing is left behind before these cool clasmates head out. 

Who it’s for: The Animal Lover who just can’t get enough of furry friends.

Why we love it: What could be more exciting than heading to preschool with a bunny backpack in tow? Handcrafted from durable canvas fabric that wipes clean with ease, it’s a practically perfect choice for little ones on the move. Lightweight for small shoulders, it features adjustable, padded straps and an adorable leather bunny appliqué with soft faux fur ears. On the inside, there's a large, zipped compartment with internal zipped pocket and a smaller magnetic-fastening pocket on the front for all their bits and bobs. It’s got a top handle too, made in soft leather, ideal for those rushed mornings when you just need to grab it and go.

What you’ll find inside: Spare socks for Forest School (covered in paw prints) and a sticker-covered journal full of recently learnt animal facts! 

Who it’s for: The Studious Kid who always has a spare pen or pencil to hand. 

Why we love it: If their school uniform is a little on the stricter side, then you can't go wrong with a classic black backpack. With its practical canvas fabric and sporty feel, this Lacoste backpack stands out in all the right ways, even if the colour doesn't. The signature branding adds a subtly stylish touch, and inside you'll find a handy name tag, so that it doesn't get lost in a sea of black backpacks come home time. It also comes with a stylish matching pencil case, which can be attached to the bag with a clip. And the soft padded shoulder straps and accompanying chest strap make carrying it home feel that little bit easier, especially if you end up with it on your shoulder at school pick-up.

What you’ll find inside: All the gadgets and today's homework, perfectly filed and colour-coded, ready for marking. 

Who it’s for: The Confident Classmate who lights up the hallway with a warm, friendly smile.

Why we love it: From early sports sessions to after-school clubs, this cool Ralph Lauren backpack is made to keep up with their non-stop day. It comes in classic beige canvas and is full of signature details, like the iconic Polo Bear on the front and the branded zip pulls that make opening and closing the compartments a breeze. There are two spacious main compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve, to keep things organised, and the front zip pocket is perfect for stashing their go-to items like keys and earbuds.

What you’ll find inside: All the books needed for every class on the timetable, along with a colour-coded planner to keep track of upcoming clubs. What time's swimming? 

Who it’s for: The Class Creative who can’t resist bright, cheerful accessories that make every school day feel more fun.

Why we love it: This Mini Rodini backpack is comfy, practical and bursting with personality they're bound to love. Made from soft yet sturdy recycled canvas, it features a playful dog print on a background of soft, muted pink — it also comes in a vivid lime green colourway, which is perfectly suited to weekend adventures. The spacious main compartment has multiple pockets for easy organisation and fastens with a zip across the top and on the bottom you'll find rubber feet, which will help prevent wear and tear. Plus, the removable, fluffy dog-shaped document holder is ideal for a bus pass or name tag.
 

What you’ll find inside: A personalised notebook, a stash of scented stationery and some colourful hair clips for the school photos (you can never have too many bows).