Need a lightweight, versatile college backpack? We found the best college backpacks for guys. Read this to conquer your campus in style.

Best College Backpack for Guys Introduction

There is no time in a man’s life quite like the glory days of college. It’s your time to explore what the world has to offer, on campus or even abroad. The days go by faster than the blink of an eye, but the memories will be there forever. When you look back on your time at college, do you want to think about struggling with a backpack that’s too small or totally disorganized? Of course not.  We curated the 30 best college backpacks for guys, so you can carry a bag which stays out of the way, gets the job done, and integrates seamlessly into your everyday routine.

A college backpack should offer a few essential qualities. It needs to be durable because it will be with you almost 24/7 and it will take a beating, no matter how gentle you are with it. It needs to be well-organized for academic performance because you do not have time to rummage around for papers or lose an important handout. It needs to be roomy because it will be packed to the brim with your laptop, chargers, books, papers, and gym clothes, and who knows what else. Finally, it must be comfortable because under a backpack so loaded with stuff, your back needs to be well-protected.

AmazonBasics Backpack for Laptops up to 17-inches

The AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack is optimized to keep your computer safe as you go about your day. Whether you are tearing across campus on your bike dropping it on the floor after a long day of lectures, this reliable bag can handle the bumps and bruises of your everyday routine. It features ample padding both in the straps and on the back, for your comfort even when the bag is stuffed with your college gear. It has a side-pocket for your water bottle and a clever mesh compartment integrated into the shoulder strap for easy-access to your phone. Backed by the trustworthy Amazon brand, you can bet that this bag is thoughtfully designed, trustworthy, and elegant. Never lose a thing with this 5-compartment, highly organized backpack, perfectly designed for busy college students. -BUY IT

Herschel Supply Co. Retreat College Backpack

The Herschel Supply Co. Retreat Backpack is perfect college backpack for guys with bulky items like laptops, college textbooks, folders, and headphones. This bag boasts a separate 15-inch laptop compartment plus a huge internal pouch for your other stuff, so you don’t have to struggle against a bunch of tiny internal compartments. With this roomy interior and wide access, you have free reign over your gear’s storage and retrieval. This bag has a classic look with modern advantages such as drawstring closure, laptop compartment, magnetic straps, and even an integrated headphone port so you can listen with your device still stowed away. GEARCTRL deems the Herschel Retreat to be among the most cool backpacks for college guys, and you will too. Despite its traditional canvas-y look from the outside, the inside is pillowy soft and padded to protect your gear. The backpack comes in over 20 colors, so you are sure to find one that speaks to you. -BUY IT

JanSport Hatchet College Backpack

The JanSport Hatchet College Backpack is a rugged spin on an old classic, making it one of the best backpacks for college guys. Armed with a special sleeve for a 15-inch laptop, plus an extra pocket for your tablet or iPad, this bad boy is ready for any tech you could throw at it. With two water bottle pockets, ample space for all your chargers and accessories, you can go right from your morning classes to the dining hall, then the gym, and be out all night without ever needing to stop by your dorm room. Organization is this backpack’s specialty, exemplified by its front zippered gear pocket, a deluxe organizer pocket, and an internal key clip. Plus, it is extremely durable, with attractive bonded leather trims for maximum tensile strength.  With over ten styles to choose from, there is a Hatchet Backpack for you. -BUY IT

Adidas Originals National Backpack

The Adidas Originals National Backpack is a well-rounded choice for university, with just the right balance between streetwear and practicality. The simple, understated aesthetic is nicely balanced by its athletic feel. But its advantages go beyond the sporty exterior. It is water-resistant and features a laptop sleeve with a protective lining. This bag is ideal for a college guy on the go, who doesn’t need to lug around a backpack as big as he is. It is especially nice for student athletes who need to run to practice without being weighed down. Internally, the bag is roomy and features multiple organizing pockets, a laptop compartment, and enough room for books, binders, and a tablet. Adidas has a solid track record and this bag certainly lives up to the name. -BUY IT

The North Face Pivoter Laptop Backpack

The North Face Pivoter Laptop Backpack balances style, comfort, and utility in a way that few backpacks can. A good college backpack needs to be sturdy enough to use daily and comfortable enough for your back as you walk around campus. This backpack can do both, thanks to its innovative suspension system which reinforces the shoulder straps, boosts your posture, and prevents the base from sagging under the weight of your college textbooks. The padded laptop sleeve protects your gadgets from falls, and the main compartment is big enough to fit all your binders, notebooks, and accessories. The reflective loop on the back is a nice touch for any cyclists who wish to hang a safety light, and the entire surface of the backpack is peppered with reflective patches. The North Face is synonymous with quality, and this bag is proof that this rings true. -BUY IT

Herschel Supply Co. Classic Backpack Multipurpose Backpack

The Herschel Classic Backpack is faithful to the enduring Herschel aesthetic. This tastefully understated, yet attractive college bag is awesome for the guy who prefers a neat look without frills and flashiness. The dependable Prusik cord zipper pulls will not let you down, go ahead and yank on them when your bag is overstuffed. The signature striped fabric liner will safeguard your 17-inch laptop and look good doing it. You can seriously pack this to the brim with all your EDC gear, laptop accessories, and heck, even a change of clothes. Take it with you to class or even to the airport as you fly home for Thanksgiving, it’s big and strong enough to handle all the gear you can stuff into it. Since this is a Herschel Supply bag, it comes with their lifetime warranty, a nice added touch. -BUY IT

Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack

The Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack is a great college backpack, especially for those who bike to class. Not only can it stow a 15-inch laptop, the crafty water-bottle pocket is designed to double as a holder for your u-lock. Never struggle to find a place for your u-lock again, simply slide it into the side pocket and it will stay put for you. Plus, there is a back loop to clip on a light for those night-time bike rides across campus. The internals of this bag are nice too, with an array of organizer pockets for pens, electronics, and more secure zippered compartments for valuables like a passport. Did we mention this pack comes with a bottle opener built right into the strap? Now you can swoop into the party on your bike and crack open the beer. -BUY IT

Outjoy Laptop Backpack with Rain Cover

The Outjoy Laptop Backpack with Rain Cover is one tough backpack, and it means business. It boasts a shockproof 17-inch laptop compartment, water-proof design, a bonus water-resistant cover, and even a strap to slip the backpack onto the drawbar of your wheeled-luggage. This beast even comes with airbags. No, seriously, it has a built-in airbag which lines and protects the laptop compartment. When you have a long day of class or a big trip ahead of you, this is the bag you want. It has enough compartments to store your computer, tablet, umbrella, wallet, keys, books, clothes, and even shoes all at the same time. If it rains, you can rest easy knowing that little can penetrate this bag’s tough exterior, especially when you slip on the water-resistant cover. Despite the heavy-duty features, this bag is gentle on your back, with enough padding to keep you comfortable. -BUY IT

Mancro Backpack w/ USB Charging Port

The Mancro Backpack w/ USB Charging Port may be the optimal backpack for engineering and computer science majors. If your college everyday carry includes a 17-inch laptop, a phone, and other valuable tech, this backpack will help protect your gear with its anti-theft combo-lock and rock-solid metal zippers. With all that equipment in tow, you’ll be relieved to know that this backpack is water-repelling too. Tired of your gear losing power in the middle of the day? Thanks to the charging port built into the side of the bag, you can plug your phone right into the backpack without even needing to open it (just drop your battery into the bag and connect it to the internal side of the charging port). Whether you need a charge at the airport or want to help your classmate jumpstart her phone, this inventive bag has your back. -BUY IT

KOPACK Anti Theft Travel Backpack

The KOPACK Anti-Theft Travel Backpack is a futuristic way to keep your gear safe. Do you live off-campus in a rough part of town? Do you have to walk through crowds of people around college? Consider this amazing anti-theft backpack. You are likely wondering how this thing even opens, and that’s what any would-be pick-pocketers will wonder as well. The zipper is tucked away in the edge of the bag closest to your back, inaccessible to anyone but you. The internals of this bag are impressive too, with a shockproof, up to 17-inch laptop compartment, internal water bottle holder, earphone port, and two secret hidden pockets flush against your back, there is a place for everything. Plus, the bag unzips in a clamshell fashion for full access, and nothing will fall out thanks to special straps to hold everything in place. Even while running, you won’t feel anything bounce inside. -BUY IT

Under Armour Storm Recruit Backpack

The Under Armour Storm Recruit Backpack is a compact solution for any college men, with room for a 15-inch laptop and unbelievable comfort. The padded shoulder straps and back, with HeatGear technology, deliver relieving airflow as you make your way across campus. The wide straps have an elegant, ergonomic curve to them which will hold the bag in place and evenly distribute the weight of your gear. Water-repelling fabric and a padded interior keep your valuables safe through rain and the day-to-day bumps of your active life. A nice bonus is the scratch-proof bottom, so you can set the bag down anywhere without scuffing it up. This contender is just plain tough, stylish, and ready for anything. It is a solid companion for daily carry around college or on your trip home for the holidays. -BUY IT

Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Backpack

The Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Backpack is one you probably recognized by the picture. This backpack is ubiquitous around college campuses. Its famous diamond accent patch is a stylish touch to a time-tested and battle-proven bag. It is ideal for carrying a 15-inch laptop, with its padded compartment. It is built with high quality leather and even has sturdy leather zipper pulls which will never snap on you. The internal media pocket features a useful headphone port. The backpack comes in dozens of colors and patterns, so you will find one which works for you. The Heritage Backpack is universally adored at universities for its attractive look, sturdiness, and all-around utility. The central compartment is spacious, with plenty of space to toss-in all the necessities for the day. -BUY IT

Fjallraven – Foldsack No.1

The Fjallraven Foldsack No.1 owes its distinctive and memorable appearance to it thoughtful, energetic design. It comes in more colors than you can count, so you will surely look unique on campus with this handy bag. By now, you realize the importance of organization. A cluttered backpack can be more than annoying, leading to academic consequences if you can’t keep track of all your assignments. With its straightforward internal layout, you will have a hard time losing anything in the large central pocket and 15-inch laptop sleeve. The real metal buckles on this bag add an extra sense of durability and quality. No need to fumble around with zippers. The padded base of the backpack also protects your gear from any falls, in case you drop your bag to the floor before plopping down for yet-another morning lecture. -BUY IT

Wowbox Laptop Canvas Backpack

The Wowbox Laptop Canvas Backpack is the coolest blend of old Americana with modern day. This bag looks distinguished and useful, without seeming out of place either. The vintage appeal is matched by exceptionally strong construction, carefully planned organization, awesome leather reinforcements, and real metal buckles. You may be surprised that this sweet rucksack can carry a 15-inch laptop too. The interior is elegant as well, featuring multiple pockets for books, pens, documents, and a zippered pocket for valuables. The double side zippered pockets are a great place to store your gadgets, and the side mesh elastic pocket is the ideal spot for your water bottle. This satchel looks like a true classic, but has all the benefits of modern backpacks. Get this bag to feel like Indiana Jones, keep it for its practicality. -BUY IT

eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

The eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack is for the college guy who loves minimalism. If you travel light, and like it that way, this slim backpack will house your essentials and maintain a low profile. The padded Airmesh back panel will make you feel like there’s nothing on your back at all, and the contoured straps will cradle your shoulders weightlessly. The heathered look is the ideal subtle fabric for this amazing backpack. Large enough to hold a 17-inch laptop, or 15-inch laptop with room to spare for a tablet, this light bag is still plenty useful. The coolest feature is an anti-clutter compartment, which opens outward like a door to reveal multiple zippered pockets for your IDs, electronics, glasses, and EDC gear. The base of the backpack even has a removable “garage” for your power adapters; no more fishing around the bottom of your backpack for those things. -BUY IT

JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack

The JanSport Right Pack Backpack Black may be the most popular and iconic backpack of all time, and it has only become more refined over the years. JanSport built this backpack specifically with students in mind, and it is great for a college guy who needs something which just works, simple as that. It holds a 15-inch laptop and is built of premium Cordura fabric, which is renowned for its durability. The signature suede leather base adds a touch of subtle sophistication. This classic companion will treat you well no matter where you go, whether it accompanies you to the library, coffee shop, or on a train for a weekend trip away from campus. If you need a well-organized backpack but don’t like to fuss over endless features and peacock-style frills, this bag is for you. -BUY IT

The North Face Vault Backpack

The North Face Vault Backpack owes its iron-clad reputation to the creative designers at The North Face, who tailored it to be among the best college backpacks. The floating, padded laptop sleep will protect your 15-inch laptop yet leave plenty of space in the main compartment for your belongings. The reflective webbing is a valuable safety feature for those late-night walks back from the library. The lumbar back panel is made of high quality padding and breathable mesh, to keep the sweat at bay. You won’t go thirsty, thanks to the fact that it has two mesh water bottle pockets, which can double as a quick place to stash a phone or bike lock. This is a compact bag but uses space quite efficiently and can easily be stashed under the average seat in a crowded lecture hall. -BUY IT

Thule EnRoute Triumph 2 Daypack Backpack

The Thule EnRoute Triumph 2 Daypack Backpack is a crowd-favorite as far as compact college backpacks go. For those guys who keep it simple, this unobtrusive, stylish bag will satisfy the minimalist everyday carry evangelist in you. The bag is water-resistant, with special lining around the zippers to keep out moisture. You can certainly live out of this bag for a few days if you need to crash at a buddy’s place or leave town for a weekend. It can fit a 15-inch laptop and a 10-inch tablet, with room for your usual essentials. The padded compartment is sturdy, yet gentle on your most precious gear. Thule is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, and this backpack exemplifies their approach to versatility. It can meet your needs both at school or on a hike in the wilderness. It even houses a SafeZone hard pocket for fragile gear like glasses. -BUY IT

Vaschy Unisex Classic Water Resistant Backpack

The Vaschy Unisex Classic Water Resistant Backpack fits more than it might seem at first glance. This sleek backpack can house a 15-inch laptop, a couple of textbooks (but who reads those anymore), and your supplies in its internal organizing compartments. This is a nice minimalist bag to take to class and go about your day if you don’t need to take the whole farm with you in the morning. The laptop compartment is padded to add protection from drops and bumps. The durable, lightweight polyester construction means the bag does not sag, warp, or shrink over time. The backpack’s base is reinforced to protect from tears and distortions in the fabric. Water-resistant and fully padded, this reliable pack will stay comfortable on your back and protect your gear from the elements. -BUY IT

Bolang College Backpack

The Bolang College Backpack is among the best fabric-style backpacks for college guys out there. Despite the material’s appearance, it is composed of durable nylon and surprisingly water-resistant. It can house a 16-inch laptop and has four main pockets, six inner smaller compartments, and two mesh side-pockets for bottles. The bag comes in a wide range of colors, but black, grey, and navy blue look the best for college men on the go. This backpack is one of the larger fabric-style options available, which makes it perfect for everyday use around campus, or for a longer trip. The material is resistant not only to water, but to dirt and scuffs as well, so it will look new long after you buy this good-looking pack. -BUY IT

Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Backpack

The Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Canvas Backpack is a luxurious choice for men as they navigate college life. It packs a punch with a removable protective laptop sleeve, extensive internal organization for pens, electronics, and documents. It is built from genuine leather, which makes it incredibly strong. That’s good, because this bag is large and can truly be packed to the brim. When not too full, it will feel like just the right size for your everyday necessities around campus. Plus, you have the option to stuff it for longer trips. Created by the world-renowned designer, Tommy Hilfiger, this stylish bag will make a statement. This backpack makes the perfect graduation gift for incoming college student with a sophisticated side. Don’t let its fashionable exterior fool you, this backpack is a workhorse. -BUY IT

Victorinox Architecture Urban Rath Laptop Backpack

The Victorinox Architecture Urban Rath Backpack can carry a 17-inch laptop, a 10-inch tablet, an umbrella, water bottle, and that is just the tip of the iceberg. This backpack is a tank, and is perfect for the college guy with a rigorous course load. If you sometimes feel like you live in the library, this backpack has what you need. When you pack it up in the morning, you will fit everything you need for the rest of the day (and the occasional all-nighter). The backpack is waterproof and has a slick design inspired by the original Swiss Army Knife, and this pack is just as timeless. It comes with an access lock, durable YYK zippers, and even has a hidden pocket flush against your back, an optimal anti-theft system. This bag is built to last and will not let you down. -BUY IT

FRYE Men’s Logan Backpack

The FRYE Men’s Logan Backpack is the culmination of everything the legendary Frye is known for. The rugged craftsmanship, luxe authentic Italian leather, and alluring design make this eye-catching backpack the best all-leather option available. It is designed to have the shape of a traditional school bookbag, so you won’t stick out like a sore thumb. Instead, you will have a practical, attractive, yet quiet backpack that will outlast almost any other. This bag can house a 15-inch laptop and all your gear with ease. The classy look is second to none, and it is extremely functional too. The zippers are metal, firmly stitched into the bag, and the leather handle is thick and reinforced for easy carrying. If you are on the fence about this bag or plan to gift it to a new graduate, you will not be disappointed with this investment. -BUY IT

Tactical Options

If you need a tactical backpack too, why buy one for college and one for tactical use, when you can get a tactical backpack that doubles as a college bookbag? Here are some excellent tactical backpacks for college guys. Or check out our dedicated round-up for more of the best tactical backpacks overall.

Seibertron Falcon Water Repellent

The Seibertron Falcon Water Repellent Backpack is one of the coolest looking tactical backpacks and is also among the most affordable, for you broke college students out there. Whether you are a weekend-backpacker, an avid hiker, a college student, or all three, the Falcon is among your best bets. It can withstand most any weather conditions thanks to its 900D waterproof, tension-resistant, tactical fiber. Even when loaded with your laptop, textbooks, or EDC gear, it provides impressive comfort due to its convenient waist and sternal belts, which will hold everything in place. This well-rounded gear pack comes in black or khaki and is sure to be a favorite among the more tactically-minded college guys. -BUY IT

COVRT 18 by 5.11

The COVRT 18 could fit right in with any other college backpack, but it is certainly more than that. This backpack hides loads of advantages in plain sight. Originally meant for undercover police and military personnel, the COVRT 18 has a side-access pouch and a customizable hidden identification panel. It is loaded with features for the student-warrior- it’s hydration ready, holds a laptop and organizes clerical supplies, and even has a lens-friendly sunglasses pouch. A back plate and ventilated ballistic mesh keep your back comfortable and dry all day. -BUY IT

Condor Compact Assault Pack

The Condor Compact Assault pack is among the most rugged, 24 hour tactical backpacks out there and compact enough for daily carry around your campus. Unlike other compact rucksacks, this beauty features a waist-belt in addition to the standard sternum-strap, for the best back-protection possible as you lug your laptop and textbooks from class to class. The pockets are surprisingly deep and well-organized for documents, pens, and electronics. The backside is ventilated to keep you cool and dry throughout the day. This is one of the few daypacks you can comfortably carry even through high-traffic spots with little space. -BUY IT

SOG Ninja Tactical Day Pack

The SOG Ninja Tactical Day Pack is perhaps the best EDC tactical backpack of 2018, especially for a tactical college student. Let’s face it, you might get some funny looks if you walk into Chemistry 101 if you look like a commando. Here’s where the Ninja Tactical Day Pack is your friend. It looks more like an ordinary backpack, but boasts MOLLE webbing and even a hydration bladder slot. The yoke-style, padded straps, and can handle the everyday bounces of the daily commute, bike-ride, or even a multi-day trek in the wilderness. -BUY IT

Orca Tactical Military Rucksack

The Orca Tactical Military Rucksack is coated in a unique water and scratch-resistant skin, double-stitched, and reinforced to handle all the gear you can stuff into it. This rugged companion can carry everything from your school supplies to survival equipment. This tactical bag comes in three colors: black, khaki, and green, all of which would look great around campus. The prominent Orca logo makes this bag more attractive. This bag is perfect for class, hiking, and just about any adventure you can muster. -BUY IT