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How to Choose the Perfect Backpack

Posted by Katharine Guidotti on

There is a lot to consider when it comes to finding the perfect backpack. The right backpack should not only complement your style preferences but also meet your specific needs.

With so many backpacks available, it’s important to understand the various purposes of each bag, review their unique characteristics, features and differences, and determine which one works best for you.

Instead of feeling overwhelmed, let us help you find the perfect backpack!

Whether you're a diligent student, an intrepid globetrotter, a busy commuter, or someone who’s simply seeking a versatile bag, we have an impressive range of different types of backpacks to cater to your needs and wants.

In this helpful guide, we’ll navigate you through the world of backpacks so you can make the right choice for you with help from valuable insights and expert advice.

Get ready to discover the ideal backpack that seamlessly blends style, comfort, and functionality!

Types of Backpacks

When it comes to making the right choice, having a better understanding of the different types of backpacks available is essential.

Below, we’ll highlight the wide range of our popular backpack, each tailored to meet specific needs and activities.

Travel Backpacks

Backpack in purple and blue floral pattern

Travel backpacks are designed to accommodate your essentials and provide optimal comfort during your adventures. They come in various sizes, ranging from carry-on options to larger backpacks for extended trips.

When determining how to choose a travel backpack, some of the key features to consider include:

  • Size: Choose a travel backpack that meets airline carry-on regulations if you frequently travel by plane.
  • Durability: Look for backpacks made from sturdy materials like nylon or polyester, which can withstand rough handling during travel.
  • Compartments and Organizational Features: Travel backpacks often have multiple compartments to help you stay organized. Consider features such as laptop sleeves, zippered pockets, and separate compartments for travel essentials such as smartphones, chargers, passports and IDs.
  • Comfort: Look for padded shoulder straps and trolly sleeves to ensure comfortable carrying and easy portability, especially for extended periods.

Vera Bradley offers an excellent selection of travel backpacks, including our popular ReActive Daytripper Backpack. With its lightweight yet durable design, spacious interior, padded laptop compartment, built-in trolly sleeve and comfortable padded straps, this backpack is perfect for everything from day trips and weekend getaways to exploring various states and countries.

School/College Backpacks

For high school and college students, a backpack that combines style and functionality is essential. These backpacks must be durable, practical, and comfortable for carrying an assortment of textbooks, a laptop, tablet, and other essentials for their academic pursuits.

Backpack in black and white medallion pattern

If you’re a student shopping for a new backpack, consider the following factors:

  • Size: Choose a backpack that easily accommodates a laptop and textbooks with room to spare. Confirm its dimensions and capacity to ensure it meets all of your school day needs.
  • Organization: Look for backpacks with multiple compartments, including a padded laptop compartment and multiple interior and exterior pockets for smaller items like pens, notebooks, and water bottles.
  • Ergonomics: Carrying around all of those essentials can be tough on your body. Opt for a backpack with generously padded shoulder straps and back panel to reduce strain on your back and shoulders.

Vera Bradley's Campus Backpack earns high marks from students everywhere. It offers ample storage space for books, notebooks, and a laptop, along with multiple pockets for additional organization. If you prefer a larger size, the XL Campus Backpack is an excellent option, providing even more room for all your school essentials along with an exterior window for school IDs.

Large backpack in blue and black floral paisley pattern

Commuting Backpacks

Designed for on-the-go professionals and college/graduate students who travel to school via public transportation, commuter backpacks prioritize comfort and convenience above all!

When you need a dependable bag for commuting to work or school, shop for backpacks that check the following boxes:

  • Size and Capacity: Choose a backpack that can accommodate your laptop, documents, and daily essentials without being overly bulky.
  • Durability: Since your commuter bag is going to be logging as many miles as you in the car, bus or subway, it needs to be made of high quality material to withstand the rigors of its daily journey.
  • Organization: Look for backpacks with dedicated compartments for laptops, tablets, and smaller pockets for accessories like chargers, pens and stationery.
  • Comfort, Convenience and Style: Choose a backpack with padded shoulder straps, a pair of top handles for those times when you can’t wear a backpack in crowded buses, subway trains, and a color or pattern that reflects your personal style.

Our ReActive Campus Totepack combines the functionality of a backpack with the style of a tote bag. Its convertible shoulder straps/top handles design allows you to easily switch between carrying options effortlessly, making it suitable for a variety of commuting settings and scenarios. Plus, its durable, water-repellent material ensures your belongings stay secure and dry even on rainy/snowy days.

Black water repellent backpack with tote handles

Utility Backpacks

Ideal for everyday use, utility backpacks are the versatile companions you need for your various activities.

Some of the features to consider when selecting the perfect utility backpack for your everyday needs are:

  • Size: Depending on your unique needs, choose a utility backpack that offers enough space for your essentials without being overly bulky.
  • Accessibility: Opt for backpacks with multiple compartments and easy-to-reach pockets, allowing you to quickly access essential items on the go.
  • Stay dry: Look for backpacks made from water-repellent materials to protect your belongings during outdoor adventures or inclement weather.

When it comes to everyday backpacks, we offer several great selections including our Small Backpack. This compact yet functional option is perfect for carrying your daily essentials while keeping your hands free. Available in a choice of vibrant patterns and colors, its lightweight water-repellent design makes it a smart choice for a multi-purpose backpack.

Small backpack with black and blue large flower pattern

Another popular choice in the utility category is our Sling Backpack. Its compact, yet deceptively roomy, design makes it easy to take your essentials with you whenever your day takes you. Its spacious main compartment is complemented by two additional zippered pockets, an exterior key ring, and a stylish and comfortable single shoulder strap.

Green quilted sling backpack

Embark On Your Daily Journeys With The Best Backpack

Choosing the perfect backpack requires careful consideration of your specific needs and preferences. Vera Bradley offers a wide range of backpack options, each designed with attention to detail and functionality.

By considering the types of backpacks available and evaluating factors such as size, top features, and suitability for specific activities, you can find the ideal backpack to accompany you on your everyday adventures.

Find Your Perfect Backpack

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