The best types of bags for school are functional yet stylish. They allow you to fit in all your daily essentials and are comfortable to wear while looking on-trend and fashionable. Whether you're at high school or college, there are many bags you can choose from that tick all the right boxes.
Unisex Types of School Bags
The following school bags are appropriate for both boys and girls.
Utilitarian Backpack
Considered a handbag staple on the school scene, a utilitarian backpack is currently one of the most practical options on the market. They're always a decent size and have multiple compartments; therefore, you will have plenty of room for your books and other important possessions. Available in a range of colors and waterproof materials like canvas, a backpack's double strap allows you to carry it on your back for even weight distribution and long lasting wear.
Messenger Bag
A messenger bag (traditionally known as a bookbag) is another serviceable option for everyday occasions, such as school and work. These types of bags tend to be large and rectangular to be able to fit in A4 notebooks and textbooks or even a laptop. A messenger bag usually has a long strap that allows you to wear it comfortably across your body or on your shoulder. It also has a large flap with a press stud fastening to allow easy access.
Leather Backpack
A leather backpack is a utilitarian backpack's younger, cooler sibling. It's less about function and more about making a serious style statement. The main difference is the material is not as practical and the straps will perhaps be a bit thinner and not as comfortable to wear. However, a leather backpack is still sturdy and gets the job done when it comes to providing a good amount of space for your school equipment.
Duffle Bag
A duffle bag is more sensible than stylish; however, you can get some versions that look just as pretty as they are effective. They tend to be large and can either be boxy or barrel-shaped. In terms of handles and straps, duffles typically have two short handles and one long strap so you can wear it across your body for convenience. They are made from waterproof canvas or nylon, which makes them extremely easy to care for.
Weekender Bag
The weekender is a handbag must-have, whether you decide to use it for school or not. However, its appeal for the school environment lies in the fact it's particularly roomy, which is ideal for sports students or those who have to carry a lot of equipment. Often made from leather and exceptionally sturdy, it can undoubtedly compete with the much-loved duffle bag.
School Bags for Girls
The following school bags provide great variety for girls.
Satchel Bag
A satchel bag is a mini version of the messenger bag for girls, but it can also differ slightly in shape. Messenger bags are typically rectangular, but satchel bags can be a half-moon shape or look like half a circle. Either way, they almost always have a long crossbody strap to distribute the load of their contents. If you only have the odd class or minimal equipment to take to school one day, the satchel is a fun and lightweight option.
Backpack Purse
If you're an avid trend follower and love to showcase the latest arm candy, check out the utilitarian backpack's even younger, even cooler sister. A backpack purse essentially looks like a fashion-forward purse but has two straps so that you can wear it on your back.
Tote Bag
Whether it's made from no-frills canvas or luxurious leather, the tote bag is an extremely popular handbag option for school. Almost always rectangular, they feature two mid-sized handles that make them easy to carry on one shoulder. Furthermore, as well as being reasonably roomy for all your daily possessions, tote bags are timelessly fashionable.
Trapeze Bag
Designed to be worn on the shoulder or effortlessly on the arm, the trapeze bag is trendy arm candy straight from the runway. Made from leather or faux leather, they're not considered the most practical option. However, you can absolutely wear a trapeze bag for school if you invest in the right size. Some larger trapeze bags are certainly spacious enough to fit all your A4-sized books and other equipment.
School Bags for Boys
Other than the unisex options, there are a couple of other types of school bag that would be suitable for boys.
Crossbody Bag
A crossbody bag has the same long strap as a messenger bag and is designed to be worn across the body; however, it is usually smaller, more square, and fastens with a zip or singular buckle. These types of bags are ideal for days where you only have one class or limited equipment to carry.
Laptop Bag
A male's laptop bag (sometimes known as a briefcase bag) is also slightly different from a conventional messenger bag. It has two short handles, as well as a crossbody strap so you can simply grab it and go on days where you're rushing to leave the house. Laptop bags tend to be made from high-quality fabrics like leather, feature an envelope flap, and fasten using one or two buckles for extra sturdiness.
Finding What Works
There are a variety of bag options that are suitable for the school environment. However, it's important to shop around to find the right one that ties in best with your personal taste and lifestyle.
