Top 5!: Cool Backpacks under $40

By Amy Loeffler

Used to be your backpack was just a drab piece of canvas you lugged your school books in. But these days backpacks have gone from boring and basic, to being just as customized and individual as their owners. We’ve picked five backpacks under $40 that make the grade for back-to-school lists.

Junior Original Book Pack: This L.L. Bean classic now comes in smaller dimensions for your pint-sized student who just wants to act like the big kids. This school gear features the look of the older kids’ pack and comes in fun patterns, but is designed for smaller arms and shoulders (ages 4 and up). Timeless styling includes a front pocket for storing pens and pencils. And like any Bean product, it’s even better monogrammed. (About $20)

Multitask Backpack: Kids' schedules are packed just as full as their backpacks. Here’s one that can handle the school day and go into the afternoon for extra curricular activities or study sessions. The Land’s End Multitask Backpack has compartments for an MP3/CD player, mesh side pockets for water bottles, and even a space in the bottom for stowing shoes for the gym or after-school sports. (About $40)

Kids’ J World Lightning Wheels Rolling Backpack: Your offspring can rock-n-roll through the school day with this carry-all on wheels. Traditional design features zip closures, side mesh pockets and wheels that light up when this baby hits the pavement or hallways! (About $40)

Critter Pack: Designed for ages 7 and up, the Critter Pack from L.L. Bean comes in bright colors and patterns and features an embroidered animal on the backpack. Kids can choose from a spider, raccoon, butterfly, flamingo, gecko, panda or shark. Two zippered side pockets with mesh panels keep items handy on field trips and in the classroom. (About $36)

High Sierra Compu Case Backpack: This simple backpack has a padded interior to keep your kid’s laptop snug when transporting it to and from school in the car or on the bus, and a simple black exterior that won’t show dirt. (About $23)

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