Back to school backpack deals — 9 deals I recommend from $27

Columbia Trek Backpack (18L): was $45 now $27 @ Columbia
This backpack is pretty perfect for everyday adventures, and an excellent choice for weekend travel. Featuring multiple carrying strap options and an external zippered pocket to house your phone, wallet, and other essentials, the Trek is a diminutive backpack that won’t weigh you down as you dash from one class to another.  

Helly Hansen Sentrum Backpack (15L): was $75 now $45 @ Helly Hansen
Designed to handle all your academic needs (and then some), the Sentrum backpack features a dedicated laptop sleeve between the main compartment and padded back panel to keep your tech protected. You also get an internal organizer, a flat front pocket, and a mesh water bottle sleeve on the side. Bonus: there’s a removable sternum strap to keep the backpack from bouncing around when you’re on the move.  Note: Select the color "Sparrow Grey" to see this price.

Patagonia Fieldsmith Linked Pack (25L): was $89 now $52 @ Patagonia
If you’re looking for a more-than-capable weekender bag that’ll take you from the halls to the hills, check out the Fieldsmith Linked Pack, which is packing 5L more storage space than the Atom Tote above. Featuring a full-height front pocket and easy-open cinch top, the backpack’s 15-inch laptop sleeve doubles as a hydration reservoir sleeve, and an over-the-top strap allows for light tethering.  

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack (20L): was $89 now $61 @ Patagonia
Available in a few different color schemes, the Atom Tote Pack comes with a removable 13-inch laptop sleeve, which houses a built-in zippered pocket to keep smaller accessories extra secure. There’s even a hydration hanger inside the main compartment to accommodate water bladders, making this backpack a useful go-between for impromptu hikes after class. All fabrics are made from 100% recycled materials, and the body fabric is coated with a durable water-repellent finish. 

Adidas One Shoulder Backpack (20L): was $90 now $72 @ Adidas
Boasting two spacious main compartments and a singular shoulder strap that’s easy to sling over your head, Adidas sure isn’t pulling any punches with the One Shoulder Backpack. Its durable ripstop fabric is made from partially recycled materials, with reflective details to add extra visibility when the sun starts to dip. Long-story-short: it’s a sporty backpack that gives you all the basics, making it an excellent choice for shorter commutes.  

The North Face Trail Lite Backpack (24L): was $125 now $75 @ The North Face
If you’re looking for a back-to-school backpack that can handle whatever you throw at, look no further than the Trail Lite Backpack from TNF. This highly technical daypack is perfect for seasoned hikers, featuring a padded hipbelt (with two quick-access pockets), an internal water bladder pocket, two external water bottle pockets, and adjustable bungees galore. The breathable back panel and adjustable sternum straps were made for the long haul. 

Gregory Resin (22L): was $119 now $89 @ Gregory
Made entirely from recycled fabrics, the Resin backpack features a weather-resistant front panel on the outside; a dedicated laptop sleeve on the inside; and plenty of pocketed padding in between to keep your stowables stowed. But that’s not all! There’s also a water bottle pocket on the side; dual-density padded foam on the back; a sternum strap in the front; and a reinforced panel on the bottom. It’s an ergonomic design in a sustainable package.  

Nike ACG Aysen Day Pack (32L): was $200 now $127 @ Nike
Featuring Nike’s durable-yet-flexible Dyneema material built into the rolltop upper, this super sleek backpack is as fashionable as it is functional. You’ll find oodles of expandable storage inside and out, and padded mesh panels along the back for increased airflow. A water bottle pocket keeps hydration top of mind, and a smaller front pocket keeps your valuables on hand. Bottom line: don’t underestimate this dynamic day pack. 

Salewa Trek Mate Backpack (55L+5L): was $199 now $159 @ Salewa
If backpacking is more than just a casual hobby in between classes, consider the Trek Mate backpack from Salewa. Designed for extended hiking trips and multi-day treks, you can expect excellent ergonomics and exceptional lumbar support from the adjustable hip belt and padded shoulder straps. This backpack already has a massive 55L capacity, but the height-adjustable lid adds an extra 5L of storage if necessary. The abrasion-resistant, double-ripstop polyester construction was built to last.