Back to school shopping has officially started and the best item to buy early is a reliable backpack. If you need a spacious laptop bag, a lightweight carrying bag backpack or a timeless designer style that you’ll wear long after the semester ends, discounts are up to 71% off at Nordstrom Rack, Amazon, Target, Urban Outfitters and other stores.
As an editorial operations associate for NBC Selected, I frequently cover seasonal sales and know how to spot a deal that’s definitely worth shopping for. I also have a sister in high school and a brother in college, and as my designated back-to-school shopping buddy, I’ve become a pro at getting the best products at the lowest prices. Keep reading to discover the best backpack deals from top brands like The North Face, Coach, Marc Jacobs, Calpak, Kate Spade and more, and why these deals are worth grabbing before they’re gone.
Recently Featured in NBC Selected Calpack Brand GuideTHE Terra Laptop Backpack is designed for people whose days are varied. It protects a 14-inch laptop and can attach to any rolling luggage, and even has a hydration reservoir for hiking and other outdoor adventures. This version is a little smaller than the popular one Terra Laptop Travel Bag with the aim of being light and versatile, with organization being the priority.
It’s the ultimate bag for someone going straight from the gym to work or school (or vice versa) or for the student-athlete working out right after class. It offers enough space for your laptop and/or books and small essentials, as well as a compartment for your sneakers, space for your clothes and a pocket for your water bottle. The water-resistant fabric means you don’t have to worry about unexpected rain, and if you’re using it for traveling, it will fit under most airplane seats.
The North Face Jester Backpack is highly recommended as a universal fit for all students. It features a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and a padded back panel for comfortable all-day wear. The water-repellent exterior also makes it a reliable choice for rainy campus walks or accidental spills.
As a little girl, all I ever wanted was something from Kate Spade and today, nothing has changed. The floral design of this bag sets it apart from the standard satchel while providing enough space for most laptops (15 inches on average). With multiple interior and exterior pockets and leather trim that elevates the look, this backpack is refined enough for the office and practical enough for school.
The straps of this bag are easily adjustable and the denim design goes with any outfit. The two front zippered pockets make it easy to store and organize small items and the spacious main pocket can hold laptops, tablets, clutches and of course books.
Reviewers call this the ultimate bag for everyday use because it has a roomy design without being bulky. It’s also very comfortable, with adjustable straps and an easy-access side entry. It also features a padded, fleece-lined sleeve that fits most laptops up to 16 inches, expandable water pockets, and a classic design that customers love.
More backpacks on saleWhy these deals are worth it Up to 71% off (meaning hundreds of dollars in savings), including picks priced under $100They’re selling out quickly, with inventory already starting to dwindle, including limited-time deals. Ideal for travel and activities beyond schoolOptions for students as well as teachers and other professorsSome of the lowest prices we’ve seen on designer backpacks in recent yearsWant to know more about NBC Selected? Register for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.
Why trust NBC Selected?I’m the Editorial Operations Associate for NBC Select, where I test hundreds of products each year and help readers find the best deals. I’ve covered major shopping events like Back to School, Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday since 2023, contributing to numerous deal roundups as well as beauty, skincare, travel and wellness stories.
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