The Best Kids’ Backpacks for the 2026 School Year
The article reviews a selection of kids’ backpacks tested by children for durability, capacity, and comfort. It highlights top choices such as the L.L. Bean Deluxe Book Pack, State Bags Kane Double Pocket Backpack, and GoRuck KR1, noting their features and price points. Updated recommendations include newer models from The North Face, Simple Modern, Kindred Bravely, and GoRuck.
- ▪Backpacks were evaluated by WIRED’s Reviews team using real‑world tests like locker storage and plane seat fitting.
- ▪The L.L. Bean Deluxe Book Pack is praised for its sturdy 420‑denier nylon construction and water‑resistant design.
- ▪State Bags’ Kane Double Pocket Backpack offers a 23.6‑liter capacity, separate compartments, and an AirTag pocket for tracking.
- ▪GoRuck KR1 is presented as a heavy‑duty option priced at $65, suitable for rugged use.
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| Original publisher | WIRED |
| Canonical URL | https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-kids-backpacks-2026/ |
| Publication time | Sun, 02 Aug 2026 10:01:00 +0000 |
| Retrieval time | 2026-08-02T10:05:40.606Z |
| Last seen | 2026-08-02T10:05:40.606Z |
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Basis: Derived from the published RSS/Atom feed. Contact: [email protected]. Reviewed: 2026-07-24.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Adrienne SoGearAug 2, 2026 6:01 AMThe Best Kids’ Backpacks, Tested by Actual KidsYour kid’s little lunch hauler takes a brutal beating every day. These are the options our own kids have tried and loved.CommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyFeatured in this articleBest OverallL. L. Bean Deluxe Book PackRead more$55 L. L. BeanBest UpgradeState Bags Kane Double Pocket BackpackRead more$98 State Bags (Mini)Best Heavy-DutyGoRuck KR1Read more$65 GoRuckA Cool First BackpackStorq Cool Kid BackpackRead more$55 $47 (15% off) NordstromAs an adult gear tester, I have one major problem with looking for the best kids’ backpacks: Ultimately, the decision is not up to me.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at WIRED.
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