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These picks deserve an A+.

It's hard to believe that summer has already come and gone. Family vacations are wrapping up and the kiddos are looking forward to one last Labor Day weekend before it's back to school! But before you start prepping those ham sandwiches and trail mix for their lunchboxes, it's time for a little back-to-school shopping. Of course, you've got to gather essential supplies like pencils, folders, and notepads... oh, and a new backpack!

Choosing the best backpack for school really is key to a great year of learning. Not only will they constantly use it to lug around everything they need, but it's a cool way to display their unique personality! Just ask Ree Drummond: she's watched all five of her kids—yes, including her bonus kid Jamar—graduate high school. It can be hard to find a backpack both mom and child agree on, though. Your kid wants it to be fun, but it also needs to be functional! So shop this list of the best backpacks for the 2022 school year.

Whether they're entering elementary school, high school, or college beyond—here you'll find a backpack for kids of all ages and interests. You'll see bags that are spacious enough to fit everything they need with plenty of pocket space and padded straps to carry easily. Durability is also top of mind. Most items here will last semester after semester and can be easily cleaned , too. You'll also find options with built-in insulated compartments for lunches or clips to hold their lunchbox. Not to mention—lots and lots of fun patterns and prints that are definitely cool enough to show off to friends.

As the first day approaches, shop these backpacks for school. Then, just make sure you've got the after-school snacks ready and a bake sale planned.

The backpack that has it all: durability, compartments, and pockets to store everything they'll need. It comes with reflective safety features and padding for a comfortable carry. You can even throw it in the wash for an easy clean!

This one is perfect for the littlest kiddos—just the right size to carry the essentials without weighing them down. And with an insulated front pocket, they don't have to worry about keeping up with a lunchbox.

Check out this best selling bag—built to be fun and efficient! It comes in 4 different sizes and plenty of patterns. Pockets, padding and reflective detailing make it a great choice for your kiddo. They can also clip their lunchbox to the front.

As they get older, school requires more and more. Well, this bag is up for the challenge. They can store all the books and binders they'll need—plus a laptop. Choose from lots of fun designs and personalization options for a stylish year!

Storage, storage, and more storage! We've got our eye on this pick thanks to the multiple interior and exterior pockets. They can pack it all and keep it organized. There's also a padded laptop sleeve and padded back for maximum comfort.

This iconic backpack has been an internet sensation for years! Older kids will definitely love the trendiness and functionality. It's super durable with water-resistant Vinylon fabric and can fit anything from books to laptops.

Kids will be excited to start the school year with this pick on their backs. It's a good choice for those in pre-K with an easy-to-clean lightweight design, cute patterns, and a chest clip for added carrying ease.

Unicorns and butterflies and koalas, oh my! This adorable backpack has 3 sizes to choose from and lots of fun animal faces. With more than 21,000 reviews, it's definitely a hit with kids and parents alike!

Products from The North Face are known to withstand the elements and this backpack is no exception. Give them the ability to take on whatever the school day may bring with spacious zippered compartments, pockets, and tough but comfortable straps.

This choice is on the more expensive side, but it's definitely worth the pretty penny. If your kid is looking for a more sleek and sophisticated design—you'll want to go with this one. It will comfortably fit anything they need and is high quality with durable canvas material and a lined interior that's easy to clean.

We love this choice for the little ones who plays sports or are involved in any other after school activities. It's high-quality and roomy enough to store both school supplies and any other gear they may need. There's a back panel for extra comfort and the front pocket lining is antimicrobial.

Your kid can go to infinity and beyond with this backpack by their side! Water-resistant material and reinforced stitching make it durable while a chest clip, adjustable strap and easy-to-grab handle make it efficient. They'll also love all the Disney and Pixar patterns to choose from!

They can say goodbye to lugging around more than one bag with this nifty choice. It features a built-in insulated lunch bag to fit food containers and snacks. Not to mention— it's cute, easy to carry, easy to clean, and made to last.

You can't go wrong with this #1 Bestseller. The beloved classic design comes in 15+ colors, is durable and made for comfortable all-day carrying. You'll find a utility pocket with a built-in organizer and spacious storage in the main interior.

For less than $30 you can get your kiddo a backpack and lunch bag. They match, too! It's plenty spacious with pockets and zippered compartments. They'll also enjoy the cool prints, plus added back and strap support.