One of the key questions that has been on my mind lately and one that I am sure many other fellow college students have asked is, “What is the best bag for college students?”
Now, to answer this question, there are many more we need to ask ourselves. How much can one bag carry? Is it waterproof so my laptop does not get damaged when it rains? Will my back have enough support so that I do not break it when carrying this bag? Does it travel well if I am going home via public transportation or even a plane?
While trying to find a bag that answers all these questions, I thought, “Why not ask my fellow students what they think of their backpacks?”
Here is some information I found on some of the leading backpack brands from consulting with three of my peers.
“I love my backpack so much because it’s made to hold a lot and still be comfortable. As someone with chronically tense shoulders, the last thing I need is for straps to dig into my shoulders and this backpack really prevents that. I also love that it’s made for utility and for school, so I have features like a laptop pocket and sleeve, but it’s also waterproof. Above all, I really love that it’s made to last. I’ve put this backpack through hell over the past four years and it still works good as new,” said Sierra Walker (‘25) (Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L). Patagonia bags are made for long hikes and other strenuous activities, so it makes a lot of sense that they are made with great back and shoulder support.
“I have a Jansport and it’s ok, I have had it for a while and I like the color and aesthetic, but there are definitely better options for style and back comfort,” said Allison Cannon (‘28). Jansports are the usual go-to for most students of all ages, especially for high school and college. They are able to fit a lot of stuff a student may need but do not necessarily provide enough back support for those heavier items.
“I like the overall size and the aesthetic, but I wish the straps were comfier and the water bottle sleeves were more spacious,” said Ru Joshi (‘28) (Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L Logo). Like Jansport bags, Lululemon backpacks hold enough things in them but do not seem to provide enough support in other areas. One big con that these bags also have is some do not hold bigger water bottles, which is something many students need on their bags.
Even though everyone wants to know what the perfect bag is for the average college student, it is hard to answer this burning question. Many students have different needs like the amount of pocket space or how well a bag can support their back and shoulders.
It seems that, in the end, everyone has to find the bag that works best for them, not just one universally perfect backpack. Everyone has to go on their own journey to research what will be the best bag that will suit their individual needs as a college student.
Katie Germinder is a sophomore majoring in environmental studies and sustainability.
Featured image courtesy of Pexels.com.
