Best Back-to-School Backpacks for Outdoors-y Kids

For most school-aged kids, the end of summer means the end of daily adventures in the great outdoors. But fear not young adventurers, the end of summer doesn’t mean the end of exploring; it just means the adventures will start looking a little different. 

To get kids geared up for back to school and the educational adventures that lie ahead, here are some great back-to-school backpacks for outdoors-y kids.

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For Young Adventurers

When you’re adventuring with littles, they carry significantly less gear than you do, but that doesn’t mean they should get a free pass on carrying any gear at all. Kikki has an adorable line of backpacks that will empower your kids to feel like the brave backpackers they are—in nature or in the classroom. Whether they want a tiger, dragon, or bear, there are eight awesome critters to choose from. 

If they’re looking to feel a little more grown up and want a backpack more like Mom’s or Dad’s, IVYGREEN makes great packs for toddlers going to preschool and heading out on camping trips on the weekends. They’re water-resistant, making them great for youngins’ who often spill or make messes. 

Another great option for kids are the MOUNTAINTOP water-resistant backpacks that can help relieve pressure on a child’s back, so they don’t feel sore at the end of their school day or their adventures.

For Kids Who Need Something a Little More Sturdy

As kids get older, they’re going to get more homework and have more activities that require gear. On the days when they have to go from the classroom to the dance studio to the basketball court, make sure they’re prepped and ready with a pack that has enough space for everything they might need. 

The Surprise Pack from Cotopaxi offers ergonomic straps so your little one won’t get stiff and tired running from activity to activity. It also features a sleeve inside the bag to hold a laptop or a hydration reservoir, depending on where they’re going next.

REI Co-Op’s frameless, recycled nylon backpack is made for kids ages eight to 12. Though it says this pack is for hiking, it’ll make a great backpack for school too, with its 18-liter capacity. The backpack has a space for a water bladder that can be used to separate items for easy organization (And when you have busy kids, keeping them organized is a must). 

The Refugito day pack from Patagonia is similar to the REI Co-Op backpack and has the same capacity. With tech-compatible storage slots, this backpack will help keep your kids ready for school or for hiking trails. 

For Teens . . . or for Mom and Dad

Teens tend to be incredibly busy with school and extracurriculars. They’ve also got the added stress of trying to build a college resume to get into their dream school. Don’t get them a backpack that’s going to put more pressure on them—literally. 

REI Co-Op’s Trail 25 pack offers a specific fit for both men and women, and it will be more comfortable than the traditional school backpack. The extra padding on the straps will help keep them cool and comfortable during their busy days.
If you or your kid are looking for a more unique backpack to take from school to trails, check out the Fieldsmith Roll-Top Backpack from Patagonia. The rolling top is adjustable to suit the wearer’s needs, depending on the day. This 30-liter backpack is one-size-fits-all and makes for an excellent backpack for busy days.

Source: https://outdoors.com/back-to-school-adventure-backpacks/