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What Are the Best Bags and Backpacks for Uni?

At Kipling, we design bags to help university students Live Light on and off campus. Whether you study art or science, drama or sport, you need a bag with the space and functionality to carry you through the year and beyond.

Finding the perfect backpack for uni can feel like a challenge, with countless bags and backpacks to choose from. That's why we've put together this guide to the best backpacks for uni students to help you pick out your new college companion.

What Should I Look for in a Uni Backpack?

When searching for the best backpack for uni, there are a few key things to look out for. While there are many good backpacks for university students, your ideal backpack will have the right space, comfort and style.

Read on to learn more about the features to look for in the best type of bag for university students.

  • Storage

    The bag's volume ensures you have enough space. However, the storage and compartments provide the organisation you need to keep your belongings in check. If you tend to carry lots of small items, look for a backpack with multiple pockets and compartments. If you carry a few bigger items, like books and pencil cases, a tote bag with a roomy main compartment could be just right.

  • Size

    The best uni backpack for you should provide the space you need for your study and extracurricular essentials. Some students only require a compact bag with space for their pencil case, notes and a water bottle. However, some students need large bags with room for bulky textbooks, art supplies and more.

  • Durability

    Good quality backpacks for university are a must for savvy students. The bag you carry to lectures and seminars needs to be high-quality and resilient. After all, you'll be using it almost every day, so it should be able to resist general wear and tear. Many of our Kipling designs feature durable nylon, which is hard-wearing without weighing you down. Durability? Check.

  • Style

    Every student wants to look and feel good during their studies, so you should pick out a bag that expresses your personal style. Choose from many colours, prints and fabric styles to find a bag that complements your wardrobe and shows off your personality. With Kipling, you can personalise your bag with a cute accessory, like one of our signature Monkey key chains.

  • Comfort

    When looking for the best women's backpack for university, cute backpacks look good and function even better, but how do they feel when you carry them? As a busy student, you may be carrying your bag for hours per day, so it should feel snug. Whether you go for a backpack or tote bag, the weight distribution of your belongings should feel balanced and comfortable.

Best Tote Bags for University Students

Great uni bags are not limited to backpacks. While backpacks are a popular and practical option, many students opt for a tote bag or shoulder bag to accompany them in their studies.

Go hands-free with a tote bag and haul your uni gear in comfort with the shoulder straps. Tote bags are versatile, making them ideal for class, extracurricular activities and weekend plans.

  • Colissa Up

    The Colissa Up is one of our best tote bags for university students. This large bag can hold A4 documents and has a built-in tech sleeve for 15-inch devices and a dedicated pen compartment. It also features two carry handles and a built-in key leash for on-the-go organisation.

  • Art M

    The Art M tote bag is one of our best handbags for university students who require a medium-size bag for their studies. It has a trolley strap that attaches it to luggage, making it ideal for commuting from home to uni. Organise your most valuable items in the multiple pockets and built-in key fob.

How To Choose Your Handbag for Uni

Choosing the best uni backpack or handbag for your style and needs is a personal choice. To get started, consider whether you would prefer a backpack or a tote bag. This all comes down to your carrying and comfort preferences.

Then, you can use our handy search filters to select the features, such as laptop compartments, bottle holders and security pockets. Once you've decided on a bag style, the fun part begins! Now, you can choose a cute colour or expressive pattern that you love.

Do I Need a Laptop Sleeve in My Uni Bag?

So, do you need a uni backpack with a laptop compartment? There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It depends on your study style and day-to-day needs.

If you study a subject that requires the use of a laptop or tablet, then a backpack with a built-in padded laptop sleeve is essential. It will keep your tech safe from bumps and scratches on the go and save you from having to carry your laptop in a separate bag.

If you tend to carry your personal laptop around campus or keep it with you while commuting, consider a laptop bag for university students.

  • Seoul

    Our iconic Kipling backpack is a large laptop backpack with smart organisation. It includes a protective 15-inch tech sleeve and a mobile phone pouch. It also features a pen loop for your stationery and a pocket for your wallet or bus pass. The roomy main compartment has space for your lunch bag and other essential gear.

  • Hanifa

    This large tote bag for work has a zippered main compartment and two long carry handles. It features a separate tech compartment for your 13-inch laptop and several pockets for your study essentials.

Find Your Perfect Bag for University With Kipling

Are you ready to head back to class in style? Browse our extensive collection of study backpacks online and find your new go-to companion for the next study year and beyond. Discover designs in more than 30 different colours and prints and pick out a bag that looks as good as it feels and functions.

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