Joybuy Insights

Buying a backpack: how to choose a practical model for school, work or travel

Buying a backpack seems straightforward until you have to choose between dozens of sizes, materials and designs. A bag may look spacious, but in practice it might not have enough room for A4 folders. A laptop compartment may appear suitable for a 15.6-inch laptop, while its internal dimensions aren’t specified. Terms such as “waterproof”, “ergonomic” and “extra strong” aren’t always explained either.

This guide helps you compare backpacks based on specifications you can check. That way, you can find the right model for a child, school pupil, student, commuter, sports enthusiast or traveller.

Three pitfalls to avoid when buying a backpack

1. A large-looking bag doesn’t automatically have lots of storage space

Check the capacity in litres and the dimensions. A compact children’s backpack with a capacity of 5.7 or 6.7 litres is suitable for a lunchbox, a few small school items and toys, but not for several A4 folders. For a school backpack, a capacity of around 20 litres or more is often more practical if you need to carry books, a water bottle and a lunchbox.

Check the layout too. A main compartment with one large section may be spacious, but smaller pockets help keep keys, chargers and school essentials organised.

2. “Water-resistant” doesn’t mean completely waterproof

A water-resistant backpack can help repel light rain or splashes. That doesn’t mean it will keep out heavy rain for a long time, protect your belongings if it’s submerged or withstand a wet environment. So check whether the product information describes the bag as water-resistant, water-repellent or waterproof.

A rain cover can be useful if you cycle every day. A padded laptop compartment is also important in a laptop backpack, but it doesn’t replace waterproof protection. If you’re unsure, put your electronics in a separate protective case.

3. A comfortable design won’t automatically prevent overloading

A backpack with padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel or a supposedly ergonomic design may be more comfortable to carry. However, comfort also depends on the fit, how you adjust the straps and the weight of the contents.

Look for:

  • adjustable shoulder straps that don’t dig into your neck;
  • a back panel that sits securely against your back;
  • a handle for carrying the bag over short distances;
  • a weight that’s suitable for the person carrying it;
  • a wide opening, so you don’t have to force too much into the bag.

Important specifications to check before buying a backpack

Size and laptop compatibility

A 15.6-inch laptop backpack shouldn’t just state the laptop size it can accommodate. Check the dimensions of the laptop compartment too, and compare them with your own laptop. A case, bulky design or charging accessories may take up extra room.

For school, A4 compatibility, a separate laptop compartment and a side pocket for a water bottle are useful features. For commuting, a separate document pocket, easy access to your phone and keys, and possibly a luggage strap can come in handy.

Weight and capacity

A lightweight backpack reduces the bag’s own weight when you carry it every day. According to the product information, the KONO Dinosaur Print Backpack weighs 0.49 kg and has space for a laptop up to 15.3 inches. The KONO Water Resistant Lightweight Laptop Backpack also has a stated weight of 0.49 kg and is designed for a laptop up to 15.6 inches.

Don’t compare capacity in litres alone: consider the shape too. A slim bag can be handy on busy public transport, while a deeper model offers more room for sportswear or travel essentials.

Material and care

Polyester and Oxford fabric are commonly used for everyday bags. Check whether the backpack can be cleaned with a damp cloth or is hand-wash only. On some models, bleach, tumble drying or ironing may damage the print and coating.

Durable material is useful, but check the zips, seams, base and shoulder straps too. For intensive use, reinforced areas and clear care instructions matter more than a marketing term such as “heavy-duty”.

Our recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
KONO Dinosaur Print Backpack, 15.3 Inch Lightweight Casual Student Rucksack Black

KONO Dinosaur Print Backpack, 15.3 Inch Lightweight Casual Student Rucksack Black

Why it suits this profile: This lightweight backpack is designed for school, leisure and everyday use. Its stated capacity provides space for a laptop up to 15.3 inches, A4 magazines and accessories.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that it weighs 0.49 kg and describes separate compartments for a laptop, small items and a water bottle. Check that the laptop size is right for your own device.

Key benefit and features

0.49 kg, laptop compartment for devices up to 15.3 inches, two side pockets and padded shoulder straps.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
KONO Water Resistant Lightweight Laptop Backpack

KONO Water Resistant Lightweight Laptop Backpack

Why it suits this profile: A practical choice for work, school and travel if you need a laptop compartment, a low carry weight and protection from light rain.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The water-resistant finish isn’t described as fully waterproof, so it’s clear that extra protection may be needed in heavy rain.

Key benefit and features

0.49 kg, laptop compartment for devices up to 15.6 inches, space for A4 documents and padded, adjustable straps.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent use
PUMA Phase Backpack Black-Gold-No.1 Unisex

PUMA Phase Backpack Black-Gold-No.1 Unisex

Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for everyday use by adults and older children, with space for school, work, sport or a short trip.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The capacity is clearly stated as 22 litres, with a main compartment, front pocket and side pocket. This makes it easier to judge whether there’s enough space for books, sportswear and everyday essentials.

Key benefit and features

22-litre capacity, dimensions of 44 x 30 x 14 cm, padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply with the current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying a backpack

What capacity is suitable for a school backpack?

A compact children’s backpack may be enough for young children to carry a lunchbox and a few other items. School pupils and students often need around 20 to 25 litres, especially if they carry A4 books, a laptop and sportswear. Always check the dimensions of the main compartment as well as the stated capacity in litres.

How long does a backpack usually last?

A backpack’s lifespan depends on the weight it carries, how often it’s used, exposure to rain, the zips and how well it’s maintained. A bag that’s regularly overloaded will wear out faster, even if it’s made from durable material. Use the stated capacity as a guide, clean the bag according to the care instructions, and check the seams and shoulder straps regularly.

Which backpack is suitable for work and travel?

Look for a backpack for work and travel with a padded laptop compartment, space for A4 documents, several compartments and comfortable straps. A luggage strap can be useful at a railway station or airport. If you often cycle in the rain, remember that water-resistant doesn’t mean fully waterproof, and consider taking a rain cover with you.