[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”em”]Our team independently chose these products. If you click on a product link, we may earn a commission. Learn more here.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Backpacks are a secure way of carrying supplies for your coursework, a laptop or tablet, snacks, and water to get you through the day. But carrying a poorly constructed backpack can lead to back, neck, and shoulder pain.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Although they are necessary for nursing students, backpacks can also be used for adventure and freedom. The best backpacks for nursing students are those that can become an indispensable part of everyday life. They should move seamlessly from nursing school to travel, then as you enter the workforce.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We asked former nursing students and nurses what they thought were the best backpacks for nursing students. Find their answers in this article, along with the pros and cons of each one they recommended.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The 5 Best Backpacks for Nursing Students[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Here are five nursing backpacks recommended by former students and current nurses, that will help you [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/applying-to-nursing-school/”]get through your nursing program[/hen-ui-link] and beyond.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, like nursing programs, there is no “one-size-fits-all” backpack. Purchasing a high-quality backpack can save you from pain, but it can be a sizable investment. Take the time to read through the descriptions and pros and cons of each backpack before making your decision.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]1. Herschel Thompson Backpacks[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Beth Hawkes is a nurse, speaker, and writer. After trying several backpacks as a nursing student, she settled on the Herschel backpack as her favorite. “They have an incredible lifespan. They really last forever and are more premium and stylish than any other brand,” she says.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Herschel backpacks come in a range of prices to fit nearly every budget, from $32-$450. There is a range of designs in the mid-price range, from $69-$89. The [hen-ui-link href=”https://amzn.to/3avWf3G”]Thompson Backpack[/hen-ui-link] costs about $75 and is made of a heavy-weight base fabric and recycled material.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There is space for a 15-inch laptop, contoured shoulder straps, and zippered lid pocket. An internal key clip can make it easier to find your keys quickly and dual water side pockets ensure you’ll stay hydrated.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]2. Osprey Aether 65 Men’s Backpacks[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid][These backpacks are] perfect for long hikes and outdoor adventures,” he says.[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Kelly recommends the [hen-ui-link href=”https://amzn.to/3IvZS67″]Aether 65 Men’s Backpack[/hen-ui-link]. It sells for between $285-$400, depending on your size preference. Both sizes are designed to hold up to 60 pounds.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The backpack comes with a rain cover and floating top lid. The fabric is reinforced with upper and lower compression straps and a design to provide close-to-body contact to manage heavier loads. This backpack can easily maneuver your school supplies and a weekend camping trip.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]3. JanSport Backpacks[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Kelly thinks the JanSport backpacks are perfect for everyday use. JanSport backpacks range in price from $15-$85. The [hen-ui-link href=”https://amzn.to/3AH3obX”]Main Campus FX Backpack[/hen-ui-link] was designed with college students in mind and costs between $50-$55.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It has room for large books and several compartments to organize your supplies. The backpack is available in several colors. It features S-curve shoulder straps, a fully padded back panel, and a laptop compartment with dual side water pockets.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The square design is perfect to fit books, and the compression straps keep everything in place.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]4. Tumi Backpacks[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The cost of Tumi backpacks starts at around $300. They have several designs for students—including the [hen-ui-link href=”https://amzn.to/3RrtB4b”]Carson Backpack[/hen-ui-link] which comes in three colors, has a pocket for your tablet, and zippered compartment for a 15-inch laptop. This backpack is likely for the student who has gone paperless since there is little room for books.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.tumi.com/p/bina-backpack-0142366T519/”]Bina Backpack[/hen-ui-link] is made of nylon and offers a double-zip entry to the main compartment. The laptop compartment can accommodate a 15-inch computer. There is a quick-access phone pocket and a water-resistant water bottle pocket. And the mouth of the backpack is large enough to accommodate books.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://amzn.to/3c6wwPQ”]Hartford Backpack[/hen-ui-link] is sleek and stylish with a separate laptop compartment, quick-access phone pocket, and water bottle pocket you can access from inside or outside the bag.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]5. Matein Travel Laptop Backpacks[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://amzn.to/3RDFwfJ”]Matein Travel Laptop Backpack[/hen-ui-link] is less expensive than the other backpacks on this list, costing between $30-$70 depending on the size. There is enough space for books and a laptop. It also features a USB charging cable and back support with a ventilated pad. The adjustable straps reduce the strain on your back.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The backpack comes in many colors and two sizes. The smaller version accommodates a 15.6-inch laptop and the larger version fits a 17-inch laptop. The design also includes an antitheft back pocket and dual elastic side water bottle pockets.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular MSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Tips for Buying a Backpack for Nursing Students[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It pays to do your homework when you’re searching for the best nursing backpacks. You may have to compromise on one or two factors as you’re looking for a backpack that can accommodate your needs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For example, you might find one that has the size and durability to go the distance, but it may not be as stylish as you hoped. Should you purchase a less expensive backpack that may last two years with daily use or a more expensive one that could last six? Only you can answer these questions.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As you’re searching for a backpack, consider:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cost[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Style[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Durability[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Size and storage room[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Padding to protect your laptop[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pockets and compartments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accessibility[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Security[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Weight distribution[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Strap adjustability[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Waterproof[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Backpacks are essential for nursing students who need to carry several items to class. Many of the criteria you evaluate in the backpack you choose are optional. However, remember to choose one that is comfortable to carry and doesn’t add stress or strain to your shoulders and back.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]No matter how good it looks or how much it carries, if it hurts to carry it will likely end up at the back of the closet.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Meet Our Contributors[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”][hen-ui-expert-bio name=”Beth Hawkes, MSN, RN-BC (AKA Nurse Beth)” img-src=”https://res.cloudinary.com/highereducation/image/upload/e_grayscale,c_fill,h_300,w_300,g_face/v1659033771/NurseJournal.org/Headshots/beth-hawkes.jpg” img-alt=”Beth Hawkes, MSN, RN-BC (AKA Nurse Beth)” layout=”horizontal” background=”white” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ slot=”contentRight” class=”text-base”]As a speaker and writer, Nurse Beth helps nurses at every step in their careers through her award-winning blog, [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.nursecode.com/” target=”_blank”]nursecode.com[/hen-ui-link], freelance writing, and as a career columnist at AllNurses.com. She authored “Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job” to give nurses the ultimate insider guide to landing the job of their dreams.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”][hen-ui-expert-bio name=”Tom Kelly” img-src=”https://res.cloudinary.com/highereducation/image/upload/e_grayscale,c_fill,h_300,w_300,g_face/v1659033771/NurseJournal.org/Headshots/tom-kelly.jpg” img-alt=”Tom Kelly” layout=”horizontal” background=”white” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ slot=”contentRight” class=”text-base”]Tom Kelly was a nursing student, but he found his true passion in helping people prepare for retirement. He started a blog and business called [hen-ui-link href=”https://lifepart2.com/” target=”_blank”]Life Part 2[/hen-ui-link] to help people make the most of their retirement years. He loves sharing his knowledge and helping people enjoy their golden years.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex]