Backpacks have come a long way during the last century. Kids used to carry their books with leather straps, after all, and according to an NPR timeline, backpacks made specifically for books didn't exist until the mid-1970s.
Today, with the shift to laptops and electronics, students don't even necessarily carry textbooks. But backpacks are still considered a necessity, and summer's Back to School sales offer a prime opportunity to shop for cheap book bags.
Whether you're searching for clearance backpacks or top-of-the-line bags, our comprehensive guide can help you buy a backpack for your elementary, middle, or high school student.
Backpack Features to Look For
Sturdy Zippers
When shopping for a backpack for any age group, consider zipper quality. Keep in mind that chain zippers are stronger and harder to break into than coil zippers, according to Consumer Reports. While chain zippers have two sets of interlocking teeth that are usually made of metal, a coil zipper "slides on two parallel coils usually made of polyester," CR notes.
Water Bottle Pockets
Water bottle pockets are a relatively...
