Jansport Backpacks Review 2021

People these days want modern and spacious backpacks. More precisely, they want something they can carry their laptop and notebooks in comfortably and securely. They also look for backpacks that suit their color and design requirements.

But the most important thing that matters the most in this scenario is the price tag. Most people would definitely like something that suits their pocket and looks cool as well, at the same time. This is where JanSport backpacks help you get a win-win situation.

They have a varied collection of backpacks that tick off the two very important A’s: affordable and attractive – and they make sure that their backpack offerings are not made of low-quality materials as well. What more could you ask for?

Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best Jansport backpack options available on the market. And if you are unsure of anything, please check out our buyer’s guide and answers to the most frequently asked questions at the end.

10 Best JanSport Backpacks Reviewed

Here are the best JanSport backpacks in the market with their features:

1. JanSport Big Student Backpack

Product Highlights

The backpack has an ergonomic S-shaped shoulder strap, which will provide comfort to the shoulders, even when the backpack gets really heavy. It has a utility pocket in the front with an organizer, which helps you in making your stuff stay organized throughout the day. It has a back panel that is fully padded as well, protecting the things inside from any external damage in any condition.

The backpack has a front stash pocket (pleated) and a water bottle side pocket in order to increase its organizational functions. The two main compartments present are large which can be used to keep most of the bulky stuff inside it. The compartments are very spacious and help you store a lot of things at once.

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The backpack also comes with a web haul handle and an entirely dedicated 15” padded laptop compartment where you can always keep your tablet or any other electronic gadget safely without having to worry about anything. To accessorize further, the backpack also has a zippered front stash pocket.

The Good/What I Like

The backpack comes with a varied range of colors and fabrics, that are bound to suit everyone’s taste. The different sizes of the compartments are incredible and make the product really desirable. The backpack also comes with a quick find cell phone pocket, which is extremely useful in case of urgencies.

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

The backpack looks really bulky, thus, reducing the sleek version that is really desirable to some. Also, the backpack does not have a pocket on the inside of the big compartment. The design is really plain and simple.

Pros:

• The backpack is durable, versatile, and functional
• The backpack looks cool and quirky
• The backpack has a lot of pockets

Cons:

• The backpack is oversized
• The fabric of the backpack is such that it may get caught in the zipper

2. JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack

Product Highlights

The backpack is made out of 100% polyester. The backpack has straight-cut padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a web haul handle: all of them giving it a lifted and more accessorized look. The fabric that the backpack is made up of is very durable.

The backpack also comes in a variety of zippers, straps, and designs to meet up to the requirements of everyone’s taste and choice. The backpack has a convenient and straightforward design, a spacious main compartment, and a front utility pocket with an organizer helping even the small stuff to stay in place when you’re traveling non-stop and barely have any time to organize your items. The backpack has a sturdy construction that is made to last for a long time.

The backpack comes in thirty different colors that are surely going to suit everyone’s personal choice. Also, the backpack features a classic silhouette which helps everyone get along with the ongoing trend. The capacity of the backpack is as good as twenty-five liters, and it weighs twelve ounces.

The Good/What I Like

The backpack is sturdy and not overly large, which makes it convenient in two ways: size and stability. The backpack is also available in neutral colors, which means all tastes in colors are being respected and reflected upon.

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

There is just one pocket outside and no separate compartment inside. Due to the material, the backpack is not very soft; it is kind of rough and uncomfortable when in contact with the skin.

Pros:

• The backpack is sturdy
• The backpack is available in so many designs and colors
• The backpack weighs less

Cons:

• The backpack is rough
• The backpack is mainly for sports and travel and not for everyday use

3. JanSport Driver 8 Rolling Backpack

Product Highlights

The backpack is made up of 600 denier polyester / 420 denier nylon. It has a zipper closure and a 15” padded sleeve, which keeps the laptop safe and secure from outside damage. The backpack also keeps any valuables safe at the front zipper pocket making it easier for you to reach them when you need it urgently.

The backpack has wheels and a retractable handle for ease of use when traveling. They are made with good quality, durable fabric, designs, zippers, and straps to reflect the style. The backpack has a front stash pocket, 80 mm inline skate wheels, a fully padded back panel, a front utility pocket with an organizer, and a grab handle that is padded.

All these features enhance the quality of the bag ten times more and make it a bag that you can use for almost everything: starting from going on your first trip abroad to going trekking for the first time.

It has two large main compartments, shoulder straps that tuck away for switching it to a backpack, and two side water bottle pockets just to make sure you never run out of juice.

The Good/What I Like

The backpack is sturdy and easy to move around with because the wheels help a lot in transporting the bag from one place to another without actually lifting it up using your hands. It is available in a variety of colors, meaning the options are more when it comes to choosing the right kind that suits you.

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

The wheels make the bag unnecessarily a little heavier than it usually would be. Also, while carrying the backpack, the wheels could be a problem leading to back pain.

Pros:

• Skid rails for added protection.
• Two-stage handle present.
• Quick grab handle for easy carrying.

Cons:

• Weighs 3kg.
• Added burden of wheels and handle while carrying as a backpack.

4. JanSport unisex-adult Digital Student Backpack

Product Highlights

It has ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps, a fully padded back panel, and a removable 15” laptop sleeve – all leading to the conclusion that this bag is an all-rounder among all the bags that JanSport produces.

The backpack has two large main compartments where most of the heavy stuff goes in. It also has a side water bottle pocket and organizational storage throughout, ensuring none of your precious and valuable items get disorganized at any point, thus, saving you from the excess headache of organizing them again.

The most amazing thing about the backpack is that it is flexible, making it easy to go everywhere and anywhere, and fits all purposes. One of the best things about this bag is that it is super roomy and makes it easier to pack stuff in it.

The Good/What I Like

The varied colors that the bags are available in, is commendable. The straps do a great job in the beginning; even when the bag is super heavy, they don’t tear off. However, they have been known to wear out.

It also has a tablet pocket which can easily store a 10” tablet and therefore makes it comfortable for you to carry it everywhere. So what are you waiting for? Take it on a cruise, if you like!

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

The backpacks should have had additional longitudinal compartments split into two. It can be a little hard to get into with the curve of the fabric around the zipper.

Pros:

• The straps are adjustable.
• A ton of space for books.
• Pockets are very deep.

Cons:

• The laptop sleeve is not extendable.
• The straps are not long-lasting.

5. JanSport Odyssey Backpack

Product Highlights

The hip belt and sternum strap tend to provide stability and comfort when going on longer treks.

The backpack has a deluxe utility pocket with an organizer, dual water bottle pockets, ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps, and an ice ax loop. The backpack, again, has quick access to loft pockets. It also consists of side compression straps and sternum straps that comfort you and save you from unnecessary strain.

The loops on the front of the bag are rubber, not fabric. The design and functionality of this bag are top-tier and can easily carry ten kilos of the stuff.

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The Good/What I Like

The two large main compartments and the tricot-lined tablet sleeve are an absolute win-win for anyone who buys the backpack.

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

The straps are not good at their job. They don’t distribute the load well, and as a result, it does not seem lighter. The bag is not waterproof (it might be slightly water repellant or hydrophobic though).

Pros:

• Versatile padded sleeve.
• 3L hydration system.
• It consists of a daisy chain.

Cons:

• Mesh pockets are absent.
• The fabric is almost see-through.

6. JanSport Agave Backpack

Product Highlights

Agave Backpacks are one of the most versatile backpacks currently available on the market. With features like double padded AirCore shoulder straps to ensure maximum comfort, padded haul handle on the top for easy lifting, dual side water bottle pockets with capacity up to 1L each to ensure you’re never short on beverages.

Agave Series is manufactured in 6 different colors and styles from simple to extra-fashionable, leaving the consumer with a wide variety of selections to choose from, which gives Agave an upper hand when compared to different series.

It also includes extra features like long-lasting zippers, external accessories pockets for ease of access, sternum straps, loft pockets, and a fully padded sleeve designed to fit a 15-inch Laptop. The overall capacity of the product is 32L.

The Good/What I Like

It is an eye-catching product that comes in various colors is a must-buy for fashion lovers. Are you worried about valuables getting wet in the rain? Worry no more because Agave has got your back with 100% water-resistant fabric, which protects our valuables even in heavy rain. This backpack is equipped with plenty of handy pockets for keeping accessories and a huge 32L capacity.

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

The product is remarkably pricey and is not suited for people on a low budget, and many reviews on the internet are revolving around the wearing of the product and internal stitching coming undone. The product is water-resistant, not waterproof, and for some, it might not be value for money.

Pros:

• 32L Capacity.
• Comes in 6 different styles and sizes
• Padded Sleeve, straps, and haul handle
• Water-resistant fabric

Cons:

• Expensive
• Prone to wear and tear

7. JanSport Mesh Pack Backpack

Product Highlights

JanSport Mesh backpacks are made from 100% polyester, which provides the durability it demands and comes in about 8 different colors so that it fulfills consumer preferences. This bag is specifically designed to carry books and stationery without putting any strain on the shoulders due to its lightweight body.

This backpack also includes an internal hanging pocket along with a front utility pocket though it does not include any water bottle pocket on either side of the bag. JanSport Mesh backpack is lightweight, but it is considered to be one of the most durable backpacks made by JanSport.

The Good/What I Like

The backpack is extremely durable and sturdy even when used in rough conditions, so it is preferred by most parents for their teenage schoolgoers. It comes in various sizes and colors, and it is one of the most fashionable and trendy bags on the market. Most of the schools demand a clear bag that requires the inner content to be visible nowadays, which makes this bag a perfect grab.

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

This Mesh Backpack is loaded with peculiar features, but there are some significant aspects that many of the consumers might not like. Such as the bag, due to the mesh design, is very open, which means it is not water or dust resistant. The bag also has fewer pockets compared to other backpacks on the market, which makes it less preferable by many. The product is liked by many for the design, but the overall shape of the bag is awkward.

Pros:

• Makes the inner content visible
• Extremely lightweight and easy to carry
• Comes in various colors

Cons:

• The size is too large
• Neither waterproof nor dustproof

8. JanSport Half Pint Mini Backpack

Product Highlights

JanSport Half Pint backpack is a unisex backpack that comes in a simple black color making it one of the most versatile backpacks on the market. The size of the backpack is small, as the name half-pint suggests, but the bag is exceptionally roomy inside and could fit all the necessities like a wallet, sunglasses, water bottle, mobile phone chargers, and sunscreen.

This backpack is made with 100% polyester, which makes it extremely durable and long-lasting even if used in rough conditions like camping or a day on a beach. The overall capacity of the miniature backpack is 10.2L, and it includes a roomy main compartment along with a front utility pocket, adjustable straps, and a small haul handle.

The Good/What I Like

The best thing about having a JanSport miniature backpack is that it can be taken anywhere without any hassle, unlike the regular backpacks, which are known to cause shoulder sprain.

The backpack is fabricated with denier polyester, which makes it perfect for outdoor rush activities, and the 10.2 L capacity is impressive for its size.

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

JanSport miniature backpacks might be good-looking and stylish, but there are some aspects of the bag which consumers are missing. These include things such as a side pocket for water bottles, which is extremely necessary for outdoor tours, and small vanity pockets, which come extremely handy as well. The miniature backpack is also a bit pricey considering its small size. Consumers also prefer leather backpacks over polyester ones.

Pros:

• Miniature backpack with plenty of room
• Fabricated with polyester
• Unisex

Cons:

• No water bottle pockets are given
• Expensive

9. JanSport Unisex Hatchet Backpack

Product Highlights

JanSport Hatchet backpacks are extremely tough and resistant to wear and tear, and it fulfills the fashion aspect as well with their elegant style and a vast range of available colors. The product is made with 600 denier polyester along with a bonded leather trim, which makes your travel experience to another level.

The backpack is also loaded with features like multiple water bottle pockets, a padded laptop sleeve for your electronics, organizing panels, and a huge top-load compartment for all the essentials. JanSport also offers a 100% replacement on this product if the bag breaks or if the stitches come undone.

The Good/What I Like

This bag is particularly designed for traveling, which makes it perfect for the price and value. One more feature of this bag is that it’s loaded with advanced features like padded phone pockets, padded laptop sleeves, and leather trim, which makes sure your valuables are stored safely while you explore the world. It also comes in 14 different styles and colors so that consumers can go for just the right product.

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

It’s extremely difficult to point out mistakes in an all-rounder backpack like the JanSport Hatchet backpack. It does have some limitations like it’s not entirely waterproof inside out, which means consumers should be cautious with any spillage around the backpack.

Also, this backpack is a bit bulky and heavyweight, and last but not least, the backpack does not have a trolley feature, which means no matter what, consumers need to carry it on their shoulders all the time.

Pros:

• Durable and sturdy
• Includes padded mobile cover and laptop sleeve
• Value for money
• Unisex

Cons:

• Heavyweight and bulky
• Does not include a trolley

10. JanSport Right Pack

Product Highlights

JanSport Right Pack Laptop backpacks are fabricated with Denier Cordura fabric along with 100% genuine leather bottom, which makes it perfect for keeping your brittle electronic gadgets safe.

The main compartment consists of a 15-inch padded laptop sleeve along with a chamber. This product comes in more than 15 different colors, so consumers do not have to worry about style anymore. The best part about this all-rounder product is that it can be used by anyone, from a school going teen to a workaholic.

The Good/What I Like

JanSport laptop backpack is designed to give the ultimate comfort to your electronics as it uses a premium fabric along with 100% leather. It is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and safety. The sleeves are padded with memory foam, and the stitches are incredibly rigid. Though it is a laptop backpack, it is also user-friendly with firmly padded shoulder straps and a comfortable top haul.

The Bad/What I Don’t Like

One of the significant drawbacks of this product is that it does not have any side pockets for water bottles, and the product is not entirely waterproof, which might cause trouble during heavy rainfall. The backpack has fewer pockets compared to other laptop backpacks in the market.

Pros:

• Padded sleeve and leather bottom
• Lifetime guarantee
• Available in 15+ colors

Cons:

• No side pockets for water bottle
• The front haul is not padded

Information about the Brand

Jansport, Inc. is the leading producer  and designer of backpacks, which includes laptop bags, shoulder bags, and luggage. It was founded in 1967. In 1986, the company became a branch of the VF Corporation. The principal division Eastpak was acquired, as they entered into the new century, in 2000.

It was in 2004 when JanSport also started manufacturing clothes, designed by another subsidiary, The North Face (San Francisco-based), which resulted in innovation entering now. In the fall of the same year, the lines of traditional and snowsports accessories and outerwear were launched, with steps and plans to add tents and sleeping bags.

Types of JanSport Backpacks

Following are the different types of Jansport backpacks:

Laptop

The laptop backpacks start from a range to $50 to $100. They, clearly, are affordable and very attractive. The laptop sleeve size is 15” and holds the laptop pretty securely. These backpacks have internal organizations which lead to a very organized space inside the backpack. They also have two large compartments and water bottle pockets. One of the best things about these bags is that they are lightweight.

Campus

The campus backpacks are available in the price range from $36 to $110. The backpack is very much worth the price that is being paid for it. They are available in small, medium, and large sizes. They are also available in a variety of designs, colors, and prints, suiting everyone’s choice and taste. Laptop sleeves, water bottle pockets, and large compartments are present here as well.

Commute

The best thing about these bags is that they are available at a variety of prices. They range from $17 to $130. The difference in price does not refer to the difference in quality but the difference in features available in backpacks. These backpacks are also available in crossbody and sling models making them suitable for both occasions. They are affordable, lightweight, and come in a variety of colors and designs.

Travel

These backpacks come in a variety of colors, designs, shapes, and models. From miny bags to fanny packs, JanSport has all sorts of travel bags in its collection. They have two large compartments to store all the travel essentials. They are pretty light to carry and do not make any hassle when it gets a little heavy. These bags cost from $30 to $115. They have water bottle pockets and 15” laptop sleeves as well.

Outdoor

These bags are really sturdy and fashionable. Their shape fits perfectly with the shape of your back and gives it a cool outlook. They come in small, medium, and large sizes, making them suitable for all kinds of purposes.

These backpacks have internal organizations making way for the small stuff like keys, jewelry, etc. they have crossbody and sling models as well, thus widening the vision for choices. They also come with laptop sleeves and water bottle pockets, making it more compartmentalized.

What Things to Look for When Buying a JanSport Backpack

Now, the four most important things that you must look for while buying a JanSport backpack include:

Laptop sleeve

You should always look for a backpack that is equipped with a removable and padded laptop sleeve. The size of the sleeve that you must look for should depend on the size of the laptop you own. Also, here, not only your laptop but also our tablet gets taken care of as the concerned sleeve serves the same purpose for both of the electronic gadgets.

Organization

You must go for the backpack that has a large storage capacity. It is always easier to put stuff in the backpack when it is large (we all agree with the mantra, ‘the larger, the better, right?). In order to ensure nothing pokes your back, you can look for backpacks that have an ergonomic S-shaped shoulder strap.

It saves your shoulders from unnecessary poking and, as a result, the backpack becomes user-friendly as well. You may also look for a key clip in your backpack so that your keys can be secure and safe, and be away from electronic gadgets. There is this other thing called the sternum strap, which helps in holding the strap of the backpack securely and makes sure it does not slip off your shoulder accidentally, therefore saving you from unnecessary pain.

In case you want a bag when you are going hiking, you should definitely look out for the tuck-away hip belt. It makes the whole hiking process a lot easier by providing you with the right comfort that you need while hiking.

Pockets

You must check whether the backpack has external pockets. Especially ones that are exclusively designed to carry your cords and chargers, so that you don’t ever have to stress about running out of charge for your laptop or tablet or any other electronics that you might be carrying.

Also, very importantly, you must search for side water bottle pockets in the backpack that you are going to buy, in order to save up space inside the actual pack where you can put other essentials. You can also look for multi zippered front pockets for your pens, sunglasses, wallets, and what not to store.

Durability

JanSport mainly produces backpacks that are made out of polyester. This makes them cheaper than the backpacks of other brands. But the mistake that people tend to make here is that they assume that the bag will fall apart in a month because of its cheap material.

This is not true at all, and it is proven by the fact that a durable polyester variant is used to make the backpacks. Hence, be sure to check out the material the backpack is made out of in order to be sure that it is durable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the laptop sleeve detachable in JanSport laptop backpacks? Which one is better?

No, the laptop sleeves are not detachable in JanSport backpacks laptop bags edition, the padded sleeves are stitched into the inner body of the bag. The consumers prefer both of them, but it might be a hassle to maintain a detachable sleeve backpack because the padded foam may come out easily.

What is the difference between white on black and black on white color?

The white on black design means that the main color of the backpack is white with a few black designs or patterns on it, and black on white means a black bag with a few white areas

Can JanSport bags be replaced if the stitch comes out?

Yes, JanSport provides a 100% replacement on almost all of their products, but not all. Consumers are advised to check the warranty information before buying any JanSport product.

How to maintain a hatchet backpack?

Hatchet backpacks are not so hard to maintain as these backpacks are incredibly sturdy and durable, but there are some things to keep in mind like:

• Don’t keep the bag near high-temperature spots(like a campfire)
• These backpacks are not fully water-resistant so be careful with the spillage
• Keep it out of reach of sharp objects

Which material is better and more durable, leather, or polyester?

Leather is much more durable and long-lasting, but a full leather backpack could turn out to be expensive for consumers, so polyester works as a good substitute for leather in terms of durability.

Is it safe to wash polyester backpacks in the washing machine with detergent?

Yes, it is safe to wash polyester-based backpacks in the washing machine using detergent, but it is advised to manually wash it for better results.

Is it safe to wash leather backpacks in the washing machine with detergent?

No, leather backpacks are not to be put inside a washing machine as they may get damaged by the water and detergent. If you want to clean your leather backpack, always prefer a dry clean.

How to identify if the backpack is overloaded?

Backpacks are easy to identify when they are overloaded or overstuffed. Some of the significant signs are that the bag will look bulky and rounded in shape rather than the actual shape of the bag. Corners will not be easily identified, and the zips could not be operated smoothly. Overstuffing backpacks could undo the stitches of the backpack.

What is the difference between a padded shoulder strap and a non-padded shoulder strap?

A bag with padded shoulder straps is highly suggested for the consumers as the memory foam in the padding reduces the stress on the shoulder up to 90%. A bag without proper padding can turn out to be very dangerous because excess weight and stress can cause severe muscle strain.

What type of backpack is suggested to carry on a road trip?

A hatchet backpack is highly suggested to carry on a road trip. It consists of all the factors important for a road trip like :

• Large capacity
• laptop sleeve
• Water bottle pockets

What is the average price of a JanSport backpack for a school-going teen?

JanSport backpacks are considered to be pricey, but almost all the backpacks have a lifetime warranty, which makes the purchase worth it. The average price of a school-going teenager backpack would be $50, but it depends mainly on the design and features.

How to maintain a leather backpack?

Leather backpacks are expensive, which makes it extremely hard to maintain. Some of the Do’s and Don’ts of a leather backpack are given below:

Do’s:

• Keep in a dry place when not using
• Keep it out of reach of cosmetic products
• Dry clean at least once a month

Don’ts:

• Do not twist, bend, or fold it.
• Avoid overstuffing as it might develop wrinkles.

Conclusion

JanSport backpacks have been famous for a long time now. The reason behind it being their durability. All of the backpacks on our list above can be washed by hand and can also be spot cleaned using a wet cloth and a hand wash. Since they are water-resistant, no external harm will be done to the backpack.

Also, on a different note, JanSport backpacks always come with a lot of compartments, and people tend to choose bags with more compartments easily. They are incredibly sturdy, and water-, abrasion-, and fade resistant. The most attractive feature of JanSport backpacks is, undoubtedly, the fact that they have bags for all occasions and all purposes. That’s rare!