Finding the right backpack online is easy, but sometimes you need to try it on. Visit your local Academy Sports + Outdoors to feel the materials, test the zippers, and have one of our team members help you get the perfect fit. You can also order online and enjoy fast, free Pick Up at a store near you.
If you're gearing up for another school year, planning a weekend trip, or hitting the trail, then Academy has the perfect backpack you need for your next adventure. We carry a huge selection of durable backpacks from top brands like JanSport, The North Face, and Magellan Outdoors, ensuring you find the right fit, function, and style. From school backpacks with laptop sleeves to rugged hunting packs, we've got your back.
How to Choose the Right Backpack
Finding the right backpack can make any journey more comfortable. Whether you're carrying textbooks across campus or gear through the woods, this guide will help you decide.
What is the best type of backpack for my activity?
The best backpack is designed for its primary use. A school backpack prioritizes organization and device protection, while a hiking pack focuses on comfort and weight distribution for long-distance wear.
For School + Campus: Look for multiple compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, and durable polyester or nylon fabric.
For Travel: Choose a carry-on size backpack (around 40L) with easy-to-access pockets and lockable zippers.
For Hiking: Prioritize a lightweight design with a supportive hip belt, a hydration-ready reservoir sleeve, and a ventilated back panel.
For Hunting + Tactical Use: Select a pack with MOLLE webbing for attachments, quiet materials, and a frame designed to carry heavy loads.
How do I choose a backpack for hot, humid weather?
Prioritize ventilation: Look for a pack with a ventilated back panel.
Airflow features: Seek out suspended mesh or rigid foam channels.
Key benefits: These designs allow air to flow between your back and the bag, which reduces sweat and increases comfort.
Is an expensive backpack really worth it?
Long-term value: Higher-priced backpacks often offer better durability, comfort, and specialized features.
Budget-friendly use: More affordable backpacks are a great choice for daily commutes or light use.
Performance investment: For serious hiking, travel, or hunting, the cost is justified by high-denier fabrics, reinforced stitching, and advanced suspension systems.
Different adventures call for different gear. Our collection is organized in a way that you can easily find the backpack with the right features for your day.
School + Campus Backpacks
Built to handle the daily grind, school backpacks combine classic style with modern function. Key features include padded 15” or 17” laptop compartments, water bottle pockets, and organizer panels for pens and essentials. Durable fabrics ensure they last from the first day of school to final exams.
Travel + Carry-On Backpacks
Make your journey smoother with a dedicated travel backpack. Sized to meet most airline carry-on requirements, these backpacks often feature clamshell openings for easy packing, TSA-friendly laptop compartments, and hidden pockets for security. They offer the portability of a backpack with the capacity of a small suitcase.
Hiking + Daypacks
Engineered for comfort on the move, hiking daypacks are lightweight, supportive, and ready for the elements. Look for features like adjustable chest and hip straps to distribute weight, compatibility with hydration reservoirs, and external loops for trekking poles or gear.
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