From a $45 JanSport to a $280 Peak Design: the 5 everyday backpacks worth carrying

The Daylite Plus hits a sweet spot for daily carry. At 20 liters, it holds a laptop, lunch and a jacket without feeling bulky, and Osprey's padded mesh back panel and shoulder straps stay comfortable on long walks. Two side water bottle pockets and an internal sleeve keep things organized.

It's also versatile: the Daylite Plus works as a day hiking pack, a travel personal item and a commuter bag. Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee covers repairs for damage, and owners frequently mention how long their bags last. The trade-off is a sporty look and modest laptop padding, so use a sleeve for expensive machines.

The SuperBreak has been a school staple for generations, and the SuperBreak One updates it with a padded back panel and recycled fabric. It has one big main compartment, a front zip pocket and comfortable straps for a bag this inexpensive.

JanSport's lifetime warranty is a major part of the value, and owners often report bags lasting for years. It comes in dozens of colors and prints. The trade-offs are limited organization and minimal padding, so it's best for light loads and smaller laptops. Shopping for a student? Pair it with one of our best laptops for students.

The Kanken is instantly recognizable, and its simple, boxy design has stayed popular for decades. The 16-liter Classic opens wide with a large zippered top, making it easy to pack and find things. The Vinylon F fabric is tough, water resistant and easy to wipe clean.

Owners love the color selection and the included seat pad that slips into the back. The trade-offs are thin straps and no laptop sleeve in the Classic, so it's best for lighter loads like a tablet, notebook and water bottle. Fjallraven also makes a laptop version if you need one.

The Borealis is one of the best-selling backpacks in the US, and it earns that spot with good organization and comfort. A padded laptop sleeve, a fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses or a phone, and a front organizer keep work essentials sorted. Its FlexVent suspension and sternum strap help with heavier loads.

Owners consistently praise its durability and comfort on long commutes. Side water bottle pockets and a bungee cord on the front add flexibility for extra layers. The trade-off is weight: it's heavier than minimalist packs, and the sporty styling won't suit everyone. Traveling? Compare it with our best carry-on luggage picks.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack is a favorite among photographers, but its clever design works for anyone with gear to organize. Adjustable FlexFold dividers create custom compartments, side zips let you reach inside without taking the bag off, and the MagLatch top closure expands for extra room.

The weatherproof shell and premium hardware feel built to last, and Peak Design backs it with a lifetime warranty. The trade-offs are price and weight: it costs several times more than our other picks and is heavier than a simple daypack.