The Best Toddler Backpacks for Daycare, Preschool and Beyond

Need a backpack that will take your tot to the classroom and beyond? This toddler backpack, designed specifically for kiddos 4+, is an ideal choice. It’s got all the features you need for a school setting (a spacious main compartment, a water bottle pocket, etc.), plus a well-designed back panel to make carrying it as comfortable as possible. And get a load of that cute critter print! It’s perfect for travel, adventures and learning, of course. Still not convinced? Read one of the many five-star reviews!

Dimensions: 11” (L) x 6” (W) x 14.5” (H) | Weight: 13 oz. | Capacity: 16 L | Materials: 100% polyester | Age rating: 4+ years

STATE is a brand best-known for its super-chic bags and generous mission—they donate a portion of their proceeds to a range of charitable initiatives. Adults love the standard Kane backpack, and kids will adore having their very own Mini Kane too. The bookbag is 11” tall with large pockets and a top loop that’s easy to hang up in preschool cubbies or lockers. The straps are soft and padded, and the neon accents are almost too cool for school. Pair it with the matching snack pack for a complete set.

Dimensions: 9.45” (L) x 3.54” (W) x 12.6” (H) | Capacity: 6 L | Weight: 12.32 oz. | Materials: 100% polyester | Age rating: 2 to 4 years old

Durable, roomy and oh-so-cute, this pick checks all of the boxes on our list when it comes to picking the best daycare bag. It’s spacious enough to hold your kiddo’s essentials—such as a change of clothes, diapers, wipes and a snack or two—plus, it has an external strap where a lunch box can be clipped on. Thanks to several interior and exterior pockets, prepping everything before getting your little love out the door will be a bit easier. Better yet, when your tot graduates to preschool, they’ll be able to confidently wear this bag themselves. Need a different size? No problem—choose from five different options to align with your kiddo as they reach new ages and stages of development.

Dimensions: 12” (L) x 6” (W) x 15” (H) | Capacity: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: 100% polyester | Age rating: N/A

The best backpacks for one-year-olds are just the right size for their teeny tiny backs, like this adorable design. After all, they don’t have too much to carry just yet! The circular shape features a breathable mesh back panel, adjustable straps and a chest harness for your little one’s comfort. Plus, thanks to the metal zipper, your tot can practice opening and closing their bag themselves. This would make a unique first birthday gift!

Dimensions: 9.1” (L) x 2.8” (W) x 9.1” (H) | Capacity: N/A | Weight: 5.76 oz. | Materials: | Age rating: 18+ months

Now that your tot has reached the two-year mark, they’ll need a toddler backpack to celebrate their “big kid” status. We love this sunny, rainbow-patterned bag from Pottery Barn Kids that’s made entirely from recycled plastic water bottles. The result? A fabric that’s water-resistant, durable and, of course, sustainable. To keep your little one organized, there are several interior and exterior pockets. Last but not least, this backpack for toddlers also has a top handle so it can easily be hung up at preschool.

Dimensions: 10” (L) x 4” (W) x 12” (H) | Capacity: N/A | Weight: 8 oz. | Materials: 100% polyester | Age rating: N/A

Herschel is known for its cool grown-up designs—but did you know that they make kids’ backpacks too? Offering the same signature look as the classic Heritage bag, but sized for children ages 3 to 7, this toddler backpack is perfect for a trip to the playground or the first day of preschool. It has a roomy main compartment, a front storage pocket, an interior name tag and a removable sternum support strap. What’s more, it comes in plenty of cute prints and patterns to boot.

Dimensions: 8.5” (L) x 4” (W) x 13” (H) | Capacity: 9 L | Weight: 12 oz. | Materials: 100% polyester | Age rating: 3 to 7 years old

Next up on our list of the best toddler backpacks is this pick from Crate & kids. The durable material is made from recycled water bottles, and adorned with a vibrant dinosaur pattern. Thick padded straps offer top-notch comfort, while a nifty top handle means it's easy to grab when you’re rushing out the door. Inside, you’ll find a roomy compartment (complete with a name tag) and a padded pocket that’s perfect for storing a tablet or folders. Personalization options are also available, but keep in mind: Toddler backpacks are safer if they show only your child’s initials, rather than their first or full name.

Dimensions: 10” (L) x 4.5” (W) x 13” (H) | Capacity: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: 100% recycled polyester | Age rating: 3 to 5 years old

With this 3-in-1 toddler backpack and lunchbox set, your little one will be ready to go for their first day of school, summer camp or any other adventure you have in mind. Your tot is sure to have heart eyes for the too-cute pug design, and you’ll love all the standout features this set has to offer. Those include the easy-to-open (and close!) snack cup, the convenient water bottle pocket and front pouch and the insulated lunch bag. Complete the set with a pug-themed insulated food container for warm meals.

Dimensions: 11” (L) x 5” (W) x 12” (H) (backpack), 7” (L) x 4.25” (W) x 9.5” (H) (lunch box)| Capacity: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: Polyester | Age rating: 3+ years

Mini toddler backpacks are ideal for trips to the playground, running errands with parents and other everyday activities. We’re fans of this adorable dino-themed backpack for toddlers. Crafted from neoprene, you can count on it to be water-resistant, lightweight and soft, while also being durable enough to protect all of your child’s belongings. Is your little one not a fan of dinosaurs? Don’t worry—it comes in several styles, from a mermaid or a [unicorn]() to a fire engine or a shark.

Dimensions: 8.3” (L) x 3.9” (W) x 10.2” (H) | Capacity: N/A | Weight: 8.1 oz. | Materials: Neoprene | Age rating: 1 to 6 years old

If there was a popularity contest among toddler backpacks, this one from Skip Hop would win hands down. Seriously, you see them everywhere. That’s because it’s the perfect size for the tiniest of travelers. It’s roomy without being too large for them to carry on their own, features a separate side bottle holder for when your tot gets thirsty, and has an interior label for their name. Plus, the padded, harness-style straps promise comfort and extra security. There’s even a removable tether you can hold to stay connected to your child. It’s also ridiculously adorable—with a bunch of different animal options, so your little one is sure to find a favorite.

Dimensions: 7.5” (L) x 3.25” (W) x 9” (H) | Capacity: N/A | Weight: 8 oz. | Materials: 100% polyester | Age rating: 1+ years

Sometimes, simpler really is better. Case in point: This mini toddler backpack. It features a zippered main compartment, that’s the perfect size for a favorite toy or stuffed animal, and also has a mesh water bottle pocket. Other highlights include the top carry handle and the adjustable shoulder straps.

Dimensions: 7.5” (L) x 3.25” (W) x 9” (H) | Capacity: 1 L | Weight: 5.9 oz. | Materials: N/A | Age rating: N/A

Bixbee’s animal-themed options are some of the best kids’ backpacks out there, because they’re ergonomically designed for children ages 3 to 5. That means your tot can take it from preschool to kindergarten with ease. The patented horizontal design is extra-comfy to tote around, and the padded, contoured shoulders prevent the straps from slipping. Oh, and if you’re shopping for a matching toddler backpack and lunchbox, Bixbee sells lunch bags too.

Dimensions: 12.5” (L) x 4” (W) x 10” (H) | Capacity: N/A | Weight: 1 lb. | Materials: 100% polyester | Age rating: 3 to 5 years old

Next up on our list of the best toddler backpacks is this bright tiger-printed style. Created for kiddos ages 1 to 3, the cute bookbag is lightweight and made from 100 percent neoprene. The top loop makes it easy to hang up in the classroom, while the front pocket ensures your sweetie has plenty of space for snacks and knick-knacks. All that for $15? Bargain!

Dimensions: 8.25” (L) x 3.75” (W) x 10” (H) | Capacity: 4.92 L | Weight: 8 oz. | Materials: 100% neoprene | Age rating: 1 to 3 years old

It’s finally here: The day your tot can carry their own gear (at least some of it) while you’re on the move. In addition to a pint-sized suitcase, you’ll also want to equip them with a toddler travel backpack—like this one from The North Face. On-the-go spills and accidents are inevitable, which is why this design is made from durable, water-resistant fabric. Your kiddo will also appreciate the toggled zippers, the two water bottle pockets and the top-loading main compartment, which all offer easy access to inspire independence. Better yet, this bag comes in a variety of colorways to please even the most discerning of tots.

Dimensions: 8.875” (L) x 5.5” (W) x 11.875” (H) | Capacity: 10 L | Weight: 10.6 oz. | Materials: 100% polyester | Age rating: N/A

Last but not least is our pick for the best toddler hiking backpack. Encourage your little one’s love of the outdoors by taking them on nature walks, and inspire their budding confidence by allowing them to carry their own belongings. This versatile backpack for toddlers is equipped with all the features you’d expect from an adult hiking bag, including a ventilated back panel, padded mesh shoulder straps, side water bottle pockets (to hold any treasures found along the way, of course!) and even hydration bladder compatibility. Not sure what to pack their bag with for your next excursion? Check out our list of toddler hiking essentials—and don’t forget a pair of trusty toddler hiking boots.

Dimensions: 7.5” (L) x 7” (W) x 13” (H) | Capacity: 10 L | Weight: 9.3 oz. | Materials: Polyester and nylon | Age rating: N/A