Best Bags For Uni: Top 8 Bags For Students 2024

If you're heading to university this September and trying to get into that 'back to school' frame of mind, you might be considering what the best bags for uni are.

You'll be relying on it day in, day out to carry everything you need - including heavier essentials such as a laptop - so it's worth spending that extra bit of time finding the perfect sturdy but stylish option.

From satchels to backpacks; high street to high end, TOTUM takes a look at the best bags for students...

What is the best bag for university?

If you're on the hunt for the best bag for uni, you might be wondering what features you should be looking out for.

What exactly constitutes a good bag for students?

Well, first of all, you don't want anything that's going to weigh you down - something lightweight is a must.

But you also don't want something flimsy; you'll want a sturdy, durable bag that can carry a decent amount of your belongings to get you through each uni day!

Our overall best bag for uni students: North Face Borealis Backpack - John Lewis

You really can't go wrong with the North Face, and especially the iconic Borealis backpack. This would be our top overall choice for students thanks to its high quality but reasonable price point - it's not low cost but for £115, this will get you through your uni years and beyond so it's well worth the investment.

You can also earn money back if you buy this bag via John Lewis with your TOTUM Cashback card!

The North Face Borealis backpack comes with a dedicated, padded laptop sleeve that can fit up to a 15-inch laptop, along with multiple compartments, padded shoulder straps for extra comfort and two external water bottle pockets too.

It has everything a student could need and more!

Fjällräven Kånken Classic Backpack - Schuh

Next on our list is the OG backpack from Fjällräven Kånken. It's fair to say this one has been tried and tested and is an absolute go-to for students and professionals alike.

Consistently rated one of the best bags for uni, the Classic Backpack from Fjällräven Kånken combines a sleek Scandinavian design with highly durable, moisture-repelling material. Backpacks are always a strong contender when it comes to university bags; what's better than being able to roam around hands-free?

Available in everything from warm yellow to arctic green, the Classic Backpack is suited to all and will set you back around £85 (less with your TOTUM student card!)

You can shop this bag at Schuh - remember to make the most of your 10% Schuh student discount as a TOTUM member.

Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L - Cotswold Outdoor

Another favourite for students is the Patagonia Refugio Daypack, which has plenty of features that make it both functional and comfortable for daily use.

With a 26 litre capacity, the Patagonia Refugio Daypack is ideal for carrying all of your uni essentials, including bulky textbooks!

Patagonia is not only a cool brand that will help you to exude that edgy confidence on campus, it's also known for its high quality, durable products, and the Refugio Daypack is no exception. Made from robust materials that can withstand daily wear and tear, this is definitely one of the best bags out there to get you through university.

Shop Patagonia at Cotswold Outdoor and enjoy special offers with TOTUM!

The Satchel - The Cambridge Satchel Co.

It doesn't get much classier than the iconic Cambridge Satchel. On the slightly higher end of the price scale but worth every penny, the satchel is an elegant, luxury leather bag perfect for uni.

Available in a range of different sizes and both classic and contemporary shades, you can't go wrong with the Cambridge Satchel.

Perhaps the best thing about this bag is that it doesn't go out of style - it's been around since the 17th century and is still going strong.

Considered the most 'British of bags', this has got to be up there as one of the best bags for uni. At £200, it's not the cheapest bag out there, but it's certainly high quality.

If you want to get your hands on a Cambridge Satchel, remember to grab 10% off full priced items with your TOTUM membership!

ASOS DESIGN Tote Bag - ASOS

Let's look at something super budget-friendly. Times are tough right now, and let's be honest it can be even more difficult as a student trying to scrimp and save for new stationery, homeware, and course books as you make the move to university.

But budget-friendly doesn't always have to mean low quality, especially when it comes to this tote bag from ASOS.

Equipped with everything students could possibly need from a bag - plenty of room, ability to wipe clean, and best of all a specific laptop compartment - this is your go-to, low cost uni bag.

Best of all, as a TOTUM member, you can get 10% off ASOS all year round with our ASOS student discount, so it's even cheaper!

Sosoon Backpack with USB Charging Port - Amazon

Looking for another cheap and cheerful purchase? This Sosoon backpack from Amazon is not only great for those on a tight budget but also comes equipped with a standout feature that many other bags don't provide - a USB charging port!

This is the ultimate life saver for students constantly using their devices. By connecting a power bank inside the backpack to the external USB port, you can easily charge your phone, tablets, or other gadgets whilst on the go.

And for just £24.99, you really can't complain. It may not necessarily last as long as the pricier options.

Marc Jacobs Tote Bag - MyBag.com

If you're able to splash a little more cash and want something a bit more luxury and long-lasting, the Marc Jacobs Tote Bag could be the ideal university bag for you.

Available in a range of colours and sizes, this durable canvas bag is perfect for students. The 'Traveller' size easily fits a Macbook laptop, whilst the detachable shoulder strap ensures comfort whilst you're traipsing around campus. As a TOTUM member, you can grab 15% off selected lines at MyBag.com - don't walk, run!

Eastpak Padded Double Backpack - MyBag.com

Another one that's up there as one of the best bags for uni students is this padded Eastpak backpack - perfectly designed to hold all of your university essentials.

The hard-wearing canvas makes it extremely durable, offering two exterior front zip pockets and a bottle holder so you can stay nice and hydrated.

The interior boasts a padded laptop sleeve suitable for most 13” devices, so again it's great for transporting your tech about.

Adjustable shoulder straps and a padded back panel also make it super comfy and easy to get around!

Best bags for uni

So there we have it, a round-up of our best bags for uni. There's something for everyone here, so whether you prefer a backpack or a tote bag, we've got you covered.

Best of all, you can get student discount on most (if not all) of the bags listed as a TOTUM member, so make sure to sign up for a TOTUM card here.