12 Adorable Backpacks for Toddlers and Preschoolers

updated Aug 17, 2021
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Credit: Courtesy of Amazon, Kane, Pottery Barn Kids

Whether your toddler or preschooler is headed to daycare, school, or camp, with September quickly approaching, chances are that you’ve recently found yourself on the hunt for the perfect backpack for your little one. But what makes the ultimate toddler backpack? Well, it’s no secret that little kids need little backpacks. However, that doesn’t mean any small backpack will do. It has to be big enough to hold lunch or a snack, some basic school supplies, and a few little treasures, but not so much that they’re weighed down and uncomfortable. Most of all, it has to be fun and kid-approved. But with so many adorable options to choose from (seriously, how is a parent supposed to narrow down their pick when dinosaurs and narwhals are involved?), it can be hard to suss out the good from the bad. That’s why we scoured the internet for the best of the best and rounded up 12 of the best toddler backpacks on the market today.

Note: Many of the backpacks below come in similar styles, but with different colors or animals. If you like the general look, check the brands’ other options, too.

1 / 12
Pottery Barn Kids
$22.50

Every kid loves a personalized backpack and there's one place that does them like no other: Pottery Barn Kids. The brand offers tons of fun monogrammable styles, but our favorite is this precious rainbow option. Looking for a complete set? This style also comes in a bundle with a matching lunch box and water bottle!

2 / 12
Amazon
$14.99

Take their excitement for all things dinosaurs to the next level with this 3D toddler dinosaur backpack. Covered in a cute dino print and featuring a track of dinosaur spikes that lead to a matching tail, this fun backpack is lightweight, available in five fun colors, and comes with a detachable safety leash.

3 / 12
Amazon
$20.00
was $21.99

For years now, the Skip Hop toddler backpacks have been a favorite among parents — and who could blame them? With tons of whimsical animal-inspired designs (I mean, look at this narwhal!), comfy padded straps, and an easy-clean lining, they're a kid's (and parents') dream!

4 / 12
Nike
$25.00

You already have them rocking out in style with a cool pair of kicks, so all that's left is a matching backpack. Nike's toddler backpack comes in a bunch of fun, kid-approved colors, complete with the iconic logo and "Just Do It" catchphrase emblazoned across the top that'll inspire your little one to take on the day.

5 / 12
Amazon
$34.95

Send them back to school alongside their favorite four-legged pals with this Paw Patrol toddler backpack set. Chase, Marshall, and Rubble cover this fun collection, which comes complete with a bonus lunch bag, pencil case, water bottle, and personalized name tag.

6 / 12
Hunter
$70.00

Hunter may be known for its rain boots, but its limited edition weatherproof Peppa Pig backpack is the thing your little one will be jumping for joy over. Available in three colorways, this backpack features a fun rainy-day print your Peppa Pig-obsessed tike will love toting around.

7 / 12
Nordstrom
$42.00

What's better than finding an adorable llama-themed backpack? Finding out it comes with a matching lunch bag. This toddler backpack and lunchbox set from Stephen Joseph is one of just many adorable designs from the brand guaranteed to make school (and lunchtime) even more fun.

8 / 12
STATE Bags
$85.00

We have four words for you: glow in the dark. The Kane Kids glow in the dark monster backpack is as fun as it gets with an animated monster print your little ones will love, especially when the lights get low. The best part? There's even a matching lunch box!

9 / 12
Amazon
$65.00

Are you a fan of Fjallraven's iconic Kanken backpack? Well, now you can get one for your kids, too. This mini backpack features the same design as the classic original, meaning you get all the style and dirt- and water-resistant properties you love about the regular Kanken in a toddler size.

10 / 12
Amazon
$31.88

Looking for a rolling toddler backpack? Well, it doesn't get any cuter than the selection from Yodo. Designed to be used as a school bag, rolling backpack, or suitcase, this multifunctional bag is a must for little ones on the move (we're particularly fond of the adorable unicorn backpack).

11 / 12
Amazon
$29.99

Wildkin is another brand beloved by parents thanks to its affordable, high-quality products for kids. Case in point: its best-selling 12-inch backpacks. Coming in a host of fun colors and patterns, these backpacks stand out thanks to one thing: their insulated front pocket. Essential a lunchbox and backpack two in one, you'll never have to worry about your little one losing their lunch again.

12 / 12
West Elm
$29.50

West Elm might not be the first place you think of when you start your back-to-school shopping, but don't sleep on their backpack selection! The bold and colorful Astor backpack is roomy, lightweight, and bound to get some compliments on the playground.