We Tried And Tested This $80 Backpack Which Is An Underrated Favourite For Travellers

There’s so much literature on the best travel backpack out there on the internet and while some look pretty legit, a lot of them are super pricey – and let’s be honest, they don’t look very nice. Hey, I’m all for investing in quality stuff but splashing $300+ on a bad that looks like a glossy turtle shell is just not my vibe. 

If you’ve ever sat at the boarding gate, waiting for your flight and observing fellow travellers, you might notice a common theme—many of them seem to carry the same bag. Recently, during my last trip, I counted at least six different people sporting the same backpack: the Jansport Cool Student Backpack. 

Jansport backpacks have always come with good reviews – a quick web search will get you comments like “high quality”, “lots of room” and “lasts forever”. Some hardcore fans choose to buy the exact same bag when their current one was worn out. That’s true loyalty.

Best Features & What People Loved About It

Spacious & Practical Design
The Jansport Cool Student Backpack has a capacity of 34L and a roomy interior with two large main compartments that provide plenty of space for essentials. The padded laptop sleeve fits up to a 15” laptop, and additional front organiser pockets make it easy to stow away smaller items like chargers, headphones, and snacks. Even fully packed, I found it easy to reach everything without digging around too much—a serious plus when you’re on the go.

Durable & Built to Last
Jansport is known for creating bags that withstand daily wear and tear. Many users rave about the long-lasting quality, with some fans repurchasing the same backpack after years of use. The Cool Student model is crafted with durable fabric, making it a reliable choice for those who value longevity in their travel gear.

Get it now: Jansport Cool Student Backpack, $83.89, Buy now

What I Packed

Being an anxious traveller, I tend to overpack, and this time was no exception. I managed to fit my laptop, an iPad, a change of clothes, snacks, toiletries, a travel pillow and a book—all in the Cool Student Backpack. Surprisingly, the bag’s thoughtful design made everything fit comfortably, with room to spare. 

Is It Worth the Hype?

I had more than 20 hours of flights to catch and terminals to run across so here is my honest opinion. 

While the Jansport Cool Student Backpack is spacious, sturdy, and stylish, it did feel a bit heavy for long-haul flights. By the end of the trip, the weight of all my items added up, making it slightly uncomfortable to carry for extended periods. The straps were a bit stiff which annoyed me a little. 

Also, because of its many compartments, it tends to puff up a bit when you start filling the bag, making it a little harder to slide it under the front seat.

Fun fact: My seatmate on my first leg of the flight saw my Jansport backpack and started reminiscing about how her first travel backpack was the same as mine so I guess it's a conversation starter. 

For shorter trips or if you don’t plan to carry heavy tech, it’s an excellent choice, and it’s hard to beat the $80 price tag for something so versatile and durable. I ended up getting a more comfortable bag during my trip so I guess the lesson learnt here is to not always follow the hype. 

Overall, the Jansport Cool Student Backpack delivers on both style and functionality, making it a reliable travel companion for the minimalist packer or those seeking a quality backpack without the hefty price. So if you’re looking for an affordable, stylish, and sturdy travel bag, this Jansport classic might just be worth the hype.

Alternative backpacks to get:

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