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From carrying textbooks to laptops and weekend travel essentials, here are the best backpack options for under Rs 2,200.
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From carrying textbooks to laptops and weekend travel essentials, the right backpack depends less on brand and more on how you plan to use it. Here’s what to look for and the best options under Rs 2,200.
Buying a backpack sounds simple until you start looking at the options. A school student carrying textbooks has very different needs from a college student carrying a laptop and charger. Someone who travels frequently may prioritise storage space, hidden pockets and better organisation.
That is why choosing the right category first is often more important than choosing a brand. Before spending your money, it helps to understand what separates a school backpack from a college backpack or a travel backpack. Once you know that, finding the right backpack becomes much easier.
School vs college vs travel backpacks: What’s the difference?
| Feature | School Backpack | College Backpack | Travel Backpack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Books, notebooks, lunch box | Laptop, charger, accessories | Clothes, gadgets, short trips |
| Capacity | 18-25 litres | 20-30 litres | 25-35 litres |
| Laptop compartment | Optional | Essential | Recommended |
| Organisation pockets | Basic | Multiple | Extensive |
| Hidden pockets | Not necessary | Useful | Important |
| USB charging port | Not required | Useful | Useful |
| Comfort for long use | Important | Very important | Essential |
| Ideal pick | Adidas Brand Logo Backpack | Tommy Hilfiger Joshua Backpack | Puma Ignite Rolltop Backpack |
What matters most in a school backpack?
For school students, comfort and durability should come first.
Most school bags carry textbooks, notebooks, stationery, lunch boxes and water bottles. Fancy features such as USB charging ports or hidden passport compartments usually don’t add much value.
Instead, focus on padded shoulder straps, strong zippers and a design that distributes weight evenly. A lightweight bag can make a noticeable difference when it is being carried for several hours every day.
Best school backpack under Rs 2,200
Adidas Unisex Brand Logo Backpack
Was – Rs 2,699, Now – Rs 1,484
Why it stands out
The Adidas backpack keeps things simple. It is lightweight, affordable and suitable for everyday school use without unnecessary features.
Key highlights
● Recognisable Adidas branding
● Lightweight design
● Easy-access front pocket
● Suitable for books and daily essentials
Pros
● Affordable
● Comfortable for everyday use
● Trusted sportswear brand
Cons
● Limited organisation compared to college bags
● No dedicated laptop section
Who should buy it?
School students looking for a simple and reliable backpack.
Why it makes sense?
You do not need multiple compartments if your primary load consists of books and notebooks. This bag focuses on the essentials.
Alternative school pick
Wildcraft Unisex Backpack (Olive)
Was – Rs 2,562, Now – Rs 2,049
If organisation matters more, the Wildcraft backpack offers additional compartments and a slightly more structured layout while remaining within budget.
What matters most in a college backpack?
College students generally carry more than books. A typical day may involve a laptop, charger, headphones, notebooks, power bank, wallet, keys and personal items. Constantly searching through one large compartment can become frustrating.
That is why organisation becomes the priority.
Look for dedicated laptop storage, multiple compartments, water-resistant materials and comfortable shoulder padding.
Tommy Hilfiger Joshua Backpack
Was – Rs 3,199, Now – Rs 1,999
Why it stands out
This backpack strikes an excellent balance between style, organisation and everyday functionality.
Key highlights
● Dedicated laptop compatibility
● Three-compartment layout
● Water-resistant construction
● Premium brand appeal
Pros
● Excellent organisation
● Suitable for classes and internships
● Comfortable for daily commuting
Cons
● Slightly smaller than some travel backpacks
● Brand-focused styling may not appeal to everyone
Who should buy it?
College students, young professionals and anyone carrying a laptop daily.
Why it makes sense
It handles modern student needs far better than a basic school backpack while remaining affordable.
Alternative college picks
United Colors of Benetton Quirky Backpack
Was – Rs 1,999, Now – Rs 1,999
A minimalist option for students who want something versatile for classes and everyday use.
Levi’s Unisex Brown Backpack
Was – Rs 3,999, Now – Rs 2,199
A casual campus-friendly choice with a clean, timeless design.
What matters most in a travel backpack?
Travel backpacks solve a completely different problem.
Instead of carrying books, you’re carrying clothes, chargers, gadgets, travel documents and valuables.
This is where features such as hidden compartments, expandable storage, water resistance and improved organisation become useful.
For travel, capacity and security matter more than appearance.
Puma Rolltop Backpack
Was – Rs 2,999, Now – Rs 2,099
Why it stands out
The rolltop design provides flexibility that traditional backpacks cannot match. Need extra storage for a short trip? Simply expand the top section.
Key highlights
● Rolltop expandable design
● Larger carrying capacity
● Multiple storage areas
● Travel-friendly structure
Pros
● Excellent storage flexibility
● Comfortable for longer carrying periods
● Suitable for short trips and daily commuting
Cons
● Bulkier than school backpacks
● Rolltop design may not suit everyone
Who should buy it?
Frequent travellers, commuters and users who regularly carry more than the usual daily essentials.
Why it makes sense?
The additional storage flexibility makes it more versatile than traditional backpacks.
Alternative travel pick
American Tourister Brett 3.0 Backpack
Was – Rs 3,500, Now – Rs 2,096
If organisation is your priority, the American Tourister offers multiple compartments that make packing electronics, documents and travel accessories much easier.
Other good backpacks worth considering
The Souled Store Nimbus Utility Backpack
Was – Rs 3,499, Now – Rs 2,099
Best for users who want a trendy everyday backpack with practical compartments and laptop storage.
Wildcraft Unisex Backpack
Was – Rs 2,562, Now – Rs 2,049
A strong all-rounder that works for both school and college students who prefer additional organisation.
Who should pick what?
- Choose the Adidas Brand Logo Backpack if your priority is carrying books comfortably every day and you want a reliable school bag.
- Choose the Tommy Hilfiger Joshua Backpack if you regularly carry a laptop, charger and accessories. It offers the best balance between organisation and everyday usability.
- Choose the Puma Ignite Rolltop Backpack if you travel frequently, commute long distances or simply need extra storage flexibility.
- Choose the American Tourister Brett 3.0 if compartment organisation matters more than maximum capacity.
- Choose the United Colors of Benetton Quirky Backpack if you want a versatile backpack that can move between college, work and casual use.
FAQs
Which backpack is best for students under Rs 2,200?
For school students, the Adidas Brand Logo Backpack offers the best value. For college students, the Tommy Hilfiger Joshua Backpack is the stronger choice.
Which backpack is best for carrying a laptop?
The Tommy Hilfiger Joshua Backpack, American Tourister Brett 3.0 and The Souled Store Nimbus Utility Backpack are the strongest laptop-friendly options in this list.
Is a travel backpack suitable for college?
Yes, but travel backpacks are usually larger and bulkier. Most college students will find a dedicated college backpack more comfortable for daily use.
Which backpack offers the most storage space?
The Puma Ignite Rolltop Backpack offers the most flexible storage thanks to its expandable rolltop design.
Which backpack is best for daily commuting?
The Tommy Hilfiger Joshua Backpack provides the best balance between comfort, organisation and professional appearance.
Are expensive backpacks always better?
Not necessarily. The best backpack depends on your needs. A Rs 1,500 school backpack may serve a student better than a Rs 2,000 travel backpack filled with features they never use.
How long should a good backpack last?
With regular use and proper care, a quality backpack from brands such as Adidas, Wildcraft, American Tourister or Puma can easily last several years.
Disclaimer: The items curated in this feature were provided to News18 by the respective brands for an authentic, hands-on evaluation. These insights are based solely on our independent testing and personal experience. To keep you ahead of the curve with the latest trends, News18 utilises affiliate links. This means if you decide to shop through our recommendations, we may earn a small referral commission at no extra cost to you. Please be advised that News18 is not responsible for any claims under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, or other applicable laws regarding the final performance, quality, or safety of these products.
