With heading back to school just around the corner, the start of a new year can be filled with excitement, anticipation and nervousness. Whether you’re dusting off your textbooks or sorting out your outfits for the year, the beginning of the school year is the perfect time to assess what you need to start the year off right and a good school or university bag is one of those accessories. In this article, we’re sharing our tips and tricks for choosing the ultimate back-to-school bag to help you get the most out of the school year ahead.

When it comes to bags for school and uni, one key difference lies in their size. Since students spend the entire day at school, a larger backpack is usually required to accommodate all their essentials, such as textbooks, notebooks, and lunch boxes. On the other hand, uni days can vary depending on the classes, making a smaller bag sufficient to carry essentials like a laptop, water bottles, and any necessary documents or notebooks.

Choosing a school bag is not as easy as one might think. From deciding on the style, size and overall functionality of a bag, there can be a lot to consider. Not to mention there is a plethora of variation, aesthetics and tech available. So, how do you choose the right bag for back to school?

1. What do you need to carry?

The first aspect of a new bag to consider is how much you need to carry with you while at school or uni. Do you need to carry a small number of items, like a drink bottle and laptop or a whole selection of textbooks, equipment, etc.? This can help you determine what size bag and how much space you’ll need.

2. School requirements

For some schools, a specific type of bag may be required, like a backpack or duffle bag, which may limit the type of bag you can choose. Make sure to double-check your school’s uniform requirements before splurging on a new bag right away.

 Once you know roughly how much you’ll need to carry and the requirements for colour, style etc., then you can start looking for your new bag. There are many different aspects to a good bag and choosing a style based on aesthetics and functionality is important.

1. Style

The style of the bag is probably one of the most defining factors for choosing a new bag, and you likely already have a design in mind. From a simplistic backpack to a more stylish tote, there is a huge range of bag styles available. For school, a backpack is more of a practical option, especially if your school doesn’t offer lockers or common rooms, and will give your back support while carrying an array of heavy items, like notebooks and a laptop. For uni, there is more freedom to include a bit more style and personality. Choose a bag that reflects your personal style and also offers enough functionality to carry your laptop and any other essentials, like a drink bottle, wallet etc.

2. Material

Be sure to choose a bag made with sturdy, durable material. You’d be surprised how much stuff you may need to bring with you day in and day out, so you need a bag that can handle any weight. From high-quality leather to pleather, the thicker the fabric, the more likely the bag will last the entire year. Similarly, choosing a fabric or material that is easy to clean is essential for a hassle-free school year, with more time spent enjoying the bag rather than cleaning it.

3. Colour

Make sure to choose a bag in a versatile colour for a range of outfits and environments. Neutral colours like black, tan and navy blue will work well paired with a range of outfits. Neutral or dark colours are also better for preventing staining and disguising dirt, especially at school when your bag will most likely be thrown around. But, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t experiment with colour.

1. AYA Tote Bags

AYA tote bags are a fantastic choice for university. With their spacious design and durable materials, they can easily accommodate textbooks, notebooks, and other essentials. The internal zip and phone pocket provide added security for valuable items, ensuring that students can keep their belongings safe.

Additionally, the large main compartment and twin round shoulder straps offer ample space for carrying bulkier items, like a laptop and water bottle. The stylish and versatile designs of AYA tote bags are suitable for both casual and formal settings, making them a practical and fashionable choice for students.

2. Antler Backpacks

The range of Antler backpacks is a great choice for refreshing your back-to-school look with a bag that's functional with a simplistic style. With two large main compartments and a smaller front pocket that’s discreetly hidden, this backpack will hold all your essentials, from books to laptops and additional items you may need with ease. Not to mention they’re crafted with thick nylon for added durability and available in a range of colourways, it’ll become your next favourite backpack for back-to-school, work and uni.

3. Evity Tote Bags

A must-have for carrying laptops, drink bottles, snacks and so much more, the Evity totes offer a large compartment and internal pockets, so no matter if you’re at the library or sitting in a lecture hall, all your essentials stay put. The exterior pocket with a magnetic snap closure or secure zip closure provides easy access to frequently used items, while the internal zip and organiser pockets help keep belongings organised.

The spacious interior and multiple compartments ensure that there is plenty of room for books, notebooks, and other essentials while the durable shoulder straps provide students with a reliable and comfortable way to carry their school or uni essentials. Crafted with premium leather and available in a variety of neutral colourings, like black, tan, and grey, you can find your next favourite study buddy work essential in our collection of Evity tote bags.

Whether you’re revamping your style or need a versatile option for work and school, discover the full selection of back-to-school and uni bags online from STRAND.