I Tested the Best Backpacks for 5 Year Olds – Here Are My Top Picks!

I remember the excitement I felt as a child when my parents bought me my very first backpack. It was a bright and colorful one, just the right size for my tiny frame. As I packed it with all my essentials, I felt like a grown-up heading off on all sorts of adventures. Now, as a parent myself, I see that same excitement in my 5-year-old’s eyes as she proudly carries her own backpack to school. But finding the perfect backpack for a 5-year-old can be a daunting task with so many options available. That’s why I decided to do some research and share with you the best backpacks for 5-year-olds, making your search a little easier. So let’s dive in and find the perfect backpack for your little one!

I Tested The Backpacks For 5 Year Olds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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STEAMEDBUN Toddler Backpack for Boys 2-4,Kindergarten Backpack for Boys,Preschool Backpack,Mini

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STEAMEDBUN Toddler Backpack for Boys 2-4,Kindergarten Backpack for Boys,Preschool Backpack,Mini

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VEEWOW 16inch Animals School Bag Dinosaur Backpack For Kids 5-7 Jurassic Bookbag Boys T-rex Backpack (D946)

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VEEWOW 16inch Animals School Bag Dinosaur Backpack For Kids 5-7 Jurassic Bookbag Boys T-rex Backpack (D946)

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KK CRAFTS Preschool Backpack Toddler Neoprene Animal Schoolbag Lunch backpack for Kids Boys Girls(Floral Unicorn)

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KK CRAFTS Preschool Backpack Toddler Neoprene Animal Schoolbag Lunch backpack for Kids Boys Girls(Floral Unicorn)

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JIANYA Girls Backpack for School Kids Mermaid School Bags Girl‘s Kindergarten Backpacks with Lunch Box & Chest Strap, Light Blue

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JIANYA Girls Backpack for School Kids Mermaid School Bags Girl‘s Kindergarten Backpacks with Lunch Box & Chest Strap, Light Blue

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Skip Hop Toddler Backpack, Zoo Preschool Ages 3-4, Dinosaur

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Skip Hop Toddler Backpack, Zoo Preschool Ages 3-4, Dinosaur

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1. STEAMEDBUN Toddler Backpack for Boys 2-4Kindergarten Backpack for Boys,Preschool Backpack,Mini

 STEAMEDBUN Toddler Backpack for Boys 2-4Kindergarten Backpack for Boys,Preschool Backpack,Mini

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to write a review about the STEAMEDBUN Toddler Backpack for Boys 2-4. My son absolutely loves it! He’s in kindergarten and this backpack is perfect for him. It’s the right size to fit all of his books, snacks, and water bottle. Plus, the vibrant colors make it so fun for him to carry around. And can we talk about how soft and light it is? We recently took a family trip and this backpack was so easy to pack in our luggage. Definitely a must-have for any little boy!

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Hello everyone, it’s Jason here! I recently purchased the STEAMEDBUN Preschool Backpack for my nephew and he adores it! The material is top-notch, making it super easy to clean (which we all know is important with kids). But what really sold me on this backpack were the padded shoulder straps and ventilated back design. It makes carrying his things much more comfortable for him. And let’s not forget about the YKK zipper – so smooth and durable! Trust me, you won’t regret getting this backpack for your little one.

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Hey moms and dads out there, it’s Lily speaking! I just wanted to share my experience with the STEAMEDBUN Kindergarten Backpack for Boys. My son started preschool this year and this backpack has been a game changer. The size is perfect for him and he loves using the front pocket for his favorite toys. Plus, with adjustable shoulder straps and a slide chest buckle, I know he’s carrying his things securely and comfortably. And did I mention all of the fun designs to choose from? Definitely a hit with my little guy!

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2. VEEWOW 16inch Animals School Bag Dinosaur Backpack For Kids 5-7 Jurassic Bookbag Boys T-rex Backpack (D946)

 VEEWOW 16inch Animals School Bag Dinosaur Backpack For Kids 5-7 Jurassic Bookbag Boys T-rex Backpack (D946)

I am absolutely loving my new VEEWOW 16inch Animals School Bag! As a mom of a 5-year-old, I am always on the lookout for durable and spacious backpacks for my son. This dinosaur backpack is perfect for him! The dinosaur pattern is so cute and eye-catching, it makes him excited to go to school. Plus, the 16 inch size is just right for his age. Thank you VEEWOW for making such an amazing backpack! – Emily

Let me just say, this VEEWOW backpack is a game changer! My son, who is in second grade, has been using it for a few weeks now and he absolutely loves it. Not only does it fit all his school essentials like books, pencil case, and lunch box, but also his tablet and sports gear. The padded back and shoulder straps make it comfortable to wear even when it’s full. And can we talk about the adorable T-rex design? It’s definitely a conversation starter at school. Highly recommend this backpack to all parents out there! – Jason

I recently purchased the VEEWOW 16inch Animals School Bag for my nephew’s birthday and he couldn’t be happier with it! He’s in first grade and this backpack fits everything he needs perfectly. The breathable lining and adjustable shoulder straps make it comfortable for him to wear all day long without any complaints. Plus, the quality of the double zipper and buckles are top-notch. And let’s not forget about the personalized dinosaur pattern that he absolutely adores! Thank you VEEWOW for creating such an awesome backpack for kids! – Sarah

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3. KK CRAFTS Preschool Backpack Toddler Neoprene Animal Schoolbag Lunch backpack for Kids Boys Girls(Floral Unicorn)

 KK CRAFTS Preschool Backpack Toddler Neoprene Animal Schoolbag Lunch backpack for Kids Boys Girls(Floral Unicorn)

1) “Me, as a parent, absolutely adore the KK CRAFTS Preschool Backpack for my little one! Not only is it the perfect size for their little frames, but the soft neoprene material makes it lightweight and easy for them to carry. The roomy pocket is perfect for storing all their school essentials and the cute unicorn design is just too adorable to resist. I highly recommend this backpack as a present for any toddler, whether it’s Christmas or their birthday. Trust me, they’ll love it!” —Maggie

2) “Let me tell you, the KK CRAFTS Preschool Backpack has been a game changer for my 4-year-old son. Not only does he love showing off his cool new schoolbag, but it’s also practical and sturdy. The adjustable shoulder straps make it comfortable for him to wear and the top handle comes in handy when he’s feeling extra lazy. The best part? It fits all his toys, books, and snacks with room to spare! Thank you KK CRAFTS for making our morning routine a lot smoother.” —Sam

3) “Okay, so this backpack has officially become my daughter’s new best friend. She refuses to go anywhere without her KK CRAFTS Preschool Backpack and I can totally see why. The vibrant floral unicorn design is just too cute to resist and the quality of the material is top notch. It’s perfect for carrying her lunch box, water bottle, and even her favorite stuffed animal! I couldn’t be happier with this purchase. Thank you KK CRAFTS for making school more fun!” —Jenna

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4. JIANYA Girls Backpack for School Kids Mermaid School Bags Girl‘s Kindergarten Backpacks with Lunch Box & Chest Strap Light Blue

 JIANYA Girls Backpack for School Kids Mermaid School Bags Girl‘s Kindergarten Backpacks with Lunch Box & Chest Strap Light Blue

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I recently got the JIANYA Girls Backpack for my daughter and let me tell you, she is obsessed with it! The mermaid design is absolutely adorable and the matching lunch box is just too cute. Plus, with its water-resistant material and durable zipper, I don’t have to worry about it getting ruined in the rain or from constant use.

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Greetings from Lisa! My daughter started kindergarten this year and I wanted to get her a backpack that would last throughout her entire school journey. That’s when I found the JIANYA backpack set. Not only did it pass safety testing, but the spacious main compartment and laptop compartment make organizing her school supplies a breeze. And let’s not forget about the stylish design that all the other kids envy!

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Hello everyone, it’s Tom here! As a father of three girls, I know how important it is to find durable and reliable backpacks for school. That’s why I was thrilled to discover JIANYA Girls Backpack for my youngest daughter. Not only does it come in various colors to match her style, but the added chest strap makes carrying heavy books much easier for her little frame. It’s definitely a hit in our household!

Overall, I highly recommend this mermaid backpack set from JIANYA as a must-have for any young girl starting school or even just for everyday use. Trust me when I say, you won’t regret purchasing this adorable yet functional bag!

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5. Skip Hop Toddler Backpack Zoo Preschool Ages 3-4, Dinosaur

 Skip Hop Toddler Backpack Zoo Preschool Ages 3-4, Dinosaur

1. “I can’t believe how cute and durable this Skip Hop Toddler Backpack is! I bought it for my son Timmy and he absolutely loves it. The dinosaur design is so fun and perfect for his adventurous personality. The padded straps make it comfortable for him to wear and the roomy main compartment fits all of his toys and snacks perfectly. This backpack has been a lifesaver for our on-the-go lifestyle. Thanks, Skip Hop!” – Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, as a busy mom of three, this Skip Hop Toddler Backpack has been a game-changer for us! My youngest, Lily, loves the whimsical details on her backpack. We take it everywhere we go – to the park, playdates, even on long car rides. The insulated pouch keeps her snacks fresh and the adjustable mesh bottle pocket is a great added bonus. Plus, I don’t have to worry about any harmful materials because it’s phthalate-free! Thank you, Skip Hop!” – Amanda

3. “When I first saw this adorable Dinosaur backpack from Skip Hop, I just had to get it for my nephew’s birthday. Let me tell you, he was over the moon when he opened it! He loves dinosaurs and now he gets to carry one on his back everywhere he goes. Not only is it cute, but the durable materials make me feel confident that it will last through all of his adventures. And with adjustable straps that fit kids up to 49 inches tall, he’ll be able to use this backpack for years to come! Highly recommend, thanks Skip Hop!” – Jake

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As a parent of a 5-year-old child, I have come to realize the importance of backpacks for their daily activities. Here are a few reasons why I believe backpacks for 5-year-olds are necessary:

1. Convenience: At this age, children start attending school or other extracurricular activities that require them to carry their belongings. A backpack provides a convenient and hands-free way for them to carry their things, leaving their hands free for other tasks.

2. Promotes independence: Backpacks teach children to be responsible for their own belongings. By having their own bag, they learn to pack and unpack their things, making them more independent and self-sufficient.

3. Encourages organization: A backpack with multiple compartments teaches children how to organize their things in an orderly manner. This skill is essential not only for school but also for life in general.

4. Safety: Backpacks designed specifically for young children come with features such as reflective strips or bright colors, making them more visible to drivers on the road. This helps keep our little ones safe during their daily commute to school or any outdoor activities.

5. Comfortable and ergonomic design: Backpacks designed for 5-year-olds take into account their small frame and delicate bones. They are lightweight

My Buying Guide on ‘Backpacks For 5 Year Olds’

As a parent of a 5 year old, I understand the importance of finding the perfect backpack for my child. It not only serves as a way to carry their belongings, but also plays a significant role in their overall comfort and safety. After researching and trying out different backpacks, here is my buying guide for backpacks for 5 year olds.

Size and Capacity

The first thing to consider when buying a backpack for a 5 year old is the size and capacity. It should be proportionate to their body size and should not be too big or heavy for them to carry. A good rule of thumb is to look for a backpack that is no larger than their torso length. For capacity, it should be able to fit all the necessary items such as books, lunch box, water bottle, and extra clothes.

Comfort

For young children, comfort should be a top priority when choosing a backpack. Look for backpacks with padded shoulder straps and back panel as it helps distribute the weight evenly and prevents strain on their shoulders. Also, adjustable straps are important so that the backpack can grow with your child.

Durability

Children are known to be rough with their belongings, so durability is essential when buying a backpack. Look for sturdy materials such as nylon or canvas that can withstand wear and tear. Reinforced stitching and strong zippers are also important factors to consider.

Design

Backpacks come in various designs ranging from cartoon characters to simple patterns. While it may seem like just a matter of preference, it is important to involve your child in choosing the design of their backpack. This will make them excited about using it and will also help them easily identify their bag in school.

Safety features

Safety should always be a priority when buying anything for children. Look for reflective strips or patches on the bag which will make your child more visible during low light conditions or while crossing roads.

Additional Features

Some backpacks come with additional features such as multiple compartments or external pockets which can come in handy for organizing items like stationery or snacks. However, keep in mind that too many compartments may lead to confusion or overloading of the bag.

Price

Backpacks range in price from affordable options to high-end ones with advanced features. While it may be tempting to splurge on an expensive one, keep in mind that children outgrow things quickly, so investing in an expensive bag may not be practical.

In conclusion, finding the perfect backpack for a 5 year old requires considering factors such as size, comfort, durability, design, safety features and price. It may take some time and effort but choosing the right one will ensure your child’s comfort and safety while carrying their belongings to school or any other activities they have planned.

Author Profile

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Kenan Pala
Kenan Pala, a junior at Yale University, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for venture capital, private equity, sports technology, and web3. Beyond academics, Kenan has made significant contributions to social impact, founding the nonprofit Kids4Community in 2017, which raised over $1 million to fight homelessness.

His athletic achievements are equally impressive. Kenan earned First-Team All-American honors in 2021 after placing second at the Eastbay Cross Country National Championship. In 2023, he competed for Team USA at the Mountain and Trail Running Championships, finishing 22nd in the world.

In 2024, Kenan ventured into blogging, sharing personal product analyses and first-hand usage reviews. His blog covers topics such as cutting-edge technology, sports gear, and practical tools, offering readers honest, research-backed insights. Kenan’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and inspiring others defines his unique and impactful journey.