The Top Work and School Bags at Penn, an Evaluation

My school bag is somewhat of an afterthought, even though it literally holds my life together, from my laptop to my mid-class snacks. Unfortunately, my trusty Vera Bradley leather backpack that served me throughout high school recently gave out. In looking for another bag, I had to look at some of the most popular options on campus.

I consulted my friends who owned these bags to test them, and I’ll be reviewing a few based on functionality, appearance, and value. Then, I’ll delve into some cute AND budget-friendly options I have seen sported around campus.

Goyard Saint Louis Tote

Functionality: 5/10

Appearance: 7/10

Value: 2/10

You can buy it here!

This chic bag is a great luxury option. It comes in different sizes; I tried the GM. From an appearance perspective, it is in the typical Goyardine canvas print which I think is cute, but maybe a bit loud. It is also commonly duped, which may take away some of the appeal.

From a functionality standpoint, it was big enough to fit everything anyone needs and is very light. However, this is also a downside as it doesn’t hold its shape unless it is full, and a heavy item like a laptop can strongly sway the bag. A bag organizer is a must. In addition, it doesn’t have a zipper or any way to close it in case of rain, and the canvas, while coated, is not functionally waterproof in a Philly downpour.

That brings me to my final point on value. As a luxury bag, the $1900 price tag on the GM size is high for what you are getting. The bag is canvas, not leather, and is not hand-painted anymore (unless it is customized!). In addition, while acquiring one is a unique experience, it is not always the most smooth, as bags are only sold in stores and you often have to wait in lines to get them.

In sum, a Goyard tote will serve you well as a luxury purchase, but from a functionality standpoint, it may be better to keep a backup bag to protect your valuables on the most gusty or rainy days.

Longchamp Le Pliage

Functionality: 7/10

Appearance: 6/10

Value: 8/10

You can buy it here!

This bag is a great mid-range option. Functionally, this bag will protect your belongings. With a zippered top and double-layer nylon body, you can rest assured that even in the high-rise wind tunnel on a misty day, your belongings will be safe and dry even after a 20-minute trek to DRL. My biggest complaint is that especially in the larger size, this bag does not hold its shape at all. My laptop weighs down this bag a lot, making it very difficult to carry. After the zipper on my Le Pliage broke, I ended up repurposing it into a gym bag, which works surprisingly well.

From an appearance perspective, this bag is classic. Its simple design and broad range of colors make it a great choice if you want to vary your bag rotation. However, the leather flap can be a bit obnoxious, and some negatively attribute this bag to the early 2000s. And, in my opinion, when the bag fails to hold its shape, it becomes even more unattractive.

For $155, this bag is fairly good value. It will keep your items safe while looking pretty good, which is the purpose of a school bag at the end of the day.

North Face Jester

Functionality: 10/10

Appearance: 6/10

Value: 9/10

You can buy it here!

Onto our first backpack! This bag really does it all. Whether you want to take it hiking on a Wharton Leadership Venture, pack for a weekend away on Spirit Airlines, or just carry your laptop to a group project, this backpack has you covered. With compartmentalization to fit your laptop, iPad, and all your daily essentials, this backpack will keep your life together. With water resistance and great back support (as endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association), this backpack gets a functionality score of 10.

However, there are always trade-offs, and in this case, it’s appearance. Some of my finest outfits have been ruined by a backpack, especially this one which supports your back. Plus, it may not match the aesthetic of…most things that aren’t outdoorsy.

But that’s a minor complaint because this bag is a great value. At $75, this sturdy bag will serve you for all your needs for years to come. And who cares if your outfit is a little bit distracted? It’s school. And you’ll get the last laugh when you don’t have back issues, and all of your items are safe.

Fjallraven Kanken

Functionality: 7/10

Appearance: 8/10

Value: 7/10

You can buy it here!

This cutesy canvas backpack is a great way to make a backpack fun again. The boxy shape, smaller frame, coy fox logo, and variety of color options make this bag a compelling candidate for the “cutest backpack”.

From a functionality standpoint, I have some concerns. The fabric is not entirely waterproof, and the straps are not supportive or ergonomic. It’s also smaller than the other backpack choices and is more like a tote bag in terms of what it can carry.

On average, the backpacks are better value than the totes, and the Fjallraven is no exception. Coming in between $90-$130, this bag has all the cuteness of a tote bag but with all the functions of a backpack.

Ballin on a Budget: Best Bags under 60 Dollars

We get it, college students have a million different expenses to worry about, and finding a quality and affordable college backpack gives us one thing less to worry about! Here are a couple of my favorite picks.

Lulu Lemon– Everywhere Backpack 22L

Functionality: 8/10

Appearance: 7/10

Value: 10/10

You can buy it here!

At 59$, this backpack is a triple threat, serving as a gym, school, and work carry-on! Features include a water-resistant material, 16-inch built in laptop pad, and additional side and front pockets for your water and other everyday necessities!

TARGET Modern Work Tote Handbag - A New Day™

Functionality: 6/10

Appearance: 8/10

Value: 10/10

You can Buy it here!

At $45, this faux leather tote bag works great whether you are off to an interview, a study session, or a normal day of class. The sturdy and waterproof material will protect your things from the elements and provide a chic but simple outfit accessory.

Featured Image Courtesy of Pinterest