A flap backpack is any backpack that has a “lid” on top that covers the main compartment opening. This design was made popular by the canvas rucksack – a classic barebones bag that predates the modern backpack.
Today, many backpack brands today offer their own version of the classic canvas rucksack with updated features such as laptop compartments, special pockets and unique colors.
In this list we will help you find the best flap backpack for school and introduce you to some of our favorite brands.
Best Flap Backpacks for School
Topo Designs Rover Pack
Topo Designs
Equipped with a padded 15” laptop sleeve, plenty of storage pockets and a 20-liter main compartment for books and binders, the Topo Designs Rover Pack is one of the best school backpacks for those looking for a tough and reliable bag to lug around on campus. This buckle flap backpack even comes in dozens of different colors so you are bound to find one you absolutely love!
Fjallraven Foldsack No. 1 Backpack
The Fjallraven Foldsack No. 1 is a top flap backpack that keeps things simple yet stylish. Its highly water resistant design makes it a great choice if you are looking for a bag that can survive rainy days on campus. This is thanks to the Foldsack’s top flap construction made out of G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco water resistant fabric.
Vera Bradley Utility Backpack
The Vera Bradley Utility Backpack is the perfect option for anyone looking for a compact drawstring flap backpack for school, weekends and travel. With a 15-liter internal capacity, the Utility Backpack is large enough for light school loads such as a laptop and a few notebooks and binders. Plenty of pockets line the outside for quick access to pens, calculators and smaller personal items.
Kavu Timaru Backpack
Made to thrive both outdoors and on campus, the Kavu Timaru backpack isn’t your average school book bag. Not only can you expect fun Kavu aesthetics but its design really sets it apart from other canvas flap backpacks by offering quick side zipper access to the main compartment so that you don’t need to “unflap” the flap every time. Other great features include side water bottle pockets, multiple external stash pockets and a roomy and comfy contoured shoulder straps for all day wear.
Large main compartment
Rucksacks have the advantage of having large main compartments that are great for storing large school books, binders, clothing and a lunch. You can take advantage of a flap backpack for school with a large open main compartment if find yourself lugging around lots of stuff and could use the room.
If you are not sure if a backpack is going to be too big or too small for your needs check out our backpack size guide for a better look at what can fit inside 20L, 25L and 30L size backpacks.
Laptop and Tech Compartment
Today’s modern student needs a modern backpack that can protect their laptop, tablet and tech accessories. Most flap backpacks today have special laptop compartments or padded sleeves for your laptop and tablet. When choosing a vintage style flap backpack, make sure that the pockets are updated to carry your tech with confidence.
Water resistant
One major advantage of a flap backpack over a regular zippered backpack is that the lid offers additional protection from the elements since it covers the main compartment opening. If you want additional water resistance you can go with a canvas flap backpack since canvas is naturally water resistant. Other great materials are leather, nylon and fabrics that have a special coating on them to actively repel water.
We have an entire list of the best waterproof backpacks for college that you can take a look at if owning a highly water resistance school backpack is a priority.
