15 best backpacks for medical school

15 Best Backpacks For Medical School

Learn how to study twice as fast with Our fREE studying course

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may get a commission if you make a purchase through my link at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Planning on getting a new backpack for medical school? Want to know what the best backpacks for medical school are? I got you covered in this post!

Pack light isn’t a thing in medical school – I got my laptop, tablet, notebooks, pen, and a whole lot of supplies that give me an illusion of being fully equipped every class.

If you’re looking for the best backpacks for medical school, I’ll provide you with suggestions that do not just keep your things organized and handy, but could also be afforded within the budget!

I got here some brands, what to love about them, and tips on choosing the best backpacks for medical school.

In no particular order, check out my best backpacks for medical school list!

[Free Download] Want to have everything you need to be a top student on your medical journey? Get FREE access to our Med School Success Handbook to get 60+ tips including the best study, time management, mindset tips you need to be a top student. Download it here. 

Best Backpacks For Medical Students on a Budget

1. Vancropak Water-Resistant College Backpack

Travel Laptop Backpack,Business Water Resistant Anti-Theft College Middle School Computer Bag with USB Charging Port for Men Womens Boys Girls Gifts Fits 15.6 Inch Laptop,Grey

Water-Resistant College Backpack by Vancropak is a multi-purpose bag that’s not just cool for medical students, but for any college gals and dudes out there wanting a high-quality bag design.

You can also check my other articles on the best books, laptops, and tablets you may want to put in your soon-to-be one of the best backpacks in medical school.

Features:

  • Made up of water-resistant canvas to keep you cool and dry
  • Linings in the bag provide additional durability
  • Multi-functional purpose containing many pockets for books, laptops, study supplies
  • Has a USB port where you could charge your devices conveniently without the need to open the bag
  • Its wide shoulder straps keep you comfy and at ease

Pros:

  • Water-resistant, sturdy, and durable
  • Lightweight which makes it good for everyday use with minimal commute
  • USB port for charging
  • Smooth zipper

Cons:

  • Smaller than average
  • Port requires a portable charger

What Do People Think About The Vancropak Water-Resistant College Backpack?

“I’m super satisfied!

I’m a college student and was looking for something that was sturdy enough to hold my laptop and my books, but also sleek in design and that wasn’t too complicated. This is perfect and I can fit all my essentials easily. It is water-resistant so it keeps everything important (especially my electronics like my camera and laptop) dry. This backpack also has a really cool charging feature where you can hook up a power bank to charge your phone or any other device you have that can be charged via USB.”

How Much is The Vancropak Water-Resistant College Backpack?

Currently, it costs $14.99.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Vancropak’s Water-Resistant College Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

2. MATEIN Slim Travel Backpack

Matein Slim Laptop Backpack, Anti-Theft Travel Backpack Fits 15 Inch Laptop, Water Resistant Business Backpack with USB Charging Port for Men, College School Bookbag for Student for Boys and Girl

Never underestimate its slim design. This Travel Backpack by MATEIN keeps your valuables safe, organized, and secured.

Features:

  • Theft-proof design through its high-end combination lock with a lockable zipper to protect your things and keep them in place when traveling
  • The durable/water-resistant polyester material helps to keep your stuff dry
  • Slim and lightweight which makes it comfortable to carry
  • The shoulder straps created with an anti-sweat feature does not just make carrying comfy, but so you keep your shoulders clean and dry
  • Created with large compartments to store even huge items such as books, tablets, and laptop
  • There are also smaller inside pockets with velcro straps special for smaller personal items.
  • It contains a USB port where you could charge your devices conveniently outside the bag.
  • Has a built-in charging cable inside that lets you plug your gadgets even while walking

Pros:

  • Affordable yet has a lot of features
  • Slim design
  • Built with a USB charging port

Cons:

  • Cheap zipper
  • Charging port requires a battery pack to function.

What Do People Think ABout MATEIN Slim Travel Backpack?

“Amazing for the price, you can spend 2x or 3x more and not get as much quality or features

  • Quality – great stitching, no loose threads, or ugly/weak stitching that I can see after a couple weeks of use
  • Material – nice water-resistant material, premium feel and look. Zippers are also high quality and seem to be durable.
  • Features – the USB plug on the side of the backpack works nicely and keeps you from having a random wire from your portable charger coming out from one of your zippers.

Overall, I do honestly believe that you will have a very, very difficult time finding a better looking or a better quality travel/office bag for the amount of money this bag will cost you.”

How Much is The MATEIN Slim Travel Backpack?

Currently it costs $27.99. You can find the updated price here.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Slim Travel Backpack by MATEIN here.

See Reviews On Amazon

Want Results Like This?

Download The Free Med School Success Handbook For The Best Step-By-Step Tips For Your Medical Journey!

3. Laptop Outdoor Backpack by KAUKKO

Travel Laptop Backpack, Outdoor Rucksack, School backpack Fits 15.6

The Laptop Outdoor Backpack by KAUKKO is made up of durable 6000 polyester fabric making it the most resilient yet comfortable in my list.

It’s a good rucksack perfect for medical school and your outdoor escapades.

Features:

  • Water-resistant and highly-resilient fabric composition
  • Multi-purpose bag, not just good for your class attendance, but also other agendas such as business, hiking, traveling, etc.
  • Huge storage capacity as it can handle a 15’ laptop, books, and other valuables
  • Front pockets have hidden key clip and zipper for security
  • The shoulder straps are padded and designed air mesh to ensure comfort and ease.
  • Adjustable drawstring closure at the main compartment
  • Includes a 6-month warranty, 30-day, and 60-day return and exchange policies, respectively

Pros:

  • Fashionable and practical
  • Perfect for many occasions – school and outdoor activities
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Great side pockets

Cons:

  • Magnets in the closures are not so sturdy

What Do People Think About Laptop Outdoor Backpack by KAUKKO?

“Love this bag

It’s simple and looks great. One of the best backpacks in medical school. There is a velvet-like lined laptop sleeve in the bag as well, which is a nice inclusion. The top flap is a little smaller than the other very similar bags Amazon offers, which was a big selling point for me. This makes the bag appear less bulky. Side pockets can fit my water bottles. The straps and the back portion of the bag have padding, which is a welcome feature that I wasn’t expecting at this price.”

How Much is The Laptop Outdoor Backpack by KAUKKO?

Currently, the cost is $38.99. You can see if the price has changed here.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Laptop Outdoor Backpack by KAUKKO here.

See Reviews On Amazon

4. XD Design Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack

XD Design Bobby Original Anti-Theft Laptop USB Backpack Grey (Unisex Bag)

What could be more durable than the Anti-Theft Laptop backpack by XD Design? It’s cut-proof and equipped with high-quality safety features that keep sneaky thieves away.

Features:

  • Safety features include secret pockets and hidden zippers
  • Has illuminating safety strips that help you track your backpack in the dark especially while you’re walking and crossing down the road
  • With shock-proof design accounting for its reliable durability and organization keeping your items upright even you toss your bag around.
  • Its water-resistant fabric keeps your bag dry especially during rainy days
  • Has a built-in USB port you could use for convenient charging

Pros:

  • Good if you’re always carrying expensive items
  • Safe and practical even at crowded places
  • Highly-compact and made in good quality
  • Water-resistant

Cons:

  • Small storage space
  • Hard to close zippers

What Do People Think About XD Design Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack?

“Compact yes! But still a great bag.

Everything I needed, including my textbooks, was on my small laptop, so the design worked for me. I am pleased with the bag because it is very difficult to get into easily from behind. The zipper for the main compartment can also be secured with a small lock if necessary. I have been able to fit the following in this bag at one time: 11-inch chrome book, 1 subject spiral notebook, 2 file folders, one 5 inch portable charger, one chrome book charger, small bottle of vitamins, backpack cover, wallet, iPhone, and one square lunch bag containing (2 cubed sandwiches), 1 bottle of water, and 2 snack bars.”

How Much is The XD Design Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack?

It costs $95.00. A bit more expensive than the prior best backpacks for medical school, but higher in quality as well!

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Anti-Theft Laptop backpack by XD Design here.

See Reviews On Amazon

[Free Download] Want to have everything you need to be a top student on your medical journey? Get FREE access to our Med School Success Handbook to get 60+ tips including the best study, time management, mindset tips you need to be a top student. Download it here. 

5. 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack by Swissgear

SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack (Black)

The 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack guarantees a sturdy carrier for your medical school supplies and gadgets.

Features:

  • Created out of water-resistant and durable 1200D ballistic polyester so it can withstand heavy-duty use and tough weather conditions
  • It has a huge capacity for your 17” laptop, notebooks, books, water bottle, etc.
  • Has a U-zip compartment for easy access
  • The back panel is padded and built in a way that promotes airflow ventilation.
  • Shoulder straps have adjustable side compressions to boost efficiency.

Pros:

  • Good for travelers
  • Very durable backpack
  • Comfy and convenient
  • Huge storage capacity for your books, laptops, and tablets

Cons:

  • Poor zipper quality

What Do People Think About 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack by Swissgear?

 “Best bag ever

I was skeptical about it at first, but I’ve been using it for a few months now and I still love it. It’s great for both travel and everyday use! It’s huge, but not bulky. I love the laptop compartment and the file folder storage sleeves. I’ve carried the following at one time with no problem: 15.6″ Lenovo laptop, 11.6″ Chromebook, a notebook and novel size book, multiple file folders, and 3 days worth of clothing. Great bag and worth the investment!”

How Much is The 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack by Swissgear?

It costs $59.99 as of this writing.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack by Swissgear here.

See Reviews On Amazon

6. The North Face Recon Backpack

The North Face Recon Laptop Backpack, Aviator Navy/Meld Grey, One Size

If you want a high-quality medical school backpack specially designed for women, then this is for you. One of the best backpacks for medical school, The North Face Recon Backpack is all about style, durability, and efficiency.

Features:

  • Made of 210D Cordura nylon that makes it sturdy and durable
  • Tear-proof through its mini-ripstop
  • Built with a FlexVent suspension system and shoulder straps which include attachment points specially designed for a woman’s torso
  • Padded back panel mimics the spinal curvature for a better ergonomic fit and support
  • Has an adequate capacity plus front stash pockets and side panels for extra volume
  • Laptop sleeve is padded and the front tablet sleeve is fleeced-lined to handle your device with protection

Pros:

Cons:

  • Fabric is thin
  • Very basic design

What Do People Think About The North Face Recon Backpack?

“Back to school I go…

Backpack is soft, durable, fits 4 thick textbooks, paper & other items easily. It has a spot for my laptop/iPad that fits perfectly in. I love the liner of the pockets – soft fleece! The colors are Grey with Teal, and the straps are thick but comfortable. Lots of pockets for the small items (change, keys..etc..) and can expand to accommodate more as needed. I love this backpack!!”

How Much is The North Face Recon Backpack?

It costs $112.99.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own The North Face Recon Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

Want Results Like This?

Download The Free Med School Success Handbook For The Best Step-By-Step Tips For Your Medical Journey!

7. Yorepek Student Backpack

Extra Large Backpack, TSA Friendly Travel Laptop Computer Backpack Gifts for Men Women with USB Charging Port,School Bookbag Fits 17 Inch Laptops,Black

Are you a medical student who loves to travel? The Yorepek Student Backpack is one of the best backpacks in medical on a budget with yet high-quality rucksack you could carry with ease anywhere.

Features:

  • Built with a TSA-friendly feature helps you to get through airport security without the need to remove your gadgets
  • Has an external USB port and headphones hole to allow charging and listening to your favorite music jam conveniently
  • Have extra side zippered pouches and two elastic mesh pockets
  • There are adjustable side compressions straps that you could adjust when necessary.

Pros:

  • Large room space for your gadgets
  • Built-in USB charger port

Cons:

  • Zippers for large compartments may not be sturdy
  • Interior’s material might not be sturdy vs the exterior

What Do People Think About Yorepek Student Backpack?

“So much better than expected; this is a tremendous backpack

LOVE this backpack! I bought this for a cross-country trip and wanted to use it as my carry-on. I have used it every day since my new “briefcase.” This is one of the best backpacks in medical school, it fits my laptop & charging cord, files, makeup, gym clothes, and shoes with tons of room to spare. I absolutely LOVE it……I will even keep my purse in it and just take my purse out if I have after-work drinks or dinner.”

How Much is Yorepek Student Backpack?

It costs $36.99.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Yorepek Student Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

8. Muzee Student Backpack

Canvas Backpack Lightweight Travel Daypack Student Rucksack Laptop Backpack

For those who love a creative design that brings only essential items without needing extra storage spaces, the Muzee Student Backpack best suits you.

Features:

  • A creatively designed backpack
  • Serves as a rucksack for your bigger stuff such as books, laptops, and tablets
  • Built with a large capacity plus a dedicated laptop compartment
  • Designed with side pocket
  • Comes with an external USB charging port

Pros:

  • Cool design
  • Adequate capacity to carry more books

Cons:

  • Overall material and straps may not be durable
  • Zipper may get easily stuck

What Do People Think About Muzee Student Backpack?

“Best backpack for all occasions!

Honestly best looking comfortable backpack. I have a 15-inch laptop that fits perfectly in the laptop pocket. Slim and I can tell it’s a good quality product. I highly recommend it!!!!”

How Much Is The Muzee Student Backpack?

It costs $34.99.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Muzee Student Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

9. Aspen Student Backpack

best backpacks for medical school

Another one of the best backpacks for medical school, Aspen Student Backpack provides adequate storage space for your huge stuff without compromising safety.

Features:

  • Prioritizes convenience through its high-frequency headphone hole and card pocket
  • Built with an anti-theft buckle to protect your belongings
  • Includes an external USB charging port

Pros:

  • Lightweight design
  • Easy-to-carry and convenient
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Has several pockets

Cons:

  • Has only one compartment which may not organize your gadgets and books

What Do People Think About The Aspen Student Backpack?

“ Lightweight, good quality, well design functional pockets

Very satisfied with this bag! I’m trying to find a perfect size bag that can fit my husband’s everyday use which includes a huge and heavy computer and sometimes a lot of paper documents which are also heavy. That brings to my second requirement for a perfect bag, which is lightweight. Now, we finally found the perfect bag!!!!! Lightweight but do carry a lot!!! I definitely will recommend other friends buying it!!!!!!!”

How Much Is The Aspen Student Backpack?

It costs $15.99.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Aspen Student Backpack here.

[Free Download] Want to have everything you need to be a top student on your medical journey? Get FREE access to our Med School Success Handbook to get 60+ tips including the best study, time management, mindset tips you need to be a top student. Download it here. 

10. eBags Professional Slim Junior Laptop Backpack

eBags Pro Slim Jr Laptop Backpack (Heathered Graphite)

Stay classy and organized with eBags Professional Slim Junior Laptop Backpack. It is one of the best backpacks for medical school. Your medical supplies will surely be held in the right place.

Features:

  • Designed with several extremely organized pockets for your items
  • Attend school with style through its high-end professional look
  • Unquestionable durability and comfort from its fabric and designed with an air-mesh padded back panel
  • Laptop and tablet compartments are lockable keeping them extra safe
  • Padded laptop sleeve can fit up to 15.75” laptop
  • Made of crush-proof exterior to protect your fragile gadgets while traveling

Pros:

  • Lightweight and comfy
  • Easy to Organize
  • Sturdy materials
  • Slim profile and good design

Cons:

  • Compartment may not be enough to store laptop and books together

What Do People Think About The eBags Professional Slim Junior Laptop Backpack?

“Great capacity in a compact size

Bag is very new but I’ve already used it for a week and had to deal with heavy rain on the second day. I was extremely surprised at how well the material shed the water and kept all my belongings dry. Albeit the bag isn’t advertised as waterproof, the material is very water repellent. The size of the bag is exactly what I wanted. I can fit several gadgets and wires. I have a 14″ laptop which is a bit on the heavier side and the weight is very well balanced.”

How Much Is The eBags Professional Slim Junior Laptop Backpack?

It costs $67.44.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own eBags Professional Slim Junior Laptop Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

11. Kipling Seoul L Solid Laptop Backpack

Seoul L Solid Laptop Backpack, Black

Durable on the outside and spacious on the inside, the Kipling Seoul L Solid Laptop Backpack is indeed one of the best backpacks for medical school.

Features:

  • Has water bottle pockets
  • Lightweight and built with padded shoulder straps
  • Made of durable fabric
  • Adequate space for your books, laptops, and tablets
  • Has an exclusive protective sleeve for your laptop
  • Designed with several zip-front pockets in which you could organize your pen, phone, slips, and other essentials

Pros:

  • Lightweight and comfy
  • Durable fabric
  • Main compartment has a lot of room

Cons:

  • Zipper issues

What Do People Think About Kipling Seoul L Solid Backpack?

“Highly recommended!

This is EXACTLY what I have always looked for in a backpack. Perfect amount of compartments and cushioned encasement for my MacBook. It has three zippered compartments. The main compartment is super roomy. I carry my laptop, an iPad, a kindle, a clipboard, a 48-pc pen roll, three journals, two notebooks, two diapers, a pack of wipes, and there is still plenty of room. It holds the weight well and doesn’t hurt my shoulders. Perfect!”

How Much Is The Kipling Seoul L Solid Backpack?

It costs $109.99

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Kipling Seoul L Solid Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

12. Mancro Student Backpack

Mancro Laptop Backpack, Business Water Resistant Laptop bag Backpack Gift for Men Women with USB Charging Port, Anti Theft College School Bookbag, Travel Computer Bag for 15.6 Inch Laptops,Grey

Another water-resistant backpack, Mancro Student Backpack is a stylish and classy bag for men and women.

Features:

  • Slim design
  • Built with a USB charging port
  • Has adequate space for a 17” laptop
  • Contains a variety of pockets inside and out

Pros:

  • Durable and waterproof material perfect for all weather conditions
  • Large compartment for your gadgets and school supplies
  • Built-in USB charging port
  • Comfy and lightweight

Cons:

  • Shoulder straps tend to get loose

What Do People Think About The Mancro Student Backpack?

“Perfect for me.

It’s a perfect size to hold things, but not so huge that it’s obnoxious to tote around. The front slanted pocket is perfect for quick finds like my gloves/ID for work, and the inside pockets are what I use for my wallet/phone. The included lock is meh, but it didn’t really matter as I had bag locks anyway. The material feels strong and well made, and the zippers caught my attention. They’re solid and won’t break anytime soon. The side pouches are a nice touch for waters/things you need right away. Awesome awesome awesome bag!!”

How Much Is The Mancro Student Backpack?

It costs $16.99.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Mancro Student Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

Want Results Like This?

Download The Free Med School Success Handbook For The Best Step-By-Step Tips For Your Medical Journey!

13. ProEtrade Backpack

Backpack Bookbag for School College Student Sturdy Travel Business Laptop Compartment with USB Charging Port Luggage Chest Straps Night Light Reflective (Navy Blue)

ProEtrade Backpack is your sturdy book bag specially designed to carry huge medical school supplies in the most convenient way possible.

Features:

  • Includes a padded sleeve that could fit up to a 15.6” laptop
  • The front compartment contains inner zipped pockets for your documents, tablets, and other on-the-go essentials.
  • Contains two water bottle side pockets
  • Shoulder straps are designed with an ergonomic S-curve.

Pros:

  • Durable material with padded compartments
  • Three main compartments are spacious enough to organize your stuff.
  • The lining is waterproof.
  • Velcro-strapped pockets

Cons:

  •  Zipper issues–gets easily stuck or broken

What Do People Think About The ProEtrade Backpack?

“Great College Backpack

Overall the backpack is made of a durable, lightweight material and has padded compartments, especially for the laptop pocket. It also has a velcro strap to keep the laptop in place inside the pocket. The other pockets all seem to be sized well enough for books and notebooks. There are smaller pockets for pens, keys, etc. Overall a very nice backpack that I’d recommend for school or other activities.”

How Much Is The ProEtrade Backpack?

It costs $33.99.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own ProEtrade Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

14. Tocode Student Backpack

Tocode Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port & Headphone Port, 17-Inch Fashional Computer School Backpack Water Resistant Business Bag Black Anti-theft Travel Backpacks for Men Women

Comes with a comfortable and breathable design, Tocode Student Backpack carries your medical belongings hassle-free.

Features:

  • Shoulder straps are designed with air-mesh breathable padding for comfort.
  • Made of heavy-duty water-resistant Oxford fabric
  • Huge capacity up to 35L
  • Built with an external USB port for charging

Pros:

  • Large and padded space for a 17” laptop
  • Durable material
  • Comfy with good ergonomics
  • Have a lock for safety

Cons:

  • Port is only easy access to charge
  • Lesser pockets vs others
  • Some experienced defective zipper

What Do People Think About The Tocode Student Backpack?

Love this pack

So far I can’t find anything bad to say about this pack. It looks good, nice and large, and the padded straps make it comfortable to wear with a full pack. I was carrying a small backpack and a briefcase to work and was looking to eliminate having two things to carry, yet would fit all my stuff. It holds all my work papers, laptop, my lunch bag, and the smaller compartments for odds and ends. I was pleasantly surprised by how great this pack is.”

How Much Is The Tocode Student Backpack?

It costs $34.99.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own Tocode Student Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

15. FLYMEI Laptop Backpack

flymei

Like the other best backpacks for medical school, FLYMEI Laptop Backpack is a waterproof bag that does not just provide you enough storage space, but also protects your bag from thieves.

Features:

  • Comes with a password lock
  • Built with a headset interface and a USB charging port
  • Waterproof and highly durable Oxford fabric
  • Shoulder straps are adjustable and have S-curve pads with air-mesh design for maximum back support

Pros:

  • Large capacity for books, laptops, and tablets
  • USB charging port and headset interface
  • Built-in password lock for extra security

Cons:

  • Smaller vs other backpacks listed
  • Zipper get loose

What Do People Think About The FLYMEI Laptop Backpack?

“Best Backpack Out

If you need a really good and secure school bag this is the one!!! As a college student I need to bring certain electronics with me to work on projects. The material of the bag is thick and tough. Not likely to tear even after you’ve stuffed it with heavy books. The super-duper major upside is the portable charging/headphone station built into the side. I’m telling you whoever came up with that idea needs a raise ASAP!!!”

How Much Is The FLYMEI Laptop Backpack?

It costs $24.19.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own FLYMEI Laptop Backpack here.

Best Backpacks For Medical School – Final Recommendation

“The best backpack for medical school” award goes to…

The North Face Recon Backpack!

The North Face Recon Laptop Backpack, Aviator Navy/Meld Grey, One Size

Disregarding its basic design and focusing on functionality, The North Face Recon Backpack, I suggest, is the best overall.

Though it’s designed for women, it fits for every medical student who wants a high-quality backpack.

Its high-end material – 210D Cordura Nylon – is superior among the others. This material is the most durable and tear-proof.

Not to mention its large capacity for all your essential medical school supplies.

You can check out the North Face pack here!

See Reviews On Amazon

[Free Download] Want to have everything you need to be a top student on your medical journey? Get FREE access to our Med School Success Handbook to get 60+ tips including the best study, time management, mindset tips you need to be a top student. Download it here. 

FAQ About Backpacks For Med School

Here are some commonly asked questions and tips that I wanted to answer for you!

Tips For Buying A Backpack For Med School

Buying the right backpack for medical school is not an easy task especially when there are tons of brands out there with almost the same features.

As for me, I consider the following to arrive at the perfect bag to keep me well-equipped.

1. Compartments/Pockets

The size, number, and types of compartments matter.

Since med school requires a lot of resources to study, I choose compartments that are large enough to store your laptop and textbooks.

These compartments allotted for gadgets should be padded to serve as protection from damage.

Aside from big compartments, the small ones are essential too. They put your small to medium-sized stuff like pens, notebooks, umbrellas, and water bottles in place.

2. Safety Features

Never neglect safety features.

I always carry gadgets. So for my peace of mind’s sake and keep away my stuff from sneaky thieves, I make sure that my bag has reliable safety features.

You may look for backpacks with combination locks for extra protection, illuminating strips to make your bag visible in the dark, and lastly hidden compartments for your valuables like keys and wallets.

3.  Material

Perhaps, the most important of all and dictates the quality of a bag – the material. The best backpacks for medical school is made out of high-quality material. The bag’s durability and weight depends on where it is made of.

Here are some options to help you decide:

Water-resistant

Since the weather nowadays is fickle, you need to get prepared and keep your things dry and safe whether it’s sunny and rainy days.

Rip-stop Nylon

Lightweight and waterproof, nylon protects your backpack.

Cordura

Like nylon, this material is lightweight and tear-resistant. Perhaps, I consider it the most durable of all. Only that it comes at an expensive price.

Cotton Canvas

A heavy cotton material that’s highly durable. It’s a hybrid of natural and synthetic materials for improved strength and water-resistance.

If you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality material, perhaps this is the best material yet.

4. Warranty

Your backpack is an investment. It would be with you for the rest of your journey in medical school. Better buy a bag that offers a comprehensive and long warranty.

5. Price/Value

Since I mentioned that backpacks are worth the cost, get a high-quality affordable bag. Midrange backpacks can cost around $50-100.

Buying cheaper ones without ensuring its quality might just lead you to spending more than you should have.

Want Results Like This?

Download The Free Med School Success Handbook For The Best Step-By-Step Tips For Your Medical Journey!

How Big Of A Backpack Do You Need For Med School?

An important factor to consider before purchasing a backpack for medical school is its size. Is it big enough to provide adequate space for the essential stuff you need to bring every day in school?

Larger ones might be too heavy but smaller ones might not be enough. The size of your bag should depend on what you intend to put in it.

If you always carry huge items and gadgets such as laptops and textbooks, make sure to buy bags large enough for these valuables. Make sure that the bag is designed with exclusive compartments or these.

Compartmentalization makes your stuff organized and easily accessible.

If you’re just the type who lives the heavy and huge items at home, perhaps it’s fine buying a lightweight backpack. This is good for your on-the-go mundane hustle.

Messenger Or Backpack For Med School?

A lot of medical students are asking whether a messenger bag is better than a backpack in medical school.

There’s no one type of bag that’s perfect for all medical students in the world. It all depends on your personal preference.

Here is some information on the difference between a messenger and a backpack:

1.Weight and Space

Messenger bags are just as spacious as backpacks. But if you’ve been fond of carrying books and laptops daily, you might end up straining your shoulders. In this instance, a backpack is more preferable since it helps in distributing weight across your back. Besides, the backpack has more interior compartments than messenger bags.

2. Accessibility

If you’re the kind who wants to access things within a snap, a messenger bag would work for you.

Since your messenger bag is just hanging by your side, you could easily and quickly grab things you needed at that moment.

Unlike a backpack, you need to open zippers or passwords locks to access stuff you needed in a hurry. Although, there are some backpacks designed with side pockets that could easily give you what you need.

3. How You Commute

Finding ease while traveling with a bag is important.

If you’re commuting daily and bustling around roads and from one public transportation to another, then you might need a bag that would distribute its weight and help you travel without any strain. Padded back panel with airflow mesh would be a good idea.

4. Style

Messenger bags make you look like a professional especially when it is made up of leather.

Whereas backpacks give the sporty yet comfy look. Your bag serves as an accessory to all your outfits. Choose what you feel suitable and stylish.

5. Comfort

If you carry heavy loads every day, might as well get a backpack with padded straps, better yet get one with a waist strap. Messenger bags have adjustable shoulder pads. Though they’re good for lifting loads, it’s not best for the heavy ones.

[Free Download] Want to have everything you need to be a top student on your medical journey? Get FREE access to our Med School Success Handbook to get 60+ tips including the best study, time management, mindset tips you need to be a top student. Download it here. 

What Is The Best Backpack For Residency?

When you’re a resident doctor, you may have already passed the boards but studying doesn’t stop there. What makes it different is that you’re already on the frontlines taking care of patients.

Get a bag that’s not only perfect for reviewing special concepts, but also for taking swift action in the clinical setting.

Here’s my recommended residency bag.

TIMBUK2 Authority Laptop Backpack

TIMBUK2 Authority Laptop Backpack, Fog

Features:

  • The main compartment is huge enough for your 17” books, laptops, and clothes
  • Smaller pockets could also be used to organize little stuff such as keys, pens, and notepads for easy access when you need to take patient history in a jiffy
  • Exterior is stretchable
  • Designed with neoprene side pockets for your water bottle or umbrella
  • The base has dual purpose compression straps for comfort and weight distribution

Pros:

  • Compact and organized
  • Large compartment for books, laptops, and tablets
  • Durable material
  • Extra pockets for small essentials

Cons:

  • Top external pocket is small
  • There is only 1 small zippered pocket out of many

What Do People Think About The TIMBUK2 Authority Laptop Backpack?

” This backpack is pretty amazing. Lots of pockets and storage for random …

As a developer who likes to carry lots of gadgets with me, this backpack is pretty amazing. Lots of pockets and storage for random things I use and it even has a water bottle holder. Solid material and love the design. Highly recommended!”

How Much Is The TIMBUK2 Authority Laptop Backpack?

It costs $65.27.

If you like its features and design, you may grab your very own TIMBUK2 Authority Laptop Backpack here.

See Reviews On Amazon

[Free Download] Want to have everything you need to be a top student on your medical journey? Get FREE access to our Med School Success Handbook to get 60+ tips including the best study, time management, mindset tips you need to be a top student. Download it here. 


Invest in the best backpacks for medical school that suit your preference. They will come handy and useful throughout your journey as a medical doctor. They would carry your essentials to survive medical school.

If you also have been thinking of the things you’re going to put inside, then it’s better to carry only the best resources you needed for medical school.

You can check my other articles on the best books, laptops, and tablets you never want to miss for your MD journey.

Thank you for reading this post on the best backpacks for medical school. I hope you found it enjoyable and helpful.

If you liked this post, check out some of our blog posts!

Top 10 Best Gadgets For Medical Students
How To Study in Medical School [Ultimate Guide]
How To Study For Step 1 [Get a 250+]
Top 5 Stethoscopes For Medical Students
Top 30 Gifts For Med Students
6 Best Ophthalmoscopes For Medical Students
Top 10 Best Headphones For Medical School [Full Breakdown]
What Does A First Year Med Student Need? [Supplies And Equipment]

Want Results Like This?

Download The Free Med School Success Handbook For The Best Step-By-Step Tips For Your Medical Journey!

Again, thanks for stopping by!

Until next time my friend…

1 thought on “15 Best Backpacks For Medical School”

  1. I am a medical student and I am in the third year of of my study. I was searching for the best backpack that would be great for me for adjustments of laptop and my books.
    All these backpacks are great but I like Timbuk2 because of its design as it is the most stylish backpack.
    Thanks for sharing this.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *