Backpacks--where besides LL Bean or PBK?? and what size?

NicoleWI

I know that this was posted a couple weeks ago, but I didn't save the thread. I finally decided to look at backpacks and most of the options we liked at LL Bean and PBK are sold out. Where else do you get backpacks that aren't super cheap and going to fall apart in two weeks?

Also, if we did get PBK for a kindergartener hopefully to use for a couple years, would we get the large? They come in mini, small, large and rolling.

I'm starting to think of just getting a cheap one and then she can get a different one for 1st grade, which she might like to do anyway.

Spin313

I got DS a regular old backpack from Toys R Us and it held up to kindergarten abuse. It's in good shape and he'll use it again for first grade.

superToots

I'm curious too

littlemermaid

Lands' End are good quality too.

Twiggymommy

I would get a relatively cheap one from toys r us, or Walmart. Kindergarteners beat up backpacks lol. Even if you do get a nice one it may not be usable by the time she hits first grade!

mandymack

Emily's Garnet Hill backpack lasted 3 years and would've lasted longer had she not outgrown the print on it.

We ordered a rolling backpack from PBK because all her friends are getting one. Help me, it's already starting...

Angela814

We just bought dd1 a backpack from Garnet Hill. It seems to be really good quality, and right now it comes with a free matching lunch bag. Her first backpack was from LE (size M) and lasted K-3rd grade. She could still use it again but wanted something new.

Angela814

She got this one in teal floral.
https://m.garnethill.com/products/302683?categoryId=107503&path=~backpack~kids-backpacks~backpacks-age-7-up~

Andrewsgal

Twiggymommy said:

I would get a relatively cheap one from toys r us, or Walmart. Kindergarteners beat up backpacks lol. Even if you do get a nice one it may not be usable by the time she hits first grade!

Nope not true in fact just the opposite is true. A good quality back pack can last years. Instead of being disposable like the cheap ones.

alisonc87

FWIW, If you can hold out for an LL Bean (even if you get a cheap backpack for this year, and get the one you like when it is back in stock), they have a lifetime guarantee. If the zipper breaks, it get a hole, broken straps, even if it is caused by normal wear and tear, they will replace it with a new one. Also, if it happens and you are ready to upgrade to a bigger size anyway, or want a different style, you just pay the difference. I am from Maine, so I pretty much live in LL Bean, and have the luxury of the outlet stores being fairly close by, so that helps me get them more reasonably, but even at full price they are worth every dime. 

KMommytobe

We ordered our 3 yr old an LL Bean juniors backpack a few days ago. It's set to arrive on Friday. My friend (3 kids) loves LL Bean and has said their backpacks hold up amazingly well and their customer service is superb.