Best Backpacks Designed For Teen Art Students With Extra Pockets

Art supplies, pencils, sketchpads, brushes, and a water bottle can fill any bag quickly. If you’re searching for backpacks designed for teen art students with extra pockets, you’ve landed in the right place. We tested the latest models that keep your creativity tools organized, snug, and ready for whatever your day throws at you. Ready to find the ideal pack? Let’s dive in.

In this review we’ll cover five standout art backpacks, a comparison table, plus pro tips on picking the right size, fabric, and layout. Whether you sketch at home, hit class, or head to an art retreat, your gear will stay in place. You’ll discover options with dedicated brush sleeves, zippered paint rollers, and even hidden anti-theft pockets. By the end you’ll know which backpack matches your art style, commute, and budget.

Top Art Student Backpacks

JanSport Right Pack Art Edition

Key Features

• Durable waxed canvas body that resists scuffs and spills
• Spacious 27-liter main compartment fits sketchbooks up to 17 inches
• Front utility pocket with built-in organizer for pens, pencils, and brushes
• Side water bottle pocket and hidden side zipper pocket for valuables
• Padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for comfort

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Rugged construction keeps gear safe
• Extra brush sleeve in the front organizer
• Classic design that never goes out of style

Cons

• No dedicated laptop sleeve
• Heavier than some other options

Eastpak Artist Padded Backpack

Key Features

• Water-resistant polyester shell protects supplies from light rain
• Multiple zippered pockets including two front stash compartments
• Removable padded pouch for tablet or small laptop under 13 inches
• Integrated brush holders in the interior flap
• Reinforced stitching on high-stress areas

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Good water resistance for outdoor sketching sessions
• Handy pouch keeps tech protected
• Thick padding on straps and back panel

Cons

• Fewer interior dividers than competitors
• Lacks a side slip pocket for quick-access items

Herschel Retreat XL Art Edition

Key Features

• Extra-large main compartment holds oversized sketchpads
• Front pocket with signature striped liner and built-in key clip
• Hidden zipper opening at the top for easy access
• Webbing loop at the bottom to attach a paint roll
• Adjustable drawcord closure under the top flap

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Classic camp vibe is super stylish
• Great capacity for on-the-go art sessions
• Additional webbing for carrying rolled canvas

Cons

• Drawcord closure may feel loose
• No side pocket for a water bottle

Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Art Pack

Key Features

• UA Storm technology sheds water without adding weight
• Dedicated pocket for tablet or small laptop
• Front utility pocket with mesh organizer and electronics sleeve
• Side elastic pockets for brushes, tools, or water bottles
• Heat-treated shoulder straps for long-term comfort

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lightweight but durable fabric
• Ample pockets for small tech and supplies
• Easy to clean after a paint spill

Cons

• Limited color options
• Straps can feel stiff at first

Plus, it’s ideal if you’re organizing earbuds and small tech in teen backpacks.

Wildkin Studio Backpack

Key Features

• Vibrant patterns designed by teen artists
• Padded 15-inch laptop sleeve and clear supply pocket
• Multiple interior zipper pockets in contrasting colors
• Elastic brush holders along the side walls
• Sternum strap and padded back panel for ergonomic fit

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fun designs let you reflect your personality, see color psychology
• Easy to organize gear with color-coded pockets
• Good balance between style and function

Cons

• Pricey for a patterned design
• Not as water-resistant as polyester options

Compare Key Features

Backpack	Capacity	Pockets	Weight	Price	Special Feature
JanSport Right Pack Art Edition	27 L	5	1.2 lb	\$59.95	Waxed canvas
Eastpak Artist Padded Backpack	25 L	6	1.4 lb	\$85.00	Water-resistant shell
Herschel Retreat XL Art Edition	32 L	4	1.5 lb	\$74.99	Webbing loop for paint roll
Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Art Pack	26 L	7	1.1 lb	\$65.00	UA Storm water repellent
Wildkin Studio Backpack	28 L	8	1.3 lb	\$80.00	Color-coded interior pockets

Choose The Right Pack

What matters most to you? If you tote a laptop or tablet, pick a backpack with a padded tech sleeve. For brush-heavy loads, look for elastic holders and extra slip pockets. Does your art class require a wet palette? Consider a water-resistant finish. And don’t forget to pack your tools with a teen girl backpack essentials for art class and supplies list.

Review Criteria

Wondering how we picked them? We used four key factors to rate these art student backpacks:

• Storage Options: Number and style of pockets, dividers, and pouches
• Comfort: Padding, strap design, and weight distribution
• Durability: Material quality, water resistance, and stitching
• Style: Pattern, color options, and extra features like webbing loops

Frequently Asked Questions

What pocket features should I look for in an art backpack?

You’ll want slip pockets for brushes, zippered pouches for paints, and interior dividers to keep sketchbooks flat. A side pocket helps with quick-access items like water bottles or erasers.

How much capacity is ideal for a teen art backpack?

Aim for 25 to 30 liters if you carry sketchpads, brushes, and a tablet. Below 20 liters may feel cramped. Above 35 liters can get heavy if you’re walking between classes.

Are water-resistant backpacks worth it for art students?

Yes, they protect your supplies from light rain or an accidental coffee spill. But full waterproofing usually adds weight and cost. Decide if you really need it.

Can these backpacks carry both art supplies and a laptop?

Several options here include padded sleeves that fit up to 15-inch laptops or tablets. Check the specs to confirm size compatibility before you buy.

How do I keep paint spills from ruining my backpack?

Choose a backpack with a wipeable interior lining and consider using zip-lock bags for any wet media. Spot-clean as soon as possible to prevent stains.

Are there backpacks with anti-theft features for art tools?

Some models offer hidden zipper pockets under the flap or along the sides. These keep valuable items like a digital stylus out of sight and safe.

Conclusion

Finding the right backpack means matching your art supplies with a pack that can handle the load, keep everything organized, and feel comfortable on your shoulders. From rugged canvas to water-resistant shell, one of these backpacks will fit your creative workflow and personal style.

Which one will you choose? Drop a comment below to share your pick or any other art backpack you love. Don’t forget to bookmark this guide for back-to-school season and share it with your fellow young creators!