Buying guide for best clear backpacks
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Confused about buying a clear backpack? You're not alone. Clear backpacks have become a go-to option for schools, sports stadiums and performance venues, or anywhere large numbers of people congregate. The best clear backpacks provide enough space for everything you need to carry, last as long as possible, and conform to regulations, all while being as transparent as glass.
The rhyme and reason behind choosing a clear backpack has changed a lot over the last couple of decades. Clear bags made of transparent vinyl have been around since the 1950s, and in the 1990s and 2000s a clear backpack more likely belonged to a raver than a grade schooler or sports fan. However, the first school systems began mandating clear backpacks in 1999, while sports stadiums started encouraging clear bags in the late 2010s.
There's some debate over how effective clear backpacks are in enhancing safety. Clear backpacks also have a couple of big drawbacks, such as the materials they use and their relatively short lifespan. Still, if your school district or your favorite sports team's stadium mandates either clear backpacks or none at all, we've got some options and information to help you make the best choice. Our favorite is the PACKISM Clear Backpack, which is strong enough to carry a heavy load and features padded shoulder straps to make it more comfortable to wear.
Editors’ picks
PACKISM Clear Backpack
Editors’ Favorite
Dimensions: 17.1" L x 12.6" W x 6.7" D | Capacity: 23 L | Material: PVC
The PACKISM Clear Backpack is our top pick overall among clear backpacks for school. It combines quality materials, functional design choices and enhanced construction for a dependable clear backpack at a comfortable price.
The PACKISM clear backpack is made of half-millimeter-thick clear PVC with a fabric bottom for a touch of durability and protection. While PVC is something of a controversial material due to its negative effect on the environment and human health (read more about it below), it’s tough to avoid as it’s the most widespread material used in clear backpacks, thanks to its affordable price and reliable performance.
The PACKISM offers approximately 23 liters of capacity and can support up to 22 pounds of weight. Notably, it offers two clear front pockets and two interior mesh pockets for organization, plus side mesh pockets for water bottles. Its 2.7-inch-wide shoulder straps are padded, vented and contoured for easier carry on the shoulders.
Reinforced shoulder strap anchors and triangular fabric strap connections add extra sturdiness, as do double stitching on the zipper closures. Note that the PACKISM's dimensions are just a bit bigger than the maximum size of some venues, so if you're buying for that purpose, double-check that it can work.
Vorspack Clear Backpack
Great Value
Dimensions: 16" L x 12" W x 7"D | Capacity: 22 L | Material: PVC
Clear backpacks have shorter lifespans than regular ones, so you can save money buying the Vorspack Clear Backpack over a more expensive model. It comes in a range of stitches and costs a third or a half less than comparable packs.
The Vorspack clear backpack is 16 inches tall, 12 inches wide and 7 inches deep, allowing it to fit the regulations of many schools and venues. It offers 22 liters of capacity, with a single main compartment, separate front pouch with small mesh pocket, two mesh side pockets ideal for water bottles, and an interior hanging mesh pocket for valuables and personal items. It's made of 0.5-millimeter PVC with reinforced seam stitching and name-brand SBS zippers.
The Vorspack has a clear bottom made of the same PVC as the rest of the body, so it's not quite as durable as bags with fabric or reinforced bottoms. Its straps are wide and thickly padded, however, and it comes in a selection of colorful trims.
Bagseri Clear Backpack
Best for Ages 4 to 8
Dimensions: 15.5" L x 11.4" W x 5.5" D| Capacity: 16 L | Material: PVC
For smaller children and younger students, we recommend giving the Bagseri Clear Backpack a try. It's sized and designed with young kids in mind and is a good choice for students from kindergarten through second or third grade.
While maintaining the PVC material of other clear backpacks, the Bagseri kids' backpack offers strap fabric, mesh and trim that shows off bright, appealing colors and patterns. You have a choice of dinosaurs, unicorns, space, mermaids and butterflies, each in different colors, so your youngster won't have to settle for a boring transparent bag. The 16-liter capacity is appropriate for smaller kids' lighter-weight loads, and the curved, padded shoulder straps, with sternum strap, are particularly welcome to preserve the health of growing spines.
The Bagseri has two zip pouches in front for markers and crayons, two mesh pockets for small drink bottles, and the main compartment for books and binders. Each Bagseri backpack comes with stickers for personalization and has reflective safety strips on three sides for visibility in low light.
Nike 3BRAND by Russell Wilson Clear Backpack
Best for Middle School
Dimensions: 18" L x 12" W x 6" D | Capacity: 23 L | Material: TPU, polyester
Just because a school or sports arena insists on a clear backpack doesn't mean you can't show off a little. For brand-name fans who want some cred to go with their gear, the Nike 3BRAND by Russell Wilson Clear Backpack delivers all the essentials you'll need for school or game day, with the flash of the Nike and 3BRAND logos to boot.
The Nike 3BRAND backpack is made of clear TPU, which is softer, more durable and more eco-friendly than PVC. It's fully transparent on every side, with contrasting straps and seams and color-matched zippers with the 3BRAND logo. It offers 23 liters of capacity, with one big main compartment, a square front compartment, and a single mesh side pocket for a water bottle.
The Nike 3BRAND backpack has thick, wide straps for comfort that attach directly to the seam at the top. It doesn't offer any interior mesh pockets, however, so keep that in mind when considering it.
Under Armour Loudon Clear Backpack
Best for High School
Dimensions: 17.9" L x 12.6" W x 9.4" D | Capacity: 25 L | Material: TPU
Another brand-name clear backpack we like is the Under Armour Loudon Clear Backpack. It's made of soft, durable TPU, and notably offers a built-in transparent sleeve for up to a 16-inch laptop.
The Loudon Clear Backpack is fully transparent on every side and offers 25 liters of capacity, making it a good choice for high schoolers who need to carry books and tech while still following clear-bag guidelines. The built-in laptop pocket is a real plus as it allows wearers to carry their computer without needing an additional opaque laptop sleeve.
Bold Under Armour branding stands out both on the front of the backpack and on the thick, wide shoulder straps. There's a front utility pocket for smaller items, but aside from the laptop sleeve, you'll find fewer organizational options: no water bottle pockets, for example.
How we analyzed
In compiling this article, we selected the top-selling and top-performing clear backpacks on the market, including those from up-and-coming as well as longstanding brands. We evaluated them on material used, durability, load capacity, organization and comfort, paying attention to elements such as fabric bottoms, double-stitched seams, and angled or contoured shoulder straps. We also noted longevity and conformation with published clear backpack guidelines at selected school districts and sporting venues.
Key features to consider
Materials and durability
Materials
Clear backpacks are generally made of two plastics: PVC and TPU.
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is the more commonly used material. It's relatively inexpensive, highly transparent and easy to clean. However, it can feel stiff and crease easily. It also contains forever chemicals like BPA and phthalates and, if burned, releases harmful substances like heavy metals and dioxins. PVC may come with a strong odor and become more yellow over time.
- TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) has fewer potentially harmful or toxic chemicals in its makeup. It's softer, more supple and more elastic than PVC as well, with no odor and no yellowing. However, it costs more. TPU clear backpacks are more expensive than PVC clear backpacks.
There is conflicting advice to parents about the safety of PVC in clear backpacks. Some school systems allow mesh backpacks as well as clear ones. If you have concerns about the safety of the plastics, such as PVC used in clear backpacks, consider mesh backpacks if they're allowed.
Thickness
- PVC clear backpacks should be at least 0.3 millimeters thick. Good PVC clear backpacks have a thickness of 0.5 millimeters. This allows them to be stronger and more durable than thinner PVC while still maintaining flexibility.
- TPU clear backpacks should be between 0.5 and 0.8 millimeters. TPU is more flexible than PVC at thicker widths and is less prone to cracking.
Load capacity
Clear backpacks have developed a reputation for failing under what users consider light loads. This is partly due to the limitations of the clear plastic used, but it also depends as much or more so on the quality of construction. Seams, stitching and attachments are more likely to fail than either PVC or TPU. A fabric boot (bottom panel) will be stronger than either as well.
- PVC with a thickness of 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters may begin to fail at 15 pounds of load. Thin PVC of 0.2 millimeters may tear at as little as 5 pounds.
- TPU is more elastic and can handle up to 20 pounds or more of load.
Size and capacity
Dimensions
When it comes to the size of clear backpacks, schools and venues have different policies.
- Schools: Most school districts that mandate clear backpacks do not regulate their dimensions other than stating they be "backpack-sized." They can be smaller but not bigger.
- Sports venues: Stadiums and arenas have more strict size requirements. The common maximum dimensions for a clear backpack or other clear bags at sporting venues is 12 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches.
- Entertainment venues (clubs, movie theatres, stage theaters, etc.): Policies vary from venue for venue, so check before you go. Typically, they have the same maximum size limits as sports venues: 12 by 12 by 6 inches.
Capacity
Backpack capacity is measured in liters. Clear backpack capacity has the added wrinkle of being tied to load capacity, which is more limited than those of fabric or leather backpacks.
- Kindergarten and lower grades: 10 to 16 liters
- Middle school: 16 to 20 liters
- High school: 20 to 25 liters
College-age students and adults can bear more weight and may want higher capacity, but that's pushing the limits of the load capacity of clear backpacks.
Comfort and fit
Straps and handles
Like fabric backpacks, clear backpacks are worn by means of shoulder straps. The recommendations that apply to all other backpacks also apply here:
- Wider shoulder straps are better, as narrow straps can cause pain or discomfort
- Angled or contoured straps are better than straight straps, as they follow the shape of the torso, They're more comfortable and are less likely to slip.
- Adjustable straps help the wearer keep the clear backpack in an ergonomic position on the back.
- The stitching at either end of each strap should be strong and reinforced if possible, as these are possible failure points.
- Sternum or chest straps that link shoulder straps at the chest can help shift the burden of the backpack more generally across the body. They also help prevent the backpack from falling or being pulled off.
- A grab handle or hook loop at the yoke or rear top of the backpack helps in lifting and storage.
Padding
The security and visibility concerns that drive the adoption of clear backpacks unfortunately makes it impossible to add significant padding to the back or bottom panels of the backpack itself.
- School districts often emphasize that a clear backpack must be clear from every side.
- Attempts at adding some kind of cushioning to the back in particular may run afoul of the guidelines enforced by the school district or venue.
- Padding on the shoulder straps are the only padding usually found on clear backpacks and help minimize the load contact on the body.
Organizational features and privacy
Pockets and compartments
Most clear backpacks have a single main compartment to maximize visibility. Other compartments and pockets may include:
- Front utility pouch: A standard pocket on many school backpacks, it provides a smaller, separate compartment for accessories. Having one is standard, while more than one is a welcome plus.
- Mesh pockets: These smaller pockets, often found in the front mesh pocket and the main compartment, provide slightly more privacy and organization for small loose objects or personal items.
- Side pockets: Typically used to store a water bottle, thermos or insulated cup, side pockets are usually also made of see-through mesh. Some clear backpacks don't have them at all.
- Laptop and tablet sleeves are not often found due to build-strength requirements and security concerns, but they exist, particularly with TPU clear backpacks that are strong and elastic enough to bear a laptop's weight while remaining transparent.
Security concerns
While having a see-through backpack allows school authorities or venue security to quickly spot unpermitted items or contraband, they also pose privacy concerns for wearers.
- Small opaque bags or pouches no bigger than 6 by 9 by 5 inches are often permitted by school clear bag regulations. These can be used to store personal items such as cosmetics, health aids, medications or personal hygiene products.
- Laptop sleeves and cases are also often allowed under school clear backpack rules, as long as they're just a sleeve and tightly fitted to the laptop.
- Lining a clear backpack with fabric, paper or extensive decorations is typically not allowed.
- Security inspections may still be required, especially at entertainment venues or stadiums, even if you're carrying a clear backpack.
Clear backpack cost
Clear backpacks, thankfully, tend to cost less than regular backpacks. This is welcome because, depending on wear, tear and activity, a clear backpack may not make it through an entire school year.
- Inexpensive clear backpacks range from $10 to $20 These are usually to be avoided, however, as the plastic may be thin and of low quality, with poor stitching, zippers or inadequate shoulder straps.
- Moderately priced clear backpacks cost between $20 and $40. Thicker, higher-quality PVC, better seam stitching, better-shaped and padded shoulder pans, and additional compartments are features of this price range.
- Expensive clear backpacks cost between $40 and $60. In this price range you'll find name brands like Nike, Adidas and Under Armour, with bodies made out of TPU capable of higher weight loads and capacities.
Tips
- Don’t expose your clear backpack to extreme temperatures. Frequent exposure to hot temperatures and direct sunlight for long periods can weaken the plastic, and cold or freezing temperatures can make it stiff and prone to cracking.
- Avoid placing sharp objects in your clear backpack. These items can poke through the plastic and result in damage that can’t be repaired.
- Keep your clear backpack clean and dry. Remove dirt and debris frequently, and dry the material if it gets wet.
- Steer clear of harsh chemicals. PVC can be damaged by some substances. Direct contact with certain paints, nail polish remover and some alcohol-based solutions can cause it to deteriorate.
FAQ about clear backpacks
Q. Can I carry any clear backpack into a venue that has a clear bag policy?
A. Not necessarily. Some venues that require clear bags also have specific size limitations. To be on the safe side, check with the venue to be certain about the specifics before you choose a clear backpack.
Q. How do I clean a clear backpack?
A. Use a wet wipe or cloth with mild soap and water to wipe down the exterior and interior of your bag. Dry it thoroughly with paper towels, or keep the compartments open to allow it to air-dry.
Q. My child’s elementary school has a clear bag policy, but he’s not enthusiastic about carrying a clear backpack. How can I ease his concerns and get him interested in choosing one that he’ll be happy to carry?
A. Explain to your child that carrying a clear backpack is a safety rule, and that his classmates will be carrying them, too. Ask him which model he prefers, and encourage him to choose the design, features, and trim colors he likes best.
Our expertise
Jmar Gambol has been a BestReviews writer and product tester since 2021. He has written extensively about bags and luggage, including the best school backpacks, best The North Face backpacks, and the best JanSport backpacks. He has also written about luggage, travel, tech and food prep.
