A freshman needs a bag that carries a laptop, a notebook, and a snack, and still looks good at the dining hall.
A Roomy Tote
A zipper tote or the pillow tote fits books and a laptop with a zip that keeps things safe on a packed bus.
A Crossbody for Labs
For hands-free days, a colorblock crossbody carries the essentials. The totes do the heavy lifting.
Pro tip: pick one neutral bag you like — you will wear it daily, so it has to go with everything.
Shop the campus totes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bag does a college freshman need?
One roomy tote for books and laptop, plus a small crossbody for hands-free days. Neutral color goes with everything.
Is a tote or backpack better for school?
A tote looks smarter and fits books; a backpack saves your shoulders. Many students keep both.
How big should a student bag be?
Big enough for a 13-inch laptop, a notebook, and a water bottle, but not so big it becomes a burden across campus.