A new school year beckons. Whether it’s your first day of school or your student days are long behind you, the signs are everywhere. Celebrate the coming fall with a new backpack or bag. Find your perfect companion with these five picks, and make a fresh start this academic season.
1 Let’s Do Lunch.
Nestle your meal du jour inside this insulated backpack. Insert your favorite beverage in the bottle carrier and place some snacks in the smaller pockets. Extra pouches are ideal for stowing your wallet and keys. On weekends, this bag is the perfect partner for a hike or park outing. Head out on your next adventure with this in tow. Picnic Time Backpack, $59, Evelyn & Harriette’s, 1232 Oysterdale Rd., Oley, 610.987.6055.
2 Vivid Imagination.
Head off to preschool in style. These comfy, quilted backpacks look like a page out of a favorite storybook. Choose from a variety of bright colors and whimsical designs to express your child’s personality. Each comes with a matching stainless steel water bottle, perfect for snack time for your little one. Stephen Joseph Quilted Backpack, $32, Petite Milan, 484.258.3580. petitemilan.com
3 Business Class.
Make a statement at your next meeting or presentation. Pack up your office and work anywhere with this stylish messenger bag. Tuck your laptop into the padded interior for safekeeping. Secure other tools of the trade in adjacent pockets. This durable canvas bag is hardworking inside and out. Black Canvas Executive Messenger Bag, $49.95, Barnes & Noble, Broadcasting Square Shopping Center, 2751 Paper Mill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.236.0100. barnesandnoble.com
4 Athletic Aptitude.
Bounce through the halls with this sporty backpack. Padded shoulder straps help you carry academic and extracurricular gear in comfort. Plenty of pockets make it easy to stay organized and ready for class. Wet/dry compartments are a game-changer for separating homework papers and after-practice clothes. Nike Hoops Elite Max Air Team 2.0 Backpack, $85, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Broadcasting Square Shopping Center, 2767 Paper Mill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.373.7366. dickssportinggoods.com
5 Gather and Go.
No matter where your daily adventure takes you, this tote has you covered. Stock its roomy interior with an eclectic mix of small and large items. Bold stripes and a monogram add classy sophistication. Reverse the soft fabric and change your look to match your mood (and your outfit). Reversible Tote, $49.95, Anni B Monogramming, 1424 Monroe Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.780.7368. facebook.com/AnniBMonogramming
