Backpacks for college need to be able to take a beating and be extremely durable. Most college students love to stuff their backpacks with text books that weigh about 100 lbs each, and then to boot all of their other gadgets have to be tossed in there for good measure.

This is why the density of the material should always be taken into account. If you have a high-grade nylon or polyester, it is less likely to tear than a lower grade material. You may balk at paying more than $25 for a college backpack, but keep in mind that those will be lucky to last through a whole school year. Which is why I have hand picked a few college backpacks that are sure to last not only for a students college career, but well after.

JanSport Classic Big Student Backpack – this comes in over thirty colors, including funky colors like guerrilla green, navy zoot suit and white little echo. I don’t know who thinks up these names, but that’s marketing for you! This backpack is made from very durable cordura fabric and can fit a ton of books, accessories, and even clothes when you are heading to the gym etc. Cost – $45

High Sierra Swerve Backpack – this is what I call the “music lovers” backpack. It has a special pocket that holds your mp3 player and a built in headphone port. It has an oversized middle pocket that will hold all off your books and folders, plus a number of pockets for Blackberries and other accessories.

APC Leather Cross Body Sling Bag (Amerileather) – this is a stylish and unusual backpack that will definitely stand out when you are walking on campus. It is made from top grain leather, which means it can take a pounding. It has a cross strap that is amply padded and it has plenty of space for all of your gear.

These are just a handful of ones I recommend, but keep in mind that the best college backpack is never going to be cheap, as you generally get what you pay for with these bags.