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Attention parents: Back-to-School time is quickly approaching! Don’t get me wrong, by no way am I trying to rush you and your kiddo’s summer vacation. But I do have to be that tiny voice of reason, reminding you that the season is coming and it’s best to start your school shopping as soon as possible. And if there’s anything that you should purchase first, it’s gotta be your child’s backpack.  

While it’s been ages since I wore a backpack to school (or even attended a class), I remember just how crucial it was to pick one out. Not only did it set the tone for the school year ahead, but it also said a lot about who I was and what I was into. And I’m sure the same still rings true for kids today. Last August, my niece went to preschool for the first time (ugh, how the time flies!), and she made sure to tell my sister-in-law that she “needed” a Ghost Spider bookbag from Spidey & His Amazing Friends. And if my sweet niece sounds a little like your kiddo, then you know exactly what you’re up against. 

Where to Find Best Character Backpacks Online, at a Glance 

Target: Frozen Elsa and Anna 2-Piece 16″ Kids Backpack & Lunch Box Set, $50
Amazon: Simple Modern Medium Disney Pixar Toddler Backpack, $50
Walmart: Marvel Spidey and His Amazing Friends Backpack With Lunch Box, $40
Kohl’s: Squishmallows Backpack with Detachable Lunch Box & 3D Charm, $32

Back in the day, you could take your child to the nearest Walmart or Target and pick from the assortment there. But sometimes, if you wait too long, there are slim pickings left, or worse, the character your child really wants is gone. So to make sure that doesn’t happen this school year, I went ahead and compiled a massive list of the hottest character backpacks for 2026. Here you’ll find bags featuring popular characters like Bluey and Disney Princesses for the younger crowd, and Spider-Man for the older kids. But if you have a tween or a teen who is “way too cool” for character bags, don’t worry; we’ve got them covered here.  

Below, check out some of the coolest character backpacks available on the internet right now, where to find them, and even which styles work for which grade. 

Target

I think it’s safe to say that Target has become the destination for all things Back-to-School. From now until classes start, you can find everything your student could need this upcoming semester. Currently, they have hundreds of character backpacks on their site for all age groups, and most are on sale ahead of the August rush. 

Amazon

While Target might be best for in-store, Amazon is the GOAT for online Back-to-School shopping. Genuinely, they have everything your child could need this semester, and when you have Prime, most of them can ship within two days and sometimes as little as one. 

Walmart

Up next is Walmart, and, like Target, they’re a major force in Back-to-School shopping. They carry a ton of options in-store and online, with a very wide assortment available online. Plus, they offer some of the best prices compared to the former two. 

Kohl’s

Last but certainly not least is Kohl’s. I like to think of Kohl’s as the cool department store that carries your favorite brands along with some niche ones that you didn’t know you’d love until now. When it comes to backpacks and Back-to-School gear, they offer some very fun characters that you might not be able to find elsewhere.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below: