A good backpack does more than carry your gear. It needs to suit your daily routine, handle the weight you throw at it, and still look right with your outfit. If you are searching for the best backpacks in NZ, this guide breaks down what to look for and how to choose the right option for work, study, travel, or skating.

At Westside Surf & Street, we stock backpacks designed for convenience and storage. Here is how to find the one that fits your lifestyle.

Start with how you will use it

Before choosing a brand or style, think about your main use case. Most people fall into one of four categories.

Work and everyday carry

If you are heading to work, uni, or moving around town, your backpack should be clean, structured, and comfortable for long wear. Look for padded straps, a tidy silhouette, and enough space for a laptop, charger, and daily essentials.

Browse options in our Backpacks collection, where you will find versatile everyday packs that work across multiple settings.

School & Study

For school backpacks, durability matters. Books, devices, lunch, and sports gear add up fast. A good school backpack should have reinforced stitching, padded laptop sleeves, and compartments that keep weight balanced.

Brands like Rip Curl are known for functional layouts and tough fabrics, making them a solid choice for students. Explore the Rip Curl backpacks and accessories range to see styles built for daily school use.

Travel and weekends away

Travel backpacks need to handle long days and changing conditions. Comfort and capacity come first. Look for breathable back panels, adjustable straps, and multiple pockets for organisation. Water-resistant fabric is also a big plus, especially for New Zealand weather.

Many surf-inspired packs from Hurley and Rip Curl work well for short trips and carry-on use.

Skating and active use

Skate backpacks are built differently. They need to survive grip tape, heavy loads, and constant movement. Features like reinforced bases, external skate straps, and tough zips are key.

Check out our Skate Accessories section alongside backpacks to find gear that works together for skating days.

Key features to look for in a backpack

Size and capacity

Think about what you carry most days. A slim backpack might look good but quickly becomes frustrating if it cannot fit your laptop or jacket. On the other hand, an oversized pack can feel bulky for everyday use.

• Small to medium packs suit work and light school days

• Medium to large packs are better for travel and skating

Product descriptions in our backpack range usually list capacity, which helps narrow things down.

Comfort and support

Padded shoulder straps are non-negotiable. For heavier loads, look for breathable mesh backing and adjustable chest straps. These features reduce pressure on your shoulders and make longer wear far more comfortable.

Compartments and organisation

A dedicated laptop sleeve is essential for work and school. Extra internal pockets help keep chargers, notebooks, and smaller items easy to find. Skate backpacks often include external straps or reinforced panels, which are worth having if you carry a board.

Fabric and durability

Strong polyester or canvas fabrics handle daily wear best. Reinforced stitching at stress points and sturdy zips are signs of a pack built to last. Surf brands like Rip Curl often design bags with durability in mind due to their coastal roots.

Choosing the right backpack by brand

Hurley backpacks

Hurley backpacks are a solid all-round option. They balance clean street style with practical features like padded straps and simple internal layouts. These packs work well for work, casual travel, and everyday wear.

Rip Curl backpacks

Rip Curl backpacks are popular for school, travel, and surf-influenced lifestyles. Many styles include multiple compartments, durable fabrics, and comfortable padding, making them reliable for heavy daily use.

Skate-focused packs

Backpacks designed with skating in mind prioritise toughness and movement. Reinforced panels, board carry systems, and strong straps make them suitable for rougher use. Pair these with items from our Skate Accessories collection for a setup that holds up session after session.

Matching your backpack to your outfit

Backpacks are part of your look, not just a utility item. Neutral colours like black, grey, or olive work across most outfits and seasons. Branded logos add personality without overpowering your fit.

• For work and study, keep it minimal and structured

• For travel, function can take priority over clean lines

• For skating, durability and attitude matter most

Choosing a backpack that matches your clothing makes it easier to use it daily rather than only when needed.

A simple backpack checklist

Before you add one to your cart, ask yourself:

• Does it fit my laptop or main gear?
  

• Are the straps padded and adjustable?
  

• Is the fabric strong enough for daily use?
  

• Does it suit work, school, travel, or skating as needed?
  

If the answer is yes across the board, you are on the right track.

Find your next backpack at Westside Surf & Street

Whether you need one pack for everything or different backpacks for different days, choosing the right style makes a big difference. From school backpacks to tough skate backpacks and versatile everyday options, we stock styles that work as hard as you do.

Explore the Backpacks collection, check out options from Hurley and Rip Curl, and pair your pick with essentials from our Skate Accessories range. The right backpack is the one that fits your routine and keeps up every day.

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