I purchased two of these backpacks at the beginning of the school year for my boys ages 8 & 10. I had previously bought them each a junior size backpack when they started kindergarten, but wanted something a little bigger now that they are getting older. (The junior backpacks are still holding up after all these years) Anyways, after using the original size for nearly the whole school year, I just noticed a 3-4" tear/rip in the seam of one of them. No big deal, LL Bean guarantees their products so I called to order a replacement and it couldn't have gone smoother. They let me buy a brand new one at the sale price I paid for the one that ripped. When it arrives, I will ship the damaged one back (for free) and receive a refund. LL Bean, you have just received a faithful backpack customer for life with your awesome customer service and your satisfaction guarantee. All 3 of our boys will carry only LL Bean backpacks throughout their school years. (Btw- the other backpack we purchased at the same time this year is still going strong with no issues)
Features I love- thick and cushiony straps, super durable fabric, fun prints, sturdy zipper, and overall excellent construction! These were made to last, and if not, they'll send you a new one. How can you go wrong!?
We purchased this one because my daughter liked the surfboard print. I didn't even notice there are no side pouches for water bottle. And, there isn't a little loop on the front (like our old backpack) to hang girlie decorations. If it were not monogrammed, I would be returning it. I'm giving it 3 stars because even with monogram it arrived quickly, and it is nice size and seems durable. We just miss the extra features.
Total number of backpacks bought for my 2 older kids from K-5th grade: 14. Total bought for my youngest: 1. I bought my daughter her book pack when she started Kindergarten in 2009, and if she hadn't wanted a more "grown up" bag for middle school she'd still be using it. It's a little worn on the base corners and has some permanent dirt on the bottom from the hundreds of hours it sat on bus stop streets, wet bus floors, and school hallways, but it's still in great condition and fully functional. Not a single rip, tear, fray, or zipper issue. She still uses if for occasional overnights and I expect it to last forever. Literally.
I bought this for my kindergartner in flower power print. I bought critter packs for my older kids when they started kindergarten (they are in 3rd and 4th grade now, and backpacks are going strong!) , but my daughter just loved this print. My only wish was that this pack had water bottle holders-then it would be perfect in every way.
It is a great size, she had junior size in pre-k, but that doesn't fit her coat, lunch box, binder, and everything she needs for all day kindergarten so I am happy I upgraded.
