My almost-13 year old son is in the seventh grade this year, and between his Trapper Keeper, extra folders, textbooks, and pencil case, he needs a backpack that is extra tough.  Last year’s backpack, which I think we bought at Walmart, ended up with a huge rip in the bottom by the end of the school year, so not only did he need a new one, but I wanted one that was going to hold up.

Thankfully, Lands’ End contacted me asking if I’d like to review something back-to-school related, so I asked them to send me the Boys’ ClassMate BigHaul backpack like this one, except in solid black with the monogram in silver.  I knew it had reflective trim, and you can really see it caught in the camera flash with Nathan wearing the backpack in this first day of school picture:

The BigHaul backpack is the largest backpack Lands’ End has for kids, and I would say depending on what your student needs to carry during the day, it should be big enough to hold everything. A lunch bag is included and fits into the front pocket, it’s not very big though, so Nathan took it out and uses the pocket for more storage.  It also comes with a removable organizer pouch for school supplies.  Other features of the ClassMate Big Haul backpack are:

• Double-strength base for extra durability where they need it most
• Two big compartments to organize their stuff
• 18″Hx12 1/2″Wx8″D (1800 cu in.)
•  Padded c-shaped shoulder straps and back panel for comfort
• 360° reflective trim for visibility
• Pockets on the shoulder straps keep their phone and music handy
• Weight of the backpack itself: 1.76 lbs.
• Make it Your Own with a monogram, embroidery, heat transfer and more (note: the included lunch box cannot be personalized)

Now, I’ve been a fan and customer of Lands’ End since I was in middle school (okay, my Mom was the customer, but you know what I mean!), and it’s because every single item I have ever owned by Lands’ End has been excellent quality.  The ClassMate BigHaul backpack is $49.50, and I would have paid that price for it if I hadn’t gotten one for review. One of the reasons I don’t mind spending a little extra on Lands’ End items is because they have the best return policy in retail, period. Know what it is?

Guaranteed. Period.®

If you’re not satisfied with any item, simply return it to us at any time for an exchange or refund of its purchase price.

Which means if the Lands’ End ClassMate BigHaul backpack does get a rip in the bottom of it, I can send it back to Lands’ End for a new one! Backpacks and lunch bags are on sale at LandsEnd.com, the ClassMate BigHaul backpack is only $29.99. Just go to landsend.com, hover over “School Uniforms”, and click Backpacks & Gear.  And today only, get 25% off with free shipping on orders over $50!