Depends entirely on what you're using it for. I have a Jansport one that I've had for a decade that's still going strong, although it rarely gets used these days.

Don't over think. Assuming you're in university, people aren't quite as bad as you mention. You can get away with anything vaguely outdoorsy. Go to one of those camping shops and get something that's comfortable and will hold as much as you need.

If you're looking for something a bit more fashionable, Jansport bags are a heritage brand of good value and increasing popularity.

Don't spend too much if you're not looking to go hiking or whatever. I got a cheap puma bag from sports direct in first year for a tenner and it hasn't broken yet (third year and I load it way more than I should).

I think in the adult world, the backpack is recognised as a necessary, practical piece of equipment, so I'd say getting something no-nonsense is pretty smart. The MOLLE packs they sell on Amazon are probably the best example for cheap, though it depends if you like the whole military thing.

If you still fear the bigger boys laughing at you, one of the well-known adventure brands is better, like a North Face or Osprey or Jack Wolfskin. But you'll have to pay more for that, just like in school. Now you know how your parents felt when they found out the bag you wanted to carry your shitty textbooks around in was eighty quid.

>>5127

I got this one a few days ago as a matter of fact.

I needed something smaller than my 40L, so this 24L one is perfect.

A few tips would be to avoid zips in the main compartment. They tend to break after some time and get shit caught in them. This one has a draw-string deal with a flap over it. So far it's been a joy to use.

However, the catch as you'd expect is that it cost me £57, but I know it'll last me forever.

>>5132
>avoid zips in the main compartment.
That's probably solid advice. I've had the same Quicksilver bag for 15 years now, the zip is still just about there, but I'm prepared to call it a freak of nature given how many zips I've had fail elsewhere in life.

>>5133
I had this life-venture backpack for 8 years, and one of the annoyances with zips is that you seldom can fit something bigger than the intended volume. With draw-strings it's a question of loosening it a bit and you can fit all you want within reason.

>>5131
Seconding military type bags. Pop into a military surplus store and you can get a cheap but well built one that'll last for ages. Very good value for money.

Get a car, or get your shopping delivered.

>>5136

Oh, teenlad.

>>5135
thirding the military surplus idea I had a rucksack that could fit 24 cans of beer easily. It was only when the stitching on the straps just gave up the ghost after nearly 10 years of service that I got rid of it. Never mind the fact that it wasva bit sad for a man in his mid thirties using a bag covered in heavy metal band patches covering it.

>>5132
Paying £57 for a bag?

>>5139
Yeah? And?

>>5140
Wait until he finds out how much Gucci charge for theirs.

buy a car, OP

(A good day to you Sir!)