Where to Buy Backpacks? Complete Guide for Retail, Wholesale, and Custom Orders

Have you ever stood in front of a wall of backpacks in a store or scrolled through hundreds of listings online and felt overwhelmed about where to buy backpacks that really fit your needs? In today’s market, backpacks aren’t just about carrying stuff—they’re a key part of branding, functionality, and lifestyle. Whether you’re a retailer stocking shelves, a business ordering bulk for events or promotions, or a brand looking for private-label customization, knowing where and how to purchase backpacks can save you time, money and headaches.

You can buy backpacks at three main places: retail stores (for individual purchases), online marketplaces/brand websites (for wide choice and convenience) and direct-factory wholesale or OEM/ODM suppliers (for bulk or custom orders). Each channel has benefits depending on your budget, quantity, customization needs, and lead time.

Picture this: a startup brand needs 300 custom backpacks embroidered with the company logo for a trade show in six weeks. They walk into a retail store—no chance. They browse Amazon—stock is random, customization minimal. Finally they reach a factory that offers the right fabric, low minimum order, free sample, and fast turnaround. That choice makes or breaks their launch. Stick with me and you’ll see how to pick the right way of buying, what to watch for, and how our factory Jundong can make it simple.

What Are the Best Places to Buy Backpacks Today?

The best places to buy backpacks depend on your need. For individual purchase: retail shops and e-commerce. For bulk or customizable orders: online wholesale platforms or direct factories. Each option balances price, lead-time, customization and quality.

When you evaluate where to buy backpacks, you’re really comparing channels by four factors: price, quantity (MOQ), customization, and delivery speed.

Retail Stores

Brick-and-mortar stores (department stores, outdoor gear shops) offer immediate purchase, the chance to touch and test materials, try straps and size in person. For an individual buyer or small run, this may suffice. But they lack customization and the price per unit is highest—because retail includes retail margins, store cost, shipping and inventory overhead. Also, stock is fixed—what you see is what you get, seldom tailored.

Online Marketplaces & Brand Sites

Platforms like Amazon, official brand e-shops or other e-tailers offer huge choice, often fast shipping, and price-comparison. They let you filter by brand, size, features. For consumers buying one or a few, this works great. But again: customization is minimal and for large quantities the price may not scale. You still pay retail/wholesale style prices, and lead‐time for bulk orders may be longer because you go through middle-man fulfilment channels. Also stock might be limited.

Wholesale & Direct Factory / OEM/ODM

This is where you buy bulk or custom backpacks. Via online wholesale platforms (Alibaba, Global Sources) or by contacting a factory (like our factory, Jundong). You get much lower unit cost, ability to set your fabric, size, branding/logo, finishes, and production tailored to your brand. Minimum quantities may be higher, lead-time longer than retail, but customization and cost per unit make this ideal for B2B. For event giveaways, brand product lines, private labels—the factory channel is best.

Channel	Best For	Pros	Cons
Retail Store	Individuals, small purchase	Hands-on, immediate	High cost, minimal customization
Online Marketplace/Brand Site	Individuals or small orders	Wide choice, good convenience	Less customization, still higher cost
Wholesale / Direct Factory	Bulk orders, private label	Low unit cost, customization, brand control	Higher MOQ, longer lead-time

From the perspective of a buyer who wants custom backpacks with their logo, the direct factory route often yields the best combination of cost and brand control. That’s why many budget-conscious or growth-oriented brands target this channel.

Where to Buy Backpacks for School, Travel, Work, and Outdoor Use?

You buy backpacks suited to school, travel, work or outdoors depending on channel and specification: school/back-to-college often via retail or online; travel/work/backpacks via brand or online; outdoor or high-volume event use often via wholesale or custom factory. Choosing the right type and supplier depends on target use-case.

Backpacks split across many use-cases—school, travel, business commuting, outdoor/hiking, lifestyle/urban. Each category brings unique features, materials, and branding opportunities. So “where to buy backpacks” means “where to buy the right type for the right purpose.”

School & Everyday Use

For students or daily commuters, popular choices are 20-30 litre bags, good shoulder straps, laptop sleeves, durable fabric but modest price. These are often found in retail large-format stores, online brand shops, or e-commerce. The buyer’s priority is comfort, durability, style. Custom branding is possible through volume purchase (e.g., school orders). But retail models dominate.

Travel & Work Use

For business or travel contexts: 30-45 litre, with laptop compartments, USB charging ports, anti-theft zippers, sleek design. Brands emphasize style + function. These models often shipped via online brand stores, brand boutiques, or sometimes wholesale channels for business gifting. A direct factory can produce these with custom features like luggage pass-through straps, wanderlust design, and brand logo.

Outdoor / Hiking / Sport Use

These backpacks demand high performance: heavy duty fabric (600D nylon, rip-stop polyester), hydration pack compatibility, ergonomic frames, removable hip belts. For mass retail, specialist stores (REI, outdoor chains) carry them. For high volume corporate/brand work (e.g., event giveaways, sport teams), you might buy bulk from a factory where you define the fabric and structure. Trend data show the outdoor-segment growing: e.g., the outdoor backpacks market is expected to grow by nearly USD 997 million from 2025-2029.

Lifestyle / Urban Use

Urban backpacks focus on minimalism, sleek aesthetic, convertible strap systems, modular compartments. According to trend research, in 2025 modular, lightweight, adjustable strap backpacks with detachable pockets are poised to gain popularity.

Trend snapshot (2025):

• Eco-materials and recycled fabrics show up across all categories.
• Tech-integration (USB ports, anti-theft) especially in travel/commuter types.
• Modular design and versatile compartments become favored.

Hence, the supplier you pick should align with the use‐case. If you’re buying 500 backpacks for school giveaways, a factory with low MOQ and basic design is ideal. If you’re buying premium travel backpacks for retail, you’ll want a brand or factory that offers premium materials, refined finishing, and custom branding.

Where to Buy Backpacks in Bulk for Business or Events?

To buy backpacks in bulk for business or events, the best route is wholesale platforms or direct factories. You’ll secure lower unit cost, customizable branding and order sizes suitable for giveaways or private-label product lines, plus streamlined production and delivery.

When an organization needs bulk quantities of backpacks—whether for corporate gifting, event promotion, retail release, or private-label product line—the channel is significantly different than buying individual consumer units. Let’s walk through what matters.

Wholesale Platforms

Platforms such as Alibaba, Global Sources, Made-in-China list many suppliers offering backpacks in bulk, sometimes with customization. These platforms provide access to many suppliers, price competition, and listing of MOQ and unit pricing. But beware: price drive can compromise quality, and you still may face middle-man mark-ups or communication issues. The unit price may be low, but you may pay extra for samples, shipping, and custom tooling.

Direct Factory / OEM / ODM

For serious bulk buying and branding, going directly to a factory is often superior. A factory like Jundong can offer:

• Low minimum order quantities (e.g., 100-300 pcs)
• Free design support
• Custom fabrics, logos, colorways, hardware
• Fast sample lead-time
• 100% quality guarantee

This route gives you maximum brand control and cost efficiency. For example, when you place 500 pcs custom backpacks with your logo, you’re not just buying a standard model—you’re building your own brand or event identity.

Why Many Brands Choose Factory Sourcing

• Lower unit cost: Removing retail/wholesale middle layers cuts cost.
• Customization: You can choose fabric, lining, compartments, hardware, and your own logo.
• Branding control: Every unit carries your brand identity, packaging, hang-tags, labels.
• Lead time: Established factories know the production flow and can turn samples and bulk faster than taking standard retail models.
• Scalability: If your event or product line grows, the factory supports higher quantities and helps manage new SKUs.

Key Considerations When Buying Bulk

• Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): Check if it fits your budget.
• Sample Policy: A good factory offers free or low-cost samples for review.
• Lead Time: Production and shipping timeline matter.
• Quality Assurance: Look for QC checks, warranty, fabric certifications.
• Customization Options: Logo technique (embroidery, metal plate), hardware, lining, packaging.
• Communication & Support: A reliable supplier responds in a timely fashion and keeps transparency on production stages.

From a buyer’s perspective, if you’re looking to order backpacks for an event or to launch a private-label line, your best move is to reach out to a factory with your specs. Provide fabric type, bag size, compartments, branding, and quantity—and ask for sample and production timeline. You’ll get better value and product aligned with your brand.

Where to Buy Custom Backpacks With Logo Printing?

To buy custom backpacks with logo printing, you can use a specialized factory or OEM/ODM partner. You define fabric, size, compartments, logo placement and customization, and the supplier handles manufacturing, sampling and production—ideal for brand owners looking for private-label products.

Custom backpacks are increasingly important for brands, startups and event marketers. Here’s what to consider when asking where to buy custom backpacks with your logo and branding.

Customization Options Available

When you work with a factory, customization spans many dimensions:

• Fabric & materials: nylon, polyester, canvas, leather, recycled RPET.
• Size and volume: e.g., 25 L commuter bag, 40 L travel pack.
• Compartments & features: laptop sleeve, USB port, anti-theft zipper, water-proof lining.
• Hardware & finishing: metal zippers, branded pullers, woven labels, silicone patches.
• Logo methods: embroidery, heat transfer, metal plate, woven label, PVC patch.
• Packaging: swing tags, dust bags, hang-tags, branded boxes.

Factory vs Reseller: Which Is Better?

A reseller may supply standard models with your logo added. Easy but limits control (fabric, features, finishing) and costs more per unit. A direct factory gives you full control and often lower cost—but requires more communication, specification alignment and lead-time. For serious brands, the factory route yields better brand alignment and margin.

How Jundong Factory Supports OEM/ODM Backpack Production

Here’s how a factory like Jundong works:

• Over 20 years experience in bag manufacturing.
• Free design support: send your idea, they provide sketches and 3D renderings.
• Low MOQ: ideal for new brands or testing markets.
• Rapid sampling: often within 3-7 days for initial sample.
• Free sample provision (depending on fabric and order commitment).
• 100% quality guarantee: QC checks, pre-shipment inspection, photo/video verification.
• Global shipping support: air/sea courier, logistic coordination.
• Customization: You choose fabric type (canvas, nylon, leather, RPET, EVA), color, logo method, hardware, lining.
• Transparent cost and timeline: sample cost, bulk cost, lead-time clearly outlined.

When you decide to buy custom backpacks, you’re not buying a generic model—you’re creating a product that carries your brand identity, meets your target market’s needs and offers margin advantages. So pick a manufacturing partner who makes it easy and gives you control.

Are Branded Backpacks Worth Buying — and Where to Get Them?

Branded backpacks from top names offer proven quality, strong brand appeal and resale value—but come at higher cost. You purchase these from brand stores, official websites or authorized retailers. If you want customization and cost-efficiency, OEM factory options may offer better value.

Many buyers ask: “Should I buy a brand-name backpack or go custom?” To answer, let’s compare.

What Brand Has the Best Backpacks?

There is no absolute “best” brand, but several global names stand out for quality, design, and market trust:

• The North Face — outdoor and travel specialists.
• Tumi — premium travel backpacks and business gear.
• Herschel — lifestyle backpacks with strong design appeal.
• Samsonite — known for travel luggage but also durable travel packs.
• SwissGear, JanSport, Osprey — each specialise in specific segments (student, hiking, travel). Branded backpacks often provide extensive features: warranty, brand service, proven materials, brand prestige.

Where Do People Usually Buy Branded Backpacks?

You buy branded backpacks via:

• Official brand websites (best for latest models and direct support).
• Brand flagship stores (hands-on experience).
• Authorized retailers (department stores, outdoor gear shops).
• Online marketplaces (brand’s official storefront). Buying from unauthorized sellers can mean risk of counterfeits—especially in outdoor gear segment where fake backpacks flood market.

Do Branded Backpacks Really Last Longer Than OEM Products?

Often yes—brands invest heavily into materials, testing, warranty service and reputation. But it depends on the OEM or factory behind the product. If you work directly with a reputable factory (like Jundong) and define specs clearly, you can achieve comparable durability and performance at lower cost. The key is material grade, construction quality, and QC process—not just the brand name.

So if your target is private-label backpack for your brand, you may decide: “I’ll invest the brand premium now” or “I’ll control cost and branding via a factory.” For many B2B buyers, the second is more attractive.

How to Choose the Right Backpack Supplier?

Choosing the right backpack supplier means asking about MOQ, sample policy, lead time, QC process, material certifications and customization options. You should vet for reliability, quality assurance, and transparent communication before placing a bulk or custom order.

Dive Deeper

Selecting the right supplier is critical when you’re buying backpacks for retail, promotional, or private‐label use. Here’s how to make that choice with confidence.

What Questions Should You Ask Before Placing an Order?

• What is the Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) for custom backpacks?
• Can you provide a free or paid sample? What is lead time for sample?
• What are your production lead time and shipping time?
• What fabric types, logo methods, hardware options do you support?
• What quality control and inspection process do you follow? Do you provide photos/videos prior to shipment?
• Do you hold certifications (ISO 9001, BSCI, SGS, REACH, OEKO-TEX) for materials and processes?
• What is your pricing structure (unit price, shipping, customization cost)?
• What is your warranty/service policy?
• Can you handle scaling if I reorder larger quantity next season?

Are There Risks When Buying From Unknown Suppliers?

Yes. Common risks: low-quality materials labeled incorrectly, inconsistent stitching or hardware, long delays, no communication, lack of pre-shipment inspection, hidden additional costs, counterfeit branding. The outdoor backpacks segment explicitly warns about counterfeits flooding the market.

How Do Factory Certifications and Experience Affect Buyer Confidence?

A factory with proven manufacturing experience and certifications signals reliability. Having 20+ years in bag manufacturing, offering free design support, low MOQ, and providing sample and QC documentation gives you strong assurance. Work with a factory that is transparent about production stages, provides sample photos, communicates clearly and supports post‐sale issues.

For example, Jundong Factory ticks all these boxes: over 20 years of bag development + manufacturing + sales, custom fabrics, low MOQ, fast sample turn, 100 % quality guarantee. When you buy backpacks through them, you get more control, lower cost and better brand alignment.

FAQ: Buying Backpacks Online or Direct From a Factory

Q1. Do factories offer free samples?

Often yes. Many factories (including Jundong) provide free samples once design is confirmed and you plan the bulk order. Always ask.

Q2. Are custom backpacks expensive?

Not necessarily. While premium materials and heavy customization raise cost, for moderate customization you can still get competitive unit prices—especially for bulk orders.

Q3. Can I buy only 50–100 pcs for a test order?

Yes—many modern factories accept low MOQs for testing. Jundong supports low MOQ orders to help new brands test markets quickly.

Q4. How long does bulk production take?

Typically 25–35 days after sample approval, depending on quantity, fabrics, hardware, and shipping. Always build buffer for shipping and customs.

Q5. What is the best material for backpacks?

It depends on use. Nylon (especially 600D or higher) is durable for travel/outdoor; oxford and polyester are good for everyday; canvas and RPET for eco-friendly lines; leather for premium business styles.

Q6. How much does a decent backpack cost?

Retail consumer models might range $30-100 depending on brand and features. Bulk OEM factory cost for a mid‐tier model (e.g., 25-30 L, nylon fabric, laptop sleeve) may start from $6-12 per unit for 300-500 pcs depending on specification.

Q7. What are current backpack trends I should watch for?

Key trends: eco‐friendly materials, modular compartments, tech features (USB ports, anti-theft), minimalist urban designs.

Final Call to Action

If you’re ready to launch a backpack line, prepare for an event, or want to scale your brand with high-quality custom backpacks, you’ve found the right partner. At Jundong Factory, we blend over 20 years of bag R&D, manufacturing and sales into a seamless package designed for global buyers.

• Free design and sample support
• Low MOQs ideal for startups and brands alike
• Rapid sampling and short lead-time production
• Full customization on fabric, hardware, logo, packaging
• 100 % quality guarantee and transparent production tracking