Menu
 

BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details

Best Clear Backpacks

Updated November 2022
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
K-Cliffs Heavy-Duty Clear Backpack
K-Cliffs
Heavy-Duty Clear Backpack
Check Price
Roomy with Large Pockets
Bottom Line

This spacious, transparent backpack earns top marks for its tough material and large pockets.

Pros

Owners rave about the PVC construction which is thicker and more durable than competitors. Roomy with numerous pockets including 1 on each side. Option of several trim colors.

Cons

Mesh that is on several of the pockets is prone to tearing. Zippers have been reported to occasionally jam or break. Straps are bit uncomfortable.

Best Bang for the Buck
Edraco Clear Sling Bag
Edraco
Clear Sling Bag
Check Price
Easy Carry
Bottom Line

A small, clear backpack in a crossbody design that provides quick access to your items.

Pros

Comes with a wide, padded strap that fits across the chest. Strap is a mesh design and padded for extra comfort, and can be adjusted to fit. Has a side mesh pocket. Made with a PVC plastic that is non-toxic.

Cons

Bag is pretty small. Not the most durable.

Trail Maker Clear Backpack
Trail Maker
Clear Backpack
Check Price
Handy & Comfortable
Bottom Line

The secure front pocket makes this inexpensive backpack very handy.

Pros

Stands out for the front compartment that zips securely and is ideal for carrying pens, pencils, and other small items. Trim is available in several colors. Padded handles are comfortable.

Cons

Smaller than some competitors. No side pockets. Zippers have been known to break.

Packism Heavy Duty Clear Backpack
Packism
Heavy Duty Clear Backpack
Check Price
Fun Straps Options
Bottom Line

Comes with multiple pockets and slots to keep everything organized, and is made with thick plastic for greater durability.

Pros

Available in many different strap colors and patterns. Backpack is waterproof. The mesh straps are padded and adjustable. Spacious main compartment also has a laptop sleeve.

Cons

A few customers had issues with the zippers breaking.

Neurora Clear Backpack
Neurora
Clear Backpack
Check Price
Customer Favorite
Bottom Line

Made with materials that are designed to help the bag maintain its shape for a more structured feel and long-term use.

Pros

Has a main compartment and a front zippered pocket big enough to store items such as a tablet. Also has 2 mesh side pockets. Constructed with a TPU material. Bag does not have an unpleasant plastic odor.

Cons

Bag was slightly smaller than expected.

Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

51
Models
Considered
193
Consumers
Consulted
26
Hours
Researched
Category cover

Buying guide for Best clear backpacks

Carrying a backpack is one of the most effective ways to tote your items, but it’s not always practical. Areas with heightened security often require bags to be opened and even searched, which can be time-consuming when a bag has several pockets. Additionally, security-enforced locations such as schools, government buildings, and large event venues often have clear bag policies that only allow transparent bags inside. Fortunately, there are clear backpacks for high-security events and locations.

While clear backpacks have features like multiple compartments, straps, and handles like their opaque counterparts, they’re made of see-through plastic material so the contents are visible. Shopping for a clear model is no different than buying a regular backpack — you’ll need to consider size, space, and straps before you buy.

Our informative shopping guide and recommendations can assist you in finding a clear backpack to accommodate your needs.

Content Image
Just because you have to carry a clear backpack doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Many models have trim and handles in various colors, so you can choose the one that goes well with your other accessories.

Considerations

Materials

It’s the transparency of clear backpacks that makes them useful in highly secure situations, but they also have to be strong enough to withstand basic wear and tear. That’s why a plastic polymer called polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is used to make these practical bags. PVC is reasonably durable under most conditions, yet it has a flexible texture that makes it comfortable to carry on the back.

Care

Keep in mind that PVC isn’t as tough as other materials, such as leather, canvas, nylon, and polyester, which are used to make standard backpacks, so following a few care tips will increase the longevity of your clear backpack.

  • Don’t expose your clear backpack to extreme temperatures. Frequent exposure to hot temperatures and direct sunlight for long periods can weaken the PVC, and cold or freezing temperatures can make it stiff and prone to cracking.

  • Avoid placing sharp objects in your clear backpack. These items can poke through the plastic and result in damage that can’t be repaired.

  • Keep your clear backpack clean and dry. Remove dirt and debris frequently, and dry the material if it gets wet.

  • Steer clear of harsh chemicals. PVC can be damaged by some substances. Direct contact with certain paints, nail polish remover, and some alcohol-based solutions can cause it to deteriorate.

Features of clear backpacks

Compartments

Just like backpacks made of other materials, clear backpacks are configured with compartments for storing different items. In addition to a large main compartment, most models have at least one additional front pocket. However, some have side mesh compartments for items like water bottles and smaller interior pockets for phone, keys, pens, a calculator, and more. Although some pockets are open for easy access, most have zippered closures.

Straps

A bag wouldn’t be a backpack without straps for carrying. Clear backpack shoulder straps are made of strong nylon or polyester and are adjustable for a secure fit. Some models have padding for added comfort.

Handles

When you don’t feel like slinging your backpack on your shoulders, handles are useful. And yes, Most clear backpacks have them, too.

Price

Standard backpacks can cost as much as $100 and up, but clear backpacks are quite inexpensive, priced between $10 and $30. Lower-priced models may be less durable and have fewer compartments than pricier options. In addition, smaller backpacks that are made for kids also fall on the lower end of the price scale.

Content Image
Clear backpacks are lightweight and affordable, two selling points to keep in mind if you need to carry one to school, a concert, or a sporting event.

FAQ about clear backpacks

Q. Can I carry any clear backpack into a venue that has a clear bag policy?

A. Not necessarily. Some venues that require clear bags also have specific size limitations. To be on the safe side, check with the venue to be certain about the specifics before you choose a clear backpack.

Q. How do I clean a clear backpack?

A. Use a wet wipe or cloth with mild soap and water to wipe down the exterior and interior of your bag. Dry it thoroughly with paper towels, or keep the compartments open to allow it to air-dry.

Q. My child’s elementary school has a clear bag policy, but he’s not enthusiastic about carrying a clear backpack. How can I ease his concerns and get him interested in choosing one that he’ll be happy to carry?

A. Explain to your child that carrying a clear backpack is a safety rule, and that his classmates will be carrying them, too. Ask him which model he prefers, and encourage him to choose the design, features, and trim colors he likes best.

Our Top Picks