JanSport

Why r/BuyItForLife recommends JanSport

153 mentions from real owners

• #1Dec 31, 2025

  How can a company continue to make money if their product lasts forever?

  Jansport is still doing good

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• #2Dec 28, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  I still have my Jansport from HS as well. Bought in 2004 when I went I to fifth grade. Used all the way through college, used as diaper bag for all four kids, and is now seeing my youngest through school.

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• #3Dec 28, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  Who cares about trends.... rock that thing! I wish i still had mine.

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• #4Dec 27, 2025

  32 years old and still LIKE NEW!

  Nothing really beats the old Jansport book bags still have mine from the mid 2000's

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• #5Dec 27, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  I carried my mom’s red jansport from the late 80s to school 15 years ago. I loved that bag! Then a cousin gave me a hand me down brown corduroy jansport from the 90s and I wore it until it fell apart, and then I thrifted a second one! They just rock.

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• #6Dec 27, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  Just going to point a few things out in regards to health. That backpack appears too large for your kid, and most modern school designs restrict the total load that fit within. It could just be the camera angle though. The backpacks we all used to lug around in the 80's and 90's have been found to be one of the largest health concerns facing young people in the modern world. It has lead to a generation of adults with knee, ankle, hip, neck and back issues. Sometimes 600-700 percent increases over school children of the 60's, for example. Since the 80's and 90's over a billion dollars in research has been done on the damage and or long term health problems backpacks that are too heavy, too large or slouch backwards can cause. I highly recommend reading studies like this one - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6267109/, and maybe passing on that backpack when they are a bit bigger. Companies like Jansport, who introduced oversized school packs in the 80s, have invested a lot of money in making subtle redesigns and major overhauls to accommodate the research. They even make an effort to show models with appropriate sized backpacks as well (https://www.jansport.com/products/main-campus-cordura-js0a4nv4), unlike a lot of ads you and I would have grown up with.

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• #7Dec 27, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  Those old JanSports with the leather bottoms are indestructible. Your son will probably pass it down to his own kid one day too!

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• #8Dec 27, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  I still have the Jansport I used in 6th grade through high school (got in 2001). Not as old as yours, but man, they last forever. 

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• #9Dec 26, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  I had the same Jansport but in a dark, forest green that survived high school and most of college. It eventually got hole in one bottom corner, and I got tired of repairing with duct tape and tossed it. Fast forward 20 years and I still think about that bag pack from time to time. Jansport obviously makes the same model, so I recently bought one and the same green color. Retired my fancy leather bag that I carry for work and use my Jansport instead. I feel 20 years younger 😂🤣

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• #10Dec 26, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  I felt very unique as a hs kid since most of my classmates had the zippered version. Honestly don't remember why I insisted on the drawstring at the time! Love the story about your mom ❤️ I lost mine too. I've had good luck with the Jansport lifetime warranty, hopefully they can keep it going for you!

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• #11Dec 26, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  I used my jansport from 3rd grade through the end of college, though it didn't hold up as well (removed the lanyards and logo, and had to do some trimming when the zipper got stuck). These bags are champs

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• #12Dec 26, 2025

  My 10 year old son wearing my Jansport from HS (30 years old, purchased in 1995)

  I still have my Jansport from HS (bought in 1995) and currently use it as a laptop bag. It was only sent it in once for repair once when the bottom seam starting ripping. When it was time for a diaper bag, I got another Jansport backpack. My kid will start using that backpack when they start middle school.

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• #13Dec 19, 2025

  What’s one item you bought years ago that turned out way more durable than you ever expected?

  I still have my Jansport from 1996 and still in great condition. Those suckers are tanks.

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• #14Dec 5, 2025

  Best thing to buy for $100

  Swissgear or jansport are sturdy and reliable or an army surplus ruck

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• #15Dec 4, 2025

  Something you didn’t expect to be BIFL but outlasted your expectations?

  I got my Jansport bag around the same time and it's still my favorite bag to use for travel.

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• #16Dec 4, 2025

  Something you didn’t expect to be BIFL but outlasted your expectations?

  My jansport backpack from 1995. Still in good condition and got me through school. Anything Tupperware. Simple human garbage can. Had it 10 years and still the same as when I got it.

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• #17Dec 2, 2025

  Had this backpack for 30 years

  My son has been using the same Jansport backpack for 18 years. We also have a NorthFace backpack that is going strong at 16 years.

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• #18Dec 2, 2025

  Didn’t realize how attached I was to my old backpack until it finally started falling apart

  I still have a black, basic Jansport that I got senior year of high school. Lasted through undergrad, grad school, and the 25 years since.

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• #19Nov 7, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Vessel makes good backpacks. And jansport

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• #20Nov 6, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport. I bought mine in the 90s, then got a free replacement when it broke in the 2010s. My new one is going strong. I think I should just donate money to Jansport to make sure they stay in business because I’m not buying anything for decades at a time.

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• #21Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport has a lifetime warranty.

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• #22Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Back in 2018, Jansport repaired the front fishnet pocket and shoulder strap that looked worse than OP's and all I had to pay was shipping 30-year-old backpack at the time. Their warranty is for real

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• #23Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport used to have a lifetime warranty that they honored on my high school backpack when I was in college. That was a lifetime and at least one ownership group ago so not sure what they have now. I still have the backpack and use it as carry-on or personal item when flying. That’s about 35-40 years now and it still feels like new.

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• #24Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport. I've been carrying my same backpack daily for 25 years now. Still in great shape.

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• #25Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Eastpak, Jansport.

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• #26Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport used to be headquartered in my hometown, but moved to Colorado. They proudly stand by their warranty. I would recommend it 100%. Personally, I love Tom Bihn.

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• #27Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Got my Jansport back in 2009. Got me through my last years of high school, all of university, and moving across the country. The only blemish is has are some pen stains I couldn't get out even if I washed it. I'm planning for it to be a family heirloom at this point.

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• #28Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport or Samsonite will last for ages. I’ve had a Jansport since 2008 that’s still going strong. I use it when I travel and it’s never failed me. I just bought a Samsonite for daily use earlier this year and I absolutely love it. Great organisation, comfortable to wear when it’s heavy, and it can hold a lot of stuff without getting huge.

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• #29Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport. I received one as a high school graduation gift and I’ve had it for 40 years. . .

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• #30Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport! They make awesome backpacks.

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• #31Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport is the best, also has lifetime warranty

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• #32Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  JANSPORT

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• #33Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport will repair or replace if its failed. They replaced the straps on mine and all I had to do was fill out a form and pay to ship it to them. I did this just a few years ago. YMMV.

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• #34Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  What brand is that? If it’s Jansport they’ll fix it under warranty. You just have to go to their website & fill out the form. We got my stepson’s bag fixed under warranty when the zipper went on his. My husband still has his Jansport from the 90s. If that bag isn’t a Jansport, I’d replace it with one that is.

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• #35Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Still a thing, and I believe still replacing old ones. Jansport for life!

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• #36Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  My husband was going through at least 3 jansports a year. Bought him a rucksack a couple years ago and it still looks brand new.

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• #37Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  I have some sort of brand loyalty to Jansport. They have ( or had) a crazy good warranty. I sent one in 1990s for a repair and I got a postcard from my backpack from camp. It came back with all reinforced seams. Found my son a like new one in the goodwill bins last week!

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• #38Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  My mid-90s Jansport got a broken zipper. They sent me credit for a warranty replacement. Now my kid has a new backpack that I expect to last him for ages.

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• #39Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Buy a vintage Jansport

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• #40Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport! Had one for 20 yrs no problems

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• #41Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  I’ve had my JanSport for 30 years. Got it freshman year HS. It’s never broke or even shown signs of age.

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• #42Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Filson, Carhartt, Jansport. But honestly: why are you carrying so much heavy stuff around? That’s not good for you. Get a small rolling suitcase/briefcase if you must.

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• #43Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport has a lifetime guarantee. You just send it in and they fix it and send it back.

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• #44Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  JanSport will fix that for free.

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• #45Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Osprey is the true BIFL when it comes to backpacks, but the price matches the quality. I remember jansport being really good back in the day, and I used my 10 year old college jansport on every trip I ever had until I splurged for an Osprey.

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• #46Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport has this same style and last I checked still had a lifetime warranty. You can send it in and they will repair it free of charge.

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• #47Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport or LL Bean! Look for those lifetime warranties!

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• #48Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  I used to work at REI, and I don't know if they still have this (I hope so), but Jansport was AMAZING about fixing their products. I destroyed a backpack (my fault) in HS, and returned it to Jansport, who mailed me a brand new one back. They had (hopefully still have?) a "lifetime guarantee" that they stood behind so much, they'd replace anything of theirs that was messed up, for free.

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• #49Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  This is the answer. Yes I have a Jansport in the back of the closet from 20+ years ago that is still in decent condition, but my Tom Bihn has been part of my daily carry for almost 10 years and it still looks like it did the day I bought it.

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• #50Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  That Jansport and Osprey are higher up than Tom Bihn in this thread is a travesty.

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• #51Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Same here. I still have my high school Jansport. No holes, tears and all zippers work. I even used it mountain biking for a few years until I got an Osprey. No matter what I do to it, it will not die. It’s like the Toyota of backpacks.

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• #52Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  My wife has had the same Jansport since middle school. Our kids will be in middle school in a few years.

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• #53Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport with a leather bottom. I just gave mine from highschool to my kid for highschool.

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• #54Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport!!

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• #55Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  I’m with a few of the others here- I’ve never had a backpack strap break when wearing it in both shoulders. With that said, I’ve got a Carhartt backpack I’ve been lugging around for no less than 6 years that weighs between 45-55 lbs depending on what I’m toting around. Similarly I used to have a plain old black Jansport that held up for a long time and only got replaced because I wanted to extra pockets and compartments the Carhartt offered.

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• #56Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  The Jansport outlet was the best bang for your buck you could ever get Idk where else you could get a backpack that lasts for 25 years for under $25 These were 2nd quality (minor cosmetic differences only) but they lasted just as long

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• #57Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  I actually sent a thrifted Jansport bag to get repairs through the warranty once, many years ago. It's still in great condition.

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• #58Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport. They have a lifetime warranty. I am 42 and 4 years ago I pulled my high school pack out for classes I was taking and it ripped. Mailed it to them, replaced without issue. Also, The North Face has lifetime warranties as well. My hiking bag is a North Face Jester and I love it, 10 years with it and still going strong!

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• #59Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport has a lifetime warranty. Take advantage of it!

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• #60Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansports bags. If they break, they'll repair or it replace. Had mine 20+ years, been overfilled loads of times. Still like I bought it last week.

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• #61Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  JanSport has a lifetime warranty I think. Send it in, they’ll send you a brand new one

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• #62Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Never had too many issues with JanSport and Herchel

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• #63Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Look up FUL backpacks from the 2000s. The Overton was a beast. I used one daily (weekday and weekend) for 20 years and only needed to stitch the top handle once in the first 30 days. After that it was bombproof. Vintage Jansport and Crumpler as well. In fact, I hear the founder is back at Crumpler and they're making good stuff again. I have Crumpler laptop bags that I've owned for decades that look brand new. For a bit more, Tom Bihn bags are really well made and durable. You could also try stitching that strap back and seeing if the rest of the bag holds. Sometimes it will (see above).

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• #64Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport has lifetime warranty https://www.jansport.com/pages/warranty

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• #65Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jasport. They will replace or fix a problem with a bag for life. Used it in my kids when stitching broke and they fixed it. Great company. Stands behind their projects.

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• #66Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport. I’ve had the same backpack for almost 20 years. One of their most basic bags. The bottom has had the same quarter/sized holes for the last 12 years. None have grown. I can’t recommend any other brand. It’s Jansport.

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• #67Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  +1 for Vintage Jansport BUT if you regularly carry a gun, a laptop, or both…. 5.11 makes really good bags. I had one gain because of the zipper, but they have since changed the zipper design, and they replaced the bag right way. No fuss, no problems, just a brand new bag with the better zipper sent to my house in 2 days. I’m a fan

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• #68Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Is Jansport still a thing? Check ebay or similar for vintage jansport. Those things were indestructible in the '90s

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• #69Oct 10, 2025

  highschool backpacks

  Honestly, JanSport SuperBreak Plus is a solid pick. Mine lasted 4 years, still no tears. Big front pocket for keychains too. Just don’t overload it with water bottles like I did once.

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• #70Oct 10, 2025

  highschool backpacks

  My jansport is all pretty good. Going five years strong, they also still have a limited lifetime warranty.

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• #71Oct 10, 2025

  highschool backpacks

  If you can get jansport in New Zealand go for it.

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• #72Oct 8, 2025

  Backpack For On The Go Studies (College)

  so only real issue is almost no bags are made for 40oz bottles (the 40oz bottles are literally designed large enough to be something you have to carry and thus show off). Cute is something that's totally personal choice. for what you're looking for Jansport bags (with the list of items probably aim for the 30L size bags [https://jansport.ca/collections/laptop-bags](https://jansport.ca/collections/laptop-bags) Alternatively if you are going to have longer commutes (walking/biking etc.) something like an Osprey, or Deuter pack (osprey if you're in north America, Deuter if you're in Europe as available to you) Lastly if you aren't doing huge commutes take a peek at the Fjallraven laptop packs as they might work well.

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• #73Oct 8, 2025

  Getting smells out of a vintage Jansport Backpack

  I have a ton of vintage backpacks (and I even have my early 90's Jansport as well!) and yes, they can stink to high heaven if left in a drawer or in a storage tote or something for a long time. What worked for me is a good soak in cold water followed by like two weeks of hanging outside, rotating between sun (to dry at first) and then just air drying all opened up under a covered porch. Barbour jackets can be the same way but folks have good luck with vodka or 50/50 water and white vinegar, which I am going to try on a couple of backpacks as well. Enjoy that Jansport!

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• #74Oct 6, 2025

  Getting smells out of a vintage Jansport Backpack

  Try these other solutions first as they don't require special equipment, but if they fail I can't recommend an ozone generator enough for fixing bad smells. It's pricey for a one- off thing (you'll probably have to drop 50-100 quid on one) and you need to take care in where / how you use it but I've had a 100% success rate of them getting rid of some nasty smells like years of stale smoke from items from smokers' houses as well as a collection of strange and unpleasant doors.

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• #75Oct 5, 2025

  Getting smells out of a vintage Jansport Backpack

  Yes frankly----disregard what others might say. These were designed to rest in snow, on busses on rainy days (they get wet. You're going to do a one time clean to get this serviceable, then it's back to fairly well cared for. Washed lots of these over the years. You can , after drying put some leather treatment on. Leather gets wet (leather hats, shoes, leather messenger bags, leather saddle bags on motorcycles, hand bags).

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• #76Oct 4, 2025

  Best bifl for bag in this style? A lot seem mass produced and poor quality

  I love my Jansport too. I would also say Thule, as I’ve had nothing but good luck with them. Only had one loss and it was my fault - I ripped it accidentally with my gutting knife.

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• #77Oct 4, 2025

  Best bifl for bag in this style? A lot seem mass produced and poor quality

  I have a vintage matching pair of Jansport backpack and duffle bag. Tough as hell and has lasted me well over a decade of use. Using the backpack today too.

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• #78Oct 2, 2025

  Which everyday item do you wish had a true BIFL version?

  There's a few good ones for bags. Jansport for rucksacks, Osprey for hiking bag, Timbuk2 for travel bags. Patagonia is good for outerwear, then i'm sure you've heard of Darn Tough for socks

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• #79Oct 1, 2025

  What’s something you’ve bought once and never had to replace?

  I have a KitchenAid mixer and a Viking Huskvarna sewing machine that are 20 years old with 0 issues. I have a Jansport backpack that is 25+ years old and not worn out. I still use all 3 things regularly.

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• #80Sep 4, 2025

  Brands That Used to Be BIFL — But Aren't Anymore?

  Jansport backpacks, as soon as they moved manufacturing from Everett, Wa to overseas.

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• #81Aug 12, 2025

  What's the oldest thing you still use daily that works like new?

  Sterile laundry basket, spring maid towels and wash cloths, my GE alarm clock, and jansport laptop backpack all date back to starting college in 2002.

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• #82Aug 3, 2025

  Good backpack with storage and is canvas?

  My partner has had a JanSport since in the early 1980s. They have replaced the zippers several times, and replaced the entire bag a couple times, all under warranty.

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• #83Jul 10, 2025

  Trying to find a good travel backpack for Hawaii and other trips. What do you guys look for to know it’s bifl

  Osprey, Tim Buk 2, Samsonite, Coach, USGI, Jansport, Eberlestock, Mystery Ranch, 5.11, Oakley, Lowepro, Carhart, Vertx, and Maxpedition for example.

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• #84Jul 10, 2025

  Trying to find a good travel backpack for Hawaii and other trips. What do you guys look for to know it’s bifl

  Is this your main cabin bag or for day trips/sightseeing? While I’m a fan of Samsonite for my suitcase (their warranty delivers!), I think I would shy away from this look for daily use. I like a good beat up school bag from a company like Jansport, Eastpak, LL Bean, or Crate and Barrel that looks like it might just be holding diapers paired with a close-fitting sling/belt bag for the important stuff.

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• #85Jul 7, 2025

  Going to university for 5+ years – what are the best affordable BIFL items I should invest in?

  Good backpack (like Jansport or North Face), a solid stainless steel water bottle (like Hydro Flask), and a decent chef’s knife were my best long-term buys. Still use them years later and they’ve held up great.

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• #86Jul 7, 2025

  Going to university for 5+ years – what are the best affordable BIFL items I should invest in?

  If you are in shared housing, things can easily get damaged (by others) or "walk off", so I personally wouldn't truly invest in BIFL items such as quality stainless steel cookware that I think are amazing for when you have your own home. Also, will you have a single bed after college life, or move up to a double like most people? I think your thought process is good, but your best option is to stay away from trends like expensive cell phones that you change every year (a $100 Android will last you just as long as a $1000 iPhone) or buying fast fashion, as in "don't buy it (ever)... for life." Stick to classic styles and colors (for bedding, clothing, etc). Also learn how to identify and buy quality fabric and launder it properly. Being intentional about what you buy for food also goes a long way- it's easy to fall into the trap of getting a $6 coffee every day if that's what your study buddies are doing. So I guess on that note, maybe a coffee maker and a nice steel double-wall insulated cup or 2. Something like a Keurig or Nespresso coffeemaker is more expensive (and pollution creating) than a drip coffee maker/moka pot/french press, but even then is still cheaper per day than a Dunkin, which itself is like half the price of a Starbucks. I have a $100 stainless steel moka pot from Cuisinart, it's amazing, much better than the standard $15 aluminum one. A Jansport backpack will last you for life and will be replaced if it breaks. I'm almost 50 and still use a Jansport we bought in middle school (they've replaced it twice). Also look into cheap cell phone service, like Mint Mobile. Seriously no reason to pay $60+ a month when you could pay $15.

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• #87Jul 3, 2025

  Need Help Choosing a Backpack

  The more I look at pictures online, the more I think this might be the one. Bellroy also crossed my radar but I don't think you get as much for your money, but pay a premium for the name. Jansport are another one I'm eyeing up, so I'll decide between that, the Raven and the TomToc soon

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• #88Jul 3, 2025

  Trying to get a new backpack but also have questions

  Please don’t buy that bag. It is a very poor example of a waxed canvas and leather bag. The wording is very odd too: brass hardware (it should say solid brass hardware so it makes me think these are plated), “Waterproof” waxed canvas is a red flag. Waxed canvas is not waterproof it is water resistant and no legit brands market it as waterproof. If it is actually waterproof than it has a liner, which pretty much defeats the purpose of the waxed canvas. The straps are held on by cheap magnets. This bag should be $40 on Amazon and I’m sure you will find equal quality for $15 on Temu. For that price, you are limited in your options, but a Jansport from Walmart would be more durable. At around that price you can get some Fjallraven packs which are great. If you want the real version of the pack in the picture it will cost more than $129. Look at Frost River or even Filson (Filson on sale) to get a waxed canvas and leather bag worth having. Note: the materials for these bags (not the knock-off from rockcow but legit and well made bags) are very expensive and usually only come from a variety of places. Because of that they will tell you where they get their leather and where they get their canvas. If they don’t, it’s not worth your money. You want: Canvas from Halley Stevensons (a mill is Scotland) or the British Millerain, or a few American canvas makers Leather: lots of good tanneries, but it should say “full grain” not “genuine.” Genuine leather and even “natural genuine leather” like your bag says is scrap leather that is glued together and pressed into shape. Some of the best tanneries are: Horween, Wickett and Craig, SB Foot (great oil tanned leathers- very water resistant) and Sepici, Hermann Oak, and many others. But they should tell you where it’s from.

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• #89Jul 3, 2025

  Need Help Choosing a Backpack

  Jansport is a good shout out. I had one years ago and loved it. This might be a good pick for me

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• #90Jul 3, 2025

  Need Help Choosing a Backpack

  If money is no object I love my Goruck gr1 for everyday and gr2 for traveling. But jansport actually has a lifetime warranty and will repair or replace. My old school bag has probably been replaced at least twice and is still in good condition.

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• #91Jul 3, 2025

  Need Help Choosing a Backpack

  Swiss albeit are known to show a lot of failure on the zippers have a lot of designated space, not as much storage opportunity but are definitely decently durable I would go with a Jansport, especially considering price, but Thule also has a good selection that kind of meets in the middle as far as individual storage options and durability all around. Can’t speak for Thule personally but I have had the former backpacks and both are going strong for 15 years +. Really the best option ove had though is a hand me down leather bag. Sure it’s not vegan if that’s a concern but leather is a very durable material and the copper and brass fittings are 60-70 years old. It really all depends on your price range. But if you can make your wallet cry once knowing you’ll get a bifl I really think leather and other versatile dry bags are very suiting as far as durability. If you can give a bit a more specific price range I’m sure there’s a lot of people who could give you options based on your range.

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• #92Jul 1, 2025

  Name your top 5 BIFL items

  I still have my suede bottom Jansport purchases in 1991. My son has been using his for 7 years and recently the suede and they replaced it, no questions asked! (I was a little sad they did just replace the suede bottom, but at least they honored the warranty!)

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• #93Jul 1, 2025

  Name your top 5 BIFL items

  1. Camelbak 32oz water bottle 2. Makita Drill/Driver 3. Danner Boots 4. Classic JanSport Backpack 5. All-Clad Stainless Fry Pan I've had all these for the better part of a decade, and never had an issue with any of them. They'll be passed down the generations (save the boots... big feet)

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• #94Jul 1, 2025

  Name your top 5 BIFL items

  1. jansport Bag. 2. Yeti mug 3. Kindle e book reader 4. Walton's Irish tin whistle. 5. Casio g shock oak

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• #95Jul 1, 2025

  Childrens School Backpack

  Specifically the leather bottomed ones. My wife had had two in her life and she's in her 40's.

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• #96Jun 9, 2025

  What is your most unintentional BIFL item?

  The Jansport backpack my mom bought me 27 years ago for 3rd grade.

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• #97Jun 8, 2025

  Any suggestions for super durable backpacks?

  I’ve had a jansport for over 6 years and it just broke, I loved that bag and it lasted me so long!! I want to buy another one but I’m concerned that they’re skimping on quality now given the reviews I’ve seen. 

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• #98Jun 8, 2025

  What is your most unintentional BIFL item?

  I didn't buy it but my mother did. It's a Jansport backpack I got when I was 8. I'm 24 now and it's still going strong.

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• #99Jun 7, 2025

  What is your most unintentional BIFL item?

  and Jansport also has a lifetime warranty on their backpacks. If they can’t repair it, they’ll replace it.

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• #100Jun 7, 2025

  What is your most unintentional BIFL item?

  I have one that's lasted me and whoever had it before me through some crazy shit! I got this fuzzy leopard print jansport backpack from the storage room of the warehouse I used to live in, and my 9 or so roommates and I all assumed it belonged to some long-gone tenant. I declared finders keepers. We found an external hard drive in there full of somebody's porn collection. Nothing seems to be able to stain or tear this backpack.

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• #101Jun 6, 2025

  What is your most unintentional BIFL item?

  My JanSport Superbreak backpack is over 10 years old now. Bought it from a bargain bin—it was all I could afford back then. I've used it through High School & College to carry books, clothes, booze. It is still very much intact to this day.

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• #102Jun 6, 2025

  What is your most unintentional BIFL item?

  A Jansport backpack. I got it one day while out shopping with my dad for something else entirely. I bought it only because black was my favourite colour back then, so a black backpack clearly fit the description. I fully intended to use it for a year or two and change to a better one. That purchase was 27 years ago and since then it’s been with me through childhood, adolescence, college, post graduation, two jobs, a marriage and a child. It’s been used, misused, abused, dropped, run over, drowned, thrown and painted in glitter and it’s still going strong.

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• #103Jun 6, 2025

  What’s one item you bought that way outperformed its price?

  Jansport backpack that is 19 years old and only slightly worn despite regular use.

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• #104Jun 4, 2025

  The Best Backpack Today?

  JanSport

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• #105Jun 4, 2025

  BIFL items to gift to someone when they’re young?

  I got a jansport backpack (with the leather bottom) as a gift in third grade. It served me very well though all my school years and I still use it daily to carry my planner/notebook and lunchbox to work more than 20 years after I got it. I was allowed to decorate it with patches sewn on by my grandma, which made it feel extra special.

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• #106Jun 4, 2025

  ThisTumi bag was stupid expensive but it's seen a dozen countries and been kicking ass for 11 years.

  10 years is not impressive for a backpack. Why does this sub think otherwise? Both the ogio (nice) and Nike backpacks (comparatively cheap) that I got as corporate swag have lasted over 10 years and look new. I still have the jansport backpack I got for middle school 25 years ago and that one looks pretty worn but still works as a backspace. There's zero durability related reason to pay $$$ for a backpack. If you’re paying $$$ for a backpack it’s a status symbol and a fashion statement. 

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• #107Jun 3, 2025

  ThisTumi bag was stupid expensive but it's seen a dozen countries and been kicking ass for 11 years.

  i have an old targus laptop backpack from 2003. it has outlasted every other backpack including a mid 2000's tumi, a few jansports, and a tissot. replaced it with a used us made mil rucksack, those and mid 90's marlboro duffels are amazing.

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• #108Jun 2, 2025

  ThisTumi bag was stupid expensive but it's seen a dozen countries and been kicking ass for 11 years.

  Have a jansport that’s seen 40 countries with me over 10 years. Tumi sucks for the price

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• #109Jun 2, 2025

  ThisTumi bag was stupid expensive but it's seen a dozen countries and been kicking ass for 11 years.

  I've been using the same Jansport Hatchet regularly for 9 years. I want to say I spent maybe $60-70 on it. I stuff it to the brim every time I travel, used it for school for a few years, regular hiking, and grocery shopping. Still going strong, plus they have a lifetime warranty. Nothing fancy. I did opt for an Osprey for a duffel bag over a Jansport, but mainly because the Jansport lacked the storage compartments and convertability to a backpack (we've had the Osprey for a year and a half and love it, and the lifetime warranty was what sold me). To be fair, I can't speak to the build quality on Jansport bags 9 years later since I haven't had to replace mine, but even an Osprey doesn't cost $600. Ridiculous.

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• #110Jun 2, 2025

  ThisTumi bag was stupid expensive but it's seen a dozen countries and been kicking ass for 11 years.

  My highschool Jansport is going on almost 20, unless you're just abusing the crap out of it I don't think backpacks are something that typically fail.

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• #111May 10, 2025

  Everyday and Travel Backpack

  Jansport or Eastpak. They are not 'high' end, but for the price seem to last well, and come with a lengthy guarantee.

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• #112May 10, 2025

  Brands you swear by that have Buy It For Life quality products

  Jansport school bag

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• #113May 4, 2025

  Don't sleep on Jansport's lifetime warranty

  Jansport right pack yeah they do, don’t recommend leather bottom tho

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• #114Apr 13, 2025

  BIFL: What is the best backpack for book-sized pouches

  The old school jan sports bags were great, but I'd recommend osprey daylight bags. They have a no questions asked lifetime guarantee on all their bags

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• #115Apr 8, 2025

  Backpack for college

  Jansport. It has lifetime warranty as well, but good luck trying to break that bag.

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• #116Apr 8, 2025

  Backpack for college

  Absolutely nothing wrong with a classic Jansport. Functional, affordable, no gimmicks, and they last.

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• #117Apr 6, 2025

  NYT just put out a list of their BIFL picks

  I wouldn’t put current-era LL Bean sewn products on a BIFL list. I was aware that the company had changed their “forever for any reason” warranty policy due to abuse, but assumed they still stood behind their products when they failed. We bought our kids LL Bean backpacks a couple years ago for school. One of them just had a seam failure. Not a “kid threw it down a gravelly hill” situation, but just a straight up “the seam came undone during normal use” situation. I contacted their customer service, and they told me to kick rocks. Basically, “that sounds like wear and tear and we don’t cover that.” I’m not saying every BIFL item has to have a lifetime warranty, but it speaks to how the manufacture feels about the quality of their products. And, if you want a BIFL backpack, get a Jansport or another backpack with a real warranty.

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• #118Mar 11, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  jansport will send you a new pack if yours has stuck zippers, etc. No questions. Osprey too

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• #119Mar 11, 2025

  What is the longest lasting item you've bought?

  Jansport backpack from middle school, I still use it 30 years later

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• #120Mar 10, 2025

  looking for a backpack for college

  Give Jansport another try, specifically one with the leather reinforced base. I won’t admit how long mine had lasted—throughout my extended college years and well beyond.

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• #121Mar 10, 2025

  looking for a backpack for college

  Bro this forums is turning to ABSOLUTE ASS. YOU PEOPLE. "I want a big backpack" "HAVE YOU TRIED THIS BRAND THAT COSTS $200 PER BACKPACK??? ITS COOL AND IM COOL BECAUSE I WEAR IT, BE COOL LIkE ME" This forum is turning into a "look at me and my bougie tastes" shithole. The answer here is JANSPORT, or EASTSPORT, or Outdoor Products. They are all good products. They don't cost a lot. They have a lifetime warranty. There is a good eastsport for $19 at Walmart, same with Outdoor Products. Jansport is a bit more expensive.

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• #122Mar 9, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I still have my Jansport after 30 years only one broken zipper

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• #123Mar 9, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I used the warranty on a Jansport, 100% recommend. The old one was several years old, the replacement one has made it 7-8 years so far, and is fine.

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• #124Mar 9, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  My 25 year old Jansport has been put though hell repeatedly and there's absolutely nothing wrong with it. I completely stuffed it with heavy textbooks in college, have dragged it on vacations, hikes, music festivals, etc. Zippers work like new, straps and everything else still firmly attached.

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• #125Mar 8, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  My jansport has gone through the hardest years of my life a backpack can go through and didn’t even come out stained. Can’t speak highly enough about them

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• #126Mar 8, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I’ve had a jansport backpack since I was 8 and I’m 31. It’s gotten me through elementary, middle and high school, college and early work years. Now it’s a dedicated travel bag to hold all our essentials when we go to fairs, on road trips, or flights. They’re like 60-80$ and worth every single penny

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• #127Mar 8, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  Another vote for Jansport. Still going strong after 12 years.

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• #128Mar 8, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I just bought a circa 1990s JanSport from back when they were still made in the USA. I will never have to buy another backpack. I cannot stress enough how much better value you will get by buying second hand high quality.

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• #129Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  Can't go wrong with Jansport. Graduated in the 90s and my HS backpack still holds up great

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• #130Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I have a jansport that I think is the 34L one you mention and have done for a little over a decade. It's good, it's held up well (one of the zips is now quite stiff and I had to fix the water bottle pocket, I got it in high school and I'm almost 30 now). However, I find it's a little big for day-to-day use and it lacks a dedicated laptop pocket or similar. I still use it for short trips away or large grocery store trips, but something smaller and with a good laptop pocket made more sense for day-to-day.

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• #131Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I'm all for bifl in general, but I've used my previous ~$20 backpack for about 6 years before the straps couldn't endure it anymore. I used it daily to carry my personal belongings, but I've also carried tools in it, camping gear, and varied stuff overall. My current one is going on year 3, also $20, and the bottom is getting a bit thin but so far so good. I can see myself spending $100 for a Jansport, but anything above unless you have a specific need for certain pockets or features seems to make little sense for the price difference.

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• #132Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I had a Jansport I got before I started 3rd grade in 2002. My mom still has it and uses it.

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• #133Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  Wife and I are on vacation right now. We had to go to the store to get her a new backpack because her Jansport ripped open. She's 38 and has had it since high school. That's pretty damn good.

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• #134Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  My jansport lasted me 14 years, the front zipper got stuck. sent pics to the company and they sent me a list of colours to choose from for my new bag, shipped to me within the week for free with warranty. Warranty applies to the new bag too.

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• #135Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  Here to second Jansport. I still have a 40 year old pack I use on occasion.

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• #136Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I still have my Jansport from high school (in my 40s now). I don't use it much these days but it is still functional. I only use a backpack as a 'personal item' when flying.

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• #137Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  For the price, its hard to beat JanSport.

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• #138Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I bought my nephew a Jansport backpack in 1st grade. He's in 6th grade this year and it still look brand new. Just for a change, I bought him an expensive Adidas backpack at the beginning of this year and the whole zipper blew out of it within two weeks. His backpack is always hauling like 30lbs of stuff and he is not nice to them. The JanSport looks a little boring, but man, that thing is a legit tank. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the brand to anyone. He is brutal on backpacks and his is taking everything he can throw at it for 5 years.

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• #139Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  Can’t speak to today’s construction, but my Jansport lasted me through 6 years of uni and I had it for at least 10 years after that. It never broke - I think I ended up giving it to charity.

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• #140Mar 2, 2025

  Are Jansport backpacks still good quality?

  You can do better, but can do worse as well, even at higher prices. I have the Right Pack and Inbound Pack bag. The Right Pack has held up perfectly from daily use for 5+ years. For the $60 I paid, I'm happy with it. If I had any complaints with it, it doesn't have much bottom support, so you have to be mindful with it if you don't put something in the bottom to support impacts or drops. I picked up the Inbound Pack a while back and it's the perfect bag to me. Much better padding, while still being sleek and not bulky for my needs. Has a heavy duty bottom, and the zippers are really smooth. Perfect organization options, and the straps are better than the Right Pack. Anyway, I've looked at other bags that cost quite a bit more, and I found them lower quality than most Jansport bags. So it's good to shop around if you can. Some things look better online than they do in-person, so it's good to shop around.

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• #141Feb 8, 2025

  What brands do you trust to always deliver a high quality product?

  Jansport backpacks

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• #142Feb 2, 2025

  What’s one product you bought that has lasted forever and was totally worth it?

  Jansport backpack I’ve had mine since highschool and it looks brand new

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• #143Jan 10, 2025

  What did you buy not realizing you bought it for life?

  I have this black Jansport snowboard jacket I got in 1994. I use it every single year and still do. No issues with it, ever. I'm amazed.

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• #144Jan 9, 2025

  Thoughts on the Osprey Flare 27? It seems to have most of the features I want but would love to know your guys' experience. I'm looking to use this backpack daily for college for the next 5 or so years, at least.

  I have the Proxima, and I love it. I use it on my multi train commute to work and everyday stuff like walking to the store down the street. Super comfy and can hold a ton of stuff. Not sure about this model, but the Proxima has a cool document pocket, a tablet pocket, and a separate protected laptop pocket.

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• #145Jan 5, 2025

  Jansport zip-up hoodie - 24 years old and still going strong

  My 22 year old ASU hoodie is also jansport and still going strong! I had to check the tag this made me curious.

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• #146Jan 4, 2025

  After my Disneyworld with my family my old Jansport backpack just isn't cutting it anymore. Time for me to get an upgrade.

  I've had a Recon since 2000 and I still use it. I did have to restitch a little rip on the bottom about 5 years ago but still a good bag. All the zippers have turned blue from oxidation but they still work great!

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• #147Jan 4, 2025

  Stylish and Functional Men’s Backpack for Urban Use?

  Maybe not the style you’re looking for but my Jansport backpack has gone through 5 years of college and 5 years of daily adult life with absolutely zero issues. Hope this helps!

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• #148Jan 2, 2025

  Jansport zip-up hoodie - 24 years old and still going strong

  I have a Jansport backpack from circa 2001 that is still as robust as ever as well as my own Virginia Tech Jansport hooded sweatshirt from 2011

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• #149Jan 1, 2025

  Jansport zip-up hoodie - 24 years old and still going strong

  I had a Jansport backpack in the late 90s that was built like a tank. I wish I knew what happened to it, because the new Jansport stuff is pretty crappy. I think they moved production of just about everything to Asia in the early 2000s.

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• #150Jan 1, 2025

  Jansport zip-up hoodie - 24 years old and still going strong

  I have a Jansport backpack from 1995 and it is still in absolutely amazing condition.

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• #151Jan 1, 2025

  Jansport zip-up hoodie - 24 years old and still going strong

  Dude I've been wearing this at least once a week during the fall and winter for the last 24 years. I wore it today.

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• #152Dec 6, 2015

  [BIFL Request] Inexpensive cotton canvas backpack

  kinda opposed to jansport because most of it is cordura, but I might have to settle. I currently own two Jansport Right packs (one of which I'm replacing, simply because I sat down at a park and got gum on it and I can't get it out, not because it broke or anything, its holding up quite well) and I'm looking for something new but about the same size (or bigger) and with a similar layout.

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• #153Dec 6, 2015

  [BIFL Request] Inexpensive cotton canvas backpack

  It'll be tough finding anything bifl with out leather but a regular jansport has survived so many yrs through middle school and into high school.

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