10 Best Clear and Mesh Backpacks Reviewed in 2024
Stacey Joseph
Plenty of schools around the world now require that kids bring their supplies and belongings in clear or mesh backpacks when entering the school grounds. Because of past problems at schools with violent acts, this is now the norm. Visibility of backpack contents is necessary to keep our schools safer and more secure. This visibility also helps the child because they can tell at a glance without opening the pack if they have something they are looking for.
They can tell if they have that science book they need for homework tonight by just looking at the outside of the backpack. We judge these selections according to their ease of use, capacity, design, and materials used in creating them. These criteria help you decide which of these excellent packs is right for your child. Whether it is mesh or transparent, we highlight these perfect outstanding backpacks just for you!
In a Hurry? The test winner after 45 hrs of research
Made of 100% polyester material
Closure is a drawstring
Quick-drying and strong
Mesh of open weave
Nice assortment of bright solid colors
10 Best Clear & Mesh Backpacks Reviewed
1. Speedo Deluxe Ventilator
Made of 100% polyester material
Closure is a drawstring
Quick-drying and strong
Mesh of open weave
Nice assortment of bright solid colors
Outer pockets were not large enough for a few customers
Bottom seam tore said some people
Made of 100% polyester material, this Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Bag has a lining of the same type of fabric. The closure is a drawstring, and the bag is situated with a twelve-inch drop from the shoulder on the body.
Read moreQuick-drying and strong with the mesh of open weave, it comes in a nice assortment of bright solid colors that kids will love. There are sturdy straps for carrying on the shoulders and improved materials for the construction and a new style. This wonderful bag features a Speedo classic shape that is widely popular. Included is a large front pocket with a zipper closure and an expandable mesh pocket without a closure for immediate access to small necessities such as keys or a phone.
Design
Mesh bags are hugely popular now with kids and adults because of their lightness and see-through abilities. In many places, such bags are required for safety, but many people like them for the material and style.
Capacity
You will be quite surprised at the amount of gear you can pack in this seemingly medium-sized backpack. It holds all you need for the day, whether it is books, clothing, shoes, or electronics.
Materials
Made of durable mesh material to be see-through and well-ventilated, this incredible bag will last for several seasons. The mesh makes the bag quick-drying and also aerates the contents too.
Ease of use
Perfect for gym clothes, swimwear, general use, or school supplies, this backpack offers quick access to all of your gear. The front pockets are quick to use, and the drawstring main opening is so simple to open and close.
2. K-Cliffs See Through Backpack
Comfortable ergonomic S-Curve design
Shoulder straps are double and padded
Keeps contents safe from water and rain
Approved for all checkpoint places
Zippers are heavy duty
Can be hard to put on and take off for some users
A few said it is not waterproof
Comprised of a thicker PVC plastic than other leading brands, this clear backpack is good for school, work, general use, and security checkpoints. The visibility and travel are easier with this design of being clear, and the zippers are heavy duty.
Read moreComfortable all day with the ergonomic S-Curve design that fits the body well, it is made of smooth nylon and double layers of material that will not irritate the skin. The shoulder straps are double and padded, plus the material is waterproof and simple to keep clean with just wiping it off often. This amazing backpack keeps contents safe from water and rain and has ample space for books, clothing, gear, and other items. It is approved for all checkpoint places such as stadiums and sports tournaments.
Design
Offered in many different colors of the fabric seams, it includes a large main section, front pocket, and side pockets of mesh. Everything inside can be easily seen from the exterior for safety and quick identification.
Capacity
Travelers and children of all ages will appreciate the large amount of space that this product has to offer. Load it up with your books, notebooks, folders, laptop, tablet, phone, and clothing for all-day use.
Materials
Created of a thick PVC plastic that is much thicker than other models, this splendid transparent bag is durable to last a long time with regular use. it comes in a good mix of colors that are used for the seam construction.
Ease of use
The main section of this pack opens up all the way as the zipper goes down to the bottom. This gives the user full access to the bulk of the pack, plus there are side and front pockets too.
3. SMARTY Nylon Backpack
Bottom is reinforced with ballistic nylon
Triple stitching and military-grade materials
Bendable, and comfortable to wear
Sleeve for a tablet or laptop
Zippers are smooth and high quality
Can be smaller than expected
Bottom is not clear
This heavy-duty clear backpack has a large front zippered section, a quick-access mesh pocket, a zippered side pocket, and a water bottle pocket on the side of mesh.
Read moreThere is also one large main compartment with a zipper closure included on this backpack that is one of the largest clear products offered online. The bottom is reinforced with ballistic nylon, and the zippers are smooth and of high quality. Made similar to hiking and travel packs with the triple stitching and military-grade materials, this pack is soft to the skin. The interior has a sleeve for a tablet or laptop for safe carrying.
Design
The user of this fabulous backpack will be able to see everything inside at a glance. This makes it so easy to use and safe. Others can also see what you have for security purposes.
Capacity
There is a place for everything you want to carry along including a water bottle on the side, small important items on the other side, a quick access pocket in the front, and everything else in the large middle section.
Materials
Available in a gray color with solid gray straps for the shoulders, it is comprised of a strong, thick plastic material that is durable. You can enjoy using it for several seasons since it is so durable.
Ease of use
It offers clear visibility of contents for safety and security and is bendable and comfortable to wear and use. the many sections and compartments make this an easily accessible pack.
4. Trail Maker Reinforced Straps
Comes in a variety of solid colors
Shoulder straps are reinforced
Dual zipper on the main section
Shoulder straps are comfortable
Zippers have metal and cloth tabs
Front pocket tore for a few users
Has no side pockets
Coming in a variety of solid colors, this wonderful clear backpack has colored fabric for the seams and the shoulder straps. It is good for sporting events, security, schools, and general use.
Read moreThe straps are reinforced to be extra strong and long-lasting, and the PVC material is transparent and durable. It has one zippered front pocket for quick access items and a large center compartment for all other gear. Included is a dual zipper on the main section that is easy to grip with the metal and cloth tabs. It makes security and checkpoints quick and easy. The shoulder straps are comfortable for wearing for long periods.
Design
Even though the whole pack is transparent, you can still choose a color of the fabric that holds the pieces together. The edging is differently colored and can be matched with other items such as folders and binders.
Capacity
The front pocket is great for smaller items such as pens, erasers, keys, phone, and a calculator. The larger section is ideal for all types of items such as books, clothing, laptops, tablets, phones, and water bottles.
Materials
Being transparent, this PVC pack is perfect for places that demand clear bags for security reasons. The seams are stitched with a fabric of a certain color, and there are many to choose from for a favorite.
Ease of use
For those users who want everything in one place for quick access, this is the backpack for you. without side pockets, everything must go in the front pocket or the main compartment.
5. Amazon Basics Clear School Backpack
Made of PVC plastic that is water-resistant
Whole pack is clear, even the bottom
Two mesh side pockets for water bottles
Shoulder straps are reliable and reinforced
Easy to keep clean
Could use more small pockets
Might come folded and creased
Made just for school purposes, this Amazon Basics Backpack is ideal for books, binders, notebooks, folders, and accessories. Made of PVC plastic that is water-resistant, the whole pack is see-through even the bottom.
Read morePerfect for external viewing for security and finding items inside, it is heavy-duty, durable, and good for heavy loads. The shoulder straps are reliable, strong, and reinforced to provide you with service for a long time. There are two mesh expandable pockets on the sides for water bottles and one front pocket of mesh for small things such as pens, erasers, and pens. Included is one large compartment for the main section and one smaller section in the front. Both of these areas are zippered, and the whole backpack is very easy to keep clean.
Design
Even though this pack only comes in one color of black around the edges, it will go with any type of outfit or gear that you carry with you. Being clear for the most part it fits in with security programs and gives a good view inside.
Capacity
Kids have the large main compartment, a smaller section in front, and three external pockets for the things they need to grab right away. It may look small, but this pack can hold plenty of belongings.
Materials
PVC plastic seems to be the material of choice when it comes to clear backpacks in general. This one is comprised of a strong PVC that will last a long time with regular use.
Ease of use
While it does not have an overload of pockets and compartments, there are just enough to make this a backpack that is easy for smaller kids to use efficiently. The larger items in one place and the smaller ones in another.
6. EastSport Mesh Backpack
Available in various solid colors and stripes
Has padded straps for the shoulders
Mesh fabric is polyester and durable
Two main sections have zipper closures
Shoulder straps are adjustable
Some people experienced tears within a few months
Can be smaller than expected
Available in a bunch of various solid colors and patterns of stripes, the Eastsport Mesh Backpack includes one main large section, one smaller front area, and side pockets for water bottles or smaller items.
Read moreIt has padded straps for the shoulders that are adjustable, plus the two main sections have zipper closures. The mesh fabric is polyester and durable for long-time use. This pack features a webbing loop on the top and chorded pulls on the zippers that glide easily. Kids will appreciate and like the basic design of this pack with its external and internal compartments for getting to things quickly.
Design
Made to be tough and sturdy for kids, this pack has separate side sections for water bottles or smaller things such as calculators, phones, keys, and pens and pencils.
Capacity
Plenty of school supplies can be packed into this product easily. The big items such as books, binders, notebooks, and a laptop can fit into the large compartment. The smaller one in the front can takes all other items.
Materials
Some schools demand that kids use either clear or mesh backpacks these days for security purposes. This one complies with those requests since it is a polyester mesh material.
Ease of use
Since this is a mesh bag, the user can find things quickly without even opening the pack. It is not clear, but items can still be found fast without any problems with the flexible and ventilated fabric.
7. JanSport Mesh Pack
Several colors are available
Made of 100% polyester
One slip pocket and one exterior section
Top loop for hanging or carrying
Long-lasting strong material
Was too large for some people
Could use some more pockets
Several colors are available for this JanSport Mesh Backpack that is made of 100% polyester material. It is long-lasting, strong, versatile, and durable for regular use.
Read moreIt includes one slip pocket and one exterior compartment. This small pocket on the inside hangs freely to hold the smaller items that usually get lost in large bags and packs. There is a top loop for hanging the pack up or carrying it by hand easily. Even though it is not fully see-through, the user can look through the mesh material to find contents quickly when needed.
Design
This is one backpack that could use some more pockets for better organization, but its simplicity is terrific for smaller kids that just need a basic pack. They can access all of their possessions in the main large section nicely.
Capacity
Plenty of gear can be toted with this backpack for school, work, or general use. just load it up with books, papers, folders, tablets, a laptop, binders, and clothing items that can be carried comfortably.
Materials
The polyester mesh is great for those that want a durable but soft and flexible pack. The offered colors make it ideal for anyone that want to match up to their team colors or wardrobe styles.
Ease of use
Mesh bags are just as easy to use as clear ones, plus they do give some privacy of the inside contents. This one has just enough pockets and sections to stay organized with minimal care.
8. BAGAIL Heavy Duty
Double zippers on the two large sections
Free of lead and freeze-proof PVC
Stitching is durable and long-lasting
Straps are reinforced, padded, and adjustable
Provides great visibility for locating items
Thick plastic creases easily
Some people experienced tears within a few months
This Bagail Backpack is transparent with light blue seams, shoulder straps, and front and side mesh pockets. It provides great visibility for locating items inside and is perfect for places that require a see-through pack.
Read moreThere is one large main section, a medium area, two side pockets that are open, and a front mesh pocket for keys, pens, pencils, and other small items. Included are double zippers on the two large sections to make entry easier and closure more secure. This pack is free of lead and freeze-proof with the high-quality PVC material. the stitching is durable and long-lasting, plus the polyester shoulder straps are reinforced, padded, and adjustable for comfort.
Design
You will be able to see all the contents inside this transparent backpack with ease. It is perfect for schools that require such safe and secure packs and can make life easy for the user in finding items quickly.
Capacity
The two larger sections of this product give the user ample space to put all their needed items for the day. The two side and front pockets of mesh provide the small compartments necessary to keep small items neat.
Materials
Just because you have to have a clear backpack does not mean that it cannot have some pop of color. This one is terrific for both boys and girls with light blue seams and mesh pockets.
Ease of use
Not only is this pack very easy to use and access, but the shoulder straps are adjustable and comfortable for long periods of carrying the pack. Small kids can tote this pack with ease even with a moderate load.
9. NIKE Brasilia Mesh
Comes in a few color choices
Durable and long-lasting mesh
Front zippered and two side pockets
Shoulder straps are padded and comfortable
Two large main middle areas
Can fray in some well-used areas soon
Was smaller than a few users expected
Sporting the famous Nike logo on the front, this Brasilia Mesh Backpack features two large main areas in the middle and is made of a durable and long-lasting mesh material.
Read moreIt comes in a few colors to give customers a good choice of options and is good for both girls and boys with the design and colors offered. The shoulder straps are padded and comfortable for long time wear whether this pack is for work or school purposes. There is a front zippered pocket and two side pocket sections for water bottles or small items that you want to have quick access to and not open the pack.
Design
Kids can pick a color of this pack that best suits their school colors or their favorite hue. It is the seams and the mesh pockets that have various colors since the majority of the material is see-through and clear.
Capacity
Being a fairly large pack, even little kids can tote it well with just minimal items inside. For older children, it can hold a full day’s worth of school supplies to get them through the day.
Materials
Mesh is a good choice of material for backpacks so the user and others can see the contents inside. This pack allows good visibility with the durable mesh and also great durability.
Ease of use
The most sought-after part of a backpack for those that utilize them all the time is the pockets on the inside and outside of the pack. This product has just enough of them to keep you well organized without confusion.
10. High Sierra Airhead
Rain cover to protect from water damage
Closures are zippers for good security
Great for laptop, tablet, or smartphone
Pocket for MP3 device and headphone port
Monster hook for extra gear or a helmet
Was smaller than some people expected
Torn in a few spots after a few months said a few buyers
The High Sierra Airhead Backpack is made of a mesh material in black or red colors that is see-through for item identification and security. It is good for clothing, books, and other needed supplies.
Read moreIncluded is a rain cover to protect the pack and contents from water damage and the closures are zippers for the best security. Included is a monster hook for attaching extra gear or a helmet and a cellphone pocket that is connected to the shoulder straps. The shoulder straps are comfortable and cool with the airflow mesh material of S-shaped Vapel. The user’s back remains dry and cool because of the ventilating mesh fabric.
Design
This fabulous backpack has extra reinforcement with the compression straps that are adjustable and angled. Users can clip extra gear or a helmet to the pack with the large monster hook in the front.
Capacity
There is one large main section for big items and several smaller pockets in the front for small necessities. Users can stay well-organized with such a pack because there is a place for everything.
Materials
The mesh material of this pack is highly beneficial for the user since it allows visibility of the interior contents and also gives the wearer a comfortable feel with the cooler material.
Ease of use
It is great to carry all electronic devices such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, plus has a pocket for an MP3 device and headphone port. These special pockets make the pack easier to use.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Design
The design of a backpack is quite similar no matter which style or brand you pick. They must all have several compartments at least to organize the gear inside and keep it protected and orderly as it is toted from place to place. There is a main section on all of these listed packs and exterior pockets to hold quick access essentials, such as keys, money, cards, pens, pencils, or a calculator.
All of them have zipper closures too except for the first item which is a drawstring pack. You would expect the clear backpacks to not have any color at all, but they do indeed have a pop of color on them. The seams are of a different material which adds an outline of the pack in various hues.
Capacity
We feature different packs that have only a few compartments and some that have many. The more pockets and sections a pack has then the better organized the user can be. These can all hold what a child would need for the day in the way of books, paper, binders, notebooks, and small accessories. Even clothing will fit into most of these in the large middle sections. Water bottles can fit on the side of those that have the expandable mesh pockets on the exterior.
Materials
Whether you decide on a mesh or clear backpack, you are probably looking for one that has good visibility of the interior contents. Some schools are requiring these now because of past horrific incidents, so they can view the backpack contents at a glance. The mesh is see-through too but not as much as a clear backpack is. For the best visibility of the contents, go with a transparent pack.
Ease of Use
Backpacks, in general, are quite easy to use if you have a place for everything you want to carry along. It becomes complicated if there are not enough compartments for your belongings. Then people must keep moving items around to find what they are looking for that does not have a permanent spot in the pack. These listed backpacks are all fairly moderate in size and pocket space to give kids ample room for their small and large items. This makes them easy to use and comfortable.
Design Capacity Materials Ease of Use Other Factors to Consider
Durability
The expected durability and life of a backpack depends greatly on how often it is used and how it is treated. Some kids can be very rough on a backpack thus decreasing its life as a suitable pack for school. Just the regular everyday use of the bag with putting items in and taking them out is hard on a pack. Each of these products is durable and should last for at least one full year of school. Some buyers did notice tears within a couple of months, but it is not known the type of treatment the pack went through in this time period to be fair.
Comfort
The comfort of a backpack comes in several forms. The shoulder straps are comfortable on the majority of these items because they are well-padded and cushioned. The many sections to put items in is comforting to the user because they can find a place for all of their supplies. This prevents the endless hunting for things when all items are crammed together in just one large compartment. Because these packs have great visibility of the interior sections, the user can see at a quick glance if they have something they are looking for or not. This is comforting too when searching for things.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What is a benefit for the child to carry a clear backpack?
When the kid is trying to take a quick inventory either at school before leaving or at home, a clear or even mesh backpack will allow the contents to be seen from the outside. they will not have to dig through the bag to see if they have everything they need for their homework or for the day at school.
q: Is there another advantage of students having clear backpacks in school besides increased security?
Yes, with all kids having the same clear backpack, there is uniformity in the accessory among all students. No one will stick out for having a lesser brand or color scheme than others that could possibly afford designer bags. All bags are similar in transparency and form to make everyone equal in the pack they carry.
q: Which is better to have, a clear or mesh backpack?
This is not an easy question to answer for everyone in general. It greatly depends on the requirements of the school as to which they expect students to buy and what the user prefers. Mesh bags in general are cooler on the back and stretchable somewhat. They allow some visibility of the inside contents, but not to the extent that a clear backpack has. Mesh is often not as durable as the transparent packs either. For security reasons, either one is great to have.
q: Do the clear backpacks have some color on them?
Yes, they do. The PVC plastic material is stitched together using another fabric along the seams and for the smaller pockets of mesh. It is this material that adds a splash of color to the transparent bags.
q: Are these packs all about the same size?
Yes, in general, backpacks have to be able to hold the books, folders, binders, notebooks, and small accessories that kids need to bring to class and home for homework. These vary in size a bit, but all are suitable for kids to use for school or general purposes.
q: How long should any of these clear backpacks last a child with regular everyday use?
A full school year should be easily obtained with any one of these mesh or clear backpacks. As long as kids are mindful or how to properly treat a backpack and realize that it cannot take extreme rough abuse, then they should have it all year at least.
