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69 fun ideas and alternatives for “Anything But a Backpack Day”

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Backpacks are a fact of life for most kids, starting in middle school. Why not have fun with it? Anything But a Backpack Day is a popular event many schools host during spirit weeks (special themed days to build school spirit and community).

The challenge: Lug those books in anything but a backpack. We’ve seen it all, from cardboard spaceships and jetpacks to baskets and shopping bags. Get inspired with these fun, creative ideas and backpack alternatives to win "Anything But a Backpack Day":

Worth the laughs

Mini shopping cart: Got a child-size shopping cart or collapsible rolling cart? As long as it’s easily transportable and allowed by the school, it’s a fun break!
Stroller: Repurpose a foldable stroller so they can push their books or lunch.
Wagon: Radio Flyers make for a flashy – and easy – vehicle.
Label your backpack “Not a Backpack”: Well played, kids.
Cooking pot: It’ll turn heads and make people laugh. Use a large stock pot or lobster pot to fit the most stuff.
Bar cart: If you have a small but sturdy one, it’s perfect for stowing stuff and tooling around.
Guitar case or other instrument carrier: Channel your inner rock star and use a guitar case to carry your things. Make sure the buckles are strong and secure!
Picnic basket: Pack a touch of whimsy and use a picnic basket as a fun and surprisingly roomy substitute.
Pet carrier: Cat and small dog carriers (minus the pets) with handles are the perfect size for a few books and supplies.
Wheelbarrow: If it fits within the rules, kids can transport their books and help out in gardening class.

From around the house

Laundry basket: Collapsible, lightweight, canvas or plastic.
Cardboard box: Chance are you’ve got one. Best for notebooks or light supplies.
Reusable shopping bags: You probably have a pile stashed in your pantry. Use fabric or plastic bags, as the paper will rip.
Bucket: Who said buckets are just for carrying water? They can also carry your notebooks, pens, and even a packed lunch! Watch where you swing it, though.
Rolling suitcase or briefcase: This is a great option for students who have to carry lots of heavy textbooks or laptops.
Beach bag: Out with the shovels and towels, in with school supplies!
Cooler: The ultimate lunchbox (plus room for books and everything else).
Duffel bag: Duffel bags, AKA “gym bags,” are versatile and can hold a lot of items while still being easy to carry if you don’t weigh them down too much. You can also wear it as a makeshift backpack.
Crossbody sling bag: Sling bags are worn over one shoulder and can be adjusted to fit your needs, making them a great alternative to a traditional backpack.
Laptop bag: If you only need to bring your laptop and a few other items, try using a sleek and professional laptop bag instead of a bulky backpack.
String bag or drawstring backpack: These lightweight bags are perfect for carrying a few items and can even be folded up and put in your pocket or purse when not in use.
Trash can: Small or medium rubber can hold a lot if it’s manageable.
Rolling mop bucket: Use the mop handle to push your stuff around all day. But keep the mop in the bucket, no swinging around!
Shower caddy: Organize all their school bits and bobs in the compartments.
Trash bag: Just remind the kids not to throw it out!

For younger kids or lighter loads

Tote bag: Lightweight and easy to carry as long as you don’t have too many books. Perfect for elementary school.
Fanny pack: If your child just needs the basics, fanny packs, AKA belt bags or bum bags, have been back for a while. They’re perfect for holding essentials without weighing you down.
Gift bag: So cute and fun! Especially those Amazon bags with the drawstring.
Pillowcase: An old pillowcase you no longer use can make for a nostalgic and fun alternative to a backpack.
Tool belt: Strap it on and go!
Yoga mat bag: The chillest way to walk to class.
Sleeping bag or tent bag: Light as a feather and sturdy!
Holiday stocking: Little kids will love storing crayons and erasers in there.
Socks: Go wild with patterns! Stuff two and throw ‘em over your shoulders.
Milk crate: The ultimate multipurpose storage isn’t just for college dorms.
Happy Meal box: With or without the actual happy meal for lunch!

Fashion-forward

Purse or handbag: If you have a bag collection (not too expensive!) and don’t mind lending one for the day, let your tweens or teens shop your closet.
Messenger bag: Worn across the body, these timelessly trendy carriers can hold everything you need for the day while still looking hip.
Travel or makeup bag: Just like you’d need on a plane – roomy but practical, fitting a laptop, book, and supplies.
Top hat: You'd be surprised how much you can fit in there, especially if you know some magic tricks.
Bike with basket: Attach a cute basket, fill it with the essentials, and let them bike to school if they’re ready and it’s safe.
Hatbox: Make like Audrey Hepburn jet-setting on holiday.
Diaper bag: Literally designed to pack as much as possible while looking cute.

Artistic DIY

Cardboard spaceship: Makes a perfect after-school activity.
Stuffed animal: Hollow out an old, unused stuffed animal into a unique, adorable carry-all.
Oversized Pockets: Sew large pockets onto a jacket or pair of pants to carry small items.

Truly alternative out-of-the-backpack ideas

Birdcage: It might not be the most practical solution, but it will certainly be the most memorable. Find one with a solid handle so you can tote it around (bird-free, please!).
Fishing or camping vest: Think of all the pockets!
Potato sack: Forget the jumping, these are super sturdy.
Blanket or sheet: If you don’t have many heavy items, gather it all up in an old sheet or lightweight blanket. Tie it up and sling it over the shoulder.
Witch’s hat or cauldron: Got extra Halloween props? Fill up a trick-or-treat’s worth of stuff!
Magazine holder: Light cloth or canvas ones usually have a handle.
Bread box: Wood or plastic, especially with a roll top.
Rolling chair or desk chair: Ready to roll right up to your desk!
Float or inner tube: Tie a rope around it, lay your stuff in the bottom and voila. Just be OK with the risk it might not make it to summer break.
Traffic cone: Turn it over and it’s an attention-grabbing container.
Toy car or Barbie van: Pack it up and trail it behind you.
Easter basket: Why use it only once a year? So cute.
Fishing net: Fish out last night’s homework, then catch today’s.
Baby carrier: Front- or back-carry, they’re usually ergonomically designed to carry.
Skateboard: Don’t ride it - put your books on it!
Pinata: Great for teenagers who can handle the load and pick out a cool theme.
Serving tray: Look like a fancy waiter serving your homework in style.
Beanbag chair cover: If it’s got a zipper, fill ‘er up!
Empty paint can: Make sure it’s dry.
Travel pillow: Remove the stuffing, replace with phone, pens, gadgets and go.
Shoe organizer: Cut out a head-size space, wear it like a smock and fill each pocket with stuff.
Remote control truck or car: Put your lunch and books in and tell it where to go.
Golf bag: Swing it over the shoulder, score a hole-in-one look.

FAQs:

Q: What is the purpose of anything but a backpack day?

A: Fun, creativity, laughter, school spirit, you name it! Many schools use it as a theme for spirit weeks or other events. The main purpose is to encourage creativity and critical thinking. It's a fun way to explore alternatives and think outside the box.

Q: When is Anything But a Backpack Day?

A: Anything But a Backpack Day is not an officially recognized holiday, but to be safe and in keeping with any school policies, it’s best to keep this activity part of a school-wide initiative many schools offer. If yours doesn’t, suggest it!

Q: What are the rules for Anything But a Backpack Day?

A: It's meant to be a fun, creative exercise - not a disruptive event. Always follow your school’s rules. But in general, keep it safe and sane. If there’s any risk of the contents spilling out or otherwise posing a risk of injury to your child or others, don’t do it!

In general, abide by all school and common sense safety guidelines. Never send your child with materials that are fragile, breakable, unwieldy, or have sharp edges. Safety always comes first - that’s part of the challenge, too!

Q: Who started anything but a backpack day?

A: According to internet legend, the trend started with a hashtag (#anythingbutabackpack) online in 2021. As kids posted videos of their cool backpack alternatives on TikTok, many schools seized the opportunity. It’s often used as an optional theme day during spirit weeks or homecoming.

Q: What if my child's alternative carrier breaks or is impractical?

A: As long as there’s no risk of injury or damage, minor mishaps are a chance for your child to learn about practicality and problem-solving.

Pro tip: Have them bring a regular backpack as a backup.

Q: Can my child participate in Anything But a Backpack Day if they have physical restrictions?

A: Absolutely! It should be inclusive, with a focus on creativity and making sure everyone can take part. It's all about finding a fun solution that suits their unique needs and abilities.

Q: What if other kids tease my child about their backpack alternative?

A: Hopefully, everyone embraces the spirit of the day. But if teasing happens, it’s a good opportunity to discuss individuality, creativity, and the importance of respecting others' choices.

Want more parenting wins? Visit the Greenlight Learning Center for fresh guides and tips on family, finances, and raising money-savvy kids and teens.

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.