Ellis Backpack vs. Fletcher Backpack: Which Carryall Suits Your Daily Routine?

Quick answer

Choose the Ellis Backpack 20L if your child is 6-8 and needs to carry a laptop or tablet, a binder, and books for school. Choose the Fletcher Kids' Backpack (Medium or Large) for younger kids (ages 3-7) who need a lighter, more compact pack with a chest strap and name tag. The Ellis offers more capacity and a luggage strap, while the Fletcher focuses on adjustability and organization for smaller frames.

When it's time to pick a new backpack for your child, the options can feel overwhelming. Two popular choices from our collection are the Ellis Backpack 20L and the Fletcher Kids' Backpack. Both are designed with school in mind, but they cater to different ages and needs. In this comparison, we'll break down the key differences to help you decide which carryall fits your daily routine best.

We'll look at size, intended age range, storage features, and durability. By the end, you'll know exactly which backpack to choose for your young student.

Size and Age Range: Matching the Pack to Your Child

The most significant difference between the Ellis Backpack 20L and the Fletcher Kids' Backpack is the age range they're designed for. The Ellis Backpack 20L is built for kids ages 6 to 8, offering a 20-liter capacity that can hold a laptop, a 2-inch three-ring binder, spiral notebooks, folders, books, and even a sweatshirt. This makes it a great choice for older elementary students who need to carry more supplies.

The Fletcher Kids' Backpack comes in two sizes: Medium for ages 3-5 and Large for ages 4-7. These packs are smaller and more compact, designed to fit younger children comfortably. They feature a padded tablet sleeve, a large zip-closure front pocket, and a zip-closure stash pocket—enough room for a tablet, snacks, and a few small toys, but not for heavy textbooks.

• Ellis 20L: 20-liter capacity, fits laptop, binder, and more; ideal for ages 6-8.
• Fletcher Medium: for ages 3-5; Fletcher Large: for ages 4-7; both have a tablet sleeve.

Storage and Organization: What Fits Inside?

Storage is a key factor when comparing backpacks. The Ellis Backpack 20L features a padded laptop sleeve, small zip-closure pockets, and two expandable bottle sleeves on the sides. It also has a luggage strap, which is handy for travel. The main compartment is spacious enough to fit a binder and notebooks, making it suitable for a full school day.

The Fletcher Kids' Backpack, on the other hand, prioritizes organization for younger kids. It includes a padded tablet sleeve, a large zip-closure front pocket, a zip-closure stash pocket, and two expandable bottle sleeves. The chest strap and name tag are thoughtful additions for preschoolers and kindergarteners. However, it lacks a dedicated laptop sleeve and won't fit a 2-inch binder, so it's not ideal for older students with heavy loads.

• Ellis: padded laptop sleeve, luggage strap, small zip pockets.
• Fletcher: tablet sleeve, front pocket, stash pocket, name tag, chest strap.

Comfort and Durability: Built to Last

Both backpacks are designed with comfort in mind, but they target different body sizes. The Ellis Backpack 20L features adjustable straps and a padded back, ensuring a comfortable fit for growing kids. The Fletcher Kids' Backpack is built with padded, adjustable shoulder straps with reinforced stitching and a buckle, plus a chest strap to distribute weight evenly. The reinforced stitching adds durability, so the pack can withstand daily wear and tear.

When it comes to materials, both are made from durable fabrics, but the Ellis offers a more streamlined design with a luggage strap for travel. The Fletcher's smaller size and adjustable straps make it easier for younger children to carry without strain.

• Ellis: adjustable straps, padded back, luggage strap.
• Fletcher: padded adjustable straps, chest strap, reinforced stitching.

Trade-offs to Consider

• Age Fit: Ellis is for ages 6-8, Fletcher for ages 3-7 (Medium for 3-5, Large for 4-7). Choose based on your child's age and size.
• Capacity: Ellis has 20L capacity and fits a laptop and binder; Fletcher is smaller with a tablet sleeve only. If your child needs to carry a laptop, Ellis is the better fit.
• Travel Features: Ellis has a luggage strap for easy attachment to rolling bags; Fletcher does not. If you travel frequently, Ellis offers added convenience.

Product Facts at a Glance

• Ellis Backpack 20L: The 20L Ellis Backpack is designed for ages 6 to 8. Features a padded laptop sleeve, a luggage strap, small zip-closure pockets, easily adjustable straps, and two expandable bottle sleeves on the sides. This makes it a versatile choice for school and travel, capable of holding a laptop and binder for older kids.
• Fletcher Kids' Backpack - Large: The Fletcher is a school backpack great for children ages 4-7. Features a padded tablet sleeve, a large zip-closure front pocket, a zip-closure stash pocket, easily adjustable straps, chest strap, name tag, and two expandable bottle sleeves on the sides. The chest strap and name tag are great for younger kids, and the tablet sleeve protects devices without the bulk of a laptop sleeve.

Which Backpack Fits Your Routine?

Best for

• Older elementary students (ages 6-8) who need to carry a laptop, binder, and books to school.
• Families who travel and want a backpack with a luggage strap for easy transport.

Not for

• Younger children (ages 3-5) who need a smaller, lighter pack with a chest strap and name tag.
• Those who only need to carry a tablet and small items—the Fletcher is more compact and affordable.

Both the Ellis Backpack 20L and the Fletcher Kids' Backpack are excellent choices, but they serve different needs. For older kids with heavier loads, the Ellis offers the space and laptop protection they need. For younger children, the Fletcher provides a comfortable, secure fit with just the right amount of storage. Consider your child's age, school requirements, and travel habits to make the best choice. If you're leaning toward the Ellis, check out the Ellis Backpack 20L for a reliable everyday carryall.