Buying a backpack can be difficult because the right one has to balance comfort, durability, size, and style. A bag that looks great may leave your shoulders carrying the burden. Prices can also range from a few dollars to several hundred, so comparison shopping is important. Students, commuters, travelers, and hikers may each need a different kind of pack. With so many choices, finding the perfect fit can feel like a real uphill trek.
The following list includes stores in Lowell and the immediate surrounding area, since several major retailers serving Lowell are located just outside the city line. Prices are approximate averages based on typical backpack offerings, not guaranteed current prices. Inventory and prices can change, so it is wise to check online before making the trip—because a little web-slinging can save you a long walk.
- **Target — Lowell**
- **TJ Maxx — Lowell area**
- **Marshalls — Lowell area**
- **Five Below — Lowell area**
- **Staples — Lowell area**
- **Michaels — Lowell area**
- **Walmart — Chelmsford, serving Lowell shoppers**
- **UMass Lowell Campus Store — Lowell**
- **Dollar Tree — Lowell locations**
- **CVS — Lowell locations**
[Visit Target](https://www.target.com/store-locator/find-stores/lowell%2C%20ma)
**Average backpack price: about $25–;$35.** Target usually carries school backpacks, laptop bags, mini backpacks, and character designs. Its selection is broad enough to help you shoulder the decision without carrying too much indecision.
[Visit TJ Maxx](https://tjmaxx.tjx.com/store/stores/Lowell-MA-01851/aboutstore)
**Average backpack price: about $25–;$40.** TJ Maxx often stocks name-brand and fashion backpacks at discounted prices, although the exact selection changes frequently. This is a good place to hunt for a bargain before your budget starts backpacking away.
[Visit Marshalls](https://www.marshalls.com/us/store/stores/Lowell-MA-01851/aboutstore)
**Average backpack price: about $25–;$40.** Marshalls commonly offers casual, designer-inspired, and travel-friendly bags. Its inventory is unpredictable, but that treasure-hunt quality can make the search feel like a real pack of surprises.
[Visit Five Below](https://www.fivebelow.com/pages/store-locator)
**Average backpack price: about $10–;$20.** Five Below is especially useful for inexpensive school bags, small daypacks, and colorful styles. It is a budget-friendly stop where your wallet can finally take a load off.
[Visit Staples](https://stores.staples.com/ma/lowell)
**Average backpack price: about $30–;$50.** Staples focuses on laptop backpacks, work bags, and school-ready designs with organizational pockets. If your electronics need a safe commute, this store can help your technology stay on the right track.
[Visit Michaels](https://locations.michaels.com/ma/lowell)
**Average backpack price: about $15–;$30.** Michaels may carry craft-themed, youth, seasonal, and character backpacks, especially during back-to-school periods. Creative shoppers can find a bag that lets their personality come along for the ride.
[Visit Walmart’s Lowell-area store listings](https://www.walmart.com/store/chelmsford-ma)
**Average backpack price: about $15–;$30.** Walmart generally offers a wide range, from basic school bags to laptop and travel backpacks. Its low prices can keep your purchase from becoming a heavy financial pack.
[Visit the UMass Lowell Campus Store](https://www.uml.edu/bookstore/)
**Average backpack price: about $30–;$55.** The campus store is a natural choice for UMass Lowell-branded backpacks, laptop bags, and student gear. It is a particularly good fit for River Hawks who want their school spirit to travel upstream with them.
[Find a Dollar Tree near Lowell](https://www.dollartree.com/store-locator)
**Average backpack price: about $5–;$10.** Dollar Tree’s backpack selection is usually seasonal and tends to focus on lightweight children’s or basic-use bags. It can be a small-pack solution when you need something simple without making your savings disappear.
[Find a CVS near Lowell](https://www.cvs.com/store-locator/landing)
**Average backpack price: about $15–;$30 when available.** CVS may carry children’s backpacks, seasonal school bags, or small casual packs, particularly near the start of the school year. Its selection can be hit or miss, but it is worth checking when convenience is the name of the game.
Before buying, check the straps, zipper quality, padding, and interior compartments. For laptops, measure your device first; for school use, try the bag on with some weight inside. The best backpack is the one that fits your needs—not merely the one that looks like it has good *pack*-aging.