109 Creative Anything But a Backpack Ideas​ for 2025

Anything But a Backpack ideas are popular spirit week ideas at many schools. They encourage kids to think outside the box and practice resourcefulness by ditching their backpack for an alternative storage method. 

This is also a great way to teach kids that small, seemingly insignificant choices like the material of their backpack can have big environmental impacts. 

If you’ve never heard of this fun tradition, you might be wondering, What is the best thing to bring for Anything But a Backpack Day? There are countless Anything But a Backpack ideas to choose from, whether you’re looking for something easy, funny or creative. 

This list of Anything But a Backpack Day Ideas and practical Anything But a Backpack Day rules is full of too-cool-for-school options that are guaranteed to turn heads in the hallway.

Jump to Section

• Best Anything But a Backpack ideas​
• Easy Anything But a Backpack Day Ideas
• Funny Anything But a Backpack ideas
• Anything But a Backpack ideas FAQs

Best Anything But a Backpack ideas​

1. Guitar Case

If you have a guitar case (or any musical instrument case), fill it with school supplies for an easy idea.

2. Board Game Box

Don’t play around with Anything But a Backpack day ideas. Take all the game pieces out of a board game box and fill it with school supplies for a fun storage option.

3. Kid-Sized Shopping Cart

Toy shopping carts are perfect makeshift backpacks because they’re on wheels, so kids can push them from class to class and pretend they’re on a grocery run.

4. Picnic Basket

Picnic baskets are perfect for storing supplies and you can even pack a few snacks for your kiddo.

5. Suitcase

A suitcase is basically a rolling backpack, so this idea feels a bit like cheating while still technically following the rules.

6. Faux Book

Have any faux books lying around? Fill them up with school supplies for a fun surprise.

7. Baby Sling

If your kid watched you carry around their younger sibling in a baby sling, they’ll get a kick out of this.

8. Toy Chest

Filling a toy chest with school supplies is one of the easiest makeshift backpacks. You could even leave a few of your kids’ toys inside to put a smile on their face at school.

9. Beach Pail

Making sandcastles is much more fun than going to school, but carrying supplies in a beach pail is the next best thing.

10. DIY Tote Bag

Your kid can design a tote bag and fill it with their supplies. Yay for creativity!

11. Cube Storage Container

You probably already have a cube storage container at home, so empty out one of the baskets and fill it with school supplies for a quick and easy idea.

12. Soda Bottle

Cut a two-liter soda bottle in half and use it for Anything But a Backpack Day ideas for school. 

13. Cooler

Not only can a cooler store your kid’s lunch, but it doubles as Anything But a Backpack ideas.

14. Hiking Backpack

Hiking backpacks still count as Anything But a Backpack ideas because they’re different from school backpacks. If you need something easy, look no further.

15. Soccer Ball

If you cut open a soccer ball, you can use the inside for Anything But a Backpack ideas. This is a great option for sporty kids.

16. Life Vest

All the pockets in life vests make handy storage for school supplies.

17. Briefcase

Kids will love feeling like a business executive with this idea.

18. Cereal Box

An empty cereal box was practically made for sliding a binder or a few notebooks into.

19. Pitcher

A tall pitcher is a quirky option for compact supplies like writing utensils.

20. Umbrella

You can tie school supplies to the top of an umbrella for one of the most creative Anything But a Backpack ideas ever.

21. Jewelry Box

Jewelry boxes are beautiful, and they have plenty of room for school supplies.

22. Paint Can

An empty paint can (make sure it’s really empty!) is a great place to store school supplies.

23. Baseball Glove

Hit a home run with unique Anything But a Backpack ideas like a baseball glove.

24. Pair of Jeans

Jeans aren’t just for back to school outfits. If you sew up the pant legs at the bottom, there’s lots of room for school supplies.

25. Toolbox

Take the tools out of your toolbox and fill it with school supplies instead.

26. Coffee Bag

When your next bag of coffee is gone, save it for small supplies like pencils or a calculator.

27. Fish Tank

Fish tanks come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so it’s easy to find one for Anything But a Backpack ideas.

28. Crockpot

A crockpot is easily one of the most hilarious Anything But a Backpack Day ideas. Instead of a hot meal, your kiddo can cook up answers to their homework.

29. Dollhouse 

Who knew a dollhouse could double as a backpack? Each room can store different types of school supplies.

30. Plastic Drawers

Plastic drawers are one of the most obvious Anything But a Backpack ideas. Bonus points if they’re on wheels for ease.

31. Lamp Shade

The best Anything But a Backpack ideas repurpose items you already have around the house, like a lampshade. 

32. Egg Carton 

How cute is an egg carton for Anything But a Backpack Day ideas? It can’t hold big supplies like binders or notebooks, but it’s great for small things like erasers.

33. Wheelbarrow

Kids can pretend they’re farmers by pushing their books around in a wheelbarrow.

34. Car Seat

Car seats can hold a good amount of weight, so this is a good option for older kids with lots of books.

35. Skateboard

Skateboards are among the most fun Anything But a Backpack ideas. Just pile everything onto it and get rolling. 

36. Christmas Stocking

Add some year-round festive cheer to Anything But a Backpack ideas with a holiday stocking.

Easy Anything But a Backpack Day Ideas

37. Laundry Basket

Using a laundry basket for Anything But a Backpack ideas is a win-win situation. Your kid gets to participate in the tradition, and you’re forced to do the laundry that’s been piling up.

38. Reusable Shopping Bag

According to National Geographic, opting for reusable bags is one of the best ways for consumers to help the planet. Use this backpack idea to educate your kiddo on environmental impact.

39. Pillowcase

Stuffing school supplies into a pillowcase only takes a few minutes, so it’s perfect if you need last-minute Anything But a Backpack ideas.

40. Cardboard Box

Cardboard boxes are great Anything But a Backpack ideas because your kid can doodle on the outside all day long (after their classwork is done, of course).

41. Shoe Box

Shoe boxes can be repurposed in all sorts of ways, from flowerpots to Anything But a Backpack ideas.

42. Paper Bag

Paper bags are good for the environment and make for fantastic Anything But a Backpack ideas.

43. Lunch Kit 

Lunch kits aren’t only for food! Imagine the shock on everyone’s face when your kid pulls out a calculator or notepad instead of a sandwich.

44. Hat Box

Hat boxes are easy Anything But a Backpack ideas, and they can also be quite stylish.

45. Beach Towel

Wrap your kid’s supplies up in a beach towel so they can pretend it’s summer while they sit in class.

46. Bandanas

Tie a bandana around school supplies for a DIY backpack idea that’s easy to carry around all day.

47. Watering Can

Knowledge is like a tree that needs watering, and creative Anything But a Backpack ideas help do just that.

48. Large Bowl

Grab one of your largest bowls, like a mixing bowl or even a spaghetti strainer, and fill it with your kid’s school supplies.

49. Bread Box

Bread boxes are great for storing school supplies because you can shut the door and keep everything secured inside.

50. Purse

A purse or satchel is a no-brainer when it comes to Anything But a Backpack ideas. They allow for style and self-expression, too.

51. Gift Bag

Repurpose a birthday or holiday gift bag for Anything But a Backpack ideas.

52. Bed Sheet

Wrap a bedsheet around school supplies for an easy DIY backpack that you can throw together in minutes.

53. Tissue Box

If you have smaller kids who don’t need a ton of supplies, tissue boxes work great as Anything But a Backpack ideas.

54. Garbage Bag

A garbage bag may not be a creative backpack stand-in, but it is functional, which is the most important thing. 

55. Food Storage Container

Tupperware containers are great Anything But a Backpack ideas. Just make sure to use plastic ones in case they’re dropped. 

56. Ziploc Bag

Ziploc bags come in several different sizes, so kids can store everything from binders and notebooks to pens and pencils.

57. Accordion File Folder

An accordion file folder is perfect for keeping track of homework and other loose papers.

58. Carry-On Luggage

Carry-on bags are great Anything But a Backpack ideas because you can just stuff everything inside and get on with it.

59. T-Shirt

If you’re looking for a super-easy Anything But a Backpack Day idea, just tie up a T-shirt to make a DIY bag.

60. Motorcycle Helmet

A motorcycle helmet is one of those Anything But a Backpack ideas that’s too cool for school.

61. Bicycle Basket

Bicycle baskets are not only adorable and nostalgic but they’re also perfect for storing school supplies.

62. Cookie Tin

Kids definitely prefer cookies over homework, but using cookie tins as Anything But a Backpack ideas brings some enjoyment even if there are no cookies inside. 

63. Tennis Racket Cover

Tennis racket covers make great Anything But a Backpack ideas because they zip up and hold everything in place.

64. Apron

Wearable Anything But a Backpack ideas are practical and convenient. Your kid can channel their inner baker and fill the pockets of an apron with school supplies.

65. Laundry Hamper

Get all the dirty clothes out of your kid’s laundry hamper (and maybe throw in a dryer sheet just to be safe) and fill it with their school supplies.

66. Recycling Bin 

A recycling bin is one of the best Anything But a Backpack ideas because it’s a breeze to lug around and gets kids thinking about the environment.

67. Duffle Bag

If you don’t have time to think of elaborate Anything But a Backpack ideas, just use a duffle bag. Since it’s technically not a backpack, it still counts.

68. Burlap Sacks

Burlap sacks are great last-minute Anything But a Backpack ideas and they’re eco-friendly as a bonus.

69. Gym Bag

A gym bag is similar to a backpack while still being different enough not to count as cheating.

70. Milk Crates

Old milk crates are simple Anything But a Backpack ideas that get the job done.

71. Stuffed Animals

Stuffed animals with zippered compartments make great Anything But a Backpack ideas. Plus, smaller kids will find comfort in carrying around their favorite stuffed animal all day. 

72. Oversized Mug

If you need easy Anything But a Backpack Day ideas, just grab your largest coffee mug off the shelf. It’s the perfect place to store smaller supplies like writing utensils. 

Funny Anything But a Backpack ideas

73. Top Hat

Kids will love pulling their school supplies out of a top hat like a magician.

74. Remote Control Car

A remote control car is perhaps the most creative substitute for a backpack. This hands-free option can zip through the crowded hallways with ease. 

75. Mailbox

If you happen to have an old mailbox lying around, this is one of the most creative Anything But a Backpack ideas. 

76. Trashcan

The trash is where most kids think their homework belongs, so using trash cans as Anything But a Backpack ideas is actually genius. 

77. Stroller

Similar to a suitcase, pushing school supplies around in a stroller is much better for your spine than a traditional backpack. Your kid may get some funny looks with this idea, though! 

78. Soup Pot

Get the largest pot you have and fill it with your kid’s schoolbooks for a funny backpack idea that’s portable and convenient.

79. Dog Crate

A dog crate or kennel is a hilarious place to store school supplies. 

80. Tool Belt

Kids will get a kick out of storing their supplies in the various sections of a tool belt. 

81. Chip Bag

Once you’re finished with a large chip bag, use it for Anything But a Backpack ideas. This is a low-effort idea that still gets points in the creativity department. 

82. Fanny Pack

Fanny packs make for a trendy Anything But a Backpack idea that is ideal for storing smaller supplies like pencils. 

83. Riding Boot

Knee-high riding boots aren’t just stylish but they’re also great Anything But a Backpack ideas. 

84. Traffic Cone

If you flip a traffic cone upside down, it makes the perfect storage solution for school supplies. 

85. Bird Cage

Your kid’s popularity will soar to new heights with this fun backpack idea.

86. Wig

Anything But a Backpack ideas don’t get much more creative than a wig. Choose a crazy color to make it even more fun.

87. Kayak

If you’re an outdoorsy family, let your kid bring their supplies to school in a kayak. It’s an arm workout to carry around but they’ll definitely win brownie points when it comes to funny Anything But a Backpack ideas.

88. Empty Ice Cream Container

After you polish off that tub of ice cream, save it for Anything But a Backpack ideas. Your kid’s classmates might be disappointed when they open it up to find school supplies instead of a delicious treat.

89. Flower Pot

Clean out one of your flowerpots and let your kid use it for Anything But a Backpack ideas that allow creativity to blossom.

90. Oversized Pockets

Sew giant pockets onto a pair of jeans to fill with school supplies. This is a unique (and a bit silly) idea that nobody else is likely to think of.

91. Plant Hangers

Repurpose hanging baskets for plants into Anything But a Backpack ideas.

92. Cake Stand

Anything But a Backpack day ideas don’t get much sweeter than this. If you have a cake stand lying around (preferably a plastic one), it’s perfect for storing books. 

93. Piggy Bank

Piggy Banks aren’t as common as they used to be, but if your kid happens to have one, they can fill it with small supplies like erasers and paper clips for Anything But a Backpack Day.

94. Halloween Candy Bucket

No matter what time of year it is, Halloween candy buckets are always in style when it comes to Anything But a Backpack Day Ideas.

95. Mini Fridge

Have an old mini fridge? Fill it with school supplies and school lunch ideas for a funny Anything But a Backpack Day idea.  

96. Crazy Socks

Anything But a Backpack day ideas for school should be, above all else, fun. Get some crazy, knee-high socks and fill them with supplies for guaranteed laughs. 

97. Coconut

Channel summer vibes by putting school supplies in a hollowed-out coconut.

98. Treasure Chest

X marks the spot for creative Anything But a Backpack ideas. Get a pirate’s treasure chest online or from a party store and fill it with books and supplies.

99. Toy Car

This is one of the best Anything But a Backpack ideas if your kid has a younger sibling with a toy car. They can just load all their books and supplies into it and call it a day.

100. Microwave

Your child will definitely turn heads in the hallway if they bring their supplies to school in an old microwave. Just imagine their friends’ reactions when they pop it open during class. 

101. Piñata

A piñata really puts the “anything” in Anything But a Backpack ideas. It’s a safe bet that your kid will be the only one at school who thought of this! 

102. Playpen

A younger sibling’s playpen can double as Anything But a Backpack ideas. There’s plenty of room to store everything your kid needs for school.

103. Dog Food Bag

Once you finish up a bag of dog food, repurpose it for Anything But a Backpack ideas. 

104. Fishing Net 

If you have fishing nets at home, they make great Anything But a Backpack ideas. Pool nets also work just as well. 

105. Sleeping Bag

Your kid can joke about how school makes them want to fall asleep with this unique idea. 

106. Shower Caddy

Shower caddies are great for school supplies because they have several compartments for storing different things.

107. Kiddie Pool

Kids love Anything But a Backpack ideas that channel their favorite season: summer (of course). Blow up a kiddie pool for them to store all their essentials. 

108. Easter Basket

Pull out your kid’s Easter basket and let them fill it with school supplies. They could even store some smaller things inside plastic Easter eggs.

109. Pizza Box

If you need funny Anything But a Backpack ideas, you can’t go wrong with a pizza box. Save one from your next delivery so your kid can serve up laughs.

Anything But a Backpack ideas FAQs

What Does Anything But a Backpack Day Mean?

Anything But a Backpack day is a fun tradition where kids leave their backpacks at home and bring their supplies to school in an alternative container. 

It’s often part of spirit week towards the beginning of the school year but can also serve as an opportunity to raise awareness about the environmental impact of disposable backpacks.

What Is the Rule for Anything But a Backpack Day?

Every school sets its own Anything But a Backpack Day rules, so there’s no set list of parameters to follow. The main rule is, of course, no backpacks, and some other general guidelines include avoiding anything that could be used as a weapon and ensuring items are appropriate for a school environment and won’t cause disruptions in class.

The sky is the limit when it comes to Anything But a Backpack Daya ideas. They can be as simple or as imaginative as you want — the most important part is the experience of participating in a fun tradition that kids will look back on with fondness for years to come.

For even more fun and creative ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!