Remember when school used to come back in session after Labor Day? Every year it seems like the powers at be move the start date earlier into summer. But no matter—with a new school year comes a good reason to update your everyday gear, and going back to the grind often requires we pick up a new trusty backpack.

You may not be enrolled this fall, but that's no reason to deny yourself an essential. Whether you’re transporting books or beer, here are ten backpacks that’ll get the job done in style.

Everlane Snap Backpack, $65

Parrot Canvas Woodland Camo Uwharrie Day Pack, $65

Poler Stuff Roll Top Bag, $70

Jansport x Benny Gold x Pendleton, $99

LayerxLayer Brimfield Bag, $189

Topo Designs Mountain Briefcase, $149

 
Cote&Ciel Isar Rucksack, $238

Makr Daypack, $245

Archival Clothing Rucksack, $260

Goruck GR1, $295

Check the journal often for more NoMa suggested fall essentials.

Warm weather is finally here and we're hoping to make some upgrades in our beach bag this year. Noticing that Need was stocking a Pendleton Oversized Jacquard Towel suitable for the beach, we knew we'd found a little something extra to help us approach 2013 summer in style. It's cotton velour, sheared on one side, looped on the other, and comes in a Native American-inspired pattern for which Pendleton is known. Digging a bit further, we found Hank's Clothing stocking the large Pendleton Beach Towels in 13 styles. We don't want to roll up to the shore in the exact same pattern now, do we?

Made in Oregon carries a range as well.