Anything But A Backpack Day is when students come to school with funny household items instead of backpacks to carry their school supplies. Students all over the United States have risen to the challenge and come up with the most unique and creative alternatives to backpacks.
Whether you want to push a wheelbarrow, use a cooler box, or carry your notebooks in a piñata, I’ve shared some of the most unique and interesting Anything But A Backpack day ideas with you.
- Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas
- Anything But A Backpack Day Spirit Week Ideas
- Best Anything But A Backpack Ideas For School
- Funny Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas
- Unique Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas
- Easy Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas
- Anything But A Backpack Day Tiktok
- Anything But A Backpack Day Instagram
Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas
Forget the traditional backpack! It’s time to get creative with ‘Anything But A Backpack’ Day. High schools across the country are embracing this novel idea with enthusiasm and excitement, swapping out backpacks for a variety of amusing and inventive alternatives.
From laundry baskets to toy trucks, from baby car seats to picnic baskets – it’s time to think outside the box when it comes to day-to-day class supplies.
So, if you’re looking for ideas to bring anything but a backpack to school, read on to find the coolest backpack alternatives.
1. Fan Backpack Idea
Using a fan as a backpack is one of the most creative ideas we’ve seen, not to mention hilarious at first glance.
Pro Tip: Take the blades off to give you more space for your belongings to fit.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 1 fan backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/fan-backpack.jpg.webp)
2. Mini Fridge Backpack
Just when you thought some small to midsize household appliances are hilarious enough. How about this outrageous idea?
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 2 Mini Fridge Backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Mini-Fridge-Backpack.jpg.webp)
3. Pizza Box Backpack
A pizza box is a surprisingly convenient way to store your supplies. Add some extra humor to the situation as it may appear that you casually brought pizza to school.
4. Shovel Backpack Idea
It might be a bit inconvenient for you to carry around, but the laughter and attention you’ll receive will be worth the inconvenience.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 4 shovel backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/shovel-backpack.jpg.webp)
5. Rolling Cart Backpack
Home goods such as rolling carts are often found in the pantry. They can undoubtedly slay in school hallways too!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 5 rolling cart backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/rolling-cart-backpack.jpg.webp)
6. Pitcher Backpack
If you are the type who brings very minimal items to school, this one is a perfect idea. It is sized perfectly to hold a pen, a notebook, and your mobile phone.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 6 pitcher backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/pitcher-backpack.jpg.webp)
7. Inflatable Pool Backpack
This sure looks like a fun and colorful idea to show up with in class.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 7 inflatable pool backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/inflatable-pool-backpack.jpg.webp)
8. Baby Walker Backpack
Hopefully, the baby won’t need it while you’re in school.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 8 Baby Walker](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Baby-Walker.jpg.webp)
9. Bird Cage Backpack Idea
We don’t see anything wrong with a bird cage carrying a laptop and other supplies for “Anything but a Backpack” day.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 9 birdcage backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/birdcage-backpack.jpg.webp)
10. Jack-O-Lantern Bucket
This time there will be no trick-or-treating while the Jack-O-Lantern carries your stuff to school.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 10 Jack O Lantern Bucket](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Jack-O-Lantern-Bucket.jpg.webp)
11. Guitar Case Backpack
Leave your guitar out of today’s agenda. Even if you’re not too musically inclined, you can still participate in Anything but a Backpack day.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 11 Guitar Case](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Guitar-Case.jpg.webp)
🤓 You might also enjoy throwing a white lie party. Check out these White Lie Party Ideas.
Anything But A Backpack Day Spirit Week Ideas
12. Umbrella Backpack Idea
A nice and easy carrier to use for school. Note: you can carry it open or closed.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 12 Umbrella backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Umbrella-backpack.jpg.webp)
13. Spare Tire Backpack
As it turns out, spare tires have another purpose. Possibly a bit heavy though?
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 13 spare tire backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/spare-tire-backpack.jpg.webp)
14. Shopping Cart Backpack
The fact that you can carry heavy items, including your classmates’ stuff, there’s no doubt that it is a popular item to bring on Anything but a Backpack day in school.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 14 shopping cart backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/shopping-cart-backpack.jpg.webp)
15. Nightstand Drawer
This is definitely an elegant way to keep your school stuff secure as you travel from class to class for an entire day.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 15 Nightstand Drawer](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Nightstand-Drawer.jpg.webp)
16. Toaster Oven Backpack
If a microwave is too big to carry around, this will suffice.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 16 toaster oven backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/toaster-oven-backpack.jpg.webp)
17. Kayak Backpack Idea
If you want to go big, this is an oversized item that is popular and will get massive attention.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 17 kayak backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/kayak-backpack.jpg.webp)
Best Anything But A Backpack Ideas For School
18. Toy Car Backpack
It doesn’t have to be pink. But bonus points will be earned if it’s a Barbie Cadillac.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 18 Toy Car](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Toy-Car.jpg.webp)
19. Fishing Net Backpack
Catching grades, not fish. The fishing net is a simple item that gives more room for your school stuff.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 19 fishing net](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/fishing-net.jpg.webp)
20. Picnic Basket
No regular backpack allowed? Why not bring a picnic basket?
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 20 Picnic Basket](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Picnic-Basket.jpg.webp)
21. Baby Stroller
Carriers with wheels are often the most convenient.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 21 baby stroller backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/baby-stroller-backpack.jpg.webp)
22. Airfryer Backpack Idea
It’s time for this trendy household item to shine, not in the kitchen but school.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 22 airfryer backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/airfryer-backpack.jpg.webp)
Funny Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas
23. Mop Bucket Backpack Idea
Who would have thought books and notes would look good in a mop bucket?
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 23 mop bucket backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mop-bucket-backpack.jpg.webp)
24. Garbage Bin Backpack
Here to collect knowledge, not garbage!
25. Wheelbarrow Backpack
Who wouldn’t burst into laughter when bumping into a classmate rushing through the school hallways carrying this huge item?
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 25 Wheelbarrow](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Wheelbarrow.jpg.webp)
26. Toy Shopping Cart
The easiest way to get one is to take one from your younger sister, who loves to play grocery shopping.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 26 Toy Shopping Cart](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Toy-Shopping-Cart.jpg.webp)
27. Toilet Backpack Idea
What could be funnier than seeing something you’re not supposed to see next to a classmate?
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 27 toilet](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/toilet.jpg.webp)
28. Baby Car Seat Backpack
Secures and carries books and notes on their way to and from school!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 28 Baby Car Seat](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Baby-Car-Seat.jpg.webp)
29. Kangaroo Onesie Backpack
You can look cute all day in an adult onesie with a pouch that serves a practical purpose.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 29 Adult Onesie](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Adult-Onesie.jpg.webp)
30. Microwave Backpack
This has already gained so much popularity and has become an instant favorite. It’s hard not to laugh when you see someone carrying a microwave to school. Legends are like… “Mom, I need to borrow the microwave.”
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 30 microwave](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/microwave.jpg.webp)
Unique Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas
31. Barrel Backpack
Hard to obtain and obviously challenging to carry around. But definitely unique!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 31 barrel](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/barrel.jpg.webp)
32. Boat Backpack Idea
If you think a kayak is oversized, then you haven’t seen this. This automatically falls in the unique category because we’re sure only a few will dare.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 32 boat backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/boat-backpack.jpg.webp)
33. Rice Bag Backpack Idea
You probably have to eat a lot of rice to have such an oversized bag. Here’s another way to carry tons of school supplies, and pretty unique as not everyone will have this at home.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 33 ricebag](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ricebag.jpg.webp)
34. Beyblade Stadium Backpack Idea
Only a Beyblade fan knows!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 34 beyblade stadium](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/beyblade-stadium.jpg.webp)
35. Dollhouse Backpack Idea
It was time for your dolls to evacuate – their dollhouse is off to school.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 35 Dollhouse](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dollhouse.jpg.webp)
36. Lawnmower Backpack
As long as it has wheels and room to carry a few things, it doesn’t matter what it is. But this surely deserves an award.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 36 Lawnmower](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawnmower-.jpg.webp)
Easy Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas
37. Cereal Box Backpack
This is one of the classics. Save that empty box of cereal from going to the trash. Instead, take it for a ride to carry your school belongings.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 37 Cereal](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cereal-Box.jpg.webp)
38. Watering Can Backpack
Give it an artistic flair by adding a bit of design to it. And obviously, empty before use!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 38 Watering Can](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Watering-Can.jpg.webp)
39. Doughnut Box Backpack
Admittedly that’s a big donut box. Your lappy can sit comfortably in this with a bit more space on both sides.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 39 donut](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/donut-box.jpg.webp)
40. Hobo Knapsack Stick Bag
Every kid has made a bindle bag on a stick or possibly imagined running away with one filled with snacks. Super easy but no less creative to wow the crowd!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 40 hobo backpack](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hobo-backpack.jpg.webp)
Anything But A Backpack Day Tiktok
41. Helmet Backpack Idea
Something with very minimal space. A good choice for people with fewer belongings to carry around.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 41 helmet](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/helmet.jpg.webp)
42. Hanger Backpack
It doesn’t get any simpler than this, does it? It’s surprising how much a hanger can hold, actually!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 42 hanger](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hanger.jpg.webp)
43. Cooler Backpack Idea
Apparently, there is a better way to use a cooler. Use it as an alternative backpack for a day!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 43 cooler](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/cooler.jpg.webp)
44. Kitchen Sink Backpack
Easy to carry, funny to look at. It’s a sure winner!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 44 kitchensink](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/kitchensink.jpg.webp)
45. Popcorn Machine Backpack
This kid understood the assignment. This anything but a backpack idea is Hot & Fresh!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 45 Popcorn Machine](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Popcorn-Machine.jpg.webp)
46. Chair Backpack Idea
Probably not the easiest to carry your school stuff but at least you can sit comfortably once you’ve gotten tired of carrying it around.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 46 chair](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/chair.jpg.webp)
47. Blanket Backpack
Not the neatest way to carry your stuff. You might be surprised with a chaotic mess later. But it still works.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 47 blanket](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/blanket.jpg.webp)
Anything But A Backpack Day Instagram
48. Traffic Cone Backpack
We’ve seen students use this to hold drinks at ‘Anything But A Cup’ themed parties, however, it evidently has many practical uses.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 48 Traffic Cone](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Traffic-Cone.jpg.webp)
49. Piñata Backpack
A taco piñata for the taco-lover is not a bad idea.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 49 taco pinata](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/taco-pinata.jpg.webp)
50. Wooden Crate Backpack
Just the right size will keep your things in place.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 50 wooden crate](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/wooden-crate.jpg.webp)
51. Pet Carrier Backpack
We will never look at a pet carrier the same way again.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 51 Pet Carrier](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Pet-Carrier.jpg.webp)
52. Treasure Chest Backpack
What’s good enough for pirate treasure is good enough for school supplies. Flaunt this vintage beauty at school and feel like a pirate!
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 52 treasure chest](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/treasure-chest.jpg.webp)
53. Tool Box Backpack Idea
Perfect for the tools of any trade – even for carrying the tools for school.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 53](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/toolbox.jpg.webp)
Anything But A Backpack Day Facebook
54. Folding Crib Backpack
It’s so spacious you can squish yourself in while in class.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 54 Folding Crib 1](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Folding-Crib-1.jpg.webp)
55. Pillow Case Backpack
It wouldn’t be easy to carry around if you have heavy items like books and a laptop, but it is easy to get and comfortable to carry.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 55 pillow case](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/pillow-case.jpg.webp)
56. Paper Shredder Backpack
Just be very careful not to accidentally shred your school notes.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 56 paper shredder](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/paper-shredder.jpg.webp)
57. Vacuum Cleaner Backpack
This idea goes with the hope that you unload and clean it before making it a backpack alternative.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 57 vacuum cleaner](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/vacuum-cleaner.jpg.webp)
58. Pot Backpack Idea
It doesn’t matter how many school belongings you must carry around. Take your reliable cookware for a trip to school. It will do the job for you.
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 58 pot](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/pot.jpg.webp)
59. Hammock and Toy Grill
The fact that they are in the same frame shouldn’t be a coincidence. The outdoorsy vibes are complete with a hammock and a grill (only the toy version though).
![66 Funny & Cool Anything But A Backpack Day Ideas 59 Hammock x Toy Grill](https://hugateen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Hammock-x-Toy-Grill.jpg.webp)
Anything But A Backpack Day Reddit
We checked what people had answered when students asked for recommendations for their ‘Anything but a Backpack’ day at school. Here are some of the best and most bizarre answers.
60. Fishbowl Backpack
The idea seems easy. But something breakable like glass might be challenging to carry around. Always check restrictions. – Michi-Fan-01
61. Suitcase or Briefcase
We’ve seen kids carry suitcases. And we’re 100% sure they borrowed it from their Dads. Some even come to school in suits to match the briefcase making it more hilarious. – Intelligent_Point311
62. Beer Case Backpack
Why carry simple baskets and crates when you can bring a beer case? Make sure not to sneak beers in school though. – teddosaurus
63. Skateboards
Skater boys and girls unite! This thing can even carry you around and not just your school things. – u/coolguy84938483
64. Washing Machine
If others can bring a fridge. Then why not try your luck on a washing machine? – apaczkowski
65. Your Little Brother
My personal favorite. Only if your parents would allow you to take your younger sibling with you to boss around all day and carry our things. – Educational_Heart132
66. Coffin
This is definitely the most bizarre item suggested that students should bring. We also wonder if anyone out there would actually have a coffin handy. – R0LL1NGTHUNDR
❤️ You might also like to read What Is A Kickback Party?
Related Questions To Anything But A Backpack
What is anything but a backpack day?
What is ‘Anything But A Backpack Day’? It’s a fun and creative way to switch up the traditional school routine. It’s an opportunity for kids to get creative with their day-to-day class supplies and swap out backpacks for a variety of amusing and inventive alternatives.
Students bring their supplies to school in funny household items. Alternatives to a backpack day range from laundry baskets to toy trucks, from baby car seats to picnic baskets – it’s time to think outside the box!
Not only does it encourage students to have fun with their school days, but it also provides plenty of comedic relief between classes.
The only absolute rule is that it can’t be too dangerous, nor can it be a backpack. In October 2021, the trending hashtag #anythingbutabackpack started to become popular on Tiktok.
What day is anything but a backpack day?
Anything But A Backpack Day has not been associated with a specific date.
However, since it has been a trend on Tiktok, Instagram, and other social media platforms, many schools have taken up the activity and included it in their school spirit week.
Who started anything but a backpack day?
It all started in the Jefferson School District 251 in Idaho when a shooting incident happened in May 2021 that led the school board to be on high alert. In a statement, the local Board of Education banned backpacks in schools. On the following day, students brought in items to protest and make fun of the new rule.
According to Jefferson School District 251 Superintendent Chad Martin, it was “good to see the students turning it into a positive thing.” The hashtag #anythingbutabackpack was adopted on Tik Tok shortly after that first day. Many schools have now adopted this trend during spirit week as a way to reignite school spirit.
Can you decorate a backpack with patches?
Yes, decorating a backpack with patches is an awesome idea! Patches can be created in diverse shapes and designs (including your name) to add a unique touch to your backpack. Creating your own unique, self-designed school bag with a custom patch is sure to get some attention. You can also choose an awesome backpack on Backpacks.co and add your own custom designs directly onto the backpack itself.