Anything But a Backpack Day is the perfect opportunity to showcase your sense of humor. With so many fun and unexpected options available, you can find the perfect alternative for a normal backpack.
In this article, CustomAny will provide a list with 90+ unique and brilliant ideas to help you stand out. Let’s get started to find out!
What Is Anything But a Backpack Day?
You wonder when is Anything But a Backpack Day? Don’t know Anything But a Backpack Day rules? Keep reading to find out the explanation!
What’s Anything But a Backpack Day All About?
Anything But a Backpack Day is a creative school spirit day when students leave their backpacks at home and bring their school supplies in just about anything else, from laundry baskets to pet carriers.
Besides being applicable to school, this activity can be used at work as well.
How Does Anything But a Backpack Day Work?
On this day, everyone chooses a unique item to carry their books, notebooks, and pencils. The only rule is no backpacks allowed!
Why Do We Celebrate It?
Anything But a Backpack Day is celebrated to promote environmental awareness and minimize waste generated by single-use backpacks. On this day, people can freely showcase their unique personalities and imagination.
90+ Brilliant Ideas for Anything But a Backpack Day
You don’t know what to bring for Anything But a Backpack Day? If you, consider our following Anything But a Backpack Day ideas to get more inspiration.
Everyday Household Items
1.Laundry basket
Laundry baskets provide plenty of storage space for school items. You can place your items inside and carry the basket by the handles or attach a strap to make it easier to sling over your shoulder.
2. Empty cereal box
Take out the food inside cereal boxes and now you have interesting things to bring for Anything But a Backpack Day.
3. Cooler or ice chest
These portable containers are good ideas for Anything But a Backpack Day. Students can easily handle them using their handle and wheels (if they have) at school.
4. Trash can
Use a clean trash as an unconventional container to carry your belongings.
You can make the trash speak for yourself with glossy, waterproof custom transfer stickers. There are many customized options, from your name, a cute pattern to motivational stickers like “Recycle love”.
You could even create a theme, such as outer space or tropical vibes, with sticker sheets.
5. Large mixing bowl
When you have mixing bowls in your home, why don’t you use them as funny Anything But a Backpack Day ideas? However, make sure it’s made out of something other than glass, such as wood or plastic.
6. Cooking pot or stockpot
A large cooking pot or stock pot are good ideas to carry all your supplies on anything but a backpack day.
7. Oversized mug or coffee carafe
If it’s a mug, place items inside and carry it by the handle. For a carafe, just open the top of the carafe and place your items inside.
8. Picnic basket
Is it a great idea to use picnic baskets instead of a backpack? They can even be used to hold lunch.
9. Toolbox
The sturdy handle of the toolboxes make them wonderful ideas for Anything But a Backpack Day.
Besides, if you want to turn these simple boxes into something unique, let’s use clear vinyl stickers to preserve their sleek metallic finish. Choose geometric patterns, motivational quotes like “Tools of Success,” or retro industrial symbols for a work-related theme.
10. Pillowcase
Fill the pillowcase with your items. Then, close the zipper or knot the open end (if it doesn’t have the zipper closure), and use it as a creative container on Anything but Backpack Day.
11. Umbrella with items hanging off the inside
This will be an interesting idea if you can hang off your items inside an umbrella. Simply open it and secure items by tying them to the frame.
12. Paper grocery bag
Paper grocery bags are an eco-friendly way to keep everything together. You can reinforce the bottom with tape or cardboard for added safety.
13. Plastic storage bin
Small plastic storage bins with handles will be a great choice for easy move.
14. Bucket
Bucket is also a lightweight and convenient replacement for a school bag.
To bring a more shiny and playful look for it on Anything But a Backpack Day, it’s ideal to use holographic stickers. Opt for themes like rainbows, stars, or custom name stickers for a personalized touch.
15. Inflatable pool toy (like a flamingo or donut float)
Put your items into the hollow center of these pool toys and carry them on Anything But a Backpack Day as a surprising idea.
Sports and Outdoor Gear
16. Fishing net
A fishing net for carrying supplies will sure to catch everyone’s attention.
17. Baseball glove
Use a large glove to hold small items. For portability and creativity, you can tie the glove to a belt loop.
18. Soccer ball cut open (to act as a container)
A hollowed-out old soccer ball will be a perfect container for the child who loves sport.
19. Bicycle basket
For a funny item, how about using a bicycle basket on Anything But a Backpack Day? It will be a classic, vintage appeal and spacious container.
20. Picnic cooler
You can rest assured that you won’t have trouble handling this portable container at school. It can also be used as a lunchbox for more fun.
21. Golf bag
A golf bag is a spacious, sporty option for carrying supplies.
22. Hiking backpack
Repurpose a hiking backpack for an interesting idea on Anything But a Backpack Day.
23. Life vest with pockets filled
A life vest’s built-in pockets can hold pens, notebooks, and snacks.
24. Camping lantern case
A lantern case can become a compact and durable container
25. Frisbee with handles glued to the sides
Get creative with a frisbee. You can glue or attach handles to the sides of a large frisbee to create a shallow but functional carrier for lightweight supplies.
26. Folding chair with items tied to it
A portable camping chair will surprise everyone on Anything But a Backpack Day. You can tie your belongings to its frame with bungee cords or strings.
27. Skateboard
Make your school or office supplies portable by securing them to your skateboard deck and rolling them.
28. Tennis racket cover
If you play tennis, using the racket cover as a carrying bag is a great idea
29. Gym ball (carved out)
Carve out a gym ball to create a round bag.
30. Kayak paddle case
A paddle case can be a long, slim carrier for pencils, rulers, or even rolled-up papers.
Large Toys and Kids’ Items
31. Toy box
Repurposing a colorful toy box to carry books and supplies is a playful and practical idea.
32. Toy car
A toy car like the Little Tikes Cozy Coupe can roll around while holding your supplies in the seat or trunk.
33. Toy boat
The hollow interior of a toy boat makes a perfect space to store your items.
34. Toy dump truck
Toy dump trucks with functional beds are ideal for hauling school supplies.
35. Large stuffed animal with pockets sewn in
This cuddly option is both functional and adorable to replace the backpack.
36. Giant teddy bear
Make it even more fun by installing a zipper on a giant teddy bear to use as a hidden storage space.
37. Barbie dreamhouse
The barbie dreamhouse is a great carrier for smaller items. You can secure it with a ribbon or strap for portability.
38. Building blocks
Glue lego or similar building blocks into a box shape for a DIY storage bin.
39. Ball pit balls
It’s a great idea to tape together colorful ball pit balls to form a lightweight container for carrying supplies.
40. Toy wagon
It’s easy to pull and can hold books, snacks, and many other school items.
Kitchen and Food Containers
41. Large spaghetti strainer
A spaghetti strainer can serve as a fun carrier for school supplies.
42. Crockpot (empty, of course)
A crockpot makes for a solid and sturdy container.
43. Rolling cooler
This item is perfect for heavy items, and the wheels make it easy to transport.
44. Bread box
Repurpose a bread box for a vintage and spacious container.
45. Cake carrier
A cake carrier is not just for desserts. You can use it to carry lightweight supplies.
46. Giant soup can
An oversized soup can is a hilarious and creative option. Cover it with holographic or metallic stickers to mimic soup labels for a playful theme.
47. Salad spinner
A salad spinner makes it an eye-catching and interesting choice on Anything But a Backpack Day.
48. Empty coffee tin
A large coffee tin is sturdy and lightweight.to bring it to school.
49. Cookie jar
This option can hold small items like pens and notebooks.
50. Pizza box
A pizza box is flat yet spacious. It will definitely bring laughter to everyone.
51. Egg carton
You can use an egg carton for carrying small items like erasers or paperclips.
52. Cheese grater (Use with Caution!)
A cheese grater works best for light items. However, be cautious when handling the sharp edges.
53. Plastic grocery basket
Plastic grocery baskets are lightweight and roomy. It’s ideal to create a playful shopping vibe.
54. Large cooking pot
A large pot will definitely be large enough to carry your books and supplies.
55. Ice cream tub
Clean a large ice cream tub and then you can bring a lightweight container.
Odd Belongings
56. Mini shopping cart
It is super cute to carry books around in a shopping cart instead of a backpack.
To make it more stand out, you can decorate it with cut-to-the-shape vinyl stickers like fruits, vegetables, or tiny groceries for a fun element.
57. Rolling suitcase
A rolling suitcase can be a wonderful option with its portability and spacious containers.
58. Skateboard helmet
Turn a sturdy skateboard helmet upside down to use as a bowl-like container.
59. Baby tricycle
If you have a baby tricycle, use it as a humorous option for Anything But a Backpack Day.
60. Oversized hats
An oversized hat, such as a sombrero or a cowboy hat, can double as a stylish carrier when flipped upside down.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
61. Reusable shopping bag
While simple, a reusable shopping bag is a lightweight and environmentally friendly option.
62. Old shoebox
Let’s transform an old shoebox into a unique container.
63. Cardboard box
A plain cardboard box becomes stunning when personalized with die-cut or holographic vinyl stickers. You can use bold, colorful designs like comic book patterns, graffiti art, or even your favorite emojis to make your container more appealing on Anything But a Backpack Day.
64. Wicker basket
It is a naturally rustic and charming alternative.
65. Folded newspaper basket
If you love DIY, this option is perfect. However, it can only carry small items.
66. Recycled milk jug
A clean, recycled milk jug can easily be turned into a unique container.
67. Old wine crate
Wine crates are sturdy and spacious choices.
68. Burlap sack
For a rustic yet functional container, you can use a burlap sack.
69. Empty glass jar
An empty glass jar is another great environment-friendly idea. It is transparent, so perfect for adding clear stickers. You can opt for designs like raindrops, snowflakes, or tiny flowers to create an elegant effect.
70. Plastic soda bottle cut in half
Get creative by cutting a plastic soda bottle for a functional container.
71. Canvas tote bag
Totes can serve as stylish and practical options for storing books and other supplies.
72. Mason jar box
A mason box can store supplies uniquely.
73. Fabric scraps sewn into a bag
A DIY bag made from fabric scraps is eco-friendly and unique for holding all your school items.
74. Used mailing box
Why don’t you turn a plain used mailing box into an artistic masterpiece with sticker bombing? Choose a mix of stickers in various sizes and themes—animals, memes, or pop culture icons— to give the box a dynamic look.
75. DIY bag from old jeans
Repurpose old jeans into a trendy bag.
Work and Office-Specific Items
76. Filing cabinet drawer (detached)
Detach a filing cabinet drawer, add a handle or strap for carrying, and now you have a professional yet unconventional storage solution.
77. Briefcase
The briefcase is a wise option if you want something with a sleek look.
78. Laptop bag
A laptop bag is a straightforward option that can be used as a compact carrier for school supplies.
79. Printer tray
Carry books and notebooks in this flat tray for a hilarious container.
80. Large envelope
A large envelope is simple but highly creative.
81. Office trash can
Turn an office trash can into a special backpack alternative. You can decorate the exterior with 3D raised stickers shaped like crumpled paper, recycling symbols, or pens and pencils to match the office theme.
82. Empty paper shredder
Place school supplies in the top slot or where the shredded paper would normally go.
83. Coffee thermos
A large, empty coffee thermos can carry small supplies like pens and erasers.
84. Desk drawer
Detach a desk drawer and use it as a flat yet spacious carrier.
85. Cardboard cutout of a backpack
For a truly DIY option, cut a large piece of cardboard into the shape of a backpack. Then, drill small holes into it and use strings or clips to attach supplies directly onto the cardboard.
Group or Themed Ideas
86. All coworkers or classmates bring the same item
Make Anything But a Backpack Day a themed party by having everyone carry their supplies in the same item, like grocery bags, pillowcases, or even buckets.
87. Items from the same color palette
Encourage everyone to pick containers in a shared color palette, such as pastels, neon shades, or monochrome black and white to create a unified look.
88. Items from a specific decade
Transport the group to another era by choosing containers that reflect a specific decade. For example, in the 80s, think boomboxes or retro lunchboxes.
89. DIY crafts made from cardboard
Be creative by making DIY containers out of cardboard. Groups can construct and decorate their carriers as houses, animals, or even vehicles.
90. Recycled materials only
Challenge the group to use recycled materials, like milk jugs, tin cans, or old jars, as their carriers.
91. Matching decorated containers
With this idea, each person can bring different container types. However, the Anything But a Backpack Day rules are they need to decorate them with the same decorations, such as holographic stickers.
They can choose for the same holographic stickers themes such as celestial themes (stars, moons, and planets), animal print (zebra stripes, paw prints in holographic finishes),…
Last words
Except for traditional backpacks, there are many other options for creativity and humor on Anything But a Backpack Day, whether you’re at school or work. By choosing a unique carrier, you’re not just participating in a themed day, you’re expressing your individuality and showing off your inventive side.
Moreover, the right addition of personalization, like stickers can turn even the simplest idea into something unforgettable. To make your creations truly stand out, consider shopping for a variety of fun stickers on our website. Explore our collection now and get ready for a truly special backpack alternative!
