Backpacks featuring characters like Buzz Lightyear, Princess Elsa, and Spider-Man were proudly worn on the first day of school. But they weren’t worn by students at Old Post, Long Beach, or Boulder Hill Elementary — it was Oswego High School seniors sporting the trendy character backpacks.
The trend of seniors buying cartoon-character-themed backpacks has been notable in recent years. However, the class of 2025 made the tradition even more popular on social media apps like TikTok and Instagram.
“Buying my backpack meant a lot to me,” said OH senior Elias Winding. “I started with an Avengers character backpack in kindergarten, and now I’m finishing off with it.”
Popular designs include backpacks showcasing children’s characters from Marvel, DC, Disney, and Nickelodeon. The backpacks, say seniors, serve as an element of self-expression.
“I love the tradition,” said OH senior Madison Peters. “It’s fun seeing our class together and doing fun, small activities… like this. Hopefully, we can have fun all year for our senior class,” she added.
What started as a funny, small trend has significantly grown this year at OH, with many students carrying small and funny bags has turned into a recognizable senior year trademark. One issue seniors have run into is the size of the character backpacks, which are marketed toward a younger audience. So, in addition to the character backpacks, many students also bring another small bag to carry items.
OH senior Arda Simsek said, “I bring another small bag just in case. My Spider-Man backpack is a little small to carry most items, so I use my folders and binder in my small backpack.”
Walking through the halls, it’s easy to spot the character backpacks, bright, colorful, and also funny. They may not carry every textbook, but they do carry something bigger than that: school spirit.
Unlike other senior-specific events like Senior Sunrise or dress-up days for seniors-only during spirit weeks, these backpacks are something OH seniors carry every day, making the spirited tradition more popular and visible throughout the year. Teachers and underclassmen have also noticed the trend.
“I love showing off my backpack,” said Winding. “It’s a really fun tradition and trend to participate in, and hopefully more students will participate in the trend their senior year.”
For the class of 2026, character backpacks are one way to make their last year memorable, one bag at a time. For some, like Winding and Simsek, they even come with a bit of nostalgia.
“I got Spider-Man backpack because I started off with it [in elementary school],” said Simsek. “And now I wanna finish off with it as well.”
My name is Brandyn Hudson, I am a senior at Oswego High School. I am the Co-Editior-In-Chief of 42fifty, this also my second year, and I love it! I am involved with Lacrosse, HIKE, Bionic, TALK, Student council and numerous honor societies here at Oswego. Looking forward to do great work this year! To reach me you can contact me by emailing 42fifity@sd308.org and putting my name on the subject line.
