Top 100 Fun “Anything But A Backpack Day” Ideas to Try This Year

“Anything But A Backpack Day” is one of the most anticipated and entertaining events in schools and workplaces alike. The concept is simple: instead of carrying your books, lunch, or other daily essentials in a traditional backpack, you bring them in something completely different—anything but a backpack! This quirky and fun idea not only showcases creativity but also brings a sense of humor and excitement to the day. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or just someone who loves a good laugh, this guide will inspire you with 100 inventive ideas to make your “Anything But A Backpack Day” unforgettable.

Section 1: Classic and Easy Ideas

1. Laundry Basket A laundry basket is a classic choice that’s both practical and amusing. It’s large enough to carry all your essentials, and the handles make it easy to transport. Plus, you can find them in a variety of colors and designs to match your style.

2. Pillowcase Lightweight and flexible, a pillowcase is an easy option that can be tied at the top to keep your items secure. It’s also a great opportunity to show off a fun pattern or favorite character.

3. Grocery Bag Reusable grocery bags are not only eco-friendly but also spacious enough to carry your books and supplies. Opt for one with a funky design to add a touch of personality.

4. Cooler Bring your items in a cooler, and you’ll keep them cool—literally! A rolling cooler with wheels is particularly handy, and it adds an extra layer of fun as you roll it down the hallway.

5. Tool Box A tool box is a sturdy and unexpected choice that can hold a surprising amount of stuff. Whether it’s a small, handheld box or a larger, rolling one, this idea is sure to turn heads.

6. Picnic Basket Channel some vintage charm with a picnic basket. It’s not only stylish but also functional, with enough room for all your daily essentials.

7. Pot Yes, we’re talking about the kind you cook in! A large pot with handles makes for a quirky and durable container that’s bound to get some laughs.

8. Trash Can A clean, unused trash can (or a small one with a lid) can serve as a humorous and spacious alternative to a backpack. Just make sure it’s clean!

9. Bucket A large plastic bucket is another simple and sturdy choice. You can even decorate it with stickers or paint to make it your own.

10. Cardboard Box A cardboard box is easy to find and customize. Cut handles into the sides for easier carrying, or go all out and decorate it to match your personality.

Section 2: Unique and Unexpected Ideas

11. Shopping Cart If you really want to make a statement, bring your items in a shopping cart! This idea is sure to turn heads and get everyone talking.

12. Pet Carrier A pet carrier (without the pet, of course) is a fun and practical alternative. The handles make it easy to carry, and it’s sturdy enough to protect your belongings.

13. Suitcase Why not bring a rolling suitcase and glide through the halls in style? It’s spacious and easy to maneuver, making it a perfect choice for “Anything But A Backpack Day.”

14. Toy Wagon A toy wagon is a playful and nostalgic option. Pulling your items along in a brightly colored wagon is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

15. Wheelbarrow For those who like to think outside the box, a wheelbarrow is a bold choice. It’s roomy, easy to push, and definitely not something you see every day.

16. Traffic Cone This one is for the daring! Carry your items in a large, hollow traffic cone. It’s unconventional and guaranteed to grab attention.

17. Musical Instrument Case Repurpose a guitar case, drum bag, or any other instrument case for the day. It’s a great way to show off your musical interests while sticking to the theme.

18. Animal Feed Bag A clean animal feed bag is a humorous and unique way to carry your belongings. The large size ensures you’ll have plenty of space for everything you need.

19. Life Jacket Strap on a life jacket and use the pockets to carry your essentials. It’s lightweight and sure to make waves.

20. Mailbox An old mailbox can be a fun and quirky container. Just be sure to clean it out thoroughly before use!

Section 3: Hilarious and Over-the-Top Ideas

21. Canoe Yes, you read that right—a canoe! If you can manage to carry it, a small canoe or kayak is a hilarious and over-the-top choice that’s sure to make you the star of the day.

22. Giant Teddy Bear Stuff your items inside a giant teddy bear for a cute and whimsical take on the challenge. Plus, you’ll have a cuddly companion all day long.

23. Recycling Bin A clean, rolling recycling bin is an absurd yet practical option. The wheels make it easy to transport, and it’s big enough to hold everything you need.

24. Popcorn Machine If you really want to go all out, bring a small popcorn machine and fill it with your books and supplies. It’s guaranteed to pop a few smiles.

25. Inflatable Pool An inflatable kiddie pool filled with your essentials is a hilarious and unexpected idea. Just be prepared for some extra attention!

26. Microwave An old microwave (cleaned out, of course) is a hilarious way to store your stuff. It’s bulky, but that’s part of the fun.

27. Shopping Basket Similar to the shopping cart but more portable, a shopping basket is a quirky and practical option. Just like when you’re in the grocery store, it’s easy to carry and holds a surprising amount.

28. Tuba Case If you have access to a tuba case, why not use it? It’s large and unwieldy, making it perfect for the absurdity of “Anything But A Backpack Day.”

29. BBQ Grill A small, portable BBQ grill is another over-the-top option that’s sure to get laughs. Just make sure it’s clean and free of any remnants from your last cookout!

30. Santa Sack Channel your inner Santa Claus by carrying your items in a large red sack. It’s festive, fun, and definitely not a backpack.

Section 4: Creative DIY Ideas

31. LEGO Container Use a large LEGO storage container to carry your things. It’s colorful, playful, and can be a nod to your love for building and creativity.

32. Skateboard Strap a container to the top of a skateboard and roll your items from class to class. It’s a fun and creative way to show off your skating skills.

33. Pizza Box Carry your stuff in a large, empty pizza box. It’s lightweight and humorous, especially if you add some fake grease stains for realism.

34. Flower Pot A large flower pot with handles can be a charming and unexpected choice. You can even decorate it with fake flowers for an added touch of creativity.

35. Bird Cage An old birdcage (without the bird) is a whimsical and airy option. It’s lightweight and sure to be a conversation starter.

36. Basketball Hoop A portable basketball hoop (just the hoop part) can be a fun and athletic way to carry your essentials. Just make sure everything stays securely inside!

37. Hay Bale Use a small, tightly packed hay bale to transport your items. It’s rustic, unusual, and a great conversation piece.

38. Potted Plant A large potted plant with a sturdy pot can double as a container for your belongings. It’s an earthy, green choice that’s sure to stand out.

39. Diaper Bag If you have access to a diaper bag, use it to carry your things. It’s practical, funny, and might even remind you of your younger years.

40. Toy Chest A small toy chest is a playful and nostalgic way to carry your items. It’s also sturdy and spacious enough for all your essentials.

Section 5: Eco-Friendly and Recycled Ideas

41. Reusable Tote Bag A reusable tote bag is a simple, eco-friendly option that’s easy to carry. Choose one with a fun print to make it stand out.

42. Upcycled Clothing Repurpose old clothing into a makeshift bag. For example, turn an old pair of jeans into a denim tote or use a large hoodie to create a drawstring bag.

43. Bicycle Basket Attach a basket to your bicycle and carry your items in it. It’s eco-friendly and adds a touch of vintage charm.

44. Old Newspaper Bag An old newspaper delivery bag is a quirky and eco-friendly option. It’s designed to carry a lot of weight, making it perfect for your books and supplies.

45. Repurposed Fabric Bag Use leftover fabric scraps to create a custom bag. It’s a great way to be creative while also being eco-conscious.

46. Compost Bin A clean, unused compost bin can be a humorous and eco-friendly alternative to a backpack. It’s large, sturdy, and definitely not something you see every day.

47. Vintage Suitcase A vintage suitcase adds a touch of retro style while also being eco-friendly. It’s a great way to reuse something old and give it a new purpose.

48. Recycled Paper Bag A large paper bag from a grocery store can be an easy, eco-friendly option. Decorate it with drawings or stickers to make it more personal.

49. Wine Crate A wooden wine crate is a sturdy and eco-friendly option.

50. Egg Carton Carrier A large, sturdy egg carton can make for an unusual and lightweight container. Add a handle or strap for easier carrying, and you’re good to go!

51. Wicker Basket A wicker basket, especially one with a lid, is a charming and eco-friendly option. It’s lightweight and adds a rustic, natural vibe to your day.

52. Canvas Bag An old canvas bag, perhaps one used for tools or camping gear, can be repurposed as a fun and durable alternative to a backpack. It’s rugged and has plenty of room for your essentials.

53. Reusable Shopping Cart If you have one of those small, foldable shopping carts often used in cities, it can double as a unique and practical carrier for your school supplies. Plus, it’s easy to roll around.

54. Bamboo Basket A bamboo basket is another eco-friendly and stylish option. It’s sturdy and lightweight, perfect for carrying books, lunch, and more.

55. Recycled Tire For those who really want to go green, consider repurposing an old, small tire. You can add a rope or strap to carry it more easily. It’s an idea that’s sure to spark conversation!

56. Old Book Bag Repurpose an old, oversized book bag or satchel. It’s a classic choice with a twist and can hold a lot while keeping the “anything but a backpack” theme intact.

57. Sewing Basket A sewing basket, especially one with compartments, can be a fun and unexpected choice. It’s compact, organized, and easy to carry.

58. Recycled Wine Bag Use a recycled wine bag (the kind with individual compartments) to carry your items. It’s lightweight, eco-friendly, and sure to turn a few heads.

59. Picnic Cooler A small picnic cooler is not only a cool (literally) option, but it’s also spacious enough to hold all your necessities. Plus, it has handles for easy carrying.

Section 6: Themed and Costume Ideas

60. Treasure Chest A small, toy treasure chest can be a fun and thematic choice, especially if you dress as a pirate. It’s playful, imaginative, and sure to be a hit.

61. Doctor’s Bag Dress up as a doctor and carry your items in a classic doctor’s bag. It’s a clever and professional-looking alternative that fits the theme perfectly.

62. Toolbox Going for a handyman or construction worker theme? A toolbox is a perfect fit. It’s sturdy, easy to carry, and can hold a surprising amount.

63. Witch’s Cauldron If you’re into the magical or Halloween theme, carry your items in a plastic cauldron. It’s spooky, fun, and totally unique.

64. Fishing Tackle Box For those who love fishing, a tackle box is a fitting choice. It’s organized and functional, with plenty of compartments for all your smaller items.

65. Popcorn Bucket Dress up like you’re at the movies and use a giant popcorn bucket as your “backpack.” It’s light, easy to carry, and sure to get a lot of laughs.

66. Bowling Ball Bag If you’re into bowling, why not carry your items in a bowling ball bag? It’s spacious and has a unique shape that’ll definitely stand out.

67. Chef’s Pot Dress as a chef and carry your books in a large cooking pot. It’s practical, thematic, and sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

68. Cowboy Saddle Bag For a Western theme, use a saddle bag (minus the horse) to carry your items. It’s rugged, thematic, and adds a touch of the Wild West to your day.

69. Magician’s Hat A large, top hat or magician’s hat can be a fun and whimsical way to carry your items, especially if you’re going for a magician theme. Just don’t let any rabbits out of the hat!

70. Construction Cone A small construction cone is not only thematic but also a hilarious way to carry your belongings. It’s perfect if you’re going for a construction worker or road worker look.

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Section 7: Group and Collaborative Ideas

71. Giant Inflatable Ball Get a group of friends together and use a giant inflatable ball as your “backpack.” It’s a fun, collaborative effort that will definitely make you stand out as a group.

72. Multi-Person Stretch Limousine (Toy) Bring in a long, toy stretch limousine as a group and use it to carry everyone’s stuff. It’s a hilarious and coordinated effort that’s sure to impress.

73. Train of Carts Each person in the group brings a small cart, and you link them together like a train. It’s a creative, collaborative idea that’s as fun as it is practical.

74. Parade Float Work together to create a mini parade float on wheels, and use it to carry your items. It’s a show-stopping idea that’s perfect for a group effort.

75. Chain of Linked Bags Each person in the group carries a bag that’s linked to the next person’s bag, creating a chain of “anything but backpacks.” It’s a fun and connected way to approach the day.

76. Tandem Bicycle If your school allows it, use a tandem bicycle to carry your stuff with a friend. It’s not just a way to transport your things, but also a fun way to get around together.

77. Firetruck (Toy) A group can use a large toy firetruck to carry their items. It’s a team effort that’s sure to turn heads and add a bit of emergency flair to the day.

78. Camel or Horse Saddle For a group theme, consider using a camel or horse saddle (without the animal) as a creative and thematic way to carry your belongings. It’s unique and sure to be remembered.

79. Marching Band Equipment If you’re in a marching band, why not use your band equipment cases to carry your items? It’s a thematic and practical way to approach the day as a group.

80. Sports Team Equipment Bag For sports teams, use your team’s equipment bags as your “anything but a backpack” option. It’s a great way to show team spirit while sticking to the theme.

Section 8: Extreme and Outlandish Ideas

81. Refrigerator Yes, a mini-fridge! If you can manage to carry it, a mini refrigerator is an over-the-top and hilarious choice that’s sure to get everyone talking.

82. Bobsled If you’re feeling daring, bring in a bobsled (without the ice) and use it as your “backpack.” It’s extreme, outlandish, and sure to be a hit.

83. Inflatable Raft An inflatable raft, especially one with handles, is a large and bold choice. It’s not something you see every day and is perfect for those who want to go big.

84. Fire Pit For the adventurous, a small, portable fire pit (cleaned out, of course) can be an absurd yet entertaining choice. It’s certainly one of the more extreme ideas.

85. Giant Beach Ball An oversized beach ball can be a hilarious and fun way to carry your items. Just be prepared for a bit of a struggle getting it through doors!

86. Horse Carriage If you have access to a small, decorative horse carriage (no horse required), it’s an elaborate and eye-catching option that’s sure to impress.

87. Inflatable Castle A small, inflatable bouncy castle (deflated for practicality) can be a whimsical and outlandish way to transport your things.

88. Log For those who want to go rustic, carrying a hollowed-out log can be an extreme yet creative choice. It’s heavy, but that’s part of the challenge!

89. Space Capsule A small, toy space capsule is an out-of-this-world idea that’s sure to get attention. It’s extreme, imaginative, and perfect for aspiring astronauts.

90. Coffin For a dramatic and slightly spooky twist, a clean, unused coffin (perhaps a toy version) can be an over-the-top choice that’s sure to be remembered.

Section 9: Animal and Nature-Themed Ideas

91. Birdhouse Carry your items in a large birdhouse. It’s a nature-friendly, whimsical choice that’s sure to catch the eye.

92. Dog Crate A small dog crate is a fun and practical alternative that also allows you to incorporate a pet-themed outfit if you wish.

93. Planter Use a large planter, perhaps one with flowers, as your carrier. It’s a natural and creative way to show off your green thumb.

94. Watering Can A large watering can is a practical and nature-themed choice that’s perfect for garden lovers.

95. Beehive (Fake) A fake beehive can be a fun and thematic option, especially if you’re dressing up in a bee costume. It’s light, unusual, and sure to create some buzz.

96. Ant Farm (Toy) A toy ant farm is a quirky and fun way to carry your items, especially if you’re going for a bug-themed look.

97. Aquarium A small, empty aquarium can be a fun and fishy way to transport your things. It’s clear, so everyone can see what you’re carrying.

98. Mushroom Basket A basket shaped like a mushroom (or decorated to look like one) is a whimsical, nature-inspired choice

99. Animal Backpack For a fun twist, use a large, plush animal toy as your backpack. Choose something like a giant teddy bear or a dinosaur to carry your essentials in style.

100. Squirrel’s Nest If you can manage it, create a faux squirrel’s nest from craft materials and use it to carry your items. It’s an imaginative and nature-inspired choice that’s sure to be a hit.

FAQs

1. What is “Anything But A Backpack Day”?

“Anything But A Backpack Day” is a fun and creative event where participants carry their books and supplies in anything other than a traditional backpack. It encourages imagination and humor, and it’s often celebrated in schools and workplaces.

2. Can I use any container for “Anything But A Backpack Day”?

Yes, the idea is to be creative and think outside the box. You can use almost anything as long as it is practical and safe to carry your items.

3. Are there any restrictions on what I can use?

Generally, there are no strict rules, but it’s best to avoid anything that could be dangerous or disruptive. Make sure your chosen container is clean and won’t cause any issues in your environment.

4. How can I make my container more functional?

Consider adding handles, straps, or other features to make carrying your container easier. You can also decorate it to match your personality or the theme you’re going for.

5. What are some ideas for group participation?

Group ideas include creating a train of linked carts, using a parade float, or even coordinating a theme like a circus with multiple themed containers. The key is to work together and have fun!