A few years ago, Kansas University students searching for backpacks would go with the traditional, simple two-strap, style.

Today, backpacks can be found in almost any style and color with extra options such as one or two straps, compact disc and cell-phone holders, and special pockets for water bottles.

With classes beginning next week, Kansas University students will be buying new school supplies, and a sturdy backpack will be on their school-supply list.

“I like backpacks because they go on your back and stay out of the way,” said Angela Link, Prairie Village senior. “Even heavy things are easy to carry because of where the weight is.”

Backpacks are popular for KU students walking from Daisy Hill to Jayhawk Boulevard. They are a comfortable way to help students keep books, notebooks and other school supplies in order. Students can easily find a backpack that fits any lifestyle.

Jackie Huseman, Lenexa senior, opted for the nontraditional one-shoulder backpack that crosses her upper body. She said she chose it because she liked the style.

“Book bags are awesome,” said Huseman, who has had the same backpack for three years. “They make it so you can carry all of your stuff, and still have room for more.”

Many stores sell a variety of backpacks, including the traditional two-strap style, one-strap and the popular messenger bags. Prices for backpacks range from $49 to more than $100, depending on the size and features.

Backwoods Equipment Co., 916 Mass., sees a surge in backpack sales before the fall semester.

“At the end of July and first few weeks of August students start shopping for backpacks,” said Sarah Ramirez, a Backwoods employee.

Kansas University students walk in front of Strong Hall while wearing a one-strap messenger bag, left, and a two-strap backpack.

She said students tended to look at backpacks that fit better and had a good warranty.

“Students like the options different styles offer,” Ramirez said. “They are now also looking into backpacks that can convert for an overnight backpacking trip or a weekend away.”

Multipurpose backpacks are popular for those searching at Backwoods. Some popular brands they offer include North Face, Patagonia and Mountainsmith.

Ramirez said sales for the one-strap messenger bags and two-strap backpacks were equal. It depended on the students’ style preferences.

Some students do not look at style or options.

“I only have a book bag because I need one,” said Nick Arthachinda, Lawrence junior. “As long as it’s big enough to carry all of the books, I don’t need to get another one.”

Arthachinda has had his plain black backpack since high school.

Jamie Labrier, McPherson senior, has had her Jansport two-strap backpack for four years. Spending money on another backpack was not worth it to her, especially since the one she has is comfortable and does not bother her back.

Megan Wesley, Hutchinson junior, said comfort was key. Although she only uses a backpack for heavy loads, Wesley said she chose the two-strap style because it helped with support and all the weight is not concentrated to one side of her back.

Wesley and Labrier both said one-strap messenger bags seemed to be popular among students but were less comfortable than two-strap backpacks.

Carrie Jones, Oklahoma City senior, had a messenger bag for three years and liked it. She went to the two-strap only because the other bag began to fall apart because of wear and tear.

The messenger bags are popular because they are easier to get into with the larger opening, but Jones said the classic backpack is still the favorite because it is easy to carry and holds the most items.

Link has had her backpack for six years.

“I will never give up on carrying a backpack as long as I am still a student,” she said.