What To Look for in Your Child’s Next Backpack
Your child’s backpack is the one item on their list of school supplies that you can guarantee will be used (and abused) everyday. It’s important to purchase a quality backpack that will provide the necessary level of comfort and protection for your child throughout the school day.
Backpacks come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. While most modern backpacks come packed with many of the standard features we have come to know and love, not all of them do. When looking for your child’s next backpack, be sure to look for these features:
Lightweight but Strong
Your child’s backpack should be made of a material that is lightweight, yet strong. If you plan on using the same backpack from last school year, check the seams and straps for wear and tear. Be sure to replace or a repair a backpack with any holes or rips.
Two Padded Shoulder Straps
Your child’s backpack should have two wide, padded shoulder straps that can be adjusted. Children should avoid using messenger style bags that only have a single strap. The presence of two straps allows the load to be distributed evenly and comfortably when walking and moving.
Padded Back Panel
Your child’s backpack should have a thick layer of padding on the back panel. A layer of padding on where the backpack rests on your child’s back can offer a level of protection from the objects in the bag if they are sharp or oddly shaped.
Added Waist Strap
Does your child’s backpack have an added waist strap? Waist straps on backpacks can be useful for keeping an otherwise full bag stable when walking or running.
What About Rolling Backpacks?
Your child might think a rolling backpack is cool or trendy, but rolling backpacks can actually create more problems for your child than they solve.
The rolling backpack is ideal for use in places with smooth surfaces, like airports or offices. Your child’s walk to and from school, and movement throughout the school building might demand something more mobile.
If your child needs to carry their backpack up and down stairs throughout the school day, then a rolling backpack would not be ideal. Additionally, rolling backpacks do not work very well on bumpy ground or inclement weather conditions.
Choosing a strong, lightweight backpack with the traditional design is always your best bet. It’s almost impossible to walk into a store during this time of year and not find a rack of good backpacks that are also on sale.
