Back to School: Kid's Backpack Guide

It’s that time of year when the summer festivities are coming to a close and the shelves at stores are lined with an array of new notebooks, folders, pens, and pencils. Fall fashion is in and your little one is dying for the new superhero or princess backpack. But, look beyond the bright colors and cool style when choosing a backpack. As children grow, it is important that they
choose a backpack that won’t cause them pain. Here are our tips for selecting a backpack that will provide style and comfort for your kids.

Avoid the single strap pack. ​The lopsided nature of this pack is bound to have a negative impact on the user’s body over time. Find a backpack that has two padded shoulder straps that fit snug. It’s a bonus too if there is an additional chest or waist strap.

Size​. The backpack you select should not be wider or longer than your child’s torso. It may seem great to get your child a bigger backpack because they will have more room. However, more room means more stuff and unnecessary weight.

Weight​. Rule of thumb is that your child’s backpack should not weigh more than 10–15% of their body weight when packed. You should advise your child to pack only what they really need. If they are having trouble standing up because of the weight on their back, there is a problem. Backpacks are now technologically designed to be lighter. More pouches result in a better distribution of weight. When packing the pack, you want to put the heavier items closer to your back so you are lifting with your legs rather than your spine.
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Wear the pack correctly.​ Having two straps is one thing, but using them is another. Backpacks should be worn on both shoulders and snug to touch the back. It may be the fad for teens to wear their backpack low but this fad is not good for your back. Their backpack should never go further than 4 inches below the waist.