Whether someone is studying physically or virtually, a backpack is an essential possession. A backpack houses all your necessary school supplies, and you can carry them every day. Even if you attend classes virtually from home, a backpack comes in handy when you want to clear books, notepads, and other items off your desk. School backpacks are, therefore, a must-have item for every school-going kid and adult.
So what do you look for when selecting your backpack for school?
Backpacks come in different sizes, shapes, and colours. Typically, when choosing a backpack, you have to consider its quality. You will use the backpack daily to take items to and from school, and it has to withstand everyday usage, including travelling, locker storage and the heavy items it may carry at times.
When checking out the quality, the things to look for include:
- Avoiding loose or careless stitching that could easily become undone
- Do not purchase a backpack with raw or frayed fabric edges because they can unravel
- Check out the zippers so that you purchase backpacks that have fabric flaps covering zippers to protect from water and other elements
Because you will use the backpack daily, make sure that it fits properly. If it does not fit properly, it may cause back and shoulder pains. In most cases, the most comfortable backpack may not be the most stylish. For a properly fitting backpack, consider the following:
Size
The backpack’s size should be proportionate to the person using it. You cannot purchase an adult-sized backpack for your small child. Check out the height of the bag. Ideally, it should extend from a few inches below the shoulder blasdes to the waist level or slightly above the waist.
Straps
The straps need to offer you the comfort you need and protect the shoulders from excess pressure. As such, ensure that the straps have padding. Additionally, make sure to use both straps so that you can evenly distribute the weight of the backpack. Using one strap will exert too much pressure on that one shoulder, making you strain. Ensure that the backpack you purchase has adjustable straps to make it fit properly and help you position well. After you adjust the straps, ensure that they are even in length.
Make Use of Waist and Chest Straps
The waist and chest straps will help in the distribution of weight. Ensure that they sit properly on your child because if they don’t, they will cause discomfort. Typically, adjust the chest straps to bring in shoulder straps so that the hands can move freely. Also, ensure that you adjust the height of the chest strap so that your child is comfortable.
Check Out for Pockets, Slots, and Dividers
The portioning will help in distributing the weight. The partitions act as support tools when you have ensured that the shoulder straps are even, the backpack sits at the right height, and you are using both straps. When distributing your items, make sure that heavier items are closer to your back and the lighter ones are further away from the body.
Other Factors to Consider
Generally, it is important to test the bag before you purchase it. You can try loading it with a few of the items you will usually carry to test the weight distribution. You can test different bags so that you can identify the bag that is comfortable enough for you.
Also, ensure that the weight will not be more than 15% of your body weight. Considering the weight will help lengthen the backpack’s life span and take care of your health, especially for kids. You do not want to strain their back and shoulders with excess weight. A kid who weighs 100 pounds should not carry a backpack that weighs more than 15 pounds.
Bottom-line
Backpacks for school are available in various sizes, colours, and styles. Although they vary in price, you can find generally affordable backpacks. When identifying a backpack for your child, it is good to consider his or her style. You may want to know the color that they like, or the backback design they like. The best time to buy a school backpack is during the back-to-school shopping season. It is the season when you can get a variety of high-quality backpacks. Make sure to check all the details of the bag before you pay for it. Quality is important because you will use the backpack daily. You do not want to be buying a school backpack every few weeks.
