How to Choose a Backpack For Kids

1 Choose a Backpack With Two Adjustable Straps

And make sure your child uses both straps! This will ensure that the backpack weight is evenly distributed. Adjust both straps to ensure the weight of the bag is close to the spine and not sagging behind the knees.

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2 Find the Right Size Backpack For Your Child

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Choose a backpack that is large enough to accommodate your child's necessary contents, but as small as possible relative to their size. Luckily, you shouldn't have to sacrifice style for function at any size.

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3 Look For a Backpack With Support Straps

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Support straps (the straps that buckle across your child's chest and hips) are a great idea as the weight of their bag increases. For a backpack that will weigh over 10 percent of your child's body weight, look for a backpack that has a chest strap and waist/lumbar belt. This keeps the weight of the contents centered as close to the body as possible and allows the legs and pelvis to take pressure off the spine.

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4 Padded Backpack Straps Offer the Most Comfort

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Padding can make a backpack much more comfortable, and becomes more important the longer a backpack will be worn. Feel for padding on the straps as well as on the back where it will cushion your child's spine against the contents of the bag.

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5 Choose a Lightweight Backpack Material

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One easy way to decrease the weight of the backpack is to purchase a bag that is light when empty. Light fabrics like nylon are ideal; avoid heavy fabrics such as canvas.

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6 Avoid a Heavy Backpack When Full

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Keep the weight of the full backpack less than 10 to 20 percent of your child's body weight. So, a 60 pound child should only be carrying a total of six to 12 pounds on their back; a child weighing 120 pounds should only carry about 12 to 24 pounds. A heavy backpack can eventually lead to neck and back pain, even in children.

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7 Avoid Potential Backpack Hazards

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Avoid adding bulky keychains and look for a backpack with minimal unnecessary straps and flaps. Any of these accessories could be a potential tripping hazard when on the floor or catch on a bike or locker when mobile.

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