The perfect school backpack: Tips for choosing design, ergonomics, and size
For many children, the first school backpack is a real highlight – and for parents, an important decision. Besides colorful designs and cool motifs, it is especially important that the backpack is comfortable, practical, and healthy for the little back. But how do you find the perfect school backpack? Let's clarify the most important questions!
When should you buy the school backpack?
Most parents start their search for the right school backpack in the spring before school starts – at this time, the school enrollment is still half a year away. Parents therefore have enough time to compare different models and prices. Additionally, spring offers the largest selection of school backpacks and many stores attract customers with discounts.
If the school start is still half a year away, your future first grader's body size could still change. Therefore, opt for backpacks that grow with your child, e.g., school backpacks with a height-adjustable carrying system.
Some parents wait for offers shortly before school starts. This is often cheaper, and you can adjust the backpack's fit to your child's current body size. However, the selection might be limited shortly before school begins.
Are you still looking for a school backpack for enrollment? Discover current models for first graders from manufacturers like ergobag, Step by Step, Scout, DerDieDas & Co.
-> School backpacks for 1st grade
School backpacks – what should you pay attention to?
When choosing the right school backpack, parents should consider these 6 criteria:
Ergonomics
Ergonomic school backpacks focus on back-friendliness. To avoid overloading the spine, the backpack should have padded shoulder straps, a reinforced back panel, and ideally a chest or hip belt. With these practical straps, your child can carry the daily weight of school books with minimal health strain.
Visibility
Reflectors on school backpacks are a must so that your child is well seen in traffic even in bad weather or darkness.
Size
Many children experience significant growth spurts during elementary school – yet the backpack should fit optimally from 1st to 4th grade. Therefore, make sure the ergonomic school bag has a continuously adjustable back system and an adjustable chest strap available. This way, the backpack can be adjusted to the schoolchild's back after each growth phase.
Storage space
Pay attention to clever compartments and pockets so your child can stay organized. Ideally, the inner compartment is near the back and larger to store heavy books there. The closer the heavy items are to the back, the easier they are to carry. An externally attached side pocket as a drink holder could prevent closed drink bottles from damaging the inside of the school bag in case of leaks when hurriedly closed.
Processing
During the school years, the backpack has to endure a lot – after all, it is used 5 days a week. Durable and waterproof materials protect notebooks and books from rain and snow. Closures with a magnetic function offer your schoolchild easy and quick opening of the backpack – even with just one hand!
Design
In the end, the school backpack should of course also appeal to your child. Let them help choose, because after all, they will be carrying the backpack daily. Whether with dinosaurs, princesses, or cool color gradients – the design is at least as important to children as the wearing comfort. Velcro patches in various designs can be attached to many models as desired – so your schoolchild can alternately attach their favorite motifs to the backpack.
How heavy should a school backpack be?
The weight of the school backpack is one of the most important criteria. Ideally, the backpack should not weigh more than 10–15% of your child's body weight – including contents. For example, if your child weighs 20 kg, the backpack should weigh a maximum of 3 kg. When buying, pay attention not only to the backpack's own weight but also consider how heavy the school supplies could be on a daily basis.
A little tip: Check the backpack regularly. Often toys or unnecessary notebooks sneak in, increasing the weight.
How many liters of volume should a school backpack have?
The volume of the school backpack mainly depends on the age and the number of school materials needed:
- For primary school (6 to 10 years), models between 15 and 20 liters are sufficient.
- In secondary school, often more books, larger notebooks, and additional materials are needed, so the backpack should have a volume between 20 and 30 liters.
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In the upper level, a backpack with up to 35 liters can be useful.
Buying School Backpacks: Our Top Brands
With all these great brands, are you unsure which one suits your child best? Here are advantages and special features of our top brands at a glance:
ergobag
Ergobag combines ergonomic innovation with sustainable materials:
✓ Ergonomic school backpacks inspired by trekking backpacks
✓ Environmentally friendly and sustainable materials, often made from recycled PET bottles
✓ Long service life thanks to an adjustable carrying system for the perfect fit
✓ Interchangeable Kletties for individual design
-> Discover ergobag school backpacks now
Step by Step
Step by Step offers maximum safety and design variety for the perfect school equipment:
✓ Focus on safety and visibility in traffic through reflective elements and bright colors
✓ Wide selection of designs for different preferences and customization through interchangeable motifs
✓ Expandable sets, often including accessories like pencil cases and gym bags
✓ Complete solutions with all accessories
-> To the Step by Step backpacks
DerDieDas
DerDieDas sets new standards with ultra-light school backpacks for comfort and ergonomics:
✓ Extremely lightweight school backpacks, ideal for smaller or delicate children
✓ Ergonomic back padding and adjustable straps
✓ Thoughtful, structured interior layout
Coocazoo
Coocazoo stands for stylish, ergonomic school backpacks with an individual touch and a focus on safety:
✓ Ergonomic school backpacks for older children and teenagers
✓ Varied designs, large color selection and personalization options, often with reflective details
✓ Lots of storage space for books and leisure items
-> View Coocazoo school backpacks
Scout
Scout is known for safety, durability, and child-friendly designs:
✓ Classic among school backpack brands with decades of experience
✓ Safety through generous reflectors and signal colors
✓ Wide variety of designs with child-appropriate motifs
✓ Proven quality and durability
Conclusion: Take enough time to choose the optimal school backpack. The backpack should definitely be ergonomic and fit well – this way the load on the back won’t become a health burden. With these tips, you will surely find the perfect school backpack that not only protects the little back but also makes every school day a bit more colorful.
