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 colourful designs and cool motifs, what matters most is that the backpack is comfortable, practical and healthy for a small 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 spring before the start of school – at this point, the start of school is still about six months away. This gives parents enough time to compare different models and prices. In addition, spring offers the largest selection of school backpacks, and many shops attract customers with discounts.
If the start of school is still six months away, your soon-to-be first-grader's height might still change. That's why it's worth choosing school backpacks that grow with your child, such as school backpacks with a height-adjustable carrying system.
Some parents wait for deals shortly before school starts. This is often cheaper, and you can adjust the fit of the backpack to your child's current height. However, the selection may already be limited shortly before school starts.
Still looking for a school backpack for the first day of school? Discover current models for first-graders from brands such as ergobag, Step by Step, Scout, DerDieDas & Co.
-> School backpacks for 1st grade
School backpacks – what should you look out for?
When choosing the right school backpack, parents should consider these 6 criteria:
Ergonomics
Ergonomic school backpacks focus on being back-friendly. To avoid overloading the spine, the school backpack should have padded shoulder straps, a reinforced back panel and ideally a chest or hip strap. With these practical straps, your child can carry the daily weight of school books with minimal strain on their health.
Visibility
Reflectors on school backpacks are a must, so your child is clearly visible in traffic, even in bad weather or darkness.
Size
Many children go through enormous growth spurts during primary school – yet the backpack should fit perfectly from 1st to 4th grade. Make sure the ergonomic school bag has a continuously adjustable back system and an adjustable chest strap. This way, the backpack can be adjusted to the child's back after each growth spurt.
Storage space
Look for clever compartments and pockets so your child can stay organised. Ideally, the inner compartment closest to the back is 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 compartment can help prevent hastily closed water bottles from damaging the inside of the backpack if the bottle leaks.
Workmanship
During the school year, the backpack has to withstand quite a lot – after all, it's used 5 days a week. Durable and waterproof materials protect notebooks and books from rain and snow. Magnetic fasteners allow your child to open the school backpack easily and quickly – even with just one hand!
Design
In the end, the school backpack should of course also appeal to your child. Let them have a say in the choice, since they'll be wearing the backpack every day. Whether with dinosaurs, princesses or cool colour gradients – design is at least as important to children as wearing comfort. Velcro patches in various designs can be attached to many models as desired – so your child can swap their favourite motifs on the backpack whenever they like.
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 its contents. For example, if your child weighs 20 kg, the backpack should weigh a maximum of 3 kg. So when buying, pay attention not only to the backpack's own weight but also consider how heavy the school items might get in everyday use.
A quick tip: Check the backpack regularly. Toys or unnecessary notebooks often sneak in, adding extra weight.
How many litres of volume should a school backpack have?
The volume of the school backpack depends mainly on the age and the number of school supplies needed:
- For primary school (6 to 10 years), models between 15 and 20 l are sufficient.
- In secondary school, more books, larger notebooks and additional materials are often needed, so the backpack should have a volume between 20 and 30 l.
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In upper secondary school, a backpack with up to 35 l can be useful.
Buying a school backpack: our top brands
With all these great brands, are you unsure which one best suits your child? Here are the advantages and special features of our top brands at a glance:
ergobag
Ergobag combines ergonomic innovation:
✓ Ergonomic school backpacks inspired by trekking backpacks
✓ Materials often
✓ Long service life thanks to a carrying system that grows with your child for an optimal fit
✓ Interchangeable Velcro patches 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 colours
✓ Large selection of designs for different preferences and customisability through interchangeable motifs
✓ Expandable sets, often including accessories such as pencil cases and gym bags
✓ Complete solutions with all accessories
-> To the Step by Step backpacks
DerDieDas
DerDieDas sets new standards for comfort and ergonomics with ultra-lightweight school backpacks:
✓ Extremely lightweight school backpacks, ideal for smaller or slender 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, a wide colour selection and personalisation options, often with reflective details
✓ Plenty of storage space for books and leisure items
-> View Coocazoo school backpacks
Scout
Scout is known for safety, durability and child-friendly designs:
✓ A classic among school backpack brands with decades of experience
✓ Safety through generous reflectors and signal colours
✓ Wide design variety with child-friendly motifs
✓ Proven quality and durability
Conclusion: Take enough time to choose the ideal school backpack. The backpack should always be ergonomic and fit well – this way, the load on the back won't become a strain on your child's health. With these tips, you're sure to find the perfect school backpack, one that not only protects a small back but also makes every school day a bit more colourful.
