When shopping for a backpack for your little one, consider your child’s size in comparison to the backpack to ensure that it is worn properly with the weight evenly distributed. “Students should be encouraged to wear both straps fastened, so the backpack sits close to their back,” Brian Reilly, MD, a sports medicine physician at Akron Children’s Hospital, tells Verywell Family. “Wearing just one strap can put the spine and neck in an unnatural position. Some backpacks offer waist straps that can be helpful in distributing the weight of heavier backpacks.” Moreover, choose an option with plenty of pockets, a laptop sleeve, or other features that are important for your child’s needs. We looked carefully at design, material, age recommendations, durability, value, and sizes when reviewing products. It has several pockets and compartments, including a water bottle pocket on the side and a large compartment that can hold notebooks, folders, books, and a lunch box at once. It’s safe for kids as young as 6 years old to use and it can be machine washed and line dried. Dimensions: 7.25 x 13 x 16 inches | Number of pockets: 5 | Age range: 6 years old and up | Weight: 1 pound | Water bottle holders: 1 | Price at time of publication: $40 The backpack is made from super heavy-duty materials and has a waterproof interior liner to keep everything safe and dry. Finally, if your kid can’t get enough of the backpack’s cute pattern, you can also purchase a matching lunch box separately. Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 4.7 inches | Number of pockets: 2 | Age range: 3 years old and up | Weight: 1.34 pounds | Water bottle holders: 1 | Price at time of publication: $47 The main compartment has plenty of room for a small tablet, book, and some toys, and there is an interior name label to help your child keep track of it. This backpack has adjustable padded straps, is easy to clean, and measures 11 x 5 x 12 inches. Dimensions: 11 x 5 x 12 inches | Number of pockets: 3 | Age range: 3 years old and up | Weight: 0.5 pounds | Water bottle holders: 1 | Price at time of publication: $22 By purchasing this backpack, you not only ensure your kid has a high-quality bag for the school year, but you also help give back because State uses a portion of its profits to provide backpacks and school supplies to kids in need. Dimensions: 4.72 x 11.22 x 14.95 inches | Number of pockets: 3 | Age range: 4 years old and up | Weight: 1.10 pounds | Water bottle holders: 2 | Price at time of publication: $95 This backpack measures 17.5 x 13 x 10 inches, has an internal sleeve that’s large enough to fit a 15-inch laptop, and has a fully padded back panel for extra comfort. Dimensions: 17.5 x 13 x 10 inches | Number of pockets: 4 | Age range: Not listed | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Water bottle holders: 1 | Price at time of publication: $55 While you can use any food container that fits into the insulated pocket, Bentgo offers a matching bento-style lunch box (sold separately). The backpack comes in a variety of patterns and is made from BPA-free materials. Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 7.5 inches | Number of pockets: 3 | Age range: Not listed | Weight: 1.4 pounds | Water bottle holders: 1 | Price at time of publication: $50 The bag has adjustable padded straps and a reinforced handle at the top and is made with water-resistant fabric. From unicorns to LEGO characters, you can get this mini backpack in a variety of colors and patterns, though we especially love the navy solar system pattern, which glows in the dark. Plus, you can personalize the backpack with the kiddo’s name. Dimensions: 4.5 x 10 x 12.5 inches | Number of pockets: 3 | Age range: Not listed (Fits children 36 to 42 inches tall) | Weight: Not listed | Water bottle holders: 2 | Price at time of publication: $55 The backpack is also equipped with smooth-rolling wheels and reflective materials for visibility, and it’s made from weatherproof nylon to withstand rainy days. With several pockets and large compartments, it’s also large enough to carry everything your kid needs for class (and more). Dimensions: 9.5 x 14 x 19 inches | Number of pockets: 5 | Age range: 13 years old and up | Weight: 5 pounds, 3 ounces | Water bottle holders: 2 | Price at time of publication: $99 Thanks to its high-quality materials, both the padded adjustable straps and carrying handle are heavy-duty enough to withstand a year’s (or more) worth of wear and tear. This backpack is available in a variety of colors and in three sizes. While it is pricier than several other options on our list, we think the cost is worth it for those looking for a backpack that will last their kids years to come and can accompany them to school, dance class, guitar lessons, and more. Dimensions: 9.5 x 5 x 13 inches | Number of pockets: 3 | Age range: Not listed | Weight: 1.8 pounds | Water bottle holders: 2 | Price at time of publication: $155 Two side pockets hold water bottles and a large internal pocket keeps folders and notebooks together. In addition, the backpack’s surface material is waterproof, preventing damage to precious items inside. Dimensions: 13.4 x 17 x 6.6 inches | Number of pockets: 3 | Age range: Youth | Weight: 1.08 pounds | Water bottle holders: 2 | Price at time of publication: $32 Parents and caregivers will appreciate the backpack’s safety whistle that’s attached to the sternum strap, and reflective accents for visibility. A mesh panel in the back provides a more comfortable fit, while the backpack’s low weight makes it easier to carry for younger members of the family. Dimensions: 14.96 x 10.24 x 2.56 inches | Number of pockets: 3 | Age range: Not listed (youth) | Weight: 11 ounces | Water bottle holders: 2 | Price at time of publication: $60 There are several zippered pockets and smaller compartments, including a front-lined pocket that is sized just right for a cell phone. The bag is made from high-quality durable materials, features reflective trim for visibility, and measures 18 x 12.5 x 9 inches. Dimensions: 9 x 12.5 x 19 inches | Number of pockets: 7 | Age range: Not listed | Weight: Not listed | Water bottle holders: 2 | Price at time of publication: $55
What to Look for in a Backpack for Kids
Durability
Your child’s backpack will take a beating over the course of a school year, so if you want one that will last them from the fall to the summer (and possibly beyond), look for one that’s made from quality materials. Check the zippers to make sure they’re securely sewn on and make sure the straps are thick and won’t flatten or fray over time. Also, since your child’s backpack will inevitably get dirty, especially if your child is younger, look for one that can be cleaned in the washing machine.
Ergonomics and Size
Consider your child’s height and weight when choosing a backpack to ensure you’re getting one that is ergonomically appropriate. “The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a child’s backpack weigh no more than 10% to 20% of their body weight,” says Dr. Reilly. “This is typically less than 10 pounds for the average elementary school student, 15 pounds for the average middle school student, and 20 pounds for the average high school student. Students often get an influx of homework and textbooks at the start of middle school, making them increasingly likely to overload their backpacks.” Additionally, the National Safety Council says a child’s backpack should not be wider than their torso and should hang no lower than 4 inches below the waist. An ideal backpack has adjustable padded straps that help to distribute the weight evenly, whether your child is carrying a single book and a lunch box or several books, a laptop, and notebooks. However, this may change if a child is injured. “If your child has an injury or back pain, they may be encouraged by their doctor to get a rolling backpack, have an extra set of books at home to avoid having to carry books from school to home, and/or ask their teacher for extra time to drop off and collect their books from their lockers or classrooms,” Dr. Reilly tells Verywell Family.
Functionality
Your child may be focused on the style of their backpack, but you should also pay attention to its general functionality. Make sure it has enough pockets and compartments that are large enough to hold all their supplies and keep them organized. Also, if you plan to use the bag for more than just school, like for hiking or travel, check the materials it’s made of to ensure it can hold up to additional activities. Overall, you want the backpack to support your kiddo during any part of their day. “It is best to buy lightweight backpacks with two wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back for comfort,” Dr. Reily says.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer and mom to a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old. She has personal experience in researching and purchasing a variety of children’s products and key considerations she used when selecting these recommendations include design, age appropriateness, and user reviews. Besides the practical aspects, sending your child into kindergarten with a backpack is a meaningful gesture. It shows them that they are a “real” school kid, and it’s the first step in them learning to take responsibility for their belongings. You’ll want to pick a backpack that fits your kindergartner’s body. A backpack that is too large can make it difficult for your child to wear it comfortably. A backpack that has adjustable straps is essential since you want their backpack to grow with them as much as possible. Selecting a backpack that is machine washable is very helpful as well, as you can expect lots of messes in those early years. L.L. Bean backpacks come in many styles and colors, along with rollers and traditional backpacks. Your child may be able to keep their backpack for a few years before needing a bigger size. The company’s backpacks have helpful features like roomy compartments for carrying extra clothes and snacks, reflective trim for safety, and organizers for school supplies. At $155 for the smallest size, the Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack is the priciest bag we selected. However, we think it’s worth it since it’s great not only for school but for swim lessons, dance class, trips to the playground, and more, so your family’s sure to get good use out of it. Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer for Verywell Family with nearly eight years of experience under her belt. Katrina’s background in journalism began at an Emmy award-winning news station in Oklahoma before she obtained her B.A. in professional media. Her love for service journalism, and helping others led to her commerce writing role, which allows her to research and recommend the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. When she’s not writing and researching, you’ll likely find her outdoors with her husband and their thrill-seeking toddler son.
