Backpack Buying Guide for Boys and Girls
Ouch.
The shoulder strap broke and the zipper finally jammed for the last time.
That's it - time to run out and grab a new backpack for your boy or girl (if only they wouldn't use it for a game of tug-of-war)! Perhaps the local discount store will have some cheap ones left in the appropriate size.
Or should you think twice and buy something nice? Speaking from years of personal experience, may I suggest that you do a little homework first in order to buy something nice that will last? In so doing you will actually save money in the long run because there's quite a bit more to it than most backpack shoppers realize.
Save money, hassle and precious small backs...
Investing in a good quality pack should result in years of hassle-free use.
Look for durable material, heavy-duty zippers and strong shoulder straps.
If you would like to see your child's pack actually be worn more than dragged, place an emphasis on comfort as well.
Backpack size and comfort: Size the pack properly for the user by considering his or her age, weight and torso length.
Consider all of the items that will need to be carried, being careful not to under size or over size the pack.
Purchase a product that is age appropriate and stylish so that your son or daughter can feel "cool for school.
" Proper fitting, padded shoulder straps and waist belts will help to provide comfort and load stability.
Backpack weight: When sizing and loading a pack, be sure that its total weight is not more than 10-20 percent of the child's body weight to help protect their growing backs.
Take a moment to actually weigh it when loaded with gear - you may be surprised.
If necessary, remove items that aren't truly needed or could be easily carried by hand.
If weight is going to be an issue, consider a pull-along pack with wheels - just make sure that it's allowed at school and that it will also fit in your child's locker.
Some additional thoughts: If your child will be walking or riding a bike to school or to the bus stop, get a backpack that is water-resistant in order to protect any lunches, books and homework on those rainy days.
Finally, why not have a little fun and take your child with you to help pick out the perfect pack? When involved in the decision-making process, they'll typically be more careful and caring for their new boys or girls backpack (sounds good on paper anyway).
Although helpful, these basic tips are just a tip of the iceberg.
By doing your due diligence up front, you will save time, money, hassle (and growing backs) in the long run.
Happy shopping!
The shoulder strap broke and the zipper finally jammed for the last time.
That's it - time to run out and grab a new backpack for your boy or girl (if only they wouldn't use it for a game of tug-of-war)! Perhaps the local discount store will have some cheap ones left in the appropriate size.
Or should you think twice and buy something nice? Speaking from years of personal experience, may I suggest that you do a little homework first in order to buy something nice that will last? In so doing you will actually save money in the long run because there's quite a bit more to it than most backpack shoppers realize.
Save money, hassle and precious small backs...
Investing in a good quality pack should result in years of hassle-free use.
Look for durable material, heavy-duty zippers and strong shoulder straps.
If you would like to see your child's pack actually be worn more than dragged, place an emphasis on comfort as well.
Backpack size and comfort: Size the pack properly for the user by considering his or her age, weight and torso length.
Consider all of the items that will need to be carried, being careful not to under size or over size the pack.
Purchase a product that is age appropriate and stylish so that your son or daughter can feel "cool for school.
" Proper fitting, padded shoulder straps and waist belts will help to provide comfort and load stability.
Backpack weight: When sizing and loading a pack, be sure that its total weight is not more than 10-20 percent of the child's body weight to help protect their growing backs.
Take a moment to actually weigh it when loaded with gear - you may be surprised.
If necessary, remove items that aren't truly needed or could be easily carried by hand.
If weight is going to be an issue, consider a pull-along pack with wheels - just make sure that it's allowed at school and that it will also fit in your child's locker.
Some additional thoughts: If your child will be walking or riding a bike to school or to the bus stop, get a backpack that is water-resistant in order to protect any lunches, books and homework on those rainy days.
Finally, why not have a little fun and take your child with you to help pick out the perfect pack? When involved in the decision-making process, they'll typically be more careful and caring for their new boys or girls backpack (sounds good on paper anyway).
Although helpful, these basic tips are just a tip of the iceberg.
By doing your due diligence up front, you will save time, money, hassle (and growing backs) in the long run.
Happy shopping!