When it comes to finding the perfect backpack for your child, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure that the backpack is both functional and durable. In this article, we will discuss what makes a great kids backpack and how to find the perfect one for your child.
How to buy the perfect backpack for school for your child's needs?
The 5 very simple tips below will ensure all your bases are covered and ensure you make a smart purchase!
So let's get right into it.
What makes an excellent Kids Backpack?
Australia's Best Back Packs for Kids
Functionality
First and foremost, functionality is crucial when it comes to finding a great kids backpack. The backpack should have enough pockets and compartments to keep all of the child's belongings organised. This includes a separate pocket for a water bottle, a place to store a lunch box, and a spot for smaller items like pencils and snacks. The backpack should also be the right size for the child, with adjustable straps that can be customised to fit their body.
Additionally, it's important that the backpack is easy for the child to access and use. Look for backpacks with a simple and intuitive design, with zippers and pockets that are easy for small hands to open and close. It's also a good idea to look for a backpack with a reflective strip or light, which is essential for ensuring the child's safety during early morning or evening commutes.
Comfort
Comfort is crucial when choosing a kids backpack. If it hurts your child's back and shoulders, they will not be able to use it for long periods. You also don't want to cause injury to their body from an uncomfortable backpack design.
The main features to look for in terms of comfort are padding, shape and shoulder straps.
- Backpacks for toddlers and kids with a comfortable back panel and padded shoulder straps distribute the pack's weight across the body evenly.
- Adjustable and padded shoulder straps ensure the backpack sits comfortably, reducing the strain on your back.
- Contoured and padded back panels follow the lower back's natural shape, adding to the comfort of carrying the bag. This shape allows for a natural arch to ensure no back pain.
Appropriately Sized
Finding the perfect sized backpack is a matter of selecting one proportional to your child's body and one that fits all the items they need to carry.
If their backpack is too big or too small in proportion to their torso – the weight won't be appropriately balanced. This imbalance results in back pain or them toppling over.
- The width of a backpack should be relatively proportionate to the child's width.
- The backpack's height should extend from approximately two inches below the shoulder blades to waist level or slightly above the waist.
- When your child sits down with a backpack on, it should not extend higher than their shoulders.
- The pack weight should be less than 15% of your child's body weight
Durable + Waterproof
Backpacks are used year-round, meaning durability is vital! Checking that all features are high quality will ensure your kids back pack endures the test of time.
- Look for a sturdy fabric such as canvas, cotton or nylon - these materials are the most durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear over time.
- Waterproofing is essential for those rainy days and spilt water bottles.
- Ensure zippers are covered with a fabric coating for extra durability in wet weather.
- Check for heavy secure stitching, no fraying separation when seams and handle are tugged firmly.
- Turn inside out to ensure no loose threads, ragged seams, or crooked inconsistent stitching.
Style + Design
Along with the above features, you also want to look for a backpack that suits your child's individual personality - as their backpack is an extension of them!
Choosing a backpack is an exciting activity for your child to be a part of; if they are included in the decision process, they will be proud to carry it.
In conclusion, finding the perfect backpack for your child is an important task that requires careful consideration of various factors such as functionality, durability, and age-appropriateness.
OK, so now you know the factors of what makes up quality kids backpacks
We've got something special for you!
The hard research has already been done for you and we have handpicked the best backpacks for girls and boys Australia has to offer using the criteria outlined above.
The Young Folk Collective
Here at The Young Folk Collective, we have taken all of the 4 key factors outlined above to create the perfect backpack for ages 3 - 9 years.
Price: $59.95 (Size: 40cm high x 31cm wide x 15cm deep.)
Get ready for preschool, school, day trips and everyday adventures with our artistic designed kids backpacks for free-spirited folk.
Extremely durable, including multiple sections, quick grab outside pockets and water-resistant canvas fabric, our backpacks have everything you need to organise your day.
Additionally, our adjustable padded shoulder straps and reflective safety details are ideal, adding extra comfort for the wearer.
With exclusive eye-catching designs created by our favourite Australian artists Harley and J and Rachel Urquhart - our toddler and kids backpacks stand out in a crowd!
We are proud to display our Google 5 Star Rating.
Other Backpack Brands available in Australia:
Our research has determined that the below companies are also producing high-quality backpacks for schools with unique designs.
Price: From $64.95 (Size: 38cm high x 27cm wide x 13cm deep.)
What we love:
Bam Loves Boo are one of our very favourite brands, and for good reasons. All of their products have the environment in mind, with their carefully selected materials of organic cotton and bamboo. Their timeless kids back packs are no exception with the use of organic cotton corduroy giving them a very cool retro look.
Price: From $139 (Size: 38cm high x 27cm wide x 13cm deep.)
What we love:
The Kånken backpack was created as far back as 1978 to help prevent back problems among Swedish school children. Today, 35 years later, Kånken has straightened millions of backs across the globe and has become one of Fjällräven's most beloved products.
Price: $69.95 (Size: 39cm high x 29.5cm wide x 20cm deep.)
What we love:
Penny Scallan designs are made from 100% cotton canvas with water-resistant coating, making them easy to clean with a scratch-proof coating. They also feature a unique small zippered pocket and a drawstring pocket for a drink bottle on another side. Perfect for a unique toddler backpack.
Price: $70 (Size: 30cm high x 24cm wide x 9.5cm deep.)
What we love:
Loma Kids Backpack Mini is perfect for both babies and toddlers. Although it is the smaller one of the 2 Konges Sløjd backpack sizes, it can easily be used by both age groups. This beautiful backpack also has a Bionic Finish Eco coating that gives it a practical water repellent finish.
Marmalade Lion
Price: $74 (Size: 40cm high x 30cm wide x 20cm deep.)
What we love:
Marmalade Lion combines their signature water-resistant Expect-A-Spill fabric and oh so cool designs to create something special. They feature an insulated elastic side pocket, an insulated front lunch box pocket which a specifically designed to take anywhere and everywhere. Their size is great and will last as a great backpack for school for many years.
The Custom Co
Price: $79 (Size: 45cm high x 25cm wide x 14cm deep.)
What we love:
The Custom Co have created some fantastic personalised kids backpacks for Australians. Their unique full print backpacks are a great way for kids to identify their own bags and stand out from the crowd. Perfect school kids and toddler backpacks, sleepovers or sporting groups.
Kids Bags
Price: $44.95 (Size: 35cm high x 22.5cm wide x 12.5cm deep.)
What we love:
Kids Bags certainly have a HUGE selection of backpacks for toddlers up to year 12. We particularly love the the Apple & Mint Fox Little Kid Backpack shown above. It is a sturdy little backpack for toddlers that not only combines clean, modern designs that will easily grow with your child. Totally fashionable and holds everything a busy little toddler needs.
Cath Kidston
Price: $79.95 (Size: 34.5cm high x 24cm wide x 10cm deep.)
What we love:
Born in 1993, British lifestyle label Cath Kidston is certainly a powerhouse in the backpacks for kids category. Designed with vintage charm. Instantly recognisable with their aesthetic fusing whimsical prints and bright colours with functional shapes and thoughtful designs.