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Backpacks Buying Guide

If you want to keep your (or your child's) hands free when walking, have misplaced your pack mule, or need to move a series of items from point A to point B, you may want to utilize the age-old technology of carrying your load on your back. For this, you'll need a backpack.  They are not only good for toting, but are also a much healthier way of transporting your things. Single-strapped bags  and purses  can cause excess strain on your neck and shoulders, putting you at higher risk for spine and muscle problems as well as other injuries. For all the finest in book bag wear, there's lots of styles to choose from.

School Chic

Thanks to ever-growing product advancements, you can now buy a backpack that's designed to keep you comfortable and last for years to come.

Theme Backpacks 

  • Sport your favorite cartoon character: Dora,  Disney,  Barney,  Winnie the Pooh,  Hello Kitty. 
  • Not always well constructed, poorly padded.
  • These bags are typically  designed for children and may not hold a lot.

High-Quality Backpacks 

  • Often made by outdoor sports brands and come with all sorts of features.
  • Helpful compartment has lots of pockets for organizing all your extras.
  • Strongly built.
  • Depending on the brand, these can be quite durable and comfortable.
  • Crumpler  makes very good backpacks.

Leather Backpacks 

  • May be a throwback to another era, but that gives them a bit of classic charm, doesn't it?
  • Less supportive, usually thinner straps.
  • Little or no padding.
  • The leather needs periodic conditioning as well as an initial weatherproofing treatment.

Backpacks on Wheels 

  • Good for kids and adults who pack more than they can carry.
  • Needs to be lifted through snow and over stairs.
  • Learn about the benefits of a rolling bag vs. a standard backpack.
  • Rolling backpacks  have plenty of compartments.

  Single Strap Backpacks 

  • Meant to hug the natural shape of your body.
  • Balances weight well.
  • Stylish.
  • Comes in leather or synthetics.
  • Usually has a comfortable padded strap.
  • Plenty of pockets and compartments.
  • Not good for large loads.

Day Packs

Day packs  are small rugged backpacks that are suitable for short hiking trips and/or trips around campus.  They are extremely popular because of their durability and multi-function use and many come with a warranty-see a couple of stellar recommendations below from The North Face. 

The North Face Surge Laptop Backpack 

This pack is complete with panels that add comfort to your back and tons of pockets. It also has a specially designed pocket to protect your laptop  and power cords wherever you go.

The North Face Vault Backpack 

This heavy duty bag is designed to fit the maximum amount of items inside while still comfortable enough to carry around. Has tons of accessory compartments and a reflective patch for night time.

The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack 

This backpack is equipped with a bungee system to hold large items that won't fit in your bag. Also features a hip belt and adjustable strap to ensure comfort while carrying on your back.

The North Face Women's Isabella Backpack 

This backpack is designed specifically for women's shapes, complete with shorter shoulder straps and a removable hip belt. Also features a bungee system and extra pockets.

The North Face Recon Laptop Backpack 

This pack is designed specifically to save your back while you are carrying it around by using an angled panel to lift the load higher off your back. A safety whistle and reflective patch make this a great hiking or active wear pack.

Stay Safe

No one wants to come home with a sore back or a ripped bag spilling its contents everywhere!  A backpack is going to be your everyday companion. Make sure it can keep up with you.

  • Bags should not hold more than 15% of your body weight or 20 lbs, whichever is smaller.
  • Buy bags with wide straps  to ensure they don't dig into your shoulders.
  • They should have padded backs  to keep items on the inside from poking you.
  • Find two straps  and a waist belt  to evenly distribute the weight, and use them!
  • A bag is only as strong as its zippers --make sure those will last you.
  • Isn't it always better when it's waterproof? 
  • How about tear-proof? 

Major Manufacturers

 

 

 

Related Guides

Camping and Hiking

Accessories

Laptop Bags

Luggage

School Supplies

International Resources

For this resource in your home country, please see:
FR: Cartables et sac à dos, Rentrée Scolaire

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