Back to School: How to Pick the Right Backpack

Submitted by WHIZ intern Maddie Luebkert

Zanesville, OH- One of the more exciting parts of going back to school for students can be finding the perfect, new back pack.

When it comes to choosing a backpack, most students are likely concerned with the latest trends and styles. But doctors recommend that parents take more than just those factors into consideration when settling on the right backpack. If the backpack is too heavy or does not fit right, it could cause problems for students.

“When it comes to picking out book bags for kids…I know the style and look for my kids is very important,” Primary Care Physician Caroline Weingart said. “They want a backpack that looks cool. But it’s also good to make sure that there’s a backpack that is going to be safe for their head, neck and shoulders for when they’re carrying a heavier load.”

Weingart suggests that parents keep a look out for backpacks that have adjustable shoulder straps. To help distribute the weight more evenly, Weingart recommends a backpack with a chest or waist strap as well. Backpacks in general should not weigh more than 15% of a child’s body weight. For a 100 pound child, a backpack should not weigh more than 15 pounds according to Weingart.

“Well if a backpack is ever causing any sort of pain, then it’s important to talk to their doctor because that should not happen,” Weingart said. “So that’s the biggest thing is having back pain or neck pain or shoulder pain because maybe the backpack is not being worn properly or it’s just too heavy for the child.”

When shopping for a backpack, keep in mind more than just the latest trends. Look into good-fitting, lightweight backpacks to prevent back pain.