Bags of Bulacan

What should you consider in school backpacks?
Kids' backpacks are designed specifically for short-torsoed children, and are usually 16" or under in length. Most are not meant for heavy loads of books or other gear, but are instead ideal for clothing, lunches and small accessories.

From daycare to grad school, backpacks are school staples. Students don't have enough hands to tote all of the books and supplies to and from school and between classes. Kid's school backpacks are a status symbol. Carrying the latest backpack is a must with most students.

However, according to the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), physicians see thousands of students each year for back pain caused by carrying bookbags that are too heavy. In one study with American students, six out of 10 students (ages nine to 20) reported chronic back pain related to heavy bookbags. In another study conducted after backpack education, eight of 10 middle-school students who packed their school backpacks and carried them correctly reported less pain and strain in their backs, necks and shoulders. Some manufacturers like Ivar have designed backpacks from the ground up that are intended to distribute weight more evenly across the back of the user, making even heavy loads carry more safely.

It is recommended that loaded school backpacks weigh no more than 10 percent to 15 percent of a student's body weight. For example, a child weighing 60 lbs. should not carry a backpack exceeding 9 lbs. An older student weighing 100 lbs. can safely carry a backpack weighing up to 15 lbs. It is important to choose the best backpack, pack it smart and wear the school backpack correctly.

What is the best way to carry a school backpack?
Always carry a backpack for school correctly. Use both shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly and balance the load. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder strains shoulder and neck muscles. Adjust shoulder straps so that the backpack fits snugly against the child's back and does not hang more than four inches below the waist. A school bag that is too loose or hangs too low pulls the child backward and affects balance. Use the chest or waist strap to help distribute the weight load.

If you find that the backpack's weight is too much for your child, consider using a rolling backpack. It serves the same purpose as a regular bookbag, but a rolling backpack can be pulled along on the ground lessening the strain on a child's back and neck.

Be alert for signs of backpack overload, such as struggling when putting on or taking off the backpack or leaning forward when carrying the backpack. And, practice preventive maintenance. Clean the backpack out weekly and make small repairs before they become big repairs.

What is the best way to pack a school backpack?
Even the best back-friendly backpacks must be packed right and tight. Over-packing school bookbags stresses the backpack and, more importantly, strains student muscles. Pack only what is needed. Leave heavy books at school or at home is they are not needed. Load the heaviest items in the back part of the bag closest to the student's back. Packing heavy items in the outside part of the bag impacts balance. Pack and pad items to prevent them from shifting. Place pens, markers and liquids in zipper bags to prevent leaks and spill damage to books and papers. Weigh the backpack if in doubt about how heavy it is.

Although school backpacks, like Jansport, are primarily purchased to carry books and papers to and from class, there are many other ways you can use your backpack. School backpacks are perfect for travel. A child can pack and carry some of their own clothes and travel treats. Wheeled backpacks with shoulder straps offer a choice of ways to carry a backpack when traveling. School backpacks come in handy for outdoor activities and day camps. School bags do double duty as gym bags for sports activities and dance lessons. And, school backpacks are perfect for stashing gear for sleepovers

What features should you consider in buying the best school backpack?
Here are some important factors to look for when selecting bookbags for school:

• A student backpack should be size and age appropriate. A 5 year-old should carry a small backpack rather than a full-sized bookbag. Watch the weight of the empty backpack. The more a bookbag weighs empty, the less the child can stash in it.
• Backpacks should be sturdy and weather-resistant. Ballistic nylon backpacks can take the wear and tear of daily use. Canvas, cordura, duralite, leather, microfiber and PVC are other reliable fabrics for backpacks.
• Self-repairing coil zippers and other fasteners should be rugged and easy to operate.
• Wheel housings should be recessed inside the frame for protection. Wheels that stick out also count as part of the length of the bag for carryon limit.
• Backpack shoulder straps should be adjustable and well-padded. There should also be a waist belt for extra support and to help distribute the weight of the backpack.
• Wheeled backpacks ease the strain of carrying a backpack. (Rolling backpacks are also handy for travel.)
• Separate compartments keep books and paperwork organized and help balance the backpack load.
• If you carry a laptop to class, choose a laptop backpack with a special padded compartment to protect your technology investment.
• Reflective patches increase visibility in inclement weather and at night.