Top-loaded bags come in either zipper or strap closure: the former offers more security; the latter usually offers a bit more room for items. Messenger bags are popular and stylish with a single strap. The disadvantages are that they become bulky and awkward to wear when they’re full and that the weight is unevenly distributed on your shoulders, which is not good for your back. Wheeled bags are great for transporting heavy books; however, even when empty, they are heavier than other bags because of their wheels, so make sure you’re able to lift it without straining your back. Forewarning: a wheeled backpack will not fit in your locker, and some schools do not allow wheeled backpacks, so check to make sure. Classic, full-zipper bags offer easy access to your contents and are the most versatile for school use.
Most backpack companies provide an online size chart, but you should try on several backpacks to see what size fits your unique body. It’s not advisable to carry more than 15% of your body weight on your back, so keep this in mind when looking at backpack sizes and imagining how much you’ll be packing. [2] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
What do you intend to pack in your backpack and what do you intend to carry? Big books? Your lunch? A water bottle? Do you intend to pack your laptop in your backpack? If so, look for bags with a laptop compartment, which usually provides added cushioning. Do you want built-in compartments for your pens/cellphone/MP3 player/sunglasses?
Wide, padded shoulder straps. Relieves strain on your shoulders. Moreover, make sure the straps are adjustable. (Breathable) Back padding. Relieves pressure on your lower back. Hip padding. Helps balance the backpack and take some pressure off your back by distributing it to your hips. Chest and/or hip belt. Relieves pressure from your lower back and helps you to stand up straight.
Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, are lightweight and waterproof fabric, so they will hold up best against the elements. Natural fibers, such as hemp, are more environmentally sustainable, but do not offer much protection against the elements. [5] X Research source Leather gains “character” as it ages, but is heavier and less flexible.
How many/What kind of classes do you have? Do you have gym today? Will you be staying late for a club and/or sports activity after school?
Binder. The binder option is good because you can divide it into sections and easily add and remove paper. Moreover, the binder protects the edges of the pages and sometimes even has a built-in folder. The drawbacks of the binder are that it can be bulky and space-consuming, the binder rings sometimes rips through your paper, and it can be awkward to write in if you’re left-handed. Notebooks. The notebook option offers flexibility with 1-, 3-, or 5-subject spiral-bound or composition notebooks, so you have the ability to consolidate your backpack space. At the very least, though, you’ll want a separate section/notebook for each class’s notes. Paper type. Teacher preferences vary, however, most high school teachers do not care if you take notes or submit written assignments on wide or college ruled paper. If you have the means, when buying loose leaf paper consider paper with reinforced holes to avoid accidental tears.
Black or blue ink is the safest investment because some teachers don’t allow you to use colored gel pens on tests.
Look for a roll-out whiteout, as liquid whiteout can get messy and takes time to dry.
A mechanical pencil does not require sharpening, but you have to carry around lead refills. A mechanical pencil sometimes “jams,” and the last bit of lead is difficult to use because it tends to slip out of the shaft. A wooden pencil requires sharpening (sometimes frequently), so you’ll need to carry a sharpener or use your classroom’s electrical sharpener. A wooden pencil is more difficult to keep sharp because the tip tends to break off with pressure. Regardless of which type of pencil you choose, purchase a separate eraser that erases cleanly because the erasers on most pencils tend to get streaky.
If you do purchase a calculator, make sure it is a graphing calculator.
If you have other compartments, sometimes there are places especially designed for these items, so utilize those to save space and to help distribute the weight evenly. [8] X Research source Gym clothes could be packed with these items, but it’s better to use a separate, drawstring bag because gym clothes will make your bag smell unfavorably.
Sometimes a backpack has a sleeve for your water bottle. If your lunch doesn’t fit with extra room, it’s better to carry it than risk having to eat bruised or smushed food. Alternatively, many schools have cafeterias, so you could always purchase your meal there. Often a backpack will have a compartment for your cellphone and headphones/earbuds.
Do you need to pack athletic/spare clothes for gym or an extracurricular activity? If so, consider a drawstring bag for these. Did you pack a big enough lunch if you’re staying late at school? Did you pack your important school papers, such as your class schedule, immunization form, or any miscellaneous permission forms? Do you want to bring a ball or frisbee for lunch or after school? What’s the weather going to be like? Do you need to bring an umbrella or a rain jacket? Do you know what time your bus arrives at your stop? Do you have some extra money in case you need to call a cab?
