Save a Back: Backpack Solutions for Kids With Heavy Loads

A backpack seems like an essential element of back to school shopping and supplies, but in recent years, a lot of commentary has taken place about how heavy a school bag can be, for a child.  Does your child have heavy books to tote around?  Maybe you are concerned, as well. 

The issue shouldn't be as prevalent in early elementary school years, as book sizes are often smaller, and the self contained classroom makes it easy to keep all materials together.  In upper elementary classes, you may see some larger books, while at the middle and high school levels, the Science and History books, especially, seem to increase to huge sizes and weights. 

Rolling Backpack for Kids
Available at Amazon
in 20 different patterns for boys and girls.

A rolling bookbag is a great alternative to the challenge that faces the overloaded tween or teen.  In the case of many styles for girls, a wheeled backpack makes an attractive, and fun school bag.  For boys, it may be seen as a little less cool. 

A messenger bag offers a great alternative to the backpack, in that the cross body style makes it possible to carry the weight a little more evenly distributed.  Also, a messenger can be slung over a single shoulder, tote bag style.  Messenger bag styles for girls are wide and varied, though you may not find a huge selection in the aisles of your big box retailers.  Some have caught on and carry the popular style, but others don't seem to recognize the popularity of the mode.

In terms of boys' book bag styles, at the elementary level, messenger bags with favorite characters are really popular.  At the middle school, opt for something with cool graphics, or plain colors, for a more acceptable style.

High Sierra Messenger Bags
Available in several colors and patterns
for boys and girls, at Amazon.

One strap sling bags are really popular with both boys and girls, but make sure that the measurements will actually accomodate books.

One Strap Sling Backpack, 20"
Available through Amazon

You can find leads on many of these different school bag styles at the Amazon Kids page, and it's really helpful to know that many of the bookbag selections are Amazon Mom eligible, meaning that qualifying orders of $25 or greater can extend prime shipping benefits.