Backpacks Buying Guide

A Supportive Note

This article is about everyday use backpacks,  for school, work, and the like.  Are you a camper?  You may want to go look at camping backpacks. Or on the other hand, you may also be interested in laptop bags.

Hands Free Lifestyle

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.

Backpack Advancements

My mother recently commented on the vast improvements in modern "schlepping technology" and backpacks are no exception. Read on to learn more than you ever thought possible about the ways to carry your cargo.

The Kids In The Hall
Cartoon  figures always abound in the elementary school halls. No wonder: What could be bad about having Mickey  on your back? Sport your favorite cartoon character: Dora,  Disney,  Barney,  Peanuts,  Winnie the Pooh,  Hello Kitty. .. Not always well constructed, poorly padded. Search for children's backpacks.	Popular among those who have lots to carry, high-quality backpacks,  often made by outdoor sports brands, come with all sorts of features. Helpful compartment has lots of pockets for better organizing all your extras. Strongly built. Depending on the brand, these can be quite durable and comfortable. Backpacks under $50.	Leather backpacks  may be a throwback to another era, but that gives them a bit of classic charm, doesn't it? Classic style. Less supportive, usually thinner straps. Little or no padding. The leather needs periodic conditioning as well as an initial weatherproofing treatment.	Backpacks on wheels  are the newest low-tech technology, like your carry-on suitcase.  Good for kids and adults who pack more than they can carry. Need 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.	Ergonomical, single strap backpacks  are 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.

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 from poking you from the inside.
• Look for light materials to reduce the weight of the bag, letting you bring even more stuff.
• 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 babies will last you.
• Isn't it always better when it's waterproof? 
• How about tearproof?

Major Manufacturers

	Bergans of Norway  Dakota  Dickies  Eagle Creek  Eastpak  Ecko  Jansport	Lodis  Nike  Ogio  Orvis  Puma  Prada  Reebok  Samsonite	Schlesinger  Solo  Speedo  Swiss Army  Tamrac  The North Face  The Sak  Tignanello	Timberland  Tommy Hilfiger  Travelpro  Triple Five Soul  Tumi  Victorinox  Us Luggage  Yak Pak

Related Products

Messenger Bags	Briefcases	Laptop Bags	Duffle Bags	Handbags

External Link

• KidsHealth.org - Helpful tips to use your back safely.