As the time for a child or grandchild's school enrollment approaches, some ask the question: school bag or school backpack, which is the better choice? Actually, there's sometimes a misunderstanding behind this, which we'd like to clarify first.

Today's School Bags are Also School Backpacks

If we look at the carrying system of current school bags, it resembles that of classic backpacks. This is why some people talk about school backpacks when they actually mean the typical school bags (Schulranzen). On the other hand, there are actual school backpacks that differ structurally from school bags. The most noticeable feature of some is that they lack the rigidity that characterizes good school bags.

Whether this is a disadvantage and how school bags differ from school backpacks is what we will now examine in detail.

School Bags are the Classic Choice for Primary Schoolers

Modern school bags, although carried on the back with shoulder straps like a backpack, differ from normal backpacks in several ways:

• Ergonomically (Link to /school-bag-ergonomics/) shaped, stable back padding for optimal load distribution – optimized for carrying books, notebooks, lunch boxes, water bottles, and other school supplies.
• Stable shell and side walls that keep the bag in shape even when loaded, ensuring ideal weight distribution.
• Large compartments and pockets for organization and easy accessibility.

In other aspects, good school bags and school backpacks are comparable:

• Height-adjustable, padded shoulder straps for a perfect fit.
• Hip belt and chest strap for additional stability.
• Integrated reflector system for better visibility in traffic.
• Robust, waterproof material.

The unique features of school bags are specifically tailored to the needs of primary school-aged children. A good school bag not only protects their sensitive backs but also simplifies the school day.

Therefore, most school bags have a stable basic frame, which gives the bag its classic box shape. This shape and the well-thought-out compartment division allow for optimal weight distribution, preventing postural damage. Additionally, documents are securely stored in the school bag with its sturdy base, lid, and side walls.

School Backpacks are Cool, but Not Always the Best Choice

School backpacks are generally more flexible in material than school bags and usually have a lower empty weight. They offer similar internal divisions as a school bag. Price-wise, high-quality bags and backpacks are roughly equivalent.

As children get older – usually when transitioning to secondary school – many want a cool backpack instead of the classic school bag. Backpacks are considered chic and casual in that age group. However, caution is advised here: Normal backpacks are often not designed for the specific requirements of schoolchildren. They often lack the necessary stability, ergonomic shape, and thoughtful organization.

If the weight is not distributed correctly and the backpack sits uncomfortably on the back, it can lead to postural damage and back pain. Especially during growth phases, healthy posture is particularly important.

Carrying habits also play a significant role: Many children adjust the straps too loosely, so the backpack doesn't sit snugly against the back, putting additional strain on the spine.

These disadvantages are avoided by ergonomic school backpacks specifically developed for schoolchildren, equipped with compression straps, hip fins, individually adjustable shoulder straps, and detachable chest straps. This achieves a close-to-the-body fit and better weight distribution (Link to /how-heavy-should-a-school-bag-be/).

For Primary School Children, the School Bag is Better

Even if trendy backpacks seem tempting - for primary school-aged children, a specially developed school bag is definitely the better choice. With its well-thought-out ergonomics, robust construction, and practical layout, it is the perfect companion for a relaxed start to a successful school career.

• Choose a bag with ergonomically shaped back padding and a stable back plate.
• Look for wide, padded, and length-adjustable straps.
• A hip and chest strap provides additional support and ensures the correct position on the back.
• The carrying system should be adjustable in width to adapt to the broadening shoulders of growing children.
• Reflectors increase safety on the way to school.
• The bag should be robust and waterproof to protect books and notebooks.
• Various compartments make sorting and finding documents and utensils easier.
• The bag should not tip over when filled, and the lid flap should be easy to open and close.
• Let your child try on different models and choose the suitable school bag together.

Correctly Adjusting the School Bag is Crucial

• The bag should fit snugly against the body, with the lower edge roughly at hip level.
• Adjust the shoulder straps so that the shoulders are not pulled upwards.
• Close the hip belt to transfer weight to the hips.
• Close the chest strap for a perfect fit and balance.

Physical Development Must Suit a School Backpack

When transitioning to secondary school, such as Gymnasium or IGS (types of secondary schools), the situation changes. From the 5th grade onwards, when the spine is already more stable after primary school and the muscles are stronger, a switch can be made to a school backpack optimized for the task with a good carrying system.

Why a Different School Bag Anyway?

As parents, we notice that other parents are also bothered by the fact that investing in a new school backpack seems almost automatic when transitioning to secondary school.

It would be more sustainable to be able to use the previous investment longer – ideally throughout the entire school career. When asked, the main argument against this is refined taste over the years: Who wants to wear a Lillifee (popular character) design on their bag at 16? Or Transformers?

At that point, we started thinking: Why do we change the entire bag and not just the design? So that 6-year-olds can find their desired decoration just as much as 17-year-olds. This will be just one of many innovations that we are implementing with our family business in our new innovative school bag. We are currently working hard to bring it to stores soon.

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