What should I look for in a toddler backpack?

Claire is currently obsessed with Princess Elsa and bright pink. If she had her way, everything will be pink and have Elsa on it. She has a Frozen dress, a Frozen water bottle and a Princess Elsa jumper. I drew the line at a Frozen backpack. Mostly because I was sick of Elsa and and I can’t pass it down to her brother when she is done with it.

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It’s never a good idea to give your toddler free reign to choose their own backpack anyway. Because not all backpacks are good quality and not all fit well. A toddler backpack is more a practical item than a toy for your little ones so we need to choose wisely. Here are some of the most important features to look for when buying your child their first backpack:

Size

The first thing to look at is the dimensions of the backpack. It doesn’t matter if it can’t fit an A4 folder. If it’s too big for your toddler, it’s too big. Toddlers are not strong enough to carry a large bag. They will topple over. The ideal size of your toddler backpack is dependent on their height and build. As a rule of thumb, the bottom of the backpack should not sit lower than your child’s hip bones. They should be able to comfortably sit while having the backpack on. Check out my article on how to quickly measure your child for a backpack. There is even a table you can use as a guide depending on your child’s age.

Weight

It’s not just the size, it’s also the weight. When you move your child’s backpack after he or she drops it at the door does it feel like it contains 40 pounds of rocks? There are many negative effects that extra weight can have on a child’s still-developing body, including poor posture and increased risk of injury. The American Chiropractic Association recommends that children should not carry more than 10% of their body weight in a backpack. Go for the lightest backpack possible so that it will still be safe for your toddler to carry after they stuff their life’s belongings in it. If you see your child bending forward or leaning backwards when carrying the backpack, it’s too heavy.

Safety features

• Adjustable shoulder straps so you can adjust the straps to the right length. The backpack should sit in the upper middle part of your toddler’s back.
• Adjustable chest or waist strap to help distribute weight evenly across their little back.
• The backpack should be centered on their torso to disperse the load through their spine and avoid discomfort.
• If your child is going to daycare or nursery, a name tag is essential. Buy a bag that has a name tag holder on the inside rather than the outside so that strangers can’t read it. Children tend to trust people who know their name.
• Look for compartments that distribute weight evenly among the backpack. If they are zipped compartments, even better. Pack heavier items closer to the body.
• It has a sturdy, easy-glide zipper. Toddlers can’t deal with fiddly zippers. You know what that means. Tantrum city.
• Some backpacks come with a detachable child leash.

How do I choose a comfortable backpack?

• Wide, padded shoulder straps
• A padded back. Anything without a back pad isn’t great because if they have a pencil that gets loose or a book turns, it can actually jab them in the back.
• The backpack should be large enough to hold all their essentials but not too big that it’s difficult for them to carry around.
• It’s important that the straps and buckles are easy for your child to use, as well.
• Made of material that feels comfortable against their skin and doesn’t chaff.
• Mesh side pockets for water bottles and juice boxes. While this is not a comfort feature, it’s important because who wants a leaky juice box in the bag?

What backpack material is best?

When looking at toddler backpacks, look for ones made out of durable material like nylon or polyester. They are easier to clean.  While cotton is a natural fiber and can be softer on the skin, it absorbs all stains and is hard to wash and dry. Water-resistant backpacks are made of lighter and stronger fabric than regular ones and don’t cost much more. This Noohoo backpack is made from waterproof Neoprene – lightweight, shock-proof, scratch-proof, easy-clean, and of course, waterproof.

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Consider Your Child’s Personal Style

It’s important to consider your child’s personal style while looking for a toddler backpack. This is especially the case when you have a bossy 3-year-old who is trying to exert their individuality. Fortunately, toddler backpacks come in all colors and they often have the popular cartoon or movie character on them. This makes it easy for you to find a backpack that your child will love.

Price

Toddler backpacks can cost a bundle but there’s no need to spend more than $20-$30 on a toddler backpack. They grow out of them so quickly! There are plenty of good quality affordable backpacks around. You just need to weed out the bad ones.

How do you know if a backpack is good quality?

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices of backpacks, go through this checklist to know if the backpack is good quality:

• Fabric – is it made of water-resistant, light, durable nylon or polyester? Is it machine-washable? Do you like the feel of it on your skin?
• Zippers – look for easy-glide and YKK zippers that won’t snag and will last longer.
• Shoulder straps – they need to be padded. And are the straps adjustable?
• Chest or waist strap – this is almost a necessity for toddlers so the shoulder straps don’t fall to the side.
• Compartments – the more the better. And if they are zippered, even better.

What about backpacks-on-wheels for toddlers?

For an older child, backpack on wheels might be the answer to carrying a heavier load. For toddlers, rolling backpacks are a big no-no. Toddlers just don’t have the skills yet to pull a backpack on wheels safely.

To wrap up

There a so many toddler backpacks on the market but you’ll need to find one that is right for your toddler. I hope this article helped you make the right choice.