A school bag is carried every day for years, so it is worth choosing carefully. A bag that is too big or badly fitted can strain a child's back and shoulders. Here is what to look for.
Keep it light
India's School Bag Policy 2020 recommends that a school bag should weigh no more than about 10% of the child's body weight, including books. A child who weighs 30 kg should carry around 3 kg or less.
- Choose a bag that is light even when empty.
- Pack only what is needed for the day, and use the school locker if there is one.
- Put the heaviest books in the compartment closest to the back.
Pick the right size
The bag should not be wider than your child's back or hang more than a few centimetres below the waist. A bag that is too big gets filled, and becomes too heavy.
Comfort features
- Two wide, padded shoulder straps, adjusted so the bag sits close to the back. Discourage carrying it on one shoulder.
- A padded back panel.
- A chest strap for older children carrying more books.
Compartments for books and tiffin
Separate compartments keep books flat and organised, and stop a leaking tiffin or water bottle from spoiling notebooks. Side bottle pockets are a must.
Built for rain and rough use
School bags are dropped, dragged and rained on. Look for strong stitching, sturdy zips, a solid base and water-resistant fabric. A rain cover is very useful in the monsoon.
For college students
College students usually carry a laptop or tablet. Choose a backpack with a padded laptop compartment, a charger pocket and a comfortable, adjustable fit.
Quick checklist
- Bag weight plus books under 10% of body weight
- Not wider than the back or far below the waist
- Two padded straps and a padded back
- Separate pockets for books, tiffin and bottle
- Strong zips, water-resistant fabric, rain cover
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