BACKPACK BUYING GUIDE
One of the most fun (and surprisingly important) decisions you’ll make in your school supply purchasing journey this year will be what kind of book bag to purchase. I’m sure you’ve been nagged by your mom, doctor, or teachers to make sure your backpack isn’t hurting your back – and for good reason! The wrong book bag can actually cause your spine to curve and can hurt your muscles. When purchasing your fall backpack, keep the following things in mind:
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Pick a smaller bag, when possible. A big bag can encourage you to pack more than you need, which can put a strain on your back.
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Focus on carrying weight in a symmetrical way. If you have to wear a single strap bag, don’t wear a large purse. Instead, wear a messenger bag, which will have a larger strap and will prevent our shoulders from being strained. Truly, though, you should wear a backpack. The dual straps distribute weight across your body safely and thicker straps are better for your muscles in general! (Thin straps can actually dig into your muscles… yikes.) Backpacks are safer for your back, and luckily, there are a lot of really cute bags out there!
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Try to be a minimalist. Carry less than ten percent of your body weight and only bring the essentials!
With all of these things in mind, we’ve put together a list of our top 5 favorite backpacks for the 2020-2021 school year. We took into consideration function, fashion, safety, carrying capacity, and even sustainability! Good luck in your shopping journey this fall, Class Trackers!
CLASS TRACKER’S TOP BACKPACKS PICKS FOR 2020
Note: All packs come in multiple colors!
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Herschel backpacks have had a place on the backs of students for a while now, and with good reason. The mid-volume backpack combines a utilitarian look with functionality and ease. The signature red-and-white stripe inside pattern adds a fun touch, while the magnetic strap closures limit any hassle in zipping or tying. On top of that, there’s a 13” laptop sleeve, a media pocket with headphone port, and a front storage pocket with a key clip. It also comes in various colors and styles online. While the price comes in just under $100, Herschel packs last a long time. Herschel Little America Mid-Volume Backpack $99.99 |
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We all know and love the traditional Fjallraven backpacks, but we also know that they can be low on space and not super supportive. Fjallraven heard our concerns and came out with this backpack that still has the familiar Swedish design and colors, now with a spacious main compartment, a 15” laptop sleeve, and exterior pockets. Fjallraven Raven 20 Backpack $90 |
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This classic backpack has served many students well over the course of their high school and college careers with its sustainable padding, mesh pockets, external bungee cord, and adjustability. The North Face knows that back support is important, so they equip their bags with a Flexvent suspension system to fit your back. It also holds 27 liters, so you can pack it tight with everything you need for your busy day. Comes with a fleece-lined 15" laptop sleeve. Women’s Borealis Backpack $89 |
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Another one that’s rather expensive, but definitely worth it. Patagonia backpacks were traditionally made for outdoor activities like hiking and climbing, but they’ve adapted some of their products to work in the classroom or office. This backpack is made of recycled polyester, with a water repellent finish and comes in seven colors. It also features a padded laptop compartment, a drawstring closure, and an exterior zip pocket. Patagonia Arbor 26-Liter Backpack $99 |
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This backpack comes in four color options, combining elements of trendy street style with functionality. There is even an option to personalize it! Features include a laptop sleeve, a main compartment, a smaller front pocket and two side pockets for water bottles. If that wasn’t enough, STATE is an awesome company that donates one backpack to an American child in need for every Kane backpack sold. STATE Bags Bedford Backpack $95 |
What's your favorite backpack? Leave us a comment below!
