2008 Consumer Reports for Backpacks

According to July 2008, Consumer's Report, sixth graders especially carry a heavy load in their backpacks due to a lot of homework that many are given. And with that said, comes an excess of heavier books that they must lug around on their backs. The latest Consumer Report continues to say, sixth graders are carrying around approximately 18.4 pounds on their backs daily. Yet, it's not just the sixth graders; you have the little second graders carrying 5.3 pounds and fourth graders carrying 4.6 pounds.

On top of this, the study by Consumer Reports showed that sixth graders were carrying this heavy load up three flights of stairs - complaining of bruises and the heaviness of their books.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should not be carrying no more than 10- 20% of their total weight in their backpacks. Yet, the average percentage for a sixth grader was 17.2%, fourth grader was 5.6%, and 8.6% of a second graders body weight. This study was a small sampling of students from three classes within the same district. Yet, I'm sure you will find this to be true across the nation. Even when my kids were in 6th grade which was about 11-14 years ago, they were having to carry these heavy backpacks. Now, they are 22 and 26 and do complain of back problems

Tips for Buying Backpacks

Buy shoulder straps that our contoured and padded

Look for a backpack that has a waist belt (sternum straps) to help balance the weight on their hips

Look for a padded or mesh back so that it keeps the child more comfortable on warm days

You can find backpacks that have compression straps on the sides which makes it easier for the child to tighten it.

Make sure it is waterproof and colorfast so the color doesn't run onto your child's garment.

Find dual zippers to make it easier to open.

Here are some top backpack brands.

High Sierra Airhead - The price of this backpack is between $35-$45. It has adjustable compression straps, organizer with 3 pockets, water-resistant with a hidden rain hood.

Nike B4.3 XL Mesh Backpack - The price of this backpack is around $40. It has padded shoulder and carry comfort straps. It's waterproof, dual compartments, additional storage with a water bottle compartment. It has a lifetime guarantee with the Nike Logo.

JanSport Air Juice Daypack - This costs about $25. It has comfortable S-curve Airlift straps, waterproof, and organizer compartments.

The North Face Yavapai Backpack - This costs about $75. This is on the high end; however it is well designed with comfortable shoulder straps, sternum and hip straps. It is well ventilated for comfort, along with pockets for organizing. It also has compression straps to keep the load tidy.

Don't forget you could have a back to school tax free holiday coming up soon. For information on this, you can read my recent article on "Back to School Sales Tax Takes a Holiday."

If you cannot find these backpacks in a retail store, just do a search and you will find these backpacks on the Internet.
And while you are searching on the Internet, enjoy Aly Adair's "Back to School Songs and Movies for your Tax Holiday Weekend."