Which Backpack is Better?

Backpacks. They come in many different colors and sizes and designs, and all are built to carry your stuff. However, not all backpacks are created equal. If you have a lot of things to carry to and from school everyday, you should think seriously about the different types of bags that are available.

Messenger backpacks are convenient and easy to handle, but they can also cause serious damage to your back, shoulders and neck. Traditional backpacks are easier on your spine, but can be a hassle - especially if you have to move at a breakneck pace to get to your next class. Rolling backpacks are very easy on your back but can cause difficulty when navigating the crowded halls of your schools.

Backpack Option #1 - Messenger Backpacks

I personally prefer the messenger backpack. However, with its single shoulder strap, it is very easy to slip over your head and begin your sprint across the school to your next class. Many messenger backpacks do not zip closed and instead have a flap that Velcros or buckles closed. This makes it easier to lose things if they are not contained in pencil cases or binders - but this can be avoided if things are kept in pencil cases or binders.

Despite this, messenger backpacks may not be your best option. Carrying large loads on one shoulder for a long time could potentially cause muscle spasms, joint pains, strains, aches and migraines. According to the experts, messenger backpacks should hold ten percent or less of your (or your child's) body weight.

If your (or your child's) school supplies separate "at home" and "at school" set of textbooks and all you have to carry is a binder and a few folders, messenger bags may be for you. Otherwise, you may just want to forget it.

Backpack Option #2 - Traditional Backpacks

While sometimes harder to handle than messenger backpacks, traditional two-strap backpacks are easier on your shoulders, neck and back.

Traditional backpacks distribute the weight carried in the backpack across two straps and are better for larger loads, such as textbooks and large binders. As an added bonus, they zip closed and your possessions are less likely to fall out and get lost.

Traditional two-strap backpacks present the same problem as messenger backpacks, however - too much weight can cause back problems. Most two-strap backpacks come equipped with built-in shoulder relief pads, and the pads are also available on-line or in many stores. The experts say that traditional two-strap backpacks should carry no more than fifteen percent of your (or your child's) body weight.

Backpack Option #3 - Rolling Backpacks

Rolling backpacks cause little, if any, back, shoulder and neck strain and are perfect for large binders, heavy textbooks and bulky pencil boxes. However, several schools across America have banned rolling backpacks due to safety hazards and the marks that the wheels leave behind on floors.

Rolling backpacks can be extremely difficult to handle in crowded hallways. People can trip over them as they run to class or they can get caught on corners. There is also the danger of rolling over other students' feet.

Unfortunately, many schools have very strict guidelines on the types of backpacks that you can have, or if you can even carry backpacks. For example, some schools only allow clear backpacks or have banned rolling backpacks. Several schools have gotten rid of backpacks altogether due to gang problems or fire hazards created by pileups of said bags and provide almost all of the supplies that will be needed in class. Be sure to check with your (or your child's) school about guidelines before you purchase a backpack.

Sources:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2002/08/26/earlyshow/living/parenting/main519838.shtml

http://media.www.marshallparthenon.com/media/storage/paper534/news/2007/02/20/News/Heavy.Bags.Influence.Back.Pain-2729646.shtml