Millions of students around the world are back to their regular schedule but are their backpacks measuring up to their routine? While wearing a backpack does not itself lead to back pain, there are a few important considerations when wearing a backpack as research is ongoing. Let’s start by highlighting the weight of the back, how to use it and considerations for your bag if you’re in the market for a new one.
Start the day by taking only items with you that you require for the day. Students should check with their library if course textbooks are available for use while at school to save the excess weight! Water bottle refill stations are commonly available at many facilities allowing them to fill a bottle on site once they have arrived. Current recommendations suggest that a student’s backpack should be no more than 10-12% of the wearers body weight. See examples below:
| Wearers weight | Backpack weight |
| 50 lbs | 5-6 lbs |
| 75 lbs | 7.5-9 lbs |
| 100 lbs | 10-12 lbs |
While keeping the weight of the bag down certainly can help. Correct use of the back should increase the overall comfort of its use:
- Keep shoulder straps snug keeping the bag close to your back
- Pack heavy items like computers close to your back
- Drop in pockets for water bottles will help keep students hydrated throughout the day
- Consider reflective fabrics attached to the outside of the bag for added visibility during winter months
Lastly here are a few things to consider when you evaluate your current backpack or if you’re looking at getting a new bag.
- Have a padded back that protects the back from objects in the bag
- Use wide padded shoulder straps for increased comfort
- A waist strap can distribute the load to the hips rather than the shoulders
- Compartments help distribute weight and prevent items from shifting
Add Comment