Just before the first bell of the year rings, come and discover with us what you need to pay attention to before buying a school bag for each school level.

1. Selection by Grade

The size and capacity (in liters - lt) must match the child’s body type so as not to strain their back.

• Kindergarten / Daycare (Up to 12-15 lt): Here the bags are small, lightweight, and mainly fit a water bottle, a lunch box, and a change of clothes. Popular brands in this category are Must, Gim, and Safta with favorite characters (Stitch, Spiderman, Bluey, Peppa Pig).
• Primary School (20 to 30 lt): The demands rise sharply as the first large books and notebooks come into play. Here it is essential to look for bags with more than one compartment, so the weight is distributed properly.
• Middle School - High School (25+ lt): Here design and style take center stage. Students prefer more minimal or streetwear designs. The leading brands at this age are Polo (a classic choice), Vans, and Sprayground for a more "insider" and distinctive style.

2. Selection by Type

Backpacks

They distribute the weight evenly across both shoulders, provided both straps are used correctly.

• Ideal for: Children of any age, especially if the school has stairs or if the route to school has uneven sidewalks.
• Pros: They leave the hands free, make movement easier, and do not place asymmetrical strain on the body.
• Cons: If overloaded, they can strain the child’s lower back and shoulders.

Trolley Bags (With Wheels)

• Ideal for: The first grades of Primary School (1st - 4th) where children are small, but carry many and heavy books.
• Pros: They completely relieve the back and spine from the weight while walking.
• Cons: They are heavier than simple bags (due to the mechanism and wheels). Also, if the school has stairs, the child is forced to carry it with one hand, which causes asymmetrical strain.

Shoulder Bags

They are worn crossbody or on one shoulder, with a single wide strap.

• Ideal for: Older students (Middle School - High School) and mainly for days with a light schedule (e.g. tutoring or foreign languages).
• Pros: They offer very easy and quick access to items (you don’t need to take off the bag to open a zipper) and have a more "casual" style.
• Cons: All the weight falls on one side of the body. They are by no means recommended for everyday use in Primary School with heavy books, as they can affect posture.

3. Extra Features

• Anatomical Back: Perhaps the most important filter for elementary school bags. Look for a reinforced back with soft, breathable material that absorbs shocks and protects the body from the corners of books.
• Bottle Holder: External side pockets (usually mesh) are a lifesaver. If the bottle leaks, the water will not wet the books and notebooks inside the bag.
• Wide & Adjustable Straps: The straps should be padded and adjustable, so the bag fits high on the back and does not "hang" backward.

➡ See also: All school supplies by grade.