The Best Backpacks for Preschool To Make School Fun for Kids
If you’re a parent, you’re probably aware of how picky kids can get when it comes to backpacks, especially preschoolers. There’s a lot of thought that goes into picking a backpack for a preschooler, especially because you don’t want your little one to be carrying too much weight. You want something that is lightweight, durable, and stylish all at the same time. Luckily, there are countless options of backpacks for preschoolers for you to choose from.
With so many different options available on the market, choosing the most suitable backpack for a preschooler can get tricky. If you are unsure about which one to pick, you can count on these top-rated backpacks for preschoolers of 2024 to make the job easier for you.
Buying Guide: Backpacks for Preschool
Picking the Right Backpack for Preschool
To choose the right backpack for your little one, you should pay attention to the following things.
Shoulder straps and back panel
Shoulder straps that are too narrow can dig into your kid’s shoulders. It’s a good idea to avoid narrow straps and choose wide straps instead. Thick straps help distribute weight evenly by cushioning the weight of the backpack, making it much easier and comfortable to carry the backpack for preschool around. Some shoulder straps come with a mesh covering that absorbs sweat and moisture, eliminating the need to re-adjust the bag every now and then.
Hipbelt
For little ones that carry toys or books in their backpacks, it’s a good idea to look for a bag that comes with a hip belt. A hip belt helps reduce the weight off their shoulders and transfer it onto the hips. A hip belt also stops the bag from shifting or bouncing, helping your child to maintain their balance while they are running around. When tightened, the belt should wrap over your child’s hip bones. It shouldn’t droop down the hips or sit at the waist.
Weight
Putting too much weight on your child’s shoulders can cause physical health issues that can persist throughout childhood. Keep in mind that kids develop their posture at a young age, and putting too much pressure on the back can result in a bad posture. In some cases, this can also cause deformities. A preschooler shouldn’t carry more than 10% of their body weight in their backpack.
To make sure that your child isn’t carrying too much weight, look for a backpack for preschoolers that is made from lightweight materials. Since the things that go into the bag are already going to be heavy, and considering that your child will need to carry the load to the classroom and on stairs, you should make sure that their bag doesn’t add to the weight.
Storage
Though preschoolers don’t need to carry a whole load of books to school, they are required to carry one or two books, along with a lunchbox and maybe some toys. Make sure that the backpack you pick comes with adequate storage capacity to hold your child’s everyday school essentials without getting too heavy. The last thing you’d want is to end up buying a backpack that barely fits anything.
Compartments
Backpacks for preschool come with several clever spaces to stash stuff. These compartments can be used to store all sorts of objects including small toys, geometry boxes, and stationary. When choosing a backpack for preschool, determine what your kid might have to carry, other than books and a lunch box. Most backpacks come with external pockets that can be used to store things like water bottles.
Weather-proofing
In snow, rain, or shine, your kid will still likely need to go to class. To eliminate the chances of the books and other stuff stored in bags getting damaged due to rain and other natural elements, look for a backpack for preschool that comes with waterproof properties. A waterproof bag keeps the inside content dry and nice under typical snow and rain conditions.
Quality
To ensure that the backpack you choose for your little one doesn’t fall apart easily, you should pick one that is made from durable and sturdy materials. The finishing of the backpack should be neat, and the seams shouldn’t be poking out of the material. If you plan to purchase the product online, try to go for the one that comes with a warranty. Other than that, you can read customer reviews and ratings to get a better idea about the product quality.
What Are Backpacks Typically Made From?
Backpacks for preschoolers are made from several materials. Some of the most common types of materials include:
Nylon
Nylon backpacks are usually made from polyurethane coating, PVC, or are coated with silicone. Backpacks made from treated materials are usually more water-resistant. These are also considered as the most durable material for backpacks, since they can withstand daily wear and tear without getting damaged. If you are looking for a backpack for preschool that will last for years, then a backpack made from nylon will be the most suitable option.
Cotton canvas
If you’re looking for a backpack for preschool that is not only sturdy but also fashionable, a backpack made from cotton canvas may be the right choice. Backpacks for preschoolers made from cotton canvas are known to retain their look and feel over time. Keep in mind that these are less breathable and more expensive than nylon backpacks.
PVC fabric
PVC fabric is another durable option for backpacks. Backpacks for preschool made from PVC fabric come in a variety of colors and are usually waterproof. Other than that, depending on the quality of the PVC fabric backpack, it can also be tear-resistant, waterproof, and wear-resistant.
Canvas
Canvas is one of the most popular options among backpacks for preschoolers. It is one of the most lightweight materials for school bags, which makes it a great choice for preschoolers who aren’t capable of carrying too much backpack weight daily. Canvas backpacks are sturdy, and can withstand daily wear and tear without getting damaged. Since canvas is made from recycled materials, it is an environmentally-friendly option.
What Is/Are the Leading Backpacks for Preschool of 2024?
Simple Modern Kids Backpack for School – Best Overall
If you’re looking for a kids backpack that is durable but also very fun to carry for kids, then you should get your hands on the Simple Modern Kids Backpack for School. Made from high-quality polyester, this backpack has been designed to last. Its large capacity has enough space to carry all of your child’s supplies, while not weighing them down.
To ensure comfort, it features padded back straps that help reduce pressure on the back. For storage, it comes with a padded tablet sleeve, two expandable bottle sleeves, a large zip closure front pocket, and a zip-closure stash pocket. Thanks to the reinforced stitching and water-resistant properties, this backpack can take daily wear and tear without getting damaged. This backpack for preschool is the top overall choice on this list because it doesn’t compromise on functionality.
Pros
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
- Easy to clean
- Shoulder straps can be adjusted
Cons
- Storage capacity could’ve been better
Wildkin Kids Backpack – Most Versatile
Next up, the Wildkin Kids Backpack is a 12-inch travel bag that can be used for both school and outdoor trips. Made from premium polyester, this backpack features a sturdy lining on the inside, making this backpack sturdy enough to handle anything. Despite its compact size, this backpack offers a decent storage space. It also comes with a food-safe compartment on the front and side mesh pockets for water bottles.
Available in fun, vibrant colors and patterns, you can easily find the design that your child will like the most. The padded, adjustable shoulder straps it features make it much easier for your little one to carry the load on his back. Cleaning this backpack for preschool should be a breeze and shouldn’t take much effort. It has also been tested rigorously to ensure all materials used conform to the Consumers Products Safety Commission regulations.
Pros
- Available in multiple designs
- Tested for safety
- Multi-functional and versatile
Cons
- The fit is tight
Skip Hop Toddler Backpack – Most Durable
Available in eye-catching, adorable designs, the Skip Hop Toddler Backpack is bound to become your little one’s new favorite. Featuring whimsical details and made from durable materials, this backpack can hold everything a preschooler might need to take to school. It comes with mesh side pockets that can fit a water bottle or a juice box. The front pouch is spacious enough to hold snacks and travel necessities.
The comfy padded straps make it easy to carry this bag on the little shoulders. Since this backpack for preschool comes in three different sizes, you can conveniently pick the one that matches the storage capacity required. It comes with a name tag on the inside to ensure that your child doesn’t lose the bag. Made from safe, phthalate-free materials, this backpack is perfect for preschoolers.
Pros
- Comes in fun, colorful designs
- Roomy main compartment
- Designed to last
Cons
- Straps are too wide
BLUEFAIRY Girls Backpack for Kids – Best Design
If your little one takes their backpack design a bit too seriously, then the Bluefairy Girls Backpack won’t disappoint. Featuring an eye-catching design, this backpack comes in trendy rose red, pink, and purple colors. Designed with nothing but the top materials, this backpack is shock-resistant, dust-resistant, and scratch-resistant. Thanks to the lightweight design, it is very easy and comfortable to carry and comes with a padded back panel and straight-cut padded shoulder strap.
The roomy and spacious design of this backpack for preschool allows your little one to fit their books, lunchbox, and all sorts of other school essentials. It also has multiple storage compartments that can be used to store stuff like stationary and water bottles. The breathable and adjustable straps relieve stress of the shoulders and back, making this backpack comfortable to carry.
Pros
- Features weather-resistant nylon lining
- It is very roomy
- The price is affordable
Cons
- Limited color options
Wildkin Kids Backpack – Best Value
Last but not least, this Wildkin Kids Backpack is a playground approved functional backpack that will serve as a great addition to your little one’s school and travel essentials. Designed to withstand even the roughest environments, this backpack is very tough and durable. The moisture-resistant, nylon lining on the interior protects the contents of the backpack from getting wet in rainy conditions.
For easy identification, this backpack for preschool features a name tag on the inside. The two shoulder straps at the back can be adjusted conveniently according to your child’s liking. The durable handle at the top allows kids to quickly hang this backpack on the wall whenever needed. The zipper closures on both front and back compartment are very durable and ensure that the contents of the backpack remain safe and dry at all times.
Pros
- Very durable and easy to clean
- Comfortable on the shoulders
- Suitable for traveling
Cons
- No bottle holder
People Also Asked
A: The right method to clean the backpack depends on the type of materials it is made from. Some backpacks are machine-washable, while some can only be spot-cleaned. To get a better idea about how to wash your backpack, you should check the wash and care instructions of the specific product.
A: Depending on how the backpack is handled, it may be able to last for up to four years. If you’re preschooler is particularly rough with their backpack, you may find that you need to replace it every year.
A: Regardless of how lightweight the back actually is, your little one should not carry any more than 20% of their body weight in the backpack. Carrying more than this can cause posture issues, back pain, and other health problems.
