Photo by Ray Piedra Backpacks aren’t all about function — they can be stylish too. If your teen has fashion bravado, they can go for designs with sequins, customizable patches, and holographic finishes. For an effortlessly hip look, choose backpacks with top handle straps that give off a cool-girl vibe. This style is also easier on the shoulders and back than carrying it over one shoulder.
Size
In this era of hybrid schooling and ever-increasing extracurricular activities, your kids’ backpacks must carry enough to fit their growing needs. That’s why it’s essential to look at the dimensions and check whether the main compartment is big enough for their devices, textbooks, and other supplies. Look for a spacious main compartment and smart pockets (interior and exterior) that make it easy to organize their belongings. And make sure the straps are comfortable and well-padded. If your teen is not used to wearing a backpack, it might take some time to adjust to the weight and feel of one. A durable backpack like those at Journeys is a must; the best choice is neoprene. It’s water-resistant and sturdy, so your teen can safely use it on rainy days or at the pool. And it’s a good idea to choose the most durable backpack for an active lifestyle and heavy-duty travel. If you’re going on a backpacking trip, consider choosing a pack with a 65-liter capacity or more. This size is ideal for carrying a sleeping bag, pad, clothes, and personal items on a multiday backpacking trek.
Material
If your kid has to haul a full backpack of books all day, they want their bag to be comfortable. They need padded straps that don’t cut into their shoulders, and the pack should be water-resistant. Look for a backpack with smaller pockets and a laptop sleeve for their supplies. Some packs include a small pouch for a water bottle and a snack. If they’re student-athletes, they may need to carry extra gear for their sport. Ensure they get a bag that fits their equipment and has ergonomically designed padded straps, and its compartments are spacious enough for multiple items. Teenage boys may prefer a more rugged backpack, like one made from abrasion-resistant canvas. Its sturdy construction is backed up with a lifetime warranty. This type of backpack is excellent for kids who like carrying many books for school and extracurriculars. Many high school students have a ton of homework and materials. They also need to lug around a bagged lunch, water bottle, and supplies for their extracurricular activities. A backpack with a large capacity and different compartments will help them stay organized.
Style
The backpack trend has grown so huge that there are dozens of styles to choose from. Some are true classics that stay ageless year after year, while others may be trendy for a season and then fall out of fashion. For longevity, select a style that reflects your aesthetic. For example, a leather backpack with a structured shape and a luscious finish is a good choice for fashionistas who like to carry their accessories polishedly. Alternatively, a colorful backpack in an edgy fabric, such as holographic or sequins, can make you stand out among fellow students.
When choosing a backpack, it’s essential to consider the size of the bag. A backpack that is too big will cause back pain, and it will be hard to keep balanced when complete. On the other hand, a backpack that is too small will only be able to hold some of your supplies, and it may even look unsightly. The best backpacks are proportional to your body and will sit on your hips rather than at the top of your shoulders. It’s also important to check the size of the straps and how comfortable they are. It’s recommended to wear adjustable straps to find the right fit and avoid slipping off your shoulders.
Budget
A backpack is an essential item in any teen’s closet, and it’s a piece that can easily be revamped to fit the latest trends. Whether it’s for school, work, or travel, finding one that’s trendy yet functional is essential. This is especially true for backpacks designed to complement fashion lewks – this is the kind of backpack that will catch the eyes of your fellow millennials and be perfect for Instagramming. It’s also best to go for backpacks with padded straps with waist and chest straps to help distribute the weight of your backpack evenly on your shoulders (and avoid back problems). You can also look for features like a built-in high-vis rain cover, LidLock helmet attachment, and adjustable chest and shoulder pads. The backpack trend resurfaced a few years ago, taking over the streets, runways, and Instagram feeds of influencers and fashionistas worldwide. A backpack is the perfect accessory to elevate casual-chic outfits and make them effortlessly cool. However, your backpack’s size, style, and comfort are equally important. Remember to check out the options available and choose one that is perfect for you.
