Modern school bags offer adjustable features, expert says

Modern school bags offer a range of features, including expandable compartments, adjustable back sections and rain covers that also serve as reflectors, Moonika Küttim, a senior buyer at Tallinna Kaubamaja, said on ERR’s “Terevisioon” programme.

Küttim said the most important thing was to fasten all the bag’s straps when carrying it, protecting the child’s back and shoulders.

The right bag depends on the child’s age. For a primary school child, she recommended a hard bag that can stand upright without tipping over and opens widely enough to provide an immediate overview of its contents.

Ergonomics are also important. The back section should be supported and padded, and some bags have an adjustable back section. In some models, a ruler is built into the back section, allowing the support to be adjusted to the child’s height.

Chest and hip straps help distribute the weight and prevent the bag from pulling backwards. Shoulder straps should also be padded to prevent them from digging into the child’s shoulders. Küttim said children often put unnecessary items in their bags, so a softer bag is better for the back.

All the straps should be adjusted to the child’s size. Children should also be reminded to fasten every strap and not carry the bag on one shoulder.

Some school bags have additional side locks that allow them to be expanded. Küttim said this could add five litres to the bag’s capacity, which is measured in litres.

Some models include a rain cover that fits over the bag and also functions as a reflector.

Küttim recommended taking the child along when buying a school bag so they can try it on and choose the design. Children’s backs differ in width, so it is worth trying several models. Shoppers can also put items inside the bag in the store to test its actual weight.

She said bags with padded back sections were also necessary for basic school children. The back should be made of breathable material to prevent the child from sweating.

Küttim also showed a bag made up of two separate bags joined by a zip. If a child goes to training or a hobby group after school, they can leave the heavier bag at home, she said.