A school backpack is one of the most important purchases you’ll make for the new school year. It’s not just about carrying books — it’s about supporting your child’s posture, keeping their supplies organized, and making sure they’re comfortable during their daily routine.
The right backpack can help prevent aches and pains, last the entire school year, and give your child confidence walking into class each morning. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to choose the perfect backpack for your child in 2025.
Why Backpack Size Matters
Getting the size right is the first step. A backpack that’s too big can throw off balance and cause strain, while one that’s too small will leave your child frustrated when they can’t fit all their essentials.
Recommended sizes by age:
- Preschool & Kindergarten: 12–15 inches tall, 10–15 liters capacity — perfect for a lunchbox, change of clothes, and a folder.
- Elementary School: 15–17 inches tall, 20–24 liters capacity — enough room for books, lunch, and basic school supplies.
- Middle & High School: 17–19 inches tall, 25–30 liters capacity — large enough for binders, tech, sports gear, and extra layers for after-school activities.
Fit tip: The bottom of the backpack should sit no lower than the waistline and should be snug against the back, not sagging away from it.
Comfort Features: Make Every Step Easier
Comfort is crucial, especially if your child walks to school or has multiple classes to carry supplies to.
Look for:
- Wide, padded shoulder straps: Narrow straps can dig into shoulders, causing discomfort over time.
- Padded back panel: Adds structure, support, and cushioning against books or tech inside.
- Adjustable straps: Allows for a custom fit as your child grows during the school year.
- Chest or waist straps: Helps balance weight evenly, especially when carrying heavier loads like laptops or sports equipment.
A backpack without proper support can lead to poor posture, so investing in comfort is just as important as style.
Durability: Built to Last the School Year
Backpacks get a lot of use — and abuse — during the year. They’re dropped on playgrounds, stuffed into lockers, tossed on buses, and exposed to weather.
Key durability features to check:
- Material: Polyester and nylon are lightweight yet resistant to tearing.
- Water resistance: Keeps items safe during rainy walks or unexpected spills.
- Reinforced stitching: Especially where straps connect to the bag.
- Quality zippers: Should glide smoothly without catching or splitting.
- Reinforced base: Prevents wear and sagging from heavy loads.
Buying a higher-quality backpack can save you from needing a mid-year replacement.
Organization: Keep the Chaos Under Control
A backpack with smart storage can help your child find what they need quickly and protect important items from damage.
Recommended compartments:
- Large main compartment: For books, binders, and folders.
- Secondary compartment: Ideal for lunch, gym clothes, or smaller items.
- Front zip pocket: Perfect for pencils, calculators, or a small snack.
- Side mesh pockets: For water bottles or sports drinks.
- Padded tech sleeve: Protects laptops or tablets from bumps.
Teaching your child to use each section can prevent the “black hole” effect where everything ends up at the bottom.
Style: Let Personality Shine
Backpacks are also a form of self-expression. Whether your child prefers athletic branding, streetwear-inspired looks, or bold prints, JD Sports carries options to match every style.
Choosing a design they like can make them more excited to carry it — and more likely to take care of it throughout the year.
Browse all kids’ backpacks at JD Sports.
Extra Features Worth Considering
Sometimes, it’s the small details that make the biggest difference:
- Reflective elements: Increase visibility for early mornings or after-school activities.
- Insulated pocket: Keeps snacks or drinks cool until lunch.
- Expandable compartments: Give flexibility for days when they need to carry extra gear.
- Easy-grab handles: Handy for quickly picking up the bag or hanging it in a locker.
Backpack Safety and Weight Tips
Even the perfect backpack can cause strain if it’s overloaded.
- Keep weight under 10–15% of your child’s body weight.
- Pack heavier items closest to the back panel.
- Encourage your child to clean out their backpack weekly to remove unnecessary items.
- Always use both straps to balance the load.
Our Top Picks for 2025
For younger students:
- adidas mini backpacks — compact, lightweight, easy to carry
- Nike small backpacks — simple compartments, durable design
For older students:
- adidas Originals Classic Backpack — multiple compartments, laptop sleeve, bold branding
- Nike Elite Backpack — large capacity, padded straps, reinforced base
The Bottom Line
A backpack is an everyday essential that deserves as much thought as any other part of your child’s school gear. By considering size, comfort, durability, organization, style, and special features, you’ll set them up for success from the first bell to the last.
Start the year right by exploring the full selection of kids’ backpacks at JD Sports and finding the perfect fit for your student.
