School Bags

Think about what needs to go in the bag each day, including books, lunch, stationery and a water bottle. A roomy main compartment and bottle pocket will cover most school days. Older pupils may also need space for a laptop or larger textbooks. Keep the PE kit in a separate gym sack so it doesn’t take over the main compartment.

Black school backpacks are a popular choice because they go with most uniforms and are less likely to show marks. Nike and adidas backpacks add a sporty look, while Hype designs bring in brighter colours and prints. Check the school’s uniform rules before choosing a large logo or bold design.

Empty the bag regularly, clean up spills and remove wet PE kit as soon as possible. Don’t overload it with more books than your child can comfortably carry, as extra weight puts pressure on the base, straps and seams. Keep zips closed when they’re not being used and avoid putting sharp items loose inside the bag.

A backpack spreads the weight across both shoulders and keeps your hands free, making it the best choice for most school days. A zipped tote can work for sixth form or college when there’s less to carry. Messenger bags give quick access to books but place the weight on one shoulder. Use a separate gym sack for PE kit and a holdall for sports matches or overnight trips.

Most school bags are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. Coated fabric, covered zips and a reinforced base can help protect books from light rain and wet ground. For heavy rain, use a backpack rain cover or keep books and electronics inside a waterproof liner. Put wet swimming or PE kit in a separate bag.

A separate PE bag to keep things like muddy shoes, wet clothing and used kit away from books and stationery is never a bad idea. A lightweight gym sack can be carried on its own or packed inside a larger backpack when it’s empty. One backpack may be enough on lighter PE days, but regular training, swimming or sports matches will usually need a separate bag.