It’s spring – which means many parents are on the lookout for the perfect school backpack for their little ones. The wide variety of options and many questions can often feel overwhelming. One question we hear from parents almost daily is: How heavy should a school backpack be?
Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right weight always depends on the child’s size, build, and individual strength. Only by considering these factors together can you determine whether a backpack is too heavy or just right.
School Backpacks and Their Weight
It’s spring – which means parents are on the hunt for the right school backpack for their little ones. The wide selection and numerous questions can often feel overwhelming. One question we hear almost daily from customers is: How heavy should a school backpack be?
We’ll try to approach an answer! Unfortunately, there’s no universally valid response, because the weight of a school backpack must always be considered in relation to the child’s size and build.
We’ve already discussed various brands and models in previous magazine articles. In our online shop as well as in our stores, you’ll always find new models from the school backpack brand ergobag. Even in terms of design and shape, backpacks from different brands differ significantly.
Here, parents should trust their instincts and, above all, involve the children in the decision-making. If the backpack doesn't appeal to the child, parents will likely be back on the hunt for a new one sooner rather than later. Over the course of 9 to 13 school years, that can get expensive. That’s why it’s important that the first backpack becomes a well-loved everyday companion, ideally lasting at least until the end of 4th grade.
Some inspiration can be found in our school backpack checklist.
A much more difficult decision is choosing the right weight and fit. As we now know, weight alone isn’t enough to judge whether a backpack is good or bad. It must always be considered in relation to the child’s physique and the family’s individual expectations for the backpack.
ergobag models range in weight from 650 grams to 1.53 kilograms. For instance, the ergobag cubo light weighs only 780 grams. Instead of the usual Your-Size-System, it uses shoulder strap adjustment for sizing.
So when it comes to weight, parents must always decide based on what’s best for their child. The decision is often highly personal. Another key factor—aside from the backpack’s layout and appearance—is how the child gets to school.
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Is your child driven to school every day?
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Or do they walk a longer distance on their own?
Our Recommendation
Before buying a school backpack, think about which features are most important to you:
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Do you want a backpack with an innovative carrying system that can grow with your child throughout elementary school?
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Is the interior organization and included accessories more important to you?
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Or do you prioritize an especially lightweight backpack?
These criteria should be carefully considered for your child, and you should inform yourself about different brands and models.
Generally speaking, weight is only a critical factor during the first two years of school.
From 3rd grade onwards, most children can easily carry a backpack weighing up to 1.5 kilograms.
For an average-sized child, backpacks weighing 1,000 grams or more are perfectly fine and provide enough space for all school supplies through 4th grade.
For smaller, more delicate children, a lighter backpack is definitely worth considering—for example, the ergobag cubo light.
In general, it’s always a good idea to try on different backpacks and test them out, so you can see directly on the child which model fits best.
Often, parents think their child is too slim or delicate for the “heavier models,” but a practical trial proves otherwise.
If you still have questions about choosing the right school backpack, feel free to contact us!
In the Sakoi Magazine, you’ll find more helpful resources, including our school backpack checklist and a model comparison highlighting the similarities and differences between ergobag models.
Good luck with your search, research, and purchase!
