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Backpacks and Bags for School 2008

By Michelle Kouzmine, About.com

It's time for backpack shopping. When choosing a backpack, think about your child's needs as well as his fashions sense. Does your kid have to lug around lots of books and supplies? Does your busy girl complain that all her gear is too heavy on her back? Is your kid on the small side but still needs to hull some bits and bobs to school? You need to think about all these factors and more to be sure you find the right bag. It sounds complicated, but I'll show you what bag to choose for what kid.

1. Hurley One And Only Backpack

Back to School Backpacks for Kidszappos.com
The one and only backpack your kid needs, the Hurley One And Only Backpack jams all the have-to-have bells and whistles into one stylish bag. This light-weight backpack is made of durable 600d nylon so your kid can stuff it full without worrying about rips and tears. The laptop compartment is padded to keep his computer safe, and the main cargo pocket has room for all of his books and gear. The padded contour straps distribute weight evenly to protect kids' backs and shoulders. Kids love the extra features like moisture wicking back pads, multiple pockets, MP3 player holder and bottle opener.
Size: 14.5" x 19" x 7"
Perfect for: Older kids who have lots of books and supplies to tote around but are looking for a stylish, functional backpack.

2. JanSport SuperBreak

Back to School Backpacks for Kidsebags.com
JanSport's number one selling backpack is back this year and better than ever. Choose from an enormous array of fun colors and patterns to find a backpack your kid is sure to fall in love with. This bag features padded straps as well as a padded back for superior comfort when toting tons of books, gym clothes and other important gear.
Size: 16.75" x 13" x 8.5"
Perfect for: Kids 8 through HS who like colors and patterns and need to carry large amounts of books and supplies but are not looking for too many extra features.

3. Lands' End FeatherLight Backpack

Back to School Backpacks for Kidslandsend.com
Lighten your kid's load with this new, extra-light backpack by Lands' End. It's 15% lighter than their next lightest pack, yet is still sturdy enough and large enough to tote around all the essentials a kid may need. Both the back and the straps are padded for extra comfort and the sternum strap provides extra support to growing backs.
Size: 18" x 12" x 7"
Perfect for: Grade schoolers who are looking for a comfortable way to comfortably carry loads of school gear.

4. Four Peas School and Toddler Backpacks

Back to School Backpacks for Kidsfourpeasonline.com
Four Peas school and toddler backpacks are getting lots of attention for their fun designs and functionality. Their backpacks are made from 600 denier plus nylon, making them extra-sturdy. The main compartment has ample room for books, gym clothes and more. And, the additional two side pockets are ideal for smaller cargo such as cell phones, water bottles and other essentials. Choose from tons of cool designs from whales to monkeys to palm trees and more. For extra individuality, monogram your kids' backpacks for only $5 each.
Size:
  • 14" x 12" x 5" for the School Backpack
  • 11.25" x 10" x 4" for the Toddler Backpack

Perfect for: Stylish tots and kids who want a individual look.

5. Little Packrat Backpacks

Back to School Backpacks for Kidsebags.com
These uber-cool backpacks for toddlers pack a ton of style into a wee-little bag. Little Packrat backpacks utilize simple graphics, cool color combinations and a dash of 3-D imaging to create irresistible toddler bags.
Size: Approximately 9" x 9" x 3"
Perfect for: Preschoolers and younger kids whose parents are looking for something special.

6. L.L.Bean Original Book Pack

Back to School Backpacks for Kidsllbean.com
L.L. Bean's original backpack is still their best. Loaded with features like: a key clip; an organizer panel; a place for lunch money or small treasures; 3M Scotchlite reflective material on both front and straps.
Size: 16"H x 13"W x 5"D
Perfect for: Kids 7 and older.

7. Crocs Kids Backpack 30014

Back to School Backpacks for KidsShoebuy.com
Get funky with this brightly colored backpack by Crocs Kids. This sturdy, yet roomy backpack has all the pockets and dividers your kids need to stay organized for school. Kids love the extra features like MP3 player pocket with headphone porthole and removable cell phone holder. But the coolest thing about the Crocs Kids' backpacks are their molded rubber Jibbitz holes so kids can jazz up their bags with their favorite Jibbitz. Too cool!
Size: 12.5"Hx19.5"Wx9"D
Perfect for: Older kids, tweens and teens with their own sense of style.

8. Dante Beatrix Recycle Eco Backpack

Back to School Backpacks for Kidstuttibella.com
Teach your kid that environmentally friendly fashion can look fierce. This hip bag by Dante Beatrix is made from recycled plastic bottles and sports a biodegradable canvas trim.
Size: 14" x 15" x 5.5"
Perfect for: Kids whose parents know that both style and the environment are important.

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