Backpacks have become as much a part of going to school as lunch money. All kids, even those in pre-school, seem to need a backpack to cart around their stuff. When a child enters middle school, high school and beyond, they typically need more room than most average backpacks afford. With laptop computers, heavy textbooks and binders filled with notes, messenger bags really are a better fit. They not only hold all the gear a kid needs but they look cool too.
It’s not unusual for a teenager to complain about leg, back or arm pain. This is particularly true if they are lugging around a heavy backpack. The weight of the pack can put a strain on many of their muscles. Backpacks are designed to be carried squarely on the back, which means all that weight has to be supported by the back. Messenger bags are different as they allow the child to swing the handle over one shoulder and carry the bag itself next to their hip.
Styles are across the board when it comes to these carryalls. When you are looking for one, it’s a good idea to consider exactly what the child is going to be loading it up with. If they do need to take their laptop computer to school, look at messenger bags that have a compartment made just for this. Although you can throw a laptop into any bag, if it’s not snugly in there, it can rattle around causing damage. A messenger bag with a pouch made specifically for laptops is your best bet.
Some of these bags come with an assortment of inside pockets all designed to do something different. You may find a cell phone holder, a place to keep your student ID and even a little secret pouch for some extra change in some messenger bags. Although it’s a great idea to have these features, it can actually increase the price of the bag, so decide if the extra money is warranted.
Colors are another story. It seems that every child has their own favorite shade. It’s a nice idea to look only at messenger begs in your child’s current color preference, but if they are still quite young bear in mind that can change quickly. Instead, think about getting a messenger bag in a neutral tone such as green, blue, red or taupe. This way it will outlast your child’s current favorite.
Adults can use these too. If you find yourself carting your laptop or documents back and forth to work each day, messenger bags are a good alternative to a briefcase. They are less formal and have enough room in them for a water bottle and even a few healthy snacks to keep you away from the vending machine. Overall they are a useful item for just about everyone in the family.