10 best school bags to suit all ages from primary to secondary-2
Jojo Maman Bebe fox backpack: £16, Jojo Maman Bebe
At 26 x 21 x 9cm this small backpack with a friendly fox face - complete with ears and a tail - on the front is the perfect first bag for any child. There is room enough for snacks, a fresh set of clothes and even a favoured toy. The straps are not padded, but they are adjustable and strong.
This was adored by our tester, who is just about to turn four - the "secret face pocket” was perhaps the standout feature for him, while we noted that the fit was snug and comfortable.
Hunter original kids backpack: £40, Hunter
A mini version of the adult backpack, this retains all of the benefits and qualities. It is water resistant with strong, substantial zips with big teeth, in the traditional Hunter colours. Measuring 32cm x 10.5cm x 24.5cm and with a capacity of just over 10 litres, this bag can easily accommodate fresh clothes, a pencil case and a few seasonal accoutrements from wellies, gloves and hats to sunscreen and shades.
Our six-year-old tester looked so smart with this on his back. The straps were easy to adjust and abundantly padded so that there was no digging or pressure even when worn over a thin t-shirt. The texture was lovely too - almost silky to the touch.
There are other colours to choose from including pink, red, black and even multi-coloured featuring Peppa Pig thanks to a collaboration with everyone's favourite happy little hog.
Herschel retreat backpack: £80, Herschel Supply Co
This is big (43 x 30.5 x 15cm) and extremely practical for athletic secondary schoolers who need to tote their sports kit about, as well as the usual stack of books and other paraphernalia required by teenagers.
Our 14-year-old tester gave this two massive thumbs up for a number of reasons. Firstly, for the padded laptop sleeve that is integral to the inside of the backpack which can hold a device measuring up to 15 inches.
The drawstring closure underneath the main cover flap is a really important and appreciated feature mainly in terms of security as children travelling on public transport can be especially vulnerable to pickpockets. On the flipside the hidden magnet fastening allows for easy access while retaining the traditional buckled look. The best part of this big bag is how light it is.
Next animal face rucksack: £16, Next
We were totally charmed by the awesome animal faces print on this backpack, which has a glossy PVC coating - always handy when it comes to cleaning or protection from light rain.
This is a simple piece of kit - no hidden compartment except for a smaller front pocket. Our testers, a handful of girls and boys aged between three and 10 all loved this bag. Measuring 33 x 23 x 13 cm - there is plenty of space in here for a pencil case, snacks and of course, homework!
Cambridge Satchel Company classic leather batchel: £175, Cambridge Satchel Company
This batchel (a satchel with a handle) the most traditional of scholarly accessories. It might seem silly to describe school bags for children as investment pieces, but this - which is by far the priciest of our round up - will last all through secondary school and beyond. The leather is luxurious quality, the craftsmanship beautiful and, if there's a formal uniform policy you could never get into hot water with this on your shoulder.
We plumped for the 15-inch version because it could hold a small laptop. It comes in its own cloth bag which is a grown up, sophisticated touch.
Our 13-year-old tester was especially enamoured with the idea that this could be engraved with one's initials...This suits smart, organised pupils - and will last a lifetime if well looked after.
The verdict: School bags
The Kanken by Fjallraven has everything you could possibly ask for in a schoolbag - and it's good for growing backs. For younger children the Rex London dolly llama backpack is light, simple, fun - and inexpensive.
