What is the single most expensive back-to-school item on your child’s list?
It likely varies depending on the age of your child, but according to a new report, backpacks are high on the list of back-to-school budget busters.
Most kids insist that a new backpack is required back-to-school material despite what their frugal parents might think. However, if you want a backpack to last a couple of years it pays to invest in a good one. No offense to major discount retailers, but $3 clearance packs don’t often fare well against pricey, high quality bags.
Prices for a high quality backpack can run upwards of $80, which is a lot of money especially if you have multiple children in school. North Face and Lands’ End received the highest marks for backpack durability in a recent test conducted by Consumer Reports. The luxury backpacks also scored well in performance and design categories.
Consumer Reports testers say the bags feature outstanding water resistance and are built tough from the inside out. North Face’s backpacks feature extra padding on the bottom and plenty of cushioning and packing capacity. The duel feature makes the backpack more comfortable for students to wear for extended periods of time.
As for Lands’ End backpacks, Consumer Reports gave them high marks for being able to accommodate the test load of 15 pounds. The backpacks were also graded on their multiple, large compartments and handy zippers.
Before you invest in a new backpack consider the following tips:
Appearance: Don’t give into your child’s plea to purchase a new Scooby-Doo backpack if it looks flimsy. Have your child try it out first. A good backpack should provide a close fit with straps that fit snug on the shoulders.
Size: Grab a few items from different departments in a store and place them in the backpack to test size and comfort. The backpack should be centered on your child’s back and should not fall below the waist. It should also not be so big that your child complains that it hurts toting it around school.
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