How to Pack a School Bag

Part of the excitement of going back to school is purchasing school supplies and putting them in a new school bag. Of course you want the bag to be stylish, but there are some other things you should consider as you pack your school bag.

Instructions

1. Choose a bag that is appropriate for your size. Also look for one with sturdy, padded straps that adjust easily to fit your body. Pick a bag made of a durable fabric. Make sure the zippers open and close easily.

2. Buy a bag with extra pockets. It's a great way to keep your stuff organized.

3. Pack as light as possible. Remember the school bag should weigh no more than 10 to 15 percent of your body weight in order to avoid chronic back pain. If you find yourself struggling to pick the bag up, it's too heavy.

4. Distribute the weight as evenly as possible throughout the bag. Wear or carry the school bag snugly against your body. Use both straps if it is a backpack. Don't let the bag hang more than four inches below your waist.

5. Put the heaviest books in the section of the bag that rides closest to the body. Load the entire school bag so that the contents don't shift and move around.

6. Place your pens, pencils, markers and other small items in a plastic pencil bag inside the backpack. That way they can be located easily. The plastic bag also protects against spills and keeps ink from getting inside the school bag.

7. Clean out your bag on a regular basis. Get rid of any trash or non-essential items you find in the bag.