Do you have a future first grader at home and feel unsure about choosing the right school bag? Are you hesitating between a school satchel and a backpack and not sure which option is the right one? We bring you an overview of the key selection criteria and the TOP 5 satchels and backpacks for Grade 1 that you simply can’t go wrong with.
Satchel vs. Backpack?
A question many parents struggle with. There is no simple answer, but it is no longer true that a child must start school only with a rigid, box-shaped satchel. The right choice always depends on the child’s height, weight, and body constitution.
To make your decision easier, we present the TOP 5 satchels and backpacks suitable already from Grade 1. With these models, you won’t compromise on proper ergonomics or your child’s health.
What to Look for When Choosing – and Why
Since children’s skeletal systems are still developing at early school age and their bones are partly cartilaginous, the most important criteria include low weight, reinforced construction, and fully adjustable padded shoulder straps. A chest strap and hip belt are also essential components for reducing strain on the back.
Adjustable Back System
As we often mention, proper adjustment of the school bag on your child’s back is crucial for healthy growth. The bag should sit at shoulder level and align with the lower back area. This can be achieved by evenly tightening the shoulder straps and correctly adjusting the ergonomic back system.
If you want the satchel to last as long as possible, we recommend choosing a model with ergonomically shaped “growing” back support — such as the ERGO ADJUSTABLE or GROW system.
2-in-1 – The Best of a Satchel and a Backpack
Classic school backpacks (Core, Cubic, Skate) are recommended from approximately Grade 3, usually from a height of around 130 cm.
At BAAGL, in cooperation with physiotherapists, we have developed two types of backpacks suitable already from Grade 1. If you have a smaller first grader, the key criteria when choosing will be especially low weight, a chest and hip belt, and high-quality padded straps.
For these children, BAAGL designers have developed the ultra-light Airy backpack weighing only 700 g, featuring reinforced back padding and a sturdy base.
The second hybrid model is the new Airy Plus, equipped with an adjustable back system with aluminum reinforcement, a firm base, a removable hip belt, and integrated plastic notebook boards. It offers greater capacity and, thanks to the adjustable back system, is also suitable for taller children.
Again, the key factor is who you are choosing the bag for. If your child is taller (around 130 cm) and fits perfectly into a Core, Skate, or Cubic backpack, you don’t need to worry about making the wrong choice. Just make sure they do not carry unnecessary heavy loads and teach them how to adjust the backpack correctly.
An ergonomic and well-organized classic
• Compact construction with a sturdy base
• Ergonomic “growing” back system
• Magnetic FIDLOCK closure
• Interchangeable decorative patches
• Reflective safety elements
• Durable water-resistant material
• Premium YKK zippers
Featherweight finalists – only 1,100 g
• Lightweight satchel with reinforced body
• Adjustable back system
• Practical flip-open design
• Wide range of designs
• Reflective safety elements
• Durable water-resistant material
• Premium YKK zippers
Maximum comfort and back support
• “Growing” back system (Grow)
• Removable chest and hip belt
• Insulated snack pocket
• Large capacity with low weight
• Reflective safety elements
• Durable water-resistant material
• Interchangeable decorative patches
• Premium YKK zippers
The lightest backpack for first graders
• Weighs only 700 g
• Chest and hip belt for better weight distribution
• Easy magnetic closure
• Compact shape
• Reflective safety elements
• Durable water-resistant material
• Premium YKK zippers
2-in-1 – The Best of a Satchel and a Backpack
• Adjustable “growing” back system
• Integrated notebook boards
• Removable hip belt
• Reinforced back panel and sturdy base
• Reflective safety elements
• Durable water-resistant material
• Interchangeable decorative patches
• Premium YKK zippers
Thanks to this practical guide, you can easily find exactly what you need. For more information, visit www.baagl.com.
