How to choose your child’s school bag

The new school year is fast approaching, bringing the excitement of getting little ones’ things ready. From notebooks and pencils to treasures found in the playground, finding the ideal companion for your schoolchild is an important moment.

Discover our ultimate guide to choosing the perfect school bag, from the first day of nursery to primary school adventures.

Why is choosing the right school bag so important?

A school bag is much more than an accessory: it’s your child’s first truly "grown-up" companion. It symbolises their independence and accompanies them through days of learning and play.

An accessory designed for the school day

Between busy days, walks to school and activities, a school bag needs to withstand every adventure. At Bonton, we design sturdy, lightweight pieces full of cheer to bring joy to the back-to-school routine.

What size and style of school bag should you choose?

The most important factor when choosing a school bag is your child’s build. It should be neither too wide nor hang too low on their back.

• Starting nursery: Choose a small, lightweight bag with room for a comforter, a snack and a little home–school notebook. It’s the perfect time to discover our adorable school bags designed for little ones.
• Starting primary school: Choose a school bag or a backpack for children who want to feel grown-up, with structured compartments to organise A4 notebooks and a pencil case easily.

What practical features make the perfect school bag?

To make life easier for children (and parents in the morning!), certain details make all the difference:

• Comfortable braces: Adjustable, padded braces are essential for distributing weight evenly across the shoulders.
• Lightweight design: An empty school bag should be as light as possible to avoid putting extra weight on your child’s back.
• Easy-to-use fastenings: Simple buckles or smooth zips let children open and close their bags independently.

Accessorising a school bag: the details that make all the difference

Once you’ve found the ideal bag, it’s time for the details that make it unique and instantly recognisable!

• Water bottle and snack: Don’t forget to pop in a colourful lunch bag with their favourite treat for the afternoon break.
• A personal touch: Attach a fun keyring or a pompom to the main zip so your child can easily spot their bag on the classroom coat rack.
• Little back-to-school extras: Add a pretty matching pencil case for their pencils, plus a small umbrella in the side pocket for the first autumn showers.

How to look after a school bag so it lasts all year

A school bag goes on countless adventures on the way to school, so it needs a little care from time to time.

• Regular cleaning: Empty the bag completely once a week and shake out the crumbs.
• For stains: Use a sponge and a little soapy water. Avoid machine washing, which could damage the school bag’s structure and reinforcements.

By choosing a quality bag, you give your child a durable accessory they’ll be proud to carry day after day.

Explore our school bags now and find the perfect one for your child!