When travelling with kids, having a separate kids’ bag may be a better idea than stuffing parents’ and kids’ clothes together. Not only this would lessen the disarray, but would also teach kids to be more independent, organized and more responsible with their things. Finding the ideal luggage for your kid will not be difficult if you consider some things before choosing one.

·         Kid’s age: Kids’ luggage should be chosen keeping their age in mind. While older kids can handle bigger backpacks, suitcases, or uprights, this can be strenuous on a young kid’s back and shoulder and hence, they would need light backpack or wheeled upright.

·         Kid’s choice: Letting kids to participate in selecting their luggage would be helpful as each one will have their own preference about color, pattern or style. Kids will be more enthusiastic about owning their favorite luggage and keen to pack their own stuffs.

·         Usability: Kid’s baggage which comes with many pockets makes it easier to pack the multiple things needed during travel. Outer compartments allow you to pack things which need to be readily accessed.

·         Maintenance: It is sensible to choose lightweight, durable and easy-to-clean luggage for kids. Baggage made from plastic, vinyl and canvas are some of the preferable options for kids. (1)

Luggage Set

Some of the popular types of kid’s luggage are listed below:

Rolling Luggage: Rolling luggage refers to wheeled luggage either with or without retractable handles. The advantage of rolling luggage is that heavy loads feel effortlessly light and children can easily maneuver their luggage without causing much strain on their bodies. Upright rolling suitcase is a type of rolling luggage. One should choose smooth-rolling wheels and robust retractable handles. (2)

Suitcase: Trunki is a popular choice among kid’s luggage. It is a kid-sized suitcase with wheels and pull-strap. This lightweight luggage can be easily pulled by toddlers and preschoolers. They can double up as a ride-on toy when they are exhausted during long walk in the airport. They are generally constructed of sturdy plastics as suitcases for grownups. Pull strap is easy to use for kids or adults. One main disadvantage of Trunki suitcase is that it does not have any outside pockets and hence, it needs to be opened up wholly to access contents. (3)

Samsonite Sammies also has a range of preppy suitcases with animal designs called the Sammies funny face range. Pully and Dinky are two types of Samsonite Sammies suitcases. (4)

Trunki Suitcases

Pilot Cases: Pilot cases are suitable for overnight stay as well as for use in school. It also serves as a useful carry-on case for long-distance travel. The small size of pilot cases makes it convenient to be carried on the plane. The case has a rolling wheeled and a top handle. It is lightweight that kids can easily handle it. Disney Pilot case is a well-known brand in kid’s luggage. Disney pilot cases are colorful and designed with kid’s favorite Disney characters. (5, 6)

Duffel Bags: Duffel or Duffle bag is cylindrical bag made of cloth, which find its use as a kid’s sports bag or a holiday bag. It is usually spacious enough to pack all the necessary items for sleep overs. Samsonite Sammies has two popular duffel bags, namely Lucky and Frisky (4, 7,

Luggage Sets: A luggage set consists of two or more pieces of luggage that are sold in a combo. It usually includes a small wheeled suitcase, which one can take to the airport. A matching backpack is also included in the set, which can be used to hold a few toys or activities to keep your kid occupied on the plane. The third piece of the set may be a duffle with wheels which is perfect for use as an overnight bag during sleepovers. (9)

Personalized Kid’s Luggage:
Personalizing a luggage makes it unique, distinct and easier to locate on a baggage carousel. Kid’s luggage can be personalized with their names or initials monogrammed or embossed on them. Some shops offer the option of personalizing luggage with the kid’s name or initials together with their favorite image. Kids will be thrilled to flaunt around the luggage with their names on. Personalized luggage can give kids the liberty to be in charge of their luggage with the reassurance that the luggage can still find its way back to the owner if it gets left behind. Personalized luggage is especially useful in trips in a group as kids can easily locate their luggage amid other bags. Personalized luggage is an ideal gifting solution for kids because all kids enjoy independently carting around their own luggage when they travel. (9, 10)

Tagging a luggage with kid’s name is another way of personalizing a luggage, besides embossing or monogramming. Personalized tag with kid’s name and parent’s contact number is especially convenient for school bags. Before ordering, one should check if the material of the tag can withstand wear and tear caused by baggage handling at airports. Personalized luggage tags for younger kids should be child-friendly and non-metallic; laminated cardboard paper and hard plastic are good options. (11, 12)

Kid’s luggage tags are available online or in stores. A simpler and economical alternative would be self-made personalized luggage tags. One can make a personalized luggage tag with just few stationery items such as paper, pen, and stencils. (10)

Some of the online stores that make kid’s personalized luggage tags are as follows:

·         Rockpaperscissorsinvitations.com: They offer tags made from two types of durable and child-friendly materials: thick engraved plastic and laminated cardboard. A short silver clasp chain is supplied with the tags for the purpose of attaching the tag to bag.

·         lemontreepaperie.com: They offer plastic tags with easy-to-attach plastic loop.

·         oliverslabels.com: They have a collection of tags for different occasions: travel, sports, dance, strollers etc.

·         labelyourstuff.com: Their tags are childproof and made of thick plastic material with a plastic loop for fastening it to the luggage.

·         haggusandstookles.com.au: This store has more than 20 varieties of designs for tags and themed tags for sports, dance, cartoon etc. (13)

Video: The URL http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezIiPCiF2j4 leads to a video showing the ad for Trunki, the world's first ride-on suitcase. Another video http://youtu.be/KHhTW4sQuw8 talks about designer kid’s luggage by Heys.

Source:

1. http://www.overstock.com/guides/best-luggage-for-kids

2. http://www.thecompanystore.com/Explorer-Rolling-Suitcase-(56%25-Off)/78004C,default,pd.html

3. http://babyproducts.about.com/od/travel/gr/trunki.htm

4. http://www.funkymoose.co.uk/luggage-for-children/sammies-luggage-for-children

5. http://tips.become.com/luggage/kids-luggage.html

6. http://www.walmart.com/ip/Princess-Pilot-Case/14935906

7. http://www.mooo.com.au/duffle-bags/

8. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duffel_bag

9. http://handbags.lovetoknow.com/luggage/kids-luggage-sets

10. http://www.amillionlives.net/personalized-luggage-tags-dont-loose-your-bags-again.html

11. http://www.kidstravelzone.com/

12. http://www.haggusandstookles.com.au/Kids-bags/Kids-Pencil-Cases-and-Accessories/3411/

13. http://personalizedluggagetagshq.com/personalized-luggage-tags-for-kids/

The following are some of the designs of lunch bags for kids, currently being sold in the marketplace:

• Lego Kids Insulated Bag: This is a colorful lunch bag that has graphics printed on it. This insulated bag, which has been made from PVC, has a very roomy main compartment. In fact, the bag has been made in such a way that, it can easily be fixed to a backpack. There is a pocket on the exterior where kids can keep small items. This Lego bag is priced at around $18, and the buyers are not burdened with any extra charges towards shipping. (1)

Lego Kids Insulated Bag

• J World Shadow Puzzle: This is actually a rolling backpack of 16” that is accompanied by a lunch bag matching it (backpack). Both the backpack and the lunch bag are made from 600D polyester. The product is sold with a warranty that is subject to terms and conditions specified by the manufacturer. (2)
• Wildkin Pirates Original Lunch Bag: This lunch bag, which comes with a price tag of about $14, is an insulated one that is very convenient for usage by kids. As a matter of fact, the bag has successfully cleared the test related to food safety on contact. The bag has a removable shoulder strap, not to mention the mesh pocket that is located in the interiors. In addition, there is a zipped compartment at the exterior where several small things can be accommodated. This Wildkin Bag comes with a warranty lasting for one year from the date of purchase, and it (warranty) does not include regular wear and tear. (3)

Apart from the three designs that have been mentioned above, even the products included in the ensuing table can be classified as being amongst the “best lunch bags for kids”:

(4)

Also, some of the models specified in the above table fall into the category of “cheap lunch bags for kids”.

Personalized lunch bags: Nowadays, it is not at all difficult to be getting personalized lunch bags for kids. In fact, kids now prefer these patterns of lunch bags that have images of characters like spider-man, batman, etc on them. Along with using these varieties for carrying lunch, children just love to take the personalized bags also to field trips, picnics, etc. These personalized bags are made in a manner so as to be having topmost quality. Here, it has to be specifically mentioned that there are several online locations where, lunch bags of this type are being sold. For instance, www.amazon.com is currently offering the following models: Toy Story 3 Lunch Bag, Skip Hop Zoo Lunchie  Insulated Lunch Bag, Copy Dino/Lunch Bag Bandit and Disney Cars Insulated Lunch Box. (5)

Wholesale lunch bags: There is now no dearth for online stores that sell quality lunch bags for kids, at wholesale prices. Here, it won’t be out of place in having a brief look at one such store. The online location, www.branders.com, is providing varying types of lunch bags at very reasonable prices. These are some models of the bags that one can find in this store: Non-Woven Insulated Lunch Bag, Lunch Bag- Drawstring Closure, Cooler Lunch Bag, Enviro Sack Lunch Bag and Dual Compartment Insulated Lunch Bag, to cite a few. (8)

Neoprene lunch bag: Neoprene lunch bag can be rated as being the ideal choice, when it is the question of having an insulated lunch bag. As a matter of fact, a significant chunk of neoprene lunch bags presently available are perfect combinations of stylish look and reliability. These bags ensure that the food items present inside are constantly either warm or cold, as needed. These are some of the bags of these patterns that are right now sold in various stores: Built NY Gourmet Getaway Neoprene Lunch Tote – French Bull, BUILT Neoprene Mini Gourmet Getaway Lunch Tote Black, Built Tortuga Lunch Tote, Ski Patrol Red and BYO Rambler Lunch Bag by Built NY Inc. – Red, to cite a few. (9) 

Reusable lunch bags: In the modern-day, there are many consumers who are opting for reusable lunch bags. This is because of enhanced awareness on the aspects related to environmental preservation. As a direct result of that, there are now quite a number of lunch bags that are made from materials like canvas and organic cotton. These bags signify as being a great means of reducing usage of plastic and paper. (7)

Videos

Ø  The link mentioned below leads to a video clip, in which, the features of iCOOLer Lunch Bag are briefly elaborated.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DzTcEwhlz0&feature=related

Ø  The following link has a video focusing on some interesting points about lunch boxes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoCKPItc0lQ&feature=related

Ø  The ensuing is a video where, parents express their opinions about lunch bags used by the kids.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mtwZ5a83GM&feature=related

Ø  The below-mentioned link includes a video clip where, points about Back to School Lunch Box are explained.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyIkSdcIwjg&feature=related

1. http://www.zappos.com/lego-kids-insulated-bag
2. http://www.overstock.com/Luggage-Bags/J-World-Shadow-Puzzle-16-inch-Kids-Rolling-Backpack-with-Lunch-Bag/5851679/product.html
3. http://www.amazon.com/Wildkin-Blue-Pirates-Lunch-Bag/dp/B002HU4VDS
4. http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/product-reviews/childrens-products/lunch-box-reviews/best-kids-lunch-box#slide-1
5. http://robrob29.hubpages.com/hub/Personalizing-your-childs-lunch
6. http://robrob29.hubpages.com/hub/Selecting-a-designer-lunch-bag
7. http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-lunch-bags.htm
8. http://www.branders.com/lunch-bags/wholesale-lunch-bags.htm
9. http://www.squidoo.com/neoprene-lunch-totes

The following are the main brands of school backpacks that are currently in vogue: JanSport, The North Face, DaKine, Roxy and Nike. And the below-mentioned are some models that are being sold under these brands:

• JanSport Trinity III: Among the entire range of JanSport, the Trinity III has the highest demand in the markets. This model, which is available in several colors, supports topmost levels of quality. The shoulder straps are made of foam to make sure that users feel comfortable while using the Trinity III. The backpack comes with a spacious main compartment, not to mention the presence of an extra pocket. In fact, this design is also inclusive of a laptop sleeve. Owing to all these features, this model is very convenient to be used as a school backpack. This product has a price tag of around $30, and it is sold with a guarantee of thirty years. (1)

JanSport Trinity III

• JanSport SuperBreak White Pure Purple Mona Stripe: This JanSport backpack comes with a very roomy main compartment, as well as a pocket at the front. The lightweight design of the product makes it ideal to be used by college and school students. This school and college backpack, which is priced at around $25, comes with a guarantee lasting for three decades. (2)
• The North Face Jester Daypack Backpack: This product is inclusive of several unique features, and therefore its usage is not confined to just as a school backpack. It can be used for several purposes, including long hikes. The large main compartment and the presence of several layers ensure that plenty of things can be accommodated in the backpack. Despite that, the product has a very lightweight design, making it still more convenient for the consumers to use the backpack. Buyers can get this product by paying around $50. (3)
• The North Face Women’s Electra Backpack: This product, having a price of about $50, has been particularly designed for women. The main compartment of the backpack is very spacious, and it has several zipped pockets at the sides. The backpack has been made from top quality polyester. (4)
• DaKine Campus LG Backpack: This backpack is extremely useful when electronic items have to be carried around. In fact, this DaKine backpack is of great use to school students. This model is sold with a price tag of approximately $55, and it is manufactured from 600D polyester. (5)
• DaKine Heli Pack Backpack: This product is ideal for all the consumers who are seeking a backpack having just the basic required features. Despite the fact that it does not have some features that are there in some high-profile models, yet, the Heli Pack effectively serves the purpose. This model comes at a price of around $65, and it is very simple to be carrying it around, courtesy the less weight. (6)

DaKine Heli Pack Backpack

• Roxy Shadow View Backpack: This backpack is ideal for people who are searching for a compact-sized backpack that is also having an attractive look. In fact, this Roxy backpack comes with designs of neon. The price of this product is in the region of $40, and the model is also inclusive of mesh pockets present at the sides. (7)
• Roxy Shadow View Backpack- Women’s Natural, One Size: This backpack, priced at about $40, has been specifically made for women. All the things can be accommodated in it in such a way that there is no discomfort whatsoever in retrieving them from inside. (7)
• Nike Varsity Girl 2.0 Backpack- School & Day Hiking: This school backpack for girls is highly suitable to be taken to school, and also for using for sports-related activities. All the related items can be conveniently kept inside in this backpack, which is sold with a price tag of approximately $32. (8)
• Nike Kids Backpack Fall 2011: The design of this backpack is such that, kids going to school would just love to take it along with them. The main compartment has two zips, not to mention that there several extra pockets. In fact, this backpack makes sure that kids are not put to inconvenience even when carrying a relatively heavy load. This model can be bought by paying around $95. (9)

Here, it has to be mentioned that all the above are just few of the several designs being sold under all those brands. These are some other models: JanSport Big Student, The North Face Isabella Daypack Backpack, Dakine Element Backpack, Roxy Noble Trek Backpack, Nike Airteam Training and Nike Kids Rolling Backpack, among others.

The table present below has details about some school backpacks that can be classified as “cheap school backpacks”:

(10)

At this point, it has to be stated that all the aforesaid designs, along with several others, are offered at wholesale rates by the portal www.wholesalestockroom.com. As a matter of fact, there are many other online locations on the Worldwide Web where, consumers can find attractive designs of low-priced school backpacks. (10)

Personalized school backpacks: A special mention also needs to be made of several online locations like www.mylogoimprinted.com, which provide personalized school backpacks. The activities of these online stores are not just confined to printing of logos and names on backpacks. The stores also make new designs (of backpacks) based on customer specifications. In fact, most of these sites also assure the consumers about the maximum duration within which the products are delivered, after taking of orders. (11)

Designer school backpacks: Most of the leading brands also have very attractive models of designer school backpacks. As a matter of fact, consumers can find very stylish patterns of these products in several portals such as www.shopstyle.com. The ensuing are few varieties of the designer backpacks currently being sold in the marketplace: Roxy Shadowview Graphic Backpack, JanSport Reversible Backpack, Dakine – Erika Backpack and Roxy Seafarer Backpack, to cite a few. (12)

Barbie school backpacks: There are now numerous patterns of Barbie school backpacks, which are highly appealing to small girls who are fond of Barbie dolls. A few of these models are sold with Barbie lunch bag that matches the backpack. These are some designs of this types of backpacks: Fashion Barbie Girls Backpack- Full Size Barbie Rolling Backpack, Glam Barbie Monogrammed Backpack, Barbie Large Pink Glitter School backpack and Barbie “My Fab Bag” Backpack, etc. (14)

Online Stores: Apart from the online locations, a mention of which has been made earlier, there are many other Internet-based stores selling diverse kinds of backpacks. Buyers can get the products of their choice at online places like ebag, L.L.Bean, Amazon, Toys R Us and Lands End, among many others.

Usage Tips: The below-mentioned tips are extremely pivotal, from the perspective of safe usage of school backpacks. Hence, it is more or less imperative that they are meticulously adhered to.

• The backpack should be having comfortable shoulder straps and waist straps.
• As far as possible, school kids need to opt for models having lesser weight.
• It is strongly advised that children have to always use both the shoulder straps.
• If the child experiences any pain at the shoulders, back, neck, etc, the same should not be ignored.
• Rolling backpack is the best for school-going children.
• It is equally important to be making sure that the backpack is a padded one.

Here, it needs to be highlighted that improper usage of backpacks would expose the kids to developing several orthopedic problems at neck, shoulders, back, etc. (13)

Videos

The below-mentioned link has a video clipping where, details of the best Back-To-School Backpacks are provided.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VsNwD1jxQk

The following link leads to a video clip, in which, focus is on the safe way of using school backpacks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5t7H1d6iOQ&feature=related

1. http://www.pak30.com/en/JanSport/TrinityIII/Black
2. http://www.pak30.com/en/JanSport/SuperBreak/WhitePurePurpleMonaStripe
3. http://www.altrec.com/the-north-face/jester-daypack-backpack
4. http://www.altrec.com/the-north-face/womens-electra-backpack
5. http://www.tactics.com/dakine/campus-lg-backpack/black
6. http://www.tactics.com/dakine/heli-pack-backpack/stencil

Irrespective of the brand one chooses, a toddler backpack should be appropriate for his or her age and physical abilities. When selecting a backpack for toddler, one should keep in mind if the child can easily carry the backpack on their own.  This is important because the toddlers are still developing their spine at their age.

Parents should consider the following criteria when choosing a backpack for their toddlers:

Size: A toddler’s backpack is likely to be packed with bits and bobs, and not with books and folders. This means that toddlers’ backpack should be not be too bulky, but should be spacious enough to hold several items. The recommended size for toddler backpacks is 13 inches high, 11 inches wide and 4 inches deep. The length of the backpack should be less to avoid dragging on the ground.

Material: Backpacks may be subjected to rough use in the hands of active toddlers, so it is essential to choose a tough material. Not only the construction, the backpack should be well stitched. Since it is likely to get dirty often, one should select a material which can be wiped off easily and is waterproof. Zippers and Velcro fittings should be of good quality.

Design: Small kids generally prefer designs of their favorite cartoon characters or animals, or just eye-catching colorful patterns. Get them involved in choosing their own backpacks can also get them thrilled about going to school. (1, 2)

Juju by Dante Beatrix

Dante Beatrix Backpacks:

Dante Beatrix backpack for little kids is a popular line designed for ages two to five. These backpacks are embroidered with graphics of forest creatures. They are large enough to hold everything that a toddler needs for a day at preschool, summer camp or play dates. Dante Beatrix Backpacks are made from long lasting nylon and laminated canvas. There is a smaller zipped pocket within the large interior. Both the panel and straps are padded. Dante Beatrix backpacks are free of PVC, lead, and phthalate. (3)

Stephen Joseph Backpacks:

Stephen Joseph has a good collection of backpacks for toddlers. They come in three styles: Go-Go bag, quilted backpack, and rolling backpacks.

Go-Go Bag: Embellished with Appliquéd Designs, Go-Go bags are constructed from vinyl. These easy-to-clean bags have zippered top and adjustable straps.

(4) 

Quilted Backpack: These backpacks are ideal for toddlers as the drawstring and magnetic snap enables toddlers to open and close with ease. Parents can choose these bags for monogramming as these are 100% cotton. (5, 6)

Rolling Backpack: Made from Vinyl material, these backpacks are easy to clean. They come with adjustable straps and retractable handle. If your toddler is having difficulty to carry the conventional backpack, this may be the better option. Stephen Joseph’s Rolling backpacks are suitable for both school and travel use. (7)

Rolling Backpack by Stephen Joseph

Little Packrats:

Little Packrats offer a variety of toddler-friendly backpacks. Little Packrats backpacks are of three types:

3-D Backpacks: These sturdy and easy-to-clean backpacks are made of weather-resistant. Rugged zippers and heavy-duty threads add to the durability. They come in an assortment of colors and the 3-D makes it definitely a head turner. (8)

Super Hero Backpacks: The Super Hero series backpack for those toddlers comes with a matching child-size mask. Super Bear, Super Dino, Super Dog and Super Mouse are some of the Super Hero backpacks. (9) 

School Backpacks: Little Packrats has an offering of kid’s backpacks aimed at school use. These backpacks have attractive animal graphics and come with comfortable straps and a handy hanging loop. (10)

3-D Backpack by Little Packrats

Four Peas Backpacks:

Four Peas Backpacks are available in a variety of colors and are adorned with stylish graphics. These kid-friendly backpacks especially appeal to parents seeking a fresh and modern backpack for their kids. These backpacks are roomy and easy to carry. (11, 12)

Some of the other well known backpack for toddlers are knitted backpacks from Blabla kids, roller backpacks from Mudpie, cute backpacks from Mint, backpacks with animal designs from Skip Hop, well-organized backpacks from Crocodile creek, Disney toddlers backpacks, to name a few.

(13, 14, 15)

Personalized Backpacks for Toddlers:

Kid’s backpacks can be personalized with their names or initials monogrammed or embossed on them. Some shops have the option of personalizing luggage with the kid’s name or initials together with or without customized design. Personalized backpacks make a perfect gift for small kids as they will be excited to flaunt around the luggage with their names on. Some of the brands which have the option of designing customized monogram are backpacks from Ralph Lauren and My Sweet Dreams Baby. (16, 17, 18)

Video: The URL http://youtu.be/WKwV5KLsC7M leads to a video explaining some tips for choosing the best backpack.

1.       http://www.toddlers-are-fun.com/toddler-backpacks.html

2.       http://madprogress.com/small-toddler-backpacks/

3.       http://www.beatrixny.com/little-kid-backpacks

4.       http://shop.stephenjosephgifts.com/P-SJ120101/Gogo-Bag–Heart.aspx

5.       http://www.parents.com/kids/style/fashion/the-best-child-backpacks/?page=3

6.       http://shop.stephenjosephgifts.com/P-SJ100114/Quilted-Backpack–Elephant.aspx

7.       http://shop.stephenjosephgifts.com/C-SJ9101/Rolling-Backpacks.aspx

8.       http://littlepackrats.com/3-D-backpacks.html

9.       http://littlepackrats.com/super-hero-backpacks.html

10.   http://littlepackrats.com/school-backpacks.html

11.   http://kidsfashion.about.com/od/shopforkidsfashion/fr/tdfourpeas_2.htm

12.   http://www.fourpeasonline.com/index.php/cPath/24

13.   http://www.blablakids.com/Online-Shopping/Backpacks

14.   http://www.parents.com/kids/style/fashion/the-best-child-backpacks/?page=2

15.   http://ohmint.com/catalog/1#41/all

16.   http://www.mysweetdreamsbaby.com/personalized/kidsbackpacks.htm

17.   http://www.ralphlauren.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11872689&cp=1760783.11124362&ab=ln_children_cs5_createyourown&parentPage=family

18.   http://www.amillionlives.net/personalized-luggage-tags-dont-loose-your-bags-again.html