Pick the Perfect Preschool Backpack and Lunchbox

The insane heat that we all know as summer is finally starting to dwindle which means it’s time for the crazy ritual that is back to school shopping. The number one item on every list should be to pickup a perfect preschool backpack and lunchbox. These get used everyday. But which one do you need to get for your child? Get ready to head out with your supply list and caffeinated drink of choice, it’s time to pickup up some essentials. Answer these few questions and you’ll have the perfect preschool backpack and lunchbox in no time.

Does Your Child Need a Backpack and Lunchbox?

• For young kids, a backpack might not even be necessary, and if lunch is served at school neither will a lunchbox.
• Ask your child’s teacher what your child will need to carry back and forth each day—items like a change of clothes and nap mat will likely stay at school.
  

  Courtesy: So Young

Preschool Backpack Options to Consider

Courtesy: Sarah + Abraham

• If your child needs a backpack or lunchbox, preschoolers and kindergarteners can often get away with a simple tote like these cute personalized ones from Sarah + Abraham. You can also find sturdier, longer-lasting totes at L.L. Bean.
• If your child wants to wear a backpack like their older sister or brother does, avoid big box stores like Target since they usually stock bags larger than your preschooler actually needs. For preschoolers, a big backpack can mean back strain not to mention more pockets for half-eaten food and random playground finds. So many rocks!
• For size appropriate backpacks search for preschool or mini backpacks, along with their coordinating lunch boxes, like these from Pottery Barn Kids (the lunch bag clips right on to the backpack)! L.L. Bean, Land of Nod, Garnet Hill Kids, and Skip Hop are great options to consider.
• Preschool backpacks are big enough to carry what your kiddo needs, but small enough for little backs to support. Protip: this is a great size bag for a sleepover at the grandparents’ house or for holding stuff to do on car trips. You’ll also find toddler and regular size backpacks on these sites for little and big siblings!
• If you’re looking for something eco-friendly check out the bright, fun designs at So Young Modern Family.
  

  Courtesy: The Land of Nod

Preschool Lunchbox Options to Lookout For

Courtesy: Pottery Barn Kids

• While searching, be sure to check out matching accessories like thermoses, reusable sandwich/snack bags and bento-style boxes like this one from Pottery Barn Kids.
• Lunchbox inserts are easy to open and keep food in place. Many have special compartments for storing things like dips and applesauce.
• You may want to go for a simpler, softer option for lunch. These adorable lunch sacks from Sugar Booger are the perfect combination of sturdy and versatile.

Parent Protip: Pick out three choices you think they’ll like and have them make the final call. Otherwise, you could be narrowing down forever!

There are so many options out there right now. Ask yourself some common sense questions—and ask the teacher—then you’ll be on your way to finding the perfect preschool backpack and lunchbox for your child.