Backpacks are awesome for carrying stuff around, whether it's for school, work, or adventuring. However, they can get cumbersome if you don't use them right.

That's why the Taunton Daily Gazette made a list of tips for proper backpack use, and I've picked out a few of my favorites.

1.) Choose a lightweight backpack

I know there's the temptation to get the biggest backpack with the most accessories and secret pockets you can find, but sometimes lighter is better. The extra weight can make a big difference especially if you or your child plans on wearing the backpack for extended periods of time.

2.) Go with function over fashion

Getting a backpack that looks great can be almost as important as it's functionality, but a few small things can make a big difference with the overall comfort and safety when carrying heavy stuff.

You'll want to get wide padded straps and a padded back to help distribute the weight better on you or your child's shoulders, along with chest and waste straps that click together to help with balance.

Also, a lot of kids like to wear the straps loose to look cool, or whatever, but they're not doing themselves any favors by doing so. They'd be better served leading the dork life by keeping the straps tight and giving themselves good leverage and comfort.

3.) Pack only what is needed

Your child's backpack should only weight about 10-15% of their body weight. All too often, I see kids carrying every book they need for the whole day all at once, giving them a great Quasimodo impression, but not a great spinal alignment.

4.) Distribution technique

When packing your things up, always put the heaviest objects at the bottom and close to the body. It helps balance the weight more evenly and can mean the difference between having a sore back or not.

Many laptop pockets are located near the back to protect the computer, but it also helps with the weight distribution as laptops can sometimes be the heaviest single object depending what classes your kids are taking.

5.) Put some wheels on it

Backpacks with wheels can look a little goofy, but the benefits far outweigh the fashion critiques. Why not take advantage of man's greatest invention? If it can help man achieve so much, it can help your children haul their homework around.

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