What should a child carry? A kid’s own bag list
A child’s own bag does two jobs: it keeps them busy and it keeps your hands free. The trick is to keep it light, to let them choose some of what goes in, and to make sure the important things (documents, medicines) stay with an adult.
Check these first
The things people forget most. Everything else can be bought, borrowed or worked around.
- Passports and tickets
- Medication, with the doses
- Phone chargers and a multi-plug
- Comfort toy (and a spare if you have one)
- Glasses or contact lenses
- Toothbrushes
- Headphones
- Sun cream, if it’s sunny
What a young child can carry
What an older child can carry
What stays with a grown-up
Make it theirs
You can usually buy these there: Snacks, Water, Magazines or activity books. Leave room in the case.
Tips
- A good rule: a child’s bag should weigh no more than a tenth of their body weight.
- Pack the comfort item last so it’s easy to reach.
- Let children choose two or three of their own items. They’re more likely to carry the bag happily.
- Don’t put anything in the bag you can’t afford to lose.
Common questions
What should a child carry in their own bag?
Their comfort toy, a snack, a water bottle, something to do and a spare layer. Keep documents and medicines with an adult.
How heavy should a child’s bag be?
As a rule of thumb, no more than a tenth of their body weight. Younger children can carry much less.
At what age can children carry their own bag?
Many children enjoy a tiny backpack from around two or three. They’ll carry it for a short time. Older children can carry more.