Rolling Backpacks

Wheeled convertible backpacks

Rolling backpacks are one solution to the problem of heavy loads. The wheeled backpacks sized for school use can double as carry-on travel bags, though they're on the small side. They convert to backpacks, but vary in comfort and convenience, and because of the extra hardware, the packs themselves are heavier.

In 2001, the American Chiropractic Association changed its recommendation that students avoid back stress by using rolling backpacks. Apparently the proliferation of wheeled backpacks was causing a different type of injury -- from tripping over them. Also, according to the San Jose Mercury News, quite a few schools are concerned that the rolling backpacks can jam hallways and become a fire hazard.

The JanSport Driver 8 (*Est. $75) is one of the top-rated rolling backpacks in owner-written reviews at REI.com. An article on backpack safety in Vegetarian Times also recommends it. The JanSport Driver 8 includes a padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop, and the shoulder straps tuck away so they don't drag -- one of the most frequent complaints about rolling backpacks. The Driver 8 provides 2,175 cubic inches of space overall, with side compression straps and typical organization: two compartments plus a front pocket with organizer. One side mesh pocket can hold a water bottle. The drawback is that a few owners at eBags.com report durability problems: after a few months, the handle won't extend and/or a strap breaks.

Designed for ages 10 and up, the L.L.Bean Rolling Deluxe (*Est. $70) backpack is a little bigger at 2,350 cubic inches and features a reflective patch. It lacks the laptop sleeve, and the lower shoulder strap adjustment belts can drag when the backpack is rolled along. One owner-written review reports a handle-extension problem, but says L.L.Bean promptly replaced it. Comparison reviews of rolling backpacks find it reasonably durable, and most owners give it good ratings.

L.L.Bean makes several other rolling book bags. The L.L.Bean Rolling Critter (*Est. $65) is designed for ages 7 to 10, with some unusual features that include multi-color light-up LED wheels and two zippered side pockets, one of which also includes a mesh pocket. (Most wheeled backpacks lack side pockets.) However, owners report more quality control problems with this rolling backpack, including wheels that fall off.

The L.L.Bean Rolling Original (*Est. $50) is designed for ages 7 to 12 (under five feet tall) -- with 1,625 cubic inches of space. It gets mostly positive reviews from owners, with a few reports of quality control problems. Most owners find it durable and say the wheels roll easily and quietly.

Designed for ages 15 and up, the new L.L.Bean Rolling Turbo Transit (*Est. $100) includes a separate lower compartment for workout gear plus two main compartments, an organizer pocket and side water-bottle pockets. Its capacity is 2,565 cubic inches and it's the heaviest of L.L.Bean's rolling backpacks at 6 pounds 14 ounces. It's the only rolling backpack we found that includes a hip belt. The one review so far at LLBean.com gives it a perfect score.

In this teen/adult size range, many rolling backpacks are available, but few get very good reviews. Kipling makes two well-reviewed models, but they're expensive. Though most buyers use them as travel carry-on luggage, some report that they're more durable than most wheeled backpacks for school use. At eBags.com, 97 percent of the owners rating the Kipling Sausalito 18\" Wheeled (*Est. $188) say they'd buy it again. Kipling Alcatraz Trolley (*Est. $188) gets even higher ratings, and has more pockets for organizing items. The warranty is for one year.

The less expensive eBags Router Wheeled (*Est. $100) carries a lifetime warranty, but the handle only extends to one length -- too long for most kids and not right for some adults. Otherwise, owners seem to like it. It has a side-loading compartment that fits some 15-inch laptops; a chart at eBags.com lists the notebook computers that fit. When the Router is converted to a backpack, a back panel folds around the wheels to keep them away from your back, and the padded straps are S-shaped for better fit.

Owners say most less expensive wheeled backpacks don't hold up long. The Olympia 18\" Rolling Backpack (*Est. $35) , however, is a top pick in earlier comparison tests of durability and comfort for school kids. It's small (1,500 cubic inches) but includes an organizer pocket plus a side mesh pocket for a water bottle. The shoulder straps can be tucked in, though some parents report problems with kids letting them drag. Owners reviewing the Olympia at eBags.com give it a lower overall rating than the Kipling and Router Wheeled rolling backpacks. Despite the ten-year warranty, quite a few owners report durability problems.