Bum bag or small backpack: what to take on a school outing?

Back to school means more than lessons, exercise books and a full school bag. September soon brings class outings to the cinema, museums, parks and places around town. For a few hours away from school, you may not need your usual big backpack.

A bum bag or small daypack can be enough for the essentials. What matters is choosing one that fits what you need to carry, rather than taking a large bag out of habit.

A bum bag for a school trip: small and handy

A bum bag makes sense when you only need a few small things. You can keep it with you while you look around, without having to find somewhere to put a bigger bag down.

Depending on its size, it can hold:

• Your phone.
• A wallet or a little cash.
• Keys.
• Tissues.
• A ticket or school ID, if you need one.
• A small snack.

You can wear it around your waist or across your body, depending on its design and what feels comfortable when walking or using public transport.

It can also be handy for a trip to the skatepark. When you are heading out with your BMX, skateboard or scooter for a few hours, a small bag keeps your phone, keys and wallet together without needing a full backpack.

When is a small backpack the better option?

If you need a water bottle, lunch, a sweatshirt or a few extras, a small backpack gives you more room. Check the dimensions and capacity of the particular model so that everything you need will fit.

It can be useful for:

• A class trip.
• A visit to the cinema or a museum.
• Sightseeing around town.
• A coach trip.
• A short bike ride.
• Meeting friends after school.

Browse backpacks at RMDBike and compare sizes to find one that suits what you carry.

Bum bag or backpack for a class outing?

Start with how much you need to take. If it is just your phone, money, keys and a few small items, a bum bag may be enough. Once you add water, food and a sweatshirt or jacket, a small backpack is usually the more practical choice.

Pack what you will actually use. Less unnecessary weight makes walking, sightseeing and getting around town more comfortable.

What should you pack for a short school trip?

Check your school's packing list first. For a short outing, your essentials might include:

• Your phone, if allowed.
• School ID, if needed.
• A wallet or a small amount of cash.
• Water.
• A small snack.
• Tissues.
• Keys.
• A light sweatshirt or jacket if needed.

There is no need to fill every pocket. Think about whether those extra ‘just in case’ items are likely to leave the bag before you get home.

Carry what you need and enjoy the day

A school outing does not have to mean carrying a heavy backpack all day. A bum bag or compact daypack can keep the essentials together while leaving you free to get on with the trip.

Choose a size that works for your class outings, trips into town and visits to the skatepark.