Being a nursing student is hard enough without having to worry about what kind of backpack to carry all of your supplies in. There are so many different factors to consider! But don't worry, we're here to help.
In this blog post, we'll go over some of the things you should keep in mind when choosing a backpack, as well as our top pick for the best backpack for nursing students.
You may be wondering if you need a backpack for nursing school.
The answer is, it depends on a few factors. Although, admittingly we are leaning towards "yes".
Let’s explore what those factors are so you can decide if a backpack is right for you.
What Kind of Nurse Do You Want to Be?
The first factor to consider is the type of nurse you want to be. If you want to be a traveling nurse, then you will need a backpack that can hold all of your gear. Traveling nurses often have to pack their own scrubs, stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, and other supplies. A backpack will help you keep all of your supplies organized when traveling from place to place.
Nursing Programs
The second factor to consider is the type of nursing program you are enrolled in.
If you are enrolled in an accelerated nursing program, you will likely have less time for breaks between classes and clinical rotations. This means that you will need to be able to carry all of your belongings with you, which can be difficult without a backpack.
If you are in a traditional nursing program, you may think you won't need a backpack as much because most of your classes will be on one campus and you will have more time. But getting to and from campus (even to and from each class with heavy nursing textbooks) you will find a backpack really helpful.
Clinical Rotations
The type of clinical rotations you will be doing will also impact whether or not you need a backpack.
If you are doing your clinical rotations in a hospital setting, chances are you will not need a backpack because most hospitals provide lockers for employees to store their belongings.
However, if you are doing your clinical rotation in a community health setting, chances are you will need a backpack because community health centers usually do not have lockers for employees.
Always Be Prepared!
The third factor to consider is the type of person you are. If you are someone who likes to be prepared for anything, then a backpack is a good idea for you. Having a backpack with all of your supplies packed and at the ready, will help you feel more prepared and organized.
Some people prefer backpacks because they find them to be more comfortable than purses or tote bags. Some of the nurse backpacks have been endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) in the USA. So think about ergonomics, and how backpacks are often easier on your shoulders, back and neck than carrying other bags.
What to Look for in a Backpack for Nursing Students?
When you're looking for the perfect backpack to take with you to clinicals or on your next nursing shift, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind.
First and foremost, you'll want to make sure that the backpack is comfortable. You'll be wearing it for long periods of time, so it's important that it doesn't cause any discomfort.
You'll also want to make sure that it has enough compartments and pockets to hold all of your supplies, like your stethoscope, extra scrubs, and your lunch.
And finally, you'll want to make sure that it's durable and can stand up to the wear and tear that comes with being a nurse.
Our Top Pick: The JanSport Big Student Backpack
JanSport Big Student Backpack
Made with recycled materials and durable polyester fabric so it will last through all of your nursing shifts.
Why It's One of Our Favs
We think that the JanSport Big Student Backpack is the best backpack for nursing students for a few reasons.
First of all, it's extremely comfortable thanks to its padded shoulder straps and back panel.
It has a ton of compartments and pockets, including a front zip pocket and an organizer pocket, so you can easily keep all of your supplies within reach.
It's also nice to know it's made in part with recycled materials and durable 600D polyester fabric, so you know it will last through all of your shifts.
About JanSport
Lastly, we like their philosophy about a JanSport being with you for life.
In their words: "JanSport is with you for life. All of our bags come with a lifetime promise. Because good stuff should last. If one of our bags breaks, we’ll replace it or fix it. No questions asked."
We like it when we see reviews like this too: "Needed a new backpack for nursing school and so far this backpack has been great for it! I can keep all my lab supplies in one of the two big pockets. The other one I keep my laptop, notebooks, and folder. I stay organized with all the pockets. Also has a nice bottle holder on the side." [October 2022]
So, do you need a backpack for nursing school?
The answer depends on the type of nurse you want to be, the type of program you are in, and the type of person you are. If you are unsure, err on the side of caution and get a backpack that can hold all of your supplies and books.
Beyond carrying heavy books at school, there are several backpacks designed specifically with nurses in mind - you can check them out in our Buyers Guide: Best Backpack for Nurses. Where review our top 10 favorites for you.
You want to be prepared for anything!
Choosing the Right Backpack for Nursing Students
Choosing the right backpack is an important decision for any nursing student.
There are a lot of factors to consider, but if you keep comfort, storage, and durability in mind, you're sure to find the perfect backpack for you.
And if you're still not sure where to start, we recommend checking out our 2023 Buying Guide: Best Backpack for Nurses | Best Backpack for Nursing Students.
And hey, congratulations on considering nursing school!
Happy Shopping.
Your FavReviews Team!
Deborah Clarke
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