Got an idea for a holiday? Send it to us

Submit Now

443 Shares
443 Shares
WedSep 17

National School Backpack Awareness Day – September 17, 2025

National School Backpack Awareness Day on September 17, strives to make sure students wear backpacks safely. Improper use can lead to back pain or injury, which can impact learning. On this day, teachers, students and parents come together to make sure families are aware of the risks — and that backpacks are being worn properly. It’s for the children.

National School Backpack Awareness Day timeline

​1938
​Gerry Outdoors invents the modern backpack

It's mainly used as a tool for outdoor recreation — for hiking, fishing and camping trips.

​1968
Lightweight nylon backpacks introduced

​This expanded the use of backpacks to students across the country. This is also the year JanSport, the world's largest backpack maker, went into business.

2001
The first National Backpack Awareness Day​

The American Occupational Therapy Association launched the country's first ever event dedicated to backpacks and safety.

How to Observe National School Backpack Awareness Day

  1. Attend an event

    Experts can provide instructions on how to manage backpacks. Find out just how heavy they can get!

  2. Share it on social

    Everyone knows either a parent or student on Facebook or Twitter. Get social and remind friends and family about this day.

  3. Write down tips

    Use a visual printout or bullet-point list to remind everyone about the basics of backpack safety.

​3 Tips For Wearing A Backpack Safely

  1. Use both straps

    Slinging your backpack on one shoulder can lead to ​bad posture, and injury or pain.

  2. ​Adjust the height

    Backpacks should be worn high on your back; they should sit an inch or two above your hips. ​

  3. ​Use the waist and chest strap

    ​The horizontal straps help distribute the weight and keep your load stable as you move.

Why National School Backpack Awareness Day is Important

  1. It keeps students safe

    Backpacks worn incorrectly can lead to pain or injury. That's why it's so important to check the weight and use them properly.

  2. It brings the community together

    National Backpack Awareness Day brings everyone together to learn about backpack safety. It's an opportunity to reach out to parents, caretakers and students.

  3. It helps kids

    Not only is this a chance to highlight backpack safety, it's also a chance for the community to learn about the challenges their students are facing as they carry heavier packs, loaded with books and other stuff.

National School Backpack Awareness Day dates

Year Date Day
2021 September 15 Wednesday
2022 September 21 Wednesday
2023 September 20 Wednesday
2024 September 18 Wednesday
2025 September 17 Wednesday