Which backpack is the most acceptable for college?

A painless backpack for college?

• I'm going to be a sophomore in college, and the backpack I used last year is fine, but I can do better. The thing is, I have scoliosis, and have a lot of back pain even without carrying 2 or 3 huge textbooks around. I need a backpack that is designed for less back or shoulder strain. Any suggestions? *Please, no messenger bags, or one-shoulder-strap bags. I need even support. *A rolling backpack is fine, as long as it can be carried on my back too *Number or compartments doesn't matter, I'll make do *Looks and styles don't matter, I just want less pain *Even a hip strap (like those on hard-core hiking packs) is fine Thank you!!

• Answer:

  You want a light soft internal frame pack. Either backpack or rucksack, depending on your preference. A rucksack has the tin can style top with clips which I like better than the backpack's zipper. Also you can overfill them which is great for extra clothing. It should have a relatively strong piece of plastic for the full back area covered by padded fabric; slightly flexible and not super rigid. I have a Black Diamond one that's used for almost everything and is nearly indestructible. Yes, they're somewhat pricey, but packs like that you can find on sale. I got mine for $50 US. Edit... I should add that a water bottle side stretch pocket is always a bonus. Also, those ax handle loops at the bottom is not a bad thing if you use clips (for example, I use carabiners to strap extra things)