Comparing Step by Step School Backpacks and Satchels: How to Choose the Right Model for Your Child

Lucie Pelcová September 1, 2026 13 min read

Starting first grade is a big step for children, and a school satchel is an inseparable part of it. It will accompany your schoolchild every day for several years, carrying textbooks, notebooks, a pencil case, and a snack on their back. That is why choosing a school satchel should not start primarily with the picture/appearance, but with the child's health and comfort. Step by Step school satchels and backpacks have been sold for more than 20 years, and thanks to continuous development, proven ergonomics, and a smart adjustable system that grows with the child, they have long been among the most popular brands on the market. In this guide, we will explain how the individual models differ, what to watch out for when choosing, and how to properly adjust the satchel.

Why choose Step by Step

Step by Step is a German brand of school satchels and backpacks (manufactured by the company Hama), for which ergonomics, safety, quality, and sustainability are the highest priority. Ergonomic Step by Step school backpacks and satchels are developed in cooperation with doctors and physiotherapists from the independent organization AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken). It awards the AGR certificate to products that are evaluated after testing as being particularly gentle on children's back health. Step by Step products excel in their combination of low weight, healthy carrying, the ability to change the design, and great value for money.

How Step by Step school satchels and backpacks differ from other brands

EASY GROW growing carrying system – with the height-adjustable back system, you can adjust the back length and the height of the shoulder straps right while the child is wearing the satchel. The integrated rotating mechanism ensures quick adjustment so that it will fit the schoolchild well throughout the entire first stage of primary school.
Ergonomics - AGR certificate – the ergonomically shaped back panel with certification and soft padding sits well on the back.
Three-point fixation – wide padded S-shaped shoulder straps, a removable waist and chest belt ensure optimal weight distribution and comfort when carrying.
Safety – distinctive colors and reflective elements on all sides of the satchel increase children's visibility when moving around the road in twilight and in the rain.
Durability, ecology, and warranty – long-lasting material made from 100% recycled PET bottles, impregnation without harmful PFCs, certified vegan production, and an extended 4-year warranty.
Interchangeable MAGIC MAGS motifs – magnetic pictures on the flap and front pocket, which children can change in a second, quickly liven up or change the look of the satchel or backpack.
Fidlock buckle – the magnetic fastening of the main compartment allows the child to easily open and close the backpack with one hand.
Drainage holes in side pockets – the pockets have special holes at the bottom that drain spilled drinks out.
Insulated snack pocket – the front pocket with a thermal insulation layer protects food from heat or cold.
Waterproof bottom – the bottom part of the satchels with feet is made of solid material, which ensures perfect stability on the ground, protection against moisture, and easy maintenance.

Tip: You can find Step by Step school satchels and backpacks for the entire first stage, including accessories, in the categories school satchels for first graders and school backpacks for the 1st stage.

What to focus on when choosing a Step by Step school satchel model

Before deciding on a specific model, go through the key criteria of the individual product lines – the differences are mainly in shape, size, and equipment.

Ergonomics and carrying system

A child's spine develops during school years, and an ill-fitting satchel can contribute to poor posture, muscle strain, and back pain. The basis of prevention is an ergonomically shaped and padded back part, sufficiently wide and soft straps, a chest strap (preventing straps from slipping off the shoulders), and a waist belt (transfers part of the weight from the shoulders to the pelvis). A properly adjusted satchel sits tightly on the child's back but must not press. For Step by Step, adjustment is ensured by the height-adjustable EASY GROW SYSTEM and for the BASIS model by the alternative ERGONOMIC BACK SYSTEM.

Weight

Every gram counts. Experts recommend that the weight of an empty satchel for first graders should not exceed 1200 g and that a full satchel should not weigh more than 10–15% of the child's weight. The lightest models (CLOUD, FIT, BASIS) without removable elements range from 950 to 990 g due to their low weight.

Size and volume

A properly chosen Step by Step school satchel must not be wider than the child's shoulders, and its top edge should not exceed the shoulder line or the bottom edge of the hip. Every child has their own body somatotype, which is why the manufacturer offers several models: narrower for petite children, longer backs for taller ones. Volumes range from 19 to 23 liters depending on the series, which is sufficient capacity for standard school equipment.

Safety and visibility

In the autumn and winter months, children commonly walk to school in twilight. Reflective elements should therefore be placed on all sides of the satchel – not just in the front, but also on the sides and on the straps. All school satchels have distinctive reflective surfaces, and the CLOUD REFLECT series is also reflective over its entire surface thanks to its print.

Material, durability, and maintenance

The satchel must easily withstand several years of daily use. In line with its environmentally focused philosophy, Step by Step uses innovative materials made from 100% recycled PET bottles with impregnation free of harmful PFCs (perfluorinated and polyfluorinated compounds). This protects not only your children but also the environment and saves resources (water, energy).

Internal layout and organization

For a first grader, one large, clear compartment supplemented by front and side pockets is ideal; older children will also appreciate an additional internal divider for textbooks or a front thermal insulation pocket for a snack. Heavier items belong as close to the back as possible so that the center of gravity is as close to the body as possible. The SPACE and 2IN1 PLUS models have zippered side pockets, and the FIT also has a quickly accessible pocket on the waist belt.

Overview of Step by Step models

The current collection of Step by Step school satchels offers 6 main models plus a special 2IN1 PLUS version.

SPACE – a spacious satchel in a more robust design with zippered side pockets
FIT – a narrower and taller model intended primarily for smaller children
CLOUD – a lightweight model with compact dimensions and elastic side pockets
GIANT – the largest series with an extended back panel for larger children
CIRCLE – an eco-friendly backpack with a top flap
BASIS – a basic minimalist model without premium accessories
2IN1 PLUS – a hybrid model with removable reinforcements (satchel and backpack in one)

SPACE – a versatile helper

The classic all-rounder has a spacious main compartment with a book divider, two zippered side pockets, and a front pocket. The pencil case is stored in the lid. Its advantage is plenty of storage space and a padded handle.

FIT – narrow and light

A narrowly cut model suitable for children of smaller stature with a height of 100 to 150 cm. The Step by Step FIT satchel is light, with well-thought-out organization and enough space even for A4 folders. The internal pocket and the quickly accessible zippered pocket on the waist belt or the compartment for a GPS locator are practical. The side pockets are open, and it does not have a padded handle.

CLOUD – the lightest model

The Step by Step Cloud for first graders is one of the most popular ultra-light satchels. It weighs only 990 g. The spacious main compartment with an internal pocket facilitates organization and ensures clarity. The side pockets with an elastic band are open.

GIANT – the largest satchel

The largest model for taller children with a volume of 23 liters has an extra-long back. It is recommended for children with a height of 120 to 170 cm. Due to its size, it is not suitable for first graders.

CIRCLE – the most ecological choice

The first recyclable satchel from this brand. The materials used for production are 97% reusable and do not contain glues or any harmful PFC or PVC chemicals. Ideal for average-sized children with a height of 110–115 cm.

BASIS – minimalist and accessible to everyone

The Step by Step BASIS is the most accessible model, which has the ERGONOMIC BACK SYSTEM with limited adjustment to the schoolchild's height. It is sold only in a set; MAGIC MAGS magnetic motifs are not included, but they can be purchased separately. It has a padded handle.

2IN1 PLUS – school satchel and backpack in one

A satchel with a volume of 19 liters that can be easily converted into a school backpack, aimed at small and slim children. Just pull out the plastic templates that serve as side reinforcements. It is suitable where you want one product for a longer period.

Comparison table of parameters

Comparison of Step by Step satchel models

Overview of all 7 models – dimensions, weight, volume, and equipment. Processed from the manufacturer's official comparison.

Parameter / Model	SPACESpacious	FITNarrow	CLOUDLight	GIANTLarge	CIRCLESustainable	BASISMinimalist	2IN1 PLUSSatchel and backpack in one

Top feature	Universal	Narrow cut	Particularly light	Longer back	97% recyclable	Basic model	Conversion to backpack
Recommended for	average-sized children	small, petite children	small, petite children	large children	average-sized children	average-sized children	small and slim children
Dimensions (H×W×D)	37×28×20 cm	37.5×28×20 cm	37.5×28×20 cm	44×28×21 cm	41×29×21 cm	41×28×20 cm	37.5×28×20 cm
Satchel weight¹	1,250 g	990 g	990 g	1,050 g	1,250 g	950 g	1,250 g
Set weight²	2,050 g	1,750 g	1,750 g	1,800 g	2,200 g	1,800 g	1,950 g
Volume	20 l	19 l	19 l	23 l	21 l	20 l	19 l
Carrying system	EASY GROW SYSTEM	EASY GROW SYSTEM	EASY GROW SYSTEM	EASY GROW SYSTEM	EASY GROW SYSTEM	ERGONOMIC BACK SYSTEM	EASY GROW SYSTEM
Set	5-piece	5-piece	5-piece	5-piece	5-piece	4-piece*	6-piece
MAGIC MAGS	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	*	✓
Loops for pencil case in lid	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	—
Zippered side pockets	✓	—	—	—	—	—	✓
Drainage holes in front/side pocket	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Padded top handle	✓	—	—	✓	—	✓	—
Edition (Limited / Special)	SPACE SHINE SPACE NEON	–	FLASH · OCEAN REFLECT	–	–	–	–

¹ Weight of the satchel/backpack without removable elements (Magic Mags, waist and chest strap).

² Complete set including Magic Mags, chest and waist strap, and accessories.

* BASIS: 4-piece set without MAGIC MAGS (magnetic surfaces are available), pencil case unequipped.

Source: Step by Step – official model comparison.

Tips and recommendations for choosing

Model first, motif second: Choose the shape and size of the satchel/backpack that fits your child's figure. Then let the child choose the appearance, or perhaps even additional MAGIC MAGS pictures so they can change the motifs.
Measure, do not guess: Before choosing, measure the child's total height and assess their figure (petite/slim vs. average vs. tall/robust). The satchel must not be wider than the shoulders. FIT or CLOUD fits petite children, GIANT fits taller ones.
Verify the weight of the empty and full satchel/backpack: Choose a lighter version and ensure that the full satchel does not exceed 10–15% of the child's weight.
Try the adjustment live: Adjust the satchel so that it fits as well as possible. The weight should rest on the hips, not on the shoulders.
Buy a set: Most models are available directly as a school set (e.g., 5-piece), which contains a satchel/backpack, equipped pencil case, pencil case, gym bag, and Magic Mags pictures – all in the same motif.

Tip: Other practical accessories go well with the satchel – bottle, snack box, or wallet.

How to properly adjust and wear the satchel

Even the best satchel will relieve the back only if it is properly adjusted. For healthy carrying, follow step by step:

Adjust the back length: With the EASY GROW system, adjust the height of the shoulder straps so that the top edge of the satchel ends at shoulder level.
Tighten the shoulder straps: The satchel should sit close to the back; tighten the straps so that carrying is comfortable.
Fasten the chest and waist strap: The chest strap keeps the shoulder straps in place, the waist strap transfers the weight of the satchel from the shoulders to the pelvis.
Pack correctly: Put the heaviest items close to the back, lighter ones in the front. The center of gravity will remain close to the body, which will significantly relieve the back.

Tip: Still not sure about the right model or brand? The article How to choose a school satchel will guide you through choosing a school satchel in detail, step by step.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a satchel and a school backpack?

A satchel has a rigid construction, holds its shape (even when empty), and usually has a simple fastening – it is suitable for first graders and the first stage. A school backpack is softer and more flexible, usually larger, and has more compartments, which is why it is popular with older pupils. Step by Step offers satchels primarily for 1st–4th grade.

How much should a satchel weigh?

An empty satchel for first graders should ideally not exceed about 1200 g, and a full one should not weigh more than 10–15% of the child's weight. The lightest models (BASIS, CLOUD, FIT) weigh around 950–990 g without removable elements.

How to choose a model according to the child's figure?

There is no one best school backpack for everyone – shoulder width and height are the deciding factors. The FIT or CLOUD model fits petite children, SPACE, CIRCLE, or BASIS fits average-sized ones, and the GIANT model with a longer back is intended for taller children.

What is the EASY GROW SYSTEM and how does it grow with the child?

It is a height-adjustable back system for Step by Step school satchels, where you can easily adjust the back length and shoulder strap height according to the child's height. One satchel will thus fit the child comfortably throughout the entire first stage. The GIANT model with an extended back panel length will additionally grow with children up to a height of 170 cm.

What are MAGIC MAGS and what are they for?

Magic Mags are magnetic pictures, thanks to which you no longer have to worry about whether the child will stop liking the motif on the backpack or satchel in a year. Magnetic pictures can be purchased separately and replaced with new ones at any time without having to buy a new satchel.

What does a school set contain?

Most models are offered in a 5-piece set: the 5-piece set contains a satchel, equipped pencil case, pencil case, gym bag, and Magic Mags pictures. Basis is a 4-piece set without Magic Mags and has an unequipped pencil case, 2IN1 PLUS is a 6-piece set and adds a set of templates.

Are the satchels waterproof and how are they maintained?

The surface is resistant to water and abrasion and can handle normal weather. Dirt can be wiped off with a damp cloth. A rain cover can be purchased for most models.

What is the warranty?

All Step by Step school satchels and backpacks are covered by an extended 4-year warranty, i.e., practically for the entire duration of the first stage.

What other brands of ergonomic school backpacks exist?

Older children or children with a taller stature who appreciate sophistication and a sportier look inspired by hiking backpacks prefer Ergobag, Bagmaster, Coocazoo, or Deuter school backpacks.

Discover high-quality Step by Step school backpacks and satchels

Investing in high-quality school equipment from the Step by Step brand means the certainty that your first grader's back will be safe throughout the entire first stage. Thanks to the combination of top-tier ergonomics, playful design, and durable materials, your children will gain a reliable partner for every school day, and you will have peace of mind and the certainty that you have done the best for your schoolchildren.

Tip: For more practical tips on how to handle children starting first grade without stress, check out the article Be ready for September.