Step by Step School Bags and Backpacks Comparison: How to Choose the Right Model for Your Child

Lucie Pelcová August 10, 2026 13 min read

Starting first grade is a big step for children, and an essential part of it is a school satchel. It will accompany your child every day for several years, carrying textbooks, notebooks, a pencil case, and a snack. 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 set up the satchel correctly.

Why choose Step by Step

Step by Step is a German brand of school satchels and backpacks (manufactured by the Hama company), where 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 price/performance ratio.

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 shoulder strap height while the child is wearing the satchel. An integrated rotating mechanism ensures quick adjustment so it will fit the schoolchild well throughout their primary school years.
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 belt, and a chest strap ensure optimal weight distribution and comfort while carrying.
Safety – bright colors and reflective elements on all sides of the satchel increase children's visibility when moving around the road in twilight or rain.
Durability, ecology, and warranty – long-lasting material made from 100% recycled PET bottles, PFC-free impregnation, certified vegan production, and an extended 4-year warranty.
Interchangeable motifs MAGIC MAGS – magnetic pictures on the flap and front pocket that children can change in a second, quickly enlivening or changing the look of the satchel or backpack.
Fidlock buckle – the magnetic closure 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 sturdy 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 primary school, including accessories, in the categories school satchels for first graders and school backpacks for 1st stage.

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

Before deciding on a specific model, review the key criteria of 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 section, sufficiently wide and soft straps, a chest strap (preventing straps from slipping off shoulders), and a waist belt (transfers part of the weight from shoulders to the pelvis). A correctly adjusted satchel sits tightly on the child's back but must not press. For Step by Step, adjustment is provided 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 correctly 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, nor the bottom edge the hips. 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 line, which is sufficient capacity for standard school equipment.

Safety and visibility

In autumn and winter months, children often walk to school in twilight. Reflective elements should therefore be placed on all sides of the satchel – not just in front, but also on the sides and straps. All school satchels have prominent reflective surfaces; the CLOUD REFLECT line 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 eco-friendly philosophy, Step by Step uses innovative materials made from 100% recycled PET bottles with PFC-free impregnation (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 snacks. 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, while 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 – spacious satchel in a more robust design with zippered side pockets
FIT – narrower and taller model intended primarily for smaller children
CLOUD – lightweight model with compact dimensions and elastic side pockets
GIANT – the highest line with an extended back panel for larger children
CIRCLE – eco-friendly backpack with a top flap
BASIS – basic minimalist model without extra accessories
2IN1 PLUS – hybrid model with removable reinforcements (satchel and backpack in one)

SPACE – 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 advantages are 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 thoughtful organization and enough space even for A4 folders. The internal pocket and the quickly accessible zippered pocket on the waist belt or the GPS locator compartment are practical. Side pockets are open; it does not have a padded handle.

CLOUD – 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. Side pockets with elastic bands are open.

GIANT – 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 – 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 all

Step by Step BASIS is the most accessible model, which has an 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, targeting 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	Especially 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	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	*	✓
Pencil case loops 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 selection

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 look, or even additional MAGIC MAGS pictures, so they can change the motifs.
Measure, don't 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 settings live: Adjust the satchel so it fits as well as possible. The weight should rest on the hips, not 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, 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 when it is correctly adjusted. For healthy carrying, follow step by step:

Adjust 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 shoulder straps: The satchel should sit close to the back; pull the straps so that carrying is comfortable.
Fasten chest and waist strap: The chest strap keeps the shoulder straps in place, the waist belt transfers the weight of the satchel from the shoulders to the pelvis.
Pack correctly: Put the heaviest items against the back, lighter ones in 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 closure – it is suitable for first graders and the first stage of primary school. A school backpack is softer and more flexible, usually larger, and has more compartments, which is why it is popular with older students. 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 main 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 of primary school. 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 buying 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, 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, handling 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, practically for the entire duration of the first stage of primary school.

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 quality Step by Step school backpacks and satchels

Investing in 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 of primary school. Thanks to the combination of top-notch 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 the start of first grade without stress, check out the article Be prepared for September.