When you’re ready to get moving in your wheelchair, all the things you have to carry can do a fine job of slowing you down. There is only so much room in your lap and only so much control as well. How many times have you experienced the frustrating issue of a book or other flat item sliding off your lap onto the floor, well out of reach? That’s a good argument for a sturdy, reliable wheelchair backpack.
With the wide array of options out there, choosing the wheelchair backpack that best suits your needs can be daunting. However, there are a few models that rise to the top of the list.
Case Logic is a leader in backpacks of all kinds, and the wheelchair backpack is no exception. The Case Logic Mobility Backpack Deluxe offers a wide variety of amenities, including angled side pockets for easy access, wide openings and oversized zipper pulls. The bag itself is tethered to a tough outer shell for added security. For those who worry about latex, you’re in luck—this backpack is latex free.
The Quickie Backpack by Sunrise Medical looks very much like a typical backpack. The straps are designed to fit onto a wheelchair with handles or without. Don’t let the initial look of this backpack fool you—it expands an impressive amount to hold almost anything you might want to carry. The price is affordable. The only issue might be the lack of color options; blue and black combo is your only option.
The Wheelchair Backpack by Medline is one of the most expensive backpacks on the market, but it doesn’t seem to offer as much as the lower-priced competitors do. The backpack offers heavy-duty stitching to hold the heaviest of items, nylon mesh that flexes to hold the smaller things and side compartments perfect for water bottles and the like. The downside is the way it attaches to the chair; for larger users, the straps that loop over the backrest rather than the handles can lead to chafing.
The Wheelchair Backpack by the Wright Stuff is very simple, yet works well for those who don’t want to deal with several compartments or zippers. This single-compartment backpack is designed to fit over the handles of a wheelchair. Made of very lightweight nylon, it washes easily and folds right along with your wheelchair. The compartment closes with Velcro, which might not be as secure as other backpacks but works well for those who simply want a backpack in which to carry things around the house.
The Duro-Med Wheelchair Backpack might be the cheapest on the market, but sometimes, you simply get what you pay for. This simple waterproof backpack has one compartment that seals with a hook-and-loop closure. Made of nylon, the backpack isn’t all that sturdy. However, it fits very well over the handles of a wheelchair, and is perfect for those who need ease of use, such as those who suffer from arthritis.
The Therapy Connection offers a Wheelchair Backpack Carryon that is one of the best on the market today. Weatherproof and breathable, the backpack fits snugly over handles or on the back of the chair with buckles that keep it secure. The main compartment closes with heavy-duty Velcro. The backpack is latex-free and machine washable. The only downside is that it is designed to fit a wheelchair up to 18-inches wide; anything larger than that and you’re out of luck.
The Wheelchair Pack Carryon by Home Health Superstore might not be the biggest of the packs on the market, but it is definitely secure. A generous main compartment has a zippered closure, while expandable compartments on the side are perfect for larger water bottles. It has buckle straps and handle loops, as well as a carrying loop that allows you to use the backpack as a tote. The only downside might be just how sturdy it is, as this backpack can carry a great amount of weight, and that can put a strain on some manual wheelchairs. For a bag of this quality, however, the price is very nice.
Most of the backpacks reviewed here were designed for use on both manual and powered wheelchairs; however, in most cases a backpack will attach easier and be more comfortable when used on a wheelchair with push handles. Those who have arthritis in the hands or other physical issues that make zippers difficult might want to choose a backpack with Velcro enclosures.
A very simple backpack with one compartment is great for moving things around your home, but if you intend to use your backpack when shopping or on some other excursion, smaller compartments to hold water bottles, keys and the like could be a welcome addition. Also keep in mind that if a person is pushing you in the wheelchair; a backpack with a separate compartment they can call their own will make it easier for them to carry keys, wallet and other personal items.
The best of the wheelchair backpacks depends upon how you intend to use the product. For those who want a simple backpack to use around the house, the Wheelchair Backpack by the Wright Stuff will keep you moving with ease. Machine washable with a Velcro closure, this backpack is a good value for the low sticker price.
If you want something more durable, the Quickie Backpack by Sunrise Medical offers a hardy design that can suit all your needs. Though your color options are limited, the things you can put into this backpack are not. The Case Logic Mobility Backpack Deluxe also offers plenty of bang for the buck, especially if you need something latex-free. Oversized zipper pulls and a tough outer shell make this backpack worth the very nice sticker price.
Wheelchair backpacks are often affordably priced, which means you can change from one to another if the first choice doesn’t work out. You could also opt for separate backpacks, such as one for use indoors, one for use when traveling, or perhaps a backpack for each wheelchair you use. With a wide variety of styles and colors, choosing the backpack that suits your needs and your personal style can be as easy as slipping the straps over your push handles.
Our aprons are durable and stylish as well as designed and tailored specifically for wheelchair and scooter users.
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