Single Strap Backpack

Sling Backpack

The biggest feature that defines a sling backpack is that a single strap is used for holding it on your shoulder. Contrary to a standard school backpack that has two straps, the sling bag has one nicely padded strap that lays comfortably across your shoulder, back or hips depending on how you wear it.

They get great reviews for comfort and are highly recommended both as day packs and camera bags. They aren't big enough at the top to hold school books, although it would be great as an office bag.

They do make a sling bag for kids, and it gets perfect 5 star ratings at Amazon.

Go Diego Go! Sling Bag Rescue Pack - $19.99

I bought this pack for my son's Diego halloween costume. He already had a cheaper backpack version that we bought at the Diego live show, but the two armholes on that pack don't fit him anymore (he's almost 4). This one is much more like the "real" rescue pack that Diego wears than any of the others I've seen on the market. The quality is very good, it's made from rugged backpack material, similar to what you'd see in sporting goods stores and very well constructed. Tha patch on the front is embroidered and looks very professional. We might even start using it as his regular pack for preschool. The velcro strap in the front is adjustable and so it seems that it could fit kids from about 2 to maybe 6. I had wondered from the listing whether it was officially licensed or more home-made, since I haven't seen this for sale anywhere else, but the tags look legit. - Amazon customer review

This bag is specifically designed to make it easy on your back and body to carry the bag when full. It's called the AmeriBag Classic Cotton Canvas Healthy Back Bag. The manufacturer description says "AmeriBag, a leader in the handbag industry for over 20 years, is renowned worldwide for its patented Healthy Back Bag tote. Its trademarked teardrop shape contours to the natural curve of your body, reducing apparent stress on your neck, back and shoulders, making it an exceptionally comfortable bag. All of AmeriBag's Collections incorporate innovative ergonomic designs, multiple organizational features and quality materials."

The top reviewer states "I love this bag. It is the second one I have gotten. The other one just wore out finally but I carried it all over the world. It is a wonderful purse. It is ergonomically designed so that the bag can be full but the weight isn't noticable. It is comfortable with the wide strap over the shoulder. There are multiple pockets to organize everything. I have a pocket for pens, a pocket for the checkbook and calendar, etc, a pocket for the cell phone, a pocket for keys, a pocket for a comb and whatever and that is just inside the bag. Outside are pockets for whatever you want, like business cards, work badges, etc and a pocket for a bottle of water. a larger one would work well for carrying as a tote bag or book bag, but this one works well for me." - Amazon customer review