Reading is one of the best ways to stay busy and entertained while traveling or commuting. But books, especially paperback books, are prone to damage inside a full backpack. So what is the best way to protect books while carrying them in a backpack?
There are several effective ways you can ensure books stay in top shape in a backpack. Books are best protected with a book bag, bubble mailers, or Ziplocks. Using a backpack’s padded laptop or tablet compartment is also a good way to protect books.
If you enjoy reading while on the go, there’s no need to worry about the state of your books. Read on below to learn more useful tips about keeping your books protected in a pack.
Table of Contents
How To Protect a Paperback Book in a Backpack
Books are prone to damage or wear and tear if they are tossed around in a backpack.
Whether you are reading hardbound or paperback books, the last thing anyone wants is to see damaged books. The good news is that there are many ways you can ensure books are protected while they’re stored in your backpack. Below, you’ll find an array of solutions to choose from.
Book Bag / Sleeve
Book bags, also known as book sleeves, come in different sizes. They are usually padded and water-resistant so you can use them in your backpack without worry of scratches and dents.
What You’ll Need
Choose a book bag or sleeve that corresponds to the size of your book. Larger sizes can also be multipurpose as they can be used several times with books of different sizes.
Some recommendations from Amazon are included below (note: we earn a small commission from Amazon if you decide to purchase any of these products):
- Book sleeve or book bag with padding and zipper enclosure for better protection.
Process
Insert your book into the book bag or book sleeve of your choice. Pack it into your backpack, though it would be best to store it in a laptop or tablet compartment if your backpack is equipped with one.
Bubble Mailers
Bubble mailers are an inexpensive yet effective way to protect books. They are lightweight, affordable, and tear-proof, commonly used by retailers to ship books out. These are excellent for book protection because its interiors are lined with layers and strong bubble technology.
What You’ll Need
- Bubble mailer that can fit your books. These are best suited for protecting small, paperback books.
Process
Place your books inside the bubble mailer. Close it properly to prevent dirt and spills from getting into the package. Use as many bubble mailers as you need for your books inside your backpack.
Ziplocks
Ziplocks are a handy tool for keeping books in good condition while in your backpack. Aside from preventing covers and pages from being torn and folded, Ziplocks also shield from moisture and sunlight, which cause books to turn brown. In addition, Ziplocks are waterproof too.
What You’ll Need
- Ziplocks that are big enough to keep your book. Depending on the size of your books, you can safely keep more than one inside a ziplock.
Process
Place your book inside the Ziplock. Use one hand to press down bag enclosure while using your other hand to squeeze out all the air inside. The Ziplock should be free from air inside; you can now keep it inside your backpack.
Backpack Compartments
Using a backpack that already has several compartments, particularly for laptops or tablets, is an effective means of protecting your books. Padded compartments are always best because they protect books from sharp edges especially if you are filling up your pack.
The pack’s compartments are great for protecting books, but if you need to keep more books in the interior, you can supplement it with the other tools mentioned above. Using a bubble mailer, book bag, or zip lock can give added protection for fragile paperbacks inside the padded compartment.
What You’ll Need
- A backpack with a padded laptop or tablet compartment; this helps separate the books from other items that may cause harm or damage
Process
Store your books inside the padded laptop compartment. Avoid packing other items into the compartment especially perishables or sharp objects which can damage the books.
Conclusion
It isn’t difficult to keep your books in good condition while you travel with a backpack. With these tips and tools, you now have several useful options for protecting books in your backpack.