Topping many back-to-school lists is a new backpack. But does anyone consider safe, health-conscious, spine-friendly bags?

Shopzilla's recent survey of parents shows that the answer is no. Here are some tips for safer backpacks:

• A fully loaded backpack should sit 1 to 2 inches above your child's waist and should not be so packed that it's pulling at the neck or shoulders. Distribute the weight evenly.

• Choose packs that have two wide-set, padded shoulder straps as opposed to a messenger or sling bag designed to sit on one shoulder. Look for one with a waist strap for added support.

• Your child's loaded backpack should never weigh more than 15 percent of his body weight, according to the National Association of School Nurses. So a 60-pound kid should not be schlepping more than 9 pounds.

• Treat backpack shopping like clothes shopping and have kids try them on.

Helen Malani is the chief shopping expert for Shopzilla.com, an E.W. Scripps company.