Since your backpack will probably be the most important purchase you will make before hitting the road, it’s definitely worth taking the time to choose it wisely. It will either be your best friend or worst enemy, depending on which backpack you choose.
A travelling backpack is very different from the backpack’s that we normally would buy, say to go to school. Think of it as your new home, where everything you are own is stored. Now you must lug it around on your back for the next few weeks, months or even years as you backpack the world. With that in mind, we are going to provide you with a few pointers to consider when choosing a travel backpack.
A travelling backpack is very different from the backpack’s that we normally would buy, say to go to school. Think of it as your new home, where everything you are own is stored. Now you must lug it around on your back for the next few weeks, months or even years as you backpack the world. With that in mind, we are going to provide you with a few pointers to consider when choosing a travel backpack.
- Size is Important! Before choosing a backpack, have an idea of what’s going to go in it. You don’t want a backpack that’s no bigger than the largest loads you will carry (as the larger the backpack, the more you may be inclined to fill it), but you don’t want to go too small either (an overloaded backpack may feel uncomfortable and unstable)
- Think in litres! Most backpacks (even daypacks) have a number embedded in their names to identify the pack's carrying capacity (aka volume) in liters. A 30L pack will do great for a weekend (even a week long) getaway, but if you’re looking for a pack for a more long-term travel, you will probably need somewhere in between 55-75L.
- Think of the Frame! Body-hugging internal-frame designs are more common than the traditional external frame models. The frame resides within the backpack versus and external frame. These type of packs offer more flexibility because the weight is held close to your torso. They allow your arms to swing freely due to the narrow frame, they minimize pack-snag when you’re pushing through a crowd and they have the ability to keep loads stable and walkers balanced on unpredictable terrain.
- Get it fitted! You need a backpack that is appropriate to your torso length (it's best to know your torso length before you begin shopping)Even if you have all your measurements, the last thing you want to do is buy a pack that has not been fitted to you. Go to your local hiking/camping/backpacking store (for example Mountain Equipment Co-op) and have them properly fit you for a couple of different backpacks. They will fill the backpack with the approx. weight that you will be carrying. They will ask you to test drive the backpack a little to assure that the backpack remains snug and most of the backpacks weight is on your hips as opposed to your shoulders. They are also making sure that it’s not swinging wildly or throwing you off balance. Be aware of any minor concerns, as these will become painfully apparent after several hours on your feet with a heavy backpack on a hot day. The bag you choose…
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Frequently Asked Questions about Backpacks...
Are there different backpacks for females and males? If so, what’s the difference?
Packs will often be designed as unisex, however there are ones for males and ones for females. A backpack built for a male will generally have a slightly wider shoulder harness and a longer frame, where as women-specific designs are engineered to conform to the female frame. Depending on your individual build, don’t hesitate to try either. What’s the difference between a top loading backpack and a side loading backpack?
Backpacks used to only have been accessible through an opening panel on the top of the pack, however recently they have begun to offer side loading panels. The side loading panels offers you easier access to the stuff inside your back, but will add more weight due to the additional materials used. A back pack may also offer a separate access point for a sleeping bag, which is great for those nights you can’t find a room in a hostel as you can easily access your sleeping bag without emptying the contents of your pack. |
How can I ensure quality and durability in my choice of backpack?
Here are our suggestions:
What are some important things to look for in a backpack?
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Now that you understand the many features and specifications of backpacks and you have asked all of the right questions, put the two together and you should be able to find a pack that is fit for you. If you have any questions, email us at [email protected] |
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