How to choose the right travel backpack

The main task of a travel backpack is to accommodate all the equipment you need on a hike. At the same time, it must be stylish, of high quality and quite comfortable, otherwise the trip may turn into unbearable back pain, fatigue and unpleasant memories.

Today you can come across a wide variety of backpacks from famous brands in the shops of camping equipment. They differ in shape, size, design. We will try to help you navigate and determine the points that you should pay attention to in order to make the right choice, save money and your health in the conditions of a multi-day hike.

1. Choice of design

Depending on the design, tourist backpacks are divided into:

- Soft - do not have a frame, however, under the condition of tightly packed things, they take shape. The advantages of such models: low weight and low cost. Such a backpack can be rolled up and put away. The convenience of soft models is predetermined by the user's ability to properly stack things.

- Easel - consist of 2 components: a strong frame (plastic or metal) and a soft backpack, which is attached to it with the help of straps or in another way. In such a backpack, it is allowed to carry heavy luggage, since the frame, having correctly distributed the weight, will reduce the load on the spine.

- Frame (anatomical) - the most common among modern tourists. They are durable, comfortable and suitable for hiking trips of varying length and difficulty. The frame in such models is sewn into the backpack and acts as a solid frame.

2. Shape and dimensions

Most often, a travel backpack is quite narrow and tall. This shape is the most comfortable, in addition, it achieves an upward shift of the center of gravity, so it is easier to carry.

Backpack capacity is measured in liters. The optimal volume is 50 liters. On longer trips, they choose models designed for 75-90 liters - for men (60-75 liters - for women). If the hike is long, the volume can be increased as such trips require additional equipment.

There are other types of backpacks - very small for weekend hikes and specific items for special travels. A weekend backpack can be made of leather.

Assault backpacks also cannot boast of large volumes, but this is not the main thing for them. The main feature of the assault backpack is maximum strength and a minimum number of external pockets and protruding parts in order to minimize the possibility of snagging. These backpacks will come in handy for those who love extreme hiking.

Weekend Leather Backpack

3. Material and fittings

The backpack should be made of durable fabric that is resistant to stress and mechanical stress. Most often these are synthetic fabrics - polyester and nylon (the cheapest), avisent and oxford are mid-range fabrics; but Cordura is the most expensive and reliable option.

It is also important to pay attention to the accessories (zippers, handles, straps), because low-quality backpacks deteriorate quickly and can let you down at the most crucial moment. The attachment points should be sewn to the sling and an additional layer of fabric.

If your travel is planned in hot weather, it is advisable to choose a product with the best ventilation around the shoulders and back.

4. The presence of a pocket and top flap

It is important to have external and internal pockets that can accommodate a large number of small things (flashlight, charger, food). It is advisable that the backpack has a flap that fastens at the top with straps and buckles.In case of bad weather, he will protect things from getting wet.

The bottom and side ties will reduce the volume, they can also be used to carry things and equipment that cannot be placed inside the backpack (rugs, sleeping bags).

However, the most important factor is the personal comfort of the backpack. Each person has an individual physique, so a model that fits one perfectly can be completely uncomfortable for another.

Therefore, before buying, you should definitely try on backpacks, comparing the convenience of different models. Ideally, you need to load the backpack with something in order to try it on with the load. Thus, you can choose the most convenient one.

5. Design and style

When choosing a travel backpack, one should think not only about reliability and convenience. The attractive appearance of the backpack will make you feel comfortable not only in hard-to-reach places of our planet, but also in a five-star hotel.

It should also be remembered that many manufacturers make special women's backpacks. Women's models differ not only in stylish design, pink or purple color, but also in design features adapted to the characteristics of the female physique.