How to choose a travel backpack
Buying a backpack can be a daunting task, especially if it’s your first one. Today there are endless options with new sizes and colours dropping by the minute. Choosing the right travel backpack for you can be tiring process. Luckily I’ve written down a few important points to help you along the way.
What to look for
First and foremost it is important to find a backpack that fits you and your size. That way you can travel as comfortably as possible and even avoid injuries. If you have a shop close buy it can be a good idea to go there and try on some backpacks and get feedback from the workers there. Before heading out though, here are some other things to consider when browsing.
Compartments
An important aspect when looking for a travel backpack is the compartments. Ideally you’d want a backpack that has several openings and possibilities to store your stuff. That way you can easily separate your clothes, shoes and laundry. Another thing I highly recommend as well is to buy some packing cubes. These work like magic and make packing your backpack every three days (you’ll know what I mean) a dream! I personally use these, and they really do make everything so much easier.
Material
The material of your backpack should be in a material that is durable so it can last a long time. Nylon or similar is commonly used. Also it should be semi-waterproof or at least in a material that dries quickly. That way you’re good to go if you run into some light rain, and it helps you avoid bad smell and making friends on the road. Most backpacks out there also have a rain cover which is a lifesaver. This cover is small and lightweight so you can easily bring it with you. It will save your belongings in the pouring rain or if you spend time out at sea.
Lockable
Ideally you’d want a backpack that gives you the option to put a padlock on it to make sure your stuff is safe. Travelling around with dirty underwear might not seem of much interests to thieves, but having stuff stolen is always a downer and can affect your budget as well. We can’t always splash on a new travel wardrobe.
Especially when leaving your backpack underneath on long bus rides it’s a nice option to stow it away with a small padlock just for good measures. It might come in handy as well if you run into a hostel with limited lockers for your stuff.
Hip belt
This is a non negotiable for me. Without a hip belt on your backpack your shoulders and back will be destroyed. You need that support as you go from place to place. Even just five minutes of walking from a bus station to your hostel can take a toll on your body. A hip belt evens the load and makes travelling with a backpack a much nicer experience. These hip belts usually come with some neat pockets as well for the smaller stuff you want accessible at all times.
Padding
Make sure there’s some padding as well on your backpack. Especially on the shoulder straps, but also in the hip belt. This increases your comfort by a mile. Just because you want to travel on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some comforts as well. You’ll be glad you did!
Front loading
Lastly I’d say buying a backpack that opens all the way around is far superior to a top loading backpack. Being able to open the sides to take out stuff that’s at the bottom will be a life saver in a lot of situations. You want to avoid having to fill up the floor of your hostel dorm with all your stuff as you get to the bottom of your backpack. Simply opening the side and reaching for that thing you need will be appreciated by everyone sharing a space with you.
Size
So, does size matter? Yes and no. Ideally you’d want as small of a backpack as possible. Remember if you are planning on travelling long term, you’ll be carrying this a lot and no one enjoys dragging a massive backpack around the world. Also a smaller backpack means you will travel with less, which makes packing out and repacking a lot easier. You’ll thank me later when you’re packing to leave your hostel for an early bus to your next destination.
In general, when packing for a trip no matter the length, I like to pack for 7-10 days, and try to pick the most versatile items. This way you have enough for about a week, then do laundry and repeat. I’ve never had difficulty doing it once a week and it’s usually super cheap.
Also, if you’re travelling on a budget it is ideal to travel with a backpack that is allowed with you on the plane. Long term and budget travellers usually shy away from flights, however sometimes you won’t have a choice. Not having to pay for checked luggage saves a lot of money (and time).
Is suitcase a better option?
Someone will always make a case to ditch the heavy backpack, and opt for a suitcase. And although I can understand wanting a big box with wheels as you stroll through the streets, I wouldn’t recommend it. Especially for long term travelling. A backpack is just so much easier to store away as it’s more flexible. Also, as you start travelling you see how most streets around the world are not made for wheels. If you’re really not the backpack type, there are som options like the Osprey Fairpoint 36L Wheeled Travel Pack or similar. Kind of like a best of both worlds if you like.
How much does it cost?
Most backpacks these days will set you back upwards of $100 dollars with top of the line usually adding up to about $300. Investing in a good quality backpack though can last you a lifetime, and both your back and shoulders will thank you later. If you are planning to travel for a long time or do many trips for years to come, it is well worth the money.
I’d say between $150-200 dollar will give you a great option that you can take with you for probable more than a decade. If you use it everyday on a long trip, this backpack will likely have paid for itself by the time you get back. Then you will still have a perfectly functioning backpack ready for more. If you look out for sales as well, it is possible to get a good deal like I did many years ago on mine!
My choice
My choice was primarily based on one thing when I first bought mine. It needs to go with me on the plane. Therefore, I went with the biggest one allowed on most flights, the Osprey Fairpoint 40L. This backpack maxes out the dimensions allowed on most airlines. This saves you both time and money whenever you need to fly.
I also decided to get a daypack. This is super important for anyone planning to do activities while they travel, like overnight tours and longer day trips. You don’t want to be dragging your 40L backpack full of all the stuff you have into the jungle or up a volcano for a night. A daypack is a necessity in my opinion. That way you also complete the backpacker look with a big backpack on your back, and the smaller up front. You’ll look like a pro traveller in no time!
For my daypack, the natural option would be the Osprey Daylite that often comes as a deal with the Osprey Fairpoint 40L. However, I decided I needed something with more support and a hip belt. For that reason I went with the Osprey Talon 22L, which has been the perfect companion for multi-day tours like the Inca Trail, Lost City Trek and Acatenango Hike. This backpack also has a pocket for a water reservoir as well to make sure you stay hydrated. When flying I also never encountered any problems bringing this as my personal item.
Where to buy
When buying a backpack I would first of all see if any local shops or online stores in your country has any deals going on to get the best price. If not, Amazon is a great option for anywhere in the world. If you feel like it, using this link means a receive a small commission with no expense to you. It would mean a lot in helping this blog continue giving the best information out there!
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