How to Choose the Right Backpack for Your Trip
Whether you’re heading off to Southeast Asia or hiking trails in the Himalayas, one thing you’re going to need is a decent backpack. It might not be something you’ve given much thought, but it can make a big difference to your trip.
For example, if you are out in nature and well away from any built-up areas, a broken backpack can be a real disaster. On the other hand, if you’re with a group or in the middle of a crowded place, the last thing you want to be doing is holding people up while you fish around inside your luggage for documents and things.
So, how can you make sure that you buy a backpack that suits your needs and will last the length of your trip and beyond? This guide offers some top tips to help you.
Water resistance
There are several qualities you can look for that any decent travel backpack should have. These will help you make sure that you are buying something robust and durable. The first is a water-resistant material. Unless you’re going on a hike lasting several days, it doesn’t need to be 100% waterproof, but it should be made from a material that won’t leave your belongings soaking if it rains.
As a rule of thumb, thicker materials are better at stopping water from getting through, but they can soak up the water themselves and become musty. Ideally, you want something that is both thick and lightweight so that it dries out easily.
Multiple zippers
If you are planning to travel to a foreign country, it can be wise to choose a bag where the compartments have two zippers. That way, you can buy a small padlock or combination lock to stop people from getting into your bag.
Lots of compartments
Throwing everything in is just no good; you never know what you might need to find in a hurry. Life is so much easier when your belongings are well-organised and you can swiftly find and retrieve anything that you need. This will also help you notice if anything goes missing, and it allows you to keep dirty items away from clean ones.
On the topic of finding things conveniently, you might also want to avoid backpacks with only one access point to the main compartment. When there is only one, it is usually at the top and this makes reaching items further down very difficult. However, some backpacks come with bottom and side access as well.
Padded straps and back
This one is significant if you are hiking or expect to wear your backpack for long periods. If you are carrying a lot of stuff, it doesn’t take long for you to start feeling the strain, and that will only be made worse if the weight is unevenly distributed and the straps are cutting into your shoulders. Padding on the shoulders and back helps correct the weight distribution and makes things a lot more comfortable.
Conclusion
This basic criterion will make sure that whatever backpack you choose stands up to anything you throw at it on your trip and perhaps a few surprises too. Once these are satisfied, it comes down to your needs and preferences.
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