A sturdy and comfortable backpack is so much more than just another fashion accessory. Sure, it’s important to find one that ticks all your style boxes. But with it being such a versatile necessity, you also have to find one that fits your needs and budget.
In a fast-paced, ever-commuting, and travelling world as today, you need a trusted travelling companion that can carry the load of all your daily needs while on the move.
Backpacks are a necessity for students, commuters, and travelers alike. However, with such wide varieties available on the market, it can take time to determine which suits your needs. This article will help you choose the perfect backpack based on your requirements. Whether you’re looking for a small backpack for everyday use or a large backpack for camping and travel, we’ve covered you.
The Different Types of Backpacks
Many different types of backpacks are available, each designed for a specific use or activity. The most common types include:
- Daypacks: These are ideal for students, commuters, and travelers who need lightweight backpacks to carry daily essentials. Daypacks typically range in size from 15-35 liters and are often made of lightweight materials such as nylon or polyester.
- Overnight hiking backpacks: If you’re heading out on an overnight camping trip or hike, you’ll likely need one of these larger backpacks to accommodate all your gear. These backpacks tend to be larger (40–80+ liters) and are designed to support the weight of your gear over long distances. They also often include additional features like compression straps or loops for securing items outside the pack’s main compartment.
- Backpacking backpacks: These are the market’s largest and most specialized backpacks, explicitly designed for long-distance, multi-day backpacking trips. They typically range from 90-120+ liters in size and are built to support heavy loads for extended periods. They also often include additional features such as waterproof materials, padded waist straps, and clever storage solutions for all your gear.
Choosing the Right Size Backpack
When choosing a backpack, it’s essential to consider its capacity (measured in liters) and its overall dimensions. These factors will help you determine whether the pack is suitable for your needs based on what you plan to carry in it:
- Capacity: If you’re looking for a daypack or overnight hiking backpack, aim for one that is around 20-35 liters in size. For longer trips, backpacking backpacks usually range from 60-120 liters depending on your carrying needs and preferences.
- Dimensions: Size is important when choosing a backpack, as it impacts how easily you can use and access the pack’s contents. Generally speaking, larger packs are better for carrying heavier loads but may be more challenging to maneuver through crowded spaces or tight trails. More miniature packs are better for daily use and can help minimize bulk and weight when traveling or commuting on public transportation.
- Packing space: If you’ve travelled often you know how frustrating it can be to lay your hands on a specific item you suddenly need while checking in at an airport. Make sure that the backpack you choose offers the right number of compartments for what you take with you on every trip. Also look for smaller and more accessible ‘hidden’ compartments for your smaller items like your driver’s licence or passport, reading- or sunglasses, and any other small items you might remove and replace often while travelling or commuting. Also make sure that it offers enough support and protection if you carry electronic gadgets with you.
Once you’ve determined both the capacity and dimensions of the backpack that best suits your needs, you can focus on other factors like material, features, and price.
By carefully considering these factors and taking your personal preferences into account, you’ll be able to find the perfect backpack that meets all your requirements and helps make your travels a little easier!
Budgeting for Your New Backpack
When choosing a backpack, it’s essential to consider your budget and overall spending goals. There are many different options available on the market, so you should be able to find a pack that suits your needs and falls within your price range.
However, it’s essential to remember that higher-quality backpacks typically offer better features and longer-lasting materials, so investing in a quality product is often worth the extra cost in the long run.
If you’re on a tight budget, several tips can help you save money when shopping for a new backpack:
- Look for sales or discounts online. Many retailers offer frequent promotions on backpacks throughout the year, so do some research and comparison shopping to find the best deals.
- Consider buying a used backpack. Many people sell their older backpacks online or at consignment shops, so you may find a great deal on a pre-owned model that is still in good condition. Inspect the pack closely for any signs of damage or wear before purchasing it.
- Compare prices from multiple retailers. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different sellers, as this can help ensure you’re getting the most value for your money. Be sure to read reviews from other buyers as well, so you can get an idea of how satisfied others have been with the product and its overall quality.
The most important factor to consider when choosing a backpack is your needs and preferences. By carefully considering these factors and doing some research ahead of time, you should be able to find the right pack for your needs and budget. You can also read more about best get-home bags for your next adventure or backcountry survival pack.
Conclusion
When choosing a backpack, it’s essential to consider your needs and preferences carefully. There are many different options available on the market, so you should be able to find a pack that fits your needs and falls within your budget. Some key factors to consider when shopping for a new backpack include its capacity, dimensions, material, features, and price. By carefully researching ahead of time and considering these factors, you can find the perfect backpack that meets all your requirements and helps make your travels a little easier.
