When you are planning for a trip either in the Europe or Asia either solo hiking or trekking you need a backpack. You have to take some of your personal belongings and some very important things like passport, medicine, travel ticket, travel guidebook and so on. So to pack all these things you need actually 2 bag. A waterproof travel backpack for clothes, shoes, medicine and other personal belongings which you can call a travelers backpack. And a small waist bag for passport, travel ticket and other small gadgets which you can always keep with you.
Today I am going to help you to choose the best travel backpack for your happy traveling. Either you want a small outdoor backpack or camping and hiking backpack read this till the end and trust me you will get a good idea how to choose the right backpack for your need.
Choosing the right backpack for travel depends on several factors to ensure comfort, durability, and convenience during your trip. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Consider the Type of Trip
Weekend Trip / Short Travel: A carry-on size (20-30L) backpack may suffice for a minimalist travel packing. It’s small, light, and perfect for a few days away.
Longer Trip (1 week or more): A medium to large (40-65L) backpack is ideal, allowing you to carry more items while still being manageable.
Adventure / Trekking Travel: If you’re planning outdoor activities like hiking or trekking, consider a rugged, specialized hiking backpack with hydration systems, support, and reinforced areas.
- Fit and Comfort
Adjustable Straps: Ensure the shoulder straps, hip belt, and sternum straps are adjustable to fit your body size. Comfort is crucial, especially for long days of carrying.
Back Panel Design: Look for a padded, breathable back panel to reduce sweating and increase comfort. Some backpacks have a suspended mesh back panel for airflow.
Weight Distribution: A well-designed backpack should transfer weight from your shoulders to your hips. A good hip belt can make a huge difference in reducing shoulder strain.
- Capacity (Volume)
Carry-on Compliance: If you prefer to travel light and avoid checked luggage, look for backpacks that fit airline carry-on size restrictions (usually around 22″ x 14″ x 9″ or 55 x 35 x 23 cm).
Pack Volume: For a comfortable and versatile trip, 30-50L should be adequate. Larger sizes are for more extensive trips, but keep in mind the more space you have, the more you’ll tend to pack.
- Organization
Compartments: Look for multiple compartments to organize clothing, electronics, toiletries, and other essentials. A front-loading design is better than a top-loader for easy access.
Laptop Sleeve/Tech Pockets: If you’re carrying electronics, make sure the backpack has a padded sleeve for your laptop/tablet and designated spots for chargers and cables.
Expandable Sections: Some backpacks offer zippers that let you expand the pack’s capacity if needed.
- Durability and Material
Water Resistance: A water resistant travel backpack or waterproof backpack is essential for protecting your belongings from rain. Look for packs with water-resistant zippers or a built-in rain cover.
Material: Opt for high-quality, durable fabrics such as nylon, polyester, or ripstop. These are tough and resistant to wear and tear.
Weatherproofing: Some backpacks are made with weatherproof zippers and sealed seams to protect against moisture. If traveling to rainy regions, this is a feature to look for.
- Security Features
Lockable Zippers: If you’re concerned about theft, choose a backpack with lockable zippers or hidden pockets for valuables.
RFID Protection: Some backpacks have RFID-protected pockets to keep your credit card and passport information safe from digital theft.
- Style and Design
Versatility: Consider how the backpack looks and whether it’s suitable for different environments. A neutral or sleek design works well for both city exploration and nature hikes.
Daypack Option: Some travel backpacks offer a detachable daypack for daily excursions or short trips.
- Additional Features
Hydration System: If you’re hiking or trekking, a hydration-compatible backpack with a water reservoir can be a lifesaver.
Compression Straps: These help to reduce the bulk of your pack when not full, keeping it compact and easier to manage.
Compression / Travel Straps: Perfect for attaching gear like trekking poles, jackets, or sleeping mats to the outside of your pack.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews
Research trusted travel brands that are known for making quality, durable backpacks like North Face, Osprey, Deuter, REI, Mystery Ranch and Patagonia travel backpack.
- Budget
A higher price tag often means better build quality, comfort, and features. However, there are also affordable options that offer great value for the price. Decide on your budget and prioritize key features accordingly. But I suggest not to spend more than 200$ for a backpack.
By considering these factors and determining your specific needs, you’ll be able to choose a travel backpack that suits your journey perfectly! I am presenting you some of my favorite backpack that will fit all the above criteria. Here I am trying to present you some small backpack which you can take for a weekend tour. And some large 60 to 65 liter backpack which is your hiking picnic backpack. All these backpack are water resist, so no worries to take them in hiking in the rain or hiking in snow.
- Osprey Talon 36L Backpack
- Osprey Viva 65 Extended Fit
- Osprey Viva 65
- Mystery Ranch Superset 32 Daypack
- Mystery Ranch Saddle Peak
- Mystery Ranch Coulee 40
- Deuter Aviant Duffel Pro 60
- The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel – 42L
- REI Stout 60 Pack
- REI Trail 25 Pack
- REI Traverse 32 Pack – Men’s
- Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L
- Patagonia Terravia Pack 36L
- The North Face Women’s Jester Luxe Backpack
- The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel – 62L
Bonus: Some waist bag or crossbody bag
