Sapo:
Ask any seasoned or new travellers, and they will tell you the same thing: a backpack makes or break any trip. After all, it’s the reliable way to carry things around hand-free.
Everyone knows the benefits of getting one, but not many can say the same about how to choose the right backpack. Therefore, we at CabinZero are more than glad to lend you a helping hand: by providing you with the best guide to make your ideal pick.
Consider Your Needs
Determining the purpose of your backpack is important. Before going to the nearest stores and asking the clerks about their best option or best-selling bags, think about what you need.
Take a moment to ask yourself these questions (the salesperson may ask them anyways):
- Are you looking for a daypack or a larger, multi-day pack?
- How much are you willing to spend?
- How much stuff are you going to carry?
- Where are you going? What’s the climate and terrain there like?
- What activities are you going to do?
- How strong are you?
Think of the destinations and what you are going to do. A student bag should be lightweight and have a laptop pad. If you are a daring explorer, you will want something that can take a serious beating.
How To Choose The Right Backpack: Buyer’s Guide
Let gets to the boxes that your backpack of choice needs to tick. Some may regard a factor higher than others, but these are the general aspects you need to consider:
1. Checking The Comfort Level
A comfortable backpack is worth every penny you spend on it. After all, it’s something that perches on your back for weeks, months or even years. With all the right, lifting all your travel essentials will be a breeze.
Generally, you should check the fits, padding, ventilation and adjustable straps. It’s important to see if the backpack keeps your posture in check and matches your neck and shoulders’ contours.
2. Choosing Size And Capacity
A longer trip pack would require a large backpack with a volume of 50+ Litres. For most folks, a 10-30 Litre bag would do just fine. However, besides ensuring the bags fit all your items, ensure it also fits your body.
A backpack that doesn’t appropriately size is worth as much as an ill-fit pair of boots. Make sure that the torso length, shoulder strap and hip size all fit you like a glove.
3. Take A Look At The Material:
The fabric decides how durable and long-lasting your backpack is. Various materials include nylon, polyester, leather, oxford and canvas. A quality backpack is often made with nylon, ideal for outdoor use.
If you are going to the beaches or on a winter trip, we recommend opting for one that has waterproof or water-resistant material. They add an extra layer of protection under harsh weather conditions like rain and snow.
4. Additional Features Are Handy
Try living out of a backpack, and you will experience travel life differently.
There are many additional features you can consider when choosing a backpack. For instance, some come with an in-built rain cover, a laptop sleeve, or external pockets for easy access.
Most are designed to make your life easier, so it’s worth checking for them. For instance, a laptop sleeve is a good addition and a must for digital nomads and students.
5. Zippers Matter More Than You Think
Make sure to check the quality of the zippers, the most overlooked features. Use an unbranded one once, and you will know the frustration of dealing with a broken or worn-out zipper.
Generally, YKK is the most reputable and reliable one on the market. A good company will tell you the zipper brand on their product. Try to run them a few times when you get your hands on different bags, and you can tell the difference.
6. Review Your Budget
How much do you intend to spend? There are many value choices across brands. Familiarise yourself with the different features and price ranges before deciding which one to purchase.
They range from €30 to even upwards of €1,000. It depends on what you are looking for in a backpack. Will you need it for a one-off trip or one that will last a few years? Do you need such and such features? Is the limited edition worth it in your eyes?
7. Try It On
It’s crucial to put the backpack on your back to get the feel of the product. You don’t want to carry a heavy load and an uncomfortable backpack on top of it all. This is something you can do at the store. Stull it full, put it on, and try walking around to get the feel of everything.
If your desired product is unavailable at physical stores and only sells online, do some research. Try reading as many reviews as you can. In addition, asking around your friends for their experience is another good strategy.
The Best Choices For Every Occasion
Reading thus far, we believe now you can decide how to choose the right backpack. However, if you need some recommendations, we got you covered. Here are our top choices of the best gear to travel on every budget.
1. CabinZero Military Backpack 36L: Best All-Rounder For Travel
Starting at just €85, this is the definition of a steal. The CabinZero Military Backpack 36L has what it takes to be a reliable companion: heavy-duty, lightweight and comfortable to boot.
This 36L bag can house everything you need for a 3-4 day trip. The webbing in front is conveniently placed so you can hang all your necessary winter gear. If you want to horde more items, feel free to use the larger variant (44L).
Aiming for safety and security on the road, the rucksack comes with 1000D nylon fabric and a water-resistant coating. That means all your belongings will be intact, even for a multi-climate trip.
Solid, modern and practical. Invest in one quality bag such as this, and you are set for a hassle-free experience. When you want to stay intentional and conscious of how to spend your time, money and energy, this is it.
2. Herschel Heritage Backpack: Best Old-School Style Backpack
A classic-looking offer with modern touches in unexpected ways. Herschel has gone out of their way to replicate such a modern classic. There’s no style over function, as both are equally viable.
Lunch boxes, documents, books, jumpers, water bottles, etc. Herschel Heritage can handle all the essentials you want to throw into a school or work bag.
The main compartment is padded nicely, but you may need handy packing cubes to make finding things more intuitive. The bag is the master of one. It provides the most basic necessity and does so marvellously.
3. Jansport Superbreak® Plus: Great Choice For Students
A budget offering from the well-known brand of Jansport. With a volume of 26L, the whole thing is neither too big nor too small. It’s just the right size to fit all your schoolwork.
The timeless and lightweight design means this is an everyday backpack for a long time. Whether it’s a busy day or just chilling time, Jansport SuperBreak Plus is one bag you want to keep close at hand for the comfort and convenience it brings.
The Superbreak Plus has a dedicated laptop sleeve and padded straps, whereas the normal Superbreak line doesn’t. It’s worth paying a few quid more to upgrade to the Plus variant if you need that extra feature.
4. Osprey Talon 44: Best Backpack For Hiking
Any hiker would have a field day carrying Osprey Talon 44 on their back. It’s the perfect partner to trek hundreds of miles across the country.
Besides the ability to carry a heavy load, breathability and versatility are crucial. Sufficient to say this backpack excels at both. The “Airscape” system and reasonable size make it suitable for short and long trips.
If you are looking for a fully-featured backpack for various purposes, look no more. Osprey Talon 44 is a delight to carry while hiking and adventuring.
Listen To Your Heart
How to choose the right backpack? A wanderlust’s heart beats for adventure. So after considering everything and you are still unsure, listen to it. Put the backpack on, imagine travelling to every corner of the world, and see how that feels.
Going off the beaten path, striking a convo with the locals, partying, getting caught up in the presents, etc. All that moments can be enjoyed worry-free when you know your belongings are safe and sound in a great backpack.
Be sure to press the share button if you find this guide helpful. And don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments about how you picked the best backpack for yourself.
Bao Tieu
