We choose friends ourselves, and time leaves the best. With backpacks, it’s about the same, but a little easier, since experience matters. I will share my many years of experience in this article.
Long time backpack fan
Great interest in comfortable carry-on luggage in general and in backpacks in particular appeared in 2007, when he changed his permanent job like “digging from the fence until the evening” to freelance and small business in its various manifestations. Implementation of the concept personal office always with you”started with some discreet and flat HP backpack and an LG P300 laptop, aka Zebra.
Model of such a plan, but an older model
Such a bunch pleased with a large number of pockets and pockets - we managed to carefully put an external optical drive, drive, memory, flash drives, cables and other little things in their places. But the protection of the laptop left much to be desired. The laptop literally dangled in a large pocket made of thin fabric and without a latch located inside the main compartment. No dampening material in the bottom, no frame inserts, just a bag for a laptop.
Although, the LG P300 is a rather small and plump device, and this leveled the weak physical protection of the backpack (calculated up to 17-inch models), since there was a decent distance between the outer walls and the gadget and it did not crawl from side to side. But when in 2008 I decided to change the platform to OS X and switched to a 15-inch Unibody MacBook Pro, the question of replacing the backpack arose in full growth precisely because of the weak physical protection of the laptop pocket. I was especially worried when, in the simplest situations, I slammed my laptop on hard surfaces a couple of times.
The choice fell on Logitech Kinetics, whose analogues do not exist so far. This backpack served faithfully for three years, which was written about. Then the brisk search for the perfect hand luggage began. For ten years I have experienced a couple of dozens of all kinds of backpacks and slings, gained a lot of experience in choosing this kind of accessories, which I will share below.
Looking ahead, I note that I have not yet found the perfect backpack for myself, and this is impossible in principle. After all, sooner or later, even the best thing can get bored or needs change. Accordingly, the search process is endless, but fascinating. And the more experience, the more interesting and suitable for the current realities of life things can be picked up.
Before starting, I draw your attention to the links that will be found below. They lead to personal, very detailed reviews of hand luggage, which is exemplified by one or another important feature. With the help of this article, you can quickly determine your needs, and if you want to learn more about some nuances, then click on the links.
What are backpacks
In short, small, medium, large, single strap (they are also slings) and classic with two straps. There are also specialized models with compartments for photographic equipment, skateboard holders and other features. There are also modular options that can be clearly adapted to your needs. True, they look peculiar, as they take an example from military equipment, but they are indestructible, versatile and thought out to the smallest detail. Now let's analyze all the mentioned points in more detail.
Backpack size selection
The reasonable size of a city backpack is up to 35 liters. Anything more is either for traveling or for rare EDC maniacs who carry dozens of things with them every day for all occasions, up to the zombie apocalypse.
For ease of understanding the topic, we will divide the models into large, medium and small:
- 30-35 liters;
- 23-28 liters;
- up to 20 liters respectively.
Backpacks with a volume of 30-35 liters - this is the limit for use in the urban cycle And yes, they will be large. Such an accessory is justified if you often have to go on business trips lasting up to a week, while there is no desire to clutter up your home with extra hand luggage.
The exception is models with compression straps that allow you to compact the backpack if it is half empty. An example of such - Wenger Large Volume Pack. A couple of movements and a 30-liter boar turns into a very flat (albeit rather wide) urban "two-lane".
One of my favorite backpacks, however, with its own nuances, such as a system of nested volumes and the absence of a frame (a kind of cool bag with a lot of pockets). Read the review for details:
Its anti-example is a 34 liter OGIO Renegade RSS. Even if you put only a laptop, memory, water bottle, tablet and external drive in it, the backpack will protrude like a huge hump.
On the other hand, it has a very well protected laptop compartment, a frame and a really large number of pockets and compartments, and with reasonable placement. A chic accessory for a gadget lover and a really handy hand luggage on the road. I managed only with this backpack to go on a week-long business trip to two cities at once - to Moscow and to - dragging a laptop, a healthy camera, a tablet, a couple of smartphones, a change of clothes and other little things on the road. Read more about this model here:
Another large backpack that has served me well in the urban cycle and on business trips is Thule Crossover 32L Backpack(). Among its chips, one can note a very strong, literally indestructible branded nylon, a protected compartment for glasses and delicate equipment, and an external pocket for large fleece-type items. But we'll talk about the features of this kind of accessories a little later, for now let's get back to the sizes.
Large backpacks in the vast majority of cases easily accommodate a 17 or even 18-inch laptop, plus any reasonable amount of equipment on the road. There is still room for a bottle of water, a container of food, a set of linen for 3-5 days and a change of clothes.
The most versatile models are medium-sized with a volume of 23-28 liters. In personal practice, they proved to be excellent both as a companion during short trips for a couple of days, and as a city backpack. Now I use it, but this is a very unusual thing that suits my personal needs well. True, with a laptop change, you will also have to update the backpack, which I will talk about in the chips section. Previously, a couple of years faithfully served Kata DR467i, and belongs to the same class of hand luggage.
In terms of capacity for equipment, such accessories are comparable to large models, that is, a laptop, a tablet, a large SLR camera, any electronic small things, a bottle of water, a folding umbrella will fit, and there will also be a place for a fleece if it suddenly gets hot and needs to be hidden. But you can’t take a lot of clothes or replaceable shoes with you, so such a backpack will not work on business trips for more than 2-3 days.
In addition, often mid-range models can accommodate a maximum of a 15-inch laptop. Although in most cases, more is not needed.
Small and flat backpacks up to 20 liters convenient in that they can not be removed even in public transport. Judging by personal practice, they do not interfere with people. But don't expect to stuff a 17-20 liter toddler with a lot of things.
This kind of hand luggage is good for moving a laptop, tablet, wallet and some small things between home and office, but no more. Often, even a container with food cannot be squeezed in, although a lot depends on the model.
I personally prefer compact slings, the features of which will be discussed in the next section. As for the classic double straps, out of the unusual models, I used them with the built-in proprietary GRID-IT rubber band system. An incredibly flat, high-quality and stylish accessory that can fit a lot of things... except for a container with food and even a bottle of water there is nowhere to squeeze. Yes, and there were questions about the straps, I will talk about this below.
A very pleasant and roomy model turned out to be 19-liter. It looks a little unattractive when half empty, but it is very light, comfortable on the straps, there are external mesh compartments for water bottles and small things, a protected glasses compartment, laptop and tablet pockets.
They rarely exceed 20 liters in volume, and due to their unusual shape, in most cases they can accommodate everything that may be needed in the urban wilds, from a laptop and small electronics to a large camera, a bottle of water and a container of food. With the same Thule Crossover Sling mentioned above, I went on many business trips, where I carried a large mirrorless camera, a laptop and other useful things with me. One of the reasons is the ability to quickly move the sling to the chest and get the things you need without removing it.:
And here comes an important question! And which sling should I take - left-handed or right-handed? I started my acquaintance with left-handed models (the strap hangs on the left shoulder) and for the first time I focused only on them. It was because of this that at one time I acquired a left-handed one.
By the way, the modular paramilitary models from Maxpedition are chic and indestructible, but quite heavy, and with additional body kit they are also bulky. On the other hand, in the mentioned model, supplemented with a Janus Extension Pocket bag built into the belt and a Coocoon Pouch pocket, I could carry some incredible amount of things. But I digress.
Returning to the issue of straps, I will give a simple answer - do not bother with it! It doesn't matter which shoulder the strap is on - on the left or on the right - and it doesn't matter which way the sling spins when you throw it on your chest. You get used to the new version in just an hour of using another model. I checked it on my own experience when I was able to get the coveted Thule Crossover Sling 2nd Generation(). Suddenly, he turned out to be right-handed, which scared me a little, but, I repeat, I got used to it in just an hour. Although even this handsome man did not stay with me for a long time. His place was taken Dakine HUB Sling 15L(also right-handed), which I have been using for almost a year and do not plan to change yet, but this is a separate big story, and we continue the banquet.
There is another interesting category photo backpacks, but not professional monsters for three carcasses of SLR cameras, a pair of lenses the size of a howitzer and a smaller heel caliber, and even a bunch of straps for tripods. No, we are talking about the so-called Half Photo models like Crumpler Jackpack.
Their trick is that only part of the space is allocated for photographic equipment, usually from below. Half of the volume on top can be filled with other useful things. And in the photo department, in addition to the camera, chargers, external drives, food containers and other things are perfectly placed. Due to their shape and configuration, they allow the most efficient use of the entire working volume, keeping things in order and giving quick access to the necessary equipment, whether it be a laptop or a camera. By the way, the Kata DR 467i mentioned above is from the same series. Details about all the chips of this kind of products, read the review below:
What's with the fabric?
Most backpacks are made from nylon. A good, strong and unpretentious material, but much depends on its density, weaving and impregnation.
Unnamed Chinese models for $10-20 are usually made of just "nylon" without frills. Often it is not very dense, with a loose weave (a thin fabric that is easily damaged by catching) and without protection from water. It doesn’t get wet instantly, but it’s better not to fall under the downpour with such a backpack. In general, the lion's share of the price of an accessory is its main fabric, plus accessories.
Branded models from well-known brands are created on the basis of more expensive options for high-density nylon and, sometimes, with special impregnation.
For example, there is cordura(CORDURA) from INVISTA - a very dense fabric with a special weave, water-repellent impregnation and Teflon coating. It was originally created for the military, but is now often used in civilian hand luggage. A powerful and almost indestructible material (all Maxpedition products are made of it), but rather rough to the touch. For an amateur.
There is also the so-called ballistic nylon, created several decades ago by DuPont and also for the needs of the military. It has a high density (1600D and more), good protection against water and tear resistance. In the past, they even made bulletproof vests from it. An example of a backpack made of such a fabric is this.
An interesting look of nylon - ripstop. It also has great tear resistance, is waterproof, but unlike ballistic nylon, is quite thin and very light. Folding backpacks and bags are often made from such fabric, or inserts in places experiencing great stress during operation.
Worthy alternative to nylon - polyester. The fabric with a very fine weave, has water-repellent properties, practically does not tear and does not get dirty. I also strongly recommend backpacks based on this material. A striking example is OGIO Renegade RSS.
In addition, it is worth mentioning nylon coated with thermoplastic polyurethane. It is completely waterproof, very strong, almost does not get dirty and is easily cleaned of any dirt. The Spigen SGP New Coated Backpack and the beloved Dakine HUB Sling 15L are made from this material.
Leather backpacks I don’t understand - the material is heavy, not practical, and the layout for departments of such luggage is usually very simple, like a “bag”. But status.
All sorts of exotics made of thick cotton or waxed fabric are not for everybody. But usually these backpacks are also not very practical.
Features and chips that you need to pay great attention to when choosing
Let's talk about the important little things that make up a positive (or negative) experience of using a backpack.
Webbing
The moment is very individual, because of which I highly recommend finding an opportunity to try it on before buying a backpack. For example, one of the reasons for the sale of Cocoon MCP3401 was the straps. I was ready to put up with its small volume and, just for the sake of GRID-IT, I would leave it in my personal collection and use it according to my mood.
The straps themselves are good, soft, ventilated, with comfortable strap fasteners, but they did not lie on my shoulders in any way. It will skew to the left, then to the right - uncomfortable and inconvenient, no matter how I set them up and twist them.
But when he put on the Wenger Large Volume Daypack, he lay on his shoulders like a native, gently clasping them and gently pressing against his back. The same goes for the Thule Legend GoPro. No matter how I loaded these backpacks, the shoulders were always comfortable, and the weight was almost not felt.
In general, the moment is individual, but I formed for myself a few rules high-quality straps, in addition to personal comfort, which can only be determined by directly testing the product:
- Shoulder straps should be padded and ventilated(it can be a thin pillow or perforation). The softer they are, the higher the likelihood that they will fit well on the shoulders. Although in the same Thule Legend GoPro, the straps are quite stiff, but they clearly fit my shape.
- Should have a chest strap. A very useful and invaluable accessory that allows you to significantly increase the comfort when using a backpack, especially if it is heavy due to the large number of useful things inside. The chest strap relieves the shoulders a little and fixes the straps on them better.
- Reliable clips with the ability to quickly change the length of the belt. I used to try to adjust the straps once and for all, but quickly realized that in this case it was inconvenient to remove and put on a backpack. I usually loosen the left strap as much as possible before I take off the accessory, and tighten it when I put it on. You do not have to dodge the whole body in the process. The trouble is if the latches do not hold the belt under the weight of a loaded backpack, but this is extremely rare. However, check this point when buying, if possible. It is not necessary to load a backpack, just put it on and try to stick out the straps with your hands with force.
- Shoulder pockets are usually useless, so ignore them.. There is - and it's good, no, well, okay. The problem is the bend on the shoulder - the pocket stretches and it becomes problematic to get something out of it or put it on the go.
Back
Everything is simple here - ventilation is required, whether it be built-in pads made of special fabric or special grooves. If the back of the backpack is completely flat, then your back will be constantly wet.
The exception is slings. They usually do not fit very tightly to the back and it does not sweat.
Fittings and other little things
It is highly desirable that the lightning be protected from rain. This may be a small valve above it, or a special design of the zipper itself. Waterproof models are usually turned inside out and very thin. They are rubberized. If in front of you is a simple lightning without frills, be careful - this one leaks easily under a downpour.
By the way, this is one of the rare minuses of the OGIO Renegade RSS backpack - its zippers are very strong, comfortable, large, but not at all protected from rain. And here is an example of a protected lightning in the Crumpler Jackpack Half Photo:
Pay attention to how the zippers work, how convenient it is to unfasten them (waterproof ones are usually quite tight - this is normal), whether there are rope straps that make life much easier.
Again, the difference between expensive products of famous brands from the nameless "Chinese" in fittings. High-quality models often use Japanese YKK (one of the best), reliable plastic in fastex and fasteners, and sometimes aluminum (in some Thule models).
Compression straps- also a useful addition, especially in large models of backpacks. They can also be used to fasten a jacket on the outside if it is not needed at the moment (I went to a warm supermarket, took off my outerwear and freed my hands, fixing it on a backpack).
External compartments for water bottles save a huge amount of internal space backpacks. You have to drink all the time if you want to feel good. There is no external pocket, you will have to use the main compartment, from where it is not very convenient to get water, and it’s scary if it leaks. I also carry a compact umbrella in these departments, it happens that I hide all sorts of little things there, like paper napkins, a folding shopping bag, etc.
Pen important and necessary, any - thick, thin, if only it were. As practice shows, it is extremely inconvenient to carry a backpack by the strap, even if you just need to rearrange it from place to place.
It is desirable that laptop pocket was designed as a separate space with its own zipper. In extreme cases, you need a latch of this department so that the laptop does not hang out inside.
Ideal size and format
For everyone, this question is individual, but I will share my ideal set at the moment.
Every day in the urban cycle I use a compact 15-liter Dakine sling - it is almost invisible, it holds everything I need, including a laptop, a water bottle, small electronics, there is a place for a food container and an umbrella. And in general, the volume is enough to leave home early in the morning and return full and satisfied late in the evening, without bombing cafes and restaurants during the day.
If you need to take a large camera and all the working equipment with you, or when you have to travel to another city for a day or two, then I use the Thule Legend GoPro. But, as mentioned above, it's time to change it.
The fact is that the 13-inch MacBook Pro no longer fits in the hydropack compartment, where the MacBook 12 perfectly squeezed in a case. That is, you have to hide it in a case in the main department, which takes up a lot of useful space there. I really like the protected front section, where the Sony A7i fits perfectly and from which it can be quickly removed on the go. And in general, in terms of the layout of pockets and access to them, it is excellent, but all good things come to an end sooner or later.
I am currently looking at Thule Paramount 24L Daypack and on eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack.
But I'm sure you get the basic idea. It is good to have a compact backpack for the urban cycle and a medium or large model for special occasions and trips. I have been trying for a long time to find the ideal and versatile hand luggage - there is no such thing. The proposed scheme with two backpacks is very close to ideal. It remains for everyone to choose something suitable for personal needs. The moment is difficult, but interesting. Ah, those sweet pangs of choice.
Right Choosing a travel backpack is one of the keys to a successful independent holiday. If you choose a backpack that is too large, you may encounter an excess of free space in it. By purchasing a small travel backpack, you will constantly refuse some important travel items due to the fact that they simply do not fit in such a backpack. An equally important issue in the process of choosing a backpack for travel is the fabric from which it is made: it must be strong, durable and reliably protect things from the rain. This article details the parameters that you need to pay special attention to when choosing the right travel backpack, as well as information on where you can currently buy high-quality and inexpensive travel backpacks!
THE CONTENT OF THE ARTICLE (click on the link for a quick jump)
Volume of the right backpack for travel
Since this site is intended mainly for backpackers, i.e. lovers of independent travel who prefer to book a hotel on their own and live in it, and not in a tent on the beach, then I will not dwell on huge easel backpacks with a rigid frame that can accommodate, in addition to clothes and other important things of the traveler, also a tent, cooking tiles, sleeping bag, etc. Of course, I could write about this, but I myself don’t rest like that, so information about large easel backpacks for professional tourism with a volume of 100-130 liters from my mouth will not be objective and proven in practice.
If you prefer to stay in normal hotels with all amenities during your travels, then you don’t need a large backpack, as well as a large number of things. Moreover, the smaller the backpack and its weight on your back, the more comfortable your journey will be and the more mobile you will be on your trips. Numerous travelers have long been convinced that the optimal volume of a backpack for a standard independent trip is 30-35 liters. Choosing just such a backpack will allow you to move around without undue stress on the muscles of the back and neck.
Someone may argue that even a larger backpack can fit a few things, not until it is completely full. But in practice, the temptation to take something superfluous on the road (which is not really necessary, but fits into the free space of a backpack) is so great that it is sometimes impossible to resist. Now there are many high-quality and not too expensive backpacks with flexible built-in carbon fiber frames, which are very light and durable, while effectively unloading the back muscles and not hinder movement even in the most difficult conditions. 
The choice of a tourist backpack with a volume of 30-35 liters allows, in addition to convenience, to save money on air travel: by correctly choosing the weight of your backpack and choosing the right list of things for the trip, you can refuse to put things in luggage. Free placement of a medium-sized backpack in hand luggage is allowed by the overwhelming number of airlines, while you protect yourself from the loss of luggage, its opening by unscrupulous airport employees or damage as a result of careless handling of the suitcase by these same employees.
Finally, taking a backpack in hand luggage saves valuable travel time, because immediately after passing through passport control (and customs, if any), you can immediately go to your destination without waiting for your baggage claim line to arrive. . For example, or use one of the methods that allow
The fabric of a good travel backpack
A good travel backpack should have good moisture resistance, especially if you are planning to do your first or next trip. independent travel to thailand or another country with a humid tropical climate. Of course, a good backpack does not have to be 100% waterproof - if you can find one, it will be at a very high price. However, before buying a backpack, you need to make sure that it is made from high-quality fabric with a special silicone or polyurethane coating (denoted by PU), or has a special cover that protects against rain. Such backpacks are able to stay in the rain for a long time without the danger of damaging things with water (although I still don’t advise specifically checking this in practice).
Manufacturers of quality backpacks for travel have long abandoned the once common tent fabric and tarpaulin. These materials have been replaced by materials such as avizent (aviation tarpaulin) and cordura (thick nylon with a water-repellent coating). Both materials combine such important parameters for the manufacture of backpacks as strength and lightness, while the materials are very resistant to rotting and getting wet. Also, you should always pay attention to the seams of the backpack: the option with fewer of them on the product is preferable, because the seams are more prone to tearing than the fabric itself. An additional indicator of the quality of the backpack is the presence of a double seam, which is covered with a special tape. This not only guarantees better rain protection, but greater durability. 
Travel backpack accessories
Since during any trip you will most likely have to open and close your backpack daily and many times, its fasteners should inspire reliability and confidence that the zipper will not open at the most inopportune moment. It is advisable to choose zippers with large and strong teeth, it seems that they are called "tractor" because of the similarity with the tread of the wheels of these machines. In any case, you should not stuff so many things into a backpack that it is difficult to fasten it, because this will definitely not extend the life of either it or the clasps.
It is desirable that there are two zippers ("dogs") on the zipper of the main compartment, which can be fastened together with a lock and protect the backpack from easy opening by unauthorized persons. So far (pah-pah) nothing has been stolen from my backpacks for 8 years of their use even without this method of protection, but caution never hurts, especially if you plan to carry a laptop, an expensive tablet, a phone or a collection of family jewels in a backpack, while leaving it all in questionable security lockers.
Multiple compartments in backpack
In good travel backpack there must be several compartments. This, firstly, allows you to distribute the weight more correctly, and, secondly, it helps to quickly find the things you need at a particular moment. Especially if you develop the habit of always putting certain things in a particular compartment. For example, I have 4 compartments in my backpack. In the largest one, it is convenient to store clothes and dry rations for the journey, in the smaller one - documents (passport, insurance for outdoor activities, maps of the country or city, for example, a map of Pattaya with tuk-tuk routes), as well as a tablet, cosmetic bag and first aid kit on the road. In additional small pockets I store a camera in my purse, a phone and chargers for all gadgets, as well as other little things. 
Some people advise choosing backpacks with a mesh side pocket for a water bottle, but I'm not a fan of this option. If you can still carry a bottle outside your backpack when traveling in Europe, then I don’t see the point in this when traveling in hot countries: the water will instantly heat up and become nasty to drink. Therefore, it is better to wrap the bottle tightly in a towel and hide it in the backpack itself. You can also do with a bottle of cold. Travel backpacks are now on sale with special compartments for wet clothes, which sometimes allows you to keep important things dry and not use additional bags / bags that can leak at the most inopportune moment.
Waistband and wide shoulder straps
Since a significant part of the weight of a travel backpack falls on the hips, it would not be out of place to look at a model with a hip belt, which should provide additional muscle relief. The right hip belt in a backpack should be moderately stiff, but soft to the touch, not too narrow and too wide, and also have adjustments to fit it to a specific figure. I have been using backpacks without a hip belt for many years, but the next one will definitely be with him, because. Having tried it once, I was convinced that this is a very convenient and useful thing.
Quality webbing travel backpack should have a width of at least 6 cm, because it is the wide straps that allow you to effectively distribute the weight load on the shoulders, making them more uniform. Narrow shoulder straps, combined with the heavy weight of the backpack, will cause you a lot of suffering, as they will cut into your shoulders, and too wide ones will create discomfort for your neck. The straps themselves should be strong enough, but lined with thick, soft and durable padding that will protect your shoulders from chafing. I think it’s not even worth reminding that the fastening of the straps to the backpack itself should be extremely strong and reliable.
Back ventilation system
Even a backpack weighing 8-10 kg behind your back can cause a lot of inconvenience during long walks in a hot climate. The indicated weight is enough for the travel backpack to be tightly pressed to the back of the tourist, blocking the access of air to the latter. As a result, the back begins to sweat profusely, leading to premature fatigue and ruining clothes. This problem can be avoided by purchasing a travel backpack model with a back ventilation system. Its essence lies in the fact that a special mesh stretched on the back surface of the backpack fits close enough to the back, while maintaining the space between the wall of the backpack itself and the back necessary for high-quality ventilation.
The price of a good travel backpack
Quality travel backpacks that meet all of the above requirements can't be cheap, which is why they cost around $100 or more in travel stores. On the one hand, this amount may seem large enough for a backpack. But it should be remembered that a quality thing will serve you for many years, faithfully helping you in your travels, so the indicated price should no longer seem so high. And in the budget of even one trip, this amount, in principle, is not so large, especially if you managed to save money and 
Of course, you can also purchase a more affordable backpack that will be relatively good and will also fulfill its role without any problems, but often in this case you have to make some kind of compromise: the need to separately purchase a protective rain cover, the absence of a hip belt, small number of compartments, not very good quality locks, etc. Alternatively, you can order a backpack for traveling in China on a specialized website, but no one guarantees whether the product that arrived by mail will be the way you imagined it.
Also, I personally think that spending too much on a backpack also does not make sense. Often, the high cost is caused by the presence of “bells and whistles” that are practically useless for independent travelers in the form of light reflectors, signal whistles, a cunning drinking system, a built-in compass, first aid kit, etc. Also, the price is often overstated only because of the fame of the manufacturer of backpacks. Speaking of brands: high-quality travel backpacks are produced by German companies Vaude, Deuter, Jack Wolfski, American Osprey, North Face, English Berghaus, etc.
Inexpensive travel backpack - how to choose?
Due to the not very favorable economic situation, many travelers are interested in the opportunity to buy a travel backpack at a low price. But again, due to this very economic situation and the current USD and Euro exchange rates, many popular brands of high-quality backpacks in stores in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and Kazakhstan, as well as on Ebay and Amazon Internet sites, have become very expensive. And today it is almost impossible to buy a good model of a tourist backpack with a volume of 30-40 liters for less than $110-140 at the exchange rate. For example, the High Peak San Pedro 28 host backpack is about $110, and the backpack I currently use on my travels, the Deuter Trans Alpine 30, is about $120 (I managed to get it for 86 USD due to the exchange rate of the Russian ruble in January 2016).
However, there is good news: in the last couple of years, Chinese brands have been very active. In general, there has never been a shortage of backpacks from China, but the quality of such products left much to be desired for a very long time. Of course, even today on Aliexpress and in numerous online stores of China and now 80% of backpacks can rather be attributed to "disposable products" that can fail at the most crucial moment. And such a purchase will not please you at all on the journey, sometimes overshadowing it and making it more difficult and not at all comfortable. Unfortunately, the situation is aggravated by the fact that by the end of 2018, a lot of outwardly beautiful backpacks appeared at a price of 15-20 USD, which at first glance seem to be very strong and reliable products. And it seems that according to the first customer reviews, everything is OK, but after a very short use, some add information to the reviews that the fabric was not waterproof, and there is no rain cover, and the straps come off after a week of everyday use, and the headset breaks very quickly. Those. behind the external beauty was a completely ordinary product, which can only serve as a city backpack. Those. this is not the kind of travel backpack that will last a long time and never let you down.
Unfortunately, I myself had such a bad experience: in 2014 I bought a Chinese backpack in Bangkok for only 25 USD, hastily ignoring all the tips for choosing a quality travel backpack that I shared in this article. Outwardly, the backpack looked decent, and I sincerely hoped that it would last at least a couple of years. As a result, the backpack turned out to be terribly uncomfortable, of poor quality and flimsy - on the very first day of use, I had to resort to a needle and thread to sew on the detached straps. I’m definitely not going to step on this rake again and I don’t advise anyone. Unfortunately, a high-quality durable backpack cannot be cheap. And even if outwardly the product seems very reliable and thoughtful, somewhere the manufacturer made a compromise: he used low-quality fittings, saved on fabric or lining material, refused double seams, etc.).
However, not everything is so bad, and at the time of updating this article (2018), several Chinese brands appeared that produce quite good products at a low price, which is 2-2.5 times lower than the price of well-known brands from Europe and the USA. One side. This is not surprising, because the production of the latter is often organized in China or other Asian countries (for example, my Deuter Trans Alpine 30 has long been sewn not in Germany, but in Vietnam under the control of the Germans). At the end of this article, I made a small selection of inexpensive travel backpacks (priced at 40-60 USD), which you can buy on Aliexpress with free delivery to your city. For your convenience, along with the description, links to trusted sellers will be placed (with a good reputation and positive feedback on the proposed models of travel backpacks). As you can see, these are backpacks with a capacity of 40 liters or more, though one important point should be taken into account: even “branded” Chinese backpacks have a slightly smaller volume than the volume declared in the specifications.
For example, travel backpacks with a volume of 40 liters in reality have a usable volume of about 30 liters. That is, it is advisable not to consider at all for the purchase of products whose declared volume is less than 40 liters. In my selection are just such backpacks. But if you want to look for other options, keep that in mind. And of course, be sure to take into account the compliance of the models with the criteria indicated in this article: fabric, the presence of high-quality fittings, many compartments, wide straps, a hip belt, a back ventilation system, a rain cover, etc. I will not publish all photos and descriptions - if you wish, you can see the full characteristics and photos of models in various colors by clicking on the links.
A selection of inexpensive travel backpacks (2018)
1. ( )
This inexpensive backpack (3100 RUR) is a very thoughtful and high-quality product that has received many excellent reviews from buyers from all over the world. The backpack is available in two versions: 40 and 50 liters. The first option is more popular among travelers of both sexes and has a real volume of just over 30 liters, i.e. its dimensions allow you to carry a backpack in hand luggage. The 50 liter option actually has a volume of about 40 liters and is more suitable for male travelers. All backpack options are made of water-repellent fabric (nylon) and are additionally equipped with a built-in rain cover. The advantage of the backpack is good lumbar and chest support, which makes it easy to carry your things while traveling, as well as a removable back ventilation system.
Buy better at
In 2018, the model was further improved and equipped with a removable dump frame - strong and lightweight. As a result, the back, when carrying even a heavy backpack, practically does not get tired. The backpack has many pockets and compartments, which allows you to conveniently organize the storage of your things, and there are also special straps on the outside for attaching a sleeping bag, tent or outerwear. More than 400 buyers ordered a backpack from this seller (and this is the official store of the manufacturer, so you can not be afraid of fakes) and the majority gave the product the highest rating. The store offers all customers to choose a gift: a bracelet or a whistle (can be attached to a backpack). The cost of a backpack periodically rises to 70-80 USD, so at a higher price, you should wait a few days before the next discount.
2. Travel backpack MauuntainTop 40L(not available )
This 40-litre travel backpack may sound familiar to many, as it looks very much like the Futura 28 backpack from the well-known German brand Deuter. At the same time, the Chinese company VANDRERE, which is the manufacturer of this product, tried to achieve not only external similarity, but also functionality. As a result, for a very affordable price, everyone can become the owner of a good backpack with an excellent back ventilation system, orthopedic straps, lumbar support, a built-in rain cover and many compartments that contribute to a more competent packing of your things while traveling. The backpack is made of wear-resistant fabric and equipped with special straps. with which you can attach additional items to the backpack or reduce the volume of the backpack when carrying a small amount of things. (Like its German inspiration) this inexpensive travel backpack has side mesh pockets on the outside. Please note that this backpack should be purchased during the promotion, which is held regularly by this seller (stated "full price" is about 80 USD). Buyers are satisfied with this backpack, although they note that its capacity is tymit declared 40 liters (approximately, like the Futura 28 model, it is about 30 liters. Also note that in the photos of buyers in the reviews, the color of the backpacks of this model is calmer, not acid, as in promo photos.
3.
This versatile 40-litre travel backpack is branded Maleroads, but in this case, the brand name does not mean that this backpack is exclusively for male travelers. The actual capacity of the backpack is just over 30 liters, and the design and available colors make sure that this backpack is unisex. By the way, photos of the backpack also make sure that it looks equally good on both the male and female backs. The product is equipped with soft and wide straps, high-quality lumbar support and support in the chest area (this thin strap in reality allows you to significantly relieve the muscles of the neck and back). For comfortable wearing of this backpack while traveling to hot countries, it is equipped with a modern back ventilation system. Numerous pockets inside and outside of the product contribute to the convenience of using the backpack on trips. There are even pockets with fasteners on the lumbar support, where it is convenient to store various small things (for example, coins). On the sides of the backpack there are traditional wide pockets in which you can carry water bottles or other not too valuable items that need to be quickly accessed. The seller of the backpack is a trusted store with three years of experience and more than 99% positive feedback. As a gift, the original whistle is attached to the backpack. It is better to purchase this backpack for travel during the periods of 30% discount, which the seller arranges regularly.
P.S. If you don't already know how to find out the real price of goods on AliExpress, check out this free information, which will allow you to save a lot of money when choosing and buying travel backpacks or other goods on this Internet site.
Hope this article helps you choose a quality backpack for travel, which will properly perform the functions assigned to it, will be convenient and durable, and will also make your trip as comfortable as possible!
When planning a trip, you should know one golden rule: a good backpack and good shoes are the key to your vacation. Good shoes will help you walk more and see more new places, while a quality backpack will help you on your daily hikes and trips.
So, are you thinking about buying a backpack? From which side to approach it?
This article will focus on a travel backpack that will help you travel. But first, I'll tell you our story. Going to our first with Maxim, we went to a tourist shop. We stood in front of huge shelves of backpacks, burying our noses in them and trying to choose something. Of course, the price-quality ratio mattered to us! We have reviewed a lot of backpacks. One was not very comfortable, the other was made of poor fabric. But still the choice was made. In my hands I held two backpacks: one deuter and the second terra incognita (manufacturer Ukraine). Arriving home, I checked the backpack that was intended for me (terra incognita) for capacity and it immediately broke. The seams just started coming apart. Either I'm unlucky or the company is like that. Perhaps I was unlucky and got a marriage, which is available in all companies, but I had to take the backpack back and change it for a second deuter (deuter futura for 22 liters).
Three years have already passed, and our backpacks serve us faithfully. This is not advertising at all, but our experience.
What size backpack to choose
Backpack size matters. Everything depends on your needs. If you are a backpacker or you are going on a hike for a long time then you should consider backpacks of 50 liters or more.
If you are traveling with a suitcase and your task is to move from point A to point B, then a backpack of 20-25 liters will suit you. Such a backpack will help you carry your laptops and devices in hand luggage, and it will also help you out on daily excursions.
If you choose a backpack in order to put your phone, some water and a couple of sandwiches in it, then an urban-type backpack of 10-13 liters will suit you.
Which company to choose a backpack
When considering travel backpacks, we chose from deuter, alpine, terra incognita, marmot, osprey and tatonka. But when choosing a backpack for yourself, you should know a few important things that your future assistant should have:
1. Your backpack should have side pockets. I use them all the time, often there is a bottle of water.
2. The backpack should have several departments. This will help organize your things and you will know what is where.
3. The presence of an external pocket is of no small importance. I keep small things and keys in it (on a special hook for keys).
4. Such a thing as a secret pocket. Not all backpacks have it, but here is a 25L deuter trans alpine. got such a little thing and placed it in the department near the back. When traveling, a pocket helps out, where you can hide money.
5. Your backpack must have a frame. What it will be iron or fabric, you choose. It is best to try on a backpack to understand which one suits you best. What is a frame for? Firstly, the frame gives additional rigidity to the whole structure, and secondly, it is the gap between your back and the backpack itself, thus creating a ventilated space and your back will not sweat much. My backpack is iron framed and I really like it.
6. The backpack must have hip straps. If you are carrying a heavy backpack on your shoulders, then these straps will help distribute all the weight on your body and you will not burden your back.
7. Pay attention to the shoulder straps, they should not be too wide and not too narrow. An average of 6-7 cm. So a heavy backpack will not dig into your body.
8. One of the most important things in a backpack is a rain cover. It will save your things from rain and even downpour. We use the carpet often and are very pleased that it is. I don't even know what we would do without him. Such a carpet is neatly folded and hidden in a special section.
The most recognizable attribute of a tourist or traveler anywhere in the world is, of course, a backpack. In addition to the identification function, this wonderful thing is able to accommodate all the necessary devices for hiking and other adventures.
Choosing a backpack is not the most tricky thing at first glance, but those who have already felt an uncomfortable burden on themselves look at it with different eyes. If you choose a receptacle for all things for a multi-day trip, then the reliability and comfort of the design are very important. If you are walking around the city or running through the forest, then it is good to have convenient pockets for keys, phone and other small things. In general, as with any travel equipment, the variety of shapes, sizes and tricky devices for backpacks is great. And now let's take everything in order.
- Backpack fit
Main types
Soft
With The simplest backpack without hard elements. As a rule, it has a container for carrying things directly and shoulder straps to carry it behind your back. Everything else depends on the imagination of the developers. Their application is walks around the city, business trips, small outings into nature. The main advantages: lightness, compactness, quick access to any little things and the ability to roll it up to pack, for example, in a travel bag. Cons, respectively, - a small capacity and calculation only for small weights. soft structures also used for large trips,until they figured out how to make a frame and a waist belt. Although even now an inexpensive expeditionary backpack may not have a frame; it is worth buying such in our time only because of the austerity of money.
Skeleton or anatomical
os the newest and most popular type of construction for tourism and travel. Such a backpack has a rigid or semi-rigid frame, which retains the shape of the back of the backpack, regardless of its filling, and also distributes the load along the back. The belt in such a system plays an important role - most of the weight is transferred to it from the shoulders. The rigidity of the frame is given by various materials. Depending on the design, this can be a light semi-rigid plate along the back, aluminum armor or bars of complex shapes. All this diversity serves two purposes: back comfort and weight distribution.
easel
AT past - the main type of backpacks for carrying large loads. The main element in it is a frame, mostly U-shaped, with shoulder straps. And already anything is suspended from the frame itself: for example, Sherpas in the Himalayas manage to tie huge barrels of provisions to an easel backpack. This design is successfully used in highly specialized areas, for example, in speleotourism, where narrow moisture-resistant trunks are suspended from the frame. Nowadays, some manufacturers began to revive the forgotten design and develop modern frames to which various bags can be hung. As a result, they get a backpack that looks like a regular frame.
Main characteristics
Volume
Volume - one of the few characteristics that is indicated on the backpack. Often this is the number after the name of the backpack, it measured in liters. For the city and short outings, as a rule, backpacks up to 30 liters are recommended. For weekend trips or hiking, backpacks are chosen on average from 30 to 70 liters. Anything above 70 liters suggests multi-day hikes or expeditions, and they are called, respectively, "expeditionary" or "trekking". But these are all general recommendations; when choosing a displacement, you must take into account your personal needs.
An example from personal experience: My first trip to Altai, I don’t really have my own equipment. Father's four-man tent, a sleeping bag - cheap and very large, without a compression bag, several warm jackets, etc. and all this, multiplied by two, because girl with me. As a result, the Nova Tour Tibet 100 backpack is packed to capacity, and even from the outside it weighs a lot of equipment.
About ten years have passed, we are collecting a backpack before going to the Caucasus. The set is about the same, only the tent is much smaller and lighter, the sleeping bag is modern, it compresses very well, instead of a large boiler - a compact burner, one warm fleece jacket with thermal underwear, etc. again we go together. But this time, the new Deuter Aircontact 75 + 10 backpack has to be pulled from all sides so that the load does not hang out inside, and even nothing hangs outside.
Thus, determining the required volume:
- evaluate what you have to pack in a backpack, instead of choosing it based on the recommendations of the volume for a particular trip.
- keep in mind that manufacturers do not measure displacement quite accurately and in different ways, and especially hack-workers can generally do it by eye. Someone includes all pockets in measurements, someone writes an extension valve in the total figure; while others write a prefix (75+15 in a deuter backpack where +15 is the size of the extendable top flap). Thus, you will not be able to correctly compare two backpacks from different manufacturers, but it will be much easier to figure out the model range of one company.
So, after the first hike, I had thoughts about a hundred and forty liter (!) backpack. But after many years I bought a lot of modern compact and light equipment (and with experience I simply stopped taking something with me). Now I pick up for myself, in addition to a large cargo backpack, a second lightweight one, for those cases when we go together, with a volume of about 60 liters. As you can see, more than a twofold difference in volume, and the purpose has not changed much.
If you are joining an organized group, some of the public equipment and provisions will most likely be added to your personal belongings. In this case, before making a final choice of a backpack, be sure to coordinate this issue with the organizer.
materials
All other characteristics indicated on labels or price tags will consist of the names of various suspension systems and materials. There is a generalized one on our blog, so we will not dwell on this now. Suffice it to say that the strength of the fabric and its weight are important, less often - moisture resistance. The materials of the straps, waist belt and other parts adjacent to the body should be as comfortable and well ventilated as possible for you. And do not forget to check the quality of accessories.
suspension system
If we talk about suspension systems, then for most companies you will see their loudly speaking names, but often the principle will not be much different. When choosing, you should pay attention to the possibility of adjustments - so you definitely will not miss the size. An important point is the adjustment of the distance between the waist belt and the shoulder straps, which allows you to correctly position the belt just above the hip, on the protruding part. Shoulder straps take precedence over the S-shape, which prevents slipping off the shoulders. In addition to this, a chest strap is attached to the straps - it must also be adjustable in height and width and have a sewn-in rubber compensator that softens the pressure on the chest when breathing.
Weight
Backpack weight - also an important feature , but, for example, in an expeditionary backpack, a lot of weight is compensated by a well-thought-out load distribution system, and a too light weight carrier should be slightly alarming. Find out about the weight, but at this point you should not make the final choice because of the difference in a couple of tens of grams.
Lotions
We got acquainted with the main elements, now let's move on to other amenities that manufacturers come up with for us.
rain cape- made of moisture-resistant materials, prevents getting wet, both the backpack itself and attachments, protects from dust and dirt. Usually the cape is bright in color, which makes the backpack even more visible from afar. If it was not included with the selected backpack, it can be purchased separately.
Additional pockets- can be located almost everywhere: on the waist belt (convenient for small things, accessible without removing the backpack), mesh on the sides (for water or long items), on the front side (notebook cards and other small things, come with a special organizer), on the shoulder straps (for a phone, glasses or navigator), on the top flap (both inside and outside, for essentials), you can also highlight the inner pocket, which is located in the main compartment, closer to the back (usually suitable for a flask of a drinking system, or can serve as a pocket for wet things).
Entrance to the main compartment in the classic version on top. Often the main container is divided into two parts, supplementing the system with a lower entrance. A little less often they make an entrance on the front side, so the backpack opens completely, like a travel suitcase. Even more rarely, entrances are from the sides (for example, the American Gregory Whitney 90) and even from the back (like a BASK BERG 60 or 100 backpack).
Attachments for equipment suspension- are located on any elements of the backpack and perform various functions. Simple ties, for example, for fixing a rug or tent. Many different in concept, but identical in purpose, mounts for ice axes or sticks. There are backpacks with special fasteners for skis, snowboards and other equipment for ski tours. Or simply buckles reinforced with a strong seam, to which you can attach anything.
And many others, often just pleasant trifles, which a good consultant in the store will tell you about. For example, a rigid plastic semi-circular insert on the top of the backpack's suspension system, which, when fully loaded, gives free space between the back of the head and the backpack. Or small Velcro at the ends of the lines, thanks to which the dangling ends can be rolled up. All these are trifles, but they can persuade you to choose one or another model.
Which brand of backpacks are best?
Better or worse, the final decision, of course, is up to you, but on my own I can advise the following:
The most advanced firms in the high price category : Deuter, Arc "teryx, Gregory, Osprey, Tatonka, Jack Wolfskin, The North Face, Lowe Alpine, Marmot, Vaude. These companies will satisfy the most fastidious and selective individuals and those who vitally need maximum comfort and reliability; but their price is literally scares away novice travel enthusiasts.
Cheap backpacks: There are a lot of firms aimed at the lowest price category, for example, in our city, Ural Expedition packs are the most popular. The same cheap and, unfortunately, not very high-quality backpacks are produced by almost every company in the slightest degree connected with tourist equipment. All of them have one big plus - the price, and as for the rest, then how lucky. It is impossible to be sure that such a bag with straps will not fall apart during the passage of a difficult pass.
Let's go to choice
We have analyzed everything you need to know about a backpack, now we will formulate a short instruction for choosing.
- Determine the purpose of the backpack, versatility in this case can cost you dearly, and either in terms of money or in decent discomfort.
- First try to collect other equipment necessary for the journey, in order to imagine how large a backpack is needed, and what specific things will have to be packed in it.
- Determining the category of backpacks, compare several models from different manufacturers.
- If this is not an online store, then be sure to try on the backpack, and ask him to load something well.
- At the last stage find out more details: firstly, it will help to make the final choice, and secondly, some little things can greatly facilitate the use of a backpack, which the owners do not always know about, even after walking hundreds of mountain kilometers.
Backpack fit
It also happens that none of the duffel bags you choose wants to sit comfortably on your back. The reason for this may be incorrect adjustment of the suspension system and straps. And here is a little guide on the subject:
- Be sure to load your backpack try to do it evenly, so that nothing dangles inside and does not outweigh in different directions.
- Adjust the height of the shoulder straps(if possible) according to the recommended values \u200b\u200bfor your height, or so that the center of the waist belt falls on the protruding part of the pelvic bones, and the fastening of the straps to the backpack are in the area of \u200b\u200bthe middle of the shoulder blades.
- Loosen all straps and straps before putting on the backpack.
- Tighten your belt first, tight enough that most of the weight is transferred to it. It is also not worth tightening too tight, it can make it difficult to breathe and hamper movement.
- Further, from bottom to top, evenly, tighten all other straps, so as to remove the free play, trying not to overtighten them.
The result is simple - you should be comfortable, if something is wrong, repeat the procedure until the best result is achieved.
A little tip: under load, loosening a regular webbing is quite easy, just lift the buckle from one end, creating an angle close to a right between it and the webbing.
That's all, good luck with your choice, and most importantly, as many new trips as possible with a backpack on your back!