How to choose a travel backpack?

A tourist backpack is fundamentally different from popular urban models. The main preference of this accessory is to carry a large number of things over long distances. That's why the main characteristics of the backpack must meet the requirements that can ensure ease and convenience during a long journey from place to place.

Among tourist backpacks, there are different types of backpacks: trekking, mountaineering or expedition. For regular long trips, lightweight trekking models are used, which have their own characteristics.

Rules for choosing a tourist backpack

In order to choose the right backpack for a traveler, you need to decide how long the distances will be covered, how many days you will have to travel, the terrain, and whether the product has a rigid frame.

Experts note that For your first trip, you should choose a product at the average price of the segmentto determine the features that are necessary for a particular person. The general rules for choosing a model dictate:

• a well-known brand (popular manufacturers value their reputation, so their products most often have undeniable quality, this is reflected in the price, but the result is worth it, in addition, such manufacturers usually provide a guarantee for their product);
• adjustable suspension (it is better to buy your first backpack with this option, since the body is just getting used to hiking and the need to carry a load over your shoulders; over time, the tourist will understand exactly what the height and type of fastening should be);
• quality fittings (There's nothing worse than having to repair your backpack while hiking., therefore, it is worth paying attention to everything, even the smallest details, in particular, fastenings, locks and fasteners must be of high quality and durable);
• price (You shouldn’t immediately buy the most expensive models from famous brands, they often contain too much unnecessary stuff; it’s better to pay attention to models with an average price in the segment);
• useful little things (When choosing a backpack for a hike, do not forget about useful little things that can be very useful on the road, this is a special waterproof pocket for documents, light-accumulating holders for locks and zippers on the product, reflective stripes on the body of the shoulder bag, a bottom made of waterproof material, a compartment for carrying a laptop).

Important! Before going to the store and choosing a backpack, you should study all the nuances and select several suitable models. Subsequently, with your own eyes, it will be possible to evaluate all the advantages and disadvantages of the selected products and make a final decision.

Materials, fasteners and zippers

Today, almost 90% of backpacks for hiking are made from three types of fabrics. Most often this is:

• avisent (wear-resistant and durable material, has reduced moisture resistance, so you will have to use a special raincoat);
• oxford (a pleasant to the body and light fabric, which is used for sewing almost all products in the average price range);
• cordura (has increased moisture- and frost-resistant properties, is slightly heavier than oxford, but at the same time looks very attractive, the fabric crunches a little when moving).

One of the important points is the performance and strength of zippers and fasteners.. They must be strong, since on a hike it is very inconvenient to repair backpack parts, and sometimes you don’t even have time for this.

Webbing, padding, belts

Properly selected backpack straps are 80% of the comfort on a hike. They should not be too thin, soft and well stitched. The width should be chosen exactly according to the person’s shoulders.

Beginners should choose products with adjustable elements for hanging additional items, and also pay attention to the waist belt. All parts must have an anatomical shape and fit well to the human body.

Closing flaps and internal compartments

Some models have two compartments that can be accessed independently of each other. Also, most products have a top closing flap, which helps protect things from moisture and reduces the weight of the backpack.

Models that provide separate access to each bag are very convenient. This allows you to quickly get a sleeping bag or bowlers, if necessary, without disassembling the main things.

Important! You need to select a backpack strictly in accordance with the planned trips.The number of compartments and fastening elements for various equipment depends directly on the duration and severity of the hike.

What volume and weight should I choose for a hiking backpack?

The sporting goods market offers a wide selection of products with different capacities. For each hike, the duration and complexity of which differ markedly, it is recommended to select different models:

• small (their volume reaches 40 liters, this is an ideal solution for a one-day hike, they can hold only the most necessary things in the form of a jacket, in case of cold weather, a snack, a thermos and a camera, as well as various necessary little things);
• medium (volume up to 60 liters, great for weekend trips with one or two overnight stays, such a backpack will fit a tent and a sleeping bag, but the supply of clothing and other important little things should be kept to a minimum);
• large (volume varies from 70 to 140 liters, designed for long hiking trips, can accommodate a large number of things and a supply of food, drinking water, the most equipped models can provide a completely autonomous hike for up to two weeks).

All models are light in weight, depending on the type of fabric and additional fastenings provided in the backpack. The correct distribution of the weight of an already loaded backpack depends on the adjustment and the presence of auxiliary elements.

Selecting a backpack “to fit the body”

To choose the right product, you need to try it on and walk around for 5–10 minutes. It should sit comfortably and easily on your shoulders, the straps should not move. In addition, fitting should be done on clothes that you plan to wear on a hike. It is better to try on a light T-shirt or jacket. And for a warm jacket, which you may need on a hike.

Important! The load is very important during fitting. Care should be taken to ensure that the bag is loaded to the maximum. Most sporting goods stores provide special weights for this purpose.

How to adjust a backpack for tourism?

Competent consultants in the store will be able to customize the product to the characteristics of a particular person. However, you can do this yourself, based on the following details:

• suspension system (some products are equipped with a special adjustment system that will allow you to adjust the straps exactly to size, this makes the bag a little heavier);
• adjustment straps (to reduce the weight and concentrate it on the hips, you need to try adjusting the adjustment points);
• guys at the top of the product (stripes located at the top of the bag on the straps, they prevent the top of the backpack from falling behind the body and sagging in the lower back);
• stabilizing guy lines (must be as tight as possible, located in the lower part, connecting the waist belt with the bottom of the shoulder bag);
• chest strap (connects the straps in the chest area, provides stability, this is an important accessory for hiking on uneven terrain).

Professional experts in specialized stores will help you choose the appropriate model and, if necessary, adjust it for a specific person. However, knowing the basic rules and methods of adjustment is necessary for further self-improvement.