How to Select the Right Backpack for You
- By Devendra Verma
- Published 01/19/2008
- Travel
- Unrated
If you want to be able to enjoy your outing or travel comfortably to and from school, work, or wherever you’re headed, choosing the right <a href="http://www.luggageonline.com/category.cfm?catID=4">backpack</a> for you has a lot to do with your overall contentment.
There are several different elements that you will need to consider to make the best backpack choice:
- Frame Type – the frame that you
will require depends on the activity for which you will be requiring the
backpack. If you will be skiing,
climbing, or hiking on uneven terrain, an internal-frame backpack might be
beneficial as it is close fitting and flexible. If you will be hiking on established
trails or if you need to carry heavier loads – or if you are a beginner
hiker – you will likely want an external-frame backpack as it holds more,
has greater organizational options, is less expensive, and allows for
better air circulation.
- Storage Capacity – the longer your trip will be, the more space you will require for your things. This also depends on whether you pack lightly, or if you usually bring the kitchen sink along with you everywhere you go. Overall, capacity can be gauged as follows:
* Day hike or overnight trip – 2,500 to 3,000 cubic inch backpack
* Extended trip (up to 6 days) – 5,000 cubic inch backpack or greater
- Comfort – if the backpack isn’t
comfortable, your trip can become much less enjoyable. Comfort in a backpack can be determined
through several elements such as hip-belts and chest-belts (to take the
weight off), a good suspension system (thick padding and ergonomics are
important in the straps of a backpack) and, in the case of an
internal-frame backpack, proper lumbar padding for moisture management and
air circulation.
- Features and Extras – added features such as external or detachable pockets can be very convenient, help you carry more gear, and help you keep organized. You might also enjoy features such as lash points, daisy chains, ice axe loops, as well as side-access double-zipper designs.
Ms. Bean, an avid traveler, has spent years documenting and reviewing her many adventures at home and abroad. She's written many informative articles on the best ways to get around the world.If you want to be able to enjoy your outing or travel comfortably to and from school, work, or wherever you’re headed, choosing the right <a href="http://www.luggageonline.com/category.cfm?catID=4">backpack</a> for you has a lot to do with your overall contentment.

