A suitcase on wheels is a symbol of comfortable travel. But its convenience ends with a flat surface. Cobblestones in the streets of historic cities, gravel or sandy paths that can suddenly appear on the approach to the hotel, and, finally, steep and sometimes spiral staircases in old houses without elevators turn walking with a heavy suitcase into a nightmare. That's where the backpack comes to the rescue! Let's find out how to choose the perfect one.
What size backpack to choose for traveling
Backpack capacity is expressed in liters. There is an extensive selection of sizes available from all manufacturers.
Ten to thirteen liter backpacks are the smallest. A smartphone or tablet, power bank or charger, wallet, paperwork, water bottle, sweatshirt, umbrella, map, or guidebook can all be conveniently stored in them. If you carry your main suitcase in the luggage, a backpack like this can be used as hand luggage for short journeys to the countryside or for city excursions.
You can also bring a small, but already substantial, 25–30 liter backpack inside the cabin. It has enough room to fit a laptop and supplies for a few days. One traveler's suitcase-sized hand luggage can be easily replaced with a backpack of this kind. If you spent several days in the countryside, this is a great choice. And with it, you may explore the city without bothering to check into a hotel for clothes or other necessities.
Real backpackers use backpacks with a capacity of more than 50 liters for extended travels and strenuous hiking.
How much does a backpack weigh
If weight is important to you and you're counting every pound for an impending trip, a backpack works well in comparison to a suitcase. A backpack is always lighter than an empty suitcase. Even a large rucksack rarely weighs more than one kilogram, despite the fact that most luggage weigh approximately three and a half kilos and pricey, lightweight ones weigh approximately two kilograms.
What to look for when choosing a backpack for traveling
Even though you may occasionally cheat and use a suitcase instead of a backpack, a nice backpack is an essential tool for anyone who travels extensively. We don't talk about the backpack's high-quality materials, seams, zippers, and fasteners because they are evident. Examine with your eyes, touch with your hands, and consult the vendors.
A backpack is more convenient the more side pockets and compartments it has. You can store little goods that would be hard to find in the main compartment as well as objects that you think might be useful when traveling and should always be close at hand in them. Be alert for the existence of a hidden pocket.
A big backpack needs to fit snugly on the back. It is crucial that the frame is comfortable for you, whether it is made of fabric, plastic, or even iron. Concave backrest backpacks, which hold roughly 20 liters of gear, are useful for summertime cycling and trekking because they reduce perspiration on the back and better distribute the weight on the spine.
Thin shoulder straps on a hefty backpack will dig into your shoulders; thicker shoulder straps are recommended. help sure the backpack has hip straps if it's roomy and can accommodate a lot of items; they help carrying a heavy load simpler.
How to protect your belongings
Good modern backpacks are either treated with special chemicals or composed of nearly waterproof fabric. However, the cloth will still get wet in a strong downpour. External cover will help protect the bag and its contents from the rain and robbers.
Compared to passengers with baggage, backpackers are less likely to draw the notice of burglars and crooks. Additionally, it is more difficult to search through a backpack in an airport luggage area than it is to search through a suitcase.
You can wrap film around the backpack to keep items safe from robbers. While it is done in an airport with dependability and occasionally even insurance, it is costly and shoddy. You can wrap your backpack yourself using regular food film, securing everything with the exception of the straps, handles, and pockets that you need for yourself.