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No great trek is complete without good gear, and that includes backpacks. Whether you’re an avid globetrotter or an everyday commuter, the best backpack for travel, work, or school should do more than simply holding your belongings — it should also be effective at protecting and organizing your goods.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to finding a great backpack. A bag designed for students won’t necessarily have all of the hooks and clips that an active hiker needs. On the other hand, a frequent flier will want a tech-friendly backpack that flies through security checkpoints.
What Are the Best Travel Backpacks?
There are a few things to consider before buying a travel backpack, such as size, design, storage, security features, and durability. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Size: It’s tempting to buy a large backpack to get the most bang for your buck, but bigger isn’t always necessarily better. Consider a size and capacity that’s appropriate for your body and won’t weigh you down with back pain. If you plan on using your bag as a carry-on, you’ll want to make sure it can fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat. You also don’t want to go overly minimalist with a small bag that feels stuffed to the brim.
Design:Ergonomics and comfort are also key when choosing the best backpack. Look for cushioned mesh on the back and shoulder straps for support and ventilation, and opt for a bag that has chest or waist straps that help balance out the weight. A well-designed bag will also include separate compartments that distribute weight evenly; heavier items like laptops are kept closer to your body, and smaller items can go in outer pockets.
Storage:Lest you want to carry around a black hole of a bag, make sure that your carryall keeps everything properly organized. A good backpack will have back, middle, and front compartments, and individual pockets throughout for water bottles, keys, wallets, passports, and other small belongings. Nowadays, most bags have designated pockets for laptops, tablets, cord storage, chargers, and other tech accessories.
Security:If you’re worried about pickpockets or other risks, consider features like side buckles or a hidden back pocket that makes it harder for others to get into your stuff.
Durability:Water- and weather-resistant fabrics are especially important if you’re traveling to places with humid or wet weather. You also want strong material that won’t easily tear on every scrape or bump.
