Backpacks - How to Choose the Right One for Travel – start by choosing the frame design and then have it fitted to you.

Backpacks used for both travel and outdoor activities like hiking and camping. For travel they can be a great alternative to luggage.


Backpack Types

• Frameless

• Internal frame

• External frame


FRAMELESS Packs

Frameless packs are designed for day trips and short trips. They can be used as daypacks.

advantages

• Not very expensive

• Light weight and not bulky

disadvantages

• Only practical for day trips and short trips

• Only good for light loads.


INTERNAL FRAME PACKS

Internal frame packs are typically used for travel. They are advantageous on rough, closed terrain. These packs typically have a zipper around the sides that allows the pack to be opened up like a suitcase (panel loading).

Smaller sizes can be used as daypacks while some of the larger sizes may have detachable daypacks.

advantages

• Panel loading packs make it easier to access to items at the bottom.

• No metal rods sticking out anywhere. The pack will not get caught on anything.

• Keeps the away from the wearer’s body thereby reducing perspiration when properly fitted.

• Designed keep the weight closer to the wearer’s center of gravity.

• Distributes the weight between the hips and lower back better than an external frame backpack.

• Streamlined design is better for moving through tight spaces.

disadvantages

• More expensive than external frame backpacks (reflective of the better quality).

• More difficult to pack than an external frame backpack and has fewer external pockets.


EXTERNAL FRAME PACKS

External frame packs are typically used for hiking but can also be used for travel. They are best for hiking on smooth, open terrain. The opening is typically at the top (top loading).

advantages

• Better for camping than the internal frame design- can strap tent and sleeping back to the outside of the pack.

• Less expensive than internal frame packs.

• Easier to fill; usually has multiple exterior pockets.

• The external frame keeps the backpack away from the wearer’s body thereby reducing perspiration.

• If packed properly, the weight of the pack is primarily on the hips rather than the lower back.

disadvantages

• With a top loading pack, it is often difficult to access items at the bottom.

• Wider and more bulky than an internal frame pack.

• External frame can become caught on something.

• If not packed properly the weight is on the lower back; furthermore the resultant high center of gravity may adversely affect the wearer’s balance.






Finding the Right Fit for You

The best fit is determined by torso length (not the height of the wearer). You will need someone to help you measure your torso.

1) While standing, carefully feel your back for the highest point of your hips on each side of the spine.


Your assistant should:

2) Use a piece of masking tape to connect the two points.

3) Mark the point where the tape crosses the spine (the base of spine).

4) Find and mark the seventh cervical vertebra (C7). This is the most prominent vertebra at the base of the neck.

5) Follow the contour of the spine to connect C7 to the base with a cloth measuring tape.

6) Record the distance between C6 and the base of the spine in inches.

7) Check the size below.

Choose the Best Pack Design

Approximately 80% of the weight of the pack should be on the hips. To facilitate this requires padded, contoured shoulder straps, load lifter straps, a sternum strap and a padded hipbelt.

Women will find women-specific packs.

Each pocket should have double zipper that can be locked for security.

Give consideration to having a pocket providing for easy access to a water bottle.


Try Before You Buy

Try several backpacks on for size to get the feel for what they are like. Pack it with some weight and then walk around. Take note any spots where you feel rubbing as this might be a warning of future problems.

Before you make a purchase, compare the store price to that found on the internet.
Visit the Budget Travel Store for great deals on packs.

Return from How to Choose Backpacks to Packing Tips