One of the most recurring questions that everyone asks during the organization phase of a trip is regarding the type of suitcase they plan to buy. Assuming you have never traveled as a backpacker and plan to do so for several weeks (or even months), chances are you will have to purchase a the backpack as such and not the classic wheelie suitcase.
Why do I say the latter? The traditional rolling suitcases are effective as long as you don't have to carry them, a reality that is not always the case when you travel indefinitely. In addition, backpacks allow you greater mobility, especially if you carry a considerable amount of weight.
The process of searching for a good backpack requires that you spend some time choosing the right one. With so many varieties abounding on the street, it is normal for many to be confused and choose the first one they see.
On the other hand, some get carried away by the low prices of certain backpacks, which in the long run ends up disappointing them when they see the low quality of their new acquisition.
A quality backpack will cost you a little more money, but in the end you will find that its durability is extraordinary, and it is more convenient for you if you make extensive trips.
As an example, I bought mine in March 2010, and I have gotten it wet, it has been on top of the buses (a fact that implies constant blows towards it), it has become dirty and I have washed it countless times, and still it's like nothing happened to him.
Although it has only been a year and a half since I released it on my first trip, there is no doubt that its high level of resistance guarantees that it will continue like this for several years.
In order to save you hours researching how the ideal backpack should be, I am going to describe what those essential details would have to be when looking for one. There are certain essential elements to take into account before purchasing a backpack, which are the ones that I will mention below:
Inner Frame
Almost all backpacks today have an internal frame, or in other words, they come with support bars integrated inside them. I would not mention this point in the least if it is not because backpacks that use an external frame are still sold.
In addition to being somewhat ugly in style, their use is quite shabby and they are not as functional compared to those that come with the internal frame. An internal frame backpack will give you the certainty that its weight will be lighter since it has all the metal incorporated inside.
Durable And Waterproof Material
The backpack does not have to be 100% waterproof, but at least indicate on the label that it is made of a semi-waterproof material. Thick and lightweight material is suitable, and so you will avoid a simple drizzle leaving everything soaked inside, leaving your things wet and even damaged if it is electronic equipment (laptop, camera).
Currently, most of them come with a compartment that has a waterproof cover, which can be used in case it is exposed to a lot of water (like that of a torrential downpour or when you travel by boat and the water splashes every so often), so make sure yours brings it.
Compartments
All backpacks have a series of compartments at the back and on the sides, where you can quickly store those things that you will use more frequently. If you are going to put valuables like passport, camera, cell phone or money in these pockets (which I do not recommend at all), try to keep them closed with a small padlock for greater security.
Also, note the number of compartments that are included and how they are divided. More importantly, they are easily accessible when packing and unpacking. There are even removable compartments that go on top of some backpack models, a detail that comes in handy when taking small trips.
Zippers
Parallel to the amounts of compartments in your backpack, make sure each one has its own pair of zippers so you can close them with a small padlock.
In my case, I confess that I am half paranoid with the simple idea that a stranger decides to open my backpack and see what something of value can take, or worse, that an improper object be put inside it (drugs or weapons). So I always say that prevention is preferable to regret later.
Comfort
The comfort that your backpack can give you when you have to carry it is very fundamental, even more important than the size or type of material with which it is made. One mistake most backpackers make is not to buckle up, and failing to do so results in back and leg discomfort.
Be clear that much of the weight you are going to carry will feel more on your hip than on your back. Therefore, it is necessary that the belt is as padded and adjustable as possible, so that you control the weight better so that the lumbar region does not bother you when walking.
Since the backpack will lie on your back, the front straps (with which you will carry your luggage) and the shoulder area must be padded, and conform to your shoulders in such a way that they do not gradually generate pain. Do not go shopping for a backpack with thin straps, because it is almost certain that they will not withstand that much weight and will spoil soon.
Similarly, it is very useful that your backpack has a chest strap. This strap will help you carry the weight forward, distributing it better and avoiding the tendency of it to go backwards. The usual thing is that it is positioned a little higher than the chest so that you do not feel that feeling of oppression when you walk.
Size
The size of the backpack is something vital and personal at the same time. If you get a very large one, instinctively you don't want to leave any empty space and you will end up putting on extra weight, which could lead to back discomfort when you have to carry it. One that is too small and it just won't give you enough space to put all the belongings you are really going to use.
The truth is that there is no size that is better than the rest, since the perfect backpack has to be proportional to your body. The size is defined by its capacity in liters. Those of 20 to 40 liters are considered small backpacks, those of 40 to 65 liters have a medium capacity and the largest ones range from 65 to 90 liters.
Whatever size you choose, the crucial thing is to know how to distribute the weight you put inside well.
Price
I prefer to answer this in dollars so that it is more understandable and in the process, you have a clearer idea. The price range usually ranges from $ 100 to $ 300. Of course, paying $ 300 for a backpack, in my opinion, is totally crazy. Instead of wasting that excess money, find yourself a $ 170 down.
I paid around $ 120 for my current backpack and it turned out pretty good. There are little known companies that are dedicated to making backpacks of spectacular quality, and they will not cost you as much as you tend to think.
The essence behind getting the desired backpack is not to buy the first thing you see, even if its cost is very cheap. Finally, regardless of the type of backpack you have chosen, the key to not passing wasteland is to carry as little luggage as possible. Believe me when I tell you that, even if it seems like a lie, you are not going to use everything you carry with you.
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