How to Buy a Travel Backpack
A travel backpack differs from a regular backpack in that it has a lot more bells and whistles: more pockets, more comfort features and more overall space.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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Consider the overall capacity and bulk of the pack. A roomy travel pack should expand to hold between 3,000 and 6,000 cubic inches, and the frame should be lightweight.
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Look for lots of inside and outside pockets that will allow a variety of items to be stowed in the pack with maximum accessibility.
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If you are a woman, or buying a pack for a woman, look for a travel pack especially proportioned to fit women, who generally have smaller bodies than men.
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Make sure the pack has good suspension and load contour to help distribute the weight more evenly on the back and hips.
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Look for convenient features such as a zip-off day pack, a real boon for travelers who wish to stow a large pack and use the smaller, lighter pack during the day.
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Expect a good travel pack to cost between $150 and $300.
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Tips & Warnings
Many travel packs also have a handle at the top or side so they can be carried like a suitcase. This is a great feature for use while loading or unloading the pack.
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Comments
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PCBC
Jan 06, 2009
Can anyone tell me the pros and cons of internal and external frame backpacks? -
PCBC
Jan 06, 2009
Can anyone tell me the pros and cons of internal and external frame backpacks?
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Dec 12, 2005
The biggest difference between a regular backpack and a travel pack (also called a conversion pack) is that the shoulder and waist straps (also often referred to as the harness system) are somehow covered or secured. Most (but not all) travel packs have a flap that covers the harness system and zips closed. This protects the harness system from being damaged by airport conveyor belts and other places where it may snag. Another feature is the sleeping bag compartment at the bottom of the pack. Sometimes it can be used as a completely separate compartment with a divider that zips open or closed inside the pack itself. Some other feature to look for are: -Few, if any, outside pockets. -A decent sized detachable day pack. Even if it's not big enough for day trips, it can still be used for things you may need access to quickly during the day, like guide books. Make sure there is a way to tightly secure, or even better, lock, your detachable day pack to your main pack. - A strap that allows you to carry the travel pack on your shoulder, like a duffel bag. - A detachable fanny of hip bag, sometimes on the sleeping bag compartment. This is good for first-aid kits and other emergency items because it's easier to carry with you if you already have an existing day pack. - Look for double stitching in weight bearing places. If it looks too flimsy, don't buy it, no matter how many guarantees and warranties are on the bag. They won't help you if your pack breaks in the middle of no where. - Travel light. If you can get around the world with one small travel pack with a detachable day pack, you're doing well. - Travel/Conversion packs are hard to come by in the United States, but not impossible. Check REI, Eagle Creek, JanSport and, of course, Ebay. In Canada, MEC makes some travel/conversion packs and also check Web sites for stores in Europe and Oceania. - If you don't think you'll need something, leave it at home! - Have fun. Be safe. Take pictures. Don't panic.
