Companies have started designing best backpacking backpacks for travel . That are suitable for travel abroad. In the past, people were forced to use traditional hiking backpacks, which wasn’t useful at all. I’ve used different bags and learned what not to do by making mistakes myself (experience is a good teacher).I’m glad that companies like Osprey and Teton have started to design backpacks suitable for travel abroad. In the past, people were forced to use hiking-style backpacks when they traveled through Europe, South America, or Asia. A style of backpack that is not suited to this traveling. I’ve tried several different styles of backpack myself before noticing how wrong it could go if you choose poorly. A bag can ruin your day!
Why are traditional hiking backpacks not ideal for travel?
I was backpacking in Europe and wanted to go ultralight. But I wouldn’t say I liked the idea of giving up on the monster pack that had been with me for years. So instead, I bought a Featherweight backpack from Gossamer Gear (a company devoted solely to lightweight gear). It weighs less than ten ounces, but it’s only about five liters big—not much room if you’re bringing lots of stuff along!
I did some research online before finding this product which is perfect for anyone dedicated to saving weight. While still having everything they need when embarking into nature or traveling abroad. To make things easier during travel and hiking between cities/towns. Many hikers will bring their equipment as well as food supplies.
I decided to try the Osprey Farpoint 40 , which was a great, lightweight and comfortable backpack. But, if I decided to go over mountains for long hikes. It would be great, but I felt like I made the wrong choice for my trip to Paris, Budapest, Rome, and Amsterdam. The shortcomings were the following:
The access to my stuff.
The top-loading hiking backpacks are perfect for hiking since backpackers will unload the whole bag and set up camp. But when traveling, nobody needs to unpack the hard-packed bag when changing location. It is a huge pain; I know you’ll agree. You need a bag that will give you access to everything you need, easy and fast.
Too many straps.
For hiking, all sorts of straps are perfect since you can adjust them to fit compress the load, hold a sleeping pad, and fit the shoulder harness. Also, these straps can easily get caught on things and cause damage ( you can be lucky if you only broke a mirror). So, when going to too many airports, when your bag needs to be check. You need to be careful and look at the straps not to be caught on the conveyor belt or ripped off the bag.
Hard to pack.
Hiking backpacks are usually narrow and long, which I will say again. for hiking is great since it will keep your stuff in the center of the back, but this isn’t easy to pack. So, when traveling, this can be a bit of a nuisance.
What’s the idea behind the best travel backpacks?
The deal with choosing the best backpacking backpacks for travel is simple- it needs to zip open as a regular suitcase. In that way, you can access all your stuff without hassle. Most travel backpacks are not having the extra straps and hip belts, or shoulder straps. So everything can be packed behind the zippered panel, which is safer when traveling with trains, buses, or planes. Comparing them both, you think that all this stuff sounds lovely. But they’re still some catches since travel backpacks are not as advanced as the traditional hiking backpacks. Here’re some drawbacks:
The weak spot zippers:
As on any bag, zippers are the weakest spot on the travel backpacks. Even most manufacturers are using heavy-duty zippers, and you should be prepared if you break one. Also, keep in mind that most zippers are not waterproof, so bring some rain cover if there’s rain to protect your zipper and stuff. Of course, if you have bought a perfect bag, this might not be a problem, but it is good to know in any case.
The hip belt.
The travel backpacks should have a hip belt, but most of them are not having. This is essential since when traveling, you bring many things in your bag that weigh, and the whole weight should not be on your shoulders but your hips. If your backpack doesn’t have a hip belt, then that is the backpack you should not wear for a long time on your back.
Boxiness
Unlike the traditional hiking backpacks, the travel backpacks are bored boxy since they are designed to look and function as a suitcase. This is not complaining, but for people who use a hiking pack, the difference will be noticed for sure.
What to look for when choosing best backpacking backpacks for travel?
Few things need to be considered when choosing an ideal travel backpack. Type, size, straps, material, and the access that the backpacks have are the main things that need to be checked. Even some of your close ones such as sister/brother, friends, colleagues or some other may say “this one is the best, it has this, this and this..” it doesn’t mean it will be the best for you also.
Type
Do you need a large backpack? Or maybe smaller will fit your needs? It depends on your plans. If you’re planning a more extended trip where many locations will be included, then a giant backpack will be a better choice. But still, there are many options, so keep reading.
Material
In general, all backpacks are made with a water-resistant material. But, it does not need to be completely waterproof, but you need to look out for something acceptable. What do I mean by this? I mean that if rain caught you outdoor, your stuff wouldn’t get wet. When choosing a suitable backpack, look for a material that will dry quickly, be good quality, and be lightweight.
Access
The way you’ll access your things in your backpack is significant. Thou, it needs to be one of the things you should keep in mind when choosing travel backpacks. I am not enjoying getting all my stuff out of the backpack. When I need something packed on the bottom, so the top-loading backpacks are not my choice when traveling. When choosing the perfect one, keep in mind things that may frustrate you. My favorites are the travel backpacks with a U-zip, which I found more straightforward and quicker access to my stuff.
Size
The most important aspect for me to check when choosing a backpack is the size. I found that it is necessary to pick a bag that can be worn comfortably. It is not just the size, but the bag’s shape and how it will fit on the back. During my travels, I made some mistakes about choosing the right backpack. I learned that selecting something slightly more significant is best than the one you think you need from all that. So, you can buy things while traveling and you’ll have a place to pack them all.
Final word
There are many best backpacking backpacks for travel out there, and it can be hard to pick the right one. But we’ve narrowed it down for you! Check out our Reviews of Osprey Farpoint 40 and Osprey Farpoint 48 of the best backpack brands, styles, and sizes for travel abroad. You won’t regret having all your bases covered with this helpful guide.
So, what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags and get ready to explore the world! Now that you know all about these best backpack brands out there, it shouldn’t be too hard for you to choose which one is best suited for your needs – happy travels!
