Backpacks

Type and usage

Travel backpacks

• Travel backpacks are versatile and are sold in various sizes.
• Suitable for trips.
• Some are equipped with a trekking pole holder or a hydration bag.

Cycling backpacks

• Cycling backpacks - lightweight backpacks with a volume of about 10-20 litres, usually equipped with a hydration bag and reflective elements.

Children's backpacks

• Children's backpacks - small backpacks frequently adorned with reflective elements and popular cartoon characters.

Urban and school backpacks

• Urban and school backpacks - usually smaller backpacks 15-30 litres in volume. Tend to have many internal and external pockets. Suitable for everyday wear to work, school, shopping, and short trips.
• They are functionally designed and generally have an elegant a pleasing appearance.

Volume and size

• Small backpacks (35 litres and less) - Suitable for the city walks, biking to school, or for short trips. The main advantage is their compact size and light weight.
• Medium backpacks (55 litres and less) - Ideal for trips and hikes that last several days. Some are designed for specific uses, such as mountain climbing or extreme skiing. These have holders for trekking poles, a helmet, rope, skis, or a snowboard. Usually contain lumbar supporting features, reinforced structure, and sternum straps with buckles.
• Large backpacks (55 litres and more) - Designed for longer trips and hikes. Can also be used as the main luggage. We recommend using a smaller backpack for the shorter trips. Make sure the backpack has a properly reinforced structure, lumbar support, and sternum straps or a harness. Most of them also have a ventilated back.

Construction

• Usually consists of two light alloy or duralumin strips. These are firmly attached to the backpack frame.
• The backpack should maintain its shape even when it’s half-empty and has skis attached to it.

Storage compartments and pockets

• The backpack should provide multiple ways how to access the main storage compartment - for example, from the top, side, and bottom. It can contain multiple isolated compartments or one large.
• The pocket quantity and arrangement are crucial. The important things should be always at hand.

Materials

• Backpacks made of Cordura, Plastex, or Urtex are tougher and offer higher durability.
• Waterproofing is generally solved with PU coating, which, however, tends to lose its effectiveness over time. Backpack rain covers are a common solution and can be purchased along with the backpack.