Backpacks differ in type, size and back-support system. What to look out for when buying them and what size to choose? We will advise you on how to choose the right backpack.
Answer these questions before choosing a backpack
Tourist backpacks are suitable for trips to the city. Selected models have a trekking pole holder or beverage bag. It is produced both in smaller volumes for one-day trips, which can hold drinks, snacks and sweatshirts, and in larger variants for multi-day trips, which can also accommodate spare clothes.
The volume of a backpack is a more important parameter than its dimensions. When choosing the size of a backpack, think about where you will go. You will not want to use a backpack that is too big for a day trip if you don’t need to, they are much less comfortable to carry. Larger backpacks are suitable for multi-day hikes. Backpacks can be divided into three groups according to volume.
The back system can be fixed, or adjustable. For maximum comfort for fixed back support, the distance between the shoulder straps and the lumbar belt must match the length of your back.
Before you buy, think about what specific things you will put in your backpack. The norm for backpacks is that they have one main chamber and several separate chambers and pockets. For example, an easily accessible pocket for keys and coins on the waist belt is practical.
For larger backpacks you’ll want more access to the main storage space, preferably from above, but also from the sides or even from below. The zipper allows easy access to the backpack, but it can be difficult to close when the backpack is full.
Higher resistance and strength are ensured by quality materials such as Cordura, Plastex or Urtex. Manufacturers use PU coating and seam sealing to increase waterproofness, but only a small number of backpacks are waterproof. If you want to be sure that no water gets in, don't forget to buy a raincoat or waterproof cover.
Every backpack, whether small or large, should be comfortable. To ensure that nothing irritates you while wearing it, set it up correctly before using it for the first time. Here are some tips:
Before putting on a backpack be mindful of how heavy it is. Especially for children, it is important that they do not carry heavy things. Make sure they carry the backpack on both shoulders, not just one. Over time, damage to the backpack could occur if it is continuously worn using just one strap.
This should not be too difficult. Lighter things to the top and heavier towards the bottom of the backpack. This will level out your center of gravity and the backpack will carry better. Distribute weight evenly.
Cycling backpacks are designed primarily for cycling, but are also suitable for skating and running. Practical features include the possibility of attaching a helmet and a built-in water bag with a hose. Reflective strips can be glued on or stored in smaller pockets. You will be more visible to cars and other cyclists thanks to reflective strips.
The volume and dimensions of the bicycle backpack depend mainly on the length of the trips they will be used for. For short rides, a small backpack of up to 10 liters will probably suffice. It can hold water or smaller tools for light bike repairs. For longer trips choose larger backpacks to fit snacks, tools and possibly even extra clothes.
Cycling backpacks usually do not have reinforcements/ extra support, as they could impede your movement when riding. Backpacks have different designs depending on the rider’s gender.
Before you buy, think about what specific things you will put in your backpack. It should have one main chamber and several separate chambers and pockets. For example, a pocket for keys and coins on the waist belt is practical. For bicycle backpacks, you will also appreciate a buckle for the helmet or reflective elements.
Cordura, Plastex or Urtex materials ensure greater durability of the cycling backpack. To make them waterproof, manufacturers use PU coatings and seam sealing. But not all backpacks are waterproof. A raincoat or waterproof cover ensures reliable waterproofness.
Cycling backpacks are adapted for the cyclist and are curved to better suit their position when riding. Wear the backpack so that it is comfortable for your back and use it as little as possible when not riding.
Due to its shape and structure, cycling backpacks are not really suitable for other sports. For example, when running, the back of the backpack might not sit comfortably on your back, which could, in extreme cases, lead to health problems.
Running backpacks are designed especially for runners going for approximately 15km (and longer) runs. They can hold energy bars or other snacks, drinks and also keys or mobile phones. They are small and light and, thanks to several straps, they sit firmly on the back.
Do not expect backpacks for running to carry a lot. Their size is around 10 litres, which is enough for the basics: fluids and some clothes.
Running backpacks do not have reinforcements. Their main requirement is to be small and light and they are thus built accordingly. Some backpacks come close to being just bulkier vests.
According to the storage space, running backpacks could be divided into racing and transport backpacks. Racing backpacks have less storage space because they try to limit movement as little as possible. Transport backpacks offer more volume and better stability even with larger loads.
If you want to be sure of quality, choose backpacks made of materials such as Cordura, Plastex or Urtex. To ensure waterproofing, look for PU paint or sealed seams when choosing a running backpack. Another option is a raincoat or waterproof cover.
Even though they are not directly intended for this, no major problems should arise when using them for other sports. However, their shape does not suit cycling, for example. Bear in mind that running backpacks have little capacity and a specific design.
Running backpacks are firmly attached to the body when running, so they will not interfere with your movement. You are likely to get used to it quickly and after a few uses won’t notice it at all.
Store only the most important items in the running backpack. Fluid supplies and small snacks should be held by most backpacks. For longer trips, choose backpacks with a volume of over 10 litres. They can also hold warmer clothes and larger snacks. For shorter distances, when you only need keys and drinks, a smaller backpack up to 10 litres will suffice.
Backpacks for children are smaller and often weigh less than 300 grams thanks to the lightweight back system. They have ergonomically shaped padded straps and reflective elements that draw attention to the child from a distance. Usually made using bright colors with cheerful motifs of animals or children's show characters.
Most importantly, children's backpacks should fit well and be comfortable. Carrying a poorly built backpack for a long time could cause health problems, especially for children.
Kids don't require much storage space, so it's up to you how many pockets to choose. A lot depends on the use. For backpacks for trips, choose more pockets for snacks and possibly clothes. Fewer pockets are enough for a backpack for holidays with family members or for trips by car.
Design is an integral part of children's backpacks. Children prefer it to functionality, so it's good to have fun with the child choosing which backpack they like. In general, bright colors are good, but some backpacks also have pictures of children's cartoon characters.
For the safety of a children's backpack, it is important that it fits well on its back and is not too heavy. Shoulder straps will help increase comfort and reflective elements will increase safety.
School backpacks are also suitable for children from the fourth grade. Their structure is not as solid and they also offer fewer children's motifs. They contain one large and several smaller pockets. They usually have a lightweight construction, anatomically shaped back and adjustable straps. And since students often move in the dark or in the evening, it is good that their backpack also has reflective elements.
School bags should be able to hold all textbooks and school supplies. Two or three extra pockets or side pockets for water bottles are ideal.
Also pay attention to the weight of the bag itself. The school bag must be light enough so as not to burden the child's spine. The standard weight of the bag must not exceed 1,200 g for first-graders and 1,400 g for second-graders.
School bags can be separated into several types according to their structure.
City backpacks can be used for school, work, but also for shopping or short trips. They have a laptop pocket and compartments for paper and stationery, so they are popular with university students. City backpacks are not only functional, but also emphasize stylish design.
Since urban backpacks are intended for teenagers or adults, you can choose from larger and heavier variants. Choose the backpack size according to the use.
You are likely to want to show off with a city backpack, design plays a big role. Especially in cities. With this type of backpack, you will usually find a modern design that suits even teenagers.
A city backpack often has one or two sufficiently spacious pockets. Some also have a padded laptop compartment to prevent damage to the device.
City backpacks are very versatile, so they are also suitable for shorter trips into nature. For longer trips, however, choose tourist backpacks. The city backpack would not offer sufficient capacity, suitably structured storage space, back-support system and other gadgets useful for hiking trips.
For trips to work, a smaller backpack or shoulder bag will suffice. If you want to use your backpack, for example, to explore the city or for festivals, choose backpacks over 10 litres, which can fit clothes and food.
Tennis backpacks or tennis bags can comfortably hold a tennis racket, clothes, shoes, balls, but also other things for training or personal belongings. They should be strong enough to protect the tennis racket. They usually come in three sizes. They can be worn on the back.
When choosing a tennis bag, think about how many people you will carry the equipment for. For more people, a shoulder bag is suitable, which can hold even more rackets. For an individual player or children, a backpack is enough for one racket.
Tennis backpacks should have a solid structure. Rackets and other tools fit into such a backpack much more easily than a normal bag and most importantly prevent damage to the rackets.
Some tennis bags can hold several rackets and still have room for shoes or clothes. The advantage is the side pockets for tennis balls or personal belongings.
Quality tennis bags are made of materials such as Cordura, Plastex or Urtex. PU waterproofing and seam-gluing ensure waterproofness. But not all tennis bags are waterproof. Waterproof covers ensure rain protection.
Not really. The tennis bag is adapted, for example by its shape, directly for tennis rackets. Other tools will probably fit in it, but the bag is not intended for that.
Ski backpacks often have easy access to the back if you have skis or other equipment strapped to your backpack. This is also useful when placing the backpack face down on snow so that the back system does not come into contact with the snow. Ski backpacks also have a lumbar belt and a chest strap, and often a water bag with a hose that leads through the shoulder strap through to the mouth. Ski mountaineering backpacks have a special pocket for storing an avalanche shovel.
Choose a backpack according to the length of the ski trip.
In the case of a ski backpack, you will appreciate having enough storage space for liquids, or for spare warm clothes. Accessory compartments can also be useful.
Quality ski bags are made of materials such as Cordura, Plastex or Urtex. PU waterproofing and seam-gluing ensure waterproofness. But not all ski bags are waterproof. Waterproof covers ensure rain protection.
The ski backpack is also suitable for snowboarding, cross-country skiing or mountain hiking. With its capacity and shape, it offers both comfort and great usability.
Proper weight distribution is important for ski backpacks. You can achieve this by placing the center of gravity of the backpack as close to your body as possible. So put things in it so that you have heavy objects at your back.
Snowboard backpacks, like ski backpacks, have external straps for attaching a snowboard or other objects. They also allow access through the back system so that the backpack can be placed on its front in the snow. The back is also breathable and a hose from a water bag leads through the straps.
For downhill runs, choose smaller backpacks that will limit your movement as little as possible. Choose larger backpacks for longer day trips.
Snowboard backpacks should have enough storage space for liquids and possible spare clothes. Various accessories can also be useful. The advantage is the possibility of access through the back.
Quality snowboard backpacks are made of materials such as Cordura, Plastex or Urtex.PU coating and gluing of the seams ensure waterproofing, or get a raincoat or waterproof cover.
It depends mainly on its size. Smaller backpacks are designed for downhill riding, so they will limit you the least, larger backpacks could limit you simply due to their structure (never mind when they’re full), so it is better to take them off before going downhill.
The main and largest storage space of the backpack. It can be divided into several parts or can contain several pockets.
Camelbak is a backpack with a drinking bag and a hose leading to the mouths of hikers, runners and cyclists. It allows you to easily follow your drinking regime while running and cycling, without having to stop and take a bottle out of your backpack. CamelBak is also a designation for an American company producing this type of backpack.
It is part of mainly tourist backpacks with a larger capacity, but it is also used in some medium-sized city backpacks. It is used to stabilize the backpack and transfer most of the weight from the shoulders to the pelvis. A good waist belt carries more than 50% of the weight of a backpack. It should be stiff and padded, it closes with a buckle.
Zipper containing two sliders for more comfortable closing and opening.