Which tourist backpack to choose? A backpack on wheels - a tribute to fashion or a necessity dictated by time? Best cycling backpack

The success of any trip depends not only on a carefully planned travel program, but also on wisely selected equipment. You can’t go to the mountains with fins, and you definitely won’t need skis in the desert. One of the most important pieces of travel gear is a backpack. Therefore, in this article we will look at the 10 most common mistakes that should not be made when choosing a travel backpack.

Mistake No. 1: irrationally selected volume.

Remember, there are no universal backpacks! Each journey is unique in its own way and requires individual preparation. The volume of the backpack is determined depending on the duration and complexity of the hike, as well as the amount of equipment needed during the process. Based on this, all backpacks can be divided according to volume and purpose into three conditional groups:

Urban(up to 35 l) – small-sized backpacks designed for use in urban environments or during short forays into nature.
Assault(up to 65 l) - roomy backpacks of medium size, necessary to overcome difficult sections of the route (for example, when climbing) in short periods of time.
Expeditionary(from 65 to 120 l) - large and roomy backpacks for long hikes, allowing you to transport not only essentials, but also additional gear and equipment.

If you are planning a multi-day outing into nature that involves survival in extreme conditions, you should not take the largest and heaviest backpack, loading it to the maximum - this will negatively affect your endurance.

Mistake No. 2: incorrectly selected design.

Comfort and safety are the key to a successful trip. To ensure that the backpack sits evenly on the back and does not deform the spine under high loads, it is necessary to determine the most suitable design.

By design, tourist backpacks are divided into the following groups:

Soft– inexpensive backpacks in which the suspension is completely sewn to the loading chamber (bag). Among the main advantages are the variety of designs and affordable prices. Otherwise, such backpacks are used only for urban conditions.
Anatomical (semi-rigid) - backpacks with a frame built into the back made of sheet foam and slats, which are made of light metal alloys or plastic. The main advantages of such backpacks are: durable vertical design, ease of installation, ease of use, resistance to deformation.
Easel– backpacks with a built-in metal or plastic frame on which a suspension and a removable loading chamber are installed (if necessary, it can be replaced with some other cargo). Now easel backpacks are not particularly popular, since they have been replaced on the market by modernized anatomical models.

At the same time, safety is important not only for the tourist, but also for his luggage. In some, and especially in soft, backpacks, it is dangerous to carry fragile equipment (cameras, cameras, research equipment, etc.), so it is better to focus your choice on a model with a durable frame.

Mistake No. 3: moisture-permeable and unreliable material.

The fabric of a good travel backpack does not have to be 100% waterproof. Firstly, there are very few such backpacks on the market! And secondly, they are usually extremely expensive.

However, there are many backpacks that have a waterproof film on the inside that can provide satisfactory protection. There are also models with built-in rain covers that protect not only from moisture, but also from dust, dirt and other debris. Of course, the fabric must also be strong enough and non-marking.

Mistake #4: Lack of adjustment straps.

The next step, after determining the volume, design and material of the backpack, is to make sure that there are locking chest and waist straps, as well as adjustment straps for a person’s height. Remember: you can only try on a loaded backpack! Trying on empty equipment is just as imprecise as choosing by eye.

To make the backpack easier to carry, the waist area should bear the same load as the shoulders. The lumbar pad and waist belt are responsible for this effect, which form a conical shape that follows your hips and the lower contour of the belt.

Mistake #5: A flimsy or tight buckle.

You should also pay attention to the buckles of the adjustment straps, which should be unfastened with one hand with light pressure. This is not some kind of whim, but safety requirement, on which your life may depend in a critical situation.

The most common buckle models are:

« Self-reset» is a mechanical buckle based on the concept of hook and holder. To unlock, you need to rotate the movable element 90° so that the hook slides off the locking element.
« Fastex"("trident") is a semi-automatic buckle consisting of two parts: a trident and a socket. To unlock, you need to press on the outer teeth of the first buckle and move it slightly forward from the locking part.

It is noteworthy that “self-resets” are more popular than “fastexes”. This is explained by the fact that the former have a stronger design, and the opening system is noticeably faster.

Mistake #6: Narrow straps.

Depending on the width of the straps, the load on the shoulders is distributed. If the backpack straps are too narrow, they can not only cause discomfort, but also injure your body. The optimal width for straps is 6-8 cm.

Be sure to make sure that the straps are made of a sufficiently rigid material that can maintain its original shape. The upholstery of the straps should be made of dense material without internal seams or hard elements. If you are sure that the straps you like will last longer than the backpack itself, then these are good straps.

Mistake #7: Lack of back ventilation.

A heavy backpack (from 15 kg) presses very tightly against your back, which is why it begins to sweat profusely. This problem is relevant only for the cheapest backpacks. Professional travel equipment is equipped with special ventilation systems that create free space between the back and the wall of the backpack.

Mistake #8: Insufficient number of compartments.

Near a tourist backpack in the loading chamber there must be at least 5 compartments: main, upper, lower and two side. This way you can group things by priority to make it much easier to get to what you need: first aid kit, camera, knife, passport, food, etc.

There are no specific classifications or canons based on the number of compartments. Each backpack differs in both the individual location of the pockets and their capacity. Just choose the model you like best – you can’t go wrong.

Mistake #9: Inconvenient fastener system.

Main compartment the backpack must have two fasteners with a zipper, which is necessary not only for convenience, but also for the safe storage of things. At the airport, at the train station, on the train or even public transport The backpack is very easy to open unless you put a small padlock on the clasps. It will not only allow you to be on the safe side, but will also discourage intruders from messing with your things.

Mistake #10: Unknown manufacturer.

None of the above recommendations will help in choosing a travel backpack if you turn to a little-known or completely unknown brand. There are a lot of companies that produce travel equipment, but not every one of them is ready to honestly present you with the characteristics of their product. However, there are also enough proven and well-established manufacturers on the domestic market.

For example, the following brands are represented in the upper price range: JACK WOLFSKIN (Germany), Mountain Hardwear (USA), VauDe (Germany), Dakine (USA), Tatonka (Germany), Salomon (France).

In addition, in the middle and budget segment you can pay attention to such well-known brands as: The North Face, Outventure, ASICS, Columbia, Quiksilver, Volkl and others.

Depending on the purpose, characteristics and manufacturer, prices vary significantly: from 500 rubles. and up to more than 25,000 rub. We hope that from the range of about 400 models you will find exactly what you need!

On this moment, perhaps, nothing more convenient than a backpack has been invented. The backpack frees up your hands, allowing you to use trekking poles, a camera, a navigator or a map on the go. Nice backpack harmoniously distributes weight between shoulders and hips, giving preference to the latter, so even walking for many hours becomes not such a difficult task.

Features of travel backpacks

With backpacks for hiking it’s somehow simpler and clearer. Here, as they say, with all the wealth of choice, there is no other alternative to carrying the necessary things. You just need to decide what kind of backpack you need.

With travel, everything is not so simple, because the format of the trip can be different. If your format is airplane - taxi - hotel, then a suitcase or soft bag will be a more practical solution. But many people are tired of vacationing in the beach-hotel mode; they want to move around more, including on foot, and not only on roads. And when the wheels of your suitcases begin to get stuck and fall off, when the glossy sidewalks of the central streets, or even the streets themselves, end, and all your luggage is still with you, the question becomes relevant - how to move it all more comfortably? This is where a backpack comes to the rescue - the ideal device for comfortably transporting your belongings to different conditions. The main drawback of a backpack, according to the majority, is the difficulty in packing and placing things, difficult access to what lies in the middle or at the bottom - has long been resolved in many models that unfasten in different places and even along the entire length.

You can choose a backpack with a large number of external and internal pockets, which will easily fit all your cosmetic bags, toiletries, towels, cameras and a thousand other small items that will remain easily accessible at hand. If there is no need to carry a backpack on your shoulders, the straps and waistband of some backpacks can be hidden, turning it into a convenient bag.

Some larger backpacks designed for travel accommodate a small backpack in the form of a large external pocket that can be detached and used separately. There are also models with a removable top flap, which in a few seconds transforms into a quite comfortable belt bag, capable of containing everything you need for a short outing.

Also, modern travel backpacks often have many technologies for successful ventilation of surfaces adjacent to the body - straps, waist and back, so even on a hot day, carrying a backpack will give you a minimum of discomfort.

So it's no surprise that everyone more people Those going on trips (not to be confused with all-inclusive tourist trips) replace bags and suitcases with comfortable multifunctional backpacks. What can we say if part of your trip should be a hike, especially for several days or more. Then a comfortable backpack will be just what you need.

Basic criteria for choosing a backpack for travel

versatility (should replace a backpack, bag, suitcase);
convenient access for things in the middle and at the bottom of the backpack (so as not to feel pinched after your favorite suitcase);
attractive appearance, allowing you to feel “at home” with a backpack in a five-star hotel, and also wear it not only with hiking clothes;
a large number of pockets and compartments for storing many small items and convenient access to them;
the ability to transform a pocket or flap of a backpack into a separate small belt bag or backpack for short outings;
convenient hanging system; if you plan to travel in hot countries, the best ventilation in the shoulder and back area is desirable;
the presence of a protective cover to protect against rain, as well as dirt and dust when transporting the backpack in the luggage compartments of transport.

Hiking backpacks

A backpack on a hike allows you to carry all the things necessary for a “break away from civilization” with maximum convenience and comfort for the user. There is a certain and rather conventional division of hiking backpacks in accordance with the main area of application. This does not mean that such specialization is mandatory and knows no exceptions. It only allows you to roughly navigate your choice.

With such backpacks they usually go on short and simple hikes, go to the forest for a picnic, go for mushrooms and berries, and go on a short fishing trip. The features of this type are a small volume (20-50 liters if traveling without an overnight stay and 50-70 liters for a couple of days), simple design, and often a very reasonable price. If you rarely go on such trips, then you don’t have to spend money on products from famous and expensive brands; you can buy something simpler and cheaper in regular stores. In the event of failure or damage to such a backpack, the user will not end up in any dangerous, or even hopeless situation, as, for example, on a long autonomous hike or climbing.

Assault backpacks

Comparable in volume (20-50 liters), but different in application from the backpacks described in the previous group. These are extremely durable, often high-tech products with a minimum number of external pockets and protruding parts, and have a “streamlined” shape. Such a backpack has a minimum chance of getting caught on a ledge of a rock or branch at the most inopportune moment, and if this happens (for example, when pulled on a rope), then thanks to its durable materials and shape, it has many chances to withstand such a test. The main purpose of such backpacks is to participate in climbs and short hikes in the most extreme conditions with many mechanical influences, heavy loads and adverse weather conditions. Such products should be as comfortable, lightweight and “indestructible” as possible. As a rule, the design of this type of backpack assumes the ability to place it outside, if necessary, individual elements assault equipment - for example, rope, ice tools, crampons.

Special mention should be made of special backpacks for rock climbers. They are distinguished by minimal weight, “invisibility” on the back, special loops for equipment, and small volume.

In a number of ways, very similar to this group of backpacks are the popular skiing disciplines among extreme sports enthusiasts, which involve, in addition to climbing the mountain, also descending on skis or snowboards. Although they have a similar volume, they differ in their characteristic design elements. First of all, this is the ability to conveniently secure skis/snowboards for carrying, and secondly, the presence of special pockets:

soft pocket for ski mask;
special compartment for an avalanche probe and a snow shovel;
compartment for avalanche beeper;
first aid kit compartment;

Thirdly, the use mainly in the cold season usually forces designers to protect the outlet hose of the drinking system with an insulated (usually neoprene) zippered cover.

Often freeride backpacks have special back protection that has a separate certificate. Some models are also equipped with an innovative “avalanche ascent” system - this is a kind of airbag for the rider, powered by a squib and giving a real chance of surviving and even getting out independently if caught in an avalanche. Please note that most ammo for these systems is currently prohibited from being carried on airplanes. Not surprisingly, these packs are among the most expensive in terms of volume/price ratio available. Quite often, freeride packs are used on climbs, and vice versa.

Hiking backpacks (trekking backpacks)

The most popular, diverse and widely represented group of backpacks. Various designs, designs, wide range of volumes, various materials allow even the most experienced users to choose a model for themselves. The main qualities of such backpacks:

practicality,
versatility,
convenience for most users.

Therefore, if you do not have clear, highly specialized tasks, if you want an “all in one” backpack for all occasions, then this format is just right. Of course, it will lose to highly specialized models in each segment - for dizzying ski slopes or serious climbs, but if there is no desire/ability to buy several different models, then a universal backpack of medium volume (50-70 liters for women, 60-80 liters for men) will be the optimal choice. For long-term autonomous expeditions or water rafting with approaches over land, when you need to carry a lot of heavy loads, you will need larger backpacks - 80-100 liters or even more.

Main types of backpack designs

The once very popular form factor is now completely exotic. Currently, you can most often find this format: an L-shaped frame made of light alloy with a suspension system (soft back, wide shoulder straps, waist belt), which can be used as a basis for carrying oversized items, usually of large volume and weight. Indispensable in large expeditions, used by speleologists and watermen. For traveling and general hiking, as a rule, this is not the best option.

Currently, it is the most common form factor for large backpacks (over 30L). There is a very wide variety of designs - soft/hard frame elements, options from the most sophisticated to the extremely simple - you can choose according to your taste and requirements. As a rule, all parts of the frame can be removed/detached to wash/lighten the backpack.

In fact, it is a variation of the form factor described above, in which the main elements of the frame are moved outside. This is usually done for two reasons - to simplify the operations of removing/installing elements and simplifying the design of the backpack, as well as to provide increased back ventilation. Improved ventilation is usually achieved by using various types mesh that separates the user's back from the back of the backpack and allows air to circulate freely. As a rule, the mesh is stretched over a strong frame. Such designs have increased comfort for those who place great importance on back ventilation in hot weather, but also have significant disadvantages:

the backpack becomes more bulky, most of these structures do not fold;
the center of gravity of the backpack moves away from the back and the overturning moment increases, the load on the back increases;
with dimensions similar to those of a conventional design, the useful volume of the backpack is significantly lost, and the configuration of the internal volume becomes inconvenient, especially when packing/removing large items;
weight and price are usually higher regular models similar volume.

Previously, most backpacks were frameless. Preferring convenience and comfort, as well as greater safety for health, man has created many modern designs for carrying heavy loads on the back. But, despite having significant gains in many respects, most modern backpacks have also lost some advantages that are fundamental for some users.

First of all, it is weight and compactness, the ability to widely adjust capacity, and fold an unused backpack into a minimum volume for storage or transportation.

The popular lightweight community of our time is fighting for every gram of weight in their equipment. Thus, when using modern technological products and special camping food, the weight of everything necessary for traveling for several days can be significantly less than ten kilograms and take up little volume. Agree that packing such belongings into an almost three-kilogram expedition backpack is illogical. Accordingly, the low weight of the equipment and the backpack itself allows you to partially get rid of expensive and heavy technologies for carrying significant weight.

Most frameless ultra-light backpacks have a small volume - up to 30 liters. Usually it is a conveniently shaped bag made of thin durable fabric. But there are also backpacks of larger volume, which are a kind of compromise between ordinary tourist backpacks “stuffed” with all possible technologies and an ordinary bag with straps. Here the choice is yours.

Selection of a tourist backpack according to parameters

Before choosing a backpack, be sure to identify the area of its intended use and all your requirements for it. Analyze everything you managed to write down. Start putting together a sketch of your future travel assistant. The backpack usually has a very long term service (my main backpack has been serving quite intensively for more than ten years, and although I have already purchased the next model, it remains in service in excellent condition) and is, along with hiking shoes, a key element of equipment, so take its choice seriously. So, the main parameters for a hiking/travel backpack.

1.How to choose the volume of a tourist backpack

Many people think that the more, the better, and that “the reserve is not enough for the pocket.” Often, this is not entirely true. Why? The larger the backpack, the greater its weight - why carry extra? The price of a larger backpack will also be higher with a similar design and brand. If you are traveling with a less organized group and have a backpack that is too big, be prepared to carry everything that others can’t fit. Remember that every year equipment becomes more compact and lighter, so hundred-liter backpacks are gradually becoming a thing of the past...

But a backpack that's too small is even worse, because you'll end up limiting your gear, leaving behind essentials, overloading the backpack, and putting too much stuff on the outside of the backpack. Try to avoid this. It is very important to pack your backpack correctly.

2.Back design

Backpack with mesh or classic anatomical back? For “serious” hikes and expeditions, carrying a significant load (more than 18 kg), and if necessary, take your main backpack on climbs and short forays, I recommend a classic anatomical backrest with removable frame elements. If the weight of the backpack is small, if you travel mainly in hot climates and value comfort, you can take a closer look at the option with mesh.

Height-adjustable/non-adjustable back of the backpack. Most backpacks provide the ability to adjust the backrest height within a fairly wide range. That is, most users can customize it for themselves. This is convenient if they will use different people, it also sometimes makes sense to adjust the back when switching from summer to winter clothing. Disadvantage of an adjustable back - more weight and the cost of the product.

Models with a non-adjustable back are available on the market. Here, when choosing, you need to be very careful, carefully measure the backpack before purchasing. Typically, such models are sold in clothing sizes. It is not a fact that the dimensions of the backpack and your clothes will be the same. You need to measure - the main criterion is the length of your back.

3. Weight

Try to choose equipment, incl. and a backpack with as little weight as possible. By reducing the weight of your hiking equipment, you increase your average speed of movement and put less strain on your joints, muscles and ligaments. Weight also matters when using air transport. However, keep in mind that reliability and price indicators are very dependent on weight - choose the compromise that suits you personally.

4. Additional options

Nowadays, manufacturers are luring customers with many additional amenities. But which of them will really be in demand by you, and which will remain a marketing ploy that you “bought”? Make a list of necessary and desirable options for yourself, leave everything else “overboard”. Here is a rough list of additional amenities that may make sense for individual users:

The lower/side entrance to the backpack makes packing/unpacking things easier; must be functional (convenient). So, for example, sometimes the design of the lower entrance does not allow you to get, say, a sleeping bag in a cover (on my backpack) from a fully packed backpack.
Compression straps - number (two or more), length - should allow you to place a rolled up mat behind them (if you are using a non-inflatable one) or something else. Many even famous manufacturers clearly save on the length of the side straps (fortunately, it is possible to lengthen them).
Possibility of external suspension of necessary things - a hiking mat, trekking poles, ice tools, skis/snowboards, snowshoes, crampons, avalanche shovel, rope, tent, etc. Think about what you will actually wear outside, whether you need extra attachments and whether there are availability necessary.
Rain cover. A very useful option, in my opinion - a must have. If the backpack does not have a built-in cover, it can be purchased separately. In addition to protection during rain, the cover will help prevent your backpack from getting dirty in the luggage compartment or vestibule of the tent. It may not be needed when hiking/travelling in drier areas of the world.

5. Valve type

In my opinion, it is preferable to choose a backpack with a so-called “floating” flap, secured with adjustable straps on all sides. This type allows you to change the volume of the main compartment within a wider range and carry rope or other bulky objects under the flap. Ideally, the flap should be removable and convertible into a fanny pack/backpack. This will allow you, if necessary, to lighten your backpack, take a flap filled with valuable and necessary things with you in a tent/carry-on luggage, and use it during short outings to carry necessary items.

Most modern backpacks are designed to accommodate a hydration system. But not all models have this thought out in detail. If using the system is important to you, pay attention to the design. I find the most acceptable design to be one with a separate external pocket and a semi-rigid hydration pack, as found on most Osprey backpacks.

It should also be taken into account that in Lately Many manufacturers make separate women's backpack models, adapted to the characteristics of women's physiques. Also, for such backpacks, a “female” design and separate proposals for internal volume are used. Should women only pay attention to such models? Think, Any will do backpack after careful fitting, the main thing is that it meets your requirements. My opinion is that the emergence of “female models” is more likely marketing ploy than real necessity.

How to try on a backpack correctly

Try it on in the clothes you plan to wear. Try wearing it on both a T-shirt and a warm jacket. The backpack for fitting must be full and have an adequate weight for traveling conditions. Walk around with your backpack for at least 5-7 minutes.

I wish you a good choice and good hikes!

So you're going on a hike. The route has been chosen, the place has been booked, tickets have been purchased, you are standing in the middle of the room, things are laid out on the floor, a backpack is in the center and the main question of any novice hiker is: “How? How can I put it all in my backpack?”

We will try to help you solve this problem and describe the most common principles in this article: how to choose tourist backpack ; how to properly assemble it, how to adjust it correctly, how to properly wear a backpack on a hike, and we’ll give you the most common mistakes, which beginners admit during preparations before the hike.

Our article will help you correctly choose tourist backpack so that you don't get confused when standing in the store and looking at huge selection all kinds of models.

We also note that a backpack, shoes and a tent are something we recommend not saving on and approaching the choice of this equipment with particular seriousness.

Experienced tourists will confirm our words that there is no universal backpack and every trip has its own nuances. The first backpack will serve you for as long as possible if, before you go to buy it, you already know exactly the schedule of your trips for the season. But even if you follow all our recommendations, only after walking several tens of kilometers with a backpack behind you will you be able to understand exactly what kind of backpack you want to wear, and what features of it are especially important to you.

The first thing you need to know about a travel backpack is that backpacks differ in volume, which is measured in liters. In a specialized store you can find backpacks from 40 before 130 liters In addition, there are women's and men's models and models, with different types of construction.

You should also decide on the type of hike and the climatic conditions that will exist along the entire route.

So, for a winter hike you need to take more things, which means you need a larger backpack. The amount of things you need to pack on a boat trip is significantly different from a trip across the mountains and plains. Please note that, for example, climbing Elbrus begins in a temperature range of about +15 +20, and at the top it can be down to -20. We recommend checking this point with the organizers of your trip in advance.

What size backpack should I choose?

Of course, you can pack all the necessary things into a small backpack, but to do this you need to know how to pack equipment correctly and considerable dexterity, which comes with experience. In addition, with a small backpack, there is often a need to hang large items “overboard”, which can cause a lot of inconvenience. With a large backpack, the situation is quite the opposite: the temptation to put a lot of unnecessary things is too great and the weight of the backpack can become simply incredible.

Depending on the build and preparation, an adult going going on a weekend trip, a backpack is enough 40-65 liters

— hiking on relatively flat terrain men need from 80 to 100 liters, women – from 60 to 80 liters;
— for mountain tourism men should stock up on a backpack of 90 liters or more, women the same 60-80 liters;
— water tourism or hiking with skis requires the presence of additional gear and equipment, therefore recommended volumes are from 130 liters for men and from 80 liters for women.

These numbers are very arbitrary, but they will help you navigate in choosing the right backpack for your first trip. We should also not forget about individual characteristics everyone. For example, a fragile girl can comfortably cover huge distances under a backpack of 80 liters, while young man Hiking can seem like hell with a 60 liter backpack. Everything is very individual and can only be learned through practice.

Some of the quality backpack manufacturers make backpacks in sizes (from S to XL) or with the ability to adjust the size yourself.

Types of backpacks:

Easel backpacks They have a strong frame in their design, to which a suspension (belts, belt, straps) and a bag are attached. This version of the backpack was very popular at the end of the last century, but now it is practically not used by tourists, because... The frame is quite heavy in weight and extremely rigid to use.

Frame backpack type is now the most popular type of travel backpack, thanks to the most thoughtful weight distribution due to special inserts made of plastic or metal. Most often, the plates are sewn into the backpack, but there are also models with removable “plates”, which makes storing the backpack easier (it can be rolled up).

Soft design backpack and is due to the absence of any rigid inserts. This greatly simplifies its storage (it can be compactly folded both on a hike if necessary, and at home when there are no hikes), however, such backpacks need to be able to be laid out correctly in order to make it rigid using your own things, and this is not an easy task for beginners.

Structural elements of a tourist backpack:

Webbing system– this is 80% of your comfort on a hike. The straps should be firmly attached to the frame of the backpack, be elastic and soft, all seams should be well stitched, not slip and not cut into the neck. When trying on a backpack in a store, pay attention to the buckles; they should allow the tourist to adjust the straps in an already worn and loaded backpack.

Unloading belt– redistributes the load from the shoulders and spine to the hips. The belt should be approximately at the level of the bones on the hips. Make sure that the belt is wide enough and soft. It is very important that a comfortable buckle is attached to it, allowing you not only to adjust it to the structure of your body as much as possible, but also to quickly remove the backpack if necessary.

Flap and pockets– used mainly for storing small items that are often needed while moving, or for those items that do not fit into the main volume of the backpack. And if all modern models have a valve, and also serve to protect things from rain, then manufacturers are increasingly abandoning pockets, because By loading them, the tourist increases the volume and shifts the center of gravity of the load.

Additional loops, ties, fastenings are used to attach to a backpack necessary tools(for example, ice axes, rope, even a tent).

Lower entrance may not always be useful, especially if you have placed a rug around the entire perimeter of the backpack, so this detail may be considered “optional” when choosing your first backpack for a hike.

Waterproof cover Modern models often come with a backpack included. It protects your things from getting wet during a long trek in the rain, from dirt, and is even used to transport a backpack through water.

Your actions in the store when buying a tourist backpack:

carefully study the design of the backpack;
pay attention to the quality of the fabric and seams;
all buckles and fasteners must be strong, and ties must pass through them freely;
the material on the back should be soft and, preferably, with a ventilating insert;
the level of fastening of the straps on the back should be approximately in the middle of the shoulder blades; if this mark is noticeably higher or lower, then you should choose a different backpack according to size or height;
adjust the loaded backpack, fastening and tightening all possible fastenings, until the ideal result.

How to pack a backpack correctly

The main rule here is proper weight distribution.

Before you start packing your backpack, make a list of the things you will need on your hike, lay the items on the floor and distribute them into groups: for example, things for sleeping, general equipment, heavy items, items often used on a hike, bulky items, clothes.

Try to use the entire volume of the backpack and leave no empty spaces, because... during movement, this will lead to a shift in weight in the backpack and entail a lot of inconvenience.

And now point by point:

at the very bottom they put bulky things and things that will be useful only in the evening or while staying (sleeping clothes, sleeping bag), the tent and sleeping mat are usually secured from the outside;
the heaviest things are distributed along the back, while trying to put soft objects between things and your back, this way you will avoid sharp corners that will fit into your back;
It is better to pack the items of the group that were distributed to you in a separate bag so that you can get them out easily and not search for too long throughout the backpack;
items that you plan to use frequently (camera, phone, map, medicine, water, protective equipment from insects, etc.) should be placed at the very top to simplify the process of accessing them;
It is better to pack all small-sized items in a separate container or bag so that they do not scatter throughout the backpack;
It is better to pack documents, money, phones, chargers and anything else that is a pity in waterproof bags;
It is better to place fragile items and crumbling products as close to the top as possible.
Once your backpack is assembled, put it on, adjust it, and walk around. You should be comfortable and comfortable. If this is not the case, try moving things around to equalize the center of gravity of the load.

How to properly adjust a backpack

When you have decided what to pack for your trip and have packed your things correctly, it is time to put on your backpack and adjust it so that the trip is as comfortable as possible and does not turn into a nightmare.

The first desire - to pick up the backpack and forcefully throw it over your shoulders - should be ignored. The weight of the backpack is quite significant and such an attempt may not be successful and may even lead to injury.

In order to correctly adjust a tourist backpack filled with things, you should loosen the straps and place it, holding it by the handle, on some elevation (at home it can be a chair, table, cabinet), and only then alternately put the straps on your shoulders.
If there is no elevation at hand, then you can use your own leg bent at the knee instead.

Adjusting the backpack should begin with the lower fastenings. Pull the weight belt so that the buckle is midway between your thighs. The belt should fit your hips as anatomically as possible and take up to half the weight of the backpack.
After this, start adjusting the shoulder straps. You should not pull them up too actively, so as not to transfer all the weight from the unloading belt to your shoulders, but not too weakly, so that the backpack does not tip back when walking. Make sure that the straps do not dig into your neck and that the chest strap does not interfere with free breathing and movement.
If this is your first experience of assembling and adjusting a backpack, then we recommend walking around the apartment in it or even taking a walk around the yard in order to fit it as accurately as possible. If you are not comfortable, you should take out excess items or redistribute the weight within the backpack space.

How to wear a backpack correctly

In order to understand how to wear a backpack correctly, just follow the rules that we stated above:

You shouldn’t skimp on a backpack, but we wouldn’t recommend thoughtlessly buying the most expensive first backpack either.
You shouldn't buy a backpack online. It’s better to spend a little time, go to the store, try everything on.
You need to choose a backpack based on: a) your own anatomical features and preferences (no one has canceled the concept of a “beautiful backpack”), b) hiking conditions (hiking, mountain, water, etc.), c) quality of materials, threads and accessories, d) own feelings.
The heaviest things in the backpack should be located along the back, the most necessary ones - on top, those that will be needed only in the evening - at the very bottom.
There should be no empty spaces in the backpack.
A correctly put on and adjusted backpack is comfortable to wear, does not move anywhere when moving, and fits tightly.
With an assembled, adjusted backpack, you should walk around, try to bend in different directions, and make sure you are confident in your movements.
Please note that personal belongings on a hike should not exceed 10 kg! Another 4 to 12 kg will be added to them (depending on the duration and autonomy of the hike and your gender). Normal weight a backpack for a hike of average difficulty for 10 days for a girl is about 17 kg, and for a man about 23 kg.

We wish you nothing but the most amazing backpacking experience and hope this article helps you choose your ideal first backpacking backpack.

We also have useful articles on choosing other equipment needed for hiking.

Tourist backpacks, or trekking backpacks as they are commonly called, are very different from simple urban models. They are designed to carry loads over long distances, so all the main characteristics of the backpack must meet these requirements.

There is a division of tourist backpacks into trekking, expedition and mountaineering. In this publication we will talk about the most popular ones - trekking.

Types of travel backpacks

By design

Soft

Roughly speaking, this is an ordinary bag with straps. There may be additional pockets and compartments, side ties and a rain cover. This backpack can be used for short hikes when there is no need to carry a large amount of cargo.

There are no frame structures for weight distribution, the volume can reach up to 45 liters, the weight of the backpack is up to one kilogram. The price for soft backpacks starts from 4 to 10 thousand rubles.

Owners of such bags need to be very careful when packing and folding things, because a slight violation in the even distribution of cargo can negatively affect the tourist’s endurance during a hike.

Representatives: Nova Tour Vitim 80 v2 (2790 rubles), PRIVAL Route 45 (1980 rubles).

Frame or backpack with anatomical suspension system

Something in between soft and easel models. Frame backpacks have light metal or plastic inserts that provide additional rigidity, which allows them to better hold their shape and distribute weight.

Thanks to larger size, manufacturers add additional pockets, sections for a first aid kit, and loops for attaching trekking poles, ice axes, and skis to frame backpacks. There are also additional straps for hanging pouches and belts for securing the backpack on the chest or waist. It is worth understanding that not all models on the market have the elements described above; they often use assemblies for different types hiking trips— mountaineering, water, simple walking, etc.

Today, the most popular type of backpack for hiking. The cost of anatomical backpacks starts from 8 to 25 thousand rubles. This is the average price!

Representatives: Tatonka Arapilies 100 (from 6,000 rubles), Deuter Aircontact PRO 70 (12,500 rubles), Tatonka Yukon 60 (10,480 rubles).

Easel

In fact, it is a metal frame with a suspension system. You can hang anything on this backpack exoskeleton and attach loads as you please, because the metal frame (aluminum) will always keep its shape well and evenly distribute the weight over the back and hips of the carrier.

The main feature for which easel backpacks are purchased for hiking trips is the ability to carry heavy loads over long distances. So that at the end of the day the porter’s back does not take the shape of a question mark, but remains slim and with beautiful posture.

Using fasteners, you can attach both other backpacks and all kinds of loads - a canister of water, tents and more. Weight limit is 50 kilograms. The price range fluctuates too much, because this is not a mass market, so you won’t find many models to choose from. On average, expect from 5 to 20 thousand rubles.

By volume

The volume of backpacks is measured in liters. Everything here is quite simple and all models can be divided into three classifications:

From 75 to 120 liters - top-end, largest and most expensive models;
From 45 to 75 - a medium-sized backpack, suitable for a small hike of 2-3 days;
Up to 45 liters - in this category there are mainly soft hiking backpacks, without a frame or anatomical body kit.

Now we are simply describing all the options, but you can read the reasoning, thoughts and advice about which backpack to choose for yourself at the end of this article.

By material

Today, three types of materials are popular, from which 90% of all backpacks for tourism are made:

Avizent or also known as aviation tarpaulin. It is cheap and has good wear resistance.

Moisture resistance is not the best, but after special treatment with water-repellent impregnations it can not allow moisture to pass through for a long time. It is imperative to use rain bags on avisent backpacks, even with light rain.

The backpack of their visitor is not suitable for water tourism. But, if you are planning travel in a dry climate, then you can safely buy or sew yourself a backpack from avisent. The appearance is certainly not so great and is inferior to its more expensive counterparts, but the price, sometimes it is what matters most.

Oxford used in all backpacks in the mid-price range. The fabric is thinner and lighter than avisent, and also has a more pleasant appearance.

Oxford fabric with matting weave

There are a huge number of fabrics called "Oxford", but originally it was a fabric for making men's shirts.

Cordura is a nylon fabric with excellent moisture-resistant and frost-resistant qualities, as well as beautiful view. It is a little heavier than Oxford, but this in no way diminishes its popularity among manufacturers of quality hiking backpacks.

Cordura is several times stronger than fabrics made from cotton and other plant materials. Melting point over 200 degrees Celsius. The fabric crackles (rustles) a little when walking due to friction, so it is clearly not suitable for hunters.

Pendants, straps and additional elements

The most important thing in this section is the suspension system. They are different types, but the following elements are always present:

X2 suspension system from Tatonka

The entire system contains reinforcing plates, straps and belts, which should be mounted on the back as comfortably as possible and distribute the weight evenly. There are two types of pendants on sale, with and without adjustable mounting height. We described which one you should choose at the end of the article.

Beginners should also pay attention to:

Hip belt, for fixing the bottom of the backpack on the tourist’s belt;
Straps with a comfortable shape to suit the anatomy of the shoulders and back;
Adjustable mounts for hanging additional hanging items.

In addition, tourist backpacks can be equipped with additional mounts for ice axes, skis, snowboards, and hiking poles. Many manufacturers add a water supply system (Hydration System) to allow the traveler to drink water on the go.

Which travel backpack should I buy?

To do this, ask yourself questions:

1. Are you planning to go hiking for more than 2-3 days? For such short hikes, backpacks up to 45-60 liters are suitable. If you plan to make longer hikes, then you need to take a closer look at 75-100 liter models.

2. What is the average distance you will walk? Everything is simple here, you can walk up to 10 km a day with a simple soft backpack without any fancy suspension system; if you plan to walk long distances, then you need to choose a frame backpack.

This also includes the question of choosing a suspension; for large hiking trips, it must be anatomical and with a hip belt (waist belt), which helps to evenly distribute weight from the back to the legs and pelvis.

The presence of well-thought-out back ventilation will give freshness to your back during long walks and save more strength. But with ventilation, everything is simple; all kinds of meshes and air exhaust plates are added to almost all modern models of the middle and high price categories.

1. Famous brand most often - quality! I am of the opinion that popular companies and more expensive models already provide best quality with a wide range of possibilities. Believe me, the worst thing that can happen on a hike is having to repair your backpack. When choosing a backpack for hiking, first of all look at the quality of the materials, how all the supporting elements are stitched - the straps, the suspension system, the waist belt. A good indicator of quality would be a warranty from the manufacturer.

Popular brands: Tatonka, Deuter, Nova Tour, Black Diamond, Pinguin, Husky.

2. Buy your first backpack with an adjustable suspension. In the future, when you become a more experienced hiker, you can choose a backpack with sewn straps, this will reduce the overall weight and will be more convenient. But, while you are just starting to join the hiking culture and do not yet know what height and type of attachment of the suspension system will suit you, so it is better to take your first backpack with an adjustable attachment point for the suspension.

3. High-quality fittings. These are all plastic elements - fasteners, removable elements, buckle adjusters and the belt fastener itself. It is especially easy to damage low-quality fittings during frost; plastic elements can simply crumble and you will have to spend time tightening the straps with improvised means, and I will tell you this - it is very difficult.

Zippers should have large tabs that can be easily grasped with mittens. We won’t focus too much on this, just take high-quality fittings, for example, from Duraflex.

4. Price. You should not choose the most expensive models on the market; they are usually not designed for professionals and contain many unnecessary elements. As they say - “The truth is in the middle.” When choosing a travel backpack, look at the average price in your segment or maybe above average, but not at the most expensive or cheapest.

5. Think about useful little things. We often focus on something big and completely forget about the little things that can make life much easier. I'm talking about things like:

Waterproof bag for documents and money. Some backpack manufacturers give such a bag as a gift, but if you don’t have one, it’s worth buying;
Light accumulating holders for zippers. They make it very convenient to unfasten your backpack at night when you need to quickly get something and don’t have a flashlight at hand. Such holders must be purchased separately as accessories;
Waterproof bottom;
Reflective elements;
Laptop compartment.

Inexpensive travel backpacks

Let's give an example of several popular models that are most often chosen and purchased in Russia.

A popular tourist model from the Tatonka company, with a huge volume of 120 liters. Bison has everything you need for long hiking trips - anatomical suspension, ventilated back, rigid frame, water supply, rain cover and many other pleasant little things.

For a first-time backpacking backpack, it is most likely a little expensive and has unnecessary elements (superfluous for a beginner), nevertheless, it is a worthy option for a decent price.

The owners highlight very high-quality tailoring and materials that can withstand heavy weight and the volume of cargo carried. The developers have worked out a system of pockets, fasteners and hangers - this backpack is a real transformer, ideal for long hikes.

Cost 25,000 rubles.

And this is a frame backpack from Deuter, by the way the company’s top seller. The volume of the backpack is 85 liters, which is ideal for a 2-5 day trip. In addition to the hip belt, Aircontact also has a chest belt, which further strengthens the backpack.

What is? Ice ax mount, drinking system outlet, rain cover. Unfortunately, there is no convenient side pocket, like the Tatonka Bison model.

Owners of Deuter Aircontact note the successful design of the suspension system, which is ideally suited to the anatomy of the back. High-quality fittings and a set of a large number of external pockets and fasteners.

Cost 13,500 rubles.

100 liter budget model from Tatonka. Such a low price is formed due to the exclusion of some elements - a raincoat, a water supply system, a reduction in pockets, straps, etc. The design itself is made in a simple, so to speak basic version, containing the essentials.

Overall, a simple and reliable backpack, which is designed to carry loads with a basic anatomical suspension and an aluminum frame, without any frills. A popular model among beginners who are just starting to hike and travel.

Some modifications of the Arapilies 100 do not have a height-adjustable suspension and few color modifications. The main advantages are the price and high-quality frame.