Types of backpacks and their features. Tips for choosing a backpack according to your needs

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

There are a huge number of complex issues in our life. What is its meaning? What is our purpose? Where to find the balance between evil and good? How can you take a break from the constant hustle and bustle? Why are there different types of backpacks and which one to choose? Quite often, a person is faced with these dilemmas… Moreover, if some philosophical answer can be found to the first questions, then the last one will have to be thought about.

In this article we will look at different types of backpacks, photos of which you will find here, and also tell you how to choose the right model.

Soft backpacks

This is the most popular type of backpack. The name tells us that these models do not have a rigid frame (for example, backpacks in the form of animals). They are mainly medium or small volume, not designed for long-term transfer of heavy loads.

Frame backpacks

It is worth noting that in such models a special frame is provided, which is responsible for comfortable and even distribution of the load. Thanks to this solution and the special design of the hip belt and straps, heavy loads can be carried in them for a long time. Of course, among such models it will be impossible to find anyfunny or overtly childish, like a tiger backpack.

Easel models can be distinguished separately among all frame backpacks. They are used in heavy expeditions that require carrying a large amount of cargo over long distances. They are based on a powerful metal frame. Such backpacks can be found in professionals who clearly understand their purpose.

A little later we will look into the design features of the belt and back of such, one might say, purely professional products.

Hiking backpacks

These are types of backpacks (their photo is presented in this article) with a volume of 50 liters or more, equipped with an anatomically shaped belt and straps. In addition, such models are mainly complemented by an intricate system of drawstrings and belts, slings, fasteners and loops designed for additional equipment. The most popular backpacks among outdoor enthusiasts are models for tourism, as they are versatile and multifunctional. The following types of tourist backpacks can be distinguished separately among hiking backpacks - expeditionary and trekking.

Trekking backpacks

Such models are rarely found with a volume of more than 50 liters, since they are designed for short trips, made from lightweight materials, have a lightweight back design, and do not have additional fasteners and pockets. Of course, among them you will not find a backpack in the form of a toy - after all, they are intended for tourism, and not for the city. Their vocation is to lighten the weight of the equipment as a whole, which is necessarycarry over. At the same time, be careful, mostly lightweight trekking backpacks have a certain limit on the total load that they can withstand in order to ensure trouble-free and comfortable transportation of cargo. Otherwise, you run the risk of at least having a hike with a feeling of discomfort, and at the very least, getting a stretch in your back muscles.

Backpacks for long hikes (expeditionary) mainly have a volume of more than 50 liters, and sometimes even exceed the mark of 100 liters. Such volumes make it possible to carry a significant amount of equipment over long distances for a very long time, especially if there is a need to ensure autonomous existence for a couple of weeks.

Urban backpacks

Considering the types of urban backpacks, it is worth noting right away that they are designed for daily use in the stone jungle. At the same time, they help mainly to carry with comfort what is necessary for study, the city, work, and a set of equipment and things that is needed every day. Basically, their volume does not exceed 30 liters.

Student and school backpacks

As the name implies, these are all types of school backpacks designed to carry school supplies. In addition, there are original models for the office that are suitable for traveling to work and can fit a tablet, laptop, a bunch of chargers, brakes, documents and other necessary things that are important to have with you at work or in the office.

In addition,modern manufacturers follow the latest trends, producing even bags in the form of a backpack. They offer their users not only functional, comfortable, but also funny models. So, for example, today you can buy a backpack in the form of a toy. In addition, there are special models for gadgets.

Sports backpacks

It should be said right away that these are miniature copies of their older "brothers" - large tourist models. They can include a pocket designed for a drinking system, all kinds of ties, even have a special removable valve. At the same time, the main difference that distinguishes them from the general mass is the variety of colors, which, as a rule, distinguishes all kinds of backpacks for teenagers. They are comfortable to wear a change of shoes, clothes and equipment, and also look bright against the backdrop of a dim city.

Attack and ski backpacks

Cool high-tech backpacks with a capacity of about 40 liters are designed specifically to carry extreme equipment. Equipped with pockets for avalanche equipment, as well as a bunch of all kinds of whistles, very useful eyelets and attachment points for carrying snowshoes, ice equipment, skis, snowboards and everything that will help you get to high peaks and then safely descend from there.

At the same time, ski backpacks are often also equipped with rigid back frames, while their purpose is not to distribute weight, but to protect your back from the consequences of possible falls. Assault backpacks that are designed to conquer difficultascents and peaks, have additional external special slings designed for hanging and securing equipment that may be required on the route at any time. These types of backpacks are mostly lightweight. Most often, they have an unusual shape for good streamlining and fit as closely as possible to the human body.

Bicycle backpacks

Light tricky models for cyclists with a volume of 15 liters. They are suitable for holding bicycle parts and tool kit, drinking system and additional equipment.

These types of backpacks should not be confused with special trunks. Basically, they have a certain design of the back: a frame mesh that “takes” it away from the back, which thus provides good ventilation when moving. In addition, this mesh completely follows the contour of the cyclist's back when moving, which significantly reduces the load.

Kids backpacks

At some point, graceful moms and brutal dads get tired of carrying comical backpacks in the form of brightly colored animals. Let everyone wear their own things! Children's models are very different from cute and bright, designed to carry a pair of diapers, a bottle and a banana, up to functional serious models for older kids. In addition, there are even real hiking types of children's backpacks, in which kids will carry equipment and food along with adults.

It is worth highlighting the baby carriers separately. The appearance of this little happiness in you is not at all a reason completelygive up your favorite hobby, especially since all kinds of kangaroo backpacks are now common. Take the crumbs with you, the cleanest mountain air is useful for him! This is a special range of backpacks where the baby can get comfortable and do some of his own business while you sweat on a difficult climb.

Next, let's talk about how the design of the backpack determines its further purpose.

Travel duration

This is the main factor. Whether you're heading out on a picnic, heading out on a polar expedition, or heading out on a weekend hike, it all depends on which types of backpacks are best suited for a given purpose.

Physique

Don't believe people who say size doesn't matter. A comfortable backpack should be selected according to the height and width of your torso.

Now let's look at the simple rules to remember when choosing a backpack.

1: Don't miss with volume

What size backpack to choose? It depends on the type and duration of your trip:

• Daily outing or weekend hike - 28-40 liters. You don't need to lug 2 buckets of gear and clothes with you, you have stable predictable weather, so even a stuffed toy backpack will do.
• Hiking for 4-6 days - up to 50 liters. Watch the weather carefully, do not pack too much. This backpack will perfectly fit a sleeping bag, a tent, food, necessary warm clothes, public and some personal equipment: dishes, a cosmetic bag, etc.
• Hike for 7-10 days - 50-60 l. It's already enoughserious event. Plan carefully and foresee any possible complications. Such backpacks are perfect for hiking in the Crimea or the Ukrainian Carpathians.
• Hiking for 10-16 days - 60-80 liters. Here you are already boldly carrying a tent, personal and public equipment, a supply of provisions for 2 weeks and your own small supply, equipment necessary to overcome turbulent rivers or difficult passes, change of shoes, etc.
• Expedition - a backpack from 80 liters. This event requires a capacious, durable and cool model that will not let you down in a difficult situation and will be comfortable to carry everything you need for a long time.

These figures are the average value. A lot depends on your needs, skills, etc. For example, the displacement in the hot summer will be less, since you can go through the whole trip in shorts, while in the cold winter you will need more types of backpacks, since the sleeping bag will be huge and things are bulky.

2: Pre-purchase fitting

It is necessary to choose a backpack of the right size that fits well on the back. The heaviest model will not break you if it is chosen correctly. Choose a backpack individually and for a long time. Do not be afraid to annoy the sales assistant, his job is to help you choose a model for travel.

If a backpack of small volume can be chosen quite easily, then models over 50 liters are often equipped with an incredible number of fine adjustments that can cause an inexperienced person toan attack of nausea and dizziness.

Types of women's backpacks are designed taking into account the anatomical details of girls and are designed for their body proportions. It's worth paying attention to. Basically, they have a corresponding patch or print on the backpack itself and a special mark in the name.

3: Adequate tuning

So, the backpack is in your hands. It remains only to understand what to do with it. At the moment, the design of the backpack is basically very unusual and has basic customization points, which we will now discuss.

Adjustable backrest

On some of the models, the length of the back is adjustable, which makes it possible to accurately fit the size. A great option for people who find standard sizes uncomfortable. There is a small minus - these backs slightly increase the weight of the backpack, although not by much.

Adjustable stabilizing shoulder straps

Above the shoulder straps there are additional adjustment straps sewn to the top of the back of the backpack. With the help of them, you need to form an angle of 45˚ between the back and the bend of the strap. This will prevent the backpack from "falling" back, transferring the load to your lower back. At the same time, he keeps your center of gravity in place in this position. If you are forced to keep the angle more than 60 and less than 30 degrees during the adjustment process, this indicates that you need to try a different size backpack.

Breast tightening

Incredibly useful strap. He holds the straps of the backpack in place. From this they sit where you need and do not slip. In addition, their adequate position does not allow the centerthe heaviness of the backpack shifts from awkward movements, which is important, since this can lead to comical consequences, and sometimes even to injuries.

Stabilizing adjustable waist straps

On the unloading belt is an additional sling that additionally keeps the backpack from hanging out. They need to be kept tight, while not overdoing it.

The most “convenient” part for moving loads is considered to be a donkey walking near the hip area. There is the most stable large group of bones, and the load is directed to the strongest muscle groups in the human body. A well-chosen backpack transfers the bulk of the load to this particular place, without loading the upper shoulder girdle. This is done using a special frame. Now consider their most common types.

Rama

This is basically a light alloy tube running around the perimeter of the back of the backpack. It is sewn in such a way that the maximum weight is concentrated on the unloading belt. A huge number of popular brands use this design. A well-made frame turns a hike with a heavy backpack into an easy walk, even if you carry an elephant behind your shoulders. At the moment, it is quite difficult to find a normal tourist backpack without such a frame: even affordable and simple models are equipped with a semblance of such a frame.

Crossed Stripes

Made of aluminum, two strips of 2-3 cm wide are sewn into the structure or stand in an X-shape. In addition to excellent weight transfer, theyprovide mobility and good flexibility.

Stripes

It is worth noting that 2 aluminum strips 2-3 cm wide are sewn into the design, which are V-shaped and converge on the belt. The most common type of frame, which is also one of the simplest, while helping to greatly facilitate the transfer of a huge backpack.

Various details of the back construction can sometimes be made of polyethylene or high-strength plastic, foam rubber or EVA foam, polyamide compounds, as well as other modern materials. Their task is often to form additional stiffeners, and they also do not allow the load to rest against the back of a person. The pads that are on the back, like the stretched mesh, are necessary for ventilation. Your back will still sweat, and how much it will do depends on the design of the back.

4: Pack the right backpack

It is necessary not only to pack a backpack, but also to think about how you will pull something out of it. So where do we carry what cargo, and also how do we get it from there?

Main compartment

It's simple here. This is a large main compartment of the pack that will keep you clutter all the time and will also store your essentials for the duration of your hike.

Sleeping bag compartment

Also called "rat hole". This is the lowest compartment of the backpack, separated from the main compartment by a partition. It is worth noting that in hiking backpacks in this place there isa sleeping bag, while in urban and sports models there are mainly changeable shoes, wet clothes, sportswear, and something similar. Some also use it for equipment - in general, it does not matter what exactly you will store there, since the main function of this compartment is quick access to the internal.

Pockets

It's a good idea to put all the right size and essential items (eg water bottles, first aid kit, change of shoes, snacks, etc.) into pockets. However, some of them are specially made for carrying a shovel, helmet or other types of equipment.

Attachment points

Some items, including trekking poles and ice axes, are best worn outside. For this purpose, there are special loops on the backpacks. These lines are often seen on assault models, in which you can hang quickdraws, friends, carabiners and other mountaineering equipment.

Top valve

It must be said right away that this is the main access point to the backpack itself. Basically, there is also a pocket where it is very convenient to carry all kinds of necessary little things, such as cameras, sun cream, repellents or cards. For some models, this valve is removable, then from it you can organize a comfortable daypack for yourself, which is suitable for a short walk from the camp or the radial.

Rain-Cover

Most of today's backpacks have their own special rain cover that can protect your equipment from getting wet. In addition to external protection, you can use sealed inner liners, for example, hermetic covers.

In addition to the top access flap, many bulky backpacks also have front access through a panel or zipper. This is very convenient if you need to get something from the very bottom of the compartment, while you do not want to search through the entire backpack.

The backpack must also be properly packed before the trip. Keep the heaviest things down and closer to your back, in a special compartment - a sleeping bag, and light little things fit well in the valves and pockets. A backpack, even loaded with your camping belongings, should sit comfortably on you, but you are not going to suffer, but to rest.

Conclusion

It is worth remembering that the brightness of impressions and the quality of your rest often directly depend on high-quality equipment. It would be a shame if, instead of enjoying the moments of adventure and views, you start to engage in nonsense, having entered into an unequal fight with your own equipment. There are a large number of world brands that produce high-quality equipment. Which company to choose a product? It's up to you, because there are many successful designs. Equip wisely and provide yourself with a pleasant and interesting hike of any duration!