This week we will look at the ‘Backpacker’
The Backpacker
If a backpacker takes a suitcase are they still a backpacker? It’s true that due to the nature of a backpacker’s travel (multiple destinations in one extended trip – usually staying only a few nights in one location before moving on), that a backpack is the most sensible option. It allows the bag to be carried when moving from one destination to the next and means the carrier is unrestricted in what they do. It doesn’t make sense for a backpacker to take a hiking pack though – unless they are hiking at some stage. Hiking packs are designed for hiking, not for long term living out of your bag.
Often times backpackers could get away with a suitcase – the convenience of the wheels would make getting around much easier and they are easier to pack and live out of. Their only disadvantage is that they are cumbersome to carry, so for the off occasion the backpacker needs to pick them up they are not suitable. Thankfully these are no longer the only two options – with the world of wheeled backpacks, wheeled duffel bags and travel packs, backpackers can select something far more suited to their needs.
Wheeled backpacks are a great all-rounder choice. Look for one with a panel opening that packs like a suitcase. If you will need to carry your bag for extended periods ensure the pack has a comfortable harness and a waist strap for extra support. Also consider getting a removable daypack, as this will allow you to have a small bag for daytrips and overnight trips that attaches to the big bag making managing the two far easier.
If you opt for a travel pack, look for the same features, a panel opening and removable daypack, these make living out of the bag much easier.
Key Factors to consider when choosing a bag are:
Most Popular Options
The Osprey Sojourn Range –
The Osprey Sojourn is perfect for backpackers. It’s a premium quality backpack on wheels, and it’s loaded with practical features for all different sorts of trips. Available in 3 sizes, the Sojourn packs like a suitcase making it easy to access your gear, and the included backpack harness is an anti-gravity harness with waist strap, allowing the user to carry the pack for short distances up to day trips or a 2-day hike depending on pack weight. The Sojourn features a high road chassis (high clearance from the ground) and oversized durable wheels ensuring the case is durable enough to be dragged off road.
The Osprey Sojourn is a more expensive bag in its category, it is however backed by a lifetime warranty and comes highly backed by the staff at The Luggage Professionals.
SHOP THE OSPREY SOJOURN RANGE HERE
Osprey Farpoint/Fairview Travel Pack – The Farpoint and Fairview range are travel packs designed specifically for men (Farpoint) and women (Fairview), that integrate a comfortable harness and a high quality pack that has a panel opening. With the gender specific fit, the pack is comfortable to carry even for extended periods of time, yet the panel opening makes it easy to live out of.
SHOP THE OSPREY FARPOINT/FAIRVIEW RANGE HERE
Also consider the Osprey Daylite daypack which attached to both the Sojourns and Farpoints/Fairviews.
Images via Osprey