By Oscar Davis

Are you planning to go on a trip? Will you be willing to forgo the comforts of rented vehicles and posh accommodations for a no-frills, independent type of travel?

Backpacking has become increasingly popular nowadays, with backpackers looking to travel to different places or countries with only their essentials at hand.

The thought of backpacking conjures fears to most travelers accustomed to the comforts or luxury of planned vacations.

Backpacking Light

For most traditional travelers, backpacking is unknown territory. However, this travel mode has several benefits that will make you consider going on a trip as a backpacker. Namely:

Backpacking encourages traveling light, so you learn to make use of the resources that you have at hand.

You also get more exercise and physical activity compared to conventional travel.

Traveling without any itinerary restrictions encourages adventurousness but also teaches you how to manage your time wisely.

Backpackers become better problem-solvers by having the confidence to deal with unplanned circumstances.

Taking on the challenge to travel freely allows backpackers to become more spontaneous and enjoy every moment. Embarking on an unrestrictive journey helps create memories that last a lifetime.

Backpacking allows you to discover new cultures and develop new connections.

Essential Gear

Before embarking on a backpacking trip, make sure you have all the essential gear that will help you stay safe and comfortable on your journey. A high-quality travel bag suitable for backpacking is your best bet in keeping all your belongings secure and protected throughout the trip.

Choosing the Best Travel Bag for Backpacking

Just because you are backpacking means you can not travel in style. Fortunately, travel bags for backpackers are no longer limited to enormous backpacks in dull colors or unattractive designs.

It is safe to say that modern backpack manufacturers successfully combine style and function with their offerings. Selecting a suitable travel bag for backpacking should not be complicated – look at these simple tips:

 The Right Size Backpack 

There is no such thing as the perfect backpack size. Every traveler has different needs and capacities. It is essential, however, that the bag is proportional to the body of the person carrying it. In general, a backpack size should be about 40 liters up to 60 liters.

Choosing a too small size of a backpack may prevent you from fitting all your essentials inside. A pack that is too big, on the other hand, can hurt your back and hamper your movement. It is crucial to select a travel bag that has adequate space for your essentials.

If you must choose a backpack that is too large for you to carry, you may need to reconsider the items that you are bringing with you.

You may also opt for travel bags that let you add detachable packs – these extra packs can be stowed away when not in use.

Look for High-Quality Material

Backpacks should be made from high-quality, durable, but lightweight material. The more durable the material is, the better it will survive being thrown around, dragged, or squeezed into cramped spaces.

Since you will be carrying your bag most of the time, it should be able to survive different kinds of weather conditions.

It is best to choose a travel pack made from waterproof or semi-waterproof material, so you do not need to worry about the contents of your bag getting wet.

 Consider Versatility 

It is crucial to choose a travel bag that suits your lifestyle so that you can maximize the uses no matter where you go. Do you need one that can be converted into a wheeled backpack?

Or maybe one with extra handles that you can stow away when not required? Some travel packs can be attached to a suitcase for added convenience. There are many travel backpacks options to choose from, so make sure to find one that works for you.

 Never Buy Cheap Backpacks 

The price of a backpack is often a telltale sign of its craftsmanship. There are also known brands trusted by hiking andbackpacking enthusiasts, and their bags will never be lower than $100.

If the prices of big-name brands are outside of your budget, you can investigate alternatives such as hiking gear brands that offer durable backpacks for a lower price tag.

Backpacking lets you see the world as you please. You choose what you want to do, when and how you want to do it.

One of the struggles that backpackers face is carrying the wrong travel bag, which results in an uncomfortable and less enjoyable experience.

There are different types of backpacks as there are different kinds of travelers; it is best, therefore, to choose a bag that fits your unique preferences and travel requirements.

Oscar Davis is a freelance writer and backpacking fan from Leeds, UK.

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