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Is There Such A Thing As The Perfect Backpack?

Finding the right pack to take on the road isn’t quite as simple as popping into your local travel store and picking the first one that takes your fancy.

It’s more like choosing a travel buddy… because the pack you choose is going to be up close and personal (and housing all of your belongings) all the way, and you’re going to want one that doesn’t drive you crazy.

Every pack has its pros and cons. This one has too many straps, another too few. Too big, too small, too many pockets, not enough pockets. And every traveller is different, of course, carrying everything from techno-gadgetry (laptops, cellphones, cameras and all the many cables that go with them) to hairdryers and evening wear.

So, how to choose the perfect backpack for you? Well, if you’re not quite sure, Christopher Cook of Vagabondish has some handy advice on what to look for (easy access, suspension systems, the right size) and how to make your final decision (try it on, in-store, filled with weights, grill the shop attendants).

And Jacob Bielanski, on his own personal quest to find the ultimate backpack, should give you an idea of what to avoid (he learnt the hard way) and what to seek out (cheap, tough and practical).

As you’ll see from the comments below Bielanski’s article, there’s no such thing as the perfect backpack for everyone – there are just too many variables – but the ultimate backpack for you?… Well, that’s entirely possible (with a little bit of trial and error along the way).

(Photo: Denni Schnapp/Flickr)

Posted in General Travel, Travel Gear, Travel Tips & Planning