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I am unable to precisely recall the initial occasion where I packed a travel backpack, but the earliest memory I possess was during summertime camping expeditions with the Scouts when I was nine years old. Indeed, backpacking has been a lifelong pursuit of mine. In fact, I have toured Europe, Asia, and America with the same rucksack up until just last year.
Following 18 years, I lastly expected to get another bag. Since next, I have journeyed with the equivalent backpack for a few months on all kinds of travels. Event on an “interrail” and business travels with me. Thus, I believe you can rely on me to help you choose and load the perfect travel backpack, regardless of whether it is for a long-term or a few days adventures.
The initial section we put together here is to help you choose the optimal backpack for extended trips, but if you already have your own backpack and want to skip directly to packing, go to the next section.
Table of Contents
CHOOSING THE BEST BACKPACK
Opting for an ideal backpack is a pivotal choice, as you will invest numerous hours with it whether you are mapping a route through Southeast Asia, Camino de Santiago in Spain, or a road excursion through the Canadian Rockies.
Purchasing a good backpack is a long-term investment. If you buy a high-quality one and properly care for it, it can last a lifetime. And this is an important decision because once you start traveling as a backpacker, you may not want to travel any other way.
Consider these four essential classifications when selecting a backpack:
CAPACITY
A common question many folks ask is how much carrying capacity the backpack should have. Based on my experience, a larger size is often preferable. My pack has a 65-liter volume. I rarely fill it entirely except for extended trips to frigid areas.
Additionally, I`ve never faced any issues using it as a carry-on for air travel without paying baggage fees.
I wish to highlight that I carry a men`s backpack, as I did not locate any in the women`s section with equivalent capacity that appealed to me aesthetically. Furthermore, like deodorant and razor blades – two identical items that often cost more when marketed towards women solely due to pink coloring.
fastening
When selecting an appropriate backpack, the fastening mechanism proves most important. The weight should distribute to the hips rather than shoulders to prevent strain on the back.
There should be an adjustable Side Release Buckle on the hip matching your figure and one on the chest so the backpack straps doesn’t pull you back.
Once the straps have been adjusted to fit one`s body, the weight on the shoulders can be released by altering the fastenings on the sides. When the weight feels comfortably settled on the hips, it will be known that it is properly fitted. The positions of the different buckles are marked in the image below.
It is best to obtain a backpack that you can return if you are unsure it is the perfect one. You can go hiking with the backpack packed with full weight to decide that this is the best for you.
With that, you also can check if the padding of the Shoulder Straps causes chafing.
POCKETS
The next thing to analyze is the positioning of the different pockets. These are the pockets that I find indispensable in a backpack for long-term travel:
- Inside the main compartment, there should be two independent compartments but with the choice to connect them.
- Spaces on the sides of the hip attachment accessories, to keep certain items like the phone or lip balm conveniently accessible so that you don’t have to take off your backpack to get to them.
- Upper pocket with an interior security pocket. Perfect for the passport.
- Backside pocket. For simple access to low-volume items you want to locate quickly.
- Container for holding water. To have water available at all times.
FABRIC QUALITY
Something else to take into account is the material type and quality. Pay special attention to fabrics that allow ventilation and choose brands that offer a lifetime guarantee (in case defects arise in the product).
OTHER IMPROVEMENTS
There are numerous other factors to take into account when choosing the perfect backpack for your trip.
MAT STRAPS
In the previous image, you can see the back straps which are very useful for things like fastening insulating sleeping mats. It is a mandatory accessory when choosing a backpack if you plan to camp. Other models have the straps at the top.
AIR CHANNEL SYSTEM
To keep your back ventilated, it is preferable if the backpack incorporates air channels between your back and the load. These channels are also depicted in the preceding image.
OPENING FOR HYDRATIONpacks
Some models have a small opening in the backpack to use a hydration tube. With this, you can drink water without needing to stop and take the backpack off.
height adjustment
Some brands also permit height adjustment so the backpack conforms even better to your anatomy.
As mentioned at the start, I used the same backpack for 18 straight years. When it was filled with holes and partly fallen apart, I wanted to get the same model. However, the company that created it had shut down, so I examined options until I found the one I hope will accompany me on all my trips going forward. After analyzing different selections, I opted for this model since it fulfilled everything stated above:
Backpack – 65L
HOW TO PACK A BACKPACK FOR LONGTERM TRAVEL
We will now cover the specifics. Every journey is distinctive so we will ask you a series of inquiries and we will redirect you as indicated by your responses throughout the post.
But initially, let`s assess the basics for all travel types. This is how we begin preparations whether the trip is to the city, countryside, Interrail, camping, adventure excursion or Camino de Santiago.
INDISPENSABLE THINGS IN YOUR TRAVEL BACKPACK FOR ANY TRIP
These are the indispensable items that we take on 100% of our trips. It must be the first thing you consider when preparing your travel backpack.
toiletry bag
- Soap travel bottles
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hairbrush
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Tweezers
- Nail clipper
- Lip balm
- Hand cream
- Menstrual cup
CLOTHES
- Swim attire – 1 or 2 (Depending on if the trip lasts over two weeks)
- Quick drying towel
- Raincoat
- Tracksuit Bottoms – 1 or 2 changes (Depending on whether it is a trip of more than two weeks)
- Undergarments – 5 changes (regardless of trip duration)
- Undergarments – 5 sets (regardless of trip duration).
- T-shirts – 5 changes (regardless of trip duration) preserved the numerical information intact.
♦ Traveling to a warmer locale
- Shorts – 1 or 2 (Depending on whether it is a trip lasting more than two weeks)
- Clothing items like dresses or jumpsuits – 2 or 3 (Depending on whether it is a trip longer than two weeks)
♦ Traveling to a colder destination
- Extended pants—either 1 or 2 pairs (depending on if the excursion spans over three weeks). Sports-style if it`s an adventure/mountain journey or denim if visiting an urban area.
- Long sleeved top – 1 or 2 (Determined again whether it is a trip of over three weeks). Sweatshirt if it is an adventure and mountain trip or jersey if it is to the city.
To see the location names, use this Grand Canyon map.
OTHER ESSENTIAL THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT FORGET
- Passport
- Wallet
- Boarding pass
- Booking tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Phone charger
- Powerbank
- First-aid kit
Acquiring proper travel coverage for Indonesia is also crucial. This article discusses travel insurance options for Indonesia.
FIRST QUESTION
DO YOU PLAN TO CAMP DURING YOUR TRIP?
PACKing A BACKPACK FOR A CAMPING TRIP
If it is your first time going camping, I understand that you may find it difficult and possibly uncomfortable. However, once you try it, there will be no hotels that can make you feel happier and with the same feeling of freedom. Do not hesitate to ask if you have any questions, we almost always camp on our travels.
TENT
Although it is a bit more expensive to choose an ultralight and compact tent, this is always the best solution if you are backpacking. We all like “easy-open” tents but they are bulky and uncomfortable to transport.
I recommend that you choose one fit for all seasons , so you do not need to have two different tents for cold and warm destinations.
SLEEPING BAG
Until recently, we used individual winter sleeping bags. But then we bought a double sleeping bag which we could not live without nowadays.
Choose a winter sleeping bag that can be used during all seasons. In the summer, we use it open as a sheet and it is very comfortable too.
MAT
The best option are always the simpler mats, although if you are going to do a road trip, another option is to choose inflatable mats.
ILLUMINATION
We always carry a USB rechargeable lamp for the tent. It is a MUST in your travel backpack when camping.
SECOND QUESTION
ARE YOU TRAVELING TO A COLD DESTINATION?
PACKING A BACKPACK FOR COLD DESTINATIONS
Seeing the Aurora Borealis can become a frozen nightmare if you forget one of the following items in your backpack.
THERMAL COAT
Choose a double layer coat. They weigh/bulk less and protects you better than the padded ones in the cold. If you are going to travel to a cold place, try one from a sportswear brand.
SOCKS
Keeping your feet warm is the best way to maintain your body temperature. That’s why you must choose thermal socks that keep your feet dry. Also, if you plan to trek, select seamless socks to prevent blisters.
GLOVES
If you travel to a cold place, forget about the typical wool gloves. It is better to opt for special gloves meant for winter sports. Besides, for having better protection against the cold, they are waterproof which will keep your hands dry. Our favorites are from The Heat Company – with features like touch screen fingers, heating pocket, and removable mittens. With them you have full mobility on your fingers to use the camera or mobile with the gloves still on, making them the best gloves for photography.Here, you can find our experience using them along with a discount coupon in case you want a pair.
HAT
There are numerous types and offers for hats on the market these days. For those of you who cannot stand the cold very well like me, I advise you to try on a thermal trapper hat with synthetic polyester hair lining. They are the warmest since they also cover your ears.
NECK GAITER
While you prepare your backpacks do not forget to put a thermal neck gaiter.
THERMAL Pants
Choose lightweight thermal pants with a special material that you can wear comfortably under your pants. Essential especially when you go hiking in cold places.
THERMAL Top
Remember to take a thermal top when you travel to places with extreme conditions. It will be the best match for your coat, so you do not get cold.
CHEMICAL Warmers
I discovered this great invention when I came to live in the United States. Once you try them, you cannot imagine traveling to a cold place without them. You can find them for hands and feet, and they usually last from 8 to 12 hours. It’s incredible how well they work.
THIRD QUESTION
ARE YOU GOING TO DO EXCURSIONS OR TREKS?
PACK A BACKPACK for TREKKING OR HIKING
FOOTWEAR
Choosing appropriate footwear is fundamental if we plan to be walking for many hours, whether for visiting cities or hiking.
When preparing the backpack for a trip, we should consider that the footwear usually takes a lot of space. I usually choose to wear two of the following three types of footwear:
- Hiking boots: Best option for long treks on difficult terrain or in cold places.
- Lightweight sneakers with cushioning: perfect for many hours of walking in the city or on easy trails. My running shoes work pretty well for me in these moments.
- Sport sandals: the best option for walking in hot and humid places. For example, on a backpacking trip to Cuba.
BACKPACK FOR TREKKING
If you are going to take short trekking trips or excursions around the city, remember to take a smaller backpack.
THERMAL BOTTLE
We always prefer to use thermal bottles than plastic bottles so that the water stays at a good temperature and to protect the environment. We like those that have a standard bottle shape because they are easier to attach to backpacks.
ENERGY BARS
You can buy them at most destinations, but I wanted to add them to the list so you do not forget them. My favorites are Clif bars because they are not so cloying as the vast majority.
FOURTH QUESTION
ARE YOU GOING TO TAKE A ROAD TRIP?
PREPARE THE BACKPACK FOR A road trip
We love road trips, and two items can never be missed when packing. You can find them below:
CHARGER FOR THE CAR WITH 4 USB PORTS
Without a doubt, this was the best discovery in the preparation of our trip to Sicily. Before it was a pain to decide which item we should charge (camera, mobile, batteries).
AUX CABLE
Don’t have an Internet connection? No problem. Connect your Spotify list and ride.
FIFTH QUESTION
ARE YOU GOING TO TAKE A TRIP INTO THE WILD?
PREPARE A BACKPACK FOR AN ADVENTURE AND NATURE TRIP
These trips are our favorites. Feeling free and bound to nature require extra good preparation so that we are not missing anything when we are miles away from civilization. This is what you need to pack in a survival backpack.
CAMPINGAZ + JETBOIL
Your portable kitchen. You can reuse the Jetboil as many times as you want. Remember to buy the gas bottle once you reach your destination.
Emergency Food Supply
They are not used very often in Spain, but when we travel to countries like Canada or the United States where there is a bigger outdoor scene, they are very easy to find in any sports store. It is the best option to feed yourself while taking trips to the unknown.
camping cutlery
You can find them made of plastic or stainless steel. We used plastic in recent trips. The important thing is that they do not bulge or weigh too much.
LIGHTER
It is easy for non-smokers to forget about it. If you want to build a good campfire to warm up before the night, you will need a lighter unless you are Bear Grylls.
Sheath Knife
To cut bread, rope or defend yourself from any animal. A knife is essential in a nature trip full of adventures.
ROPE
We use it to hang clothes, but also to hang our backpacks in the trees if there’s food in them. In some places like Canada, it is very dangerous to leave backpacks with food at ground level when you are in the bear country.
Bar soap
If you want to keep your backpack light, you cannot take as many pairs of underwear as the days you will be traveling, especially if it is a long trip. A bar soap solves this problem. For travels with an indefinite timeline, 5 pairs of underwear are the maximum I would take with me. Every two or three days, you can wash your clothes with the soap, which is cheaper and faster than going to the laundry mat.
Flashlight
We love to photograph the Milky Way, so we usually do night hiking routes where we always carry a flashlight. If the route is a bit more complicated or we are going to cook at night, then we will use a headlamp to keep our hands free. In our case, we always carry both and use one or the other depending on what we are going to do.
THINGS YOU MUST INCLUDE IN YOUR BACKPACK FOR SPECIFIC DESTINATION
BEAR SPRAY
Essential if you visit National Parks of Canada and the United States where it is bear country
POWER ADAPTER
Check here if the same type of plug is used in your country of destination.
CRAMPONS
If you travel to a place where you can find icy hiking trails like Canada, Iceland or Norway.
HOW TO DISTRIBUTE WEIGHT WITHIN THE BACKPACK
Once we know everything we need inside the backpack, we should decide how to distribute the weight so that everything fits nicely.
The general rule is that heavier things should be closer to your back while the lighter towards the outer pockets.
My experience is that you have to pay attention to how often you will use something rather than just looking at the weight .
For example, since I use my toiletries every day, I always keep my toiletry bag in the top pocket along with my wallet, passport, etc. That way I will not have to spend a long time looking inside my backpack every time I want to brush my teeth or pay for something.
I also want my underwear to come on handy. That’s why I keep them in the big compartment but in the bottom part since it has a quick access.
However, items like crampons which I don’t use frequently, I leave them in the middle of the backpack so they are not in the way when I want to get something near the top or bottom of my pack.
AND YOU, HOW DO YOU Pack YOUR BACKPACK FOR A LONG-term TRAVEL?
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