Do you really need to think too much before buying a backpack

Summer is almost over, and despite your children’s protests, you need to start shopping for their school essentials, with their backpacks being the most important. Maybe the holidays are approaching and you may be about to begin a wonderful adventure and go on a long hike in Nepal, and choosing the right backpack becomes essential as it will be your companion and best friend on the road. Or perhaps, you are looking for a backpack for daily use or for your laptop or items you need to bring with you on a daily basis.

Whatever your reason for buying one, do you really need to think so much before buying a new backpack? Well, not all backpacks are created equal. They come in several sizes, materials, as well as with different options and purposes. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to do some research before buying one. 

In order to pick the most suitable backpack for you, you should always try to keep the following things in mind: 

Use 

Whether you are a student or a traveller, there are different backpacks which are made for different purposes; you have to think carefully about what you are going to use it for. There are actually many different types of backpacks available on the market today; here are some of the most common types:

• Hiking backpack: A hiking backpack is usually larger than the other types because it has to carry all of the hiker’s gear and trip essentials. A hiking backpack will likely have several compartments and safety features that you wouldn’t normally find in other types. 
• Student backpack: Students or school backpacks come in different shapes, sizes, and brands, according to the different ages. They are tailored to meet the use of young children in kindergarten through to adults in college. If you are amid picking the best backpack option for your kid or yourself, make sure you read about these backpacks’ brands and features online and go through the different reviews. Picking the right backpack is critical for school goers; so always make sure to go for a trusted brand with several positive online reviews.  
• Laptop backpack: A laptop backpack features a compartment or pocket for your laptop in order to safely store it and protect it from damage. However, laptop bags also have room to store different items as well. 

Volume

A backpack’s volume is how much space there is in the backpack, measured in litres or sometimes, less frequently, cubic inches. Which volume is best for you? Well, this depends on your use, what you want to carry inside it, and whether you are a minimalist or a hoarder. Generally, a volume of 15-30 litres will be suitable as a student bag or for a day hike. But you will need a 60+ litre bag if you are going on an extended trip. 

Fit 

Whichever type of backpack you choose, it needs to match your torso length (the length from the hips to the base of the neck). In order to choose a perfect fit for you, you have to make sure that the distance to the hip belt from the shoulder strap accommodates your torso length. Moreover, you should ensure that the majority of a backpack’s weight, 80 % or more, should be supported by your hips and not your back or shoulders. 

Material

Durable materials are considered one of the most important things to look for in a backpack. If you are going to be spending money, better spend it on a backpack that will last.  Whether you need it for your hiking trips or daily school or college use, you will need a material that withstands those uses and conditions. 

Features 

To choose the right backpack for you, you should have a clear idea of what features you are looking for. Do you want to keep it simple or are you looking for a backpack with multiple features? These features will include frame types, shoulder and hip padding, anti-theft features, laptop compartment, hydration reservoir, sleeping bag compartment, etc. 

Price 

How much are you willing to pay for the backpack? You can always find a high-quality backpack without breaking the bank. However, some inexpensive backpacks will deteriorate quickly. 

Before you rush and purchase the next backpack you find at the nearest store, make sure you go over these tips. After all, you don’t want to invest in a backpack that will tear after its first use or one that can cause injuries to your back or shoulders. With the right research and knowledge, you’ll be able to choose the perfect backpack for you.

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