What type of backpack should I get?
Before we search for the type of backpack, we must know how many types of backpacks are. These types of bags can be classified in different ways by their uses. Like school backpacks, military backpacks, hiking backpacks, travel backpacks, etc. When the purpose varies the backpack size material or the cost will also vary. Below we’ll discuss how many types of backpacks are and their usage:
Sizing of backpack:
The first basic thing to consider is sizing while discussing backpacks. Backpack carry capacity does matter. It affects its bulk and weight. Most larger backpacks have their internal structural frames.
How much can you fit in a backpack?
Backpack capacity is measured in Liters. Sometimes, we don’t have an idea of our gear in terms of volume.
Backpack small (S) less than 20 Liters. (Everyday carry, tech carry, day travel) for a small laptop, some books, an umbrella, cords cables, keys, a tablet, a wallet, or glasses.
Medium (M) 20-35 Liters. (Ideal for gym, school, and carry-on luggage) can easily load a
laptop, an extra pair of shoes, a set of clothes, an umbrella, cords, cables, keys, a jacket or sweater, a book, keys, a water bottle, or snacks.
Large (L) 40-80 Liters. (Hiking, backpacking, travel carry-on) 2-3 spare sets of clothes. A jacket, toiletries, umbrella, cords, cables, a larger laptop, snacks, some books, keys, wallet, etc.
Extra Large (XL) 80 + Liters. (Ideal for hiking, backpacking, and long trips) A jacket or sweater, multiple water bottles, snacks, large cables and cords, 3-4 sets of spare clothes, hiking gear, and equipment, towel, etc
Type of backpack:
Only capacity does not determine the best use of a backpack. Construction, design or material, and other aspects effects as well. Here we’ll define the different types of backpacks and their best usage.
Everyday backpack:
A simple backpack with one main compartment. The main purpose is to carry laptops or daily usage items. It is quite simple no ventilated panels or padded straps are installed in these backpacks.
Convertible Backpack:
It is just a tote bag with shoulder straps. This type of backpack is ideal for running projects and can be either a backpack or a regular shopping bag. These bags often come with pockets outside and one pocket inner side with a capacity of 15-35 Liters. These bags are very light in weight and can be foldable easily for next use.
Daypack:
It’s a typical backpack design. This type of backpack may not have zipper closures or compartments or any interior organization. Maximum capacity is 20-40 Liters and is often quite fashionable. Daypack bags are not hard to find, they come in different colors and materials are both comfortable, and improve your personality.
Mini Backpack:
This backpack is very small and cute. The mini type of backpack is also called journeys mini backpack or Macy’s mini backpack. Its capacity is 1 liter and you cannot carry more than 5 liters. You can hold a smartphone, headphones, a wallet, or maybe a book only.
Drawstring Backpack:
These extremely light backpacks might have a single zipper pocket on the front and look like a pouch with a drawstring that acts as shoulder straps. These backpacks can hold only 5-10 L but are fairly uncomfortable when getting heavy because the drawstring can cut your shoulders. However suitable for running errands and great for taking extra pair of clothes to the gym.
School backpack:
These backpacks are for school-going students to carry books. School backpacks have many sizes, and students from elementary class to high school class can use them according to their requirements. School backpacks further have many types:
Classic backpack:
These backpacks have usually two compartments first one is larger and the second smaller. Usually, a small pocket to organize small gadgets like pencils, sharpeners or erasers, etc. Due to the common usage of minimalist school backpacks, many companies are making and selling them.
Laptop backpack:
In the past twenty years, the usage of laptops is increasing in our daily life. To carry the laptop to school or anywhere it is necessary a strong and safe backpack for your laptop. Laptop backpacks have different compartments to carry small things like paper, file covers or chargers,s, etc. For the business traveler, a laptop backpack is also suitable because of a special sleeve to hold & protect the laptop.
Tote backpack:
Tote backpack is the perfect solution to carry the necessary thing in our busy lifestyle. These backpacks are rectangular in shape and expandable with a lot of compartments to manage things. Most backpacks have two handles to hold so are easily convertible to handbags.
Rolling backpack:
This type of backpack is suitable for students who have a lot of books to carry. Rolling backpacks have not only wheels but also shoulder straps, you can use them as a regular backpack with lots of pockets.
If you are not comfortable wearing the backpack, a rolling backpack system is available to give your back a rest.
Satchel backpack:
Often made of leather to protect things from rain or water. It has a large flap to cover the whole bag from the top to protect the items inside. Satchel backpacks are suitable for all ages students and genders.
Clear school backpack:
From a security point of view, a clear school backpack is the best option for students and schools to supervise belonging and reduce the potentially harmful stuff brought by students. These bags are made of clear plastic and all the things inside the backpack can be seen without opening the backpack.
Sling school backpack:
Sling school backpack has a single strap. This is up to you, can wear the backpack across your back or just in front of your body. This type of backpack is handier than a regular backpack. These backpacks come in different sizes, and as compared to regular backpacks sling backpacks have less space. But are more practical to manage the smaller things than others.
Sports backpacks:
Sports backpacks are designed to keep adventure in mind. The rugged and lightweight material is used to make these backpacks with a lot of organizational features and facilities to handle your things. This type of backpack can be the best source of branding, which could be a specific team or a company.
Backpacks for Hiking:
Frameless backpack:
Professional hikers carry many gears with them. The frameless type of backpack may be the best option for some hikers due to its lighter weight and comfortable for the back. Hikers can easily carry the load. Hikers also called frameless backpacks the backpack with lots of storage.
Internal-frame backpack:
The article of this type of backpack is very ideal for the human body. There is a space between the frame and the back of the human which can offer ventilation between the body and backpack to keep cool the shoulder comfortable. Although, internal-frame backpacks have more handling capacity the load than frameless backpacks, are a bit more expensive than frameless backpacks.
Hydration backpack:
The main purpose of a hydration backpack is to provide an extra feature of a water reservoir. You can save two large sizes of bottle space and also the risk of leakage of water too.
You can choose your hydration pack capacity according to your need. For those who do regular exercise is worthwhile to own hydration backpacks.
Waterproof backpack:
During hiking, weather conditions can be changed into rainy or wet. To keep your items dry and waterproof, this type of backpack is a blessing if you have one. The waterproof material is strong enough and is suitable for outdoor adventure, especially near the river.
Small hiking backpack:
A great choice for a shorter hiking trip is a small hiking backpack. You can use a lighter-weight small hiking backpack that can easily carry 10 pounds of gear without a frame. These small hiking backpacks are simple in design and lower in price than large backpacks and are really easy to use too.
Camera backpack:
To hold expensive camera fragile equipment, camera backpacks are sturdy, padded, and have internal and external pockets.
If you love to take photos, you must have all the necessary gear for the camera with you safely. Camera bags are mandatory for you.
This type of backpack makes your hands free without carrying your bag all the time with you. Many camera-backpack have an anti-theft feature with hidden zipper pulls. This camera backpack comes with a 20-30 L to 50-60 L setup. You can choose according to your need and requirement.
Fishing backpack:
This type of backpack is made of waterproof material. It has a lot of pockets to organize the fishing gear. Some fishing backpacks come with rain covers to protect yourself from rain. It comes with a 20-30 L capacity usually. But you can find larger ones at 80L+.
Drone backpack:
Like camera backpacks, drone backpacks are designed to carry delicate & expensive equipment. These are padded inside and outside for shock resistance. These backpacks come with about 20-30 L capacity or 50-60 L capacity for multi-drone setups.
Travel backpack:
This type of backpack is designed for travelers’ necessities. And keep airport travel in mind. They leave your hands free while you walking in the airport. Due to its soft-sided and flexibility are easier to staw under the seat or an overhead compartment.
Carry-on backpack:
A carry-on backpack usually has one or two compartments. This is the best type of backpack with lots of pockets to organize things. These bags are less tall than 22 inches with a capacity range of 20-40 Liters.
Military Backpacks Types:
Expandable tactical backpacks:
Some military backpacks have the ability to expand the size of the backpack when the luggage is more. If you have less luggage you can compress its size according to your gear quickly.
Small tactical rucksack:
For outdoor activities, the small tactical rucksack is the best option for your necessary stuff. During hunting small size of the rucksack provide you ease in moving forward.
Tactical sling backpack:
Sometimes basic tactical backpacks are too large for activity. At that time tactical sling backpack is more suitable for you. These bags are completely settled on your body and will not affect you while running or walking.
ALICE field pack:
The most suitable backpack is the ALICE field pack for your all-purpose adventure. That represents all-purpose lightweight individual carrying equipment which was adopted US army. Currently, many people can use the ALICE field pack due to its military pack features, massive capacity, and durability.
Duffel backpack:
A duffle backpack is just like a duffle bag. The only difference that makes it a backpack is the additional straps that let you wear it like a backpack. Duffel backpacks are large in size and typically made of leather or canvas. They are sturdy and strong and can last for many years.
Originally, duffel backpacks were used by the military but are now popular for outdoor adventures and travels.
They come in various sizes 30-120 L and more. This makes them a great choice for travel and other activities. These backpacks are very easy to carry for a simple design. Not suitable for active travel like backpacking or hiking.