Different Uses of Back Packs

When you look at the many back packs that are available, you need to know the differences in types of these packs in order to get the right back pack for your needs. A travel pack is great for using as a carry on piece of luggage or for serving as a small suitcase if you need to carry the pack with you if you want to backpack on a short trip. Each pack features a harness system, a pack that you can remove for using during the day as well as a protective cover and a shoulder sling. Such a backpack usually has two zippered compartments for storing your clothing, food and valuables such as money and passports.

If you are planning a hiking expedition such as backpacking Europe, the best type of backpack to use is the top loading bag with a storm collar that prevents water from getting at the items inside. Such a pack has shoulder straps, but no handles like you would find on a suitcase type pack. This kind of backpack is tapered so that you have more freedom to use your arms and shoulders while hiking. These expedition backpack bags have two compartments with a zippered or draw string closure and a top lid that extends to give you more carrying capacity. You can usually carry between 75 to 95 litres in such a pack and the harness system of the backpack is fully adjustable.

If you don't intend to backpack for a long period of time, perhaps a weekend, then you will only need to have a smaller backpack. This type of pack is smaller with storage space for what you would need for only 3 or 4 days. Even so, when you purchase a smaller pack or bag, you still need to make sure that the shoulder straps are comfortable with a high density polyethylene frame to prevent injuries to your back and shoulders.