Travel backpacks are loyal companions for travelers and climbers. It is impossible to imagine life in difficult conditions without them. A backpack for a tourist becomes a repository of provisions, warm clothes, livelihoods in nature.
The editorial staff of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" has prepared a rating of the best travel backpacks in 2020.
Content
- 1 Backpack classification
- 2 Ranking of the best travel backpacks
- 2.1 Backpack ECOS THAPA 45
- 2.2 Backpack NOVA TOUR Alpha 65 v2
- 2.3 Backpack NOVA TOUR Vitim 80 v2
- 2.4 Backpack WENGER Narrow Hiking Pack 22
- 2.5 Backpack ECOS MONTANA 65
- 2.6 Backpack ECOS MONTANA 85
- 2.7 Backpack ECOS MONTANA 90
- 2.8 Backpack PRIVAL Hiking 35
- 2.9 Deuter AC Lite 18 backpack
- 2.10 Pinguin Explorer 100 backpack
- 2.11 comparison table
- 3 Expedition Backpacks
Backpack classification
Backpacks began to be popular in the 18th - 19th century. Their predecessor was the usual army knapsack and duffel bag. They were improved in the middle of the 20th century by the climber Vitaly Abalakov to hiking backpacks. They were popular with tourists, climbers and athletes. At the end of the 20th century, the tourist backpack, which was named after its creator "abalak", users began to improve on their own. This is how the first suspension strap appeared in the design. The advent of synthetic fabrics, which made the backpacks durable and lightweight, also contributed to the design and functionality. At the moment, the design of the backpack depends on many factors.
Tourist backpacks are classified according to various criteria, the main ones are:
- by design;
- by appointment;
- by capacity.
Design
By design, backpacks are divided into soft (frameless or ultralight), rigid (easel or backpacks, with an external frame) and semi-rigid (anatomical or backpacks, with an internal frame).
Soft
The frameless design is intended more for urban use or for short hikes, holds 50-60 liters and has a simplified suspension system. The appearance resembles a bag with a certain number of pockets. As a rule, it requires a special approach to the packing of things.
Advantages:
- relatively budget option;
- can be folded like a regular bag;
- minimum weight.
Disadvantages:
- requires special styling, because it does not hold its shape;
- uncomfortable distribution of the load between the straps and the suspension belt, with a large weight, it is inconvenient;
- there is no assortment of choice of volumetric models.
Hard
They have a rigid structure and are made for hiking and mountaineering. The suspension system is made of aluminum, less often titanium. They have a waist strap that lightens the load on the back. The capacity of these backpacks reaches 80 - 100 liters. Special packing of things is not required. Most often it has an air gap that provides back ventilation.
They are most often used on expeditions.
Advantages:
- does not require special styling;
- roomy;
- load distribution.
Disadvantages:
- backpacks with such a design, if a tourist falls, can injure him;
- heavy even without luggage.
Semi-rigid
There are all shapes and sizes. Sometimes, they are designed for more than 140 liters. It uses durable synthetic fabric and soft harness.
But the inner frame, which serves as the base of such a backpack, is made of solid material (duralumin - 2-3 mm., Polyethylene foam - 15-20 mm.)
The downside of the design is a snug fit on the back of the wearer, which can cause some inconvenience. Therefore, most are equipped with a ventilated system - liners with air channels.
Advantages:
- optimal load distribution;
- a wide range of models;
- does not require special styling;
- practical.
Disadvantages:
- weight is more than soft;
- not compact;
- the price is quite high.
Appointment
- tourist - for long trips, it fits all the necessary equipment;
- mountaineering - for climbing mountains;
- cycling backpacks - for cycling;
- military - optimal during the period of hostilities, accommodates all the necessary equipment, facilitates difficult transitions;
- freeriding - for descents on snowy slopes, a functional sports backpack, which is necessary in difficult conditions.
- urban - backpacks with an average capacity, depending on the purpose, are divided into professional, women's (children's), educational. It is too shallow and impractical for difficult hikes and expeditions, but for short walks it will do just fine.
Capacity
Backpack capacity is one of the important criteria for choosing a travel companion.
By capacity, they are divided into:
- Expeditionary (up to 150 liters);
- Tourist (40 - 70 liters);
- Urban (up to 40 liters).
How to choose the best backpack
In order not to be mistaken with the choice, you need to focus on some important things:
Volume
The volume of the model should come from the inventory that will be placed there.
Choosing a small backpack - the tourist limits himself to the set of inventory that may come in handy. An overly large backpack will be more expensive and heavier.
- 20 - 35 liters - the best choice for short hikes. You can put the essentials in it: a first aid kit, a raincoat, some food and items of clothing. They can also be used in city mode.
- 35 - 50 liters. Popular with freeriders and climbers. They are designed for hikes of 1 - 3 days.
- 50 - 100 liters. Hiking backpacks of medium volume. They can accommodate everything from warm clothes to sleeping bags and tents. Designed for hikes up to 20 days.
- 100 - 150 liters - expedition backpacks. Perfect for those who are going to travel for a long time. They can become faithful companions for many months. Spacious, have many pockets and fasteners for all occasions. Also equipped with valves and bulkhead in the main compartment.
Design
Models of tourist backpacks differ in the design of the back.
There are 3 options for this design:
- standard;
- orthopedic;
- easel.
The standard backrest is the most affordable and budgetary option; it is a construction of 2 metal rods with bends.
An orthopedic back is a design that relieves stress from the back, it is more complex and more expensive.
The easel back is an old and rare design version, which consists of a frame and a bag attached to it.
Suspension system
A construction that attaches to the body. Consists of shoulder straps and a weight belt that transfers the load from the back to the hips. When choosing such a design, you need to pay attention to the material, width, length and distance between the straps. Some backpacks have a chest strap that prevents the shoulder straps from slipping.
Suspension system types:
- X-VAR TORSO Carry System;
- TCS TORSO Carry System;
- V-VAR Carry System;
- V-VAR TORSO Carry System;
- FRAME VAR Carry System;
- CR Carry System;
- VERTI COOL Carry System;
- 3D EVS Carry System;
- AVS Carry System;
- AIR DIRECTOR Carry System;
- PERFORATE Carry System.
Weight
The optimal weight of a travel backpack should be 2 - 2.5 kg. He can play a vital role. But some models benefit from convenience and quality, despite the impressive weight.
Fittings
Hinges, slings and bindings and locks must be reliable and easy to use.
Pockets and flaps
Particularly noteworthy is the presence of the upper retainer (valve), which protects against moisture.
Compression straps can adjust volume and serve to secure equipment, just like loops.
Additional pockets are a functional element that makes it easier to handle small items.
What you need to know before buying
Before you go for the desired purchase, you need to prepare. It is advisable to talk to experienced tourists and read information. For the choice to take a minimum of time, you need to navigate at least basic information: dimensions, volume, fabric, harness, manufacturer, if possible. To navigate the correct size, you need to measure the length of your torso. To do this, you need to take a centimeter, and measure the distance between the seventh cervical vertebra and the ilium.
Backpack models can be presented in several sizes or have an adjustable harness.
Many well-known manufacturers produce several sizes in the context of one model.
Common dimensional grid:
| The size | Torso length, cm |
|---|---|
| XS, extra small | up to 40 |
| S, small | 40 - 45 |
| M, Medium / Regular | 45 - 50 |
| L, Large / Tall | from 50 |
Many lines provide for women's backpack models. They differ in volume and suspension system. The shoulder straps are closer and the waist belt is designed for more hips.
Material
There are 3 popular types of fabric from which walk-through backpacks are made:
- Cordura (cordura);
- Oxford;
- Polyester (polyester).
Cordura is a material that was invented for the needs of the army. It is a dense and durable fabric, waterproof, and with the addition of cotton, resistant to tears.
Advantages:
- water-repellent;
- wide range of applications;
- durable.
Disadvantages:
- high price;
- heavy;
- it becomes tough in the cold;
- locks, zippers and seams allow water to pass through.
Oxford is a thin and lightweight fabric that rivals Cordura in strength.
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- does not burn in fire, but melts;
- waterproof;
- heat-resistant (from - 50 ° to + 110 °);
- easy.
Disadvantages:
- builds up static voltage;
- changes color after prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Polyester is a budget and lightweight material. Sometimes it is treated with polyvinyl chloride for strength and moisture resistance.
Advantages:
- low price;
- heat resistant;
- does not deform.
Disadvantages:
- does not withstand heavy loads;
- does not protect from moisture.
Fittings
The locks and buckles of the adjusting belts must be of high quality and reliable.
The most reliable designs of such buckles are Samosbros and Fasteks. They are quite robust with a quick release system.
Errors when choosing a tourist backpack
- Structural structure and capacity (volume) were chosen incorrectly;
- Lack of belts located in the belt and chest of the tourist;
- Poor quality fittings;
- Impractical and uncomfortable shoulder straps;
- The minimum number of compartments, storage systems, pockets.
Ranking of the best travel backpacks
Backpack ECOS THAPA 45
Anatomical functional backpack. The volume is 45 liters. The upper section is adjustable, which adds 15% of its capacity. Pockets: side and front. The fastening system consists of 2 anatomical shoulder straps, a chest strap, a waist belt (PULL FORWARD).
Made from 300D polyester that is built to withstand all weather conditions.
Dimensions: 30x22x65 cm, weight - 1.28 kg.
Price - 5700 rubles.
Advantages:
- quality;
- affordable price;
- hard back;
- back ventilation;
- many mounts;
- there is a compartment for the drinking system.
Disadvantages:
- without a separate compartment, the volume is less;
- narrow;
- slings are installed on the side pockets instead of elastic bands;
- the bottom is not reinforced;
- no rain cover;
- plastic latches in front.
Backpack NOVA TOUR Alpha 65 v2
Anatomically designed backpack, ideal for trekking, with a capacity of 65 liters, weighing 2.35 kg. Dimensions: 80x45x32 cm. Suspension system: 2 straps, chest strap and waist belt with Air Mesh. There are many detachable pockets. Light reflectors make the hike safe. Also equipped with mounts for additional equipment. Fabric - Poly Oxford 600D PU RipStop.
Price: 6690 rub.
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- quality;
- back ventilation;
- spacious side pockets;
- there is a sealed cover.
Disadvantages:
- the harness is designed for large people.
Backpack NOVA TOUR Vitim 80 v2
Trekking soft backpack 80 liters.The harness consists of 2 straps, a chest strap and a harness. Equipped with an ice ax compartment. There are front and side pockets. Weight - 1.19 kg. Dimensions: 80x37x22 cm.
Price: 3480 rub.
Advantages:
- removable valve;
- interesting design;
- lasting;
- convenient adjustment of the harness.
- spacious.
- quality.
Disadvantages:
- no stiffener.
Backpack WENGER Narrow Hiking Pack 22
Anatomical travel backpack 22 liters. Weighing 0.84 kg. Suspension system: 2 straps, chest and side ties, waist belt. There are front, side pockets, and an inner organizer pocket for small items.
Dimensions: 18x23x47 cm. Soft, material - polyester.
Price: 4750 rub.
Advantages:
- convenient mounting system;
- spacious;
- easy;
- back ventilation.
Disadvantages:
- no rain cover;
- small and not very functional pockets;
- fragile.
Backpack ECOS MONTANA 65
Trekking soft backpack, designed for 65 liters, weighing 2.18 kg. Dimensions: 20x39x77 cm. Suspension system: 2 shoulder straps, chest strap, waist belt. There is a top flap, side and bottom entry, front and side pockets.
Price: 7990 rub.
Advantages:
- lightweight headset;
- functional and large pockets;
- spacious;
- affordable price;
- mount for equipment;
- drinking water withdrawal.
Disadvantages:
- the declared volume is too high;
- no sealed cover;
- soft.
Backpack ECOS MONTANA 85
Travel backpack, unisex. Weight - 2.5 kg, volume - 85 liters, dimensions: 23x41x85cm. Equipped with top flap, adjustable flap, side and bottom entrances, pockets.
Price: 7990 rub.
Advantages:
- many pockets;
- several branches;
- lasting;
- spacious;
- orthopedic back;
- waterproof fabric;
- withdrawal of the drinking system;
- mount for equipment.
Disadvantages:
- volume is less than stated;
- short shoulder straps.
Backpack ECOS MONTANA 90
Anatomical backpack with a volume of 90 liters.
Harness system: 2 shoulder straps, hip belt, chest and side straps. Weight - 2.6 kg. Dimensions: 30x38x80.
Price: 9970 rub.
Advantages:
- quality;
- mount for equipment;
- side entrance;
- lasting;
- adjustable valve.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Backpack PRIVAL Hiking 35
Travel soft backpack 35 liters. There are only 2 straps from the harness. There is a top valve. Front, top and side pockets. Weight - 700 g., Dimensions: 20x28x54 cm. Fabric - Poly Oxford 600D PU RipStop.
Price: 2140 RUB.
Advantages:
- lasting;
- spacious.
Disadvantages:
- no mounts for equipment;
- no sealed cover.
Deuter AC Lite 18 backpack
Anatomical trekking backpack. Volume - 18 liters, weight - 0.9 kg, dimensions: 19x30x53cm. Equipped with a chest strap, a waist belt and two shoulder straps. There are side and top pockets.
Price: 3890 rub.
Advantages:
- reflective elements;
- withdrawal of the drinking system;
- spacious;
- rain cover.
Disadvantages:
- not identified.
Pinguin Explorer 100 backpack
Anatomical travel backpack. Weight - 2.6 kg., Volume - 100 liters. Dimensions: 33x38x93 cm. Multifunctional. There is an adjustable top valve. Pockets: top, side. There is a partition in the main compartment.
Price: 11200 rub.
Advantages:
- mount for equipment;
- withdrawal of the drinking system;
- comfortable back;
- a large number of fasteners and ties.
- lasting;
- rain cover.
Disadvantages:
- not very comfortable belt;
- high price.
comparison table
| Backpack | Volume, l. | Weight, kg. | price, rub. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backpack ECOS THAPA 45 | 45 | 1,28 | 5700 |
| Backpack NOVA TOUR Alpha 65 v2 | 65 | 2,35 | 6690 |
| Backpack NOVA TOUR Vitim 80 v2 | 80 | 1,19 | 3480 |
| Backpack WENGER Narrow Hiking Pack 22 | 22 | 0,84 | 4750 |
| Backpack ECOS MONTANA 65 | 65 | 2,18 | 7990 |
| Backpack ECOS MONTANA 85 | 85 | 2,5 | 7990 |
| Backpack ECOS MONTANA 90 | 90 | 2,6 | 9970 |
| Backpack PRIVAL Hiking 35 | 35 | 0,7 | 2140 |
| Deuter AC Lite 18 backpack | 18 | 0,9 | 3890 |
| Pinguin Explorer 100 backpack | 100 | 2,6 | 11200 |
Expedition Backpacks
Backpack NOVA TOUR Tibet 100 v2
Price: 9480 rub.
Anatomical expedition backpack. With a volume of 110 liters. Dimensions: 30x47x105 cm.Weight - 2.7 kg.
The design provides for a partition in the main compartment. Equipped with a rain cover. The harness (ABS 2) consists of 2 shoulder straps, chest and side braces, and a waist belt. Fabric - Poly Oxford Ripstop.
Advantages:
- spacious;
- reflective edging;
- comfortable shoulder straps;
- many pockets.
Disadvantages:
- no back ventilation;
- empty valve is not fixed.
Backpack NOVA TOUR Yukon 95 v2
Price: 7980 rub.
Expedition backpack, anatomical. The volume is 95 liters. Dimensions 30x32x100 cm.Weight: 2.3 kg. Nifco fittings. There is a rain cover, an attachment for equipment. Harness system: 2 straps, chest, side ties, harness.
Advantages:
- waterproof fabric;
- quality;
- easy.
Disadvantages:
- small side pockets.
Backpack NOVA TOUR Abakan 130
Price: 9980 rub.
Anatomical expeditionary backpack with a volume of 130 liters.
It has a chest and side tie, waist belt and 2 shoulder straps. Weight - 2.7 kg. Dimensions 31x32x94 cm. The design provides back ventilation.
Advantages:
- high-quality material and accessories;
- spacious;
- side pockets are unreliable.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Backpack HUNTER NOVA TOUR Bear 100
Price: 2760 rub.
Expedition soft backpack 100 liters. The harness consists of 2 straps, a harness and a side tie. Weight: 1.3 kg. Dimensions: 29x32x95 cm.
Advantages:
- quality;
- waterproof fabric;
- the frame does not allow the back to get tired;
- spacious.
Disadvantages:
- the harness is designed for large people.
| Backpack | Volume, l. | Weight, kg. | Price, rub |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOVA TOUR Tibet 100 v2 | 110 | 2,7 | 9480 |
| NOVA TOUR Yukon 95 v2 | 95 | 2,3 | 7980 |
| NOVA TOUR Abakan 130 | 130 | 2,7 | 9980 |
| HUNTER NOVA TOUR Bear 100 | 100 | 1,3 | 2760 |
A backpack for hiking enthusiasts is an irreplaceable thing, the choice of which is important to approach carefully, evaluating all the criteria. If you have experience using the described or other tourist backpacks, write about it in the comments.
