Our Best Hiking Backpack
A universally recognised bag, popular from soldiers to students, a back pack is a bag often used for carrying heavy loads due to it ability to distribute weight across the back. Due to this feature, these bags are often popular with hikers and have been adapted multiple times, to hold specialised items such as skateboards and some high end bags even have solar paneling!
Of course, selecting the correct bag will depend on your specific requirements- buying a tropical survival bag for your child in high school would be considered excessive to say the least! A good rule of thumb when purchasing an appropriate bag is to look for the following key features, (while considering the primary use of the bag)- its features, fit, volume, durability, weight when being carried and of course, the price.
You will be glad to know that there are three different types of backpack, each designed with a different purpose for usage which can help you make an informed decision.
External frame pack- primarily used for hiking, as the name suggests, these bags have their structural frame on the outside and are the oldest form of the modern day bag. The external frame is often made of a hardy but lightweight metal such as aluminium that is reinforced with plastic. If you are looking for a bag to take on a hike with an even trail, these bags are cheaper than their internally framed cousin and often have better ventilation. They have also been praised for being able to carry heavier loads (over 20 kg) and for their durability. However, such a design has been critiqued by some hikers as it is heavy and the frame is prone to damage, which can lead to the structure of the bag becoming unstable and even breaking. If you choose a bag with an external frame, try to ensure it has a hip belt to keep it closer to the body, as this will avoid any damage it may receive.
Internal frame pack- these are the most common type of pack sold. These packs generally have a closer body fit that the external famed packs, thus creating more stability. They also often have thicker shoulder strapping to prevent friction injury along with having a larger internal storage space than the other models. Regardless of its usage, this prevents the user having to attach items to the outside of the bag, which in a situation such as a hike, reduces snagging or loss of important items. But, unlike the external frame pack, these bags have lower levels of ventilation, so precautions should be taken when transporting food products to reduce spoilage.
Frameless packs- in essence, these are simply sacks with straps! Don’t be fooled by the simplicity however, this version have higher levels of comfort for the user and are often more economically friendly. They are also lighter, so can be used easily by children and can pack lighter loads, which during a hike with kids, takes some of the literal weight off of your back! Be aware not to pack too much into them, as they can become extremely uncomfortable if used to carry heavy loads for long periods and often have minimal support. This bag has the largest range of designs available, so remember the key features mentioned earlier when choosing the one you want.
