Travel backpacks are the perfect option for quick getaways when you don’t want to lug around a ton of stuff. Whether you’re hopping on a budget flight or heading out for a weekend adventure at the beach or mountains, backpacks are the best choice to carry your essentials and enjoy the freedom of travelling without the hassle of suitcases. It encourages you to focus on what truly matters, like a few versatile clothing items for different outfits, a toiletry bag, a phone charger, and your wallet. A travel backpack can truly transform the way you explore the world, and here’s why.

Who doesn’t love a spontaneous weekend getaway? The requirements for weekend adventurers differ from those of international tourists. A carry-on bag should be small enough to pass through TSA with ease but spacious enough to accommodate everything you need for a 3-4-day trip. Many of these bags are designed to hold a few days' worth of clothing and include convenient tech pockets, such as a laptop sleeve or charging options.  

If you're planning an overseas adventure, a rolling suitcase simply won't do. For long-term international travellers, many people buy backpacks. If your travels take you through regions like South America, Europe, or Asia, choosing a travel-specific backpack over a standard backpacking pack is a wise decision. Traditional backpacking packs can be cumbersome to access and often lack the features that facilitate smoother air travel.  

Road trips are all about the experience, whether you're visiting breathtaking natural landscapes or vibrant cities, so the right bag can vary based on your destination. Since you'll be spending a lot of time in the car, you won’t require all the features of travel packs, but having ample space and easy access is still essential.  

Travelling can be quite challenging, and choosing an uncomfortable bag only makes it harder. Whether you're moving between cities or exploring a new place, you might end up walking more than you anticipated to get to the nearest bus stop or your accommodation. This is why a comfortable pack is essential. If you're carrying a heavy load or engaging in outdoor activities that require a lot of gear, it's wise to invest in a bag with a solid frame and a hip belt for better support.

•    Internal frame - These are concealed within the back panel. These packs are designed to provide stability for hikers navigating uneven and challenging terrains, utilizing various load-support technologies that help distribute the weight to the hips of the wearer.

•    External-frame - In contrast, external-frame packs showcase their supportive structure on the outside, typically made of aluminium. This design allows for better handling heavy or awkward loads, such as oversized tents or inflatable kayaks. Additionally, the external-frame provides excellent ventilation and numerous options for organizing gear.

•    Frameless - If you prefer to hike quickly and lightly, frameless packs or climbing packs with removable frames are popular choices. However, it's important to note that these packs can become quite uncomfortable when carrying heavier loads.

Some models come with a suspended mesh back panel designed to alleviate the discomfort of a sweaty back, a common issue with internal frame packs that sit directly against your body. This design, known as "tension-mesh suspension," resembles a trampoline, allowing the frame-supported rucksack to sit a few centimetres away from your back, which rests against a highly breathable mesh. Other models may include ventilation channels ("chimneys") in the back panel to address the same problem.

Top-loading openings are quite common. Since items located at the bottom and sides can be difficult to reach, savvy packers often place overnight gear in those areas and keep essentials for hiking or daily use closer to the top. However, some packs offer panel access, allowing you to unzip the main compartment without having to unload from the top. Just remember that these extra features can add both weight and cost.

Preferences for pockets can vary widely; some people enjoy having many, while others favour a more minimalist approach. When assessing pockets, think about their size and placement. For example, elasticized side pockets remain flat when not in use but can expand to hold items like water bottles or tent poles. They are typically accessible even while wearing the pack. Hipbelt pockets are perfect for small essentials you might need on the trail, such as a phone, snacks, lip balm, or sunscreen.

Shovel pockets, which are flaps stitched onto the front of the pack with buckle closure, were originally designed for snow shovels but are now commonly found on many three-season packs, serving as convenient spots for a map, jacket, or other lightweight items. The top lid pocket, sometimes referred to as the pack's "brain," is also a matter of personal choice. Some users prefer a single compartment for items like sunglasses and a headlamp, while others like a top lid with multiple sections for better organization.