How to choose a backpack?
Wondering what kind of backpack to buy? To make the right choice, you should first determine your needs. In what situations will you use the backpack most often? Do you need a model for school, work, university? Or are you looking for a tactical backpack or a trekking backpack that will work well in the mountains?
The number of backpacks available in stores is huge. Not surprisingly, sometimes we don't know what kind of backpack to choose. The first step you should take before buying a new model is to clarify your expectations. By doing so, you will be able to significantly narrow down your search circle, which will help you make the right choice.
How to choose a backpack?
There are many types of backpacks. They can differ in construction, capacity or purpose, among other things. Urban and school backpacks, which are widely available in stores, are very popular. More specialized stores also offer advanced trekking, hiking and tactical and military models.
Military and tactical backpacks
Where to buy a military backpack? Be sure to check out our offer tactical and military backpacks is an important part of MILITARY.PL assortment, so you will find a wide selection of such models. Military backpacks are characterized primarily by very high durability. They are manufactured from durable materials, for example, resistant Cordura. For this reason, military backpacks are great for difficult terrain, where it is easy to damage equipment.
Another characteristic of military backpacks is the presence of the MOLLE system. In classic backpacks, we use trousers and compression straps to carry gear outside. Military backpack has additionally sewn in horizontal straps of MOLLE system, thanks to which you can easily attach to it equipment compatible with this system, such as additional pockets or first aid kit.
Military backpacks also often have velcro panels, or Velcro, to which you can attach patches personalizing the look of the backpack. MILITARY.PL offers plenty of such emblems, e.g. national flags or Morale Patches.
Urban backpack
Urban backpack as a rule, this is a small one-day model. It allows you to comfortably carry the most necessary things - to work, to school. You can stow heavy books, documents, food or rainwear in it. In smaller pockets with an organizer you can carry writing utensils or hide your wallet, keys or other small items. Many city backpacks also have dedicated pockets that allow you to carry your laptop safely.
The capacity of a city backpack is worth choosing according to your needs, that is, so that you can fit all the things you most often carry with you around town. Many city models are 20 liter backpack or slightly smaller or larger. If you often carry documents with you, choose an A4 backpack, which will allow you to pack documents of this size into it without bending them.
Trekking and hiking backpacks
A trekking backpack is an elaborate model equipped with a comfortable carrying system and the ability to organize luggage efficiently. Trekking models are produced in various capacities - from very small 10 liter backpacks to the largest ones with a capacity of up to 90 liters. Depending on the chosen size, trekking backpacks can be used both on short mountain treks and on long multi-day or even multi-week treks. Decide then on expedition backpack.
The larger the hiking backpack, the more important the carrying system becomes. The largest models that allow you to carry tens of kilograms of gear have very wide hip belts, so that most of the weight of the backpack rests on your hips, rather than on your shoulders. Also useful in large models are trousers and compression straps, so you can attach large items such as a carrimata or tent to the outside of the backpack.
In smaller backpacks, the main compartment is usually closed with a zipper. On the other hand, larger models usually have a chimney and a flap that closes with snaps. The chimney allows you to increase the capacity of the backpack.
A useful feature, which is often encountered in hiking backpacks, is compatibility with a hydration system. A special place for a water reservoir and the possibility of leading out the tube allows convenient hydration without the need to take off the backpack. The tube is most often led out in such a way that we can attach it to the shoulder of the backpack and have it directly at the mouth.
Sports backpacks
Sports backpacks are a very wide group of backpacks, which we can include, among others, running or cycling models. In the case of this type of backpacks, durability usually comes to the background, and lightness and comfort of use become more important than it.
A sports backpack is usually a model with a relatively small capacity. For example, running models are usually backpacks of 15 liters or smaller. They are lightweight and allow you to take the most necessary things, including water in a reservoir. They are also characterized by a special design of the carrying system, thanks to which the backpack fits tightly to the back. Thanks to this jogging backpacks they do not jump up and move from side to side while running.
A 10L or 15L running backpack will work well for longer runs. For shorter workouts, we recommend a running vest with a capacity of up to 5 l or a running belt, into which you can put the most necessary things (e.g. softflask, i.e. flexible bottle, phone, windbreaker).
Bike backpacks are generally larger than cross-country backpacks. They feature a stable carrying system and compatibility with hydration systems. Some bicycle backpacks may have special pockets, for example, for tools or a tire pump.
Material for bags and backpacks
The material for bags and backpacks should be both lightweight and durable. However, it should be mentioned that the two qualities most often do not go together. The more durable and stronger the material, the more weight it usually carries. For example, the same backpack made of abrasion-resistant polyester will weigh more than a model made of nylon. So it's worth answering the question: is your priority the weight of the backpack or its durability?
If you need a model with very high durability, look out for backpacks in which the material used for the bag or backpack is, for example, Cordura. If, on the other hand, weight is more important to you, a good compromise between lightness and durability is provided by nylon backpacks with a Rip-Stop weave, i.e. a distinctive checkered pattern that, if small holes develop, prevents further tearing of the material.
What is the capacity of the backpack?
If you already know what kind of backpack to buy, you are left with the choice of adequate capacity. You may be tempted to buy a backpack larger than you actually need. This is understandable and comes from precaution. After all, a larger backpack can be used both on a daily basis and on longer outings. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that the larger the backpack you choose, the heavier and less manageable it will be.
Backpacks small and medium
Popular city models are usually 20L backpacks (or slightly smaller or larger). A good choice is to buy an A4 backpack that can fit a briefcase with documents. If you take your computer with you, buy a backpack sized to fit your laptop. The size of most backpacks allows you to transport laptops with screens up to 15.4".
Looking for a backpack for short trips? For summer day trips, a 15L or 20L backpack will generally be sufficient. If you will also use the backpack in winter, we recommend buying a larger hiking backpack, such as 30 l or 35 l.
Backpacks large
Do you need a backpack that works well for weekend trips with an overnight stay in a hostel or tent? In this case, a classic 30 l hiking backpack may be too small. A better choice would be to buy a 40 l or 45 l backpack. You should easily fit everything you need for a camping trip into it. Are you planning to spend many days in the field and additionally want to be self-sufficient during this time? Then the amount of gear will increase significantly compared to shorter outings. So you will need a large transport backpack with a capacity of up to 85 liters.
Universal backpacks
Are you a novice hiker and need a backpack that works well for both day and weekend trips? The optimal choice should be a 40-liter backpack. These types of models are characterized by their medium size. They won't be the ideal choice for short treks, but they will work well on such as well as on longer trips.
You can also opt for another option, i.e. to buy a smaller backpack, for example, with a capacity of 30 liters, which is compatible with the MOLLE system, and equip it with additional pockets. You can easily take them off and put them on, adjusting the capacity of the backpack to suit your current plans.
What kind of backpacks are fashionable?
What kind of backpacks are fashionable? We recommend basing your choice of backpack on your individual needs, as they are definitely more durable than the prevailing fashion. Nevertheless, we understand that some people want to follow current trends. That's why MILITARY.PL offers backpacks in a variety of colors.
For some, the color of the backpack does not matter. For others, it is one of the priorities. If you are looking for a backpack that you will use during forest camping, then regardless of what backpacks are currently fashionable, you should not decide on a model in a conspicuous color. In the woods, an olive or camouflage color will work best. For example, backpacks in forest woodland camouflage are very popular. Recently, models in the new Polish camouflage MAPA are also gaining popularity.
How to choose a backpack?
Before making a final decision, it's worth checking that the backpack you want to buy is comfortable and fits well on your back. How to choose a backpack? Just put it on and walk around with it for a while. However, remember not to measure the backpack when it is empty. You need to load it first. Only then will you realistically have a chance to see if the model is comfortable. Pack the backpack with any items so that it gains weight. Put it on your back and adjust all the straps and straps accordingly. Use the backpack for a while and check if it fits well.
Some backpacks (as a rule, trekking and hiking models) are offered in sizes. How to choose the size of a backpack? The parameter to check is usually the length of the back. The size chart should be located next to the product description. In trekking backpacks you can also increasingly find an adjustable carrying system. This allows you to fine-tune the backpack by increasing or decreasing the distance between the suspenders and hip belt. It is also worth mentioning that some backpacks are available in men's and women's versions. Women's models are generally smaller and have a differently shaped hip belt.
Measuring backpacks may seem impossible when buying online. However, this is not true - you can order a backpack on MILITARY.PL, conveniently check it at home, without rushing, and return it free of charge up to 30 days after purchase. That's plenty of time to calmly decide whether the model suits you.
Where to buy a backpack?
Now that you know what kind of backpack to choose, it remains to determine where to buy it. Where to buy a backpack? We immodestly recommend our own services. In the MILITARY.PL store you will find a very wide selection of urban, school, tactical and tourist backpacks. We also offer sports models, climbing or cycling. We further recommend accessories allowing you to expand the functionality of your backpack, such as hydration system bladders, additional pockets, trousers or rain covers.