Table of contents :
Choosing the backpack for your road trip (more than 15 days) requires taking into account several criteria. Height, weight and your body shape are part of it. Discover all the other factors to consider to find THE bag for your trip around the world:
Size
Go for a backpack with a space capacity adapted to the number of days and the different activities planned during your trip around the world.
On my side, I'm 1m56, 52kg and I have a Columbus Respirar 45 L backpack (64 x 33/28 x 26 cm - 45L - 1.2 kg - A08169) that I bought in 2015 and that I still use :
Tip : I find that traveling light helps make the trip less stressful and more comfortable. As a result, traveling with a 45L bag prevents me from bringing too many (useless) things and allows me to have a bag that will not be heavier than 8kg (in line with the recommended maximum of 15%). The size is suitable enough that I also don't struggle when it comes to tidy my stuff every time I change destinations during my trip and need to reorganize my backpack.
Weight
Try to choose a lightweight backpack to minimize the weight you carry on your back during your road trip. This point is critical to avoid injuries and back pain. As a general rule, a backpack should weigh no more than 10-15% of the wearer's body weight. This means that if you weigh 70 kilos, your full backpack should not exceed 7 to 10 kilos.
Here is a table that should help you get an idea of the maximum weight for you:
Your weight | Maximum weight of your backpack (15% of your weight) |
35kg | 5.25kg |
40kg | 6kg |
45kg | 6.75kg |
50kg | 7.5kg |
55kg | 8.25kg |
60kg | 9kg |
65kg | 9.75kg |
70kg | 10.5kg |
75kg | 11.25kg |
80kg | 12kg |
85kg | 12.75kg |
90kg | 13.5kg |
95kg | 14.25kg |
100kg | 15kg |
105kg | 15.75kg |
Tip :
Like I said in my blog post about weight distribution, make sure to put your heavy equipments in the center of the bag.
Comfort
Choose a backpack with a comfortable carrying system, including padded and adjustable shoulder straps, a hip belt and a ventilated back. Also make sure it fits your body properly.
Durability
Opt for a backpack made from sturdy and water-resistant materials. You don't want your backpack to tear or your belongings to get wet during your trip.
Organization
Look for a backpack with multiple compartments and pockets to organize your belongings. This will make it easier to access your items and prevent you from having to dig through the entire bag to find what you need.
Personally, I'm not a fan of "funnel" backpacks and I prefer bags that open at the front with a large zipper. I find them much easier to use.
Example of a bag with a large zipper.
Security
Choose a backpack with security features such as a locking zipper or hidden pockets to keep your valuables safe.
Ultimately, the choice of backpack will depend on your personal needs and preferences. Be sure to try it on before buying to make sure it is comfortable and meets all your requirements. Opt for a bag that matches your size and your physical ability to carry it comfortably over long distances. For example, a smaller person might prefer a backpack with a smaller capacity to avoid being overloaded, while a taller person might manage a larger bag more easily.
In addition to capacity, consider the backpack's carrying system. Look for a model with adjustable straps to fit the length of your torso. A well-fitted abdominal belt that can transfer some of the weight to the hips is also important, as it relieves pressure on the back.