Ah, the humble backpack. A staple carry bag for the masses, from commuting professionals and students to athletes and hikers, it is quite possibly the perfect bag. Lightweight and easy to carry around, a backpack is the go-to for, well, just about anything that requires transporting from A to B. Laptop, books, gym gear, lunch — you name it, there’s a backpack to carry it.
Starting life as a satchel used by kids to carry books to and from school, the first canvas and leather backpacks hit the market in the 1930s, and were soon embraced by campers and hikers. US outdoor lifestyle brand Gerry claims to have sold the first modern iteration of the backpack — a small and lightweight nylon version with zips — in 1967. It was an immediate hit and the rest, as they say…
Before we get into the details of how to choose the perfect backpack, let’s take a look at some of its best features. First off, a backpack is comfortable to carry. No matter what you have in it, or how heavy it is, it steals a march on shoulder bags and totes because the weight is evenly distributed, and the shoulder straps often padded. This also means that it’s supported by the strong muscles in your back and abs, leaving both hands free so you can send that text or sip that macchiato as you go. Secondly, backpacks make us more organised. No need to fumble through for your keys or wallet because there’s a pocket or a zip for everything, and you can keep your essentials within easy reach. Lastly and perhaps most importantly, backpacks never go out of style! They come in a huge array of shapes, sizes and colours so you can find one that is fit for the purpose and a match for your personality at the same time. Here are our tips on how to find the perfect backpack for you — or someone else.
How big should a backpack be?
What are you planning to carry in it? If it’s a fashion backpack and basically a replacement for a handbag or man bag, you’ll find a collection of backpacks around the 30cm x 30cm mark. That’s perfect for your phone, wallet, a novel and water bottle, with perhaps a few extras thrown in. A laptop backpack will obviously have to fit a laptop (measure yours, as they’re all different!) so will need to be a little bigger at around 45cm tall. Then there are backpacks for specific purposes such as a picnic backpack or nappy bag backpack. Looking for something to tote around your schoolbooks or gym gear? You won’t regret going large. And if you’re heading out on a trip around the world and need to pack for all seasons (and not too many laundry stops) you’re looking at a travel backpack of 50L plus.
What features should I look for in a backpack?
If you’re going to be using your backpack day in day out, the most important features are to do with comfort and convenience, so look for one that is made from durable material, with comfortable shoulder straps. A water bottle holder on the outside of the bag is not a given, so if this is important to you, check that out before you hit purchase. One of the best things about backpacks is their organisation, so lots of zippers and compartments will be a selling feature if you need to get things in and out easily while travelling or on the commute.
How much should I pay for a backpack?
As much as you can afford! A simple drawstring style backpack starts at around $25, and you can pay up to $1200 or more for a top-quality respected brand in beautiful soft leather. Obviously, you get what you pay for, so think about how much you’re going to use it, and how good it will make you feel to have it on your back. If you’re looking for something that stands the test of time, your backpack needs to be functional, but you want it to be beautiful, too.
Is a leather backpack worth the money?
A top-quality backpack will last a lifetime without showing too much wear and tear. Waterproofed canvas and nylon are good choices that will survive a heavy shower or a weekend hike. But perhaps the go-to if you want a durable and timeless backpack is leather. A classic black backpack, or any other neutral shade, will go with everything and will even start to look better when it develops that lovely patina with age. Look after your leather backpack and it will pay you back in spades. If you don’t want animal skin but you still like the luxurious look and feel of leather, check out the vegan leather backpack options here at Hardtofind — made from eco-friendly synthetics or plant fibres.
So now you hopefully have an idea about what kind of backpack you’re looking for. In these pages, you’ll find all the best backpacks for men and backpacks for women, in fact all the best backpacks Australia-wide! You’ll also discover a wide range of other types of bags including tote bags and overnight bags, as well as a range of coats and jackets.
