Adventure. Fashion. Freedom.
Something you can use to carry your necessities hands free.
What accessory do these clues remind you of?
A backpack.
It was not too long ago when most backpacks were being marketed toward children and teenagers. So, who would have thought that many people today would be using backpacks way beyond their teenage years?
Indeed, over time, backpacks have gone from being accessories frequently found in primary and high school hallways to recurring high-fashion must-haves on runways.
After all, who wouldn’t like to walk around with everything they need, but with arms swinging, in a leather backpack in Dubai (or anywhere in the world)? The freedom that backpacks offer makes them a fundamental element in the modern human wardrobe and as fashion accessories.
Whether you’re going back to school, going for a weekend getaway, or planning to climb the Himalayas, you need to be careful what type of backpack you choose.
To make things easier for you, we have put together this guide that’ll help you make the right choice of backpack.
Focus on comfort
Comfort is undoubtedly the most crucial factor to consider when choosing a backpack. The wrong choice can cost you back pain, or worse; you could get hurt.
The build of a backpack plays a very determining role in the user’s comfort. That is why you should pay attention to the shape of the back, the shoulder straps, and the padding of the backpack when choosing one. Backpacks with these elements distribute weight over the whole body and not over a part of the body.
Here is how each of these elements contributes to your comfort:
- Adjustable, padded shoulder straps reduce the strain on your back.
- The contoured and padded backs provide a natural arch to prevent back pain. Bags with contoured backs follow your lower back’s natural shape, which adds to the comfort of carrying the pack.
- Padded hip belts take the weight off your back and shoulders and place more of the load on your leg muscles, allowing you to carry heavier loads for longer.
It’s hard to know for sure if the backpack you’re looking at is right for you until you have a chance to fill it with your gear. When going to a store, take your equipment with you or ask them to provide it for you to try the loaded backpack.
Take a look at the fabric material
No one wants their valuables, electronics, books, or important files to be damaged by a sudden downpour because their backpack couldn’t withstand the rain. Likewise, no one wants to have to change their gear every two months because it’s made from flimsy material.
Quality backpacks are made from high-quality, durable materials. But the choice of material for your gear should be based on your goals.
For example, nylon, canvas, and polyester are functional materials for travel backpacks, but they are a little too simple to make a chic fashion statement.
The best backpacks are stylish and elegant, made from luxurious fabrics such as leather, suede, and even velvet for a more upscale adult look.
But suppose you’re going on an adventure, and you have electronic equipment on you. In that case, you might want to consider a backpack that is waterproof and has the right amount of padding to protect electronic devices and other delicate gear.
It is also a widespread practice for users to throw away their old bags because of torn straps, broken zippers, and loose seams.
The straps are the parts most susceptible to tears. Therefore, observe the seams and spinning material when buying a backpack. Double seams are essential.
Above all, avoid carrying loads that the bag is not designed to support.
Consider your activity needs
Choosing between backpacks, rucksacks, and minimalist bags may leave you confused.
To choose the right bag, you need to have a clear idea of your needs and goals so that the bag you purchase meets all your expectations.
Here is a list of questions you need to ask yourself:
- Will the backpack fit all the items you need to carry?
- Will you move from one place to another, or will you stay put for most of the day?
- What is the weather like in your area?
If you are only going to use the backpack for short hikes or going to school, a canvas backpack is appropriate. If you are traveling with different objects here and there, a travel kit is what you should shoot for. You can find travel kits such as Tumi travel accessories online.
But if your primary means of transportation is a bicycle, a waterproof nylon backpack would work best.
You might also want to consider a versatile backpack that is suitable for any kind of course load.
Decide on your budget
Now that you’ve made all the other decisions about product type, features, and options, it has probably helped you narrow down the brands and models to choose from. Now, you should make your final decision based on your budget.
How much does a backpack cost?
Generally, the lowest price is not the best option when buying a backpack, unless your budget is limited. Purchasing an affordable pack may save you a few dollars, but you can’t afford to buy a bag made of substandard materials.
Picture this: You’re walking down the street, confident as you show off your new ‘cheap’ backpack. Suddenly, your backpack tears, causing your stuff to fall and spill out onto the ground.
You wouldn’t want that to happen, right?
The backpack price should reflect the quality of the materials used, the design, and some other factors.
If you’re unsure, these questions may help you be more decisive:
- Is it a limited edition backpack?
- Is it hand-crafted or mass-produced in a factory?
Some basic backpacks can cost a few dirhams, while high-end leather backpacks can easily cost you a few hundreds or thousands of dirhams.
We hope these tips will help you choose a new backpack that’s not only stylish but will also serve you for longer.