As a travel blogger, I understand the importance of finding the right backpack that can accommodate all my travel essentials while keeping me comfortable on the go. In this article, I will explore the factors to consider and the research to undertake when selecting a travel backpack. I will also assist you in finding the best backpack for your needs, and provide a brief review of my top recommendation.
Determine Your Travel Needs
Before embarking on your quest for the perfect backpack, it's essential to assess your specific travel requirements. Consider the following factors:
Trip Duration: Determine the typical length of your trips to gauge the required capacity of your backpack.
Travel Style: Are you an adventure seeker, city explorer, or a combination of both? Your travel style will influence the design and features you need.
Destinations: Consider the climates and terrain you frequently encounter to choose a backpack that suits different environments.
Activities: If you engage in activities like hiking, photography, or working remotely, ensure your backpack can accommodate specific equipment.
Backpack Research:
Once you have a clear understanding of your travel needs, it's time to dive into the research phase. Consider the following aspects while evaluating different backpack options:
Capacity and Size: Look for a backpack with sufficient capacity to hold your essentials, but avoid going overboard, as a smaller bag can provide better mobility.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Look for padded shoulder straps, hip belts, and adjustable suspension systems to ensure a comfortable fit and weight distribution.
Durability and Quality: Check for materials such as nylon, polyester, or Cordura, as they offer excellent durability. Reinforced stitching and quality zippers are also crucial.
Organization and Accessibility: Consider the number of compartments, pockets, and access points to ensure easy organization and convenient access to your belongings.
Weight: Traveling light is often desirable, so opt for a backpack that balances durability and features with lightweight construction.
Best Travel Backpack for Me:
SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack
After extensive research, I have identified the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack as the ultimate travel companion. Here's a brief review:
The SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack is a great backpack for travelers who frequently carry several electronics and need easy organization. The backpack is made of weather-resistant 1200D ballistic polyester fabric which makes it durable and long-lasting. It has a TSA-friendly design that allows you to keep your laptop in the bag while going through airport security. The backpack has a lot of pockets and compartments that can hold all your essentials including your laptop, tablet, phone, and other tech gadgets. It also has a headphone port that allows you to listen to music while on the go.
According to TripSavvy, the SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack is a smart investment for travelers who frequently carry several electronics, need easy organization, and like the look of a more professional case. Tech Advisor also recommends the SwissGear Scansmart SA1900 laptop backpack as a great travel rucksack (TSA approved) for laptops, tablets, tech gadgets and valuables. Don’t Waste Your Money also recommends the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Tech-Friendly Backpack as one of the top 15 products in the category.
Pros of the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack
TSA-Friendly Design: The backpack features a ScanSmart lay-flat compartment that allows you to pass through airport security without removing your laptop or tablet, saving you time and hassle.
Spacious and Organized: The backpack offers a generous capacity of 31 liters, providing ample space for all your travel essentials. It features multiple compartments, including a large main compartment, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and various smaller pockets, enabling you to stay organized on the go.
Comfortable to Carry: The backpack incorporates padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel, enhancing comfort during extended wear. The adjustable sternum strap and waist belt help distribute the weight evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders and back.
Durable Construction: SwissGear is known for its quality craftsmanship, and the 1900 Scansmart Backpack is no exception. It is made from durable 1200D polyester fabric, which can withstand the rigors of travel and protect your belongings.
Versatile Features: The backpack includes external features like a side water bottle pocket, a quick-access front pocket, and a top grab handle, offering added convenience and versatility during your travels.
Tech-Friendly: With a dedicated padded laptop compartment that can accommodate up to a 17-inch laptop, as well as a tablet pocket, the backpack ensures your electronic devices are well-protected during transit.
Cons of the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack
Bulkiness: The backpack's ample storage space and additional padding contribute to its overall bulkiness, which may make it less ideal for travelers who prefer a compact or minimalist design.
Limited Ventilation: The back panel lacks extensive ventilation, which can cause some discomfort during hot and humid climates or extended periods of wear.
Heavier Weight: Due to its durable construction and extra features, the backpack itself weighs around 3.3 pounds (1.5 kg), which can add to the overall load you carry.
Water Resistance: While the backpack offers some water resistance, it is not fully waterproof. In heavy rain or wet conditions, additional precautions such as using a rain cover or packing items in waterproof pouches may be necessary.
It's important to note that individual preferences may vary, and what may be a con for one person could be acceptable or even preferred by another. Consider your specific needs and priorities to determine if the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack aligns with your travel requirements.
Check out the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack reviews and make your purchase on Amazon.
Runner-Up Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
Choosing between the Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack and the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack was an incredibly challenging decision for me. On one hand, the Osprey Farpoint 40's compactness and carry-on friendly design appealed to my desire for easy maneuverability and portability. Its 40-liter capacity offered ample space for my travel essentials while adhering to airline restrictions. The comfort provided by its supportive suspension system, padded shoulder straps, and breathable mesh back panel made it an enticing choice for long hours of wear. However, after careful consideration, I ultimately chose the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack. Its 31-liter capacity, coupled with the exceptional organizational features such as the ScanSmart lay-flat compartment and multiple pockets, convinced me that it would perfectly suit my needs. The backpack's durability, tech-friendly design, and comfortable straps sealed the deal. The SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack stood out as the ideal travel companion that would not only keep my belongings organized and secure but also provide the comfort and convenience I desired.
Pros:
Compact and Carry-On Friendly: The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets most airlines' carry-on size restrictions, making it ideal for travelers who prefer to avoid checked baggage.
Comfortable Suspension System: It features a supportive suspension system with padded shoulder straps and a mesh back panel, providing excellent comfort and ventilation.
Versatile Design: The backpack includes a large main compartment, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and multiple pockets for efficient organization. It also has a detachable daypack for added convenience.
Con:
Less Tech-Friendly: The laptop sleeve is not as well-padded as the SwissGear backpack, which may require additional protection for sensitive electronics.
Check out the Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack reviews and make your purchase on Amazon.
Choosing the right travel backpack is a crucial decision for every avid traveler. By understanding your travel needs and conducting thorough research, you can find a backpack that meets your requirements for comfort, durability, and organization. Consider the factors discussed in this guide to make an informed decision and embark on your next adventure with the perfect backpack by your side. Happy travels!