how to choose a backpack - part 2

Fabrics, stitching, zips and strapping (harness)

These is areas which means the cost of your backpack can change quite dramatically.

Choose a backpack made of Nylon

Backpacks made of polyester are cheaper than those made from nylon as nylon is far stronger than polyester. Nylon is also better over time. Canvas is even sturdier than nylon but is expensive. It is generally used for hiking style backpacks (see this page) because it is waterproof and UV resistant (UV light wears down nylon over time but this is a very long time before this is a concern!).

Nylon packs are not waterproof but they can withstand a decent amount of water. To fully waterproof a nylon pack, purchase a backpack rain cover. Nylon packs are not waterproof due to zips and no seam sealing.

I would choose a backpack made of nylon for a backpacking trip as it is cheaper and you usually wouldn't need the waterproofing.

Density of the fabric

Obviously, the denser the fabric is, the stronger it will be. But the more you have to pay.

The term “denier” is used to measure a fabric's durability and thickness. Some manufacturers also use the term Cordura which is a nylon fabric. A decent backpack will have a denier of around 600 - the highest being 1000 before it is actually canvas.

Higher denier (density) not always the strongest

To have a lighter pack, manufacturers use rip stops combined with strong weaves of nylon. Rip stops are in all shapes (square, diamond etc). The more complex the rip stop, the stronger the material is.

However, as travel backpacks are generally thrown around a lot, high density nylon is generally preferred to rip stops. Choose a backpack made of nylon with a high density for greater resistance to wear and tear

Stitching

Look for double or triple stitching through the whole pack. The more stitching the better and signals a quality backpack that will last.

You should also look out for bar tacking which is a type of stitching method. This is where the second stitching on top of the first runs in a different direction to the original stitching. e.g. if the original stitch is up and down, then the second layer of stitching should be from left to right.

Reinforcing techniques are also a sign of a quality backpack. This is used for features such as handles. Usually a handle will be cross stitched on both sides of the handle where it attaches to the backpack. The handle would also be reinforced on the inside with thick textile webbing. A quality backpack will extend the webbing around the length of the pack. This gives reinforcement and solid weight distribution.

Zips and strapping

The best zips are YKK. A genuine YKK zip will have YKK engraved on the zip. This is important when you choose a backpack as this will dictate how harshly you can use the zips.

Be wary that zips usually aren't included in the backpack's warranty as these are usually the first to go. This is because they are usually the most abused feature of the backpack.

Strapping/Harness

More expensive packs will generally have more comfortable and supportive strapping. So you need to consider how much time you will be carrying your backpack around. Generally, walking to/from the train station won't take that long so you won't need a terribly expensive pack. But if you will be doing 5 day hikes on your travels, you may need to consider an expensive pack with a good strapping system.

When you chooe a pack, you should particularly pay attention to:

• lumbar support
• padding on shoulder straps
• waist belt (needs to be semi rigid and reach around your waist)

The internal frame also needs to be strong, rigid but light weight. The best frames are ones where the internal stays cross one another in an X shape. This helps to distribute weight and helps you to carry the backpack.

The more expensive brands (Deuter, One Planet and Berghaus) have spent lots of money on research and development so their strapping system will be comfortable and effective. This is all reflected in the price. If you are spending the money on a great backpack, make sure you choose one which is fitted to you suit you. Backpacks vary for sexes, height and build. Choosing a backpack which suits your physique will mean that it is more comfortable and easier to carry.

It’s up to you to decide how much time you will be spending carrying your backpack around and whether you spend the money on an expensive backpack when you choose a backpack.

Back to choosing a backpack part 1

Read about:

• why use a backpack?
• size and features of your backpack
• other things to take – sleeping bag, books, Ipod, digital camera
• choosing quality sleeping bags
• carry on luggage restrictions

Return to packing a backpack