Choosing the Right Backpack
The old-style, external-framed rucksacks are out; the new-style backpack-cum-carry bags are very much in. These are backpacks with conventional padded straps that can be zipped away if necessary giving the pack the appearance of a soft suitcase. They also have a zip around the entire perimeter of the bag so access is not restricted to the top. The advantages of these are enormous:
- The straps do not flap around and get caught while being transported on planes, trains and automobiles.
- They can be used as carry bags when approaching border posts, thus giving the appearance of greater respectability.
- They can fit into spaces which rigid suitcases would not.
- T hey can be packed and unpacked with great speed - you do not have to unpack the whole pack to get to something at the bottom.
When buying this type of pack make sure that you check three things:
- The strength and quality of the zips. This is imperative because if a zip breaks you have no way of closing the pack.
- Its waterproofness.
- The straps. Make sure they are comfortable and that there is a hip strap which fastens around your waist. This will transfer 60 per cent of the weight to your legs.
The one slight disadvantage with this type of pack is that it is marginally less comfortable to carry than the current range of traditional backpacks. However, this is negligible when you consider the advantages.
When you are buying a pack resist the temptation to get the biggest one available - the bigger it is the more you will put in it. Also ensure that you can lock it. If it does not have locks on it then buy half a dozen small combination locks.
