Backpack Buying Guide: Choosing Your Bag Style

A backpack is a simple thing, two straps and it goes on your back. Right? Unfortunately not. While they may look similar, backpacks can vary significantly depending on what they’re built to do and who they’re designed to fit. Which is why the backpack you send a kid to school with is different from the one you wear skiing or snowboarding, which is different still from the one you’d use on a long multi-day backpacking trip.

Because each kind of backpack is different, it’s worth understanding what kind of bag you’re looking for so you know what kind of bag to buy. Understanding the features and design that works best for your needs will simplify the selection process and make it easy for you to find the perfect backpack.

Bookbags

If you’re looking to haul books, laptops, or lunch, you’re looking for a bookbag. These urban-focused bags are designed for helping people young or old carry daily essentials to school, work, or anywhere in between. They focus on organization and durability, making it easy for users to carry everything they need safely and find what they’re looking for.

Examples:

• The North Face Jester Backpack
• Dakine Method 25L Backpack
• DB The Varldsvan 17L Backpack

Hydration Packs

Hydration packs are an essential piece of gear for outdoor enthusiasts who value convenience and efficiency during their adventures. Designed to keep you hydrated without interrupting your activity, these packs feature a built-in reservoir (or bladder) that allows you to drink through a tube, making them ideal for hiking, biking, running, or skiing.

Examples:

• CamelBak M.U.L.E Pro 14L Hydration Backpack
• Dakine Session 8L Hydration Backpack
• CamelBak Arete 18L with 50oz Hydration Backpack

Running Packs

Sleek and small, these backpacks, vests, and hip packs are designed to carry essential hydration and a few small items, nothing else. The minimalist design maximizes ventilation for improved warm-weather comfort, and the straps are all designed to stabilize the pack and minimize bouncing as you run.

Examples:

• Nathan Laser Light 3L Hydration Pack
• Nathan VaporAiress 4L Hydration Vest
• Nathan TrailMix Plus Insulated 3.1 Hydration Belt

That’s a lot of packs, and a lot to think about before making your next purchase. And these examples are just a sample of what we have available in-store and online at Peter Glenn. But you don’t have to make the decision alone, you can always contact us with any questions or stop into one of our convenient locations to get expert advice on which backpack will work best for you.