Backpacks have long been a part of the high school and college scenes. You probably know it’s the best way to carry books. Did you know it’s the best way to carry almost anything? Modern backpack design has advanced the trusty carryall to new heights. Convenient features allow for greater flexibility. New materials offer a more comfortable construction. If you haven’t used a backpack since your college days, it’s time for a second look.
Diaper Bags to Sports
What’s in a backpack? It turns out it’s practically everything these days. Backpacks are used for diaper bags, work holdalls, and traveling companions. To get the most out of your backpack, look for these features:
- Adjustable padded shoulder straps
- Padded laptop or tablet sleeve
- Water bottle pockets
- Mesh zipper compartments
- Interior compression straps
- Exterior zipper pocket
An added bonus is a trolley sleeve that allows you to slip the backpack onto the handle of your roller luggage.
While it’s true you can use a well-drafted backpack for any purpose, there are backpacks designed specifically as diaper bags. Typically these bags will have an abundance of separate zippered compartments for dirty items. They might also include a portable changing pad and key or pacifier lanyard. A diaper backpack makes a great gift for a new parent.
Even Backpacks For Kids
Kids often carry backpacks to school, but did you know they are ideal for travel, too?
A child-sized backpack allows your kid to carry the essentials such as a tablet, snacks, and a change of clothing. Use it for overnighters or weekends with Grandma. Invest in a backpack made of tough denier nylon and it will outlast childhood.
Beyond Backpacks
While you can carry everything you need for work in a backpack, that may not be quite the right look for you. Consider the world of work totes. Work totes come in many sizes to accommodate your load. Need room for your laptop? Check. Have to fit a pair of dress shoes? No problem.
A useful work tote will have multiple interior pockets to separate papers and files. There should be a padded pocket for your laptop or tablet. Both hand straps and a cross-body strap are needed for ergonomic carrying options. Once again, a trolly sleeve to attach your tote to your roller bag suitcase is a nice touch.
Also, check out weekender bags for another ultra-convenient way to haul your stuff. A generous bag has room for three changes of clothing, shoes, toiletries, and your laptop. Look for one made of polyester or nylon for an easy-care, lightweight travel companion.
Make It a Set
It’s not a bad idea to match your backpack, diaper bag, tote, or weekender bag to your larger carry-on luggage. It makes keeping track of your gear so much easier when you’re in crowded hotels or airports.
Start your search for the right backpack today. Look at what you already have and make a list of the features you like and what you want to change. Talk to local retailers and look online for the right bag for you.
