If you are planning an adventure, one of the most important things to consider is what luggage you will take. Generally, if you are traveling to multiple destinations, it is best to pack light and use bags that are easy to maneuver. Suitcases are popular among travelers as they can be easier to carry heavier weights, but they can be clunky when getting on and off public transport. Backpacks, however, offer travelers many benefits, especially when solo. We take a look at 15 game-changing ways a backpack can help solo travelers:
Freedom of Movement
Backpacks free your hands for other tasks, such as using a compass, navigating a city with a map, holding trekking poles, or carrying food supplies back to your hostel. Earring your luggage on your back also allows you to grab your cell phone or camera to take pictures when you’re on the move.
Carry All Your Gear
Wearing your luggage on your back allows you to comfortably carry everything you need for your adventure, from food and water to clothing, shelter, and safety equipment. There are lots of compartments for easy access to different items and handy places to clip on water bottle holders and sleeping bags.
Organized Packing
A backpack with compartments helps you stay organized and makes it easier to find what you need. Travelers often use packing cubes to separate different outfits and keep dirty clothes away from clean ones.
Easy Hydration
Some backpacks come with built-in hydration sleeves or attachment points for water bladders. This means you can stay fully hydrated throughout your adventure. If your backpack doesn’t have a built-in system, it is likely to have a pouch for your water bottle.
Adjustability
Backpacks come in numerous styles and sizes to suit different needs and activities. For ultimate comfort, you can easily adjust backpacks to fit your torso length and weight distribution. The versatile nature of backpacks means you can adjust them during your travels, keeping them compact when you start and expanding when you buy more items as you explore. You can also use the more compact style when at home and attending events like festivals or weekends away.
Weather Resistance
A good quality backpack is built to withstand the elements and heavy use. Look for features like water-resistant materials and reinforced stitching. A durable backpack will not only see you through one adventure but will last for years.
Stability
A properly fitted backpack distributes weight evenly across your hips and shoulders, reducing strain and limiting fatigue. Backpacks with waist straps and chest buckles also help keep the pack stable while you move.
Easy Shelter
A backpack can be used as a makeshift shelter or sleeping pad in an emergency. Even if thin, it can provide some insulation from the cold ground, especially compared to sleeping directly on dirt or rock.
Offers Security
Having a backpack directly on you at all times is different from a suitcase, which is often left unattended when you need free hands. Modern backpacks will have secure locks, and designers make it difficult for people to steal items behind the wearer’s back.
Easy Access to Essentials
Many backpacks have hip belt pockets or top compartments that allow you to quickly access essential items like snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and your phone. This is important when hiking or walking long distances to ensure you can reach your next stop.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have everything you need packed securely on your back provides peace of mind. This creates more space for you to focus on enjoying your adventure. There is no panic when you wonder what bag you put your phone in or where you left your passport.
Sense of Accomplishment
Carrying your travel gear on your back can give you a sense of accomplishment and self-reliance, especially on challenging hikes or long journeys. This is the case for solo travelers who need a companion to help carry the load.
Multiple Uses
Backpacks are not just for wilderness adventures but also day trips, commuting to work or school, and everyday errands. How often have you gone out with the kids on a day and had four separate bags for food, mud boots, wipes, and sunscreen? With a backpack, you can have it all in one place, freeing up your hands to keep hold of the kids.
A Stylish Accessory
Gone are the days of boring black backpacks. Modern versions come in a variety of colors and styles to suit your taste. You can find a functional and fashionable backpack to make your adventure fun.
Memories in the Making
The backpack you carry on your solo adventure will likely become a cherished reminder of your experience for years to come. While this sounds silly to some, traveling solo is a significant achievement that should be celebrated.