How can I possibly fit everything into that??!! The reality is if you could fit everything in that you think you need, you would need a crane to get it off the ground. Travel packs combine the features of internal-frame backpacks with traditional suitcases, and are ideal for hostelling trips.
Common features of travel packs include:
Hideaway internal frames
The shoulder straps and hip belt can be tucked away behind a flap or zipped away by a cover. This keeps your straps from being consumed by conveyor belt.
Panel loading
The bag unzips fully like a suitcase and the zippers are lockable. You need access to all of your items without unloading your entire bag.
Detachable daypacks
Your "everyday bag" while the ball and chain is stowed in your locker at the hostel. Avoid reattaching this daypack and instead wear the daypack on your front to distribute the weight of both backpacks. It's not the most stylish, but it will prevent you from falling backwards.
Adjustable suspension system
This allows you to customize the fit of your travel pack to ensure maximum comfort and equal weight distribution. Have your pack adjusted so the hip belt is sitting right above your hip bones and the shoulder straps are snug.
Try on a women's fit backpack, which is specially designed to fit the unique frame of a woman. It may or may not be more comfortable depending on your body type. Guys, try one as well - you never know, it may be the one!
TRY A FEW ON! All packs fit everyone differently; your buddy's most comfortable pack may not be comfortable for you. We have weights here at the Travel Shop so you can test out the packs and find out which one is best for you.
Buy a pack that you can manage when completely full. You should never carry more than a third of you body weight, but aim for a quarter. Remember, a heavy pack will eliminate any freedom imagined from your trip.
Eagle Creek
The only outdoor company solely focused on travel gear. The Explorer LT is an excellent carry-on size pack.
Deuter
Check out the Traveller 70 and the Quantum 55+10. Deuter specializes in alpine bags, which are stronger than panel loading travel packs. They are top loading, so you have to unpack everything if you want something at the bottom. Alpine packs have more substantial hip belts to bear heavier loads.
Asolo
The Navigator 70 is the most popular because it's affordable and has all the features you want in a travel pack. The Encounter series is a cross between a travel pack and an alpine pack.
Do you believe in hostelling? Learn more about the Pacific Mountain Region's ongoing and important process of engaging the organization's "owners".
Backpacker Buzz is a travel blog from HI-Canada's Pacific Mountain Region. It has info on hostels in Canada, hostels around the world and what backpacking is all about.