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Archive for May, 2008

Skateboard Gear: Best Bag and Backpack Features

May 29, 2008 By: Abbie Category: Sports Backpacks No Comments →

Zitteli Future Wing Skateboard Backpack Skateboarding gets more popular each year, and the gear that has come into play with the sport is all being customized to suit the riders. The great part is that you don’t have to be Ryan Sheckler to get top of the line skateboard backpacks and bags, you just have to know what’s out there. Here are some great features on some of the latest:

  • Sometimes bags and backpacks will come with a bonus sticker for your board.
  • CD-MP3 stations have become popular, and some bags even have a removable system that detaches. CD slots and headphone ports are also available in some models. It’s good to have tunes available.
  • Some bags will have a pouch for sunglasses or cell phones. The great part is it keeps these items secure, but still available instead of bumping around in a regular bag.
  • Quick load features are now a common site to see on all kinds of skateboard bags. It won’t slow you down to stash your board.
  • Mesh pockets give some extra storage space with easy access.
  • Some bags feature “hidden” pockets for the skateboard.
  • For those who ride hard, waterproof materials might be the way to go. Certain packs come with waterproof pouches for wet gear.
  • Father’s Day Gifts for New Dads

    May 28, 2008 By: Shari Category: Tips and Advice No Comments →

    Got a new dad you need to shop for this Father’s Day? How about a men’s diaper backpack? That’s right, while diaper bags have been traditionally associated with women’s fashion and style, there is a whole line of sportier, more masculine diaper backpacks and bags designed with the father in mind. Just check out a few below:

    Baby Sherpa Diaper Backpack DadGear Diaper Backpack DadGear Collegiate Series Men's Diaper Backpack DadGear Backpack Diaper Bag

    Dog Backpacks - Put Your Pup to Work

    May 27, 2008 By: James Category: Backpack Styles, Hiking and Outdoors No Comments →

    Mountainsmith Dog PackThere are many dog breeds out there that prefer to feel like they are working in order to live a happy and fulfilled life with their human owners. Examples of this kind of breed include the Akita, Great Dane, Rottweiler and Siberian Husky. One great way to give these dogs a “job” is to suit them up with a dog backpack for walks.

    Dog backpacks can add a little challenge to the walk, and there are many different kinds available these days. The best ones have features such as compression straps to minimize the load and adjustable straps and buckles for customization. You’ll want to be sure that the size you buy is right for your dog’s build, so check the size recommendations first.

    Talk to your veterinarian about the right amount of weight for your dog to carry - you don’t want to overload the pack. Well-conditioned dogs may be able to start out with a little more than infrequent walkers can. Things to carry might include water bottles, dog toys or even treats if they can handle the wait for their reward. While the backpack may not be a good choice for every dog breed, it can be a convenience for some dog owners.

    Take a Hike!

    May 26, 2008 By: Misty Category: Backpack Reviews, Hiking and Outdoors No Comments →

    Quality hiking gear is a must when you’re hitting the trails. You’ll be grateful you chose the best equipment when you’re on mile fifteen, and pulling yourself up the steepest incline of your life. Luckily, there are several brands that specialize in hiking backpacks and accessories.

    Camelbak MULE Hiking Backpack The CamelBak line offers hiking bags with easy access to water bottles, extra compartments for needed gear, and a hydration system for longer hikes. The CamelBak M.U.L.E. has become a favorite for serious hikers due to the Omega HydroTanium reservoir, and a dynamic suspension harness system that guarantees comfort.

    High Sierra Summit 45 Backpack High Sierra offers an attractive line of hiking bags with lightweight internal frames. Choose from the Summit 45, Long Trail 90, Appalachian 75, and the 3-in-1 adventure travel piece, A.T. Gear Access 26″ Wheeled Backpack With Removable Daypack. Great for longer, fully-planned adventures, the hiking bags from High Sierra have a series of lightweight bags with V-shaped compression straps for securing gear, and a hydration ready design with an internal reservoir sleeve.

    Jansport Odyssey Hiking Backpack JanSport offers a line of durable hiking bags for all outdoor adventures. The Equinox and Odyssey are perfect choices for day hikes with plenty of compartment space for any of your hiking needs. The padded, breathable back panel stays dry and the padding gives you a comfortable hiking experience. JanSport hiking bags are favorites due to their high range of daypacks in an array of colors and styles from the popular Driver 8 to the Spring Break. Features included with these hiking bags are large compartments and added comfort with padded backs and shoulder straps.

    Hydration backpacks by CamelBak, OGIO, and Ultimate Direction are a great choice for the adventurer that dares to brave the elements for longer periods of time. The quality material that each hiking bag is made with will sustain rougher hiking terrain and just about any element. Quality features include mesh airflow and high density foam padding, along with top and bottom pack access for the added ease of accessing gear quickly.

    Hiking backpacks are available for every taste with attractive styles, sizes, and colors available in popular brands like the Kelty-Redwing, JanSport-Air Vital, Eagle Creek-Centerline Boundary, High Sierra-Sentinal 65, Patagonia-Endurance pack and the Mountainsmith-Maverick. The newest technology needed for the ultimate hiking experience has been integrated into each and every one of these hiking bags.

    Article by Sherri Granato from AssociatedContent.com

    Overnight Trips: What to Pack

    May 25, 2008 By: Abbie Category: Backpack Styles, Tips and Advice, Travel Backpacks No Comments →

    Olympia Sling Bag Packing for just one night can be a little harder than it may seem at first. Most of us tend to bring more along than we really need, so thinking critically about what goes in the bag is a great way to start. This can be especially important if you are taking public transportation, walking, or flying and need to keep weight to a minimum. Here are some things to bring and some things to consider passing on for the night:

    Bring: Toothbrush/paste, hairbrush, change of clothes, medications, identification, cell phone, directions and essential toiletries such as deodorant.

    Pass on: Cell phone charger (make sure it is charged before you leave), books, extra clothes, extra shoes, pillow and alarm clock.

    Consider carefully: Things such as shampoo, soap and lotion are items that you may be able to do without for the day. See if the place you will be staying has complimentary items for you to use or if you must bring them yourself. If so, use travel sizes. If you bring a camera just make sure you use it!

    Select the right bag to stash all of your items in. A sling backpack can be just right for an overnight trip. These bags are often ergonomically designed and are the right size for the amount of things you will need to pack for one day.

    Picnic Backpacks

    May 24, 2008 By: Shari Category: Backpack Reviews, Backpack Styles, Hiking and Outdoors No Comments →

    Memorial Day weekend is upon us which marks the beginning of summer picnic and barbecue season. With gas prices breaking all-time records and plane ticket prices following suit, a family picnic or barbecue with friends may be a more economical but still totally fun way to celebrate the summer holidays.If you are planning on having a picnic this summer, especially hiking to find the perfect picnic spot, consider bringing all of your food and utensils in a picnic backpack. These bags are perfect for keeping plates, utensils, and food protected and organized without weighing you down. Check out a few great picnic backpacks below:
    Picnic Time Capri Picnic Backpack The Picnic Time Capri is insulated and lightweight. It is outfitted with a detachable insulated wine carrier, a large food compartment, and all amenities needed for a picnic for two including plates, a cheese knife, napkins, wine glasses, a tablecloth, a cutting board, salt and pepper shakers, a corkscrew, and eating utensils.
    Picnic Time Turismo backpack The Picnic Time Turismo features two separate insulated compartments, a water bottle, a multi-use mesh pocket, and a utility clip. This bag is great for maximum storage.
    Picnic Time Avalon Picnic Backpack Similar to the Capri, the Picnic Time Avalon Riviera Edition is insulated and includes service for 2. The components include plates, tumblers, eating utensils, a cutting board, a corkscrew, a bottle stopper, a cheese knife, napkins, a tablecloth, salt and pepper shakers, and the detachable wine duffel.
    Picnic Time Coffee Backpack For a unique twist on the picnic, consider taking the Picnic Time Java Express on a breakfast picnic. This pack includes coffee or tea service for 2 which consists of 2 stainless steel mugs, 1 thermal flask, 1 cream container, 1 sugar container, 2 napkins, 2 tea spoons, and room to store your favorite treats.

    Hiking with Kids: Supplies

    May 23, 2008 By: James Category: Hiking and Outdoors, Kids Backpacks No Comments →

    CamelBak Mini Mule Kids Hydration Backpack Taking children on a hike with you isn’t quite as simple as finding a trail and heading off into the woods. Make sure you are covered with the right supplies; it is a key element in how the trip goes. Here are a few things that you won’t want to be without on any day hike:

  • Sunscreen. Sunburned kids are miserable and prevention is definitely the best plan.
  • Insect repellent. Make sure whatever you use is kid-friendly.
  • First aid kit. I’ve used this more than I would like to admit. Most of the time, minor scrapes are all that might occur, but being ready for other emergencies is important.
  • Snacks. Kids seem to get extremely hungry out of nowhere and then need food immediately. Trail mix is a lifesaver, providing energy in a yummy form. You can even make your own with the kids before you go.
  • Water. Instead of lugging water bottles or juice boxes around, invest in something like a kids’ hydration backpack by CamelBak. They carry a decent amount of water, which is usually available to the child through a plastic tube for easy access. They are pretty neat and kids love them. Perfect for ensuring dehydration isn’t a problem on your hike.
  • Sunglasses or a hat to help keep the sun out of their eyes and protect their scalp from burning.
  • Long hikes will require more gear, such as a flashlight, rain poncho and sweater or jacket.
  • Backpack Handbags For Summer

    May 22, 2008 By: Shari Category: Backpack Handbags, Backpack Styles No Comments →

    Backpack purses are both functional and stylish. They are great when you want to tote everything with you hands-free, but don’t want to look like you’re carrying schoolbooks or hiking gear. Check out these new backpack handbags just in time for the summer season:

    Cappelli Seagrass Backpack Sydney Love Backpack Anuschka Backpack Tommy Hilfiger Drawstring Backpack

    What is a conversion backpack?

    May 21, 2008 By: Abbie Category: Backpack Styles, Travel Backpacks No Comments →

    Hurley Conversion Backpack Many travel backpacks have wheels for easy rolling through airports. These rolling bags are also sometimes called conversion packs because of their ability to quickly convert from rolling mode to backpack mode via hidden backpack straps. Some conversion backpacks even feature a removable daypack, for two bags in one.

    The Hurley Flight Plan Wheeled Travel Backpack is the perfect example of a conversion pack. The wheeled bag has hideaway shoulder straps that transform it into a backpack at a moments notice. The bag also features a a clip off backpack which gives you use of two bags instead of just one.

    Keeping Your Backpack Safe

    May 20, 2008 By: Misty Category: Back To School, College Backpacks, Tips and Advice No Comments →

    While backpacks are a great way to tote your books and school supplies around your college campus, they can also be a magnet for theft. When walking on campus or standing still in line at the coffee shop on the quad, be aware of what’s happening around you.

    Because most backpacks have several compartments in the front, you should ensure that each pocket is zipped and secure. Try to avoid putting your wallet and other very personal items in those front areas. They can easily be removed if you aren’t paying attention to what’s going on behind you.

    Many backpacks come with front compartments that are made specifically for certain items, like pens and pencils. Use the appropriate spaces for those items and put your wallet, keys and other important items closer to you or in the larger compartment with your books.

    JanSport Super Break roxy Backpack Nike Backpack Eastpak Backpack