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Travel Backpacks: Safety Tips

May 03, 2008 By: Misty Category: Tips and Advice, Travel Backpacks No Comments →

Victorinox Backpack Traveling with a backpack calls for a few extra safety measures, regardless of whether you are going on a long journey or just tooling around town on vacation. Here are some simple steps you can take to help protect yourself from theft and other unpleasant issues when using travel backpacks:

  • Take what you absolutely need with you and mail items you don’t have to bring on the way to your final destination. That way you can have a lighter pack for the trip itself.
  • If you are carrying important documents, leave a copy of them with someone that you can call if need be. That way if your backpack gets lost you will have copies of the information if you need it.
  • Carry some money in a travel wallet.
  • When on a train or bus it can be a good idea to remove your backpack so you can keep an eye on it. The same thing goes for very crowded areas. Try not to keep valuables where they can easily be seen or snatched.
  • If eating out, put the backpack under the table and loop a strap through your chair leg for additional security.
  • Consider a wire mesh “pack safe” if you are traveling anywhere that you are concerned about theft.
  • Never leave your backpack unattended, even in a car.
  • Backpacking Backpacks: Lighten Up!

    May 02, 2008 By: James Category: Hiking and Outdoors No Comments →

    Gregory Backpack Packing in a backpacking backpack is an art. You want to make sure you have enough gear for the trip, but extra stuff means extra weight, which will just weigh you down when you’re on your feet for hours at a time. Plan what items you generally bring with you, and choose a backpack that fits the amount of room you need. Here are some tips for lightening the load:

  • Skip the luxury items. Do you really need that extra pair of shoes? Could you do without your deodorant for a few days (your companions would probably say “No!”)? Anything you can leave out is less stress on your body later.
  • Opt for a lighter backpack if you can. You’ll have less weight from the start.
  • Bag up items rather than taking entire containers. Pass on that bottle of aspirin in favor of a few tablets. You get the idea.
  • Don’t skimp on emergency gear such as first aid or flashlights, but make sure you are not taking too much either.
  • Learn from others. Watch what other people are doing to save weight and pack smart. You can likely pick up a tip or two that will add to your knowledge.
  • Hunting Backpacks

    April 14, 2008 By: James Category: Backpack Styles, Hiking and Outdoors, Sports Backpacks No Comments →

    Kelty Cache Hauler Complete Hunting Backpack Backpacking off into the wild for a hunt may not be everyone’s idea of the perfect getaway. But those who have tried it often enjoy it, and some even find it has some distinct advantages over going the full-camp route. For one, there are none of the animal noises from horses that could scare off game. People who set off for a hunt on foot can also easily maneuver into places that those who have pack mules and lots of gear can’t. Even if you prefer to go the traditional route, bringing a backpack can help keep things sorted and make life just a little bit easier.

    Hunting backpacks come in different shapes and sizes and they can be a great organization tool for gear. External-style backpacks with a large frame have been popular items, but more recently the internal frame packs are coming into favor with many hunters. Camouflage prints are popular, as are smaller packs which can be clipped onto larger ones for a customizable setup, depending on what your needs are.

    One of the nicest parts about backpacks that are designed for hunters is that some forethought was put into the fact that hunters often carry heavy loads. Other features that these backpacks can have are things such as flashlight compartments, easy-access mesh pockets that make it simple to stash a few items quickly, and hydration compatibility.

    Five Uses for Hard Shell Backpacks

    April 11, 2008 By: Shari Category: Backpack Reviews, Backpack Styles No Comments →

    Boblebee Backpack Hard shell backpacks were a clever invention. Made to protect whatever is inside, they are like a bag with an insurance policy. So what do most people carry inside these backpacks? Here are five things they are commonly used for:

    1. Laptops. When cushioning isn’t enough, the hard shell gives its owner a bit more peace of mind on a business trip.
    2. Mountain bikers. This rough type of ride needs a backpack that can take the trails.
    3. Motorcycle riders. Just like mountain bikers, motorcycle riders don’t mess around when it comes to protective gear.
    4. People who ski. Skiing is a sport that can cause a tumble; or at least a fall here and there. Hard shell packs protect, and some designs even help keep things dry too.
    5. Kids. Lighter hard shells can help offer some protection for children who can be a little harder on gear sometimes.

    Ergonomics are also taken into consideration in the design process for hard shell backpacks so that they fit properly and are comfortable. Style is another item that has been addressed, and they don’t sit like big bubbles on the back, but are rather sleek-looking. Some surfaces are even customizable for those who like to decorate themselves.

    Backpack Handbags - A Fashionable Backpack Option

    April 09, 2008 By: Shari Category: Backpack Handbags, Backpack Styles No Comments →

    Tignanello Organizer BackpackNo longer just functional, these days backpacks can be very stylish too. There are certain options out there that can serve you well when going out shopping, to a museum, or for other all day trips. When you need to bring some things with you but don’t want to get too crazy with size, there is one bag that is just perfect for that in-between kind of use.

    Backpack handbags are ideal for a long day out where you need to bring a few things but still want to keep everything handy. Access is the name of the game with this kind of bag, with its zippered pouches and versatile carrying options. You can bring it with you as a clutch or sling it over your shoulder. Straps also allow for the backpack-style carry method if preferred. These items are just the right size for a light excursion.

    This type of bag comes in many different sizes, shapes and patterns/colors, so it is easy to customize and choose one that goes with your needs — or even your mood. The zippered pockets help ensure that things don’t fall out along the way, and the extra compartments can really help keep things organized over the course of a day.

    In Praise of the Waterproof Backpack

    April 07, 2008 By: Shari Category: Backpack Styles, Hiking and Outdoors No Comments →

    Pacific Outdoor Equipment Waterproof Backpack Anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors knows that a rainstorm can appear out of nowhere, especially when you are in a forest or a place where it is difficult to see the sky well. Suddenly you are getting soaked all the way down to your socks and have no idea how long it will continue. It isn’t always possible to get to a shelter area, but having a waterproof backpack is the next best thing.

    Waterproof backpacks are ideal for other situations as well, including water sports, boating and even the beach. You’ll rest easier knowing that water won’t be seeping into your stuff. Another option is a rain cover for your backpack, which is sort of like a raincoat that fits over your existing pack. It can be a little extra insurance if you don’t want to buy a waterproof one.

    Another reason to consider this type of gear is the fact that electronics don’t mix well with water. If you like to have a GPS or camera with you while enjoying the outdoors, it can really pay to invest in something that will keep them dry and be easy to carry.

    Which bag is right for college?

    April 02, 2008 By: Shari Category: Backpack Styles, College Backpacks No Comments →

    Jansport Superbreak Backpack On large university campuses, classes may be widespread with no time to return to your dorm room between classes. It’s frustrating to find you don’t have the right books or the assignment you labored over last night when you get to class. It pays to be organized when it comes to toting heavy books, supplies and your laptop around campus.

    Think about what college bags will work best on campus:

  • Backpacks have been a student staple for many years and there are styles for any personal taste and budget. Traditional shoulder backpacks have one large compartment and sometimes a smaller outside pocket. They are carried on your back by two shoulder straps or by hand.
  • Wheeled backpacks come in two styles. There are school backpacks with permanent wheels specially designed for transporting books that are too heavy for carrying and convertible rolling backpacks with retractable wheels and a telescoping handle, as well as shoulder straps. (Alternative carrying options come in handy when terrain gets rough to roll or negotiating stairs). Check out school backpack brands by JanSport, CalPak, Eagle Creek and High Sierra.
  • Stylish college messenger bags are the hottest trend at many campuses. The messenger bag is an envelope-styled satchel with a single long, adjustable shoulder strap that can be worn over one shoulder or over the head diagonally across the body. Victorinox Swiss Army, OGIO, JanSport, North Face and Timbuk2 are leading college messenger bag brands.
  • If you carry a laptop between classes, it is important to choose a laptop backpack or bag with a separate padded compartment to protect your computer.
  • For outdoor activities, you may want purchase a sports backpack or combination sports and hydration backpack for your gear.