Total capacity
The working volume of a backpack determines the maximum amount of cargo that can be carried in it. Note that not all manufacturers indicate this parameter in the same way: in one case it can only be the volume of the main compartment, in the other — the total capacity, taking into account all compartments and pockets. If the exact value is important for you, you should separately specify this parameter for each model of interest.
The optimal volume of a backpack is directly related to its intended purpose and features of use. For example, for an urban model designed for documents and textbooks, most often 10 liters is enough, and for trips lasting several days, about 60-70 liters, or even more, may be needed. In general, when choosing the optimal volume for a hiking backpack, it is best to turn to reference literature, or for advice from experienced “hikers”.
Note that the volume of the backpack can often be adjusted. One of the options is side ties (see "Design") to change the thickness. And in some versions, it may also be possible to change the volume due to a special folding insert made of fabric — if necessary, it can be expanded and the height of the backpack can be increased. The names of such models often contain two numbers, for example 35:45 — they indicate the volume in the folded and unfolded form, respectively. In our catalog for these options, the maximum volume is indicated, in the unfolded position.
Design
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Sealed. This feature means that the backpack can be hermetically sealed, preventing water from getting inside (not to be confused with
the included rain cover). In addition, such models are usually made of waterproof materials. Such properties can be indispensable in conditions of high humidity - for example, when rafting down a mountain river, when splashes constantly fall on things in the boat.
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Rolltop closing method. A special method of closing the backpack, allowing you to adjust its height and actual volume depending on the degree of fullness. The Rolltop backpack has the appearance of a bag with a soft upper part, which, when closed, rolls into a characteristic roll and is secured with a special fastener. This design, when closed, closes the backpack very tightly and reliably (almost hermetically), and when open it provides a wide neck, making it easier to access the contents of the bag; and there are much fewer fasteners in such backpacks than in traditional ones, which significantly simplifies use and reduces cost. At the same time, for a number of reasons, this design is considered suitable mainly for urban models; in other types of backpacks it is much less common.
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Top valve. Initially, the top flap is a piece of fabric that covers the top of a closed backpack and provides additional protection (mainly from ba
...d weather). However, in modern backpacks this part is often equipped with its own pockets and actually represents an additional slot; in some models, such a slot is even removable and can be used as a separate handbag.
— Side opening. Possibility of access to the contents of the backpack through a clasp or flap on the side. This feature is especially relevant for roomy models that have a large height: you do not have to disassemble all the contents lying on top to get to the things at the bottom of the backpack.
— Bottom opening. The presence of a fastener at the bottom of the backpack, which provides access to its contents from below. The purpose of this function is similar to the side opening (see on top): to facilitate access to things located at the bottom of the backpack. It is especially useful for high-volume models, although it can also be useful for a relatively small product for urban or sports purposes. There is also a slightly different design option: the lower clasp opens not into the main slot, but into a small slot separated by a partition (the partition can be made opening, or even removable, which allows you to combine the lower slot with the main one).
— Front opening. Another additional way to access the contents of the backpack is through the clasp on its front side (opposite the back). Much the same as the side opening described on top, but the opening on the front can be made larger, making it easier to both access contents and load bulky items.
— Full opening. The possibility of full opening provides convenient access to the entire contents of the backpack. In practice, it is usually implemented using special designs of locks and zippers that run along the entire perimeter of the product. The backpack opens like a book, allowing you to quickly and easily access the items you need without removing all the contents. At the same time, this design solution makes it easier to organize the packing of things when packing them into a backpack.
— Output of the drinking system. Possibility of installing a sports drinking system in a backpack. This system consists of a soft synthetic container for water, with a capacity of up to several liters, and a tube with a valve. Accordingly, to install it, the backpack must have a slot for the container, a hole for the tube to exit, and a device for fixing it from the outside. The tube is usually secured to the backpack strap within easy reach; thanks to this, you can take a sip of water at any time without stopping or being distracted by opening/closing your backpack, which is especially useful on long hiking or cycling trips. The drinking system itself is usually not included in the package, but there are exceptions (see “Hydrator included”).
— Possibility of folding. The ability to compactly pack a backpack - for example, in a special case or tube. A useful feature if you need to travel with an empty backpack: transporting it packed in this case is often more convenient than carrying it on your shoulders without a load. The possibility of folding is found mainly in sports models (see “Purpose”).
— Change in volume. Possibility to increase/decrease the volume of the backpack. Most often, this function is provided by unfastening the zipper along the perimeter of the model itself (in fact, the volume of the main slot increases according to the principle, as is done in suitcases), there are exceptions with the location of the zipper at the bottom or front. Do not confuse changes in volume with screeds. In this case, changing the volume physically increases the size of the backpack by releasing hidden (folded or zipped) parts of the main or additional slot.
— Single-strap. Backpacks that have one strap and are designed to be worn over the shoulder. Single-strap products are found both among youth urban models and in specialized categories of backpacks, in particular tactical ones (see “In the direction”). This design not only provides the backpack with an original appearance, but also provides some very practical advantages. Thus, a single-strap backpack can be easily moved on the stomach - for example, to get something out of it, or for convenience in public transport. Also, such a product is more convenient when shooting with a rest on the shoulder than a classic backpack (of course, if you rest the weapon on a shoulder that is not covered by a strap). And for additional convenience, the design may include a side belt. On the other hand, single-strap backpacks do not distribute weight as evenly as classic backpacks and are not well suited for carrying heavy loads; therefore their volume is usually small.
