Picking the right RTW backpack takes some foresight into where you are going and what kind of traveler (and packer) you are. There is a lot that goes into choosing the right backpack for your RTW that comes along with many intangibles.
Picking a backpack that you’ll use over and over is more of an art than a science but there are some important pack features to consider when making your decision.
Backpack Sizes
Backpacks are measured in terms of length, width, and height as well as volume. The volume of a backpack is measured in liters and you’ll often see larger backpacks being designated like 50L or Osprey Atmos 65L. The “L” stands for liters and is the total capacity of the backpack. Often backpacks have top pockets which are 5-10 liters of the total capacity and some have detachable day packs of around 10 liters. You can use these measurements to get a good idea of how big a given backpack will be. Some backpacks distribute their capacity vertically while others stick out further from the back to make space. Depending on your height, you’ll want to be looking for a backpack that doesn’t tower over your head and is comfortable when full.
RTWers will want to look for packs that are anywhere from 40-65 liters. A good comfortable size is 65 liters and while you can go larger up to 80 (the next common size) all you’ll end up doing is filling the pack up with more stuff. That extra stuff will also mean more weight on your back, something many RTW travelers neglect to think about until they’re several miles into backpacking in Thailand.
- Many backpacks will also be slightly larger or smaller than advertised depending on how they are measured (sometimes smaller side pockets aren’t included).
- Most backpacks that are 50L and under will be small enough to be acceptable as carry-on luggage. You can find the current restrictions for every airline using Luggage Limits.
- A detachable daypack may come in handy, otherwise you’ll be carrying two bags. A daypack is useful to have for shorter hiking trips and excursions into cities and towns.
RTW Backpack Essentials
For RTW trips you’ve generally got a good idea of how long you’ll be traveling. If you don’t, it’s probably better to come up with a rough time table for how long you’ll be away from home before going out and spending money on a backpack. It’s also important to get a feel for what mode of transportation you’ll be using a lot during your RTW trip. You’ll most certainly be flying if you, like most people, book an RTW ticket. Aside from airplanes, if long bus or car rides are going to feature prominently in your plans it’s advisable to look for a pack that will fit well into those environments.
Look for the smaller backpacks out of the ones in your list. You’ll inevitable fill up whatever size backpack you end up going with and you’ll thank yourself later when you get into places were local travel is frequent, trunks are small, and buses are crowded. Smaller backpacks also tend not to draw as much attention to themselves or you.
Durable – Go for a backpack that’s reliable and durable because your pack will take a beating on your RTW trip and on most trips after than as well. Get information from online reviews, asking other travelers, and by actually handling the backpack even if you are planning on purchasing a backpack online.
Top and Front Loading - Many backpacks are top loading to maximize the space they have but it’s a real pain to get anything quickly out of a backpack that is top loading only. When looking for backpacks it’s a good idea to get on that is both top and front loading, which means it has access from the top and front (or side in some cases).
Look - Of course you should buy something you like the looks of, provided it gives you the functionality and features you need. We’d suggest getting a backpack that also isn’t too bright or unusual looking as the older and dirtier they look the less attractive they’ll be to others who might find them interesting or tempting.
Good RTW Backpacks To Consider
These are just some good, reliable, and versatile backpacks to consider for your RTW trip. You can also take a look at our Recommended RTW Backpacks page.
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