Hi,
I'm looking for a backpack for travel.
I decided to get a wheeled backpack as I do a lot of walking and having the option of pulling the bag would be helpful when I get a sore back.
Is there any good deals at the moment?
Getting to my main question, is there any backpacks made in Australia or Europe etc? I want something a bit better and longer lasting.
Thanks,
*doesn't need to be wheeled.
Osprey is one of the premium Euro brands for wheeled backpacks. Models to look for: Sojourn, Meridian. They are becoming available here more, mainly online. Not necessarily bargainy though.
Where are they made in Europe? I thought they were made in Vietnam.
Also I want one that can fit in carry on.
Actually, it looks like they are an American brand. I guess like everything, they are made in Asia.
a sore back from carrying a pack - do you use the waist strap properly?
My old pack waist strap broke so no.
But I do wear them for very long so even with a strap I'll probably start getting a sore back/shoulder.
A backpack with a good waist strap won't give you back pain. All the weight should be on your hips - thanks to the waist band. The shoulder straps are mostly there to keep the back pack against you, they shouldn't be taking the weight.
I used to have a berghaus backpack. It was fantastic for the waist strap, compartments, waterproofing and quality. Could walk with a 25kg load all day.
Wheeled backpacks are very average for actual carrying. I'd strongly recommend a decent backpack with a waist strap. And using the waist strap properly. It's was a game changer when I was shown how to use a pack & waist strap properly as a teenager.
You'd be checking it in? Wheeled bags are quite heavy. 10kg is common overseas but 7kg in Australia and around Asia.
How far are you walking? We slum it quite a bit (public transport, little taxi) and rarely end up walking more than 1-2km with loaded bags.
Are you travelling in Europe? Get a backpack with proper waist strap
I might just get a normal backpack then.
Is there much brands made in Europe etc?
Wheeled Backpack
Caribee Fast track
Caribee Skymaster
Osprey Meridian
I've owned a Fast Track for years, been to over 20 countries and still going strong.
Cons most wheeled backpacks are crap to put on the back for a long period of time because of the frame.