Buy a Backpack: Function Meets Comfort
A backpack is the ideal combination of carrying comfort, functionality and design variety – for everyday life as well as travel or working life. Thanks to their ergonomic shape, backpacks take the strain off your back and let you carry things hands-free. Models differ not only in capacity or materials, but also in how you access the main compartment: top loaders open from the top for classic access. Front loaders offer a practical front opening, while back loaders with rear access are especially suited to carrying valuables securely. Depending on the intended use, extra features also vary: outdoor backpacks feature water-resistant materials and a ventilated carry system. Sporty variants come with separate compartments for shoes or bottles, and business backpacks score with a padded laptop compartment, USB port or trolley strap. A laptop backpack with an integrated power bank is especially practical for a mobile everyday life. If you want to buy a backpack online, you'll find a huge choice of functional and stylish models for every need.
Choosing the Right Backpack for Women and Men
Whether an elegant women's leather backpack for an urban lifestyle or a functional men's backpack in black for work and leisure: choosing the right model always depends on personal preferences and the intended use. Leather impresses with its durability, natural feel and refined look, while materials like canvas or nylon are lightweight yet hard-wearing – ideal for daily use. Black backpacks are especially popular, as they prove to be a stylish all-rounder for any occasion. Modern rolltop backpacks offer more flexibility, letting you variably expand the capacity – practical for spontaneous extra items. Multifunctional models with a crossbody function and stowable straps offer extra carrying comfort and can also be worn on one side when needed. If you carry tech and gadgets, look for a padded back system and wide, ergonomically shaped straps to take the strain off your back and shoulders.
Backpacks for Leisure, Trekking and Adventure
A reliable backpack for longer outings, trekking tours or outdoor adventures needs to deliver significantly more than a model for city use. Trekking backpacks in particular stand out with a sophisticated carry system, sturdy hip belts and even weight distribution. The main weight should sit as close to the back as possible to take the ideal strain off your body – this not only protects muscles and joints but also increases carrying comfort over many hours. Outer compartments, elastic side pockets or loops for trekking poles allow structured organisation and quick access to important items. As a rule of thumb, a backpack shouldn't carry more than 25 percent of your own body weight. Travel backpacks follow similar principles but also feature a ¾ opening like a suitcase, practical side carrying handles and water-resistant materials. If you're looking for maximum freedom of movement while travelling, a functional travel backpack is the perfect choice.
Materials and Designs for Different Needs
Backpacks are now available in a huge variety of materials, colours and finishes. Alongside classic models in polyester or nylon, you'll find variants in canvas, leather or technical fabrics for different uses. Depending on the material, qualities like low weight, durability or a particular look take centre stage. This makes it easy to find the right model for everyday life, work, travel or leisure.
There's also plenty of choice when it comes to design and features. The range spans from understated business backpacks to sporty leisure models and modern rolltop backpacks, covering a wide variety of needs. Extra features like laptop compartments, organiser systems, water-resistant surfaces or flexible expansion options provide great comfort in daily use. This lets you combine functionality and personal style perfectly.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Backpacks
What should I look for when buying a backpack?
Pay attention to the capacity you need, a compartment system suited to your intended use (e.g. laptop compartment, organiser, hydration system), a robust, water-resistant material, and ergonomic strap padding and back ventilation. The empty weight of the backpack also matters if you use it often.
What's the difference between a business backpack and a leisure backpack?
Business backpacks offer a padded laptop compartment, a tidy, understated design and often extra organiser compartments for documents or tablets. Leisure backpacks are cut more relaxed, usually made from more rugged or sportier material, and designed more for everyday life, outings or travel than for the office.
Are there differences between women's and men's backpacks, or can they be used unisex?
Many models are cut unisex and can be worn flexibly. Backpacks designed specifically for women often have narrower strap spacing and shorter back lengths, while men's models usually have wider straps and longer back sections. In the end, the right back length matters more than gender.
How do I pack a backpack correctly?
Heavy items belong close to your back and centred at shoulder-blade height, with lighter items towards the outside and bottom. It's best to store frequently needed items in outer pockets or top compartments so they're quickly at hand. This keeps the backpack balanced and comfortable to carry.
Which backpack is suitable for travelling?
For travel, backpacks with 30–45 litres of capacity are a good fit, with a large main compartment with a front opening for easier packing, plus separate compartments for clothing and electronics. If you travel a lot, you'll also benefit from lockable zips and robust material.
Can I take a backpack as hand luggage on a plane?
Yes, as long as the dimensions meet the respective airline's hand luggage rules – usually a maximum of 55 × 40 × 20 cm. Since regulations vary by airline, we recommend checking the current rules before your flight.
What backpack size is right for hiking?
20–30 litres is enough for day tours, while 30–50 litres suits multi-day hikes with overnight stays. For multi-day trekking tours with your own equipment like a tent and sleeping bag, 50 litres or more can also make sense.
Is a backpack rain cover worthwhile?
Yes, especially for backpacks without a waterproof outer material. A rain cover reliably protects the contents and material from moisture and extends the backpack's lifespan, especially when hiking, commuting or travelling.
What are backpack-bags?
Backpack-bags are 2-in-1 models that combine a handbag and a backpack – also known as totepacks or backpack handbags. Thanks to adjustable straps, they can be carried flexibly by hand, over the shoulder or on the back, adapting to different occasions.