Backpack - Research

Research your options and needs before buying a Backpack

As early as the 1880s, backcountry workers, explorers, and even trekkers were looking for a way to carry gear in an efficient and comfortable manner. Throughout the 1900s, the backpack evolved to what it is today, a frame-supported device.

However, when you are actually buying a backpack the number of different options may be confusing and it can be difficult to decide which is your best buy. The Buyz123 three step guide - Research, Evaluation, Purchase - is designed to assist you in this buying process.

The Research step firstly involves investigating essential features of backpacks available on the market, and secondly identifying your actual needs in a backpack.

In the Evaluation step you focus on how well the different features of individual products meet your needs, and then how well the most suitable backpacks compare in detail, one to another.

Finally, in the Purchase step, the issues considered are: what to look for when actually buying the product, what questions to ask and what information you should seek on warranty, customer service, and after-sales support.

As you work though the Buyz123 purchase strategy you will clarify your thoughts about your intended purchase, confidently compare products one to another, and then purchase a backpack that really does meet your needs.

Step 1: Research

In order to end up with the backpack best suited to your needs, you have to clearly understand what you are looking for and what options are available to you. This is done by researching in two areas.

Firstly, you research the market to find out what kinds of backpacks are available, familiarizing yourself with the different features, styles and price ranges etc. Secondly, you examine your own unique requirements in a backpack.

Research the market: Backpack essentials

Camping and hiking backpacks come in a variety of shapes and sizes and should be custom fit to the size of the individual who will be carry the unit. Once very basic, backpacks have reached the technology age and now provide the outdoor enthusiast an advanced system to carry some of the comforts of home.

The first part of the research step is to investigate just what's available in the backpack market. The range of options can seem overwhelming, but you can make a good start by understanding the following major features:

Type: Backpacks can be divided into two broad categories, those with an external frame or an internal frame. Internal frame backpacks are convenient on heavily wooded trails, whereas external frame backpacks allow for heavier loads to be carried over longer periods in relative comfort.

Subtypes: There are other distinctions amongst backpacks, with descriptions usually alluding to their intended use or how they are carried, including waist, hip, fanny and lumbar packs, also day or expedition packs, hydration packs and sport specific packs.

Size: Backpack sizes may refer to physical dimensions (of either the pack or the torso length of the person it is suited for) or the carrying capacity. Size selection depends on the size of the person carrying the pack and also the intended load.

Cost: A budget, generic backpack will cost about one fifth of the price of a name-brand backpack.

Research your needs: Questions to ask yourself

Now it's time to determine what your requirements are in a backpack. For example, do you just want a convenient way to carry your stuff when you go shopping, or are you going on a four day hiking trip through the woods?

You can start this process by considering the following questions - as well as any others you think of yourself - and recording your answers.

Have I used a backpack before?
	If you have used a backpack, work out what you did or didn't like about the backpack. You may be looking for one exactly like it, hoping to upgrade, or even trying to avoid any particular features that you found inconvenient.

What do I want a backpack for?
	Perhaps you lead tour expeditions, or you are a novice hiker and camper.

What sort of backpacking will I be doing?
	Backpacks are designed for different uses. You may be venturing out for two or three days or even taking a 30 day camping and trekking trip.

How much can I carry?
	Try to calculate the weight of the gear you will be carrying. Keep in mind the length of time you are going for and in what season you will be travelling.

How much do I want to spend?
	Backpacks are available in a range of budgets; price increases with quality and additional features

Understanding your needs is the key to a successful purchase and you can revisit your list of needs at any time during the buying process.

Once you complete this Research step, having informed yourself about the essentials of backpacks and identified your needs, you are ready to move on to the next step: Evaluation.


Video Links

Jansport Tribal Backpack - User Review A mid-sized three compartment backpack with dedicated MP3 player component. (1m 32s)

Jansport Wasabi Backpack - User Review The JanSport Wasabi, a light weight mid-sized entry level backpack. (1m 55s)

Jansport Airlift Backpack - User Review The Jansport Airlift Backpack is so named for its large cushioned straps that are designed to soften a heavy load. (1m 15s)

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