The joy and freedom of “backpacking” aren’t simply reserved for trekking across foreign continents anymore. It’s for domestic business travel, too. And smooth business travel between and around destinations requires foresight and a reliable travel partner. Simplify the logistics of your travel itinerary by reducing the number of bags to carry and consolidating personal items into a safe, stylish, and secure travel backpack. Different travel backpacks are designed to meet different travel needs, however, concerns with storage, appearance, compactness, size, and accessories will be on the mind of any business traveler looking to join the backpack revolution.
Appearance
We get it–you’re attached to your briefcase. It’s a classic look. But a light and compact backpack can be just as stylish and even more functional. Multiple handles allow you to carry your backpack like a suitcase, a briefcase, or slung over your back. High-quality water- and damage-resistant backpacks come in many appealing materials including leather, nylon, cotton, and polyester. Some brands offer eco-friendly alternatives, including vegan leather. Well-placed slip pockets can add inconspicuous storage space so you don’t look like a walking coat closet with all those zippers. If you travel frequently, you may want to consider materials that are resistant to stains and machine washable.
As far as colors go, backpacks come in a variety of styles that can fit any wardrobe. Purchase a backpack that matches both warm and cool weather clothing or get a different backpack for each season. Briefcases go with a limited number of business fashion choices whereas backpacks can be easily matched to different professional looks.
Design and Storage
While it’s great to have an attractive backpack, the true value is functionality. Your travel pack has to fit a lot without becoming too bulky, lest it is uncomfortable to wear, impossible to stow, and difficult to organize. High-quality business travel backpacks have a mix of secure zip-up and button pockets sized to secure your devices and documents. Keep your wallet and passport in a hidden compartment that is easy to find when you need it while staying invisible to thieves. Also keep important items like beverages, medications, and power cords within reach at all times with dedicated pockets.
The volume of the main pocket shouldn’t surpass the TSA standard of 35 liters. At that size, you can carry a change of clothes for those multiple-layover trips or flight delays. It should pack slim enough that it easily fits under your airline seat or in the plane’s carry-on compartment. Flat, sturdy bottoms on backpacks make them easy to place on the ground or on top of carry on luggage as you navigate between airport terminals.
Accessories and Features
While you want to make sure your personal items are on hand at all times, your laptop is what you really need to protect. Aim for a backpack that secures and protects your laptop while leaving plenty of room for accessories. External and internal padding should protect your device in the event of an impact or sudden shifting. Backpacks should be designed to protect laptops of many different shapes, sizes, and sensitivities to damage. Padding can be made of different materials including silicone and foam. Padding should be durable, eco-friendly, and compact, while still offering protection.
If you plan on taking your backpack just about everywhere with you, consider features that allow you to carry it how you want. Backpacks with ergonomic straps help distribute weight for safe and comfortable carrying. Dual straps should be just one way to haul your pack that includes handles and tote options. If you’re taller, you may want to consider how long of a tote handle you’ll need.
