What size of backpack

BrainBut shared a link said Thu, Apr 21st 2016 at 8:10am ET

Its my first rtw trip and I have not got a clue what size backpack to take. Im going asia, oz, nz and south america over 8 months starting in September and just dont know what to buy and what to do about a day sack? Im going with my girlfriend so we can share a lot of things in both our bags to save space. It would be great if you have any ideas.

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carl669 said Thu, Apr 21st 2016 at 11:28am ET:

i have the kelty coyote 80 and find it to be a pretty nice pack. however, 8 months is a long time and you'll probably have to pack for a range of weather conditions, so it might be a bit small.

i'd suggest going to REI or a similar place and looking at the packs to see what size might work for you.

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PlacidPenguin said Thu, Apr 21st 2016 at 11:30am ET:

Oh Google search results.
You (almost) never fail to entertain me.

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fjp999 said Thu, Apr 21st 2016 at 1:21pm ET:

I thought that thewirecutter.com had done a review of travel backpacks but I can't find it... if you are not aware of The Wirecutter or The Sweethome - it is a modern day Consumer Reports - but free and (I haven't read CR in a decade or more so???) actually rate products that are not obsolete (as often times CR products were).

anyways... REI is a good place to start as they probably have many brands to look at and should have staff to help out with what you are looking for. As a cyclist I am crazy for Timbuk2 bags and they have a line specifically for TSA friendly travel.

I have carried nearly 100lbs of groceries on my back while cycling and not felt a thing. The bags are guaranteed for life... I have bags that are at least 5 years old and look brand new.

http://www.timbuk2.com/duffel-bags - signing up is a good idea as they always send out 35% off coupons... have shops in a number of cities and REI will have a few bags to look at.

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cercopithecoid said Thu, Apr 21st 2016 at 3:17pm ET:

I would choose your gear first and then the receptacle with the knowledge that you'll probably want some extra space once you've started traveling. I also wouldn't spend too much time trying to imagine every scenario you're likely to find yourselves in, you can always buy what you've forgotten once you're there. As for souvenirs, although the regulations may be complex, maybe you could periodically ship them to someone at home.

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