Rolling Backpacks - how to choose the right one for travel

If the heavy luggage you have in your backpack is becoming problematic to your back (or you just can’t be bothered to carry it when you don’t have to), then dragging it behind you in a rolling backpack might be the solution. Rolling Backpacks as its name suggests is a backpack that comes with wheels and a long top handle that allows you to pull them along when it’s convenient to do so just like wheeled suitcases. They can also be carried on the back when rolling is either not necessary or not possible. There are many different types of Rolling Backpacks available in the market today, you therefore need to be well informed on the important details to look for so you choose the best one available and more importantly the one that suits your needs. Here are the most important details you should consider.

Durable and Smooth Rolling Wheels.

The wheel quality is one important detail of a Rolling Backpack you cannot afford to overlook. Jamming or easily breaking wheels can be very disheartening especially while on a trip. The wheels therefore need to be sturdy enough to withstand any load to be carried in the backpack and also roll easily without jamming to increase efficiency. Size is also important. In my opinion bigger is better as it makes it easier when pulling the backpack over cobbled streets or grass.

Strong Side and Top Handles.

The handle should also be sturdy enough to avoid breaking during pulling. More to that, the top handle should be long enough to facilitate easy handling without stooping and bumping into the back of your ankles. This also reduces instances of tripping when rolling.

Shoulder and Waist Straps.

There are certain times when pulling a Rolling Backpack is not the best option, for instance when going up or downstairs. Here you should carry it on fully on your back for full support. This means you want the backpack to have wide and padded straps to avoid them from digging into the shoulders. The backpack also needs to have two shoulder straps so that its weight is evenly distributed on the body as opposed to the ones having only one strap running across the body from the shoulder to the waist area. Other additional features that rolling backpacks would ideally have is a padded back and waist strap to increase comfort during times when you are carrying it on your back.

Choose darker Colors

Since a Rolling Backpack will be close to the ground during rolling it’s bound to become dusty, muddy and stained more easily. Darker colors will be in a position to hide the stains and dirt more than lighter colors.

Durable and Water Proof material is essential.

Most backpacks are woven with synthetic materials like polyester which increase their durability and its ability to withstand wear and tear. The material should also be waterproof/ shower proof since you never know when you’ll get stuck in the rain. If it does not already come with one, investing in a quality backpack cover will keep it dry and protect it when in the bottom of a bus, coach or plane.

Zippers

The zippers need to be strong, glide easily and lockable for security. You should also consider the loading points of the backpack for easy access and offloading without items getting misplaced inside. In this instance I prefer front loading Rolling Backpacks, whereas others prefer top loading, this is generally a personal preference.

Here is Travel Gear For Men Top 3 Wheeled Backpacks on market today.