All About the Different Types of Backpacks

Backpacks are a great way to carry all your essentials in one convenient place. Backpacks evenly distribute weight between your two shoulders. As such, you can wear a backpack for a long time without feeling sore or fatigued. Backpacks are a wise choice for a wide range of activities, including a day spent at school or a day spent hiking in a national park.

With so many backpacks on the market, it can be difficult to identify the right size and style for your needs. Plus, different backpacks have different features, so you must think about the design elements that are most important to you. Luckily, we’ve done most of the legwork for you. Learn all about the different types of backpacks available in our guide below and find the perfect option for your lifestyle.

Daypack

A daypack is a basic backpack designed for everyday use. You most likely already have some form of daypack in your possession, whether you use it for school, work, or going to the gym. Since they’re so versatile, daypacks are arguably the most popular type of backpack.

A standard daypack includes a front-loading main compartment and some sort of smaller front pocket. It also has a pair of shoulder straps and a grab handle on the top of the bag. Daypacks don’t have many features and they don’t vary drastically in size.

In terms of disadvantages, a daypack doesn’t retain its shape if you don’t pack it to the brim. In addition, the padding on the shoulder straps is typically quite minimal and the backside doesn’t have any ventilation. Daypacks are often not waterproof, so that’s something to keep in mind if you live in a particularly rainy or humid climate. However, a daypack is a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable, versatile option you can use throughout your daily life.

Laptop Backpack

A laptop backpack is the perfect option if you need an affordable way to carry your laptop wherever you go. These tech-friendly packs have a dedicated, padded compartment that keeps your laptop safe and secure. They also have several other pockets you can use to organize items such as chargers, cables, headphones, notebooks, and anything else you may need throughout the day.

Most laptop backpacks have a slightly smaller main compartment than daypacks. Since many professionals carry their laptops to and from work, these backpacks typically have nicely padded straps and back panels for easy carrying. Laptop backpacks often have a sleek, minimalistic design and retain their shape even when they’re not full.

Tactical Backpack

A tactical backpack is ideal if you love to hunt, camp, hike, or participate in any other type of outdoor activity. These packs are durable, come in practical designs, and fall within a moderate price range. Plus, they have various compartments to keep you organized as you’ll likely need a lot of equipment when you’re spending long periods outside.

Many enjoy using a tactical backpack due to their rugged, signature look. These packs are very comfortable to wear and are often waterproof since they must go wherever you go during your excursion. The well-organized design should provide you with plenty of room to store your essentials, even if you opt for a mini tactical bag.

However, a tactical backpack is often smaller in size, slightly heavier, and perhaps not as comfortable compared to regular hiking backpacks. However, this option is still incredibly practical, whether you’re embarking on a long hike or preparing for a day of hunting.

Duffle Backpack

As the name suggests, a duffle backpack is essentially a regular duffle bag with two additional straps on the backside. A duffle backpack is ideal if you’re planning a quick weekend trip and need more space than a standard-size backpack but don’t want to lug around a suitcase. A duffle backpack also offers more room than a classic pack if you need to bring a lot of items to the gym or sports practice.

Duffle backpacks include one large main compartment, sometimes with a zippered or slip pocket on the inside, but usually have less organization than other types of backpacks. Since a duffle backpack doesn’t have many nooks and crannies, you can easily pack and unpack a duffle backpack and keep all your items in plain sight.

Although carrying a duffle bag on your back is a great hands-free option, you can also invest in a high-quality tactical duffle bag with a padded top handle and shoulder straps. No matter how you transport the bag, you’ll enjoy the large capacity and highly functional design. With a duffle bag, you won’t worry about lack of space.

Carry-On Backpack

A listicle all about the different types of backpacks wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a travel-focused option. A carry-on backpack is a nice choice for frequent travelers who don’t want or need to use a suitcase. Designed to fit perfectly in an airplane’s overhead compartment, you won’t need to worry about exceeding the TSA’s size requirements before you jet off.

Since they’re lighter than a carry-on suitcase, but offer ample space and storage, a carry-on backpack is the best of both worlds. Carry-on backpacks often include a laptop sleeve to keep your electronics protected. Since designers and manufacturers made these bags for traveling, you can expect durability and a comfortable back panel and shoulder straps.

Framed Hiking Backpack

Due to the built-in support, a framed hiking backpack is a large backpack that can stand upright even when it’s completely empty. The lightweight aluminum frame offers better stability as you hike. Since it can stand up on its own, you can easily pack and unpack your belongings while you’re on the go. Plus, when you’re navigating uneven terrain, wearing a supportive backpack makes life much easier.

Keep in mind that framed hiking backpacks are heavier than their frameless counterparts, so you must consider your options before your next adventure. However, you can’t go wrong with a framed pack if stability is a top priority.

At WOLFpak, we offer durable, high-quality backpacks, whether you’re heading to the gym or setting off on a fun outdoor adventure. Designed with functionality in mind, you can easily find the perfect way to carry your belongings no matter where life takes you. Browse our extensive selection of backpacks, tote bags, duffle bags, and more today!