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The Best Backpacks For First Time Travelers

Make the right choice and it’ll be a long time before you choose again.

beach backpack One good backpack can be the most important piece of luggage any traveler will ever own. | Shutterstock
By  Islands Staff Feb. 18, 2021

Backpacks are a first-time traveler's best friend: Roomy, versatile, leaves your hands free, and packed with useful features. Here's what to consider when shopping for your first-trip backpack.

Victorinox VX Sport Cadet Laptop Backpack
Durability should be the most important factor you consider, but don't forget about style. | Victorinox

Start with the overall space and how it's divided, as a backpack that makes your stuff easy to sort means less aggravation when you need a snack, book, or passport.

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The North Face Borealis Backpack
From your toothbrush to your laptop, keep your gear safe in something that was designed to take bumps. | The North Face

Check the comfort of the pack on your shoulders, and how breathable the back panels are, to ensure you're not miserable at the airport.

Briggs & Riley ZDX Cargo Backpack
People sometimes mistake terms like durable and rugged for bland and even ugly. That shouldn't be the case. | Briggs & Riley

Generally, you'll want a tough synthetic for your travel pack, such as nylon or polyester.

Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack
Knowing what you need before traveling will help you decide on the best option for your style. | Herschel

Pick a pack that comes in lots of unique colors and styles, which will make it easier to find if you have to check your bag or otherwise need to identify it.

Maxtop Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port
The ability to keep your batteries full is always a pleasant bonus. | Maxtop

Don't sleep on extra features such as built-in power packs, which can keep your phone topped up when you need it most.

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