Comments on: Ultralight Packable Backpacks: Essential Travel Accessories

By: Nora

Nora — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 18:31:57 +0000

In reply to K. Hi K, Fantastic tip for one bag travel! I have run into this exact challenge; traveling with one bag that had to be checked. Luckily I had my packable backpack and I took out the things I needed to carry on the plane with me. I didn't have it all pre-packed though.

By: K

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 14:39:05 +0000

For the one-bag travel scenario,
Instead of packing your “packable” backpack empty, use it like a packing cube in your carry-on. Pack it with the stuff you absolutely do not want to chance losing and what you would need to survive if the rest of your stuff didn’t make the trip. That way if you suddenly find yourself in a gate-check situation, you just open your carry-on, retrieve your pre-packed backpack and you’re good to go. No scrambling to make sure you have your toothbrush, change of underwear, meds, electronics, etc.

By: Nora

Nora — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 00:20:26 +0000

In reply to Connie. What a fantastic contribution, Connie - thank you! I'll have a closer look at the bag.

By: Connie

Connie — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 23:27:19 +0000

I used the Peak Gear foldable backpack during the last month traveling around France and England. It’s around 20L (16x12x6in) and weighs 7.65 oz (217g). Unlike the lighter packs on your list, it doesn’t get wrinkley and it’s comfortable for the whole day. It has 2 water bottle pockets so I used the second one for my sunglasses case or my umbrella, depending on the weather. It’s strong enough for a bottle of wine and groceries in addition to whatever else I was carrying. I think it looks nicer than the ones by backpacking/hiking companies and didn’t make me feel like I stood out in Paris or London. There is an internal pocket meant for a laptop or folders, but I found that by placing my wallet in that pocket, it was pretty much invisible when I opened the backpack, so that felt more secure.

In addition to being my day pack for adventures, it was a lifesaver for carrying my groceries and other purchases from town to town on trains and buses. I ended up checking my carry on bag when I returned home and it was perfect to use as my personal item for a few extra items I picked up along the way. I will be using this around town now that I’m home and not reserving it for travel.

By: Nora

Nora — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 19:57:15 +0000

In reply to K.

Great question!
I like Osprey – here are a few options, depending on how big a sling you need:
This one: https://alnk.to/6bTzZlo
Or this one: https://alnk.to/9bssFcQ
Or a bit less ultralight but good: https://alnk.to/gzU7plL

By: K

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 14:21:34 +0000

Hi,

Do you have any recommendations for a lightweight, packable sling style day pack?

I prefer something that can be worn in front, is big enough to stuff a jacket or coat in, has a pocket for a 2 in 1 tablet computer and secure interior pockets for phone, money, keys etc. Plus room for all the other stuff one carries around.

Thanks.

By: Nora

Nora — Sat, 12 Aug 2023 11:12:48 +0000

In reply to Aj.

Thanks for the suggestion, AJ! I do mention vacuum bags a bit in this article: https://www.theprofessionalhobo.com/pro-packing-hacks-here-are-the-best-travel-accessories/

By: Aj

Aj — Sun, 06 Aug 2023 16:28:18 +0000

Nora, could you please do a review on best lightweight but sturdy checked in bags/duffels and vacuums bags for packing clothing/bulky compressible things.
Thanks
J

By: Nora

Nora — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:09:31 +0000

In reply to Debojyoti Dey Mazumder. Thanks for weighing in, Debojyoti!

By: Debojyoti Dey Mazumder

Debojyoti Dey Mazumder — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 13:12:13 +0000

I really enjoyed your blog post on ultralight packable backpacks. I’ve been traveling for many years, and I’ve always found that a good packable backpack is an essential travel accessory. It’s so convenient to have a small, lightweight backpack that you can pack into your luggage and then use for day trips, excursions, or even just carrying your essentials around town.

I’ve used a few different packable backpacks over the years, and I’ve found that the best ones are lightweight, durable, and have a few extra features like water bottle pockets and padded laptop compartments. I’m currently using the Eagle Creek Packable Backpack and I’m really happy with it. It’s small enough to fit in my carry-on luggage, but it’s big enough to fit everything I need for a day trip. It’s also made of durable materials that can withstand some wear and tear.