We’ve all been there. Getting ready for a trip, sitting with our backpack, shoving stuff in more than it can hold, hoping it somehow fits, and then panicking when it doesn’t.
Packing a backpack for travel doesn’t have to be that hard, and you certainly don’t need another huge suitcase for it. In fact, a good backpack should be able to hold all your essentials alone.
Whether you’re headed out for a weekend trip or some adventure with your friends, here’s how to pack your backpack properly like a seasoned traveler.
Get the Right Backpack
Before we talk about how to pack, let’s focus on what you’re packing in. The kind of backpack that you choose makes a huge difference.
It’s best to look for travel-specific or travel-friendly backpacks (背囊) that have multiple pockets. These pockets can serve as different segments for your essentials and make it easier to find them without unpacking everything.
Choose a bag that has a comfortable design, is easy to carry on your back and shoulders, and is made of durable materials.
Pack with Purpose
You don’t have to take everything and fit it in. Focus on things that you will actually need.
Only pack the things that you love and actually use, and leave the rest. What helps is making a checklist of all your essentials before you even start packing. The list could include:
- A few tops and bottoms. Bonus points if the tops can be layered.
- One outerwear, like a jacket, depending on the weather.
- One pair of walking shoes.
- Underwear and socks.
- Toiletries, preferably travel size.
- Power bank and cables.
- Documents, like your ID and passport.
Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are great for organizing and fitting your clothing in a backpack. They keep things from getting mixed up or tangled in other stuff.
Use one cube each for:
- Clothes
- Underwear and socks
- Tech and accessories
If you want more organization or are feeling a little fancy, get the cubes in different colors and color-code each item group. It will make finding things much easier and faster.
Distribute the Weight Evenly
Carrying your backpack shouldn’t feel like a punishment. If you’re wearing both straps, and one side feels heavier than the other, it can lead to shoulder and back problems.
Make sure to keep the heavy stuff like shoes and toiletries close to the back, medium stuff like clothes and towels in the middle or the bottom, and light stuff like snacks and documents on the top or in outer pockets of your bag.
That structure keeps your center of gravity balanced, and saves your shoulders and back from pain – especially if you’ll be walking a lot.
Keep the Essentials Accessible
Imagine being stuck in a line, and your ticket or boarding pass is buried under a pile of clothes and snacks.
Make sure to keep these things within easy reach:
- Your passport and ID
- Wallet
- Phone
- Hand sanitizer or wipes/tissues
- Water bottle
Use the front or side pockets on your backpack for these essentials. Some backpacks even come with hidden compartments for valuables.
