Backpacks: Your most important purchase
Remember this: your backpack is your home while traveling abroad. It may seem funny now, but one week into a two-month excursion, you hope you don't have an urge to toss that zippered piece of junk you bought into the Rhine River.

Probably the most important step in choosing a backpack is considering your own needs and interests. Sure, the "zipporific 5.0" model may have enough room for your hairdryer and collection of Stevenson novels to take, but is that necessary? The given rule is to take half of what you want abroad. Don't believe me? Halfway into your trip as you climb another flight of stairs to that hostel room "with a view" you will thank me.

Secondly, consider the type of frame for your backpack . The majority of backpackers use internal frames (Eagle Creek, Jansport, Gregory) because they are easier to maneuver, cheaper, and just seem to look better than backpacks with external metal frames. But because external frames are designed to keep your pack from your back, it is good alternative on long hiking tours to avoid a sweaty back.

When choosing a pack, a good salesperson will show those backpacks that transfer most of the weight of the bag from your shoulders to your hips by a belt. Most models have this and some even come with buckles at the chest area. In addition, be sure to see the backpack at its maximum capacity. Imagine having to stuff everything for the length of your trip in that space. Finally, look for technical aspects like storage placement, easy-to-get-to compartments, and extra hooks and such that can be used for carrying extras. Some companies like Eagle Creek and Jansport have backpacks with a smaller backpack that can be detached for day tours.

Major backpack retailers in California are Sport Chalet, REI, and Adventure 16.