A backpack (also called rucksack, knapsack, packsack, pack) is, in its simplest form, a cloth sack carried on one’s back and secured with two straps that go over the shoulders, but there can be exceptions. Lightweight types of backpacks are sometimes worn on only one shoulder strap.

Backpacks are often preferred to handbags for carrying heavy loads or carrying any sort of equipment, because of the limited capacity to carry heavy weights for long periods of time in the hands. Large backpacks, used to carry loads over 10 kg (22 lbs), usually offload the largest part (up to about 90%) of their weight onto padded hip belts, leaving the shoulder straps mainly for stabilising the load. This improves the potential to carry heavy loads, as the hips are stronger than the shoulders, and also increases agility and balance, since the load rides nearer the wearer’s own centre of mass.

In ancient times, the backpack was used as a means to carry the hunter’s larger game and other types of prey as a way of easier transport. In the cases of larger hunts, the hunters would dismember their prey and distribute the pieces of the animal around, each one packing the meat into many wrappings and then into bags which they placed on to their backs. The bag itself was made up of different animal hide and skin (depending on what sorts of animals were in the area) and sewn together by the intestines of said animals, which were woven together tightly to make a sturdy thread-like material.

By far, the most popular time of the year for backpacks is Back To School. That’s because school backpacks are the most common type of school bag among school kids and college students alike. For versatility and value, you can’t go wrong with a classic pack like the JanSport SuperBreak which continues to be a top-rated best-seller year after year. Carrying a laptop across campus? Choose a laptop backpack which has a dedicated compartment designed to keep your device secure and protected. Be sure to use our Laptop Bag Finder (found at the top left of every laptop bag page) to ensure your specific laptop model fits. Wheeled backpacks are also a great choice for students and even professionals who want to haul heavy loads without causing back strain.

While backpacks for school are a popular category in the fall, there are other types of backpacks in demand year-round. Hiking backpacks and backpacking packs are the only choice for carrying your gear on the trail regardless if you’re on a casual day hike or a serious backcountry expedition. Similarly, hydration backpacks from brands like CamelBak are ideal for staying hydrated outdoors on hikes, runs, and bike rides. There are even winter hydration backpacks that are insulated to keep water from freezing in cold temperatures. Finally, travel backpacks offer storage for travel essentials plus handy features that help keep travelers on the move like wheels and detachable daypacks. They remain a popular style carried by students abroad and the savvy jet-set crowd.

Backpack design has changed greatly over the last two decades. Enhanced body mapping technology, hip belt padding, ergonomic shoulder straps and lightweight load bearing suspension designs have paved the way for greater comfort on the trail. Whether you’re on an expedition carrying a 70 liter load, or mountain biking with a hydration pack, you’ll appreciate the benefits of the new era of backpack design and comfort.

New ultra-light fabrics on school backpacks, baby backpacks, and mountaineering packs lighten the load while supplying the same carrying capacity as their earlier counterparts-all in greater comfort.

Aside from the many choices of backpacks, sports gear can easily be carried in bags. Skate gear, soccer gear and tennis gear can all be carried with comfort with shoulder straps that are built for all day comfort. We stock bags and packs for all women’s, men’s, boy’s and girl’s sports endeavors. Look for sale items that come cheap if the season is right.