Luggage and packing stuff: Take it with you on a trip, pack it, or check it in when backpacking and traveling abroad?

What is an anti-theft bag?

• Anti-theft bags are designed just a bit smarter with the aim of making it more difficult for the thief and pickpocket to pull off a heist.
• These bags are often designed to be a bit smarter and sturdier than ordinary backpacks, shoulder bags, or handbags. Depending on the model, they feature, for example:
  • hidden zippers.
  • lockable compartments.
  • difficult-to-open zipper constructions.
  • reinforced shoulder straps with steel wire.
  • cut-resistant materials.
  • hidden compartments.
  • RFID protection against digital reading of cards and identity cards.
• The reinforced straps and panels make it harder to cut the bag open ('slash') or quickly pull it off someone.
• Increasingly, security bags contain compartments with RFID blocking technology to also prevent identity theft.
• Nowadays, anti-theft systems come in various forms such as:
  • daypacks.
  • shoulder bags, handbags.
  • waist bags.
  • laptop bags.
  • hand luggage.
  • camera bags.

What can you use an anti-theft bag for when traveling and backpacking?

• As a secure daypack in busy cities.
• As hand luggage during air travel.
• As a laptop bag for digital nomads or business trips.
• As a bag for valuables such as cameras, phones, and passports.
• As an extra secure bag at markets, festivals, or on public transport.
• As a practical bag for train, metro, and bus travel.
• Many travelers also use an anti-theft bag simply because the compartment layout is often organized and practical.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of an anti-theft bag?

Advantages of an anti-theft bag

• Makes quick theft more difficult.
• Often better protection for laptops and electronics.
• Hidden compartments provide extra organization.
• RFID compartments offer extra protection for cards.
• Often more sturdily built than standard bags.
• Handy in busy cities and on public transport.

Disadvantages of an anti-theft bag

• Usually heavier than regular bags.
• Often more expensive. Extra security sometimes makes quick access less convenient for yourself.
• Some models look very “touristy” or business-like.
• No bag completely prevents theft.
• An anti-theft bag remains primarily a tool. Alertness, handling valuables smartly, and traveling consciously remain at least as important.

When should you take an anti-theft bag with you on a trip or while backpacking?

• When you spend a lot of time in busy cities.
• When traveling with a lot of public transport.
• When you fly often or travel via large stations.
• When you carry expensive electronics or camera equipment.
• During festivals or events.
• When you choose a model that you also like to use at home or in daily life, you usually get the most out of your purchase.

Where can you buy an anti-theft bag locally when you are traveling?

• Anti-theft bags are mainly available in:
  • outdoor stores.
  • travel stores.
  • electronics and laptop bag stores.
  • larger luggage stores.
  • airports.
  • large shopping malls.
• In many backpacking destinations, you will also come across cheaper variants at markets or in tourist shopping areas, although quality and security sometimes vary considerably there.

What is a rain cover for a backpack?

• A rain cover is pulled over your backpack. There is an opening for the carrying system, so that you can still carry the backpack.
• A rain cover protects against rain, damage, but also against theft if you are walking in a busy city, for example.
• A rain cover is useful if you are going on a hike in wet areas, for example, but never protects your bag in its entirety during transport. The carrying straps remain unprotected.

What is a transport cover or flight bag for a backpack?

• A transport cover or flight bag protects your backpack against damage, for example, from the baggage belt at the airport or when you have to throw your bag on top of a minibus. In this case, the cover also protects against dust and sand, so that your backpack does not get dirty. The entire backpack can be put in the transport cover, via the opening at the top.
• Transport covers are often made of somewhat sturdier material and therefore somewhat heavier. They often break less quickly than the lighter rain covers.

What is the best size for a backpack rain cover? 

• The backpack rain cover must of course fit around your bag. Keep in mind that you may be taking a lot of souvenirs with you on your trip, which will make your bag bigger. The cover must still fit, but make sure the cover is not too big.
• A cover with a large opening fits over your bag more easily, especially if your bag is packed in a rather angular way.

What can you use a rain cover for when travelling and backpacking?

• A rain cover for your backpack is useful during hikes or walks in questionable weather.
• Use a rain cover on a scooter or motorbike (if your bag is on the back).
• On a plane or during rainy transfers, use your rain cover. Bag on the tarmac means a wet bag.
• Use a rain cover on a bus or train, especially if your bag has to go on the roof or in an open luggage compartment.
• A rain cover is used as an extra layer of cover when camping or as an improvised picnic blanket (if you are really desperate).

When do you take a rain cover or combination cover with you when travelling or backpacking?

• When travelling in a tropical climate, in unpredictable weather and during many outdoor activities or hikes bring a rain cover.
• When backpacking trips where your bag has to endure a lot. Actually, a rain cover is always useful.

Where can you buy or replace a rain cover in the world?

• Get a rain cover at outdoor shops and travel shops.
• Rain covers can often be found in backpacker hotspots.
• Sometimes you get a rain cover together with your backpack.

What are compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags?

• Compression bags are sturdy bags with straps or valves that you use to squeeze out the air, so that your clothing or sleeping bag takes up less space.
• Vacuum bags do the same, but with a valve or zipper that you use to suck out the air (with a pump, vacuum cleaner or by rolling by hand).
• Press bags are the old-fashioned no-nonsense versions: put the clothes in, roll them up, let the air out, done.
• Handy for those who have "more" with them than the space in their backpack or suitcase actually allows.
• Very useful for, for example, a sleeping bag or winter clothing that you won't need often during your trip but will carry with you the entire trip.

What are the options of the different kinds of the compression- vacuum- and press bags?

• Compression bag with straps – ideal for sleeping bags or bulky clothing.
• Manual vacuum bags – roll up, deflate: no pump required.
• Pump vacuum bags – for home use or long stays.
• Dry bags with purge valve – waterproof and compressible.
• Ziploc-style travel bags – light, cheap, surprisingly effective.

What can you use compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags for when traveling and backpacking?

• You can use compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags for clothing (especially thick things like sweaters, jackets or fleece).
• You can use compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags for your sleeping bag or sheet bag.
• To seperate and airtightwet or dirty laundry compression bags, vacuum bags or press bags are useful.
• You can use compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags as extra protection for documents, electronics or sensitive items. In case of emergency, the bags are also usable as a makeshift waterproof bag or seat cushion.

When do you take compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags with you on a trip or while backpacking?

• You can use compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags, when traveling with limited luggage space (e.g. with a small backpack or hand luggage).
• You can use compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags, when you have to move a lot (night buses, domestic flights, hikes).
• When traveling to cold areas where you take thick clothes, compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags are handy.
• When you want to be super organized, compression bags and vacuum bags are helping you to stay that way.
• Or use a compression- vacuum- or press bag, when your stuff just doesn't fit in your bag (anymore) and you need an emergency solution.

Where can you buy compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags in the world?

• You can buy compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags at outdoor stores and travel stores.
• Some large supermarkets and dollar stores sometimes also sell budget versions of compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags.
• Online, you can find compression bags, vacuum bags and press bags.

What is an expedition backpack, travel backpack, or trekking backpack?

• A trekking backpack is a backpack with a somewhat heavier and stiffer carrying system compared to other backpacks. This allows the load to be carried better on the hips, making the backpack suitable for heavier loads.
• A trekking backpack is also known as an expedition backpack, travel backpack, or backpack.
• These backpacks are specially designed for trips where you have to walk for extended periods with your full luggage.
• Most trekking backpacks feature:
  • a sturdy back system.
  • adjustable shoulder straps.
  • a wide hip belt.
  • compression straps.
  • multiple storage compartments.
  • attachment points for extra gear.
• Larger models are intended for longer trips, treks, or expeditions where you need to carry a lot of gear. Smaller models are also used for shorter backpacking trips or hiking holidays.
• Nowadays, there are also increasingly more lightweight trekking backpacks and ultralight backpacks on the market that are suitable for shorter treks, hikes, or climbing trips.
• These models are often designed with a more minimalist approach and save weight through:
  • lighter materials
  • fewer compartments
  • simpler frames
  • more compact carrying systems
• Usually, these backpacks do have a maximum weight limit for comfortable carrying. For example, many ultralight models are comfortable to carry up to about 12 to 16 kilos, after which carrying comfort decreases rapidly.
• When purchasing an ultralight backpack, it is therefore important that the rest of your equipment is also relatively lightweight. Consider, for example:
  • lightweight sleeping bags
  • compact tents
  • minimalist clothing
  • lightweight cooking gear
• As a result, an ultralight backpack usually works best within a complete lightweight or minimalist travel gear set.

What can you use an expedition backpack, travel backpack, or trekking backpack for when traveling and backpacking?

• As main luggage during backpacking trips.
• For trips where you walk a lot with your luggage. For trekking and hiking.
• For camping trips.
• For world travel.
• For transport in places where rolling suitcases are less practical.
• Thanks to the sturdy carrying system, a heavy backpack usually remains more comfortable to carry than a regular backpack or duffel bag.

When should you take a backpack on a trip?

• Trips involving a lot of walking and hiking where you have to carry your entire backpack: recommended.
• Trips with heavy loads that you want to carry on your back: recommended.
• Long backpacking trips: often one of the most practical choices.
• Trips involving frequent transport changes: often more convenient than a suitcase.
• Trips to mountainous, remote, or less accessible areas.
• For short vacations or city trips, a smaller backpack, duffel bag, or rolling suitcase can sometimes be more practical.

What should you look for when choosing a trekking backpack?

• Important differences between trekking backpacks often lie in:
  • capacity in liters.
  • fit.
  • weight.
  • ventilation of the back system.
  • sturdiness of the frame.
  • number of compartments.
  • rain protection.
  • accessibility of the contents.
• For longer trips, carrying comfort is often more important than extra compartments or technical features.
• A well-fitting hip belt and back length usually make a big difference during long travel or hiking days.

Where can you buy a trekking backpack or expedition backpack locally?

• Trekking backpacks are available worldwide:
  • in outdoor shops.
  • backpack shops.
  • large second-hand shops in popular backpacking destinations.
  • large travel stores.
  • online, second-hand, or new.
• Because carrying comfort and fit are very important, many travelers prefer to buy their backpack before departure so they can try it on and test it extensively.

How is your backpack insured through your travel insurance, and how does it work if you suffer damage?

• Backpacks and the contents of your backpack are covered by most travel insurance policies.
• Even if your backpack did not travel with you on the plane, you can often receive compensation for the costs you incurred as a result.
• The exact coverage varies per insurance policy and often depends on:
  • the maximum baggage coverage.
  • the value of the contents.
  • how old the backpack is.
  • whether there was negligence or insufficient security.
• In the event of damage, loss, or theft, insurers usually request:
  • proof of purchase.
  • a claim form.
  • a police report in the event of theft.
  • documents from the airline in the event of delayed baggage.
• For expensive trekking backpacks or valuable contents, it may be useful to carefully review the terms and conditions of your travel insurance beforehand.

What are lashing straps and tie-down straps?

• Lashing straps (also known as compression straps, lash straps) are narrow straps with a buckle or clip, with which you attach items to each other or to your bag.
• Tie-down straps are the wider, stronger brother: often with a metal buckle or click buckle, and intended for serious attachment jobs (such as tying a bag to a jeep or boat).

What types of lashing straps are there?

• Standard lashing strap with buckle, light, simple, indispensable.
• Lashing strap with metal closure, super strong, suitable for transport.
• Elastic straps (bungee cord), handy for quick attachment.
• Quick-release fasteners or Velcro straps, ideal for daypacks or bicycles.
• DIY lashing strap with paracord or rope.

What can you use lashing straps and tie-down straps for when traveling and backpacking?

• With lashing straps or straps you can attach all sorts of things to your backpack. Fine tie straps are easily adjustable in length or have a clip on them to prevent slipping (also often called a lashing strap).
• Use lashing straps to attach: sleeping bags, tents, mats to your bag or loose items in or on a transport cover or bags together (two check-in bags become one!)
• As an emergency solution for: broken zipper, broken bag strap and your sense of order.
• You can also use lashing straps to pull your luggage together to make it smaller.

When do you take tie straps and lashing straps with you on a trip or while backpacking?

• Active travel: always take lashing straps with you; to keep your things together as planned or in an emergency if something breaks
• World travel or long trip: worth considering; tie straps can be a solution, especially when your suitcase or backpack turns out to be smaller than necessary at times

Where can you also buy tie straps or lashing straps locally in the world?

• Lashing staps are available at outdoor shops, camping shops, hardware stores.
• Find lashing straps at backpacker shops or markets in larger cities. Or in a DIY store as “moving supplies with a bonus function”.

What are packing bags, organizer bags, and dry bags?

• Packing bags, organizers, and dry bags are the superheroes of every well-prepared traveler. They save time, frustration, and wetness, and turn your backpack into a sort of storage cabinet.
• Packing bags (or packing cubes) are lightweight bags or blocks that allow you to neatly divide your luggage (underwear here, shirts there, snacks everywhere).
• Organizer bags are a bit more luxurious: sometimes with compartments, mesh windows, compression zippers, or labels for the really organized traveler/control freak.
• Dry bags are made of waterproof material (often with roll closure) and protect your belongings from rain, river crossings, boat trips, and spilled water and shampoo bottles.

What can you use packing bags, organizer bags, and dry bags for when traveling and backpacking?

• Organizing the chaos, protecting, and preventing frustration and losing your mind.
• Use a mix of colors to make finding your socks or charging cable even easier

Packing bags and organizers:

• Packing bags are usefull to sort clothing by type (shirt, pants, socks, bikinis, drama).
• Packing bags give you quick access to what you're looking for (no "everything out, everything in again" moments).
• Compression versions of packing bags save space in your luggage.

Waterproof bags:

• Waterproof bags useful for electronics (phone, camera, e-reader).
• Waterproof bags are useful to keep your clothes dry during hikes or canoeing.
• Use a waterproof bag as an improvised laundry bag or stink bag for wet towels.

When to take packing bags, organizer bags and waterproof bags on a trip or while backpacking?

• These types of bags can be useful for any trip with a backpack or suitcase.
• Use packing bags especially for:
  • Tours.
  • Trips with camping or boat trips.
  • Rainy seasons (think: Southeast Asia, Costa Rica, Scotland).
  • If you travel like a minimalist and therefore want to keep an overview.

Where can you also buy packing bags, organizer bags and waterproof bags locally in the world?

• Packing bags you can find at outdoor or travel stores.
• Large department stores or sport/outdoor-like stores sell packing bags as well. Online: travel web shops, local backpacker shops.
• Dry bags are often for sale at water sports shops or market stalls in wet areas (yes, looking at you, Laos).

What is a roller bag?

• A roller bag is a bag with two or four wheels, so you can not only carry the bag by the handle or the strap, but also pull it behind you.
• A backpack with wheels is also called a wheelpack.

What is a suitcase?

• A suitcase is a large fabric or plastic case with two or four wheels on the bottom. The suitcase often has two handles and an extendable rod to roll the suitcase forward or pull it behind you.
• A smaller suitcase is also called a trolley.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a roller bag or suitcase?

• Advantage of a suitcase: you do not have to lift or carry a backpack on your back in warm countries. You have room for a daypack on your back.
• Disadvantage of a suitcase: if you have to walk a long way on bad roads, a bag with wheels is sometimes inconvenient.
• Disadvantage of a suitcase: it is not always the most noise-friendly way to transport your luggage.

What are your options regarding roller bags? 

Trolley case:

• Hard case (polycarbonate) is shockproof, sturdy, often more attractive.
• Soft case (nylon/polyester) trolley case is lighter, slightly more flexible when packing.
• Cabin size/hand luggage roller bag is perfect for short trips, or ultralight backpackers

Trolley bag:

• Duffel with wheels has a sporty look, ideal for longer trips.
• Backpack hybrid with wheels and shoulder straps, is especially for those who are hesitant
• Foldable trolley bags is handy as extra luggage for souvenirs.

What can you use a suitcase or roller bag for when travelling and backpacking?

• A suitcase or roller bag is ideal for city trips, organised trips or permanent stays. You don't have to lug roller bags around, just roll it (unless you encounter gravel, sand or steps of course.
• A roller bag usually protects your stuff better than a backpack.
• For more luxurious trips and trips in countries with good infrastructure it is often perfect, but are you going to countries with poor infrastructure or are you going to hike mountain trails and cross rivers? Then it is better not to.

When do you take a suitcase or roller bag with you on a trip or while backpacking?

• Take a suitcase with you, when your route is relatively paved and organized in a western way (think: Europe, US, Japan).
• A suitcase is suitable for work trips, city trips or between countries with good infrastructure.
• Use a suitcase for trips with suitcase services or organized transfers (or taxis).

Where can you buy a suitcase or roller bag in the world?

• Buy suitcases at an airport or at large department stores, travel shops and in outdoor shops (roller bags).
• Often are suitcase offered at local shops in expat neighborhoods or tourist areas.

What is a transport cover, flight bag or combined cover?

• A transport cover or flight bag protects your backpack from damage, for example, by the baggage belt at the airport or when you have to throw your bag on top of a minibus. In this case, the cover also protects against dust and sand, so that your backpack does not get dirty. The entire backpack can be placed in the transport cover, via the opening at the top.
• Transport covers are often made of somewhat sturdier material, and are less likely to break than, for example, rain covers for backpacks that are somewhat lighter in material.
• A transport cover opens on the 'short' side; you let your bag slide in from above or you squeeze the cover around your bag from above.

What is a backpack combination cover?

• The backpack combination cover is a transport and rain cover in one. In contrast to the transport cover, which has the opening on the short side, the combination cover has a much larger opening at the height of the entire back panel.
• You can zip it closed if you don't need to wear your backpack and you're going on the plane belt or in the bus. Or you can unzip it if you want to carry the backpack (and protect it from rain or theft) and pull it tight around your bag using a string.
• The entire cover can also be closed with a lock to prevent theft.

What are the options?

• Simple flight bag - light, zip + lock eye, sometimes with shoulder strap.
• Combination cover (3-in-1) - flight bag, rain cover, extra bag.
• Transport cover with lock or TSA lock option - for extra security.
• Waterproof version - handy for jungle, boats, rain showers.
• Improvisation option - large garbage bag with duct tape (you're laughing now, but it can be quite handy!).

What can you use a transport cover for when traveling and backpacking?

• It protects your backpack when checking in on the plane: no torn straps or missing hip belts. You can also put a lock on the cover.
• It keeps your bag clean when transporting it on the roofs of buses or in muddy luggage compartments.
• It sometimes serves as an extra bag or cover when storing your luggage.
• It makes your backpack less “grabable” for thieves (or curious hands).

When do you take a transport cover or flight bag with you when backpacking?

• Holiday: excellent choice, more practical than having it sealed at the airport.
• World trip or long journey: recommended, choose a sturdy, not too heavy version.
• When backpacking by plane - definitely do it if you don't want your bag to get damaged (and therefore also lose value if you want to resell it).

Where can you also buy transport covers locally in the world?

• Outdoor shops, travel shops and at airports. Backpacker hubs often have them somewhere (sometimes cheaper alternatives).
• Online.
• DIY: a large plastic bag, laundry bag with drawstring

What is a travel pack?

• A travel pack is a backpack specifically designed for travel and backpacking, combining features of a backpack and a suitcase.
• The main difference compared to a regular backpack is that a travel pack (usually):
  • has a zip-away carrying system.
  • opens like a suitcase.
  • often has extra handles and shoulder straps.
  • sometimes comes with a separate day pack.
• Because a travel pack zips open completely, you can organize your belongings more easily and find them faster than with a classic top-loader backpack where you mainly pack from the top.
• If you don't need the shoulder straps, you can easily zip them away and use a shoulder strap or handle to carry. This allows you to transport your bag neatly and without loose straps and buckles on the bus and train, and the carrying system is protected during transport.
• Once you arrive, you zip the carrying system back out, and you have a comfortable backpack again. Most travel packs come with a daypack that you can attach to the backpack either on the back or the front. The latter is very handy if, for example, you have just arrived in Delhi from Germany and have a nice new phone in your daypack: you have both hands free, you can easily access your phone, and you have a clear view of your daypack.

What can you use a travel pack for while traveling and backpacking?

• As main luggage during backpacking trips.
• As a combination of a suitcase and a backpack.
• As an organized travel backpack for longer trips.
• As hand luggage with smaller models.
• As a bag for round trips where you frequently change accommodation.
• As a practical bag for train, bus, and air travel.
• The separate daypack that is often included can be useful:
  • as hand luggage.
  • during day trips.
  • for temple visits, hikes, or city walks.
  • to keep valuables close at hand.
• Some travelers wear that daypack on the front of their body while the large backpack sits on the back, giving you quicker access to important items. This can be particularly pleasant in busy places, for example when you have just arrived at a large station or airport in a busy city like Delhi.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a travel pack?

Advantages of a travel pack are

• Easier packing and finding items.
• Neater during transport due to a stowable carrying system.
• Often more versatile than a regular backpack.
• More comfortable for combining transport and walking.
• Usually many compartments and organizers.
• Daypack is often included.

Disadvantages of a travel pack are

• Often heavier than minimalist backpacks.
• Sometimes less comfortable for long hikes.
• More zippers and systems sometimes mean more wear-prone parts.
• Larger models get heavy quickly.
• Some travel packs are less compact than expected.

When should you take a travel pack with you on a trip or while backpacking?

• For short backpacking trips, a travel pack is a great alternative to a regular backpack.
• For long trips and world travel, it is often one of the more practical choices, especially if you are not constantly walking everywhere.
• When you regularly switch between bus, train, plane, and hostel.
• When you want to pack in an organized and structured way. When you are looking for a combination of carrying comfort and organization.
• When you don't want to lug around a hard suitcase, but still want easy access to your belongings.
• For intensive treks or mountain hikes, a real hiking backpack is usually more suitable.

Where can you buy a travel pack locally when you are traveling?

• Travel packs are mainly available in:
  • outdoor stores.
  • specialized backpack shops.
  • large sports stores.
  • travel stores.
  • larger cities with a lot of backpacking tourism.
• Because fit and carrying comfort are very important, many travelers prefer to purchase their travel pack before departure so they can try it on and test it properly.