Different Types of Backpacks

Walk, City, or Stroll Backpacks

These backpacks sometimes seem a bit basic compared to others, with their smaller sizes and capacities (no more than 40 litres), fewer compartments, or accessories. But they were originally designed as secondary bags. Also worth noting are some "fanny pack" models that can convert into stroll backpacks.

Price range: plenty of options between 30 and 80 €.

Use: as a secondary bag, of course, but also as a main bag in the 35/40-litre range for solo travellers who want to travel (very) light over short periods without overpacking.

Camping-Hiking Backpacks

Popular models that combine comfort, carrying quality, and practical storage with plenty of pockets and some accessories (rain cover, straps, pole holder, etc.) across various capacities. They may not excel in every feature but offer a good balance, often with a solid price-to-quality ratio.

Price range: plenty of options between 50 and 100 €.

Use: ideal for travellers who want a backpack for their trip *and* something suitable for short hikes or occasional treks. Meanwhile, this category remains the best and most adaptable for the "classic" solo traveller.

Hiking and Mountain Backpacks

Or occasionally a combination of both. In any case, these backpacks are designed—including in shape—for these activities, with storage and accessories tailored for them (pole/ice axe/ski holder, water pocket, rain cover, etc.). Generally sturdy, they can also be quite large in terms of possible capacity.

Price range: starting around 80 € and going up to several hundred for pro-level models.

Use: as the name suggests, these two categories are for those who prioritise trekking, hiking, or mountain activities (including expeditions or skiing) during their travels. However, they aren’t ideal (in terms of price, design, etc.) for a "traditional" country exploration.

Backpack-Suitcases

A clever hybrid between a backpack and a suitcase (with a touch of travel bag). From the backpack, it takes the shape, shoulder straps, and waist belt (though not many external pockets). From the suitcase, it borrows a single, spacious compartment, a wide lockable side opening, and a retractable handle at the top. From the travel bag, it gains the option to sometimes be carried as a shoulder bag. Add a small attached daypack and the possibility of wheels, and you have a well-designed hybrid.

Price range: roughly 80 to 200 €.

Use: a compromise for those who travel solo, in groups, with tours, or otherwise. Plus, in terms of appearance (a key factor for some), many models look like a suitcase that doesn’t scream "tourist" and a backpack that doesn’t scream "backpacker." In short, it’s quite versatile...

Other Categories

Kids’ Backpacks

Their main feature is offering a volume and capacity suited to children.

For reference, there are also a few baby-carrier backpack models—a more or less successful hybrid between a backpack and a baby carrier.

Women’s Backpacks

More of a subcategory found across almost all backpack types. They’re specially adapted to women’s anatomy.

Sports Backpacks

Small backpacks designed for cyclists, motorcyclists, or those practising activities like running, skiing, or climbing.

Frame Backpacks

Once widespread, they’re now rare. While their frame allows carrying very heavy and bulky loads, their weight (at least 1 kg for the frame alone) and bulk compared to other backpacks have made them far less competitive.

The Carrix

The Carrix is a backpack-trolley hybrid, great for its ease of carrying (up to over 20 kg without too much effort). But it’s primarily for those undertaking sports trips or expeditions requiring heavy or bulky gear—and who have the budget. Expect to pay between 400 and 600 € for the full setup, though a simpler "globe-trotter" version exists at a lower cost.

Which Category to Choose?

Logically, the question to ask is: what will you use your backpack for?

So, if you’re planning mostly hiking or mountain activities, a "hiking" or "mountain" backpack is the way to go. Otherwise, for more "classic" trips (i.e., most people), "camping-hiking" backpacks will do just fine—or even a large-capacity "walk" model for those who want to travel light.

As for the "backpack-suitcase," it’s also an option, though it’s best to avoid the bulkiest models, which can be cumbersome in many situations.