All Kinds of Backpack Features

Belt, Straps, Harness

These are all designed to make carrying more or less comfortable.

The Belt

Available on all models, some come with those huge padded belts that are very useful and comfortable if you have to walk a lot, but quickly become cumbersome if you only carry your backpack briefly or not for long during your travels. In short, unless you're a trekker or hiker, it's best to avoid bulky belts.

It's also worth noting that many belts have small inner pockets with zippers. Why not, though in the end, few people actually use them.

Shoulder Straps, Harness, Back Straps

Much the same comments as for the belt. However, these elements remain crucial for carrying comfort. Even if you don’t carry your backpack all day, it’s best to minimize fatigue.

So, the "adjustable back" option offered on many models is interesting in this regard. It allows you to adjust the height of the harness to fit your back, meaning the distance between the shoulder straps and the belt. The same goes for back straps or tension straps that help keep the top of the backpack snug against your back.

Compartments

You’ll find backpacks with a single (large) compartment, while others offer two or even three.

While a single compartment allows you to store bulky items, it also has the downside of requiring you to pack carefully to avoid having to empty your backpack regularly to find something that’s inevitably ended up at the bottom (even with the "bottom access" option).

Another minor drawback: seeing your dirty clothes mix with clean ones, or wet items with dry ones. In short, it’s better to opt for a double-compartment system, especially if it allows you to merge the two spaces into one when needed.

Still, double compartmentalization is really useful for medium to large backpacks (over 45 liters). Below that, the volume of each space is usually too small to be truly practical.

Access

Depending on the model, access to the main compartment can be via a drawstring or a (wide) zipper (or sometimes both). The latter option is perhaps slightly better.

"Bottom Access" Option

This is the zipper at the bottom of the backpack that allows direct access to its base. While useful on occasion, it’s not always present on backpacks.

Flap

This is the top part that covers the backpack and is secured with straps. While strap length adjustment is always available, some flaps are sometimes too short to fully cover a sleeping bag or tent slipped underneath, or even the top of the backpack when it’s fully loaded. So, plan accordingly.

Pockets

They serve different purposes depending on the model: increasing capacity, making certain items more accessible, or fulfilling a specific function.

External Side Pockets

Not all backpacks have them. Small-capacity models ("daypacks," etc.) or "travel packs" often lack them. Similarly, "mountaineering" or "climbing" backpacks may not have them as they can get in the way.

That said, they increase the backpack’s capacity and make certain items more accessible. So, for other models, it’s best to choose those with functional pockets—meaning not too small, nor too short or narrow to be truly useful (you should at least be able to fit a guidebook or a book). Expandable pockets (with adjustable dimensions) are a good option.

There’s no need to opt for backpacks with multiple small pockets, which often end up being of little use. Two side pockets are usually better.

It’s worth noting that some models (mostly "mountaineering") include removable pockets with a strap system.

External Back Pocket

Found on some models. But here too, it should be functional.

Mesh Pockets

Often present as a replacement on models without external pockets, and sometimes on those same pockets. A small plus, but often underused or not very practical.

Flap Pockets, Document Pockets

Flap pockets are found on many backpack models. They allow you to store a few items or documents at the top of the backpack. The only downside is that many of them aren’t very practical—too shallow and difficult to use if you’ve placed a sleeping bag, sleeping mat, or tent under the flap, as it then has to wrap around them.

The same goes for document pockets sometimes found under the flap.

Water Bottle Pockets

Available on a few models with a "straw hole." Not very useful except for "mountaineering" or "sports" backpacks. Plus, the bottle needs to be the right size...

Miscellaneous Features

Depending on the model and its use, backpacks come with various other small accessories.

Ice Axe, Pole, Ski Carriers

These strap systems are found on "mountaineering" and occasionally "hiking" models. While useful for these activities, they offer no advantage for more classic travel use.

Sleeping Bag, Sleeping Mat, Tent Straps

Far more useful are the straps at the top of the flap or bottom of the backpack that allow you to roll up a sleeping bag, mat, or tent. A similar option exists with just loops for adding a new pocket and, most importantly, straps for rolling up a sleeping bag or other gear. This is even better than pre-installed straps that you might not always use.

Compression Straps

These are two or three external side straps that allow you to compress the backpack’s contents tightly. They’re primarily found on "mountaineering" and "hiking" models. Useful but not essential.

Handles

Found on almost all backpacks, a carrying handle is located at the top. It allows you to lift or hold the backpack up high. In some cases, it could be a bit wider and sturdier.

Backpack Cover

Some models include a protective or rain cover, which is very useful.

Which Features to Choose?

In summary, you can:

• Opt for a model with an "adjustable back" and "tension straps" to make carrying easier.

• Avoid bulky belts (unless for trekking or hiking).

• Choose a double-compartment system for medium or larger backpacks, possibly with the "bottom access" option and, ideally, a (wide) zipper opening.

• Pick a model with a sufficiently long flap.

• Prioritize backpacks with two good external side pockets and, optionally, a back pocket.

• While pole carriers aren’t very useful outside of trekking or mountaineering, loops for adding new pockets or carrying a sleeping bag are much more practical.

• The same goes for a protective cover.