What is a backpack?

Well start with the ubiquitous backpack because its an item around the world. We could even say that every household has a backpack — at least among those with kids, young office workers, and active adults.

The simplest definition of a backpack is as follows: a backpack we carry around with two shoulder straps and enough interior space to hold items for a day or even a weekend trip.

While Americans didnt invent the backpack, they did coin the term. "Backpack" is a popular label that we all use to describe other types of "backpacks" such as childrens school bags, school bags, and even drawstring bags.

If youve ever heard the term "backpack" used instead of "backpack", you should know that a backpack is also a backpack, but with a smaller size and capacity. For example, if the average capacity of the backpack is about 50 liters or more, then the capacity of the backpack is about 30-40 liters. For more information on choosing the right backpack for your needs, check out this guide!

All in all, when you think about backpacks, you think about those average-sized bags that people wear to school, tech backpacks they bring to work, weekend backpacks to pack when planning a two-day trip, or full sports backpacks for hiking days, etc.

Key Features of a Backpack

Here are the most important features that distinguish backpacks from rucksacks and backpacks:

Term Use: United States of America

Etymology: American

Size: medium to large size - capacity of 50 liters and above;

Shoulder Straps: Two adjustable shoulder straps; the ideal, true-to-shape backpack also features a waist belt that transfers weight from the shoulders to the hips for added comfort.

Uses Daily life, school, work, excursions, excursions, shopping, etc.

Design: Rectangle/Square, Multiple Colors, Multiple Materials (Canvas, Polypropylene, Leather, Fabric Combinations, etc.), Laptop Sleeves, Headphone Outlets, Compartments for Tablets, E-Books, and Other Gadgets, etc.

The notable difference between backpacks and rucksacks is their size/capacity and appearance. The  Rucksacks are larger with more compartments and pockets to carry heavier loads. They also come with a waist belt and chest strap to help the wearer carry them for extended periods without putting pressure on the back. Essentially, the answer to the question "what is a rucksack" goes like this: A rucksack is a sturdier, larger pack designed for outdoor endurance.

The word "rucksack" comes from German and means the bag you carry on your back. The term is now the European equivalent of "backpack" in the United States. Countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, Sweden, and even Russia use the term "rucksack" to describe the large, stretchy bags that people carry on their backs for everyday use or travel.

In the United States, a rucksack is a bag worn by the U.S. military, hikers, campers, globetrotters, and more.

Key Features of a rucksack

When used properly, the term rucksack describes a bag that has the following functions:

Terminology usage: European, U.S. military;

Etymology: German;

Size: Large - capacity over 60 liters;

Shoulder straps: two adjustable shoulder straps, hip straps, chest straps;

Uses Long-distance travel, camping, hiking, trekking, military applications, etc.

Design: Square/rectangular shape, the central entry point on top of the pack, multiple pockets and compartments (dedicated to carrying sleeping bags, water bottles/pouches, tents, etc.), multiple materials (waxed canvas, technical fabric, polypropylene, combo, etc.) ), camouflage prints/natural colors/bright color combinations, etc.

What is a Knapsack?

Now that we understand what a rucksack is, we must understand what a knapsack is. The rucksack vs. backpack vs. knapsack debate relies on the history of the term and its use when it comes to the latter. A knapsack is a smaller type of backpack, but people use the term primarily in Canada to refer to what Americans call backpacks or daypacks. The main difference is the size of this item.

The German origin word for knapsack means "small bag," so its the item of choice for those who dont need to carry a lot of heavy loads during the day, or for urbanites who want a demure and understated look.

Knapsacks Critical Features

Now its time to see what features the knapsack has:

The terminology used: Canada;

Etymology: German;

Size: Small - capacity less than 30 liters;

Shoulder straps: one or two, without any additional belt;

Uses: daily use, convenient for small objects, school bags, daily bags;

Design: Triangular (some people call it a sling bag), also square/rectangular, mostly in natural colors but also in bright color combinations, usually with the main compartment and some outer pockets, etc.