Types of backpacks, rucksacks, and knapsacks to Consider

Now that weve introduced you to the Rucksack vs. Backpack vs. Knapsack front, its time to take a look at the different types of bags you can get into these three categories. Youll notice some of these types versus entire product categories because its fairly normal for this to happen.

So, without further ado, here are a few different types of backpacks, rucksacks, and knapsacks for those who want to be real enthusiasts.

Basic Daypack

If you want something as basic as possible that you can fix yourself, you cant go wrong with a basic daypack.

As a general rule of thumb, the basic daypack has a front-facing main compartment, a large front pocket, a pair of shoulder straps, and a handle. Apart from these things, they have nothing else to see. They are as basic as possible, which is why they get their name like that.

Also, if youre the kind of person who likes simple things, then youll enjoy having a basic daypack because youll know where everything is. You have up to four compartments, so its nearly impossible to lose your bags contents.

Biking Gear Backpacks

Are you used to cycling a lot but you live in a climate that is not so hot? Well, you can forget about hydration packs and opt for bike gear packs instead.

Generally, they are designed for people who need to store and organize gear other than hydration bags. Youll find many of these packs have attachment points for the helmet and LED lights on the front. Youll also notice that in addition to the main compartment, they also have a compartment made just for all your riding gear and tools.

However, they can hardly carry more than your bike gear, as most of these packs have a capacity of between 10 and 30 liters. However, the good part is that they are very light and small, so you can easily ride them on your back as you wont feel anything dragging you down.

Framed Hiking Backpacks

Do you enjoy hiking and arent afraid to carry some extra weight to keep all your equipment in one place? Then a hiking backpack with a frame might be just what you need.

One of the main advantages of these backpacks is that they have a frame that allows them to stand up even if they are empty. So you can more easily fill them with everything before your trip. By the way, the frame also helps you balance on uneven terrain, so if youre serious about hiking and hiking, thats an even better benefit.

Now, this is where things get a little tricky. These anti-theft bags look just like a normal daypack but have some nifty tricks that are usually invisible to the naked eye.

Hidden zipper pulls, cut-resistant fabric, and locks on the zipper pullers are just a few of the things that prevent potential thieves from taking your precious laptop and other items you might be carrying. Some higher-end anti-theft bags also feature RFID-blocking fabric to prevent electronic theft, such as hackers trying to steal your bank card information wirelessly.

Laptop-Oriented Backpack

Well, you would argue that you can carry a laptop in just about any type of backpack, right? Well, yes, but you miss the point.

In addition to providing a protective case for your laptop, they also come with several compartments that help carry such devices. Yes, laptop backpacks are the most common everyday backpacks, but you can even find some hiking and backpacking backpacks with laptop sleeves.

Having said that, laptop backpacks come in different shapes and sizes because they are designed for different-sized laptops. More specifically, youll find backpacks made for 11", 13", 15.6" (by far the most common size), 17", and even 19" laptops in some specific cases.

Also, you should look for models with padded sleeves to prevent spills, drops, and other potential hazards.

Wheeled Backpacks

Well, since we talked about trolley bags before, we might as well mention it, right? Wheeled backpacks are basically that, more or less. You have the organizing genius of a backpack and the added convenience of a wheeled cart.

What more could you want? Oh yes, you cant carry it completely on your back. Still, its much better than dealing with a normal cart that isnt as organized as a backpack, right? In any case, you can expect these capacities to vary from 40 liters to 150 liters, so you can probably already imagine how much you can carry.

Frameless Hiking Backpacks

One thing that frameless hiking backpacks do over framed backpacks is...well, theyre frameless, which means theyre much lighter. Most of them weigh about 1.5 pounds, so you can barely feel them while hiking or hiking.

They are an excellent choice for smaller loads, as the load itself determines the shape and fit of the pack. Note, however, that these packages can also become very cumbersome when loaded at maximum. You need to balance the rimless backpack with the gear youre carrying, or youll be uncomfortable.

Duffel Rucksacks

As their name suggests, these are duffel bags with shoulder straps that allow you to carry them like a rucksack. And, like a rucksack, these things can get pretty big.

Theyre great for travelers because they allow you to carry them on your back or by hand, and you can easily switch between two carry modes in case one becomes uncomfortable. This is especially important for long rides or long queues on subways, buses, or other similar places.

If you have a lot to carry and you dont want to bother with a full-size cart, this is the next best thing.

Hydration Backpacks

Small and lightweight, these backpacks are designed to carry only a few items and perform one key goal when youre out and about: quench your thirst. Only a few of these backpacks will include extra pockets to store other items, so another benefit of getting a hydration pack is that you wont lose anything inside.

Furthermore, the best part about these hydration backpacks is that they provide you with water completely hands-free. Having said that, they are great for a quick hike or bike ride. So youll be safer than ever in traffic.

TSA-Friendly Backpacks

Our fellow Americans, you read that right. This type of backpack is great if you like to travel by air. "But how can backpacks be friendly to those who like to have frequent cavity checks?" you might ask...  

No, it wont bribe them. However, they do have a TSA-friendly laptop compartment. Let us explain. You can unzip the laptop compartment and lay it flat on the scanner so you dont have to take out your computer when you go through the TSA checkpoint.

Anyone who has ever dealt with TSA agents can already imagine how much precious time can be saved with a feature like this. Time-saving travelers need a TSA-friendly backpack in their life as it can save them a lot of stress and precious time and keep them more relaxed while waiting for their flight.

Rucksack vs. Backpack vs. Knapsack: Bottom Line

What is a rucksack? Do you currently own one, or do you just have backpacks in different sizes to meet all your needs? Now that weve seen the similarities and differences between backpacks, rucksacks, and knapsacks together, its time to share your thoughts. Do you use a daypack on weekend trips? Is your tech backpack the same one you carry on short and short trips? Do you have a rucksack specifically for camping, hiking, and vacationing abroad?