Travel backpack help needed!

nicoley_2

Hello everyone,
I'm new, so please bear with me! My boyfriend is spending 3 months travelling around Thailand and has asked me to find a backpack suitable (he knows I'm a bargain hunter!). I have had no experience of outdoor pursuits or camping or anything like that so don't really know where to start! I would be so grateful if any of you money savers could help me out with this one
Many thanks in advance.

fluffygrue

I wouldn't recommend that he buys an expensive backpack without trying it on, as he needs to make sure that it sits well on his hips and the back length feels right etc..

But if he's comfortable travelling on a very lightweight basis then I've been happy with my 40l backpack from Gelert - Amazon sometimes do them for as little as £20. It was perfect for backpacking around Central America.

nicoley_2

Thanks for your help, I will be sure to check it out. Im sure he will be happy to travel light so will go for 40l, thanks again

wdw2003

As it happens, my daughter's spending the summer backpacking in Thailand and Bali and bought this http://www.ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk/golite_jam_50litre_rucksack.html

It's top quality, very light weight, very tough but light material, fits into airline carry-on and can be cinched down to a day pack. Because it's a good brand, you could easily sell it on Ebay if you don't need it again, so it works out relatively cheap. In our case, I'll be using it myself as it's too good to get rid of.

nicoley_2

That bag looks fab wdw, but I dont think he can afford (/wants to pay) the outlay cost.. He wants to save every penny for his travels! If it was me I would definitely be going for the all singing all dancing backpack!!

kittykarate

I honestly think he's doing this the wrong way round.. he should scout around and find backpacks that fit him and his requirements... Then with this shortlist he should unleash you and your MSE skills to find a bargain.

I've ended up with a really bad back from a backpack that didn't fit me properly, and it could ruin his 3 months if it doesn't suit him.