This post is part of a series in which ladies on the road offer a review of their backpack. Today’s review comes from Georgina Young.
Wearing the Eurohike Hydro 35+5.
Hey, chickies — George here. Originally from beautiful Wales, I have been travelling pretty much for the last 3 years of my life, but currently call Kyushu, Japan my home. I sold, gave away or binned almost everything I owned last summer before the big move. I’m a big believer in minimalism, so if this sounds like you then you might like my backpack. My dream is to fit everything I own into my 40L.
What’s your backpack brand and model? How much does this backpack typically cost?
I carry a Eurohike Hydro 35+5. It is super cheap mainly because it is nothing too fancy, I think it was about £40, no deals, that’s about what they tend to go for.
How long have you had your backpack and where have you traveled with it?
I’ve been with it just over a year now. But it’s done some mileage. Apart from countless small trips it also lasted a road trip through Europe, hitchhiking to Croatia and a month in India. I think it was the perfect choice for all three. I actually take my pack to work with me everyday as well, so I love that it’s small enough for that too.
What factors were most important to you in choosing a backpack? How did you come to choose this one?
Size matters, and really that was the most important thing to me. I already had a Karrimor Urban 30 which I found too small, but now I think maybe the shape was the problem not the size as my friend carries a Karrimor Skye 25 which fits MUCH more. Originally I wanted to replace my 70L pack which I’ve had since I was a scout (over 10 years old) and is painful. However, after using it for 3 months in Oz, I realised that I had packed WAY too much, and could have left half of it behind. It was way too heavy.
It was also painful when I used it to move to Japan, but I don’t plan on using it for trips EVER again. The more I read about packs, the more 40L appealed to me as I could use it as carry on. I needed one fast, but I only actually ended up with my one as it was the ONLY 40L pack in the store. However, saying this I am definitely happy.
What do you like most about your backpack? Any down sides?
I actually really like the roll down clips. Zips break and are easy to break into. It rolls down and clips in instead of a zipper, which I found strange at first but it helps keep the pack dry and stops thieves from getting in easily. It also has a bright orange cover packed into the base to keep it dry. I like the amount of pockets (there’s a great one in the front for putting travel documents so they are easy to access) and the daisy chain in the front to clip plenty of things to. I also like the +5L size of the top pocket meaning I can use it to keep everything I need at hand when travelling.
I guess I would have preferred a front loading pack so that you don’t need to pull EVERYTHING out just to get your chapstick etc. But I know most packs are top loading and front loaders are pricey so I can’t complain too much. Also it’s a bit… green. Is that superficial?
Tell us about the fit and comfort level of your backpack.
Super comfortable padding. Great thick waist band. I think it may be a unisex bag but it’s great for me (5’9″). To be honest I hardly even use the waist band though as I don’t pack too much in and it’s still super comfortable. People complain that it can make your back sweaty which I would agree with, but if you tie the waist strap back it keeps it away from you and sweat free. The shoulder straps are also super thick and comfortable. And it’s super light too.
If you want to take your backpack as carry-on luggage, can you?
Yes, that’s why I bought it. I’ve taken it on several Ryanair flights as well as many other budget airlines. So, it’s budget airline approved.
Have you found the size to be too small, just right, or too large?
Everyone always says their pack is PERFECT! But I would say mine is maybe slightly too big. But only slightly. Then again I like to pack light. I think 8kg is more than enough stuff for any trip, even when hitchhiking and carrying sleeping bags, food etc.
Overall, would you recommend your backpack?
I definitely would. It’s a great pack for those on a budget, or those who like to travel carry on (but still have plenty of room), probably the best in it’s price range. I love it, and plan to be with it for many years to come.
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About the Author: George is a 20-something hitchhiker, solo female traveller and cunning linguist, currently teaching in Kyushu, Japan. She circumnavigates the globe and teaches languages to all those in her wake. She has travelled Europe and Oz extensively, and has taught languages in 6 different countries and counting. Her blog is a mix of language learning, TEFL tips and general travel tales. Follow her journey at George on the Go or on Facebook or Twitter.
Thanks for having me girlies