Lauren Descher and her North Face Terra 40L

After finishing my Master’s degree last year, my husband and I moved to the incredible city of Chiang Mai, Thailand.  By day I’m an English teacher at a local private school, and by night/weekend I work with Shan refugees at an awesome organization (thaifreedomhouse.org), eat delicious street food, and am always planning our next trip!  We just got back from a visa-run-turned-adventure through Laos, and in the next year we’re planning to travel all around Thailand and to Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, and maybe Indonesia. 

What’s your backpack brand and model? How much does this backpack typically cost?

My pack is a North Face Women’s Terra 40L.  I bought it roughly four years ago, and since then this particular size has been discontinued; it is still available in 35L (gender neutral), 45L and 55L (both women’s specific), so depending on your circumstances you could go larger or slightly smaller.  The retail price ranges from $139 US to $165 US.

>> Check prices for the North Face Terra on Amazon.

How long have you had your backpack and where have you traveled with it?

I bought my backpack before my first long-term move abroad in 2009, to France.  It’s been with me all across Europe, to Egypt and Morocco, and most recently to Thailand and Laos.  I’ve thrown it up and down stairs, into and off of trains, buses and airplanes, and it’s survived it all like a champ. 

What factors were most important to you in choosing a backpack? How did you come to choose this one?

I do a lot of urban traveling, but I am also an avid camper and hiker, so I wanted something that could survive in both worlds.  I was looking for something that was pretty waterproof without a rain cover, small enough that even fully loaded it wouldn’t be too heavy, and that had enough pockets to keep me organized without too much thought going into it.  What I’ve really come to love about this pack is that the outside material on all of the main pockets is stretchy, so they fit everything from toiletries to shoes.

My main priority was finding something that would fit comfortably; I am pretty curvy, and looked primarily at women’s packs that wouldn’t awkwardly squeeze my chest and that would sit comfortably on my hips without putting too much strain on my lower back. The hip straps on this pack are slightly curved instead of just wrapping straight around me, so it actually sits on top of my hips, which I love; I can carry any amount of weight comfortably because of this feature.

What do you like most about your backpack? Any down sides?

I LOVE the color of my pack!  It really stands out and is easy to spot in a crowd of other bags, so it’s easy to keep track of in public places.  I also like that it is very easy to adjust while it’s on, so it fits perfectly no matter what I’m wearing or what I’m doing (and I never have to ask for help!).  I’d say the only thing I don’t like about it is that it’s top loading, and while there is a zipper across the bottom for access from both sides it can be a pain to retrieve things packed in the middle without completely tearing everything apart.  However, there is a built in divider that can be hooked into place to create two separate spaces within the bag that helps with this issue.  It’s meant to create a stuff space for a sleeping bag, but I often end up using it to keep my clean and dirty clothes from contaminating one another, and it works pretty well.

Tell us about the fit and comfort level of your backpack.

As I mentioned before, part of what I love about this bag is the fit; not only is it designed to fit my hips and shorter torso, the straps are easy to tighten and loosen while it’s on.

A big part of what helps the bag be so comfortable is the Verti-Cool strip on the back; it’s an open mesh piece that allows for some extra air flow, something I’ve been grateful for every time I’ve had to haul it around in the heat.

If you want to take your backpack as carry-on luggage, can you?

Yes… most of the time.  I bought this size specifically because the frame of the pack is just inside the length maximum for most major airlines, so the 35L would fit fine but the larger models would likely need to be checked.  There are two compression straps on each side, in addition to the main closures connecting the brain pouch to the bag, so it can become quite compact when necessary.  However, if the brain pouch is full and the pack is stuffed, it won’t fit; I only carry mine on when I absolutely have to, and when I’m not taking too much with me so the bag isn’t stretched beyond the size of the frame.  When I was traveling around Europe on budget airlines (usually Ryan Air or Easy Jet), I always had to check it since their carry on luggage policies only allow for one small bag.

Have you found the size to be too small, just right, or too large?

The size of this pack is just right for me, since I wanted something versatile enough to handle week-long trips and multi-month expeditions.  I like that it doesn’t come up very high behind my head, even when the brain pouch is full, and that it’s small enough that I can put it on while standing without help.

FUN FACT!There’s a safety whistle built into the buckle on the chest strap!  Thankfully I’ve never had to use it, but I can definitely see it coming in handy if I get lost in the woods/get mugged/something else dreadful happens, and it’s very conveniently located.  I’m not sure if this is unique to the women’s model (or to this line of bags), but I think it’s a neat feature for anyone regardless of gender.

Overall, would you recommend your backpack?

Yes!

You can follow Laura’s adventures on her blog at uprootedpath.com.

The post Meet Laura Descher and Her North Face Terra 40L appeared first on Her Packing List.

It’s no secret that I’m a fan of compression sacks, particularly over packing cubes, and travel with them always. I’ve owned a few including the Sea to Summit, a Kelty variety and most recently the Hoboroll. I’d seen it reviewed on another site and loved the fact that it had separate pockets to keep your clothes organized. So of course, I had to get myself one to let all of you know how it works.

The Hoboroll flat.

The Hoboroll Review:

Owner Chez Brungraber went on a trip and found it frustrating when it came time to pack. She was trying to keep organized, but found it difficult with standard compression sacks, as you have to take everything out to get something at the bottom. Enter the Hoboroll. To put her product to the test, she and her husband traveled for 3 months around Asia with it.

The Hoboroll can be carried like a bag.

The Pros:

As I said before, I love the 5 compartments because it allows me to stay organized, placing tops in one slot and bottoms in another. You don’t have to dump out the entire bag to find a specific item. You also can wear the Hoboroll as a bag by loosening the straps and throwing it over your shoulder. It also has a compression rate of 50%.

The Cons:

However, since these compartments exist, you can’t stuff quite as much in as you might in a normal compression sack.  The fabric it’s made from doesn’t give as much as the nylon does, but this also means it’s more sturdy. The straps are meant more to carry than to compress, allowing you to wear the Hoboroll as a separate bag if you need to.

>> Check out prices for the Hoboroll on Amazon.

The post Compression Sacks: The Hoboroll appeared first on Her Packing List.

Hey hey! I’m Lindsey, a writer and seemingly perpetual student from Sydney. I’ve seen more of Australia at 22 than most do in their lifetime, ‘done’ the Western Europe loop, spent some quality time in England, and started to explore SE Asia. I have a love of untouched places, and my future travels dreams are filled with the mountains of Nepal, the deep forests of the Amazon, the wilds of Africa – and everywhere in between!

What’s your backpack brand and model? How much does this backpack typically cost?

I travel with an Osprey Exos 46. I bought mine for just over AUD$200. It’s a little more expensive than some bags on the market but so, so worth it. Osprey is amazing quality.

>> Check out prices for the Osprey Exos 46 on Amazon.

How long have you had your backpack and where have you travelled with it?

I’ve had this backpack since November last year, and it came with me for a two month jaunt through Bali, the Philippines and Thailand. Coming up, it’s going to be my only bag on a 4 day hike in New Zealand, as well as trips to Europe, and it will be my main pack when I set off on long term travels.

What factors were most important to you in choosing a backpack? How did you come to choose this one?

When I started searching for my backpack, I was looking for one that would see me through travels that were to be indefinite, through many climates, and many different places. I wanted something small (so I couldn’t overpack it, and so I could take it as carry on…), light (who wants a ton of weight on their back?), and – and I know this really shouldn’t be a consideration but I have an artistic eye… – I wanted something pretty.

Initially I did really want a front loading pack, but I prioritised small and light over front loading in the end. I also really, really wanted an Osprey pack.

Lindsey wearing her Osprey Exos 46L

What do you like most about your backpack? Any down sides?

I love the way that this bag is just such a great little package. I like that the straps aren’t too bulky. I like that it’s small, and I can’t pack so much into it that it’s uncomfortable to wear (trust me, I tried. This bag is ridiculously comfortable). Something that surprised me was that I actually really do like that it’s top loading. Whilst front loading did seem like it would be easier – in a bag this size you really don’t have that much stuff to root through to find things. I also liked the air flow panel on the harness. The airflow really helps with backpack induced sweat patches, and as a bonus because the sweat doesn’t make it to the pack, the pack doesn’t start to smell like I noticed some others doing!

The main downside I found with this pack is that it doesn’t have a proper front pocket. There is a side opening pocket, but with only one zip there’s no way to secure it closed, and you just can’t fit that much in there.

Tell us about the fit and comfort level of your backpack.

Don’t let the apparent lack of padding on the shoulder straps and waist belt put you off – this bag is the most comfortable pack I can remember having worn (and I did a fair bit of hiking as a kid). The Air Speed Suspension system on the harness feels great against my back, and to be honest I ignored the waist band a lot unless I had the bag on for more than an hour. The only issue with the fit of the pack was that – at 5’6″, I fell right bang in the middle of the S/M harness split. If this happens to you – go for the larger size. I ended up getting the medium though being at the very bottom of the range and once loaded, my pack sat perfectly with the added benefit that my taller boyfriend can use it too.

If you want to take your backpack as carry-on luggage, can you?

Theoretically, the answer to this question is yes, and it’s a huge reason I was looking at this pack in the first place. I’ve loaded it into a couple of metal guides that various airlines – including budget airlines – have at their check in lines, and it fit like a charm. Sadly though, I had a big bottle of coconut oil that I bought at my first stop which prevented me from being able to actually use it as carry-on.

Have you found the size to be too small, just right, or too large?

Whilst in general I found the pack to be absolutely right – I definitely wouldn’t want anything bigger! My packing configuration left a little to be desired. A big camera and bulky netbook that took up oddly shaped spaces and a few too many clothes (shh…) meant that I couldn’t pack my daypack contents away into the Exos when I wanted to. As long as I kept the camera and netbook out of it however – I had room to compress the bag right down and still have space on top. Just the way I like it. Weirdly shaped camera aside, it can fit a surprising amount in! I chose the 46L over a smaller bag as I wanted the flexibility to travel with it to warmer climates where I’d need bulkier clothes than the packing I had planned for SE Asia. With practice, I know this pack will do the trick!

The interesting test will come when I take it hiking in New Zealand and need to carry a sleeping bag and half a tent as well as food and clothes to suit all possible weather patterns, but as it features carrying loops on the outside – it is a hiking pack after all – I expect it to pass with flying colours.

Overall, would you recommend your backpack?

Absolutely. Osprey is a fantastic brand of stellar quality packs – and they come with a lifetime warranty. It’s a great pack for those looking to pack light, but still have room to move despite the carry on size. Best of all, it’s incredibly lightweight and extremely comfortable to wear. Smiles all round!

About the author: Lindsey is a twenty-something writer with a serious case of wanderlust. A penchant for the undisturbed, rediscovered and just plain beautiful; she travels slowly with camera in hand and boyfriend by her side. She’s blogging about her most recent adventures at Chasing the Wild, and developing a world-wide home for her other projects at her brand new photography website.

The post Meet Lindsey Hodder and her Osprey Exos 46L appeared first on Her Packing List.

Step 1 Pick your bras!

While there are those adventures where you can just pack a couple of sports bras and go hiking, more often than not I find that my travels are varied, with many different types of adventures in one trip. In those scenarios a sports bra doesn’t always cut it, however, traveling with nicer bras and a backpack or carry-on only luggage can be a bit tricky. Bras get smashed, wrinkled, and don’t always hold their shape very well when they are packed and on the road for weeks at a time. I have finally found my solution!

As a somewhat nonstandard bra size (28D to 32C depending on the brand) it is important for me to not mangle my harder to find undergarments, so I recently purchased a CupCase. This nifty travel gadget acts like a mini suitcase within your bag or pack, protecting your bras from all the dents, dings, wrinkles, and squishing that come with living out of a suit case. I had heard of them but had never seen one in action or known anyone who owned one but decided to take the leap anyway. I am so glad I did.

Step 2 Put your bras in the case

Step 3 Put all the straps and stringy thingies inside the case

Step 4 Fold over

Ok so the deal with these CupCase things is that they look like a little rounded pod. You zip it open at the middle so that it looks like two bowls side by side, pop your cute bras in it (about 2 or 3), zip it back up, and shove it in your bag to be jostled, squished, and keep those bras looking great! The website also says that you can put jewelry or other accessories in the middle of your pod as well, thereby utilizing the ball shaped space left on the inside of your bras.

At about 7.5inches (19.05cm) in diameter and about 6inches (15.24cm) in height, I was, at first, concerned that maybe it would take up too much space in my bag, but for me it is so worth it to take up a little extra space and be able to be confident that my bras will survive my travels and that I won’t have those awkward wrinkles that appear in bras showing through my shirts or dresses. (Also, it keeps me from packing unnecessary things by taking up that little extra space.) You can find them on online for about $25 to $30. They currently come only in A/B and C/D sizes, so those of you with larger cup sizes should hurry up and write to the company telling them to make larger sizes too. I got the C/D size and am finding that to work quite well for me.

>> Check out prices for CupCase on Amazon

Step 5 Zip and go!

While traveling with it I have had other women comment on it and what an awesome thing it is, saying that they would finally be able to travel with that favorite bra without worrying that it would get ruined in transit. For me it is one of those things that I am packing from now on.

About the Author: Hi, I’m Jess Graff. I am an artist, art teacher, and adventurer. Corvallis, Oregon is where I call home. It’s beautiful here: green, lush, with friendly people, and somewhat soggy weather. I like to say I live in the shire because that really is what western Oregon looks like to me, with its rolling hills, meadows, and forests. Yet, all this beauty can’t keep me here all the time. Like a wayward hobbit (and believe me, I eat like one too) I must go forth into the world and explore. I must break, somewhat, with tradition and go where no hobbit has been before, which is to say most of this big beautiful world we live in. Sometimes those adventures get a little messy but I have a couple tricks that help make everything go a little smoother. Visit my website or my blog to see what I’m up to these days!

The post Gear Review: CupCase, the Bra Protector appeared first on Her Packing List.

Natalie is traveling slow and low as she eats her way around the world with Pasture Braised, a food and travel blog she co-authors with her fiancé, Cliff.

What’s your backpack brand and model? How much does this backpack typically cost?

I’m packing the REI Vagabond Tour 40L. It costs $149 at REI.

How long have you had your backpack and where have you traveled with it?

I’ve been carrying my Vagabond a couple of months: on a flight from San Francisco to Central America, on busses and 4WD vehicles from North West Costa Rica through Panama, and on a 43 foot sailboat from the San Blas Islands to Cartagena, Colombia.

What factors were most important to you in choosing a backpack? How did you come to choose this one?

Size. The best packing advice I’ve heard is to “pack half as much stuff and twice as much money”. For years I traveled with an REI Venus 65, thinking that big adventures called for equally big packs. For our RTW, we both wanted to be as light and nimble as possible. I’d also been bothered by the way the Venus brain compartment bumped my brain—I wanted a bag that didn’t come as far up my head.

I’ll admit that looks mattered to me, too. This bag is my main accessory for 16 months, and I want to look the least ridiculous and overly “backpackery” as possible. My fiancé packs the Osprey Porter 46L and is obsessed. He strongly suggested I go the same route, but I just couldn’t get down with its bulky duffle design. I love that the Vagabond could double as an overachieving freshman’s book bag.

What do you like most about your backpack? Any down sides?

I love the Vagabond’s aforementioned size, portability, and no nonsense look. Even the name makes me want to throw it on and hit the road.

The Vagabond’s top features include:

• A single top-loading main compartment with two compression straps to maximize storage space (you can fit a surprising amount in 40L)
• A zippered mesh pocket that runs inside the length of the front-loading pocket that houses my personal “kitchen sink”
• A compact brain that never slips out of position and includes an attached waterproof document carrier
• A horizontal haul handle that makes grabbing the pack out from under a bus or off a baggage kiosk a synch; the pack is also light enough to carry by this handle for a short walk
• Two side pockets for last minute add-ons that don’t disrupt the bag’s lines when left empty

Future upgrades could include:

• A third compression strap, but that’s really splitting hairs

Tell us about the fit and comfort level of your backpack.

The Vagabond fits like a glove. Its size is great for my height (5’6″). The shoulder straps are well padded and don’t trouble my shoulders (even in a tank top and sweltering Central American heat). Even packed to capacity, it’s light enough that I don’t often think to use the waist or chest straps.

If you want to take your backpack as carry-on luggage, can you?

I could, but so far we haven’t taken any flights that charge checked bag fees.

Have you found the size to be too small, just right, or too large?

Just right. Although I tend to pack as much as I have space for, so I’d love to see how my packing would conform to a 35 or even 30L bag.

Overall, would you recommend your backpack?

Definitely. Choosing a backpack is really personal, but the Vagabond works like a charm for me.

>> Read more about how to pick a backpack.

* * * * *
About the Author: Natalie pens the travel food blog PastureBraised.com. She loves all things ocean based, Instagram, and often the two combined. Pasture Braised is currently documenting food culture and travel stories in Central and South America, Europe, North Africa, India and South East Asia. Follow Natalie at: Pasturebraised.com, Facebook, and Instagram.

The post Meet Natalie Purbrick and her REI Vagabond Tour 40L appeared first on Her Packing List.

Hi, I’m Kimi Sugiyama, a girl with one foot in multiple worlds. I’m a Detroit native that has been traveling the world since June 2012 looking for big adventures on a small budget. After quitting my job, I’m now the chief comfort zone demolisher at Wandering Souldier and working my way towards a location independent lifestyle.

What’s your backpack brand and model? How much does this backpack typically cost?

My backpack is a Guerrilla Pack Voltij – 55L. Typically, it costs $220 USD, but it’s on sale right now for $150. Last year, I think I bought it for around $120. Check back on the official website every couple of weeks because they seem to have frequent discounts available.

>> Check out the Guerrilla Pack Voltij backpack on Amazon.

How long have you had your backpack and where have you traveled with it?

I’ve had my backpack for almost a year now. So far, it’s traveled with me to 10 different countries throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. We’re about to hit the road together again in Ireland, Japan, China, North Korea, and Philippines.

What factors were most important to you in choosing a backpack? How did you come to choose this one?

Since this was my first official backpack, the five most important qualities were cost, durability, accessibility, comfort, and storage room. I definitely did my fair share of browsing through REI’s selection of sturdy backpacks, but after recommendations from a few travel buddies, I decided to go with a Guerrilla Pack. It hasn’t steered me wrong yet.

Guerrilla Pack Voltij 55

What do you like most about your backpack? Any down sides?

For starters, it’s red, my favorite color. It has front and top loading so I don’t have to unpack everything and can just go in and grab what I need. There are two water bottle holders on the sides, a compass, padded shoulder straps and back support, and multiple compartments within the backpack itself. Additionally, there’s a front belt that straps around the waist so if someone tries to snag it off my back, they can’t do it without taking me with them. Lastly, it looks low-end/rugged enough that nobody would be tempted to steal anything from it, at first glance.

So far, the two downsides I’ve noticed are that there are a lot of straps and the material used for the top compartments can tear easily. When I move around or check my backpack at the airport, I always have to make sure the straps are tucked in so they don’t get caught on anything.

Tell us about the fit and comfort level of your backpack.

It fits my tall frame well. It doesn’t hang below my hips, and I can adjust the straps for an extra snug fit so it’s easy to twist, turn, and run to catch my train. Plus, the padding makes it easier and more comfortable on my shoulders and back, when I have to stand for long periods of time. I know not everyone will have the same experience, but it’s comfortable enough for me that I often forget it’s there.

If you want to take your backpack as carry-on luggage, can you?

I’ve always checked my backpack so I have less to haul around at the airport, but yes, I could if I wanted to.

Have you found the size to be too small, just right, or too large?

For me, it is just right, but I will say it has extra pockets and small compartments I never seem to use. They’re handy to have, if I pick up any miscellaneous souvenirs along the way, otherwise, I just leave them empty. Don’t have to carry more with me than I need.

Overall, would you recommend your backpack?

Yes, definitely, but I would say it’s better suited for people with a taller upper body. Overall, it’s easy to move around with, easy to access my belongings, and durable.

Thanks to Kimi for sharing about her backpack. You can follow her worldly adventures at Wandering Souldier, and on Twitter and Facebook.

The post Meet Kimi Sugiyama and Her Guerrilla Pack Voltij 55 appeared first on Her Packing List.

But on your travels it is even more essential, potentially serving as a carry on bag and backpack in one. Important features include some sort of theft protection and comfortable straps for long wear. It’s also a good idea to have a cross body feature so that it is harder to pull off your shoulder. The last thing you need is to get your bag stolen. We’ve discussed whether or not you should travel with a purse, but if you decide that you want to, here are our picks for top travel purses that are both functional and cute!

PacSafe Citysafe 400 GII Hobo Bag

Check out the Pacsafe Citysafe 400 GII Hobo Bag on Amazon.

• Pros: lots of colors, zipper clips, compartments
• Cons: strap adjustments

Travelon Anti Theft Purse

Get the Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger on Amazon.

• Pros: zipper clip, slash proof strap, multiple compartments, expandable pockets
• Cons: long strap length

Manhattan Portage Vintage Messenger Bag Jr.

Check out the official site.

• Pros: simple design, clasp, size
• Cons: shoulder strap isn’t very comfortable

Keen Brooklyn II Travel Bag

Check out the Keen Brooklyn II bag on Amazon.

• Pros: plenty of pockets, made from recycled aluminum
• Cons: few color choices

Tom Bihn Small Cafe Bag

Check out the official website.

• Pros: clips for organizing pouches, key strap, sturdy nylon
• Cons: cost

What Should You Carry In Your Purse?

While traveling, here are a few items that I recommend always carrying with you. Some items can be substituted if you have a smartphone.

• A map of your destination, which you can typically pick up for free at the visitor’s center
• The address to your hostel or hotel, ideally a business card
• Pen and paper
• Copy of some form of identification, preferably passport
• Bandaids in case of blisters
• Sunglasses
• Lip balm
• Hand sanitizer or wet wipes
• Scarf for churches or other religious sites

What’s your favorite travel purse, and what do you carry in yours while traveling?

The post Our Top 5 Travel Purses appeared first on Her Packing List.

Nieke and her Quechua Forclaz 60

Hi! I’m Nienke [neen-kuh] from Amsterdam. I’ve always camped with my family in Europe and started travelling solo to Asia and Oceania in 2006. The last 2 years, I’ve lived in Sydney where I worked as a Hostel Receptionist and Travel Agent. I’ve seen many different backpacks and suitcases during that time! On my blog, I focus on travel memories through photos, stories and souvenirs. I interview travel bloggers about their childhood travel memories and am very active on Pinterest, where my Travel Style Boards seem to be most popular. You can also find me as a HPL Pinner for the Camping Board.

What’s your backpack brand and model? How much does this backpack typically cost?

I have a green Quechua Forclaz 60. This backpack costs around 45 Pounds (52 Euros, 68 US Dollar, 66 AUS Dollar).

How long have you had your backpack and where have you traveled with it?

I bought this backpack for my second world trip in 2008 and I took it to the UK, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal and India.

What factors were most important to you in choosing a backpack? How did you come to choose this one?

I wanted a big pack, minimum of 60 litres, as my previous backpack was a lot smaller. I also looked specifically for a ‘front loader’ backpack, instead of one that can only be accessed from the top. The fabric from my last pack was quite stiff and didn’t give much, so I liked that this one was a bit more flexible. I believe this pack was on sale when I bought it as well, so it made my choice easy.

What do you like most about your backpack? Any down sides?

I like the fact that I can open the (very strong) front zipper to get into my bag without taking everything out, but I would’ve preferred a zipper that goes all around, as the new Forclaz 60 model has.

Pocket-wise, I use the ones on the side and top most, as they are quite big. There are two gauze pockets on the bottom side of the bag that I never seem to use, I would’ve liked them to be a zippered pocket instead. I do like the flat pocket inside, ideal for storing documents. There is also a separate bottom compartment (ideal for shoes/dirty clothes) and a ‘secret’ zip pocket on the inside of the top, good for storing spare money, etc.

You can strap a sleeping bag to the bottom of the pack, which I don’t think is very handy, as you can’t put your bag on the floor in that case. I usually use the straps on front of the bag to tie my sleeping bag to.

Tell us about the fit and comfort level of your backpack.

Carrying this backpack is quite comfortable, even with me pushing it to 20-30 kilos. The waist band is thickly padded and wide and the shoulder straps are adjustable, as well as the frame on the back, which you can set according to your height.

If you want to take your backpack as carry-on luggage, can you?

No, I think it will be too big.

Have you found the size to be too small, just right, or too large?

As a person who always takes too much, I’d say it’s a bit small for me. I always seem to strap extra items to the top, front and bottom of the pack and I usually fill my flight bag with additional loose items. Next time I might buy a bigger size, but if you’re a more sensible packer than me, you will probably have enough space with this one.

Overall, would you recommend your backpack?

I’ve been dragging this pack around the world for about 5 years now and it doesn’t show any signs of wear and tear yet. Well worth the money for me. I will use it a couple years more, hopefully.

Thanks to Nienke for sharing her backpack. You can read about her adventures on her blog, The Travel Tester, and on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

The post Meet Nienke Krook and Her Quechua Forclaz 60 appeared first on Her Packing List.

What’s your backpack brand and model? How much does this backpack typically cost?

My backpack is from Vaude which is a German brand. The model is Cimone 45+10L in colour sangria. It costs between $150 and $190. I paid €169 for it in Munich.

>> Search for Vaude backpacks on Amazon

How long have you had your backpack and where have you traveled with it?

I’ve only had it for three months as I bought it specifically for my RTW trip later this year. So far it’s been to Munich with me and on a few weekend trips in the UK.

What factors were most important to you in choosing a backpack? How did you come to choose this one?

There were a few things I knew I had to have and that I wouldn’t compromise on. The most important factor was the size. I am quite petit and not very strong so I wanted a pack that was between 40 and 50L. This one is 45L (can be extended to 55L), so the perfect size.

It is a panel loading pack which means that I can access the main compartment from a front panel and from the top. This makes rummaging in my pack so much easier if I need something that’s right at the bottom (whatever you’re looking for, it’s always at the bottom).

It also has a separate compartment at the bottom which is great for keeping things separate in the pack, like dirty laundry or smelly hiking boots.

I know it’s silly and it shouldn’t be about looks when it comes to a backpack, but I also liked this one because of its colour. It’s called sangria but it is pink really.

The detachable wash bag component.

What do you like most about your backpack? Any down sides?

What I like best is an additional feature which I didn’t even know existed before I saw this pack. The lid of the pack is removable and doubles up as a hanging wash bag! It has two mesh compartments, a mirror attached with Velcro so I can do my make-up and a metal hook so I can hang it on the doors of grimy hostel bathrooms and don’t have to balance it on the sink/toilet lid/floor.

The only down side is that there could be another compression strap on the outside, but you can always buy one and attach it.

Tell us about the fit and comfort level of your backpack.

The straps and hip belt are really thickly padded which makes the pack really comfortable to wear. Even with around 11kg in it I can easily carry it for 30 minutes to an hour without problems. The weight is really balanced on my hips.

If you want to take your backpack as carry-on luggage, can you?

It’s a squeeze but it is possible. I’ve tried it on my flight from Munich and it did fit in the measuring box.

Have you found the size to be too small, just right, or too large?

It is a perfect size for me, 45L, which means I will fit everything I need but it’s not so big that I can fill it up with lots of stuff I won’t need.

Overall, would you recommend your backpack?

Yes, I would definitely recommend this pack. And if you don’t like pink, it also comes in blue and brown.

About the Author: Hi, my name is Jenny. I am from Munich but have lived in London for the last 4 years to do my PhD. After nearly ten years of studying chemistry I decided to swap my lab coat for a backpack and embark on a year-long RTW trip. You can follow my adventures on my blog JennyRTW, Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

The post Meet JennyRTW and Her Vaude Cimone 45+10L appeared first on Her Packing List.

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.

The post Meet Georgina Young and Her Eurohike Hydro 35+5 appeared first on Her Packing List.