What the right backpack for me?

[Fkn Sexy]

Ok, so I'm totally new to this traveling accross the globe "thing" and I really have a lot of questions, most of which have been answered by reading this forum, however, I need to know what kind of backpack I should bring along. In July, I'm going through western Europe for a month and I don't know what kind of backpack I would need. I don't wanna get this huge, enorous pack and never use it. I'm a guy, whose gonna be traveling alone so what do you guys think I should purchase, from your experieces. Or better yet, what kind you you own?

[GoKrazy]

Welcome to the boards! There is a lot of info in the Packing Tips Forum, so go there and read up. From there you can look on the net for sites like eBags or Eagle Creek.

Choosing a backpack is very personal. There are a lot of factors you need to consider:
~ lenght of stay
~ your weight and height
~ do you pack light of heavy
~ what are you going to be using the backpack for in the future, etc.

Here is some of what I looked for when I chose my pack for a month in Europe:
- 50 L capacity (i'm a light packer)
- easy access through the zippered panel-loading flap (it opens up 3/4 of the pack)
- padded straps and hip belt
- adjustibility (straps, hip belt, suspension, etc.)
- fit (i tried the pack on in the store, asked for some weights to be put into it and i walked around for a bit - the ones that DIDN'T fit stood out immediately)
- i wanted a day pack (you might not want that)

Hope that helps!

[Elixir]

check out the smaller bags by Lowe Alpine, they have a great selection. if this is your only excursion (for the foreseen future) then dont be afraid to go cheap.

[Tadpole]

and don't be afraid to go expensive. Remeber, how many chances do you get to travel to Europe? Don't sacrifice comfort for a few extra dollars. Good investments in the right places make all the difference.