Rucksacks will probably be the single most important purchase you will make before hitting the road. www.rucksacks-rucksack.co.uk It can be your best friend or worst enemy, depending on which one you pick. With that in mind, here are a few pointers to consider when choosing one. http Rucksizes size IS Important Before choosing a pack, have an idea of whats going to go in it. Visualise the contents, understand your needs, and shortlist a range of rucksacks accordingly. The shortlist should contain rucksacks big enough for the largest loads you will carry, but no bigger - as the larger the pack, the more you may be inclined to fill it. But dont go too small either, as an overloaded pack may feel uncomfortable and unstable, and may force you to have to secure extra gear on the outside thus increasing the risk of loss or damage. The choices on offer can be put into the following categories:- Daypacks (15 - 35L) - Small packs with minimal or no internal frame to support loads, so all weight is transferred through shoulder straps. Perfect for day trips and shorter outings. Alpine Packs (35 - 55L) and Backpacking Packs (55 - 75L) This will be the area to concentrate in for a backpacking or RTW trip. If possible, the smaller alpine pack. Both offer many of the comprehensive features of larger rucksacks whilst keeping physical weight and size to a minimum. Expedition Rucksacks (75 - 100L) These packs are huge. Possibly necessary for trips involving many climate changes for those ...