Any recommendations for a good backpack?

[Ratpack]

We need a good backpack for our upcoming trip. Would prefer something light but durable. Usually the only things we carry are some snacks, our DSLR when not in use, drink mixes, and so forth.

 

[kay1864]

I bought this shoulder pack just before Xmas on amazon. Tried it in Feb (instead of my usual backpack) and it worked great! Holds smartphone in the (front) strap, and water bottle in the side mesh pocket. Also didn't have to constantly slip both arms in/out of the straps, as I did with the old backpack.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PPY5SDU

 

[Ratpack]

Thanks, that looks like it may do the trick. I will have DW to take a look at it as she is usually the one carrying it.

 

[gap2368]

this is what I use http://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/magellan-outdoors-pinejack-hiking-backpack?repChildCatid=653954

I like it because it has a waste strap ( I have a bad back and need something on both solders and also my hips to take the pressor off my back)

it was 2 main compartments the normal one and then in the from another one ( the normal compartment is cut in half in the bottom by a zipper section so you can have it open or close. with it closed you can find things so much easer since nothing is in the very bottom of the bag)

it comes with a rain cover

two big water pouches

two small pouches in the waste band part ( and I do men small think maybe 2 or 3 credit cards in each )

 

[kayemgi]

We love this backpack from Eddie Bauer. Super lightweight, folds into its own pocket for storage, and the side pockets and front loops are great for carrying items for which you want easy access. Plus it's always going on sale! We got it for only $15.

 

[J'Adore Disney]

I proudly wear a Rapunzel backpack I bought at the Disney Store, it's very durable!! Sure, it's meant to be used by school kids, but when I'm "home," I'm a Child at heart. Now if you want a more low-key back-pack, Jansport or Columbia brand backpacks are sturdy and full of neat little compartments.

 

[velvetsqueeze]

I'm a fan of marathon backpacks. Lightweight, designed for wearing a long time, properly designed pockets. Don't get a black one, though. Your back will cook!

 

[mickeyluv'r]

Now if you want a more low-key back-pack, Jansport or Columbia brand backpacks are sturdy and full of neat little compartments.

If I have to have a bag at all, I MUCH prefer one compartment. I don't want to be the person holding up the line at bag check.

I used to bring a mini Jansport backpack, but as we walked, the zipper would slowly un-zip, and stuff fell out. I tried clipping the zipper shut, but that was a pain.

I've tried inexpensive drawstring bags. Bonus- you won't care if it gets lost. Downside- the string straps dig into your shoulders after a while. If you find one of the new hybrid ones with wider shoulder straps, those can work.

Our main strategy is to minimize what we carry. The second strategy we try to employ as much as possible is using just pockets. Guys' cargo shorts are great at WDW.

I've tried almost every bag over the years. Any bag = having to stop at gate check. Not a huge time loss, but I love the freedom of avoiding it! Summer = bottled water though. Big bags are tiring. Big bags+heat= sweaty back.

Backpacks have to come off your back for most rides, so that's my other reason for avoiding them. If I must carry a bag, I prefer a small crossbody bag. It never has to leave my side. Just drape over my shoulder and forget.

That said....we also own a small backpack cooler. Mostly we only use it outside the parks (beach trips), but it is nice if you want to keep food cool for a few hours. I found it at Target; the "Picnic Time PTX" looks like it. The straps are padded and it only has two pouches to unzip. It also has drink holders on the sides. If we bring it, we all take turns.

 

[mickeyluv'r]

I've developed a number of strategies for minimizing. One product I like is a sunscreen stick. It is only about the size of a glue stick (i.e. same length as chapstick, but wider) In the morning at the room, we apply normal 50spf spray or lotion. The stick is just for to reapply or if someone forgets, but it is delightfully compact!

I'm also a fan of:
-snack size ziplock bag. Plus the new style called portion control. (same size, but the zip is on the short end vs. long side.)

-the mini Altoid tin. Mints+ handy for a tiny supply of OTC meds if need be.

-mini-Sharpie. 1,000 uses. Note gift card balances, and label cups.

-.05 ounce hand sanitizer. From Staples. Refill as needed. Rarely use to clean hands. Disinfects cuts, erases sharpie, etc.

 

[tileman]

I use this one have held up for years and holds a ton of stuff.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ESKY9FU/ref=twister_B004FVMKV2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

 

[PeasandCarrots]

I use a very small Osprey day hiker backpack. But they come in all sizes. I love it because I'm short & it fits me without hanging too low. It's also got a chest & waist strap that keep it from bouncing around all day when walking. Perfect size. It's very similar to the one below only mine is black.

http://www.amazon.com/Osprey-Daylit...words=backpack+osprey&refinements=p_89:Osprey

 

[MeganMango]

I used this one! It fit my camera (not a dslr but a similar size), my phone, park maps, spare phone charger, and a few granola bars). Held up for 6 days and it's still in perfect condition. Only $15 too!


http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00NNEUYI8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1458584589&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=amusement+park+bag&dpPl=1&dpID=41qPUk+f8nL&ref=plSrch