Shopping To Enjoy My Free Time

Backpacking is a great way to see the world affordably when you are young. There's something magical about bringing only what you need along with you on your back and hopping from country to country. But there is a packing challenge you'll encounter along the way. When you're going on a day trip to a nearby city or attraction, you'll need some things... but you won't want to bring along your big, travel backpack to carry just those few essentials.

What you really need, in cases like this, is a city backpack or daypack. Here are some tips for choosing such a backpack, along with some advice for packing it for the day.

Choosing a Backpack

A backpack you'll use just for day trips can be small. In fact, it can be the size of a backpack you would have carried to school in kindergarten. You want it to be made from a lightweight material, but you also want that material to be sturdy. (It would be a shame to have the pack rip halfway through the day!) Canvas is a good choice. Look for canvas that has been treated with a waterproofing agent if you'll be traveling in destinations that get rainy.

The ideal city backpack should close in a way that allows you to lock it. If it unzips in both directions and you can lock the zippers together, that works well. Make sure the pack also has a waist strap. Without this feature, it may start to feel heavy and uncomfortable on your shoulders as the day wears on.

Packing Your City Backpack

Once you have the perfect backpack in-hand, here are some things you'll want to place inside of it.

Extra socks will come in handy if your feet get wet or sweaty. Also, pack an extra pair of underwear, a hat (if you're not wearing it), sunscreen, and an umbrella. If it's colder outside, a pashmina or large scarf will come in handy as it can double as a blanket or shawl as needed.

If you have maps of the local area, stick them in your pack in case your smartphone connection is spotty. Your phone charger, camera, and earphones are good electronics to pack. Include a few snacks and a bottle of water or two, as well. 

If you'll be sitting on a train or a bus for a while, bring along a book or magazine to keep yourself busy.

With the right pack and the right things inside, your day of exploration will be so much fun. For more information on finding a peacock print city backpack, contact your local retailers.