luggage/backpacks for long term, rugged world travel - GoFuckYourself.com

quiet · 01-26-2005, 06:31 PM

i know many of you like to travel, some very extensively. i'm planning on downgrading my laptop to something very small, and taking off for quite some time (1 - 2 years minimum). i've always used backpacks for lugging around my laptop/camera/cords/clothes/etc. i'm currently using this:

http://spireusa.com/products/ME5.html

which is just big enough for taking everything i need, but gets a bit uncomfortable on my lower back when loaded up to the max. other than that, i love this backpack.

i was looking at this:

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_d...=1106510006780

as it breaks down into 2 rolling luggage + smaller day pack for getting on planes, but still meets airline onboard luggage restrictions. will also easily fit a small (12 inch) laptop in the day pack.

my main issues boil down to comfort (my lower back gets sore pretty easily), not checking any luggage, and being able to take everything 'on my back' to remote locations without any issues. i plan on going to many places where i will have to travel for hours or even days, on foot or via antiquated transit. what do you use/recommend for traveling?

thanks

Juicy D. Links · 01-26-2005, 06:32 PM

those things arent big enough for my hairdryer and cologne :-O(

Sly · 01-26-2005, 06:41 PM

It looks pretty good actually, I really like it but have no experience with it. Looks very functional.

Will you be working from the road or do you have other plans with your business?

Sosa · 01-26-2005, 06:41 PM

those are nice, but I think I would need something a lot bigger.

Where do you plan on going?

Shoplifter · 01-26-2005, 06:47 PM

A backpack? Get real. I was thinking this is more suited to you:

01-26-2005, 06:55 PM

I don't usually bring backpacks when I travel, but I only buy Tumi luggage so I'm assuming their backpacks are just as good as everything else they sell.

http://www.tumi.com/search/index.cfm...link=backpacks

triumph · 01-26-2005, 07:00 PM

what about work?

quiet · 01-26-2005, 07:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sly

It looks pretty good actually, I really like it but have no experience with it. Looks very functional.

Will you be working from the road or do you have other plans with your business?

i think so too. but without actually seeing it, it's kind of hard to decide. working? work sucks!! ;)

quiet · 01-26-2005, 07:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sosa

those are nice, but I think I would need something a lot bigger.

Where do you plan on going?

i always amaze everyone with my packing skillz lol. i also agree with the saying 'bring twice the money and half the clothes'. i'm planning on going pretty much everywhere, eventually. currently, i'm thinking i'll head to Northern Italy to start, and just move on from there.

latinasojourn · 01-26-2005, 07:10 PM

well if you are flying internationally you know that weight requirements differ by airline, and you'll want to consider your carrryon luggage with care.

and if you have to move around in big terminals having a roller bag is nice, and most backpacks aren't setup that way.

check out the lowepro line---very well made stuff for carryon valuables like laptops, cameras, etc.

i've tried a bunch of different brands and have found nothing better.

alias · 01-26-2005, 07:27 PM

lowe alpine

hey, you might look like a climber or hippy but maybe a low profile is not such a bad idea

also probably not too many steal or raid those type of bags when they are out of your hands [they figure wtf is gonna be in there.. .]

anyway, it is tough good quality gear

Pornwolf · 01-26-2005, 07:40 PM

Tumi. Nuff said.

Rorschach · 01-26-2005, 07:46 PM

quiet it sounds like you are living the dream

quiet · 01-27-2005, 01:22 AM

Kimmykim · 01-27-2005, 01:33 AM

I love Kipling bags -- http://www.worldtraveler.com/jump.js...=1%2C3%2 C496

and the OGIO backpack that Sexsearch gave out in Curacao is awesome too, so I'd definitely buy their products. http://ogio.com

Kimmykim · 01-27-2005, 01:34 AM

OH and Swiss Army Victorinox rocks too --

http://www.worldtraveler.com/jump.js...ORY&itemID=545

SleazyDream · 01-27-2005, 01:37 AM

very cool idea, i like the philosphy your displaying.

i'm going to have to ambush you soon on here.

never let the things you own own you. less is more.

reynold · 01-27-2005, 02:56 AM

Nice bags, but I like bigger ones.

DWB · 01-27-2005, 03:53 AM

I spend more time on the road than I do at home. Here are a few things I know...

1) Rollers are a must.
2) NEVER check luggage.
3) As few bags as possible, only 1 if you can.
4) Do not overpack that 1 bag.
5) Take enough for 4 days only. 2 shorts (can zip into pants), 2 pants...
6) Be careful of the socks you choose. Invest in quality hiking socks.
7) Keep a copy of your credit cards or any other IDs seperate from the real ones.
8) Only carry as much cash as your willing to lose. ATMs give better rates anyway.
9) Since some places you must cary cash... split it up so you don't lose it all if robbed.
10) First aid kit. A good one and add antibiotics to it. You can by all that over seas.
11) 1 big ass lock. You never know where you will be sleeping... not all doors lock.
12) Mini flashlight. This has saved my ass many a night in island black outs.
13) 100% Deet.
14) Make sure you get your visas lined out ahead of time.
15) Good hiking boots.
16) Imodium!!! Don't forget this one... it's a must have.
17) See #16
18) Travel wet wipes for your ass. Ya never know when it's gonna hit. :-(
19) A good book. Those bus rides and 12 hour airport layovers suck ass.
20) A few pics of your friends and family. Good for conversation when talking with locals.

Enjoy your travels.

Rui · 01-27-2005, 03:55 AM

quiet - where do you plan to go to?

Corona · 01-27-2005, 04:01 AM

21) A Maple Leaf patch. People will be less likely to want to kill you if they know you are not American.

DomBuyer · 01-27-2005, 07:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DirtyWhiteBoy

I spend more time on the road than I do at home. Here are a few things I know...

1) Rollers are a must.
2) NEVER check luggage.
3) As few bags as possible, only 1 if you can.
4) Do not overpack that 1 bag.
5) Take enough for 4 days only. 2 shorts (can zip into pants), 2 pants...
6) Be careful of the socks you choose. Invest in quality hiking socks.
7) Keep a copy of your credit cards or any other IDs seperate from the real ones.
8) Only carry as much cash as your willing to lose. ATMs give better rates anyway.
9) Since some places you must cary cash... split it up so you don't lose it all if robbed.
10) First aid kit. A good one and add antibiotics to it. You can by all that over seas.
11) 1 big ass lock. You never know where you will be sleeping... not all doors lock.
12) Mini flashlight. This has saved my ass many a night in island black outs.
13) 100% Deet.
14) Make sure you get your visas lined out ahead of time.
15) Good hiking boots.
16) Imodium!!! Don't forget this one... it's a must have.
17) See #16
18) Travel wet wipes for your ass. Ya never know when it's gonna hit. :-(
19) A good book. Those bus rides and 12 hour airport layovers suck ass.
20) A few pics of your friends and family. Good for conversation when talking with locals.

Enjoy your travels.

Good advice, thanks..

onlymovies · 01-27-2005, 08:23 AM

It's all about Tumi luggage. My partner turned me onto them years ago. Best travel investment i've made so far.

0000000000000000000001000 · 01-27-2005, 08:40 AM

Check out http://www.haglofs.se/ - check out the CLIMBER 40 bags.

swedguy · 01-27-2005, 08:43 AM

I always use backpacks when I travel. I just so convenient.

When I got a pack for my round the world trip (which never happened, unfortunately) I was around in every store in northern Ca. The only one that fit my back (I have a curvy back) and was comfortable loaded was Dana Design's backpacks.
When ever you decide how much stuff you're going to bring and find a good size pack that will fit it, go one size smaller and toss out some stuff. You will end up not using half and you will save your feet and back.
Also make sure get GOOD shoes with soles that are made for your feet.

http://www.danadesign.com/packs/

Good luck man

OzMan · 01-27-2005, 09:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DomBuyer

Good advice, thanks..

I second that. Excellent advice.

The only thing I could add would be a soft thin money belt that goes around your waist inside your clothes for your cash, CC and passport. Sleep with it, bring it into the shower with you etc unless you are gonna be five star hoteliing it all the way. Keep some cash in your pocket for minor expenses and to give out if you are robbed.

I started my world travels from Australia in 1985, through China, did the Trans-Siberian railway across Mongolia and USSR(then) to Europe, worked in Europe for a few years and ended up in USA.

I think the most important rule is carry as little as possible. After travelling for a few weeks you will be able to throw out/give away even more stuff you don't really use.

I met a Canadian guy in a youth hostel in Hong Kong that was coming the other way. He had just a shoulder bag and was doing just fine. I ignored his advice and ended up having to get acupunture treatment in China for a fucked up back.

Good luck

quiet · 01-27-2005, 01:49 PM

wow, thanks for all the great ideas. i'm be going through all of these sites tonight.

TheMob · 01-27-2005, 01:54 PM

That sounds great. I want to travel too.

swedguy · 01-27-2005, 02:11 PM

I might get myself a new travel buddy, Dana Design Far Flung. 10 liter bigger than the one I have, looks more snug to the back, a small day pack and a travel duffle is included (no more torn straps and buckles after it has gone through the luggage monster at the airports).

quiet · 02-02-2005, 09:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OzMan

I second that. Excellent advice.

The only thing I could add would be a soft thin money belt that goes around your waist inside your clothes for your cash, CC and passport. Sleep with it, bring it into the shower with you etc unless you are gonna be five star hoteliing it all the way. Keep some cash in your pocket for minor expenses and to give out if you are robbed.

I started my world travels from Australia in 1985, through China, did the Trans-Siberian railway across Mongolia and USSR(then) to Europe, worked in Europe for a few years and ended up in USA.

I think the most important rule is carry as little as possible. After travelling for a few weeks you will be able to throw out/give away even more stuff you don't really use.

I met a Canadian guy in a youth hostel in Hong Kong that was coming the other way. He had just a shoulder bag and was doing just fine. I ignored his advice and ended up having to get acupunture treatment in China for a fucked up back.

Good luck

what kind of shoulder bag do you recommend? a messenger bag? i definitely want to travel extremely light. so i guess you recommend just hitting the cleaners to keep your clothes fresh?

quiet · 02-03-2005, 01:21 AM

bump.....

Persius · 02-03-2005, 01:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kimmykim

OH and Swiss Army Victorinox rocks too --

http://www.worldtraveler.com/jump.js...ORY&itemID=545

i have this

sonofsam · 02-03-2005, 01:25 AM

some great advice, bookmarked for summertime

quiet · 02-03-2005, 01:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Persius

i have this

which one?

DWB · 02-03-2005, 01:38 AM

One more very important thing to add:

Make sure you have ANY shots you may need for any country you are going to. You also want to cross refernce what countries you can come and go from without certian vacciantions. For example, a yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required if going into Brazil from Venezuela, Peru or Colombia. That sort of thing you want to check out AHEAD of time so you don't fuck yourself.

01-26-2005, 06:41 PM	#3
Sly Let's do some business! Industry Role: Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Austin, TX Posts: 31,329	It looks pretty good actually, I really like it but have no experience with it. Looks very functional. Will you be working from the road or do you have other plans with your business? __________________ Vacares - Web Hosting, Domains, O365, Security & More - Paxum and BTC Accepted Windows VPS now available Great for TSS, Nifty Stats, remote work, virtual assistants, etc. Click here for more details.

01-26-2005, 07:27 PM	#11
alias aliasx Join Date: Apr 2001 Posts: 19,010	lowe alpine hey, you might look like a climber or hippy but maybe a low profile is not such a bad idea also probably not too many steal or raid those type of bags when they are out of your hands [they figure wtf is gonna be in there.. .] anyway, it is tough good quality gear __________________ https://porncorporation.com

01-26-2005, 07:40 PM	#12
Pornwolf Drunk and Unruly Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Hollywood Posts: 22,712	Tumi. Nuff said. __________________ I've trusted my sites to them for over a decade... Webair, bitches.

01-27-2005, 01:22 AM	#14
quiet we'll miss you our friend. RIP Industry Role: Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Fernie, BC Posts: 25,115	__________________ we'll miss you our friend. RIP

01-27-2005, 01:37 AM	#17
SleazyDream I'm here for SPORT Industry Role: Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Phone # (401) 285-0696 Posts: 41,470	very cool idea, i like the philosphy your displaying. i'm going to have to ambush you soon on here. never let the things you own own you. less is more. __________________ This dog, is dog, a dog, good dog, way dog, to dog, keep dog, an dog, idiot dog, busy dog, for dog, 20 dog, seconds dog! Now read without the word dog.

01-26-2005, 06:31 PM	#1
quiet we'll miss you our friend. RIP Industry Role: Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Fernie, BC Posts: 25,115	luggage/backpacks for long term, rugged world travel i know many of you like to travel, some very extensively. i'm planning on downgrading my laptop to something very small, and taking off for quite some time (1 - 2 years minimum). i've always used backpacks for lugging around my laptop/camera/cords/clothes/etc. i'm currently using this: http://spireusa.com/products/ME5.html which is just big enough for taking everything i need, but gets a bit uncomfortable on my lower back when loaded up to the max. other than that, i love this backpack. i was looking at this: http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_d...=1106510006780 as it breaks down into 2 rolling luggage + smaller day pack for getting on planes, but still meets airline onboard luggage restrictions. will also easily fit a small (12 inch) laptop in the day pack. my main issues boil down to comfort (my lower back gets sore pretty easily), not checking any luggage, and being able to take everything 'on my back' to remote locations without any issues. i plan on going to many places where i will have to travel for hours or even days, on foot or via antiquated transit. what do you use/recommend for traveling? thanks __________________ we'll miss you our friend. RIP

01-26-2005, 06:32 PM	#2
Juicy D. Links So Fucking Banned Industry Role: Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: N.Y. -Long Island -- Posts: 122,992	those things arent big enough for my hairdryer and cologne :-O(

01-26-2005, 06:41 PM	#4
Sosa In Tushy Land Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Nebraska Posts: 40,149	those are nice, but I think I would need something a lot bigger. Where do you plan on going?

01-26-2005, 06:47 PM	#5
Shoplifter Richest man in Babylon Industry Role: Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Posts: 10,002 Posts: 5,725	A backpack? Get real. I was thinking this is more suited to you:

01-26-2005, 06:55 PM	#6
esnem Guest Posts: n/a	I don't usually bring backpacks when I travel, but I only buy Tumi luggage so I'm assuming their backpacks are just as good as everything else they sell. http://www.tumi.com/search/index.cfm...link=backpacks

01-26-2005, 07:00 PM	#7
triumph Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 3,433	what about work?

01-26-2005, 07:10 PM	#10
latinasojourn Confirmed User Join Date: Oct 2003 Posts: 3,191	well if you are flying internationally you know that weight requirements differ by airline, and you'll want to consider your carrryon luggage with care. and if you have to move around in big terminals having a roller bag is nice, and most backpacks aren't setup that way. check out the lowepro line---very well made stuff for carryon valuables like laptops, cameras, etc. i've tried a bunch of different brands and have found nothing better.

01-26-2005, 07:46 PM	#13
Rorschach So Fucking Banned Join Date: Aug 2002 Posts: 5,579	quiet it sounds like you are living the dream

01-27-2005, 01:33 AM	#15
Kimmykim bitchslapping zebras!!!!! Industry Role: Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: In a shack by the beach Posts: 16,015	I love Kipling bags -- http://www.worldtraveler.com/jump.js...=1%2C3%2 C496 and the OGIO backpack that Sexsearch gave out in Curacao is awesome too, so I'd definitely buy their products. http://ogio.com

01-27-2005, 01:34 AM	#16
Kimmykim bitchslapping zebras!!!!! Industry Role: Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: In a shack by the beach Posts: 16,015	OH and Swiss Army Victorinox rocks too -- http://www.worldtraveler.com/jump.js...ORY&itemID=545

01-27-2005, 02:56 AM	#18
reynold Too lazy to set a custom title Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Global Traveler Posts: 51,271	Nice bags, but I like bigger ones.

01-27-2005, 03:53 AM	#19
DWB Registered User Industry Role: Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Encrypted. Access denied. Posts: 31,779	I spend more time on the road than I do at home. Here are a few things I know... 1) Rollers are a must. 2) NEVER check luggage. 3) As few bags as possible, only 1 if you can. 4) Do not overpack that 1 bag. 5) Take enough for 4 days only. 2 shorts (can zip into pants), 2 pants... 6) Be careful of the socks you choose. Invest in quality hiking socks. 7) Keep a copy of your credit cards or any other IDs seperate from the real ones. 8) Only carry as much cash as your willing to lose. ATMs give better rates anyway. 9) Since some places you must cary cash... split it up so you don't lose it all if robbed. 10) First aid kit. A good one and add antibiotics to it. You can by all that over seas. 11) 1 big ass lock. You never know where you will be sleeping... not all doors lock. 12) Mini flashlight. This has saved my ass many a night in island black outs. 13) 100% Deet. 14) Make sure you get your visas lined out ahead of time. 15) Good hiking boots. 16) Imodium!!! Don't forget this one... it's a must have. 17) See #16 18) Travel wet wipes for your ass. Ya never know when it's gonna hit. :-( 19) A good book. Those bus rides and 12 hour airport layovers suck ass. 20) A few pics of your friends and family. Good for conversation when talking with locals. Enjoy your travels.

01-27-2005, 03:55 AM	#20
Rui web Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: On icq: 85-483-060 Posts: 9,533	quiet - where do you plan to go to?

01-27-2005, 04:01 AM	#21
Corona Confirmed User Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Third mall from the sun Posts: 2,185	21) A Maple Leaf patch. People will be less likely to want to kill you if they know you are not American. __________________ I was looking for a job, and then I found a job And heaven knows I'm miserable now

01-27-2005, 08:23 AM	#23
onlymovies Confirmed User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Southern California Posts: 906	It's all about Tumi luggage. My partner turned me onto them years ago. Best travel investment i've made so far. __________________ HomemadeVideoPass.com - High converting Homemade mega site! StolenPornVideos.com - The hottest site on the web converting like crazy! ReelPass.com - Offer your surfers 15+ exclusive movie sites for one low price

01-27-2005, 08:40 AM	#24
0000000000000000000001000 Confirmed User Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 243	Check out http://www.haglofs.se/ - check out the CLIMBER 40 bags.

01-27-2005, 08:43 AM	#25
swedguy Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Jan 2002 Posts: 7,981	I always use backpacks when I travel. I just so convenient. When I got a pack for my round the world trip (which never happened, unfortunately) I was around in every store in northern Ca. The only one that fit my back (I have a curvy back) and was comfortable loaded was Dana Design's backpacks. When ever you decide how much stuff you're going to bring and find a good size pack that will fit it, go one size smaller and toss out some stuff. You will end up not using half and you will save your feet and back. Also make sure get GOOD shoes with soles that are made for your feet. http://www.danadesign.com/packs/ Good luck man

01-27-2005, 01:49 PM	#27
quiet we'll miss you our friend. RIP Industry Role: Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Fernie, BC Posts: 25,115	wow, thanks for all the great ideas. i'm be going through all of these sites tonight. __________________ we'll miss you our friend. RIP

01-27-2005, 01:54 PM	#28
TheMob Confirmed User Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: 2006 Posts: 8,584	That sounds great. I want to travel too.

01-27-2005, 02:11 PM	#29
swedguy Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Jan 2002 Posts: 7,981	I might get myself a new travel buddy, Dana Design Far Flung. 10 liter bigger than the one I have, looks more snug to the back, a small day pack and a travel duffle is included (no more torn straps and buckles after it has gone through the luggage monster at the airports).

02-03-2005, 01:21 AM	#31
quiet we'll miss you our friend. RIP Industry Role: Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Fernie, BC Posts: 25,115	bump..... __________________ we'll miss you our friend. RIP

02-03-2005, 01:25 AM	#33
sonofsam Too lazy to set a custom title Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Vancouver Posts: 18,638	some great advice, bookmarked for summertime __________________ I like turtles.

02-03-2005, 01:38 AM	#35
DWB Registered User Industry Role: Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Encrypted. Access denied. Posts: 31,779	One more very important thing to add: Make sure you have ANY shots you may need for any country you are going to. You also want to cross refernce what countries you can come and go from without certian vacciantions. For example, a yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required if going into Brazil from Venezuela, Peru or Colombia. That sort of thing you want to check out AHEAD of time so you don't fuck yourself.