Summarize:

Check the zippers on your backpack to see if they have a hole where you can place a lock. Don’t put a lock through the tags on your zippers since they can easily be broken off. If you plan on traveling with your backpack through busy areas, invest in locks so no one can steal your belongings. If you’re taking your bag through an airport, make sure you use a lock that’s TSA-approved. Backpacks that have a basic color, such as black or brown, are easier for thieves to steal since they don’t have any distinguishing features. Look for backpacks that have reflective strips or bright colors so you can identify it as your own and stay safe while you travel. If your bag doesn’t have any built-in colors, use ribbons or neon duct tape on parts of your bag so you can see it from a distance. Keep in mind how you’re primarily using the backpack to determine what sort of storage you need. For example, you may want separate sections for dirty and clean clothes or a laptop sleeve to hold protect your valuables. Compressions straps are buckles used to hold your materials tightly so they don’t take up as much space. When you pack your bag, use the compression straps to hold down soft items, such as clothes. Tighten the straps to condense your things so you can put more on top. If your bag doesn’t have compression straps, then you can also buy compression cubes to put in your bag instead. Some larger travel backpacks have smaller packs attached that you can remove. That way, you don’t need to carry all of your belongings everywhere you go. Instead, you can leave your larger bag where you’re staying and travel light during the day. Not every travel backpack will have a removable day pack.
Look for backpacks with lockable zippers to keep your belongings safe. Use a bag that has an eye-catching color so you can recognize it. Check for useful pockets and compartments inside your bag. Try a bag with compression straps to pack more items. Get a removable day pack if you don’t want to carry your large bag everywhere.