Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast and regular camper, or lockdown has put a stop to your usual travel plans and you’re now considering local camping trips for the first time, you’re going to need a tent for your next adventure. 

And if you’re planning on camping as a family, or with friends, a 4 room tent is going to give you the space you need to enjoy your trip in luxury — or as close to luxury as you can get while camping! 

What is a 4 Room Tent?

A 4 room tent isn’t the same as a 4 bedroom tent. These tents usually have a living area and 3 bedrooms, making up 4 rooms in total. With several sleeping pods, your children or friends can have their own bedroom — they’ll have plenty of privacy at nighttime and space to change, relax, and store their things so they don’t clutter up the living area.  

What to Look For in a 4 Room, 3 Bedroom Tent 

When I started searching for a tent that I could use for family camping trips, and road trips with friends, all I wanted was an article that detailed the best 4 room tents on the market and their pros and cos. But I couldn’t find much guidance. So, I started down a rabbit hole of research and after hours of searching so many different websites for three-bedroom tents, I eventually made a decision (I’ll reveal which tent I bought at the end of the article!). 

But in the process of searching for the right tent, I realized that there are so many different features to look out for. So, before we jump into looking at the best 4 room tents, here are some things you should look for when tent-hunting:

Durable Materials

With each adventure your tent is going to endure a lot of wear and tear. Low quality tents might leak in the rain, poles might snap or bend in strong winds, and sharp items on the ground can pierce the groundsheet. And one wrong move when pitching a low quality tent can cause the fabric to rip or stretch. 

So when searching a new 4 room tent, look for durable, higher-denier fabrics and strong poles that are built from lightweight steel or fiberglass. You want to be sure that your camping equipment will be able to take whatever the great outdoors throws at it.

Ventilation 

4 room tents are large in size, which is always great for hosting friends and family in the great outdoors. But often, when in-climate weather or humidity rolls in, these same tents can become muggy internally. That’s why you should always look for a model with reliable air vents that encourage air circulation. 

Waterproof Material 

The last thing you want is to have your camping trip ruined by a leaky tent. No one wants to spend their holiday damp and miserable. So when choosing your tent, check the Hydrostatic Head of the flysheet. You’ll see this as a number followed by ‘mm HH’. For example, you might see ‘6000mm HH’ on a tent that will withstand heavy rain, strong winds and even snow.  

A sewn in groundsheet can also go a long way toward keeping you dry during a sudden summer storm. Just be careful if you use a footprint groundsheet underneath your tent — make sure the footprint is smaller than your tent, if it pokes out, it can collect rainfall and cause a pool of water beneath your tent. This can damage your tent and make an uncomfortable stay. 

Loops and Pockets

Don’t overlook the small details in a 4 person tent. For example, you may not think that you need internal pockets in your tent. But in practice, these can help you and your family stay organized without taking up extra floor space.

Similarly, loops designed to hold lanterns can make your life much easier — you won’t have to worry about constantly holding up a torch to get ready to play at https://raging-bull-casino.org/ or find your way out of the door on midnight toilet runs.

The Best 4 Room Tents for Family Camping

If you’re currently on a hunt for the best 4 room tent for your family’s next camping trip, then you’ve come to the right place. My deep dive into this market has given me an opportunity to learn which models on the market today stand out from the pack. The following collection is just a few of the best models that you should consider investing in:

1: Berghaus Air 6XL 

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The Berghaus Air 6XL is a real palace of a tent. As the largest of the popular Berghaus Air range, it has a huge living area, three spacious bedrooms and it’s high enough that you can stand up in any area.

The tent has big windows that let a lot of natural light in during the day, and blinds can be rolled down to offer privacy and darkness at night. The sleeping pods are made from a darkened material so you don’t have to worry about being woken up by sunrise and the sleeping space can also be customised giving you the option of a single 6-person bedroom, a 4- and 2-person bedroom, or 3 x 2 person bedrooms.

And with a sewn-in groundsheet and a 6000mm HH flysheet that extends over the entrance, the tent locks out rain, wind and snow. The breathable polyester interior allows cooling, refreshing breezes in while keeping bugs out and the adjustable peg corners are also extremely useful, especially when it comes to pitching the tent on slightly inclined ground.

The Berghaus Air 6XL is not just one of the best 3 bedroom tents on the market, it’s also one of the best inflatable tents. It’s a quick-pitch tent that you’ll be able to put up in minutes. You’ll even be able to pitch it on your own, so if you’re heading on a solo camping trip or your family and friends aren’t being the most helpful camping companions, you’ll have no trouble putting it up. And with Berghaus being such a well-known, high-quality brand, you won’t have to worry about any issues with the quality or durability of the tent.

Pros

–6000mm HH flysheet
–Storage pockets and large organizers in all rooms
–Adjustable corner peg loops
–Inflatable tent that pitches in minutes
–Customisable sleeping space
–Standing room through

Cons

–It’s pretty heavy (36.7kg) and large so can be difficult to transport, but the wheeled carry bag makes up for it.

2: Vango Purbeck 600XL

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The Vango Purbeck comes packed with a variety of patented technologies that you won’t find in 4 room tents from other brands. For example, this model is made with Sentinel Active fabric, which allows the whole enclosure to remain lightweight and entirely durable. Speaking of durable, this model’s Tension Band System and Powerflex fibreglass poles are built to withstand the elements without complaints – including strong winter storms.

It also has a sewn-in groundsheet to keep the living areas dry, bug-free, and draught-free. And the climate windows control the temperature inside the tent and stop it becoming too hot or cold.

The bedrooms feature ‘lights out’ materials and are queen sized so you can easily fit two in each bedroom and you’ll even have space for a large air bed. There’s also storage pockets and lantern hanging points for convenience.

Pros

-Patented technology
-Extra durable
-Lightweight (22.5kg)
-Affordable
-Fully sewn-in groundsheet
-Pre-attached awning

Cons

-Bedrooms do not get very dark, despite lights out material
-Not the highest hydrostatic head — not the most waterproof tent

3: Robens Prospector 12

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The Robens Prospector is a serious tent for serious campers. It takes its aesthetic stylings from old American prospector tents, and certainly provides space for your entire crew with room for up to 12 people. The HydroTex Polycotton fabric manages to breathe well in the summer while locking in heat in the winter. You and your guests will be fully safe, too, because this particular tent has been tested to withstand up to180 km/h gale force winds.

While this isn’t technically a 3 bedroom tent, it can be transformed into one. Robens offer a range of accessories for the Prospector 12, including sleeping pods. The idea is that you buy this high-quality, luxury tent as a blank canvas, and then make it yours with however many bedrooms you need. You can get single bedrooms or double bedrooms. And the accessories don’t stop at bedrooms. You can also get an awning for this tent, and it has a chimney pipe passage so you can use a solid fuel stove, such as the Robens Denali tent stove, inside the tent.

The durability of this tent makes it perfect for summer camping in style, or you can enjoy warmth and luxury in winter, or it even makes a perfect long-standing tent if you’re hoping to AirBnB a tent on your land.

Pros

-Sturdy steel A-frame and ridge pole can withstand up to 180 km/h winds
-HydroTex Polycotton fabric is breathable in the summer and insulating in the winter
-Reflective guy lines provide maximum visibility in the dark
-Easy to pitch
-Customisable — add as many bedrooms as you need, add an awning and/or add a solid fuel stove
-Perfect for both winter and summer
-This has the potential to be a lifelong tent
-Could be a permanent tent with potential for AirBnB rental
-Lightweight (24.5kg)
-Standing height throughout
-5000mm HH and Sewn-in groundsheet

Cons

-It’s pretty expensive

4: Berghaus Kepler 6 Nightfall Air Tent

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I’ve got to hand it to the Berghaus Kepler 6 – this model has really brought the comforts of at-home sleeping to the great outdoors. This is thanks to its Patented Nightfall Darkened Bedroom system, which blocks out even the bright rays of morning so that you can have a lay in. Beyond this, I was pleased to see that this model has been made pram and wheelchair accessible via its main door drop step.

The layout of this tent also means the bedroom aren’t right next to each other. You’ve got a bit of space in between each room so you don’t have to listen to each other tossing and turning or snoring. In tunnel tent designs, the bedrooms can feel quite close together and it’s impossible to move around without disturbing those in the bedrooms next to you, but this 3 bedroom tent offers more privacy and space.

The Kepler 6 is also an inflatable tent so it’s quick to pitch, it has entry points for electric hookups, lantern hanging points, storage pockets and a wheeled carry bag. So Berghaus have gone the extra mile to make sure it’s as convenient as possible.

Pros

-Patented Nightfall Darkened Bedroom system provides ideal sleeping conditions
-Reinforced webbing straps provide added stability without tearing
-Drop step on main door provides pram and wheelchair access
-Spaced out bedrooms
-Inflatable tent so it’s quick to pitch and take down
-Roomy porch
-High and low-level vents for improved airflow
-Berghaus is a reliable brand
-Comes with wheeled carry bag
-Super waterproof — sewn-in groundsheet, taped seams, and 6000 mm HH
-Standing height throughout

Cons

-Requires a lot of stakes
-Expensive
-The living area isn’t as large as some other 4 room tents
-Rather heavy (38kg)

5: Outwell Woodburg 6A 

Outwell’s Woodburg 6A is one of the easiest models in this collection to set up. That’s because it makes full use of its pre-shaped air tubes, which inflate efficiently and create several spacious internal zones. One of those zones, the living room, can be fitted with a perfectly sized carpet, which adds a touch of luxury and comfort to your camping trip. This model’s overall weight of just under 25 kg also makes it ideal for transporting to a camping spot off the beaten path.

One thing to note though is that the bedrooms in this tent aren’t all equal sizes. There’s 1 triple room, 1 double room and 1 room that’s only big enough for a single person. You can remove the single person room though if you’d like more living space.

Pros

-Pre-shaped air tubes provide optimal internal space at the floor level
-Fitted carpet matches internal footprint perfectly
-Lightweight (25kg)
-One bedroom can be removed to give extra living space
-You can get a fitted carpet
-Darkened bedrooms
-Easy to pitch

Cons

-100% Polyester dries quickly, but is not always water-tight
-One bedroom only fits one person
-4000 mm HH isn’t as waterproof as other tents on this list

6: Coleman Valdes

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Finally, the Coleman Valdes has really raised the standard for what I expected from a 4 room tent. For starters, this model makes use of an innovative UV guard system that will keep you from getting a sunburn and prevent this tent’s colour from fading. At the same time, this model comes equipped with the BlackOut Bedroom system. This award-winning light dampening system ensures that you and your family can enjoy comfortable sleeping quarters, even as the morning sun rises. The BlackOut Bedroom technology also keeps the bedrooms 5°C cooler during the day and 1°C warmer at night.

The tent has so much space inside with two large living spaces that are perfect for families of any size. This inflatable tent can also be pitched quickly and by one person so there’s no need to worry about spending hours trying to put the tent up.

Pros

-Award-winning BlackOut Bedroom system blocks out 99% of sunlight
-Hinged door provides stability without the need for a noisy zipper
-UVGuard protection fabrics carry SPF 50 rating
-Spacious tent with large bedrooms and living areas
-Standing height throughout
-Quick to pitch
-Sewn-in groundsheet and 4500mm HH materials

Cons

-Takes a while to dry out 
-Quite heavy (38kg) and large to transport

My Pick: Which 3 Bedroom Tent Did I Buy?

So, as promised, I want to tell you about which of these 4 room tents I ended up choosing. I have to admit, it was a hard decision, and my top choice isn’t the tent I actually bought. I would have loved to have purchased the Robens Prospector, it has so many amazing features and I loved the ability to customise it. Plus, it was one of the best looking 3 bedroom tents I’ve ever seen. However, it’s also the most pricey tent on this list, and I couldn’t quite justify spending so much on a tent.

So in the end, I ended up going with the Coleman Valdes. Simply put, this model offers some great special features that I hadn’t seen anywhere else, including a hinged door and high UV protection. The price wasn’t too high either, so I felt that it was a good investment.

Every travel addict needs a good travel document wallet. There’s nothing worse than having your passport and paperwork loose in your bag – that just leads to awkward scrabbling at security checks, and no one wants that.

So travel document wallets are the perfect way to stay organised and keep all of your important things in one place. And as well as helping you stay organised, they also help you perfect your seasoned-traveler look. But if you’ve ever tried to find a vegan and eco-friendly travel wallet, you’ll know it can be hard to find something that’s both ethical and stylish.

But lately one travel wallet has been catching the eyes of vegans and eco-warriors: the Watson & Wolfe vegan travel document wallet. So naturally, I wanted to try it out for myself.

Watson & Wolfe: A Bit About The Brand

Watson & Wolfe is a boutique vegan leather company based in England. They sell wallets, cardholders, and now a travel document wallet. Every one of their products is both sustainable and ethical – they’re dedicated to creating vegan products that are both environmentally friendly, and people-friendly.

They believe the future is plant-based, so they’re vegan through and through, but still want to provide customers with the luxury of products that look and feel like real leather.

Their products have a sleek and timeless design, and sorry ladies, they’re designed with men in mind. Of course the wallets are more than suitable for us girls too – the classic black design goes with any outfit, handbag or luggage set. But by targeting men, these wallets are filling a gap in the market. Helen, the founder of Watson & Wolfe mentioned the need for a luxury vegan accessory brand for men in her interview with Vilda Magazine:

“There are a lot of female vegan accessory brands already, doing a fantastic job of proving that non-leather can compete. However, men are hugely under-represented…We need to offer this level of quality to entice more men to shop sustainably. To remove the stigma that sustainable is less luxurious.”

And sure enough, each Watson & Wolfe product perfectly blends luxury with sustainability in effortlessly classy designs.

Watson & Wolfe Vegan Travel Wallet Review

The Unboxing – Christmas Come Early

The wallet arrived in an eco-friendly cardboard sleeve, which popped open at the side to reveal layers of ec0-tissue paper. And underneath, the much-anticipated vegan travel wallet.

I’ve got to admit, the way the wallet was packaged and presented made it an exciting unboxing. And one thing’s for sure, this travel wallet would make a great vegan gift idea for any avid traveler – it’s practically already gift-wrapped.

Inside the cardboard sleeve, there’s also a small card from Helen (the founder) with information about Watson & Wolfe’s mission and values. It outlines what the material is made from and what makes their products so sustainable. This is a great inclusion especially if you plan on buying this vegan travel wallet as a gift for someone who’s new to the Watson & Wolfe brand.

First Impressions: Quality At Its Finest

Taking a look at the travel wallet for the first time, I was thoroughly impressed by the quality. At first glance, you’d think it was real leather. The vegan leather became even more impressive when I read about how it was made – from 50% BIO plant material. But the sustainability doesn’t stop there, Watson & Wolfe also make sure the plant material used doesn’t divert from food sources for humans or animals.

The sleek black design has a smooth finish and the Watson & Wolfe logo embossed into the corner of the front cover is the perfect addition. The little wolf logo adds a bit of detail to the front without interrupting the classic simplicity of the design. When you open the wallet there’s also ‘Watson & Wolfe England’ embossed into the leather of the passport compartment.

Whilst at the airport I actually had several people ask me what brand the wallet was – the unusual logo sets it apart from other brands, and adds to the wallet’s quality appearance. And if you want to add further detail to the wallet, there’s the option to have it embossed with your initials (up to four initials).

Inside the wallet, the black vegan leather is contrasted with elegant red stitching, creating a luxury feel. And when you open up the zipped compartment, the lining is a vivid red to match the stitching. The lining mimics the material used by luxury leather companies and feels just as high-quality. But rather than using polyester (a material that requires harsh chemicals, petroleum products and a lot of energy to make), Watson & Wolfe have created this lining from 100% recycled plastic bottles.

Practicality: Perfect For Every Occasion

The travel wallet is just the right size to hold your passport, any paperwork (including visas), boarding passes, credit cards and there’s even a zipped compartment for any coins or valuables.

A4 paperwork will need to be folded to fit inside the wallet, which is slightly smaller than a5 size, but this isn’t a problem at all, and the compact size means it can be easily slipped into any sized bag, or perhaps even a large pocket.

 

 

There are several different compartments for cards, papers, and whatnot, and there are actually two passport compartments which came in useful when traveling with a friend. So if you’re traveling as a couple, this definitely a great feature which lets you keep your important documents and passports in one wallet. Or if it’s just you, you’ve got a choice when it comes to organising where to put things in the wallet.

I took this wallet on a road trip around Europe and it was perfect for storing car-related documents (insurance papers and registration documents) and toll tickets. It fit perfectly in the door pocket of my driver’s seat, so whenever I came up to a security checkpoint, all I had to do was whip out this handy little folder.

Veganism is on the rise, especially amongst travel addicts and digital nomads. So the chances are, you know at least one vegan traveler. And when Christmas and Birthdays come around you might find yourself frantically worrying about what to buy them.

Because veganism is a lifestyle, rather than just a diet, it can be tricky to find vegan-friendly gifts. Strict vegans only use cruelty free, eco-friendly products and toiletries. But classic travel gift items like bags, notebooks, wallets, and backpacks often contain leather. And when it comes to gifting edibles or smellies (bath and shower products) it can be hard to know what’s actually suitable for vegans.

So to help you perfect your gifts, and to make sure vegan travel addicts have a chance of receiving top-notch presents, here are 8 vegan travel gift ideas.

8 Eco-Friendly Vegan Travel Gifts

1: Watson & Wolfe Travel Document Wallet

Every travel addict needs a good travel wallet, and this is the sleekest vegan travel wallet I’ve come across. It’s made from eco and vegan leather which still has the same look and feel as real leather. 50% of the eco-leather is made from the bio-plant material from corn, so it also doesn’t take away from any food sources. The inside lining is also sustainable and vegan-friendly, made from recycled plastic bottles.

Unlike a lot of other travel wallets out there, this document holder has a thin design that can slip easily into a bag, purse or backpack. And despite its thin design, it can hold passports, cards, money, visas and any other important paperwork.

And if you’re hoping to give your vegan friend a personal gift, you can choose to have their initials embossed into the wallet. If you want to know more, check out my vegan travel wallet review.

2: Vegan Toiletries

Until you’ve traveled as a vegan, you won’t know the struggle of trying to find vegan-friendly soaps, shampoos and conditioners. Most of these toiletries will have been tested on animals, and some will even contain animal fats.

So a great vegan travel gift is a set of cruelty-free toiletries. This will save your friend from having to search high and low for vegan products in a foreign country.

If you know your vegan friend has a checked luggage allowance, you can buy them full size bottles to take with them on their next adventure. If they’re prone to traveling to light, there are plenty of vegan travel toiletries you could buy them.

3: Bamboo Travel Utensils

Fast-paced travel often equals a lot of quick meals on the go. And it can be tempting to use plastic utensils and straws. But these are so bad for the environment and aren’t even particularly nice to eat or drink with.

This set of bamboo utensils includes a bamboo straw, chopsticks and a compact carrying case. They can be washed and used multiple times, so they’re great for all meals. Not only are these utensils vegan, but they’re also super durable, so they’ll survive any adventure. They can also be used at home after the trip is over, a 2-in-1 gift option that keeps on giving!

4: Eat Your Coffee Caffeine Bars

Coffee is a must in the morning, especially for travellers who have days jam packed with activities. But for vegans, coffee on the go can be a challenge. You never know if you’ll find a coffee shop with non-dairy options. It can start to feel like it’s easier to just skip the coffee altogether, rather than searching for vegan-friendly cafes first thing in the morning.

These caffeinated snack bars solve that problem. They come in 3 different flavours: fudge mocha latte, peanut butter mocha, and salted caramel. And each bar has the same amount of caffeine as one cup of coffee. It’s like breakfast and your morning coffee in one easy bar. These are the perfect flight snacks, and can be taken in both hand and checked in luggage.

5: Saucony Sneakers

A company that stands for good causes, Saucony is a brand that creates vegan sneakers. A sturdy pair of shoes can come in handy on more than one occasion, in several different travel destinations, too.

Whether you’re planning on hiking mountains or just exploring new towns, having a comfortable pair of shoes is a must.

Saucony has options for men, women, and children, and there are plenty of colours and styles to choose from. They also run their own foundation called Run for Good; it promotes healthy lifestyles to children experiencing childhood obesity. With this vegan travel gift, you can rest assured that you’re supporting a quality brand with excellent values.

6: Elephant Dung Notebook

If there’s one thing every traveler needs, it’s a notebook. When you’re traveling you never know when you’ll need to make a note, plan an itinerary, or note down someone’s number. Sure we all have phones to make notes on, but technology isn’t always as reliable as a trusty pad and pen.

So a notebook or travel journal is a great gift for any keen wanderer. But if you want to go one step further, you should look into eco-friendly notebooks. And it doesn’t get more eco-friendly than this notebook made from elephant dung.

It’s handmade, fair trade and eco friendly, and it’s bound to get a few giggles when you reveal it’s made from elephant poop.

7: Eagle Creek Pack-It Clean Dirty Packing Cube

Separating your clean from your dirty clothes whilst traveling usually involves bringing along a plastic bag. Not only is this hard on the environment, but it can also be inconvenient. Rustling through a plastic bag in a hostel or hotel laundry room isn’t anyone’s idea of fun, and it’s definitely not discreet.

These packing cubes are a eco-friendly alternative to using a plastic bag for dirty washing. The cube is divided in two, with one side for clean clothes and one side for your dirties. And the material is designed in a way that any nasty smells won’t escape or leak into your clean section. Packing cubes are also a great way to organise backpacks or suitcases. 

8: OneNine5 Eco-Friendly Travel Wash Bag

This gift is a great idea for eco-conscious vegan travellers. The wash bag can hold a range of their favourite vegan toiletries, and includes a reusable and detachable clear liquid bag. The clear liquid bag is TSA approved so it can be used for airport security.

The lining material is also made from recycled plastic, so this is a gift that contributes to the clean up of oceans and landfills. The lining is also waterproof and wipeable, so it will stay clean and free of any makeup stains.

This is also a gift that can last a lifetime, as OneNine5 will replace the wash bag free of charge if it reaches the end of its lifespan. And when you post it back to them, they’ll recycle the material so it doesn’t add to the growing waste problem.

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[et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Regardless of what type of travel or day trip you’re into, one thing everyone needs is a reliable rucksack. 

Whilst traveling, be it for a day or a few weeks, your backpack is home to your beloved belongings, so you want it to be strong and protective. It also helps to have different sections, pockets and dividers if you want to keep organised whilst on the go. 

But as well as looking after your belongings, your travel backpack needs to look after you. What I mean by this is, you want a backpack that makes carrying heavy items easier, without hurting your back. A good travel backpack will make your adventures easier. 

North Face is a top brand for outdoor gear, and several of their backpacks have been made with hiking, climbing and mountaineering in mind. So North Face backpacks can handle an adventure. 

But to help you find the best North Face backpack, here’s a buyers guide and a list of the top choices. 

What is The North Face? 

The North Face is a brand that specialises in outdoor clothing and gear for adventurous campers and travellers. 

They sell fleeces, coats, tents, sleeping bags, travel and camping accessories, and of course backpacks. 

North Face gear is designed to help you venture off the grid, and take on more challenging adventures. The name ‘The North Face’ refers to the north face of a mountain, which is the coldest and hardest route to the peak, and their gear has been designed to be suitable for even the hardest of journeys. 

Why choose a North Face Backpack?

The North Face designs backpacks that are suitable for all kinds of adventures. So whatever corner of the world you’re heading to, whatever climate or adventure you’re tackling, a North Face backpack is going to protect your gear. 

North Face backpacks are also comfortable and they make carrying a heavy pack easier on your back. 

The Best North Face Backpacks

1: North Face Borealis

The Borealis is one of the most popular North Face backpacks, because it’s the classic day bag. It’s fairly small in size, and it’s lightweight too, so it’s great for day trips, or shorter getaways.

It’s also water-resistant, so there’s no need to worry about your belongings being damaged by bad weather or damp ground.

The Borealis’s interior is also designed for those who like to keep organised. It has different compartments, and some padding to keep your belongings from becoming squashed, damaged or bashed.

Pros

• It comes with a lifetime warranty 
• It’s a popular backpack model
• Water resistant so little risk of water damage to your belongings
• Organised interior with different compartments
• Mesh compartments on the sides for extra storage, or for a water bottle
• It’s the perfect size for a day bag
• It’s a unisex design

Cons

• It’s too small for anyone wanting a large capacity backpack for bigger trips

2: North Face Surge

The North Face Surge is an elegant day bag that doubles as a laptop bag. It has a dedicated space for a laptop up to 15″.

The Surge is also one of the most comfortable North Face backpacks to wear on long journeys. It’s padded, and features North Face’s FlexVent suspension system which makes the bag easier on the shoulders and back.

The back panel is breathable, allowing air to pass through and keep your back cool, because no one wants the dreaded sweaty back that often comes with carry a rucksack.

One thing to note with this backpack though is that it’s designed for women. There are several colourful design options, and the bag is designed for a woman’s smaller build.

Pros

• Very comfortable for a woman as it’s specifically designed for a female body
• Laptop compartment with soft lining to prevent scratches and bashes
• FlexVent suspension for comfortable carrying
• Perfect for those who like to work on the go

Cons

• It’s not a backpack for men
• It’s not waterproof, which may cause a problem if you’re using it to carry your laptop a long way
• It’s not as lightweight as other models

3: North Face Recon

Another women’s North Face backpack, the North Face Recon. This backpack has a classic design, and it’s a popular choice for travel addicts because it’s got a larger capacity than other North Face day bags.

Much like the Surge, this also has a dedicated laptop compartment, which makes it ideal for digital nomads. The laptop compartment is well padded and protected, so there’s no risk of any damage to your laptop.

It also has a FlexVent suspension system and a sternum and waist straps to make it more comfortable to carry.

Pros

• 31 litre capacity makes it a better option for traveling on short trips
• Very comfortable for a woman as it was designed for the female form
• FlexVent suspension system
• Sternum and waist straps
• Laptop compartment makes it perfect for digital nomads. It can also be used as a work bag. 
• Different colours to choose from

Cons

• Only suitable for women
• Can’t be stood up on a flat surface, so needs to be carefully placed down if it contains valuables

4: North Face Router

The North Face Router is another laptop day bag, but this is one for the gents. It comes in red or black, so there’s a couple of different style options.

The guys out there will be pleased to hear it’s designed to be just as comfortable as the ladies’ Surge and Recon, with the same FlexVent suspension system and padded straps providing ultimate comfort.

This laptop day bag is bigger than the women’s alternatives, being 17″ rather than 15″. So it fits much more than just a laptop.

The larger capacity and durable material make it a perfect backpack for traveling. As long as you don’t mind packing light, this can easily cope with larger and longer adventures.

Pros

• It’s large capacity means it can fit more than just a laptop
• Flexvent suspension system and padded straps make it super comfortable 
• You can choose between red or black 
• Specifically designed to suit male bodies 

Cons

• Not a great choice for women

5: North Face Terra

The North Face Terra is a unisex backpack that comes in different sizes, so you can find one that fits you and your belongings perfectly. You can choose a 50, 55 or 65 litre rucksack, so it’s definitely a rucksack designed for travel.

You can also use it with a hydration bladder, and it has a compartment for a laptop too, making it one of the most versatile backpacks.

It’s got a vertical channel that gives the backpack good ventilation and a padded shoulder harness and hip belt for comfort.

It also has a sleeping bag compartment, making it a great bag for outdoors and adventure travel.

Pros 

• The best North Face backpack for travel 
• Designed with hiking in mind 
• Large capacity makes it perfect for backpacking and longer trips
• Sleeping bag compartment makes it a good adventure bag
• Laptop compartment useful for digital nomads
• Can be used with a hydration bladder
• Super comfortable and ventilated 

Cons

• Not suitable for cabin baggage or smaller trips  

6: North Face Fovero 85

The North Face Fovero 85 is THE backpack for long term, adventurous travellers. It has even more room than the North Face Terra, and it has a separate sleeping bag compartment that can be attached/detached.

The lid also doubles as a day bag, and can be attached and detached from the bag so you don’t have to worry about carrying two bags at once.

The suspension systems makes carrying heavy weight easier, which is especially useful if you plan on hiking with a lot of gear.

It also comes with a waterproof cover that can be easily pulled over the bag, so there’s no need to worry about traveling in bad weather.

Pros

• Perfect for carrying lots of gear
• Sleeping bag compartment
• Detachable day bag
• Great suspension system  
• Padded straps for comfort
• Waterproof cover

Cons

• It’s massive, which means it’s not suitable for small trips 

7: North Face Banchee 50

This is a great backpack for anyone who likes to travel on shorter trips, as well as big adventures. It can hold up to 50 litres worth of kit, but it can be adjusted to become a smaller backpack for smaller trips.

It’s suitable for both men and women, and it’s one of the most comfortable North Face backpacks. The straps have some really cushy padding, and you can use the front straps to spread the weight of your bag.

It also comes in two colours, red and green, so you can choose the style that suits you best.

Pros

• Great for all kinds of travel – short trips and long adventures
• Super comfortable to wear, thanks to the cushy padding
• Suitable for both men and women
• Size of the bag can be adjusted
• Two colours to choose from

Cons

• No laptop compartment 

What to look for in a North Face backpack? 

Different backpacks suit different people, mainly because we all lead different lifestyles. So before rushing out and buying a backpack for your next trip, here are some things to look for and consider 

Capacity: how much can it hold? 

Depending on where you’re traveling and for how long, you might need a smaller or larger backpack. 

You can get some really massive backpacks for bigger trips, some even hold up to 120L. But these will be heavy to carry, even with comfortable straps, and if you’re traveling by plane these will need to be checked in. 

North Face also do a huge range of smaller backpacks, up to 40L, and most of these can be carried comfortably, and can be used as a cabin bag when flying. 

Padding: is it comfortable? 

If you’re traveling with a backpack, you need to be able to carry it for a while without the straps cutting into your shoulders or the weight hurting your back. 

So for your backpack to be comfortable and safe to wear, you need it to have cushy straps that are soft on the shoulders. And a padded back will stop the backpack from feeling lumpy and bumpy to wear.

Protection: how much protection does it offer your belongings?

Some bags will have internal padding that gives your belongings extra protection. So if you’re carrying valuables like cameras or a laptop with you on your travels, you’ll definitely want to make sure your bag keeps them safe from bumps and bashes. 

Another way to make sure your bag offers enough protection is to get a waterproof bag. This way if you’re venturing somewhere with bad weather, or you’re hiking and get caught in the rain, water isn’t going to dampen your possessions or ruin your electricals. 

Ventilation: how good is the air flow? 

If you’re used to wearing a backpack you’ll know the ever-embarrassing problem of back sweat. Some backpacks can make you sweat like crazy. I’m not talking like a little bit of moisture, I’m talking dripping wet t-shirt back sweat.

It’s embarrassing and uncomfortable, but it can be so easily avoided with a good backpack! All you need is good ventilation.

Lots of North Face backpacks will have ventilated backs, allowing air to flow, keeping your back cool and significantly non-sweaty.

Internal features: what’s it like inside? 

Having one big open interior will allow you to fit more in your backpack, but it means your things are probably going to be quite unorganised. You’ll have to just throw everything in, without having any sort of structure.

If you want to organise your backpack a bit more, you might want to look for a backpack with internal features and dividers.

Some North Face backpacks will have laptop compartments, and smaller phone or money pockets. This makes for convenient packing.

Quality: will it go the distance? 

North Face is a top outdoors brand, so they always make quality backpacks. Choosing a North Face backpack means you won’t have to worry about your rucksack breaking under pressure or ripping when carrying a heavy load.

Straps: does it have supportive straps?

Whether you’re heading out for the day, or for a long term travel trip, you need your backpack to be comfortable to wear. Supportive and padded straps make carrying a heavy bag easier. You won’t have to put up with straps cutting into your shoulders.

If you’re traveling long distance with your backpack, and you plan on carrying it around for longer than an hour or two, you might want to consider a rucksack with chest and sternum straps. This helps you spread the weight of your bag, making long walks easier.

Size: will it double as cabin luggage?

If you’re going to be traveling with your bag, you’ll need to think about size. Choosing a massive backpack will allow you to take all the gear you need for several weeks or even several months. But you will have to check it in when you fly.

Choosing a smaller backpack will mean you’ll have less capacity but you can take it on smaller trips, and use it as your cabin bag.

You need to think about what size is right for you, or if you want different backpacks for multiple occasions, why not think about buying two north face backpacks?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column]
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If you know someone who loves to travel and write about their adventures, you’ll know that when it comes to birthdays and Christmas, conventional gifts just won’t do. 

Aspiring travel writers are always on the go, so they value portable gifts that can make any journey easier, and gifts that can help them find success as a travel writer. 

But it can be hard to think of great gift ideas that are actually useful, especially if you’re not very travel-inclined yourself. 

So to make the gift-giving process a little easier, here are the best gifts for aspiring travel writers.

Little gifts for aspiring travel writers 

1: How To Be A Travel Writer, Lonely Planet

This book by Lonely Planet is one of the best books out there for aspiring travel writers.

It gives a thorough strategy to getting set up as a travel writer, covering everything from preliminary trip research, to story planning, to how and where to publish travel writing and start building an audience.

2: Travel Diary with scratch map 

This travel diary is 2 gifts in 1, with a handy travel planner journal and a set of scratch maps for each continent.

Travel writers can plan their trips, make notes as they go, and scratch off the places they’ve seen. 

3: Vargic’s Miscellany of Curious Maps

This is a quirky gift for an aspiring travel writer, and one that inspires old school adventure. 

Travel writers can feel like traditional adventurers as they unfold the different vintage-style maps and plan a route through various countries. 

The 64 maps in the atlas don’t just focus on geography, they focus on culture, changing the way you think about each country. There are maps of the internet, of literature, of gaming and sport. You can even see a map that shows the world in terms of heavy metal bands. 

Each map is accompanied by a handful of interesting and unusual facts, so travel writers can learn about the world whilst planning a route based on culture. 

4: How To Be An Explorer Of The World, Keri Smith

This is a travel book/journal that encourages observant thinking. It’s a refreshing reminder to look at the world through fresh eyes.

The colourful book is artistic and unusual, and it’s bound to get any travel writer thinking about new ways to observe and document the world around them.

5: Fair Trade Tree of Life Journal 

Every travel writer needs a journal to jot down their ideas, and this tree of life journal is both ethical and stylish. The blank pages give writers freedom to write and draw in their own style.

6: LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

This is a great gift for travel writers who like to go off-grid. It’s a portable water filter so if there’s no bottled water around, you can use this safe in the knowledge that it’s going to remove 99.9% of waterborne bacteria and parasites. Lots of people have even said this makes water taste purer than some bottled water.

7: Pack-away Rucksack 

Traveling can have its spontaneous moments, and when spontaneity strikes, you need a good day bag.

This pack-away rucksack fits easily into a pocket when folded away, and can be unfolded to be a full size, 20 litre day bag.

It’s also water resistant and has different pockets so you can keep your things organised.

8: Anti-theft dry bag day rucksack 

Having a versatile day bag means no adventure is off limits. Travel writers can store their notebooks, valuables, and even laptops in this day bag, and go adventuring on land or in the water.

It’s water resistant so you can use it as a dry bag, and it’s coated with RFID technology that makes data theft impossible – hackers can’t scan through the material.

It’s also one of the safest day bags you can get, with a built-in lockable stainless steel cage.

9: Universal Travel Plug

Every avid traveler needs a universal travel plug. It saves faffing around with different adapters, and means you can charge multiple devices at once, even if there’s only one plug socket available.

This travel plug can be used in over 180 different countries and can charge one device with a standard UK plug, and 4 devices using USB cables.

Technology Gifts For Travel Writers

Gone are the days when travel writers hit the road with nothing but a pad and paper. If aspiring writers want their content to be seen, they need to take their writing online, and certain pieces of technology can definitely help.

10: Kindle Paperwhite

Most aspiring writers are also keen readers, where else would they have got the inspiration from? Anyway, bookaholics need to be able to take all their favourite novels with them when they travel, and a Kindle is a great way to do just that.

The Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof, and lightweight, so it’s perfect for anyone planning to travel. Travel writers can take thousands of books with them for inspiration, without feeling weighed down.

11: Solar charger power bank

Every now and then, travel writers need to go off grid, or at least venture into the countryside for inspiration.

A solar charger is the perfect gift for the more adventurous travel writer, as regardless of where they are, they’ll be able to charge their devices.

They can then stay connected with loved ones, use their devices to write or research, and call for help in an emergency.

12: PowerCube 

For technologically inclined writers and travellers, the PowerCube is an ideal gift. They can plug in to a single power socket, and charge several devices from one port.

The cube includes 3 standard plug sockets, and 2 built in USB ports, so they can charge laptops, tablets, phones etc.

13: reMarkable tablet

The reMarkable paper tablet is the ultimate gift for a writer. It feels just like paper to write on, and it saves all your notes in one place. So no flicking through endless pieces of paper containing random notes.

It’s an easier, and more modern alternative to a notebook, and it’s much more environmentally friendly. It’s also really lightweight, so it won’t be a burden if you’re trying to pack light.

14: Skyroam Solis: Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot & Power Bank

Writers need to research, and nowadays, research requires Wi-Fi. One sure-fire way to get Wi-Fi all over the world is to have a Skyroam Wi-Fi hotspot, so this is definitely an impressive gift for a travel writer.

The device allows travellers to connect to the Wi-Fi as and when they need it. They can buy long term packages, or day passes. So if they ever need internet access urgently, think of this little device as the key to the internet.

It also doubles as a power bank, so you can charge devices whilst using the Wi-Fi.

15: Compact Travel Camera

Writers often need to take pictures to accompany their writing, but a bulky camera isn’t really suited to travel. So if your travel writer friend doesn’t already have a compact travel camera, this could be a good gift idea.

My favourite travel camera is the Sony RX100 VA, which is a high end compact camera that can film in 4K and shoot 20.1mp photos. You can check out my Sony RX100 VA review here.

But if you’re after a more budget-friendly gift, my top choice for a budget travel camera is the Sony Cyber-Shot WX500. You can also read my Sony WX500 review. 

16: MacBook Air

Every travel writer needs a decent laptop, and a MacBook Air is the ultimate travel laptop. This is a pricey gift, but it’s a good one if you’ve got a travel writer who’s close to your heart.

With this laptop, travel writers will have all the equipment they need to achieve success. And it’s lightweight so it’s great for traveling.

17: Voice recorder 

Writers need to take notes, and for some people, going through ideas out loud is the best way to sort genius from madness.

A voice recorder is a great way to take notes of ideas, without having to put pen to paper. This is a great gift for writers who suffer from not being able to write down their racing ideas quick enough.

18: Voice Recorder Pen

Voice recorder pens don’t have as many options and settings as standard voice recorders, but they’re great for writers who want to record conversations discreetly. It’s also a pretty cool writer’s gadget, and an unusual gift to give.

Gift a Course: Courses For Travel Writers

Every aspiring travel writer wants to achieve success as a writer. But to do that, they need to perfect their writing style and figure out how to get their content seen. A great way to better writing skills, and learn more about the world of travel writing, is to learn from the best.

These courses can help travel writers find success, and they can all be bought as a gift.

19: The Ultimate Travel Journalism Course 

This course is run by the British College of Journalism, so writers can learn from the best how to write for an audience, and how to make money doing so. It’s a study-at-home course, so travel writers can take their time and study at their own pace. The course takes 24 weeks, but it can be completed in up to two years.

Students will be in contact with professional travel journalists who can give advice based on over 30 years of experience.

20: Travel Writing 2.0

This is a course in the form of a book, so it’s an affordable gift to buy your travel writer friend, partner or relative. It acknowledges that travel writing is no longer about getting a column in a local newspaper, but thriving in the digital world. So it has modern tips about getting content out there and making money digitally.

It also includes interviews from more than 100 successful writers.

If you’re confused by the ‘2.0’ part of the title, basically there was an original book that was really popular, but this is the updated version, with more up-to-date information.

21: The Business Of Travel Blogging

Nomadic Matt, aka Matt Kepnes, is the most successful travel blogger in the world right now. He’s making more than enough money to sustain a life of travel, and he’s inspired millions to seek the furthest corners of the earth.

His course on travel blogging teaches students how to write for an online audience, how to set up a blog, and how to get traffic to that blog. It really is a chance to learn from the best.

And it’s not just Matt’s advice that you’ll get on this course either. He also includes interviews with other successful travel bloggers.

So you’re off on an adventure, perhaps one that’s going to take you off grid for a while, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take some home comforts with you. 

With a camping cot, at least you’ll have the luxury of a comfortable night’s sleep, even if you’re camping in the middle of nowhere in who knows what country. 

But there are hundreds of camp cots on the market right now, and you want to make sure you find the best camping cot for backpacking adventures. 

Here’s a buyers guide for backpacking cots, and a list of some of the best camp beds for travel. 

What is a camping cot?

Camp cots, or camp beds as they’re also known, are collapsible beds that are lightweight and portable. Originally these types of beds were used by militaries all over the world.

They consist of a lightweight frame that pops apart or collapses, and then for the ‘mattress’ there’s material like canvas, linen or nylon.

You don’t need to use a mattress or sleep pad with them, you just sleep on top of them in a sleeping bag. 

Why take a cot backpacking? 

Packing your backpack for a long haul trip can be a difficult process. You want to have everything you need but you don’t want to make your pack too heavy to carry. And there’s no denying it, a camping cot is going to add weight to your bag. But trust me, it’s worth carrying the extra grams.

Here are some of the reasons you should consider taking a camp bed on your next backpacking tour:

Comfort

A camping cot offers you so much more comfort than the cold, hard ground. It might not be as comfortable as an actual bed, but it’s still 100 times better than sleeping on the floor.

Warmth

Regardless of where you’re backpacking, the nights can be cold. And if you’re sleeping on a cold floor, you’re going to lose even more warmth. In fact, you lose more warmth to a cold floor than to cold air. So by taking a camping cot with you, you’ll stay warmer, and you won’t need to pack such a heavy sleeping bag.

Health

Camping and backpacking can be mentally and physically draining, especially if you’re not sleeping well. By having a camping bed, at least you know that wherever you are, you can always can get a relatively comfortable night’s sleep. You’ll get the rest you need to stay healthy on your travels. It’s also more supportive for your back.

What to look for in a backpacking cot?

Camp beds vary in size, style and weight, so before buying one, it’s important to think about what you need from a camp cot. You should consider factors like your size and weight, as well as your sleeping position. Different cots will be better suited to different people.

Here are some things to look for when buying a camping cot.

Size

Some cots will be wider or longer than others. If you’re particularly tall, or you have a big build, you’ll be more comfortable in a larger camp bed.

Another thing to consider when deciding what size camp bed you need is you sleeping position. If you sleep on your back, a narrow cot should be okay for you, but if you like to sleep on your side in a foetal position, or you just generally spread out in your sleep, you’ll need a wider bed.

Weight

Ideally, you need your camp cot to be as lightweight as possible. Otherwise it’s just going to weigh you down too much.

Bear in mind that not all camping beds are designed for backpacking, so they won’t all be the same weight.

Collapsed size

As well as thinking about how big the bed is when it’s set up, you should think about how much space it’s going to take up in your backpack when it’s collapsed/folded.

Accessories

Some cots will come with included accessories like a pillow, a blanket or slip proof material for the cot legs.

10 Best backpacking cots 

1: KingCamp Ultralight Compact Camping Cot 

This is one of the best backpacking cots in terms of portability. It only weighs 2kg, and it folds up super small, making it easy to slip into a backpack. In fact, this camp bed folds up to be the smallest on the list. It’s also pretty comfortable, and it’s suitable for taller people with a length of 190cm.

Size: L190cm x W64cm x H12cm

Folded Size: L36 x W13cm xH13cm

Weight: 4.4lbs / 2kg

Pros

• It supports up to 120 kg
• It has two elastic straps to keep it from slipping 
• It’s very lightweight, so it won’t be a burden if you’re hiking or moving on to your next destination
• Its packed up size is as small as you can hope for, and it will fit easily in a bag
• It’s easy to set up 
• It has a pillow included
• It comes in different colours so you can choose your style

Cons

• It’s very low to the ground, which can make getting up from the bed a little more tricky 

2: Helinox Cot Lite

The Helinox Cot Lite is the most lightweight backpacking cot, weighing only 1.2kg. It’s so light that it’s won awards for its design and functionality.

It’s also specifically designed with backpacking in mind, so they’ve thought of everything – it’s lightweight, relatively small when folded up, and big enough to be comfortable.

However, it’s not the best choice for anyone who’s taller than 6ft, as it’s only 6 ft (185cm) long.

Size: L185cm x W60cm x H13cm

Folded Size: L53cm x W13cm x H13cm

Weight: 2.65 lbs / 1.2 kg

Pros

• This is quite literally an award winning camping cot
• Specifically designed for backpacking 
• It’s the lightest backpacking cot money can buy
• Includes a storage bag with grab handles

Cons

• It’s a little on the pricey side
• It’s only 185cm long, so it’s not suited for those over 6ft tall

3: Grand Canyon Camping Bed

If you’re looking for a budget backpacking cot, this might be the one. It’s one of the top camping cots under $100, and it’s full length and can support a lot of weight, so it’s suitable for almost all backpackers.

However, whilst you save money with this camp bed, you sacrifice some portability. It’s heavier, and bulkier than more expensive alternatives.

Size: L190cm x W65cm x H40cm OR L210cm x W80cm x H42cm

Folded Size: L94cm x W20cm OR L103CM x W20cm

Weight: 4.5 kg OR 5kg

Pros

• It comes in two different sizes, so you can order the size that’s right for you
• It’s affordable
• It has a load bearing capacity of up to 150kg, which makes it suitable for a wider range of backpackers
• It has anti slip caps for greater stability
• It’s higher off the ground which makes getting up and laying down easier – no need to worry about getting stuck on the floor

Cons

• It’s quite a lot heavier than other options, as it weighs up to 5kg
• The packed up size isn’t particularly small, in fact it’s almost double the size of most other backpacking cots

4: YAHILL Ultralight Camping Bed

The YAHILL Ultralight Camping Bed does what it says on the tin. It’s lightweight, it’s portable, and it can support most people up to 6ft2 tall. And there’s no need to worry about being too heavy for it, as it can support an impressive 180kg.

Size: L190cm x W65cm xH19cm

Folded Size: L53cm x W11cm x H16cm

Weight: 6.5 lbs / 2.95 kg

Pros

• It supports up to 180kg, so there’s no chance of it buckling or breaking
• It’s long enough for anyone under 6ft2
• It has a simple collapsible design
• You can purchase additional feet to add height to this camp bed
• It comes with a 1 year warranty

Cons

• It’s not the most portable backpacking cot

5: ALPIDEX Ultralight Camping Cot

The ALPIDEX camping cot is one of the best budget backpacking cots on the market. And you’ll be pleased to hear that this cot doesn’t sacrifice comfort like many other budget beds.

It’s 190cm long, which is just as long as most high-end cots, and it has an above average width. This means it’s perfect for anyone who likes to sleep on their side, curled up or spread out.

Size: L190cm x W67cm x H16cm

Folded Size: L56cm x W15cm

Weight: 1.8 kg

Pros

• It has anti slip feet 
• It’s built with backpackers in mind
• It’s affordable
• It’s a full length cot suitable for most people
• Above average width makes it perfect for side-sleepers

Cons

• It only three legs, so it doesn’t offer as much stability as cots with four or five legs

6: THERMAREST LuxuryLite Mesh Cot (Extra Large) 

If you want a backpacking cot that offers the most comfort, the Thermarest LuxuryLite Mesh Cot is your best bet. It’s one of the largest camping cots on the list, but it’s also one of the lightest.

With a length of 196cm, it’s comfortable for anyone up to 6ft4 tall. And with a width of 76cm, it’s perfect for any side sleepers, or starfish sleepers.

Size: L196cm x W76cm x H11cm

Folded size: L46cm x W15cm

Weight: 4.7 lbs / 2.1kg

Pros 

• Patented BowFrame technology means you don’t have to worry about any crossbars causing you discomfort
• It’s super portable thanks to it’s small packed size
• The canvas is breathable, giving you extra ventilation in warm weather
• Non-stretching material gives you long-lasting comfort
• It only takes three minutes to set up 

Cons

• It’s a little on the pricey side 
• Breathable canvas means you’ll need padding on the top for insulation in colder weather

7: Alps Mountaineering Mens Ready Lite Cot

The name of this camping cot might suggest it’s for men and men alone, but this is a camp bed that’s suitable for any backpackers, male or female.

The generous length of 198cm makes it perfect for taller travellers, but that’s not to say it can’t be used by smaller people – it will just be extra roomy. It also has an above average width, so it’s suitable for side sleeping.

Despite the large size of this cot, it’s still pretty lightweight, weighing only 2.2kg.

Size: L198cm x W71cm x H19cm

Folded Size: L43cm x H18cm

Weight: 4.8 lbs / 2.2 kg

Pros

• Extra long length makes it a great choice for taller backpackers
• Super portable, packs up to be one of the smallest camp beds on the market 
• Includes a lifetime warranty 

Cons

• It’s only available in one size, so there’s no smaller option  

8: Helinox Big Agnes Cot One Convertible

And here we have it, the largest cot on the list. This cot is suitable for EVERYONE (unless you’re 7ft tall). It’s long, it’s wide, and it can hold up to 145kg.

The only thing that’s not large about this cot is the height, but even that can be adjusted with accessory legs.

Don’t worry though, this cot might be large, but it packs up relatively small, and it’s still really lightweight.

Size: L210cm x W75cm x H16cm

Folded Size: L53cm x W13cm x H13cm

Weight: 4.9 lbs / 2.2 kg

Pros

• You can purchase separate accessory legs to add more height to this backpacking cot
• Above average length makes it suitable for taller backpackers
• Above average width makes side sleeping positions more comfortable – you’ll have more room to spread out
• It can hold up to 145 kg
• Good ventilation for warm weather

Cons

• During cold weather you need padding on top of this backpacking cot for insulation 
• It’s quite pricey
• It’s not the most portable when packed up 

Packing everything you need can be one of the most stressful parts of traveling, especially if you’re visiting multiple destinations. Packing and unpacking at every place takes time and effort, and then there’s the frustration of not knowing where abouts anything is in your backpack.

If you want to stay organised throughout your backpacking trip, you need to find an efficient packing method.

You’ve probably seen packing cubes around, there’s quite a few of them on the market right now. But if you haven’t yet tried them out, honestly, once you’ve used them once, you won’t ever travel without them again.

The trouble is most packing cubes are best suited to suitcases, so in this post we’ll look at six of the best packing cubes for the Osprey Farpoint 40 backpack, and other similar bags.

The 6 Best Packing Cubes For Backpacks Like The Osprey Farpoint 40

1: AmazonBasics 4-Piece Packing Cube Set

Amazon Basics products are usually pretty reliable – you always know exactly what you’re getting, and you get it for a great price too. And these packing cubes are no different.

In this set you’ll get one small, one medium and one large cube. Then the fourth piece is a long thin rectangle shape that’s perfect for a rolled towel, blanket, bottle of wine, or as us backpackers normally do, you can also jam various items of clothing into it.

The cubes all have a double zipper, which is great for quick access, and mean the zipper is less likely to snag.

The mesh design of these cubes makes it easy to exactly what’s inside each cube, so no more digging around blindly in your bag, pulling out items that may or may not be what you’re looking for.

Pros

• Mesh Design
• Durable  
• Gentle Interior
• Machine Washable
• Great value

Cons

• Privacy – mesh design means your traveling companions can also see what’s in your cubes

2: eBags Packing Cubes 3pc Set

This 3-piece set again has a mesh design, making it easy to find things at a glance, but these cubes also feature a ‘self-healing’ zipper. This basically means your zipper isn’t going to get damaged, regardless of how often you use it.

The exterior material of these cubes is weatherproof, and isn’t going to let any dirt in, which is great if you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities like camping. The inside material though is soft, which is great for more delicate items.

The cubes are also machine washable, which is definitely a handy feature. We’re all guilty of shoving our dirties back in our bag with our clean clothes, and after a while, packing cubes can start to smell a little grim.

The main issue with this set though is the fact that it only comes with three cubes. The cubes will fit perfectly in your Osprey Farpoint 40 or other similar backpack, and you’ll have plenty of room spare as well. If you’re not taking too much with you on your trip, or if you only want to pack some of your clothes in cubes, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Otherwise, you might want to buy a couple of sets.

Pros

• Lifetime warranty
• Mesh design
• Machine washable
• “Self-Healing” zippers
• Protects your clothes

Cons

• Less total packing space with only three cubes
• Privacy – mesh design means your traveling companions can also see what’s in your cubes

3: Eagle Creek Pack It Specter Clean Dirty Cube

This is one of the most innovative packing cubes on the market, with the cube split into two sections, you can use one section for your clean items and the other for your dirty laundry.

The divider prevents any dirt or smell from crossing into the clean section. Even if you pack smelly wet clothing, you’re not going to smell it from outside the cube, and the smell won’t affect your clean clothes.

The materials used are specifically chosen for outdoor use, so this cube can take a battering. It’s also waterproof, and odour-proof.

Eagle Creek is also big on environmentally friendly materials and products, so you know that by buying this cube, you’ll be doing your bit for the environment.

This may only be a single set, but you can fit loads in it, and if you need any extra cubes, Eagle Creek also have a set of regular packing cubes, and a set of three pack-it dirty cubes if you want more than one.

Pros

• Simple Design
• Space for both clean and dirty clothes
• Waterproof and odour-proof
• Great Addition to other Packing Cubes
• Portable Handle
• Keeps Moisture in or out
• Green Company

Cons

• Heavy Fabric
• Only one Compartment

4: eBags Packing Cubes 6pc Value Set

This 6 piece packing cube set is great value for money, with enough cubes for you to pack your clothes by colour, type, size – whatever you fancy!

With more pieces, you can make sure your backpack is better organised. Everything will have its own place. The only troule with more cubes is that it makes it easier to overpack!

Pros

• Value for money
• 6 pieces as opposed to the usual 3 or 4
• Durable
• Lifetime Warranty

Cons

• Smaller individual cubes
• Snug fit in backpack
• More to keep track of on the road

5: Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Starter Set

This Eagle Creek packing cube set is great for those who want a variety of different cubes. It comes with different shaped cubes, and even a garment bag that can be folded, keeping your clothes neat and crease-free.

These cubes all have handles, so you can easily grab them and keep hold of them (which is more useful than you might think – especially if you’re asked to unpack your bag at airport security).

Pros

• Versatility  
• Light-Weight Fabric  
• Great for Backpacking Beginners

Cons

• Fabric durability – cubes can get damaged when washed on high temperatures
• Bulky

6: Osprey Packing And Travel Sets – the best packing cubes for the Osprey Farpoint 4o

If you really want the best money can buy when it comes to finding perfect packing cubes for your rucksack, it’s worth sticking with the Osprey brand.

As well as rucksacks, Osprey have brought out several different travel organisers and packing cube sets, specifically designed to accompany their rucksacks. So getting an Osprey packing cube set would be like giving your rucksack tailor made compartments.

Pros

• Specifically designed to fit the Osprey Farpoint 40 and other similar rucksacks
• Immaculate quality – you can throw these things around as much as you want, they’re not going to break or tear
• Stylish appearance – the trouble with packing cubes is that you can tell the cheap from the high quality, and these certainly look like they’re high quality
• There’s a range of different organisers and packing cubes within the Osprey packing range, so you can choose the packing cubes that are best for you

Cons

• Sticking with a brand you trust can come at a cost, these packing cubes are slightly more expensive than their alternatives.

So to sum up…

Packing cubes can definitely transform the way you travel, so it’s worth investing in a set you get on with. The ultimate packing cubes for the Osprey Farpoint 40, and other similar rucksacks are definitely the Osprey cubes. They’re specifically designed to fit snugly in Osprey backpacks, and they’re made with top quality material.

If you’re just looking for a kit that can separate your clean from your dirties, the Eagle Creek clean dirty cube is probably best for you.

However, if you’re looking for a good set of packing cubes that can help you organise your clothes and gear, I’d suggest the Amazon Basics 4-piece set. This has everything you need for a small trip, and it’s great value for money.

Whichever cubes you go for, they’ll make your Osprey Farpoint 40 much more organised, giving you different compartments. The same goes for other similar backpacks. Trust me when I say, once you’ve used packing cubes, you won’t want to go back to one-compartment backpacks without them.