There are many handy products in the market for seniors today who are looking to make their lives easier. If you are looking for the best bags for senior citizens, you should definitely consider reliable backpacks. These types of bags are lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for any senior who is frequently on the go or who likes to travel.
Knowing what backpacks are best suited for seniors may be a little tricky, so here's a guide to help you choose a bag for every purpose and need.
Backpacks for seniors address their unique needs, as these have been well constructed and ergonomically designed in such a way that they do not put so much strain on your back, neck, or shoulders when you use them. Some straps are on the wider side, while others are padded to help ease age-related back pain.
Some backpacks may also have wheels to give you the option to pull and roll them instead when you are tired or need to take a break.
Below are a number of features to keep in mind when looking for your ideal bag. These are the top considerations for anyone looking for a new backpack, whether for travel or leisure.
When considering what backpack to get, capacity can be a big factor to make sure that it can hold a sufficient amount of things. You can also choose a backpack that has several compartments to hold products and items of different sizes.
The type of activity you willA legal document that states how a person's property should be managed and distributed after death. be using the backpack for will immediately tell you what models to look at. For example, you are using the bag for day-to-day activities, casual trails, or intense hikes.
The more intense the activity you will be using the backpack for, the more lightweight it should be. Consider backpacks that are more durable but weigh around one to two pounds.
Padding on straps or on the back of the bag itself can make it more comfortable, especially when worn. It can relieve back or shoulder pain and put less strain.
If you are planning on using your backpack primarily for outdoor activities, then a waterproof bag is the way to go to keep your things protected.
Backpacks with lots of compartments can provide greater ease of access, especially if you need to reach for your phone or other items. Consider bags with many compartments to organize your things.
Here is a shortlist of the best backpacks for seniors in 2022 to give you an idea of what your options are.
| Product Name | Osprey Daylite Daypack | NOMATIC Travel Pack Water Resistant Anti-Theft | The North Face Jester Backpack | SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA 17-Inch Laptop Backpack | Deuter Unisex Speed Lite 20 Hiking Backpack |
| Capacity | 13L | 40L | 28L | 37L | 20L |
| Weight | 1.05 lbs | 4 lbs | N/A | 3.3 lbs | 1 lb |
| Padding | Mesh-covered foam back panel | Yes | Mesh padded back panel | Padded shoulder straps | AirMesh shoulder straps |
| Waterproof | Yes (water-resistant) | Yes | No | Yes (water-resistant) | Yes |
| Ease of Access | Front zip pocket with a mesh organizer | Has 20 pockets | Multiple compartments that are easy to access | Multiple compartments including large padded device sleeves | Specialized compartments for different items |
The Osprey Daylite Daypack is a simple option for seniors who only need to bring around a light load. It can carry enough things for a one-day trip and is also water-resistant in case of sudden rain. It is durable as it is made of nylon and also has a mesh-covered foam back panel to provide ventilation and comfort.
Additionally, it has side pockets on the exterior of the bag to give you alternate storage options. The bag's main compartment can be accessed with its big zippered panel.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight | Side pockets are not so secure |
| Several color options | Back handle may be too high for some |
| Can attach to the brand's other bags | Not so flexible |
The NOMATIC Travel Pack is a great investment for a backpack, especially for those who travel a lot. It is very durable, especially the bag’s exterior. The inside of the bag is easy to access because of its full perimeter zipper. Plus, it can hold items of any size with its 20 compartments, all designed with a particular purpose in mind.
You have the option to expand the bag if you need more allowance and can convert it into a duffel bag as well.
| Pros | Cons |
| Comes with a detachable hip belt | Expensive |
| Water-resistant | On the heavier side |
| Can work as a carry-on bag | Pocket for a water bottle can be found inside |
Trusted brand The North Face's Jester Backpack is extremely versatile, making it a great backpack for anyone. Reviews for this bag are unanimously positive, as it has a FlexVent suspension system with comfortable straps and a lumbar panel that gives you even more ventilation.
It has two pockets made of mesh for water bottles and sleeves to hold laptops or tablets. It even comes with a whistle in case of emergencies.
| Pros | Cons |
| Padded sleeves for devices | On the bulkier side |
| Can stand on its own | Not waterproof |
| FlexVent suspension system | Stiff |
This SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Backpack was made for those who travel often. It accommodates laptop-in-case scanning when you have to make it past airport security. Its main compartment has an accordion file holder as well.
It also has another compartment that is RFID-protected. You can easily slip this over a travel trolley bag if you do not want to hold or wear it.
| Pros | Cons |
| Can fit a 17" laptop | Zipper is not so durable |
| Affordable | Customer service is not so responsive |
| Made for traveling | Not so sleek compared to other backpacks |
The Deuter Unisex Speed Lite 20 Hiking Backpack is a lightweight yet durable option for active seniors. It is ideal for outdoor activities and comes with a removable hip belt to minimize back pain. Its back panel is well-ventilated and wicks away sweat while you are hiking.
It even has a chest strap that can be adjusted according to your height, compression straps, and padded AirMesh shoulder straps. Its pockets are made of mesh for easy access and have 3M reflectors for better visibility.
| Pros | Cons |
| Water and abrasion-resistant | Not suited for every frame |
| Removable hip belt | No padding for bigger devices like laptops |
| Advanced ergonomic design | Adding more things inside distorts its form |
If you are looking to learn more about senior backpacks to stay on-trend, here are some frequently asked questions about features, travel, comfort, and more!
There are a number of backpacks with wheels in the market today, making it easier for you to travel and to ease off the weight on your back. As an alternative, other backpacks have straps you can easily slip on trolley bags so that you can wheel them around.
North Face is known for its high-quality products, and its Jester Backpack is one of the best backpacks for senior citizens as it is versatile, spacious, and provides sufficient ventilation.
There are several durable backpack brands for seniors who want to travel, hike, or bring a lot of things around. Some of the most well-designed and comfortable backpack brands for seniors based on reviews include Osprey, NOMATIC, North Face, SwissGear, and Deuter.
Look for a bag that is comfortable and provides you with all the features you need to make traveling easy and fun. Check out some of our other articles on products for seniors for more advice. Contact Senior Strong today!
