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What are the loops on my backpack for? And what do the backpack straps do? We explain all the insanely useful backpack parts you didn't know about!
Most backpacks are packed (no pun intended) with functionalities – which you might not even know about! Everything from the shape of your backpack straps to the backpack loops on the bottom of your backpack, everything has a special function.
Here is our complete guide to all the different backpack parts, from compartments to backpack straps and backpack loops.
Once you understand how everything works, you can get even more use out of your favorite bag!
In this article we explain:
Here are all the important features on a hiking backpack. Looking for the right fit? Check out our hiking backpack fit guide for more information.
No matter how much you’re bringing, make sure the compression straps are tight when all your things are packed, so that the backpack sits as close as possible to your back. If it hangs loose, it will put more unwanted pressure on your shoulders.
Internal hydration pocket: This is the pocket inside your backpack used for storing a hydration reservoir. This compartment lets you thread the tube out of the backpack so that you have quick access to drinking water while on the trail.
Shoulder Straps
S-shaped curved backpack straps. Curved shoulder straps are more ergonomic, and the S-curved shoulder strap is the most so. It helps distribute the backpack weight evenly across your chest, so that you’re not just carrying the weight with your shoulders.
Sporty backpacks, large backpacks (over 30L) and hiking backpacks will often have an S-curved shoulder strap.J-shaped curved backpack straps are slightly more casual than the S-shaped curved straps, that still helps distribute weight across your chest. This is good if you carry heavy things on your everyday routine. You’ll find these straps on casual yet sporty backpacks.
Example: Thule Lithos 16L
Straight straps are more common for everyday carry backpacks which are smaller and carry a lighter load. The straight shape is more fashionable but can still be padded and comfortable.
Example: Thule Spira 15L
Convertible briefcase backpack straps: Some backpack straps can help convert your laptop backpack into a briefcase. This is great if your briefcase gets too heavy and you want to carry it as a backpack. Example: Thule Crossover 2 convertible laptop bag.
Shoulder straps with mesh: EVA and mesh materials increase the ventilation of your backpacks. It helps guarantee the shoulder straps don’t become a sweaty mess when you arrive at your destination.
Example: Thule Subterra 30L
Sternum straps: Sometimes called a chest strap, it attaches across your chest (no surprises there) and helps spread the weight more evenly. This helps take pressure away from your shoulders. This is common on sporty backpacks and hiking backpacks. But if you’re carry a heavy load to work, it might be a good feature to consider, too.
Example: Thule Chasm 26L
Compression straps: You know those strange backpack straps that seem to be going nowhere? Well, these handy straps serve three purposes.
Example: Thule Construct 24L
On a hiking backpack they’ll tend to look like this (the green straps on the side):
Example: Thule Alltrail 45L
Rear loading straps: Yet another pair of confusing backpack straps, the rear loading straps can be found at the bottom of your backpack. These straps are usually found on hiking backpacks and are super handy for attaching a sleeping bag or sleeping mat.
Example: Thule Accent 28L
Pass-through straps: These backpack straps are an ingenious way to make traveling easier. They let you securely attach your backpack to your suitcase and stroll around the airport with ease.
Example: Thule Spira 15L
Anti-theft straps: These are straps that can be attached around a pole or the armrest of a chair. This means that strangers won’t be able to walk by your bag and grab it when you’re not looking.
If you’ve ever wondered “What are the loops on my backpack for?” here are some of their important functions:
Lash tabs:The mysterious square or diamond shaped patches on your backpack are known as lash tabs. You can thread elastic cords or webbing through them and hang your gear.
Lash points are a modern version and are strategically placed on the backpack so that you can thread elastic cords or webbing through, and easily store even more gear. You can see the lash points on the backpack below, the silver loops on the front of the backpack.
Example: Thule Enroute Escort 2
Gear loops: These are backpack loops made of metal or fabric that you can use to attach even more gear. On the backpack below, you can see that gear loop below the front pocket.
Example: Thule Construct 24L
Bungee or Elastic Cords: Elastic cords go across your backpack to quickly store things like a jacket or a hat. These are useful when you’re on the go and don’t want to stop to put your stuff away.
Hidden Lash Points: Some backpacks have hidden, integrated loops sewn into the backpack itself. On these you can attach a carabiner and extra gear if necessary.
Example: Thule Enroute 20L
Daisy chain attachments: These are fabric loops that are integrated in the bag and remain somewhat hidden. Attach a carabiner to a daisy chain like this and you can easily bring a water bottle or other gear.
Example: Thule Chasm 26L
Bike light lash point: Most gear loops, if positioned correctly, can also double-up as bike light loops. Loops that are specifically designed for bike lights, though, tend to be positioned lower down on the bag, and are tighter. This ensures the bike light stays facing outwards so that cars can see it.
Top access: These are backpacks where you open the main compartment from the top. Most backpacks are top-access.
Example: Thule Subterra 23L
Front access: These are backpacks that usually open both from the top and in the front, like a duffel bag. They are popular because they let you easily access items that might be shoved at the bottom of your bag.
Example: Thule Vea 21L
Side access: When you can use a side zipper to also access the main compartment while keeping the top opening closed. This is especially useful if you want to put things back into your backpack on the go. Or if it’s raining and you don’t want to expose everything in your bag.
Example: Thule Paramount 24L
Bottom access: Especially common with larger hiking backpacks where you’ve packed tons of gear. A bottom access zip can help you access all the items that you’ve placed at the bottom of the backpack. If you’ve put a jacket at the bottom, for instance, you can reach it without taking out absolutely everything you brought with.
Example: Thule Capstone 40L
Fold-over opening: This type of opening is great for commuters since it ensures an extra layer of protection from the rain. This is because more fabric covers the opening and guarantees no water will get inside.
Example: Thule Paramount 24L
Magnetic Flap opening: This extra flap covering the opening of your backpack adds extra protection from the elements. It’s especially handy for bike commuters, since you simply let go of the magnetic flap and it automatically shuts closed. This means you can grab things on the go without fiddling with a buckle or button.
Example: Thule Paramount 27L
Flap with buckle: Also good for rain protection and closed with the help of a buckle. The added compression of the buckle can help, like with the compression straps, distribute weight more evenly.
Example: Thule Lithos 16L
Rolltop opening: Also good for weather protection and guarantees to keep the contents of your backpack dry. That’s why it is popular for bike commuting backpacks.
Example: Thule Pack ' n Pedal Commuter Backpack
U-shaped opening: A backpack with a U-shaped opening is wider than a traditional backpack and makes it easier to find things buried far down in your bag.
Example: Thule Accent 28L
Clamshell opening is when you can open your backpack like a suitcase. Perfect as a carry-on backpack for bringing luggage on a short flight.
The crush-resistant compartment: These are hard-shelled compartments that help keep your precious items protected. They stop things from getting crushed, cracked or broken while you’re going about your busy day.
Example: Thule Accent 20L
Hidden anti-theft pockets: Pockets under the shoulder straps or hidden on the back panel are useful for storing important items that you don’t want stolen. These backpacks are useful for travel or conferences when you might be carrying valuable items.
Example: Thule Tact Backpack
RFID Blocking material: What is RFID blocking material? Your credit card, ID card, passport or key cards all have microchips inside them that can be read using RFID technology (radio-frequency identification).
It’s the technology that allows your passport to be scanned and read without a human typing in all the details themselves. These items can even be read from several feet away!
RFID blocking material stops the transmission of the microchip’s information. An RFID blocking pocket in your backpack is made of RFID blocking materials and makes sure that no machine can read the microchip inside your belongings.
This ensures extra security and the protection of your personal information. It’s a great function for business and travel backpacks.
Example: Thule Crossover 2 30L
Power Pocket charging compartment: This is where you place your power bank and charge your electronics on the go. How do you use a backpack charging port? Place your charger in the charging port compartment and weave the cable through the allocated loops until it reaches your electronic gadget. Some even weave out of the bag so that you can charge your phone in your hand.
Example: Thule Subterra travel backpack 34L
Pocket for files and folders: Perfect for backpacks that you use to work or school, these make sure your documents stay straight and in one piece.
Example: Thule Crossover 2 20L
Bike helmet net: A net that attaches to a backpack and helps keep your helmet in place. Perfect for bike commuters who don’t want to drag their helmet around all day.
Example: Thule Pack 'n Pedal Commuter Backpack
Shoe Compartment: Certain backpacks have a specific compartment meant for shoes and dirty clothes. This is perfect if you use your backpack for working out and need to bring along a pair of sneakers.
Example: Thule Subterra Convertible Carry-On
Shove-it pocket: Pockets on the outside of your backpack that are super easy to access. This means you can easily shove a jacket or phone inside your bag while on the go.
Example: Thule Alltrail 45L
Shoulder strap pocket: Great for easy access to a metro card or train ticket.
Example: Thule Paramount backpack 27L
Hopefully you’ve learned a bit more about all possible backpack parts so that you can start using you bag to its full potential!