Roll On With a Wheeled Backpack

Maybe you haven't wheeled a backpack since grade school, but it's time to take another look at rolling packs to take the load off your back.

We all travel on planes and trains and buses lugging our backpacks loaded to the max. With laptops and files and electronic gear to haul each day, the load on your shoulders is not light. And your back bears the weight of this load far too much.

We tend to forget that there's another option available. Wheels are not just for large luggage bags or school bags. There are a number of professional styled packs that offer carry on advantages besides the ease of rolling through airports and campus and urban walkways.

Whether for business travel or holidays, a wheeled pack stores plenty of gear to take on-board and takes the stress off your back for a double bonus of convenience and health.

Here are a few selection factors to consider when searching for a wheeled backpack:

Wheel Quality - Buy the best quality rollers. Cheaper wheels wear out too fast and cannot take the punishment of pavements and stairs.

Retractable Handle - Get a long handle to prevent heel clipping spills and bent over walks. A good telescoping handle should self-lock into one or two position.

Ergonomics - Function and comfort are critical. Make sure the wheels rotate easy with heavy loads and the handle allows you to stand up properly.

Carry On Potential - Check the measurements for compliance to most airline carry on regulations, whether in the upper compartment or under the seat.

Balance The Load - Check the weight distribution for big loads and seek a balance for rolling without hindrance and to ensure the pack stands up on its own.

For a starting point check out the Jansport Driver 8 wheeled backpack to get an idea of a popular bag that gets good reviews on Amazon.