backpack vs rucksack

[jeepmedic46]

Which would be better to carry a laptop and a gps unit and a book back and fourth from work? A backpack or a rucksack?

[Spikepretorius]

Is this a trick question?
I thought they are two names for the same thing, with rucksack being the vintage name and backpack the more modern name

[jeepmedic46]

Not a trick question, Thought they were different.

[bucketosudz]

Alot of it would depend on the amount of ancillary items you would be carrying also. A messenger bag is a good option with a single sling-over your shoulder strap. There are a variety of those types out there. If you will be hoofing it a great distance a backpack or rucksack would be handy. I personally have always had a hard time with single strap bags, they seem to always be slipping down my shoulder, so I almost always opt for a backpack. Another option you might consider:http://www.bbpbags.com/

Just a thought.

[jeepmedic46]

Thank you for that site, I think I like the backpack better as well.

[off-roader]

Which would be better to carry a laptop and a gps unit and a book back and fourth from work? A backpack or a rucksack?

Rucksack = backpack in case you haven't figured that out yet.

I use one to transport those items as well as my camera gear. I have one for my camera gear + an up to 17" laptop. I have another coupled with a laptop protective sleeve that I use to transport it and misc. other items as required.

I prefer this to a messenger bag/laptop bag because I can share the load between both shoulders and minimize wear and tear on my back.

[tdesanto]

Rucksack is the German word for backpack. We borrow it just like many words, such as Zeitgeist, Angst, or Kindergarten.

[Flounder]

The term "rucksack" has been adopted these days to refer to a small top loading backpack with a flap for a lid. Not many of this style around anymore. The term "Klettersack" also works here. I think Lowe Alpine used to have a pack they called, the "Klettersack."

Check out www.Timbuk2.com They have tons of options for laptops. I have Timbuk2 courier bags going on 15 years old and they look brand new.

Rucksack does sound better than the French version: sac a do. Back sack.

[AveryS]

I love my Maxpedition Kodiak

http://www.gmstactical.com/makoge.html

Maxped also makes a smaller one called the Stika, I believe. The single strap is surprisingly comfortable and the fact that you can swing the pack around to your front and access the bags entire contents without taking it off is a great feature for me, especially when traveling.

Avery

[Baja4X4]

You kids have no clue. A military rucksack is an exterior metal frame pack. Used extensively in VN it held 90+ pounds plus rolled sleeping gear or my fav jungle hamock. A back pack is what you guys use to carry books and homework Old soldiers never die they just smell that way.