Backpacks

[Iamtheoneandonly]

Something I've noticed recently is so many people carrying backpack bags, male and female. It's not just Spanish students, it's everyone. Have you noticed the same?

[Canary42]

No

[calmck]

Noticed it last time I was on the Tube in London and got whacked when someone turned round quickly

[Buenchico]

There has long been a trend for a crossover between 'sportswear' and 'leisurewear'. (i.e. millions of people who never participate in sports still wear sportswear). It seems that some good marketing tactics, from firms such as Go Outdoors and Millets, are now encouraging a trend for a crossover between hiking gear (such as backpacks) and everyday bags.

It's to be welcomed, of course, because
(a) it's an excellent way to carry loads and far better for one's posture than carrying a heavy bag at one's side ; and
(b) people will no longer automatically suspect that you're a terrorist bomber when you use a backpack on the Tube!

It seems though that the correct term for the smaller type of backpacks that are now being used by many people (rather than the massive rucksacks that are popular with hikers) is, according to the marketers, either a 'daysack' or a 'daypack':
https://www.millets.co.uk/equipment/rucksacks-bags/daysacks/

[Iamtheoneandonly]

It's something I only previousl noticed with homeless people.

[Iamtheoneandonly]

Previously ^

[pastafreak]

I've been carrying one for years...great for food shopping. Easier on my arms and hands. I'm an oldie...and not homeless.

[Redhelen72]

Not something new at all it was popular when I lived in London 18 years ago and I note on my monthly visits now that it’s even more popular.
Very practical when you consider most people carry around laptops and lunches etc

[Samuraisan]

I have two. Usually Iuse them when travelling. Once I had a purse stolen out of one, so now I have mini padlocks on the zips. Not very convenient for casual shopping, but fine when wondering.

[Samuraisan]

Wandering.