Interesting facts about backpacks

Even before taking its usual form, the backpack was made from completely different materials - wood and threads, animal skins, sacks, ropes and the like. Today, the backpack is a roomy accessory that features modern prints, compartments, metal pullers, straps and handles. GoPack backpacks are representatives of design trends and a variety of functionality. Let's look into the past and learn more interesting things about backpacks!

Word origin

The modern name came to us from the German language. According to the subtleties of the translation, ‘rucksack’ is a shoulder bag. The word is formed from two parts, nouns: ‘rücken’ - back and ‘sack’ - bag. In ancient times, a rucksack was considered a special bag to be carried on the back and has retained its purpose to this day.

The oldest mention of the existence of a rucksack takes us back to 3300 BC. According to the research of scientists, it was from those times there was a skeleton of a man found in a glacier in the Alps with the analogue of a backpack - a wooden frame and a leather bag on top. Simple rucksacks were also favoured by Roman legionaries and Knights Templar. 

Backpacks in the form of a duffle bag with straps were most used by the German military in the 18th and 19th centuries. This way, they could efficiently fulfil combat tasks and carry weapons in their hands. 

Dynamic creation

The invention of the backpack is a mysterious story, because it is not known exactly who was the first. Many similar ideas emerged independently and at different times.

One of the first patented rucksack models came from the designs of Norwegian Ole Bergan in 1908. He introduced the production of rucksacks for the Norwegian army by creating a base of wood and then steel that followed the contours of the back. 

During the same period, Lloyd Nels, an entrepreneur from the USA, developed an author's prototype using the concept of an Indian bag. The backpack was made entirely of leather and had straps to adjust the straps to the height of the owner.

After 50 years, the design of the hiking backpack was developed, and sports backpacks for mountaineers appeared. 

Already in the second half of the 20th century, more modern materials were used for backpacks, such as polyester, nylon, water-repellent fabrics. Such concepts as ergonomic backrests, chest straps, straps and the like were introduced. Subsequently, backpacks have become familiar assistants for school, travelling, sports and household use.

More amazing facts

• The backpack first appeared on a fashion show in 1985. Italian designer Miuccia Prada transformed tourist models into simple and small backpacks similar to modern backpacks.

• One of the most expensive backpacks in the world is considered to be the Louis Vuitton Crocodilian Leather Backpack, which costs around $79,000. It is made of rare crocodile leather in the colour Titanium Grey and features technical titanium buckles.

• Among the most original backpacks in the world stand out models that are made entirely of: recycled plastic bottles; recycled ocean plastic and a solar panel for recharging gadgets; recycled nylon.

The special charm of GoPack backpacks

The most interesting thing about GoPack backpacks is their trendy and modern look. GoPack models are an extravaganza of style, variety, and special design effects. The interweaving of colours, inscriptions, patterns, as well as rubber badges, pendants and many other decorative elements that impress.

GoPack is versatility and freedom of choice. Modern backpacks for school, work, travelling, walking around the city. They combine trends, comfort and safety. Sophisticated functionality and incredible designs of GoPack backpacks will accentuate your style and colour the ordinary!