Lockable zippers can make a travel backpack more controlled in airports, hostels, trains and shared spaces by allowing two zipper pulls to be joined with a small lock. The feature is useful as a deterrent and organization tool, but it does not make a soft backpack theft-proof. Fabric, straps and other compartments remain physically accessible in ways a small zipper lock cannot solve.Quick Answer:...

Load lifters are small straps that connect the upper shoulder harness to the top of a backpack. When the backpack has enough structure and fits the wearer correctly, these straps can help pull the upper load closer to the body and fine-tune how a heavier bag carries. They are common on hiking packs and some larger travel backpacks, but they are not automatically useful...

Travel backpacks without hip belts are often lighter, cleaner and easier to use in airports, trains, hotels and crowded city streets. For many travelers, that simplicity is a real advantage. A hip belt is most useful when a backpack is heavy enough and structured enough to transfer load to the hips. If the bag is compact, lightly packed or primarily used for urban travel,...