The backpack or rucksack, in its simplest form, is a cloth sack carried on one’s back secured with two straps that go over the shoulders. I have grown to appreciate the practical albeit – in my opinion – not so stylish uses for this particular backpack. Known for its sturdy outdoor gear, Eastern Mountain Sports, is the maker of my blue carry-all. With its soft adjustable, foam straps, smaller internal and external compartments, two sided water bottle carriers, and chest/ hip strap, it truly is my ideal bag for both athletics and school work. I normally carry a heavy load of a filled water bottle, change of clothes, books, cell phone, pens etc inside especially when travelling straight from class to crew practice. I first made the switch from an over the shoulder bag to this gem when my normal carrier became too strained with the weight of all its contents. Ever since then my backpack has seen many miles of walking and even running, crossed a several oceans, and been through the wash a few times after taking it to muddy crew regattas. With its useful practicality, it is in worldwide use especially being identified with students and people for whom load bearing is apart of their daily lives, like soldiers.