# backpack vs backpacker

> English confusable word pair

## The two words

### backpack
*noun · IPA /ˈbæk.pæk/ · frequency rank #9,851*
A knapsack, sometimes mounted on a light frame, but always supported by straps, worn on a person’s back for the purpose of carrying things, especially when hiking, or on a student's back when carrying books.

### backpacker
*noun · frequency rank #44,631*
A traveler whose luggage consists of a backpack; especially, such a traveler who uses hostels, public transport, and other inexpensive services.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/vs/backpack-vs-backpacker