zaino

Zaino is the Italian word for a backpack or rucksack—a bag worn on the back and carried with two shoulder straps. It is widely used by students to carry books and supplies, and by hikers and travelers for clothing and gear. Modern zaini are produced in a range of sizes and materials, including nylon, canvas, and leather, and often feature padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, multiple compartments, and additional elements such as a waist belt, sternum strap, rain cover, and hydration pocket.

Common types include zaino scolastico (school backpack), zaino da viaggio (travel backpack), and zaino per escursionismo (hiking backpack). In Italian usage, zaino denotes a bag worn on the back; other terms such as borsa (purse) and valigia (suitcase) refer to items carried by hand or placed in a vehicle. The concept corresponds to backpacks or rucksacks in other languages and is used by people of all ages in many contexts, from daily commuting to outdoor activities. Some brands produce specialized zaini designed for children, students, or tech-oriented users with compartments for laptops and hydration systems. See also backpack, rucksack.