mochila
neutral, Mexico
In Mexico a backpack is a mochila. It is the everyday word for a school bag or a bag for travel and hiking.
A backpacker is un mochilero. To say "to travel with a backpack" Mexicans say viajar de mochilero.
Meaning: bag worn on the back (noun)
Which one should you use?
A purse or handbag is a different thing in Mexico and is called bolsa, so do not use mochila for it.
Did you know?
- The related word mochilero is used for travelers who carry only a backpack.
Examples in context
- Olvidé mi mochila en la escuela.I forgot my backpack at school.
- Mi mochila pesa mucho.My backpack is very heavy.
- Se fue de mochilero por el sur.He went backpacking through the south.
Example conversation
Paola helps her little brother Memo pack his school bag.
- PaolaMemo, ¿ya tienes tu mochila?Memo, do you have your backpack?
- MemoSí, pero me falta el cuaderno.Yes, but I am missing the notebook.
- PaolaEstá en la mesa.It is on the table.
