An essential piece of kit for any hiker, the backpack allows you to carry everything you need for outdoor outings. Its volume is measured in litres and indicates how much hiking equipment it can hold. When choosing one, you need to consider the build and fitness of the person carrying it, as well as the type and duration of the outing. Here are some tips to help you choose the right hiking backpack size.
Key takeaways:
- Hiking backpack size can be determined by the duration and type of outing.
- A pack of 10 to 35 litres is recommended for a day hike.
- A pack of 30 to 70 litres is ideal for several days outdoors.
- A pack of more than 50 litres is needed for a long hike.
Backpack size for a day hike
If you've bought hiking backpacks, you might be wondering which pack to choose for a day outing. We recommend going for a pack with a volume between 10 and 35 litres. The smallest and lightest option possible is ideal for carrying just the essentials on a short, intense outing.
A slightly larger volume lets you carry your packed lunch, water, sunscreen, and a few small accessories. If you're heading out as a family, especially with young children, go for a 35-litre pack. This gives you enough room to carry their gear so they don't get too tired.
Backpack size for a multi-day hike
Choosing the right size hiking backpack becomes more complex when you're heading into the mountains for several days. The volume will depend on your accommodation and resupply conditions. The best hiking backpack is ultimately the one that fits your type of outing.
For several days with meals and nights in a refuge, you can opt for a pack between 30 and 40 litres. If you're sleeping in a refuge but carrying your own food, a volume between 50 and 60 litres is a good choice. Finally, for full self-sufficiency, we suggest a pack of 60 to 70 litres. This gives you enough room to carry your bivvy, cooking, and hiking gear.
Backpack size for a long hike or extended trek
If you've decided to take on a long hiking route or extended trek, the choice — and especially the size — of your hiking pack should not be taken lightly. A minimum volume of 50 litres is recommended for trips involving nights and meals in a mountain refuge. You can add 10 extra litres if meals are not included in your accommodation.
Finally, we recommend going for a pack of 70 litres or more for a long hike in full self-sufficiency. This gives you enough room to carry all your bivvy and cooking gear, as well as sufficient clothing including outfits suitable for all weather conditions.
Also think about maintenance and find out how to wash a hiking backpack.
Other factors to consider
In addition to the recommended capacity based on the duration and type of your outings, the size of a hiking backpack depends on several factors. The first is your build. You'll need to choose the size and shape of your pack based on your back length. For women, there are specific packs designed to fit the female form.
Your fitness level will also influence your choice of hiking backpack size. Bear in mind that once packed, your pack should not exceed 10 to 15% of your body weight. Smaller frames and children should stick to the lower end of that range, while more muscular athletes can afford to load their pack a little more.
Finally, trail difficulty, weather conditions, the number of people sharing the load, or the need to carry specific gear (cameras, children's equipment, dog accessories) also play a role in choosing your hiking backpack size. Its volume is therefore likely to vary constantly depending on your own outings.
