Which hiking backpack should you choose?
Setting off on a multi-day trekking trip is no small undertaking. Choosing the right hiking backpack is therefore essential: not too big, not too small. To help you choose the right trekking pack for your adventure, here are a few guidelines for estimating the best capacity to take with you.
Choosing the right capacity for your hiking backpack
There are 4 categories of hiking backpacks based on trip duration: the day hiking backpack, the 2-to-3-day hiking backpack, the long-distance hiking pack for trips over 3 days, and finally the trekking backpack for extended expeditions. Choosing the right hiking backpack size is essential to avoid discomfort and nasty surprises!
The capacity of a hiking pack is given in litres, also referred to as "volume". Check the name of the backpack to find the capacity of the model in question. As a general rule, here is what is recommended:
- Day hiking: 10 to 35 litres
- Short hike, between 2 and 3 nights: 25 to 40 litres
- Multi-day trek, between 3 and 7 nights: 40 to 70 litres
- Trekking trip of more than 7 nights: more than 60 litres
The term trekking or trek refers to hiking of long duration, through wild or hard-to-reach terrain (high altitude).
Key features for choosing your Trekking backpack
For adventure hikes, often punctuated by bivouacs or nights in a refuge, several criteria need to be considered to find the best hiking pack.
Fastenings and frame
The carrying system is probably the first criterion to look at. On a trekking trip, carrying comfort is vital — it can mean the difference between pushing on and turning back. The success of your mountain adventure depends on choosing the right hiking backpack.
To avoid back and shoulder pain, cleverly positioned straps help relieve the upper body during your walk. Pack weight is better distributed by bringing your hips into the equation — they can carry up to 70% of your hiking pack's weight! The different fastenings are as follows:
- Around the waist: it is strongly recommended to choose a backpack with a padded hip belt to avoid pressure on the hips;
- Chest strap: in addition to keeping the hiking backpack's shoulder straps in place, it helps distribute the load evenly across the shoulders;
- Load lifter straps: located at the shoulder straps, they are used to fine-tune the position of your backpack so it sits correctly at collarbone level.
Please note: manufacturers design hiking backpack models specifically for women. The back dimensions are generally shorter and narrower to fit the female torso. Women's body shape is also taken into account, particularly at the hips, with contoured hip belts shaped to follow the curves of the body.
Next, the frame is another element to consider in the carrying system. In shops, you'll find hiking backpacks both with and without frames. For long distances and multi-day treks, a framed backpack is generally recommended. The advantage is that these trekking bags can carry heavier loads and offer increased resistance.
Weight and moisture management
It's true that during intense effort, your body needs freedom of movement. But in multi-day trekking mode, the pack is often fully loaded. The weight of the backpack can then become a challenge, especially with a reinforced structure. Frame weight was long a drawback. Originally positioned on the outside of the pack, it is now cleverly integrated to avoid adding unnecessary bulk.
It's also advisable to pack only the essentials in your hiking gear, namely enough to:
- stay hydrated and fuelled
- navigate
- stay dry and warm, or cool, depending on the season
Beyond weight, a hiking backpack can quickly become a burden. In summer, for instance, moisture management at the back is crucial. Today, packs with excellent ventilation are available. Mesh panels and perforated materials are used on the contact points — hip belt, shoulder straps and back panel — to improve airflow.
Storage and compartments
Finally, the practicality of the hiking backpack is worth considering. Openings, storage placement and usefulness, number of compartments — all of these contribute to keeping your kit organised.
To be more precise, here are the key points to keep in mind:
- easily accessible storage for small items (map, compass, tissues, pocket knife, energy bar)
- space for a hydration bladder (so you don't have to take off your pack every time you need a drink)
- compartment for the rain cover (in case of sudden weather changes)
- compartment for the sleeping bag (to keep your down dry and protected)
- external straps to attach useful gear (walking poles, solar battery).
Once your backpack is ready, make sure you're also geared up for hiking in the rain with the right clothing. Also check out our mountaineering backpacks, compatible with harness wear and built for the most demanding terrain.
And for bivvy camping, follow the advice of a specialist:
Photos Dimitri Elledge
