Ultimate Backpack Size Guide – What Size Backpack Do I Need?
Picking the right backpack can be confusing, especially when buying online without a chance to see it inside. A good guide makes it easier to compare and tell the difference between a big and small one just by looking at the front and checking the capacity. The standard way to pick the best fit is by knowing your goal—whether it’s for daily use or travel. A simple visual reference can give a ballpark idea, but actually reading size details helps ensure it will fit your needs. Next time you’re shopping for a new one, do it with confidence using these tips!
Backpack capacity is usually measured in either cubic inches (in³) or liters (L)
Backpack manufacturers often measure volume in liters or cubic inches, but for simplicity, it’s best to focus on common size ranges. A simpler way to categorize them is by breaking them into three groups:
small (under 19L), medium (20-29L), and large (30-39L). Many brands, including Backpackies, follow this universal method, making determining the right fit easier. To divide them correctly, just note that a small one is great for essentials, a medium works for daily use, and a large is ideal for extra gear.
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- Small Backpacks (Under 19L)
- Medium Backpacks (20-29L)
- Large Backpacks (30-39L)
Backpacks over 40L
A good guide should cover all types of backpacks, especially those over 40 liters, which are considered large and ideal for travel, hiking, or backpacking. Unlike daypacks used for school, work, or commuting, these are reserved for longer trips, allowing multiple days of loading all necessary gear. If you need an everyday carry, it’s better to stick to options under 39 liters, as they fit more comfortably into daily routines.
Small Backpacks (Under 19L)
Backpacks under 19 liters are best used for:
- Essential daily carry (keys, water bottle, sunglasses and other small items)
- Tech carry (laptop, tablet and accessories)
- Travel day bags
What fits inside a 13L backpack?
- Large headphones
- Small book
- Sweater
- 1-inch binder
- Up to 13” laptop
What fits inside a 16L backpack?
- Large headphones
- Small book
- Water bottle
- Sweater
- 2x 1-inch binders
- Up to 13” laptop
SMALL BACKPACKS: Limited Laptop Carry
Backpacks under 14 liters are great for minimal tech needs but have a small laptop sleeve or just a tablet compartment. If you need to carry laptops 13-inches or smaller, these work well, but for larger devices, it’s best to start with the 15-19 liter range. Some models even fit up to 15-inches, but checking before purchase ensures the right fit.
SMALL BACKPACKS: Essentials Only
Backpacks under 19 liters are perfect for carrying essentials only, making them a great choice for personal items, tech, and daily needs. With limited room, they work best for a simple backpack to carry a laptop, water bottle, snacks, and chargers, but not large books or binders.
Many travelers recommend them as a secondary item for airline travel, while they also serve as a key takeaway for light packing. They’re ideal when you need to pack just enough for an overnight stay without the need to compromise on space for extra cables or a smaller bag for work. However, if you need more space over time, consider a bigger option.
Medium Backpacks (20-29L)
Backpacks 20-29L are best used for:
- School and college (laptop, multiple books and notebooks)
- Camera backpacks (DSLR camera, lenses and accessories)
- Work and gym backpacks (Work items + change of clothes)
What fits inside a 20L backpack?
- Large headphones
- Small book
- 2x hoodies or sweaters
- Water bottle
- 2x 1-inch binders
- Up to 15” laptop
What fits inside a 25L backpack?
- Large headphones
- Water bottle
- Small book
- 2x hoodies or sweaters
- DSLR camera insert
- 2x 1-inch binders
- Up to 15” laptop
Medium Backpacks: The Jack of all Trades
Medium-size backpacks between 20-29 liters are the Goldilocks choice for most people, offering more space than small options but not as bulky as large ones. They are ideal for everyday carry, fitting into the category of school, work, and commuting needs. With roomier main compartments, they can fit larger objects like camera gear, extra clothing, and multiple books while still having padded sleeves to accommodate laptops 15 or 16 inches
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Large Backpacks (30-39L)
Backpacks 30-39L are best used for:
- Extra large school backpacks (multiple large textbooks)
- Travel backpacks (weekend and carry-on)
- Large laptops (17” and 18”)
What fits inside a 30L backpack?
- Large headphones
- Water bottle
- Small book
- 2x hoodies or sweaters
- DSLR camera insert
- Large textbook
- 2x 1-inch binders
- Up to 15” Laptop
What fits inside a 35L backpack?
- Large headphones
- Pencil case or dopp kit
- Water bottle
- Pair of shoes
- 2x hoodies or sweaters
- Small book
- 2x 1-inch binders
- DSLR camera insert
- Large textbook
- Up to 15” laptop
Large Backpacks: Who needs a backpack this large?
For those needing backpacks over 30 liters, this size isn’t overkill but a necessity. While most people don’t need a large bag for daily carry, it’s perfect for students carrying an entire day’s worth of books, lunch, and materials for activities, sports, or the gym. Professionals with long work hours may also recommend them to pack a change of clothes, shoes, and other essential items.
It’s important to note that a much larger backpack can be hard to handle for those used to smaller options, as finding one that fits properly can be tricky. A poorly designed bag with bad shoulder straps or stiff back panels can increase the chances of discomfort, especially for different bodies. This is where it pays to choose models designed for women’s fit, which better accommodate slim shoulders and shorter torsos, preventing the bag from feeling too heavy on one side or making you feel uncomfortable all day.
Large Backpacks: Enter the Travel Backpack
For trips that require more than a day’s worth of essentials, travel backpacks in the 30-39 liter range are the ideal choice. They start at just over 30 liters, offering the capacity to carry multiple days of clothing while still being compact. This sweet spot balances packing room and portability, ensuring the main compartments can hold bulkier items like shoes without making the bag too heavy.
Large Backpacks: XL Laptop Sleeves
If you need a bag that fits larger devices, backpacks in the 30-39 liter size range are a great choice. In these sizes, you can expect to find options with extra-large laptop storage, making them ideal for carrying a 18-inch laptop without worrying about the footprint taking up too much space.
What Else You Should Know
Larger capacity = larger backpack
A basic rule of thumb is that a larger capacity means a bigger backpack, which can impact how well it fits different people. Those who benefit from wearing a smaller bag, especially individuals with slim shoulders or short torsos, should stick to under 20 liters. Many women’s designs follow this common approach to accommodate a more comfortable fit.
Backpack capacity is only part of the story
A backpack’s capacity isn’t the only thing that matters—its materials, shape, and overall design also impact how well it fits your needs. Two bags with the same number of liters can hold very different amounts, depending on how much space is used efficiently and what actually fits inside.
Example:
I tested two backpacks, the 16-liter Day Owl Backpack and the 19-liter Venque Amsterdam 2.0, and while the second one technically had more capacity, both could fit the same stuff. The smaller bag was surprisingly spacious, which made me wonder why. The answer lay in the shape, materials, and features.
The Day Owl had a clamshell design and was made of flexible waxed canvas material, which allows itself to flex and cram extra items inside.
In contrast, the main compartment of the Venque bag had a ridged fabric that made it hard to keep its shape even when empty. Its top-loading style was also less forgiving when filling something inside, a key factor to keep in mind when determining exactly how much you can pack.
This comparison clearly concludes that capacity alone doesn’t tell the full story. If you want to learn more, I encourage you to look at other guides before choosing the perfect backpack.
An Essential Guide to Backpack Sizes and Volumes
Choosing the right backpack can be confusing with an endless array of options available. Sizes and volumes are measured in liters, but that’s just the start—plus, they come in different styles with various attachments, zippers, and pockets that can change how much you can actually pack. To make sense of it all, focus on both the listed capacity and the design features that impact real-world storage.
What is the difference between backpack sizes?
Which one is best for me?
Is there a difference between travel backpacks and the ones I might take on a weekend camping trip?
If you’re planning your first backpacking trip or replacing luggage with a convenient travel backpack, understanding different sizes and volumes can feel overwhelming. Don’t feel intimidated—these are common questions you can ask a sales rep at a local outdoor outfitter without fear of judgment. The key difference between a 20L daypack and a 50L option is their capacity, but doing research before buying ensures you’re prepared to pick the perfect one for your needs.
If you’re embarking on an epic adventure, the fit of your pack is just as important as its capacity. Whether you’re hiking in a nearby park or traveling across the world, the number of items you carry and the weight you’re willing to lug will determine the right departments and size.
A poorly fitting backpack can make or break your entire experience. Don’t focus solely on volume—think of it like choosing between a small appetizer and a main course. The right pick depends on your needs, whether you’re navigating mountains or rushing through international airports.
How Do you Measure Backpack Sizes?
Unlike regular luggage, camping and travel backpacks are measured based on their carrying capacity, not just their dimensions. Most backpacking packs don’t follow a set structure like rectangular shapes but have curved designs to conform to your body, making them more comfortable.
This allows you to better understand how much they can hold, which is crucial when planning an extended trip across the world. However, sizing can be confusing since different companies use varying units of measurement when describing volume.
Backpack sizes are generally expressed in liters or cubic inches, but some brands also provide nicer sizing charts for universal consumer convenience. Since the metric system is more mainstream, choosing a size becomes easier with liter measurements. It’s not always outright clear, though—for example,
when I lived six months in Puerto Rico and traveled through Central America, I used an Osprey Aura 50L. While the name tells you the amount, it’s not the exact measurement but the nearest whole number as a baseline. If you have trouble visualizing, a common visualization guide is a Nalgene water bottle, which is a standard one-liter size—so theoretically, a 50L backpack could dump 50 bottles inside.
When completing your gear list, knowing how volume works is just one part. For comparison, a 61L backpack may fit only slightly more than a 50L one, depending on its shape. I finally noticed that different brands design packs for men and women separately, adjusting the shape and hip fit for comfort.
Since hiking needs vary, and everyone’s frame is different, there’s no single best pack for all. Some brands correlate volume with fit, so how the backpack sits on your back in a store matters as much as its listed capacity.
A good salesperson can measure your torso and buckle the straps properly, ensuring the weighted bean bags inside make the pack feel comfortable for at least a few minutes. It’s important to note that the fit isn’t always correlated with volume—if you have a petite frame, a bulky 60L pack might feel overwhelming even if it’s technically your size.
How to Choose Your Perfect Backpack Size
The better you handle numbers, the easier it is to pick the right backpack the first time. Start by knowing what kind of adventures you plan to take—are you strictly doing day hikes, planning a thru-hike, or packing for weekend trips? If you’re looking for the best travel option, choose one that allows you to carry everything you need for a quick getaway or an extended journey through Europe in summer. A common capacity ranges from small daypacks to large trekking bags, so find one that correlates with your standard adventure uses to avoid overpacking.
The Essentialist (Daypack) → 0-10 liters
If you prefer carrying a pack with less weight, a 10-liter daypack is perfect for packing light and staying simple. These hydration-style bags work well for trail runs or short outings, offering a small size that’s comfy to wear. While they don’t hold much, they can cover essentials like water, a snack, a light jacket, and first aid supplies for minor emergencies.
The Transient Traveler (Overnight Trips or Extended Day Hikes) → 10-30 liters
If you are planning a day hike that truly takes all day or involves other activities, like rock climbing or canyoneering, you may need something a bit larger. A 10-30 liter pack provides enough space to fit the extra food, water, clothing layers, first aid supplies, and gear needed for longer adventures without feeling too bulky.
A 30-liter pack can also be something you use for a quick overnight out and back trip in warm, dry weather.
Expedition Edition (Ultra-Light Thru-Hike, Weekend Trip, or International Travel) → 30-50 liters
If you’re heading on an extended camping trip or an upcoming international trip, upgrading to a 30L-50L travel backpack is a smart move. This size range is perfect for carrying sleeping, cooking, and camping gear, making it ideal for 5-6 days of adventure. For thru-hiking, many hikers follow a minimalist philosophy, packing light to cover miles at a faster pace while restocking when needed.
Going Off The Grid (Multi-Day Backpacking) → 50-70 liters
If you’re planning a 10-day break deep in the woods or high in the mountains, a larger capacity pack is a must. This size gives you enough room to carry food, water, a filter, and standard camping gear while allowing for luxury items like books, a pillow, and extra clothes. Unlike a quick vacation-style trip, this setup ensures you’re fully prepared to be alone and out of contact with society and friends.
Pathfinder (Winter Multi-Day Trip or Hiking Guide) → 70+ liters
A larger 70-liter pack may seem ridiculous at first, but in the right situation, it becomes absolutely necessary. If you’re venturing into colder conditions in the mountains, your cold-weather camping equipment and clothing will be bulkier, requiring a larger backpack size to fit everything. Others rely on you? If you’re a backpacking guide or traveling with kids, you’ll need to carry extra safety equipment and possibly even some of their gear.
If you’re new to this level of backpacking, it’s smart to practice packing before your first trip. Pack out your entire camping gear list, then test your backpack by walking stairs or going on a short hike. The right size isn’t just about what you think you need—it’s about what you can happily carry for miles. Also, remember that a backpack over 50L is usually too big for an overhead bin as a carry-on for international flights, so think about your traveling needs before making a purchase.
What is the Best Size for a Travel Backpack?
Backpacks aren’t reserved for outdoor adventures!
A lot of people ditch a suitcase for long term travel. Especially when staying in a hostel or moving from country to country a lot. I personally only use a backpack when doing an international trip. My best advice in this situation is to get something that can be considered a carry on bag. This will ensure that your belongings stay with you and you can avoid the check baggage fees.
Most airlines allow carry-on luggage up to 22″ x 14″ x 9″. You may also see a limit of 45 linear inches (length + width + height).
Now we have to use those backpack size conversions I mentioned above.
A pack measuring 22″ x 14″ x 9″ is 2,772 cubic inches in volume. Just multiply the three measurements together. 2,772 cubic inches translates to 45.2 liters. A 45-liter pack will afford you all the space you will need for international travels with none of the hassles of checked luggage.
Just be sure to check before you purchase a plane ticket! All airline rules are a smidge different, especially budget airlines (lookin’ at you Spirit and Ryanair, fans).
That’s a great tip for international travel! Sticking to a carry-on-sized backpack saves time, money, and hassle. Plus, avoiding checked luggage means no lost bags and faster airport exits. Do you have a favorite 45L travel backpack you’d recommend?
What’s Next?
Backpack sizes shouldn’t intimidate you anymore!
So maybe you’ve decided the right capacity or volume your pack needs to be. Let’s not forget how it should fit.
Nothing makes a great adventure go south like an incessant pinch between your shoulder blades. Having a pack that fits well is important. It will be one of the best time investments you make when it comes to planning your adventure travels.
I believe that pairing the right sizing in liters with the perfect backpack fit is something you can do yourself!
It sounds like you’ve covered everything about backpack sizes—capacity, fit, and even practical tips for choosing the right one. Do you need help organizing this information further, like into a structured guide or checklist?
How to Choose a Backpack
Planning to buy a new pack for backpacking?
There are three main areas where you’ll need to make choices if you want a pack for overnight or multiday trips. Backpacking packs are designed to haul a heavy load and have features that make it easy to stash food, gear like sleeping bags and tents, and clothes.
- Backpack capacity: The size of the pack you’ll need is tied to the length of your trip and how much weight and bulk you want to carry. Most backpacking packs start at about 45 liters and can range to 80 liters.
- Backpack features: These refinements affect how the pack works for you, like pockets, sleeping bag compartments, raincover, removable day packs and more.
Backpack fit:
Torso length—not your height—matters most
When backpacking, the size and capacity of your pack are crucial, especially when you need to haul a heavy load. Packs come in a range of liters, allowing you to stash everything from food, gear, and sleeping bags to tents and clothes. The length of your trip and the weight of your gear directly affect the bulk and comfort of the backpack.
Choosing the right pack depends on how much capacity you need and how features like pockets, compartments, and a raincover can help you stay organized. Some packs also come with removable day packs, ideal for shorter trips. Ensuring the fit based on your torso height can make all the difference, and these refinements are especially important for comfort during longer journeys.
Types of Backpacks
Weekend (1-3 nights; 30-50 liters)
For newer packers, switching to lighter gear and less-bulky backpacks can make a huge difference. With the right packing techniques, you can pull off light-on-your-feet trips while still carrying everything you need. The range of light gear available today helps you travel without feeling weighed down. Achieving this requires self-discipline and careful planning to maximize space while minimizing weight. The rewards are fantastic—you’ll experience more efficient travel, easier movement, and a more enjoyable journey.
Multiday (3-5 nights; 50-80 liters)
When it comes to backpacking and multisport activities, REI offers some of the most popular and excellent packs. For warm-weather trips lasting several days, packs in the 50- to 80-liter range are a great choice. These packs are designed for those venturing into the backcountry or enjoying activities like skiing, ensuring you have ample space for gear without feeling too bulky. Whether you’re going on a shorter hike or an extended journey, these backpacks provide the right balance of comfort and storage, letting you travel luxuriously while keeping everything you need close by.
Extended-trip (5+ nights; 70 liters or larger)
For extended trips lasting 5+ nights, packs in the 70 liters or larger range are the preferred choice. These packs are ideal for backpacking and treks where you need to accommodate extra gear, such as a warmer sleeping bag, a 4-season tent, and poles. They also provide ample space for clothing and any other essential items to keep you comfortable throughout the days and nights. Whether you’re planning for winter conditions or a long summer adventure, these larger packs can comfortably hold everything you need. For families, this is the perfect option to carry the necessary gear for both Mom, Dad, and kids, ensuring that everyone has what they need for a great time on the trail.
Backpack Features
Frame Type
Internal frame backpacks:
The majority of packs sold at REI feature an internal frame, which is designed to provide a body-hugging fit. This type of frame offers better load-support, allowing the pack to maintain a stable structure even on uneven or off-kilter terrain. The hidden back panel helps transfer the load more efficiently to the wearer’s hips, reducing strain on the back and shoulders. Many internal frame packs incorporate a variety of technologies that improve comfort and performance, making them a great choice for hikers who need a pack that will perform well under tough conditions.
External frame backpacks:
When considering external frame backpacks, it’s important to focus on how their structure can provide extra support for carrying heavy and irregular load. These backpacks are designed with a frame extends outside the pack, usually made from durable materials like aluminum.
This design helps distribute the weight more evenly, making it an appropriate choice for carrying oversize tent or even an inflatable kayak. The hardware used in these backpacks is built for durability and strength, so you can rely on it for long, challenging treks.
Another key benefit is ventilation: the outside of the pack allows for better airflow, keeping your back cooler and more comfortable on those long hiking days. Additionally, the gear organization in these packs is top-notch, offering several options for stashing your essentials in an organized way.
Whether you’re trekking through rough terrains or packing for an extended outdoor adventure, the external frame offers a versatile and reliable solution to meet your needs.
Frameless backpacks:
For those who prefer an ultralight approach to hiking or climbing, frameless packs are a popular choice among devotees. These packs are ideal for fast and light hikes where every ounce matters, offering significant weight savings without the added frame. They are especially great for short trips or when you don’t need to carry heavy loads, as they are best for lighter gear.
The lack of a frame can sometimes make carrying bulky or irregular items a bit uncomfortable, but for those who prioritize light and fast travel, this trade-off is worth it. Some frameless pack options also feature a removable frame for those moments when extra support is necessary, providing flexibility without compromising on weight. If you’re planning a hike or climbing pack trip and want to stay agile, this could be the right fit for you.
Ventilation
When it comes to ultralight hiking, frameless packs are favored by devotees who prioritize light and fast travel. These packs offer impressive weight savings, allowing you to move swiftly without the burden of a bulky frame. However, while they work well for fast hikes with minimal gear, carrying heavy loads can become uncomfortable. The absence of an internal frame means there’s less structure,
but some frameless pack options feature a removable frame for extra support when needed. The tension-mesh suspension system in certain designs provides a bit of flexibility, helping the pack ride comfortably on your body, but without the trampoline-like feel of more structured packs. For those looking to reduce pack weight but still need some support, this type of pack is a good choice.
Pack Access
When it comes to pack access, the way you open and organize your gear can make a huge difference on the trail. Top-loading packs are the standard for most hikers, where you store your gear by packing everything through the top opening. However, for those looking for easier access, panel access is a game-changer. This allows you to unzip a section of the main pack bag, offering a more efficient way to reach your gear without digging through the entire pack. Some designs also include bottom or sides openings, giving you additional flexibility to grab essentials without unloading everything.
For smart packers, these additional features save time and effort, especially when you need to grab overnight gear quickly. Whether you’re hiking throughout the day or just need quick access to smaller items, choosing the right access style can save you both ounces and dollars, depending on how often you need to reach inside your pack.
Pockets
Pockets are essential when evaluating a pack, as they help keep things organized and easily accessible. For hiking and outdoor activities, side pockets are great for items like a water bottle, tent poles, or loose objects. Elasticized or flat pockets provide flexibility for carrying small items like a phone, snacks, or lip balm, while hipbelt pockets are perfect for quick access to essentials.
Some packs have shovel pockets with flaps and buckle closures to securely carry gear like a snow shovel. The top lid pocket, also called the pack’s brain, can be used to stash items like a map, jacket, or sunglasses. For those looking to carry lightweight items, a single opening compartment may suit their preference. Many 3-season packs have multiple compartments to keep your gear organized and ready for any adventure.
Removable Daypack
Removable Daypack is a great addition to many packs. This designed feature allows the removal of the daypack from the main pack, giving you a lightweight backpack option for shorter trips or activities like camp hikes, summit bids, and supply runs. It often comes with a top lid and reservoir pocket, making it easy to carry essentials on the go. When you need to focus on a thru-hike or longer adventures, simply detach the daypack and use the main pack for your overnight pack needs. It converts into a hipbelt pack, offering flexibility and convenience for different types of trips.
Sleeping Bag Compartment
A sleeping bag compartment is a useful feature in many backpacks, especially for those who need to stay organized on the go. Much like choosing the Best Camera Bags for Travel, a good packbag is designed to hold bulky items while keeping everything accessible. This zippered section at the bottom lets you stash your sleeping bag or other gear separately, so you don’t have to unloading everything to get what you need.
With a dedicated space, it’s much easier to pull out your stuff sack and get some rest after a long day. This option also helps maximize room inside your pack, making packing and unpacking more convenient and efficient.
Padding
Padding plays an important role in ensuring your pack is comfortable for longer trips. For those who prefer a minimalistic design, a lightweight pack may offer less padding, but it can still be comfortable with well-placed support, like a lumbar pad or hipbelt.
These features help reduce pressure on your hips and lower back, preventing sore spots. Choosing a pack that’s properly sized and ensures the padding fits correctly will give you a cushier experience, especially around the shoulders.
Attachment Points
are essential features on the exterior of a backpack that allow you to attach important gear like trekking poles or an ice axe. These tool loops are especially useful when you need to carry equipment that doesn’t fit inside your pack. Though they may be rare on some packs, they are a great pair of attachment points that offer flexibility for travel or outdoor adventures. By using these loops, you can keep your pack organized and carry bulky items securely on the outside.
Daisy chain:
A daisy chain is a simple yet effective feature found on the outside of many backpacks. It consists of stitched webbing with multiple gear loops that allow you to securely attach items like a helmet, tools, or wet gear. This design helps you fit extra gear on the outside of your packbag, saving space in the main pack while keeping your essentials easily accessible. Whether you’re climbing, hiking, or just need more storage, the daisy chain offers a versatile solution for carrying gear that doesn’t fit inside your pack.
Reinforced crampon patch:
For those tackling rugged terrain, a reinforced crampon patch on your packbag can be a lifesaver. Made from burlier fabric, this feature prevents the sharp points of crampons from gouging and creating holes in your pack. Whether you’re climbing icy peaks or navigating rocky paths, having a reinforced section on your backpack ensures it holds up against tough conditions and lasts longer.
Extra gear loops:
When selecting a backpack for your trip, having extra gear loops can be a game changer. These loops are particularly useful for clipping on additional items that don’t fit inside the pack or for carrying bulky oversize gear like skis. Placing them lower on the hipbelt or pack helps balance the weight, making it easier to carry larger loads without them interfering with your body movement. Whether you’re organizing gear for a hike or simply need extra space, these loops can help keep your pack organized and your trip more comfortable.
Raincover
When preparing for a rain-prone trip, it’s important to consider how much water your pack can withstand. Many backpacks come with treated waterproof fabric, but even with this coating, water can still seep through the seams or zippers during a heavy downpour. While the exterior might shed some moisture, it’s the interiors that need the most protection, as items inside can get soaked. Using a waterproof cover or stuff sacks can prevent your gear from getting wet, reducing the risk of your pack absorbing any moisture, and keeping the weight down by avoiding soaked materials.
An alternative:
bundling gear internally in waterproof stuff sacks. Lightweight stuff sacks can be a better option in windy conditions because strong gusts can peel a cover right off a pack. (DIY version: Line the inside of your backpack with a plastic garbage bag.)
For a lightweight and cost-effective alternative to expensive packing solutions, consider bundling your gear inside waterproof stuff sacks or even a plastic garbage bag. This simple DIY version will protect your items from windy conditions and strong gusts that might cause your gear to get wet. Simply place everything inside your backpack, and line it with a garbage bag or stuff sack to keep the moisture away. This method helps ensure your gear stays dry even when exposed to wind or rain, without the need for expensive, specialized packing solutions.
Hydration Reservoir
Nearly all packs offer an internal sleeve that holds a hydration reservoir (almost always sold separately), plus one or two portals for the tube.
Backpack Fit
Getting the correctly sized backpack is crucial for comfort, especially during longer trips. To ensure your backpack fits well, it’s essential to consider both your torso length and hip circumference. Whether you are buying online or in person at stores like REI, sales specialists can help you find the right size by assisting with measurements. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to enlist a friend to help you measure your torso and hip. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer or use tools offered by outdoor retailers to guide you in finding the best fit. Once you have the measurements, choose a backpack based on your overall height and hip size for maximum comfort during your adventures.
Torso Length
When choosing the right backpack, torso length is one of the most important factors for comfort and support. Packs come in multiple sizes, often with adjustable features to fit a wide range of torso lengths. Different manufacturers may have varying specs for torso length, so it’s crucial to check the product details or size tab to ensure the pack is a good match.
Smaller or larger options are available, and some suspension systems are modified to offer better flexibility for various body types. Gender-specific options may also be offered, which can be an advantage for family members sharing a backpack. One drawback is that while some packs share features, the harness might add extra weight if it’s not the right size.
Waist Size
When selecting a backpack, waist size plays a crucial role in how well the pack fits and supports your body. The majority of the backpack’s weight should be carried by the hips, with hipbelts designed to accommodate a wide range of hip circumferences, usually from mid-20 inches to mid-40 inches. For those with smaller or narrow waists, it’s important to choose a size that fits snugly without being too tight, as this ensures optimal support. Many backpacks offer interchangeable straps, so you can swap them to better match your waist size, enhancing overall comfort. This customization allows the backpack to remain comfortable and stable during long trips, regardless of waist size.
Women-Specific Backpacks
Women-specific backpacks are designed to fit smaller frame and shorter torso dimensions, making them a perfect choice for backpackers with a shorter or narrower build. These packs work well for young adventurers and women who require a more comfortable fit than men’s packs can offer. They feature contoured shoulder straps and hipbelts that better accommodate wider hips and breasts, ensuring the load is carried comfortably. These backpacks are designed to distribute weight evenly, providing enhanced stability and support, making longer trips more manageable.
Youth-Specific Backpacks
Finding the perfect backpack for young backpackers requires balancing sizes, capacities, and comfort. Just like the best photography backpacks are designed for different users, youth-specific backpacks come in versions tailored for men’s, women’s, and child’s needs. These backpacks often include adjustable straps and suspension systems to accommodate growing bodies, ensuring a comfortable fit as their needs keep changing.
A strong frame helps support the load while keeping the weight evenly distributed, making them useful for both everyday use and exciting adventures. Over time, a good backpack adjusts to different carrying styles, promoting growth in durability and function, allowing kids and teens to carry their essentials with ease.
Additional Backpack Fit Adjustments
Load-lifter straps:
Load-lifter straps are attached to the top of the pack and stitched into the frame. These straps cinch the load, bringing the weight closer to your body, which helps carry the load more comfortably. When properly adjusted, they help maintain a snug fit and shift the weight towards your lumbar, reducing strain on your shoulders. The 45-degree angle of the straps ideally forms a comfortable and balanced position, making long hikes easier to handle while wearing the pack.
Sternum strap:
A strap that crosses the chest to connect both shoulder straps can boost stability, making it especially useful when traveling across uneven cross-country terrain. Without it, your backpack can move and shift abruptly, which may throw you off balance on rocky paths or steep climbs. This small feature prevents awkward weight distribution and ensures a more secure fit, keeping you steady during long hikes or unpredictable trails.
What does 32L mean in backpacks?
A 32L Travel Bag is a compact option for short trips. It doesn’t fit under airplane seats but is perfect for stowing in the overhead compartment. The bag fits within the max carry-on dimensions of most airlines, so you can carry it with you instead of checking it in.
Is a 70L backpack too big?
For trips lasting 5 days or more, packs of 70 liters or more are usually the preferred choice. These packs are ideal for winter treks, especially those lasting more than 1 night. Larger packs offer ample space to accommodate extra gear like clothing, a warmer sleeping bag, and a 4-season tent with extra poles for tougher conditions.
Do I need a 40l or 50L backpack?
It depends on how much gear you’re carrying. A 40L bag may be enough if you have mostly lightweight equipment, but you might need a bigger bag if you’re carrying more. If you already have all your stuff, like a tent, mats, sleeping bags, and cooking gear, you can measure it all and decide how big your bag needs to be based on that.
