Guide to Choosing a Camping and Hiking Backpack

Guide to Choosing a Camping and Hiking Backpack

If you haven’t yet determined the most suitable hiking pack for yourself, don’t try to pick a backpack and then fill it with gear. Instead, prepare your gear according to your trip plan first, and then choose a backpack that fits your equipment needs.

1. Trip Duration

The first factor to consider is the duration of your trip. Whether your hike involves an overnight stay will directly determine whether you need a backpack with more than 35 liters of capacity.

The trip length is a key factor in deciding backpack size. Are you preparing for a multi-month thru-hike, a weekend mountain trek with friends, or a hike that includes overnight camping?

For a short, single-day hike without camping, you’ll only need to carry a water bottle, simple food, and light clothing. In this case, a backpack of around 20 liters will suffice.

For a 2-3 day hiking and camping trip, you’ll need to bring a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, cooking gear, food, warm clothing, etc. A backpack in the range of 35-60 liters is recommended.

For longer hikes or expeditions that require carrying a tent, more food, and extra insulating layers, you’ll need a larger-capacity backpack.

Refer to the table below for suggested sizes. If you want to streamline or fine-tune your hiking or camping setup, simply choose the backpack volume according to your specific needs.

Journey Duration	Backpack Capacity (L)
One day or overnight (1-2 nights)	20-50
Weekend (2-3 nights)	50-60
Multi-day (2-5 nights)	60-80
Long trip (5+ nights)	80 and above

Traditional Backpack Size Guide Based on Trip Duration

Backpacks for Outdoor Travel

2. Carrying System

Common backpack frame designs for hiking can be categorized into three types:

External Frame Backpack:

In this design, the contents of the backpack are secured to a ladder-like external frame. The tightened straps lift the pack away from the body, which can make the backpack sway and cause a loss of balance. These are typically used by experienced hikers. The advantage of aluminum-framed backpacks is that they can carry heavier loads.

Internal Frame Backpack:

This type features a sturdy internal frame that helps the backpack maintain its shape while fitting closely to the back. It usually has detachable side straps and built-in aluminum stays or plastic sheets for structure. The resulting slim, elongated shape makes it easier to pass through dense vegetation or haul the backpack up rock faces.

Frameless Backpack:

The most lightweight design, with no rigid support structure. It is ideal for carrying lighter gear such as clothing and offers greater flexibility. However, it provides less comfort and support, making it better suited for short hikes.

In addition to the type of frame, the following back panel features can enhance carrying comfort:

Breathable Mesh: Helps reduce sweat buildup and minimizes discomfort caused by prolonged heat and humidity against the skin.

Grooved or Ventilated Channels: 3D structures on the back panel promote airflow.

Hip Belt and Shoulder Straps: Thick, adjustable hip belts help shift weight off the shoulders and onto the pelvis. Adjustable shoulder straps reduce overall strain.

3. Size

The ideal backpack size varies depending on individual needs and body types. Choosing the correct size is crucial for both comfort and functionality. An ill-fitting backpack can lead to uneven weight distribution, making hiking and movement difficult and even painful.

When a fully loaded backpack is worn, the body naturally leans slightly forward to compensate for the weight. Therefore, a well-fitting hip belt greatly contributes to overall comfort. Make sure your backpack matches your torso length, and if you need a hip belt, be sure to choose one that fits properly.

Torso Length	Length of The Backpack
XS  36-41cm S   41-46cm	Female	XS/S  |33-43cm S/M  |41-51cm
M  46-51cm L   51-56cm	Male	S/M  |38-48cm M/L  |46-56cm

When purchasing a backpack, some manufacturers offer different sizes to accommodate various torso lengths. The standard method for measuring your torso length is as follows:

First, locate the top edge of your hip bones. Then, trace them around to the center of your lower back (this should be between your waist and the top of your buttocks) to find the iliac crest. From there, measure the vertical distance from the iliac crest up to the prominent bone at the base of your neck (the C7 vertebra).

Torso Length Measurement Diagram

4. Fabric
Nylon is heavier than polyester but has better abrasion resistance, making it more suitable for short trips or environments where the backpack may experience frequent friction. On the other hand, polyester's resistance to acids and alkalis makes it better suited for harsh outdoor conditions.

Therefore, if you need a general-purpose backpack and your trips are usually of similar duration, I recommend 600D polyester, which offers the best balance between cost-effectiveness and fabric performance.

Of course, if you're heading into the wilderness, you should choose the most suitable fabric based on the specific environmental conditions.

A previous article explains the differences between nylon and polyester in detail.

Close-up Image of Backpack Material

5. Features

Pockets/Compartments: Multiple compartments help organize gear effectively.

Water Resistance: Includes a rain cover or uses waterproof materials directly.

External Attachment Options: For carrying hiking poles, sleeping pads, axes, and other equipment.

Use of Long-Distance Outdoor Hiking Backpacks

Choosing the right camping and hiking backpack is not only an investment in your gear but also a guarantee for a better travel experience. From capacity and materials to the carrying system, every detail deserves your careful consideration. If you are planning a camping or hiking trip, now is the perfect time to upgrade your equipment. Don’t let an ill-fitting backpack affect your love for the great outdoors.

 

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