Guide to Hiking Backpacks

Hiking backpacks are designed for heavy loads, ranging from 20 to 60 pounds, and large volumes of 800 to 8,000 cubic inches. Often taller than other backpacks, hiking backpacks are usually divided into compartments for easier organization and to separate certain items, such as clothing from food. Most models also have side and front pockets for storing smaller items such as wallets and cards.

Most hiking backpacks are supported by internal or external frames made of rigid tubing, although some lightweight models are frameless. They also come with lumbar pads, large pieces of foam sewn onto the back to provide comfort while on the trail. Many also have hydration packs and holes to fit drinking tubes, allowing the user to drink without digging into the pack.

Waist packs

Waist packs are worn around the waist instead of over the back, usually consisting of a small pouch attached to a belt. The weight is distributed around the waist to keep from straining the body while carrying. Most wait packs have side pockets for holding drinking bottles. They can carry loads of up to ten liters.]

Hydration packs

Hydration packs are designed to provide easy access to drinking facilities. The backpack is usually built around a water bladder with a drinking tube extending from it. Some models consist purely of the water bladder, while others have side pockets and other compartments.

Day packs

Day packs are relatively small and are designed for daytime hikes. They are supported entirely by shoulder straps with no hip belts, although some models also have chest straps to keep the shoulders straight. They have capacities of 15 to 35 liters.

Midsize packs

Midsize packs have much higher capacities and less volume and weight. They are ideal for multi-day hikes without much cargo volume. They are also great for recreational hiking, with facilities for carrying additional items like books and cameras. They can carry loads from 35 to 70 liters.

Expedition backpacks

Expedition backpacks are full-sized packs designed for long hikes spanning several weeks. They have a capacity of 60 liters or higher. They usually come with broad hip belts to distribute the weight more evenly around the body, and a large lumbar pad to keep the back comfortable.

Comfort: Choose a hiking backpack that feels comfortable on your body. Look for one that is adequately padded, especially on the parts that exert the most stress, such as the shoulder straps and lower back. The shoulder straps should be wide and soft to protect the shoulders from strain, and the lumbar pad should curve properly over the back.

Accessibility: Make sure your hiking backpack allows easy access to important items like water bottles and first aid kits. Look for one with easy to reach top compartments or side pockets where you can keep the things you will need frequently throughout the hike. The pockets should open easily with snap-on or Velcro closures.

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Hiking Vacations and Gear