The kind of backpack you bring will make a huge impact on your outdoor trips. Whether you prefer car camping, tent camping or plenty of hiking, the most important thing to remember is to choose a backpack that will fit your personal needs.
There are 3 main things to consider when choosing a backpack for camping and hiking – the capacity, the fit and the features.
Consider these factors when choosing the best backpack for camping and hiking:
Capacity
This pertains to the size of your pack, depending on how much you plan to carry and how long your trip is going to be. There are various types of camping or hiking backpacks, each designed for a different length of trip.
There’s the Weekend Backpack which is typically good for short trips (1-3 nights) and for those who pack light. These can carry 30 to 50 liters. If you’re not a light packer or your trip goes beyond a couple of days, you can opt for the Multi-Day Pack, good for up to 5 days and can carry up to 80 liters. This is a good choice for warm weather camping.
Lastly, there’s the Extended-Trip Backpack which carries 70 liters or more and is ideal for trips that last more than 5 nights. A great choice for winter treks or families that camp/hike together.
Fit
To make sure that you are carrying the weight on your back comfortably, you should get a backpack that fits your body perfectly. Look for one that’s appropriate for your torso length and has a snug grip on your hips. So when at the store, be sure that you have an idea what your torso length is and your waist size.
Features
Different models of outdoor packs offer different features. Make sure you choose one with features that you would find useful and would personally use. Some common useful features to look into include ventilation, the number of pockets, padding and attachment points. Some camping or hiking backpacks even offer cool features like a removable top lid, a sleeping bag compartment, a rain cover and a water reservoir.
To ensure that you’re comfortable on the trail or while camping carrying all the gear you need, choosing a good outdoor backpack is paramount. You should be able to feel comfortable o matter how long your trip is. Here’s how to choose the best backpack for your camping and hiking trips!