How to Choose the Right Backpack for Outdoor Adventures

The right backpack can make the difference between a smooth trip and a frustrating one. It’s not just about capacity or looks; it’s about comfort, function, and matching the pack to the way you travel. Whether you’re heading out for a few hours or a multi-day trek, choosing the right pack starts with understanding your needs.

Know Your Activity

Different adventures require different types of packs. Start by identifying how you’ll use it most:

• Daypacks (10 - 25 L)
  Ideal for short hikes, cragging days, or even a multi-pitch. Enough room for layers, food, water, and essentials.

• Overnight & hut-to-hut treks (25 - 50 L)
  Best for one- to multiple night trips where you’ll carry a minimum amount like a sleeping bag, stove, food, and extra clothing, but don't need to bring extra shelter. 

• Multi-Day & Expedition Packs (50L +)
  For longer trekking trips with space for your tent, sleeping equipment, food and clothing, or when carrying extra gear like climbing equipment, gas canisters.

Choosing a pack that’s the right size for your typical trip will keep you from overpacking on short outings or struggling to fit essentials on longer ones.

Fit Comes First

No matter the size, a pack needs to fit your body well. A poor fit leads to sore shoulders, back pain, unnecessary fatigue or sometimes even injury.

• Torso Length:
  Measure your torso (base of the neck to top of the hip bones) and choose a pack that matches. Most brands offer different torso sizes.

• Hip Belt:
  A proper hip belt should rest on top of your hip bones and carry most of the weight. Shoulders should support only a fraction.

• Shoulder Straps & Adjustment:
  Look for padded, contoured straps that don’t dig in, and check for load-lifter straps (those angled straps near the top) for fine-tuning.

Many outdoor stores can help measure you and adjust the pack on the spot, a worthwhile step before buying.

Consider Features You’ll Actually Use

Modern backpacks come with all kinds of extras, but not all are necessary. Focus on features that fit your style:

• External pockets: Quick access for snacks, maps, or layers.

• Attachment points: Loops or daisy chains for trekking poles, ice axes, or helmets.

• Ventilation: Suspended mesh backs improve airflow on hot days, good for cooling but bad for stability!

• Removable lids or hip belts: Useful for versatility when weight matters.

Match the Pack to Your Load

A well-designed pack should carry your typical gear comfortably. If you’re often hauling ropes, climbing hardware, or winter layers, look for reinforced areas and sturdy suspension. For lighter loads, a light design is often better than overbuilt frames.

As a general rule:

• Heavier loads; need a rigid frame, supportive hip belt, and structured back panel.

• Lighter loads; can use frameless or semi-frameless packs for weight savings and flexibility.

Test Before You Commit

If possible, try the pack fully loaded before buying. Walk around the store, adjust straps, bend over, climb a few stairs. A few minutes of testing can reveal pressure points or fit issues that might ruin a trip later on.

A good rule of thumb is; Don't bring more than what you actually need, but make sure you have a comfortable night's rest so you can tackle the next day's adventure!