How to Choose a Hiking Backpack
Choosing a hiking pack is an exciting decision that should involve a lot of forethought. There are so many pack styles and sizes to choose from—which can be both exciting and overwhelming. Don’t fear! This post will provide all the information you need to confidently choose a hiking pack that fits your needs so you have the best possible hiking experience!
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What kind of hiker are you?
Not every hike requires the same kind of equipment, which is why it’s important to know what kind of hiking you’re interested in or already doing. Do you tend to enjoy trail walking, 1-5 mile hikes, 5-10 mile hikes, or overnight hikes? Maybe you enjoy them all and will need several packs. Either way, once you’ve decided what kind or kinds of hiking you’re interested in, you can start learning about pack capacity, features, and sizing.
I’d also like to add that being interested in all types of hiking is great! Just be aware that this may require the use of more than one hiking pack. I have three packs, and they’re all used for different purposes. But I didn’t acquire them all at once. Once you start hiking regularly, you’ll gain so much insight and experience that will SO valuable when it comes to adding more packs to your collection. Don’t rush this part of the process. Also— don’t be afraid to ask other people you meet on the trail about their pack.
All of that being said, I would recommend choosing one pack, trying it out for a while, and then acquiring more once you have more experience and what kind of hiking you enjoy.
Pack capacity
I think it’s important to share that the capacity of hiking packs is measured in volume. This is because hikers are most interested in one thing— how much “stuff” their pack can hold. Therefore, somewhere along the line, a decision was made to measure them by volume (typically in Liters).
For hiking less than 5 hours, I would recommend using a pack that is around 20 liters or less, which will allow for comfortable, faster hiking because your pack won’t be weighing you down. For full-day hiking, aim for a pack that can hold 20-39 liters. And for 1-3 days of hiking, anywhere from 40-56 liters of packing volume should be adequate. All of this, of course, depends on what kind of gear you are using (ex: lightweight gear takes up less space and heavy/thick gear takes up more space) and how much you’re bringing with you. For more information on what to bring hiking, read my other posts on Maine day hiking essentials and Maine backpacking essentials.
Pack features
Now that you know approximately what size pack you should be on the hunt for, it’s time to hone in on my favorite part—the hiking pack features. There are SO many cool pack features nowadays and just when I think i’ve seen it all, they add a new feature that I love.
Because I have years of hiking experience, i’m going to share what some of my favorite pack features are and why I love them so much. Keep an eye out for them when you’re shopping for your next pack!
Suspended mesh back panel: this is a GAME CHANGER, especially if you hike in warm weather. It provides breathability and ventilation for your backside, which keeps you cool on those hot, humid days. It also contours to the body so you get a great fit and feel comfortable. It also helps disperse the weight of your pack.
Adjustable torso harness: this is more important when using large hiking packs on long, multi-day hikes. It allows you to adjust the pack to fit your torso length.
Stretchy/mesh side pockets: these are great for storing water bottles when you’re day hiking and don’t have enough room in your pack for a 2 or 3 liter water bladder.
Rain cover: it kind of goes without saying that this is an awesome thing to have. Some packs have them built into them so you can just pull them out at a moments notice when a summer thunderstorm hits.
Hip belt pockets: these are SO nice for storing snacks, a cell phone, etc. They come in extra handy on longer hikes when you want certain things within reach so you don’t have to waste time stopping, taking your pack off, and digging through your bag for something.
Trekking pole attachment: I find that I use this most on longer hikes or on backpacking trips. It’s definitely a life saver then, but not necessary for day hikes.
My favorite packs
Disclosure: All of my pack recommendations will be for Osprey brand packs, as those are the only brand I have ever personally used. I only recommend products that I have personally tested and find to be high quality.
Short day hikes (under 5 miles)
For hikes less than 5 miles, I would recommend using a pack between 10 and 20 liters, which will allow for comfortable, faster hiking because your pack won’t be weighing you down. Your pack should have enough room to hold a first aid kit, water bladder or water bottles, an extra layer, snack or lunch, and any other navigation/safety tools you carry. If you’re not sure what to pack for a day hike, click here to learn about Maine day hiking essentials.
Recommended packs:
Unisex: Osprey Hikelite 18L
Male build: Osprey Talon 22L
Long day hikes (over 5 miles)
For hikes over 5 miles, I would recommend using a pack around right around 30 liters, because you’ll need more space for extra food, water, and layers.
Recommended packs:
Unisex: Osprey Sportlite 30L
Male build: Osprey Talon 30L
Female build: Osprey Tempest 30L
Overnight hiking/backpacking:
For overnight hiking trips (commonly referred to as “backpacking”) you’ll want a pack around 50L or so that is able to hold clothes, water, food, first aid supplies, a tent, bed pad, sleeping bag, a cooking stove, etc. If you’re new to backpacking, read my Maine Backpacking Essentials post to ensure you have everything you need to safely spend a night or two in the woods.
Recommended packs:
Men build: Osprey Talon 44L
Female build: Aura AG 50
If after reading this post, you’re still struggling to pick a hiking pack, I would strongly suggest going to the Osprey website and using their packfinder tool. You’ll answer a series of questions about pack usage, fit, pack features, etc. and the tool will give you three pack options that best suit your needs. The tool is helpful and easy-to-use, making it the perfect place to start your pack buying journey!
Whichever pack you choose, know that you are in for a lifetime of new, amazing memories of spending time in the woods. Don’t forget to stay safe, respect wildlife, and always follow LNT (leave no trace) principles when exploring outdoor spaces.
Happy Hiking!
MyMaine
