Before you buy your first backpack, you should know how much gear you’ll be able to carry and how much weight you’ll handle. The general rule of thumb is to buy a backpack one to two sizes larger than you think you need. You can always return it and buy a different size if you find you don’t like it.
But, if you buy the right size, you’ll be able to carry everything you need for your backpacking trips comfortably. The weight you can comfortably lift will also vary based on your fitness, so check that box before purchasing. About this question, what size backpacking pack do I need? Here’s a rundown of the different backpack sizes and what each one is good for.
Make sure that your backpack is the right size before you buy it
This one is pretty important. Before you run out and buy a backpack, make sure that you check the bag’s dimensions to make sure it will fit everything you need to bring.
If you’re buying online, read the dimensions listed on the product page, so you don’t accidentally buy a giant backpack.
If you’re in a store, bring a friend along to check the size of the pack and make sure it will fit in the back of the car.
Here are two reasons why picking the right size backpack is essential.
- First, it will give you the suitable space to carry the items you need for your trip.
- Second, it will help you stay organized when you’re on the trail.
- If you’re carrying around too much gear, it can be challenging to stay organized, so a smaller backpack will give you more space to stuff everything in.
Large backpack for long treks
If you’re planning on doing any severe backpacking, you’ll want a backpack that can comfortably carry your gear for several days.
The large size is the most common size for this, and it’s what we recommend for most people. It can comfortably hold a week’s worth of stuff if you pack light.
The large backpack is also big enough to carry a few overnight trips. If you’re tall, you might even be able to go a week without removing any clothing layers.
Extra-large backpack for group camping
What size backpacking pack do I need is a question that one should ask themselves when purchasing an extra-large backpack. Group camping can get loud and messy, and you don’t want to be wearing all your nice clothes when you get there—staying clean while camping can be a problem so that a wet-weather backpack will come in handy.
It can hold up to a week’s worth of clothes and supplies, and it’s big enough to stand up in so everyone can get a good look at it.
Again, the extra-large is suitable for groups or families planning on doing a lot of camping.
X-Large backpack for occasional backpacking
If you’re looking for a backpack that can handle one or two long backpacking trips, the X-large size is the largest model Hoegaarden carries.
It’s suitable for occasional use, but it’s not something you’d want to take on a severe backwoods adventure. The extra-large and large backpacks are designed for that.
2-pound daypack for short day hikes
If you’re only planning on doing a few short day hikes in a day or two, a smaller backpack might be better. The 2-pound daypack is a good choice for this. It’s large enough to hold a few days’ worth’s of supplies, but it won’t weigh you down too much.
1-pound daypack for quick trips
If you want to be able to go on short day hikes or go cycling on overnight trips, but you don’t want to carry a heavy backpack, a small daypack is a good option. The 1-pound daypack is the most petite backpack Hoegaarden sells, and it’s suitable for impromptu getaways. Just be careful to keep it dry.
2-pound daypack for long day hikes
If you’re planning on doing any severe backpacking, you’ll want a backpack that can comfortably carry your gear for several days.
The large size is the most common size for this, and it’s what we recommend for most people. It can comfortably hold a week’s worth of stuff if you pack light.
The large backpack is also big enough to carry a few overnight trips. If you’re tall, you might even be able to go a week without removing any clothing layers.
Ultralight backpack for very light loads
If you’re only going to be carrying very light loads, a lightweight backpack is for you. The ultralight model weighs just one pound, so you can have it on long day hikes without worrying about its weight. It’s also suitable for traveling.
Depending on your intended uses, you may not need a backpack specifically designed for backpacking.
You can use a regular backpack for hiking and a cross-strap daypack for day hikes.
There are also lightweight hiking shoes and hiking sandals you can use. The best backpack will depend on your intended use.
What to Look for When Buying a Backpacking Pack
What size backpacking pack do I need: Backpacks are pretty simple tech, but there are some things you’ll want to look for when buying one.
Here are some things to keep in mind.
External Frame vs. Internal Frame
When you’re buying a backpack, you’ll have to decide between an external or internal frame. An outer edge uses straps to connect the pack to your body, and an inner structure uses a suspension system that consists of straps and a padded harness.
External-frame packs are lighter, but they tend to be less durable.
They are also more prone to damage because they rely on straps and buckles to connect the bag to your body.
Internal-frame backpacks tend to be heavier and more durable, but they don’t bounce and wiggle around as much as an external-frame bag.
Both types of bags will hold up well to years of use.
Pack Weight Rating
The weight rating is the maximum weight of a load the bag can hold. You’ll usually find this rating on the product’s description page, but sometimes it’s not very clear.
If you’re not sure whether to get a light or heavy-duty backpack, we recommend a middle-of-the-road option. It will be suitable for everything from day trips to extended backpacking trips.
Capacity
The capacity of a backpack is how much gear you can stuff inside it. The more volume there is in cubic feet, the larger the capacity.
The volume you’ll want in your pack will depend on your intended uses. If you’re going on a day hike, you don’t need as much importance as an extended backpacking trip.
What Type of Straps Do You Need?
What size backpacking pack do I need goes along with the type of straps one should need.
The straps on your backpack will determine how comfortable it is to wear and how well it carries your load.
Rucksacks come with a unique padded shoulder strap. This is designed to give your backpack extra comfort on your back, so you can carry heavy loads for more extended periods without getting sore.
Backpacks with waist straps allow you to put the bag’s weight on your hips instead of your shoulders.
This can reduce the chance of becoming fatigued from carrying the pack for long periods.
Conclusion
No matter which type of backpack you go with, be sure to consider what you will be using it for. The best groups are the ones that meet your specific needs, not the ones that look best on paper.
