Trekking Backpack: How to Choose It and How to Pack It
The backpack has always been a fundamental part of any nature lover’s gear. In the 1980s, the backpack replaced the traditional school bag and quickly became a daily-use item, but for hikers, it remains one of the most iconic essentials. However, not all backpacks are the same, and it’s not always true that a single backpack suits every hike. Let’s explore its features to help you choose the right backpack for every use.
How to choose a trekking backpack
When purchasing a backpack, it’s important to mentally organize what it needs to carry, dividing items by use.
If, for example, you’re passionate about birdwatching, make sure your backpack has a spacious, easily accessible pocket for your binoculars. If you mainly use it for winter outings, check that it allows you to attach snowshoes comfortably to the outside.
Most backpacks are designed with the following structure:
• a set of internal and external pockets
• a series of straps
• some side hooks useful for carrying accessories like poles or crampons
One essential feature is the rain cover, usually found in a dedicated pocket at the bottom of the backpack. This accessory, now indispensable, can be very useful in light, unexpected rain, though it never covers the back panel. In case of heavy rain, it’s still advisable to protect your backpack with the timeless and classic poncho.
How many liters for a trekking backpack?
The first thing to know when buying a backpack is that its size is measured in liters. There’s no such thing as a small, medium, or large backpack—only one that holds 30, 40, or 80 liters. Here's a breakdown of capacities by typical usage:
- under 35 liters – ideal for daily use in the city or for short day hikes
- 35 to 45 liters – medium-sized backpacks, suitable for overnight hut stays
- 50 to 80 liters – designed for multi-day hikes
You can also find expandable backpacks on the market (e.g., 35+10 liters). When zipped up, they’re compact and ideal for lighter loads. When fully extended, they offer increased volume and capacity. These models are popular among occasional hikers, though seasoned trekkers tend to avoid them due to reduced stability.
How a backpack is made
Straps, pockets, back panels: understanding their specific functions is very helpful when choosing the right backpack. We can make a general classification of the main components:
- straps
- compartments and pocket systems
- frame and back support structure
Much more than just straps.
Straps are commonly referred to in a generic way, but in reality, these tough nylon fabric bands—highly resistant to tension—are designed to connect the various parts of a backpack. They are given different names depending on their specific function.
Stabilization straps: These are arguably the most important straps. Positioned above the shoulder straps, once adjusted, their main function is to stabilize the backpack, keeping it upright and close to the back. They can be found on all backpacks, but are especially important on larger models, where properly balancing the load and adjusting pressure—tightening them when going uphill and loosening on descents—is essential for maintaining balance and proper center of gravity.
Compression straps: Usually located on the sides of the backpack, though not present on all models. Their main function is to compress the load and prevent it from shifting during the hike, which could cause instability or even danger.
Chest strap and hip belt: Unlike other straps, these fasten in the front and help keep the backpack snug against the body, preventing it from shifting outward. The chest strap, which fastens high up, often includes an emergency whistle built into the buckle. The hip belt anchors the backpack to your waist, aiding in proper weight distribution. It may feature one or two side pockets—very handy for frequently used small items (like tissues)—and a padded lumbar support to help relieve weight pressure when properly positioned.
Gear attachment straps: These vary from model to model and are usually found on the exterior of the backpack. They’re designed to hold trekking poles, ice axes, snowshoes, microspikes, and other gear that might damage the interior if stored inside. All are length-adjustable with sliders and equipped with hook or snap buckles.
Buckles and adjusters: Every strap ends with a sturdy plastic buckle for fastening, and one or more adjusters that allow you to tighten or loosen the strap for the right fit. Webbing loops are often used to secure any excess strap. Some backpacks also feature an external elastic cord designed to carry bulky gear like a climbing helmet or sleeping pad.
Compartments and pocket system
When purchasing a backpack, carefully check how the internal space is distributed. Backpacks with the same volume can have very different internal layouts. When the volume is significant, it's essential that the main compartment is divided into several sections and that each section can be accessed from the outside via a zipper—this way, you won't have to empty the entire backpack every time you need something stored at the bottom. A good backpack might include a set of pockets such as:
- side pockets
- front pockets
- internal and external hood pockets
- pocket for the hydration bladder
Side pockets: These may be open or zippered, and are essential for carrying a water bottle or small items that need to be easily reached without removing the backpack.
Front pockets: Made of fabric or mesh, these are useful for storing clothes removed during the hike without having to open the backpack.
Internal and external hood pockets: The hood, which covers the top of the backpack, usually has two zippered pockets—an external one, ideal for storing maps, a compass, or similar items, and an internal one, perfect for documents, wallet, and anything valuable that needs more protection and isn’t frequently accessed.
Hydration bladder pocket: This is usually located in the outermost section of the backpack and allows you to insert a drinking straw through a loop, so you can stay hydrated on the move.
Frame and back panel
The back panel—the part resting against your back—is divided into two parts:
- the frame
- the padded back
The frame is a plate made of hard plastic or metal (usually aluminum to reduce weight) that provides a rigid support structure. It also helps distance the backpack from the back, ensuring proper airflow. Unlike the padded back—always present—the frame is typically a feature of larger-volume backpacks.
Now you have all the information you need to choose one or more backpacks that best suit your hiking adventures and outdoor activities.
