Hiking backpacks

How to choose the right hiking backpack?

A backpack is an essential accessory for hiking. When choosing one, it's crucial to consider multiple criteria. First, your body type and physical condition. Indeed, gender, size, and physical condition influence the choice of the pack. Moreover, the volume, i.e., the storage capacity of the backpack, must be adapted to the duration of the hike and the equipment to be carried. The larger the capacity, the more items you can carry. Then, the weight of the pack is a criterion not to be overlooked. Finally, the comfort of the pack is essential for a pleasant hiking experience. By choosing a pack suited to your needs, you improve your comfort during your outings and are better protected during your hikes.

Glisshop offers a wide range of backpacks from small pack for day hikes to fully-featured rucksacks with a wide hip belt for carrying comfort and enough space to store all your belongings and backpacking equipment.

Hiking backpacks for men, women, and kids

Among the different models available on our website and in our store, you will find packs for men, women, and children. Some brands offer models specifically designed for the female body type. This is the case with Deuter, whose models are recognisable by the small yellow flower attached to the front of the pack. The brand takes into account that women are generally smaller than men and offers back panels and straps lengths that are adapted.

Choosing the right hiking backpack capacity

The capacity of your backpack depends on the duration of your hike, as well as the season and equipment to be carried.

A 15-20L backpack for day trips

For a day hike, a 15 to 20-liter backpack is generally enough. It allows you to carry the essentials without weighing you down unnecessarily. For optimal comfort, it is recommended to choose a lightweight and robust pack, with padded straps and back panel. Models with a hip belt are also preferable for better weight distribution. Think about how you plan to use your pack: if you intend to use your pack for other activities in addition to hiking, opt for a versatile model.

30L to carry a bit more equipment

If you are planning a day hike with a bit more equipment, a 30L backpack is a wise choice. This additional volume can accommodate items like a picnic blanket, camping stove, or photography equipment. These 30L packs often come with several compartments to store and easily access your gear. Make sure that the pack has a good load distribution for comfortable carrying. Adjustments like padded straps and hip belt can also increase comfort.

For a multi-day hike, a 35-40L backpack is required

For multi-day hikes, a 35 to 40-liter backpack is usually the best option. It offers enough space to hold all the required hiking gear, without being too bulky. You can carry your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and camping gear. These packs are designed to offer optimal carrying comfort, even when you carry a heavier load over long distances. When looking for a suitable pack, consider your specific hiking needs. For example, if you plan to hike in the mountains or during winter, you might need a pack with more specific features, such as attachment points and daisy chains for your hiking boots or mountaineering gear.

50L, 60L, 70L, or even 80L, hiking backpacks made for long treks

For long treks, 50L, 60L, 70L, or 80L hiking backpacks are ideal. These rucksacks offer sufficient volume to carry everything required for multiple days of walking, including camping equipment, spare clothing, and food.

• A 50L pack is often the choice of hikers who wish to minimise their load while having enough space for the essentials. It is particularly suitable for routes with nights in refuges or lightweight trekking.
• A 60L pack offers more space and is ideal for longer adventures. It can accommodate more equipment and personal items, making it perfect for long backpacking trips.
• 70L and 80L packs are perfect for very long trips. They offer an impressive capacity that allows you to carry everything required for a long, self-supported hike.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and carrying comfort. Features such as the weight of the pack, the back system (foam or other), the number of pockets, and the back panel length are criteria to consider.

What accessories for my hiking backpack?

Compatibility with a hydration system like water bladder is a very useful feature. Being able to stay hydrated without needing to open your pack is a real plus. For comfort, a hip belt and chest strap will reduce any potential back pain. As for the rest, it all depends on your needs. Indeed, a backpack with accessories adapted to your activity will undoubtedly be more practical than an ordinary pack with a single compartment. Ski, helmet, snowboard, ice axe, or pole carriers free up your hands as well as space in your pack.

A wide choice among many brands

Various renowned brands are featured in our selection of hiking backpacks. Among them, we can mention Osprey, Deuter, or even Millet. They are known for the quality of their products and attention to detail. Each brand offers a variety of models with different specfifications, allowing you to choose the pack best suited to your needs and hiking style.