How to Choose a Hiking Backpack: An Expert Guide

Selecting the right hiking backpack is one of the most important decisions you’ll make before hitting the trails. The right backpack ensures you’re comfortable, your gear is well-organized, and your experience is enjoyable. But choosing the perfect hiking backpack can be overwhelming with so many types, sizes, and features available.

Choosing a hiking backpack involves considering factors such as size, weight, fit, and the features that best suit your hiking style. Whether you’re a weekend hiker or an avid backpacker, the right backpack can make your outdoor adventure more enjoyable and comfortable.

So, let’s break down everything you need to know to choose the right hiking backpack for your needs.

What Size Hiking Backpack Do You Need?

The size of your hiking backpack is one of the first things to consider when choosing the right one. The size determines how much gear you can carry and affects the comfort and weight distribution.

What size hiking backpack is best for a day hike vs a multi-day hike?

If you’re heading out for a day hike, you don’t need a large backpack, but for extended hikes, you’ll need more space to carry essentials like a sleeping bag, food, and extra clothes.

1. Daypacks (15-30 liters):

For day hikes, a small daypack is usually enough. These backpacks can fit your essentials—water, snacks, a jacket, and a camera—without weighing you down. Daypacks are ideal for hikes that last just a few hours or a single day.

• Best For: Hiking on well-defined trails, light day trips.
• Capacity: 15-30 liters
• Key Features: Compact, lightweight, minimal compartments.

2. Overnight Backpacks (30-50 liters):

These packs offer more space for an overnight trip, including room for a small tent, sleeping bag, and food for the night. They strike a good balance between comfort and capacity without being too bulky.

• Best For: Weekend trips, one-night camping.
• Capacity: 30-50 liters
• Key Features: Extra compartments for food, water, and a small tent.

3. Multi-Day Backpacks (50-70 liters):

For longer trips, you’ll need a larger backpack to carry all your gear for several days. These backpacks provide plenty of space for larger tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and extra clothing. The suspension system is also designed to distribute weight evenly to reduce fatigue.

• Best For: Extended backpacking trips.
• Capacity: 50-70 liters
• Key Features: Hydration reservoirs, advanced suspension systems, multiple compartments.

What Are the 2 Types of Backpacks in Hiking?

When it comes to hiking backpacks, there are two primary types: internal frame and external frame. Each type offers distinct benefits and is suited for different kinds of hiking.

What are the disadvantages of internal frame packs?

While internal frame backpacks are more common for modern hiking, they can sometimes lack breathability and storage flexibility due to their compact, rigid design.

1. Internal Frame Backpacks:

Internal frame backpacks are designed to sit close to your body, which makes them ideal for agility on rough, uneven terrain. They tend to be lighter and more compact, so they are great for faster-paced hikers who don’t want to be weighed down by bulk. The internal frame helps distribute the weight better, reducing stress on your back and shoulders.

• Best For: Speedy hikes, technical terrain, lightweight multi-day hikes.
• Key Features: Sleek design, excellent for agility.

2. External Frame Backpacks:

External frame backpacks have a frame that is visible outside of the pack. They are excellent for carrying heavy loads, as the frame allows for better weight distribution across your back and hips. The large, open design provides more ventilation, making them ideal for warmer climates. However, they can be bulkier and less agile than internal frame packs.

• Best For: Carrying heavy gear, long-term backpacking trips.
• Key Features: Better ventilation, more packing space.

What Features Should You Look for in a Hiking Backpack?

When selecting a hiking backpack, it’s essential to look at the features that ensure comfort, durability, and convenience. These features can make a huge difference in your overall hiking experience.

Which features are essential for comfort and convenience?

The most important features to look for include adjustable straps, adequate padding, hydration reservoirs, and compartments for organization.

1. Adjustable Straps and Hip Belts:

The best hiking backpacks offer adjustable shoulder straps, chest straps, and hip belts to ensure an even distribution of weight. The hip belt should sit comfortably on your hips to transfer the weight of the pack from your shoulders to your hips, making the pack more comfortable to carry.

• Best For: Comfort and weight distribution.
• Key Feature: Adjustable straps for a customized fit.

2. Hydration Reservoir Compatibility:

For long hikes, staying hydrated is crucial. Many hiking backpacks come with a sleeve for a hydration reservoir, which allows you to drink water without having to stop and open your pack. Some even come with a hose for easy sipping.

• Best For: Hydration during long hikes.
• Key Feature: Hydration reservoir sleeve and hose.

3. Ventilation:

Backpacks with mesh or breathable back panels are great for keeping air flowing between your back and the pack, preventing you from getting too hot and sweaty.

• Best For: Warm weather hiking.
• Key Feature: Breathable back panel to improve airflow.

What Is the Difference Between a Travel Backpack and a Hiking Backpack?

While both travel and hiking backpacks serve as storage for your belongings, they are designed with different purposes in mind. It’s important to choose the right one depending on whether you’re going on an outdoor adventure or a city trip.

What is the difference between a daypack and a backpack?

A daypack is a smaller, lighter pack used for day hikes, while a hiking backpack is designed for longer, more rugged trips with additional features for comfort and convenience.

1. Hiking Backpacks:

Hiking backpacks are designed for outdoor adventures and typically have more specialized features like hydration compatibility, multiple compartments, and a more durable design to handle rough conditions. They are built to support long hikes and provide extra comfort for carrying heavier loads.

• Best For: Hiking, backpacking, and outdoor adventures.
• Key Feature: Specialized compartments for outdoor gear and better weight distribution.

2. Travel Backpacks:

Travel backpacks, on the other hand, are designed for travel convenience. They are often more focused on organization, with multiple pockets for storing clothes, electronics, and other items. While some travel backpacks can handle light hikes, they typically don’t have the same durability or features as hiking-specific backpacks.

• Best For: Short-term travel, urban exploration.
• Key Feature: Versatility, comfortable for carrying clothes and electronics.

Which Material is Best for Hiking Backpacks?

The best material for a hiking backpack is high‑denier nylon—specifically 70D to 210D ripstop nylon—for its balance of lightweight durability, tear resistance, and water repellency. Polyester offers affordability and UV resistance but is heavier, while waterproof coatings add weather protection.

1. Nylon vs. Polyester: Durability Comparison

• Nylon (70D–210D): Best for ultralight to midweight packs (400–800 g). Ripstop weave prevents tears from spreading.
• Polyester (100D–600D): More UV stable—ideal for long sun exposure—but heavier (+15–25%) and slightly less tear‑resistant.

2. Denier and Ripstop: What They Mean

Denier (D): Fiber thickness; higher = more durable but heavier.

Ripstop: Reinforced weave (grid pattern) stops small tears from growing.

• 70D ripstop: Ultralight, suitable for daypacks.
• 210D ripstop: Balanced strength for multi‑day packs.
• 420D+ polyester: Budget choice for weekend hikers.

3. Weatherproofing and Coatings

• PU-coated nylon: Standard; water beads off but may soak under heavy rain.
• DWR finish: Easy maintenance; reapply annually.
• TPU laminate: Fully waterproof; premium for wet climates.

4. Weight vs. Durability Trade‑Off

• Ultralight hikers prioritize <500 g pack weight (70D nylon).
• Multi-day trekkers need 210D+ nylon for durability, tolerating a 150–250 g weight increase.

5. Sustainability Considerations

• Recycled nylon/polyester: Reduces waste; 10–20% lighter than virgin fabrics.
• Brands like Szoneier offer eco-friendly options with comparable performance.

For most hikers, 210D ripstop nylon with a PU+DWR finish delivers the optimal mix of strength, water resistance, and weight.

How to Ensure a Proper Fit for Your Hiking Backpack

A proper fit is critical for your comfort and safety on the trail. If your backpack isn’t properly fitted, you’ll experience unnecessary strain on your back, shoulders, and hips.

1. Adjusting the Straps:

The shoulder straps, chest straps, and hip belt should all be adjustable to suit your body. When trying on a backpack, make sure to adjust the straps to see how well they distribute the weight of the pack.

• Best For: Comfort, reducing strain.
• Key Feature: Adjustable straps for a personalized fit.

2. Testing the Fit:

Once your pack is loaded with weight, take it for a test walk. The pack should fit snugly against your body without causing any discomfort or rubbing. If the weight feels unbalanced, it’s a sign the straps or fit need adjustment.

• Best For: Ensuring the pack is stable during movement.
• Key Feature: Ability to adjust for comfort and stability.

What Is the Best Brand of Hiking Backpack?

The “best” brand depends on your hike length, budget, and feature needs. Osprey, Deuter, Gregory, and The North Face consistently top expert reviews for comfort, durability, and performance.

1. Osprey

– Adjustable torso length, Anti‑Gravity mesh harness for airflow

– Most versatile for weekend through thru‑hikes

2. Deuter

– Aircontact back system reduces sweat by 15% vs peers

– Sturdy design for rugged terrain

3. Gregory

– Custom Molded foam hipbelt for ultra comfort

– Load lifter straps optimize center‑of‑gravity

4. The North Face

– Ideal for budget-conscious hikers

– Balanced features with solid durability

Conclusion: How to Choose the Best Hiking Backpack for Your Needs

Choosing the right hiking backpack is essential for ensuring comfort and durability on the trail. Consider your hike’s length, terrain, and weather conditions when selecting a backpack, and make sure the pack fits comfortably. By focusing on size, fit, and essential features like ventilation and hydration compatibility, you can find the perfect backpack to enhance your hiking experience.

If you’re looking for a custom hiking backpack that suits your specific needs, Szoneier is here to help. We specialize in designing and manufacturing high-quality backpacks, offering a wide range of customizable options for your next adventure. Contact us today to inquire about custom backpacks tailored to your brand or personal preferences!