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Choosing the perfect backpack: find your ideal size

When it comes to choosing the best backpack, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution—literally or figuratively. To make the perfect pick, ask yourself two key questions:

  • What activities are you planning?

  • How long will you be adventuring for?

With these answers in mind, we can dive into the nitty-gritty details of backpack sizes and their pros and cons. So buckle up—your backpack journey starts here.

35L and smaller backpacks

For Hiking:

These little gems are perfect for day hikes. Lightweight and agile, they make tackling rugged terrain a breeze. You'll move like a mountain goat, with better mobility and balance to conquer challenging trails—so you can spend less time wobbling and more time soaking in the views.

For Travel:

Looking for a trusty sidekick for day trips? A compact, zipped day pack has your back. It keeps your valuables secure while carrying essentials like snacks, water, and extra layers. As a bonus, small backpacks are stellar carry-on options. Unlike bulky suitcases, they’ll save the stress of airline baggage limits. Travel hack: go small, save big.

35–50L backpacks

For Hiking:

Planning an overnight hike or embracing fastpacking for multi-day treks? A mid-sized hiking pack could be your sweet spot. But fair warning—you’ll need ultra-light gear to make this size work for extended journeys. Not sure everything will fit? Step it up to 50L+.

For Travel:

This size offers great flexibility for minimalist travellers. It forces you to stick to the essentials—a lesson in packing discipline that will serve you well. Keep it compact for beach escapes, but if you’re heading to snowy peaks with bulky gear, you might want to scale up.

50L+ backpacks

For Hiking:

Embarking on a multi-day hike? Say hello to your new best friend! A 50L+ backpack lets you carry everything you need to be self-sufficient for days on end. Pro tip: a proper fit is crucial for comfort—don’t skimp on the adjustments!

For Travel:

Jetting off for a few weeks? A spacious 50L+ pack is a lifesaver. Plenty of room for outfit changes and souvenirs, but here’s a cheeky tip: don’t overpack! Save room for treasures you’ll bring home—because who doesn’t love a little travel memento?

How to pack your backpack like a pro

Packing smart is all about convenience and comfort:

  • Convenience: Tuck items you won’t need during the day (sleeping bag, pajamas, etc.) at the bottom of your pack. Keep essentials like food, water, and layers within easy reach.

  • Comfort: Balance is everything. Place heavier items low and close to your back to avoid feeling like a toppling tower. Your backpack should work with you, not against you.

Backpack fit tips: snug and secure, but never strangling

Start with the waist belt—it should sit snugly on the top of your hips. Next, adjust the shoulder straps—firm but never too tight. You want to share the load between your hips and shoulders. Finally, tweak the sternum strap—it’s all about relieving shoulder pressure without constriction. Comfort is key, folks!