I constantly get DM's about backpacks, SOOO here is a post all about how to choose, what to look out for, resources that you can look at before buying, and all of my recommendations!
How to choose | BAckpacks
Terms to know:
1) Daypack: a daypack is a smaller bag that is used for day hiking trips. To get a picture of what this might look like, think of school bags. These bags range from 15 liters to about 30 liters.
2) Hiking Backpacking: a hiking backpack is a larger bag that is used for multi-day trips or overnight trips in general. A multi-day hiking backpack will range from 35 liters for the ultralight and up to 80 liters.
3) Liters: the capacity of a backpack is measured in liters.
4) Internal frame: an internal frame backpack has a built-in structure. These are the most common type of backpack for backpackers, especially beginners.
5) Frameless: this is a backpack with no frame or structure. Typically these are what ultralight backpackers use and the gear in your backpack serves as the structure.
6) Baseweight: total weight of your entire gear kit, excluding consumables which are food, water, and fuel. This is important to pay attention to make sure that you are not carrying a backpack that is too heavy.
7) Ultralight: ultralight is a category of backpacking that makes a point to pack only the essentials when backpacking. These hikers tend to have a low base weight of 7 to 11 pounds.
Pay Attention to:
1) Backpack capacity, which is the maximum weight and volume that can be carried. Weight will be indicated in pounds, but volume will be indicated in liters.
2) Your personal measurements! Pay attention to this because I made sure I did. I have a shorter torso, so having a pack that was adjustable was a priority for me.
My tips:
1) Know what size you need!
Backpacks come in many sizes, such as daypacks and hiking backpacks. Daypacks range from 10 liters to approximately 40 liters and anything greater than that would be considered a multi-day backpack!
The size will be determined by how much you want to carry and how many days you intend to be out on the trail.
For reference, I use a 60L backpack for my trips. I can fit everything for a multi-day trip.
2) Know what frame size you will need!
I have a very small torso, so even my s/m sized frame it a bit too big. Everyone's torso is different. Pay attention to this because this can make or break for the fit of your pack.
3) Make a list of your deal-breakers!
Do you want a pack with a waterproof fabric? How about external pockets? BIg hip-belt pockets? A sleeping bag compartment? Roll top? Front loading?
4) Brand loyalty may influence you.
If you have a brand that you trust, go with that brand. I have a Gregory daypack and I ended up buying a Gregory backpacking pack. This does not mean that I didn't consider brands.
5) Read reviews!
Say you don't have a brand that you are loyal to, I would suggest starting with reading reviews of popular packs.
This should get you started on your backpacking search.
My affordable BAckpack Recommendations
Price: $219.95
Weight: 3lbs 5oz
Liters: 45 L
Price: $319.95
Weight: 4lbs 9oz
Liters: 60 L
Price: $149.00
Weight: 3lbs 11oz
Liters: 60 L
