How to choose a hiking backpack?
A backpack is a very important piece of equipment on any mountain expedition. A well-designed model with durable construction and appropriately sized capacity will make it easier to carry and organize your equipment, ensuring freedom of movement and safety during climbing or trekking. It is thanks to it that you will be able to take with you the most necessary things, such as clothes, sleeping bag, tent, food or other hiking equipment.
For many people, choosing the right backpack for the mountains can be a bit of a challenge, so we have prepared a guide from which you can learn what to pay attention to when choosing a backpack for the mountains, as well as which backpack to choose depending on the length of the expedition.
What to look for when choosing a backpack for the mountains?
Whether you're going on a day hike or a longer trip, choosing the right backpack has a big impact on your comfort and convenience while traveling. When buying a backpack, pay attention not only to its capacity, but also to its construction. You will find many models on the market, so it is worth using the method of elimination to choose for yourself the best possible backpack for your mountain expeditions.
Backpack material
When choosing a backpack for the mountains, it is worth paying attention to the material from which it is made. It is important that it is durable, resistant to mechanical damage and moisture. One of the strongest materials used in the manufacture of backpacks is Cordura. However, due to its relatively high weight, backpack manufacturers often choose other materials that, although inferior to Cordura in terms of strength, are lighter alternatives. A popular choice instead of Cordura is nylon and polyester. These are synthetic fabrics that have many advantages, such as lightness, durability, abrasion resistance and ease of care.
It is good to pay attention not only to the fabric, but also to the quality of the stitching. The seams should be reinforced in key areas to ensure the durability and tear resistance of the backpack.
Main compartment, type of fastening and additional backpack components
It is important that the backpack has a large main compartment to hold all the essentials. The type of closure of the backpack is also important. We recommend models with a zipper or an extension collar with a flap. It is worth paying attention to backpacks with an additional opening in the front, which will allow easy access to all the equipment.
A backpack for an expedition to the mountains should be equipped with several key elements, regardless of its size. These include:
- Compression straps - allow you to adjust the volume of the backpack - you can tighten them to reduce the space or loosen them to increase it.
- Additional pockets - small, but very practical when hiking. They are used for quick access to a map, compass, bottle and other small accessories.
- Straps - will allow you to attach poles, jacket, sleeping pad, climbing equipment, etc. to the backpack.
- Cover - even the most durable material will not provide full protection for the backpack during very heavy rainfall, so a good trekking or hiking backpack should have an integrated cover or be equipped with a separate, dedicated cover.
- Extension collar - an extension collar in a backpack is a useful addition. Typically, larger and medium-sized backpacks are equipped with an extension collar to increase capacity by a few liters. In contrast, smaller backpacks usually do not have an extension collar and are closed with a zipper.
Backpack for the mountains vs. the length of the trip
When you choose a hiking backpack for the mountains, one of the most important factors to consider is the length of your planned route. The length of the trip affects the number of things you need to carry, which in turn affects the size and capacity of the backpack you will need.
Backpack weight
What should be the weight of a backpack for the mountains? If you are planning a one-day hike, the weight of your backpack should not exceed 1-1.2 kg. For longer expeditions, it is worth choosing models weighing no more than 3 kg. Differences in weight between backpacks of the same capacity are due to the use of lighter materials or the lack of certain functionalities. When buying, it is worth paying attention to what is missing from the lighter model and whether the materials used are of high quality. For example, some manufacturers skimp on the size of the hip belt, which can negatively affect the comfort of the backpack.
When choosing a backpack for mountain hiking, an important factor is its capacity. It is worth noting that manufacturers sometimes use different methods for calculating the capacity of backpacks, so it is important to look at them carefully when buying. What capacity of a backpack for the mountains should you choose? For one-day trips, a backpack with a capacity of 15-35 liters is sufficient, for several days - 40-50 liters, and for longer hikes - 50-80 liters. With larger backpacks, it is important to pack sensibly so as not to burden the spine with unnecessary weight.
Carrying system - what to pay attention to?
A well-chosen carrying system is the key to carrying luggage comfortably and safely. For backpacks with a capacity of more than 40 liters, consider choosing a model equipped with a solid and wide hip belt. This element allows you to transfer up to 70% of the weight from your shoulders to your hips. A good carrying system should include comfortable shoulder straps, a hip belt and a chest strap to evenly distribute the weight of the backpack and ensure comfort.
What kind of backpack to take to the mountains for a day?
Choosing the right size backpack for a day in the mountains should be based on the number of items to be carried. For such trips, a 15–35-liter backpack is the most common choice. For most trips, a 15–20-liter model will suffice. This size of backpack will provide enough space to carry the necessary equipment. However, if you're planning a winter trip, such as skydiving, you'll need more space for winter gear and clothes, making it advisable to choose a backpack with a capacity of 30-35 liters.
It is important to choose a backpack that is comfortable and has a suitable carrying system to ensure stability and comfort during your hike. Other useful functionalities to look out for include side pockets for a water bottle or other small items.
To choose a small backpack for the mountains, it's a good idea to lay out all the things you need in one place and adjust the right size backpack based on that.
Backpack for the mountains for 3 days - which one to choose?
The longer the hiking route, the greater the risk of unexpected changes in weather conditions, greater fatigue and the need to carry more clothing and equipment. That's why it's so important to have a roomy backpack that will allow you to take all the necessary equipment with you.
If you are looking for a backpack for three days in the mountains, a backpack with a capacity of about 40-50 liters would be a good choice. In such a backpack you will be able to fit essentials such as changing clothes, overnight accessories, food or water. Pay attention to whether the backpack has enough space for a sleeping bag if you decide to spend the night in a hostel or tent, for example.
Offer of backpacks for the mountains in the MILITARY.EU
If you are wondering what kind of backpack for the mountains to choose, then at MILITARY.EU you will find many models of backpacks that will work well during various types of mountain expeditions. We offer backpacks from well-known manufacturers: Pentagon, Wisport, Badger Outdoor, Gregory, Deuter, Alpinus, Fjord Nansen. Our backpacks are made of high-strength materials such as nylon, polyester and Cordura, which ensures long life and resistance to mechanical damage. These materials are resistant to abrasion and tearing, which is especially important if the backpack is used intensively.
In our offer, you will find backpacks with a reinforced carrying system, with hip and chest straps that provide adequate stabilization and back relief during a long hike. No matter what type of backpack you choose, you can be sure that you will find a quality product from us that will meet your requirements and allow you to safely and comfortably explore mountain trails.
