How to choose your hiking backpack?

What volume for what use?

The first element to take into account is the volume of the bag. From 15 to more than 60 liters, the choice is vast.

For a day trip, in the plains or low mountains , a 15 to 20 liter backpack will be more than enough to carry a rain jacket, a water bottle and a snack. If you are transporting the belongings of several people, a 20 to 30 liter model will be more suitable.

These bags most often have a compartment
main, an exterior zipped pocket for valuables (wallet, keys, smartphone, etc.) and one or two mesh pockets on the sides . From 20 liters, certain models offer already advanced carrying systems, in particular with a worked back panel, ergonomic shoulder straps, a chest strap and a central belt, or even hip stabilizers.

For a 1 to 3 day hike in the mountains with
nights in a refuge, a 30 to 40 liter bag is recommended in order to be able to carry all the equipment necessary to cope with changing conditions (fleece, windproof and waterproof jacket, pants, etc.), as well as several liters of drink and food.

Compared to smaller bags, these bags often offer several compartments , including a lower compartment accessible from the outside via a zip allowing you to accommodate, for example, a sleeping bag and an inflatable mattress . They are also equipped with compression straps to perfectly adapt the bag to the volume to be carried and to guarantee optimal stability. There are also numerous small storage spaces, allowing quick and easy access to your belongings . Many of them also allow you to slide in a hydration reservoir of 1.5 to 2 liters, or even 3 liters, available separately.

Here, the carrying system combines a comfortable back panel, most often adjustable in height, ergonomic shoulder straps , all completed by comfortable hip stabilizers equipped with zipped pockets .

Finally, for a traveling hike over several days or a trek with nights in a tent , a minimum volume of 50 liters is required .

Using the design of the 30 to 40 liter models, notably with two compartments, numerous storage spaces and an ultra-comfortable carrying system ,
These bags are distinguished by more modularity , with compartments that are sometimes expandable to adapt more precisely and avoid too much empty space in the bag, causing less stability.

These bags also have numerous external attachments for transporting a tent or drying laundry.

Carrying and adjustment systems

There are two main backboard systems: mesh systems and 3D foam contact systems.

Light and ergonomic, the net system is based on
a metal frame to create a reliable ventilation space between the bag and the back, through which moist air can evaporate freely . At the back, you have the feeling of not carrying a bag.

The weight is ideally distributed across the hips and the straps are almost only used to hold the bag.

This system is generally based on a metal frame which, however, provides more rigidity and conforms less to the shape of your back.

The 3D foam back system is characterized by great flexibility and optimal comfort.

Adapting perfectly to your lines , the foam panels incorporate a lining with a ventilation channel to reduce perspiration, even if ventilation is less than on a mesh system. The foam allows optimal distribution of
charge.

By keeping the load close to the body, this system modifies your center of gravity less than a net system which can tend to take you into
rear on steep slopes.

It should be noted that for certain models from 30 liters, some brands offer women's versions, with a shorter back and a carrying system specially adapted to the female anatomy.

In addition to the back panel, the carrying system is completed by ergonomic shoulder straps made of breathable foam on most models from 20 liters and by hip stabilizers to considerably and comfortably lighten the load on the shoulders. .

These stabilizers feature foam padding and also offer the advantage of having a zippered pocket on each side.

Finally, in terms of adjustments , most backpacks have a strap at chest level and a waist belt to hold everything around the waist.