Before you set out on your next backpacking trip, you should have everything you need packed and ready to go. That includes the right kind of backpack.
While most people don’t think twice about their choice of backpack when they hit the trail, that isn’t something you want to take lightly. In fact, your backpack can make or break your entire trip.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the different kinds of backpacks available for backpacking enthusiasts, what features are most important to look for in a high-end backpack for backpacking trips, and a comprehensive list of the best backpacking backpacks for any budget.
What Is a Backpacking Backpack?
A backpacking backpack is a special type of backpack designed to be lightweight and compact enough to be carried while backpacking.
Backpacking backpacks are designed to carry a lot of gear and supplies while using as little space as possible. Backpacking backpacks are usually larger (to accommodate more gear) and more sturdy than regular day backpacks.
Backpacking backpacks usually have a single large compartment that closes with a drawstring or zipper. Some backpacks have a top compartment that can be used for storing smaller items like socks or a jacket.
Backpacking backpacks often come with side pockets where you can store water bottles, snacks, and other smaller items. Backpacking backpacks are designed to be lightweight. This means that they are smaller and have fewer pockets than day backpacks.
Types of Backpacks for Backpacking
Backpacking backpacks: The main difference between a backpacking backpack and a day pack is the size. A backpacking backpack will be more spacious and capable of holding more gear than a day pack.
Day packs: A day backpack is smaller and more compact than a backpacking backpack. Day backpacks often have a single main compartment and a smaller front pocket. Day backpacks can be great for hiking, going to the gym, or taking to work.
Hiking backpacks: A hiking backpack is larger than a day pack but smaller than a backpacking backpack. Hiking backpacks have a large main compartment with smaller pockets for storing smaller items like water bottles, snacks, and other supplies. Hiking backpacks often have shoulder straps and a hip belt so that the weight of your gear is distributed more evenly.
Mountaineering backpacks: A mountaineering backpack is a large backpack that has a large capacity (often around 100 liters). Typically intended for expedition-style backpacking, these backpacks are designed to carry a lot of gear while being lightweight enough to be carried over long distances.
Trekking backpacks: Trekking backpacks are larger than day packs but smaller than backpacking backpacks. Trekking backpacks are usually designed for hiking and backpacking, but they can also be used for other outdoor activities. Trekking backpacks have a large main compartment and smaller pockets.
Why Is Quality Important?
There are a few crucial factors you should consider when choosing a backpack for a backpacking trip. First and foremost, you need to think about how much gear you will be carrying. You’ll want to make sure that your backpack has enough space to hold everything you need for your trip—but not so much space that it becomes too heavy to carry.
You’ll also want to consider the terrain you will be trekking. You’ll want a backpack that is durable, waterproof, and sturdy enough to handle slippery terrain or inclement weather. You should also take into consideration the weight of your backpack and how it will affect your trek. You’ll want to make sure that your backpack is lightweight enough for your frame.
How To Choose the Right Type of Backpack?
First, you’ll want to think about how much gear you will be carrying. Are you trekking on a shorter trip? Or are you embarking on a longer journey? Next, you want to consider the terrain you’ll be trekking. Will you be trekking through snow? Or through a desert? Are there river crossings in your trek?
You’ll also want to consider inclement weather. Are you trekking in a rainforest? Or a desert? When choosing a backpacking backpack, you’ll want to consider the capacity of your backpack. How much gear do you need to carry?
You’ll also want to consider the number of pockets and compartments in your backpack. Does your backpack have enough pockets for storing gear like water bottles, snacks, and other supplies?
Best Brands for High-end Backpacks
For high-end backpacks, we recommend brands like The North Face and Patagonia. For high-end backpacks, you’ll want to make sure that you get a backpack that is durable, lightweight, and sturdy enough to withstand challenging weather conditions or a long trek.
For example, The North Face Base Camp backpacks are designed with durability in mind. They’re made with a sturdy nylon material and are designed to withstand challenging weather conditions like rain and snow. They also come with plenty of pockets for storing gear like water bottles, snacks, and other supplies.
Trekking in inclement weather? Patagonia backpacks are designed with waterproof zippers and an airtight, waterproof main compartment. They’re designed to hold up in even the harshest of conditions.
Conclusion
When selecting a backpack for your next backpacking trip, you’ll want to make sure that you select a backpack that is durable and lightweight enough for your trek.
When choosing a backpack, you’ll want to consider the capacity of your backpack, the number of pockets and compartments in your backpack, and the brand of backpack that you’re selecting.
You’ll want to make sure that your backpack is large enough to hold all of your gear but not too large that it becomes too heavy to trek with.
