From hiking backpacks to daypacks and bags for weekend trips, this guide will take you through the various sizes and common features to help you choose the best backpack for you.

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Size	Capacity	Suggested Uses
Mini and Small Backpacks	6 -10 Liters	Days Out / Kids Bags / Sports
Daypacks	10 - 30 Liters	Commuting / Hiking / Day  Walks
Medium Backpacks	30 - 50 Liters	Overnight Trips / Camping /  Hiking
Large Rucksacks	50 Liters +	Travelling / Backpacking /  Expeditions

Best For: Days out, Kids and Sports.

Not Suitable For: Carrying large heavy loads or for extended trips.

Mini backpacks are very versatile and are as suitable to shopping trips as they are for day trips or walks. An 8 or 10 litre backpack will easily accommodate a packed lunch, drink and some packable waterproofs.

Their compact size also means they make great kids backpacks. An 8 or 10 litre backpack makes the ideal school bag whilst our 6 litre backpacks are the perfect size for younger children.

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One of the main factors to consider when choosing the best backpack for you is how big it needs to be. This will depend on what you plan to use if for (eg. everyday bag or a week-long trip) and how much you need to take (the essentials or kit for an overnight stay).

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People often ask how big is a 65 litre backpack? Or how much can I fit in a 30 litre backpack? Backpacks are measured by the total capacity of all of the pockets in litres. Essentially, you’ll be able to fit 30 litres of gear in a 30 litre backpack. This however might not mean a great deal when you are trying to decide if a backpack is big or small enough for your needs. It’s often easier to look at the actual measurements (perhaps even compare to a bag you already own), to get an idea of how big the backpack is.

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It’s important that your backpack fits correctly so you can carry it in comfort. This will depend on your build and back length (not your overall height). Most backpacks will come with adjustable back straps (bigger backpacks are also likely to have adjustable chest straps) to ensure your backpack fits securely and comfortably. If the backpack sits too low, even when adjusted, it is too big for you.

You may decide to pick a backpack that comes in women’s fit. This is a backpack that has all the same features as a regular fit but is designed with a shorter back system for a smaller torso and with less space between the two shoulder straps to fit onto your body better. You will find that the shoulder straps are cured to accommodate a woman’s bust and the chest strap will be positioned above it. Women’s fit also has a narrower hip belt and shoulder straps. Our Ventura 40L, the Tor 65L and the Inca Extreme 65L are all available in women’s fit.

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A rain cover (tucked away in a handy pocket) is useful for covering your backpack to stop the contents getting wet in the rain. If your pack doesn’t come with a rain cover you can buy one separately. 

Around 70% of the weight of the pack will sit on your hips. An adjustable hip belt is a common feature on medium and large backpacks as it helps to secure the bag around the hip area for added support and load transfer.

Compression straps (adjustable straps which can be found on the top, side or down the front of backpacks) can be pulled tight to reduce the volume of the pack and to minimise movement of items within.

Adjustable straps are essential for ensuring a good fit. Chest straps ensure the pack is secure and help distribute some of the weight. For larger backpacks you can adjust the height of the straps depending on the length of your back. Straps will often be padded for added comfort which is especially important for heavy backpacks.

External clips and hooks can be used to attach equipment to your backpack, especially useful for hikers and travellers. These include daisy chains (a strip of webbing loops), elasticated cords and walking pole hoops. Carabiners can also be purchased seperately to attach additional kit to your backpack.

Multiple internal and externals pockets are useful for organising and separating contents. Internal security pockets are essential for stashing valuables whilst side mesh pockets are ideal for holding water bottles.

To help divide contents further, some larger packs may have a completely separate bottom compartment with zipped access that is closed inside with a drawstring. Larger backpacks might also include a hip belt and lid pockets for easy access to important and frequently used items.

If you plan to wear your pack in the dark, reflective piping will help you be seen.

Larger backpacks may have internal frames to distribute weight and provide support to your hips to help you keep an upright walking posture.