?
When selecting a backpack, you need to consider several factors. What type of backpack do you need? What size should it be? What features are essential? What price range can you accept? In general, the market offers soft daypacks(Daypack), external framed packs(External Framed Pack), and internal framed packs(Internal Framed Pack). The type of pack you choose mainly depends on the kind of outdoor activities you’re into.
Generally speaking, if you’re only doing casual urban sightseeing, single-day hiking, or short suburban climbs without the need for a tent, sleeping bag, or stove, a daypack will suffice. These packs range in capacity from10liters-40liters, with not much variation among brands. These are similar to the backpacks students use, and more functional ones may come with a waist belt. When choosing, pay attention to the quality of the shoulder straps, and it’s best if the zippers are of the heavy-duty, toothed typeYKK.
External framed packs once dominated the market for large outdoor backpacks. These packs feature anHexternal metal frame that allows you to hang gear like camera cases or stoves on the outside. They’re not very expensive and are relatively easy to pack. If you often hike in flat, open areas, an external framed pack could be a good choice. However, their downsides are quite obvious—generally, they’re less comfortable to carry than internal framed packs. Their support system relies mainly on thick shoulder straps, making it harder to maintain balance on complex trails. If you plan to hike through forests, caves, or streams, ski, or climb, it’s best to avoid external framed packs. Also, they’re inconvenient for public transport. You wouldn’t want to squeeze onto a bus like a giant crab with all your gear, and long-distance buses or trains usually don’t have luggage racks big enough. Airline check-in can also be troublesome, and even if you take a taxi, it might not fit in the trunk.
When you see the colorful, diverse, and feature-packed internal framed packs at an outdoor gear store, you might feel overwhelmed. Internal framed packs now dominate the large backpack market, with many brands showcasing their designs. Although initially created for mountaineers, skiers, and those tackling challenging hikes, they’ve gained widespread acceptance, so many people opt for them when buying a large backpack. Internal framed packs also have a frame, but it’s located inside the pack. The frame is typically made of aluminum alloy,fiberglass, or carbon fiber, and it conforms closely to the wearer’s body. High-quality packs can even adjust the frame to your body shape, ensuring a snugger fit. When choosing an internal framed pack, make sure it fits well—the better it fits, the better the weight distribution. A truly good pack doesn’t just sit on your back—it feels like a piece of clothing.
First, decide how big a pack you need. Internal framed packs generally range in capacity from40-120liters. For most travelers, a65-75liter pack is sufficient for the majority of long trips. If you plan to camp in the wild for extended periods, if you’re a hardcore outdoor enthusiast, or if you tend to travel like you’re moving house, you might need a120liter pack—ha ha. Honestly, most people won’t need anything over100liters. Also, theoretically, the maximum weight you should carry is one-third of your body weight. Overloading will only lead to misery—you’ll know exactly how tough it is when you’re carrying it. So,pack lightly, it’s best to play it safe.
When buying a pack, don’t just look at capacity and size—you also need to consider what size support system you require(suspension system). Before choosing a pack, it’s best to ask a family member or friend to help you measure your(preferably using a tailor’s soft measuring tape)to determine yourtorso length(torso length). This refers to the distance from the seventh vertebra(the most prominent bone at the base of your neck where it meets your shoulders)to the vertebra level with your hip bones. Your torso length should match the internal frame design—don’t assume that because you’re1meters8tall, you need a large pack. Some people have long torsos and short legs, while others have short torsos and long legs. Generally, if your torso length is less than45centimeters, you should buy a small-sized backpack. If your torso length is between45-52centimeters, you should choose a medium-sized backpack. If your torso length is over52centimeters, you should pick a large-sized backpack. Good manufacturers offer extra-large(56centimeters and above)or extra-small sizes(40centimeters and below), and they can also custom-make backpacks. Backpack sizes vary greatly among manufacturers, and even different series from the same manufacturer may have different dimensions. It’s best to ask for details or look up some information; if all else fails, measure the length of the internal frame.
Let’s talk about the suspension system. In addition to the internal frame mentioned above, the suspension system also includes shoulder straps(ShoulderBelt), a waist belt(HipBelt), and a chest strap(ChestBelt). Good manufacturers and retailers can replace the shoulder straps and waist belt according to your body shape. Additionally, because men and women have different body shapes, good manufacturers design specific backpack styles for women. The suspension systems on these backpacks are specially made to accommodate female body characteristics.
Backpack sizes vary by manufacturer, but generally speaking, the waist belt sizes are as follows: if your waist circumference(measured around the hips)is68centimeters or less, choose an extra-small size. If your waist circumference is68-78centimeters, choose a small size. If your waist circumference is78-92centimeters, choose a medium size. If your waist circumference is92-106centimeters, choose a large size. If your waist circumference is106centimeters or more, choose an extra-large size. As for the shoulder straps, when adjusted properly, there should be no gaps between them and your shoulder blades((except for people with hunched backs)).
A good backpack allows you to freely adjust the weight distribution on your shoulders, so you can adapt it at any time based on your stamina and environment. In short, when a good suspension system is properly adjusted, it can transfer most of the weight(60%and above)to your hips and thighs, which will make your shoulders much more comfortable and allow for greater freedom of movement. That way, you’ll have enough energy to enjoy nature.
Let’s briefly discuss functionality. First, the material—generally, good backpacks use materials that are both durable and somewhat water-resistant. Be sure to choose a backpack with an ultra-strong material for the bottom, as it’s one of the most wear-prone areas and is best made from500DCORDURAThis type of material is both durable and slightly water-resistant. Be sure to choose a backpack with an ultra-strong base. This is one of the most easily worn areas, so it's best to use...1000DCordurafabric. Go for largeYKKzippers. Although these features may add some weight, it’s better for them to be sturdy. The suspension system must have good padding and be durable. If it’s too soft, you’ll regret it when carrying heavy loads.
The padding material between the internal frame and your body can be slightly softer, preferably mesh-like to absorb sweat. The inside of the backpack is best equipped with extendable"collar sections."(StormCollar). When you don’t need to carry much, your backpack looks small. For example,95a 40-liter pack might look more like70a 30-liter one. A detachable backpack lid. Once you’ve set up camp, you can leave other items in the car or at the campsite, remove the lid, put essentials inside, and you've got a small daypack. Most packs have a dedicated sleeping bag compartment, which you can also use for other items if you don’t need a sleeping bag.
Some backpacks can be loaded not only from the top but also through a front pocket(FrontPocket)that connects to the main compartment. If you need to access something from the bottom of the pack after it’s packed, you can unzip the front pocket instead of digging through everything from the top. Additionally, a water bottle pocket is very useful. It’s best if it has gear attachment points. As for whether it can carry an ice axe or tripod, that depends on individual needs — most people won’t use those. Hydration systemsHydrationSystemdepend on personal habits and preferences.
Once you’ve determined the capacity you need, you should try several brands and styles, test them one by one, and then decide. If you can borrow a few backpacks from friends and try them out for a few trips, that’s even better. In the U.S. market, well-regarded brands includeDanaDesign,Gregory,ArcTeryx,OSPREY. In addition,LoweAlpine,KELTYandTheNorthFaceare also pretty good. European brands are rarely sold in the U.S., mainly due to marketing reasons.
Many friends in China highly recommend German brands likeBIGPACK,VAUDE. Actually, the brand isn’t that important, but many of us can’t help falling into that trap when choosing products. If the suspension system fits well and the craftsmanship is solid, the grade and price don’t matter. Remember, no matter what"grade"or brand of backpack you get, if it doesn’t fit, it can still give you painful shoulder marks.
Finally, let’s talk about how to pack your backpack. We’ve discussed how to buy a backpack, but the most important thing is actually how you pack it. If an internal-frame backpack isn’t packed properly, it can be really uncomfortable to carry — not just tiring, but you might even strain your back. My experience is limited, so it’s best to ask an experienced outdoor enthusiast to help you plan your packing. Generally speaking, carrying an internal-frame backpack requires leaning your body slightly forward. This is also a downside of internal-frame packs, as it can get tiring over time. However, good packing can solve or alleviate this issue.
Usually, heavier items should be placed near the top and close to your back — like your stove or lights. A higher center of gravity allows you to stand up straighter. Your camera and lenses can also go near the top if you can fit them in a small camera bag. That way, you can take them out easily when you reach a scenic spot.
Place your sleeping bag and clothes you won’t change into at the bottom, and try to put other unused items there too. Items you need to access frequently should go in side pockets, like your rain jacket, map, compass, etc. In any case, it’s best to bring your commonly used gear to the store when trying out a backpack.
Be picky — never settle for something that doesn’t fit or feel comfortable. The salesperson is more concerned about how much they can earn, but for you, it’s not just about a few hundred dollars.
Trailblazer, an outdoor adventure and self-drive travel website.