Hiking Backpacks

A hiking rucksack is a bag worn on the shoulders and hips, designed for walking several hours with water, clothes and supplies. The volume is chosen based on the duration of the outing, the fit based on the length of the back, and the opening depending on how often you stop.

What volume of hiking rucksack for your outing

A day trip fits in a small volume: water, a windbreaker, a picnic and a first aid kit. A hiking rucksack 20L suits this format and remains stable on descents. For a weekend in a lodge, with a sleeping bag and spare clothes, a hiking rucksack 40 litres becomes more comfortable. Beyond that, larger sizes are for trekking in autonomy, when the tent and stove travel with you. It’s better to have a hiking rucksack filled three-quarters full than a bag that is too small strapped from all sides.

Carrying, back and waist: adjusting a hiking rucksack

The weight is carried on the hips, not the shoulders. First, tighten the hip belt on the top of the pelvis, then adjust the straps, and finally, adjust the load lifters. The length of the back matters more than clothing size, and several models can be adjusted in height for this reason. Some cuts shorten the back, shape the hip belt and bring the straps closer together: these hiking rucksacks are recognised by these construction details, not their colour. A hiking rucksack that fits well does not bounce on descents.

Materials, pockets and quick access of the hiking rucksack

High tenacity nylon withstands rock abrasion better than lightweight polyester, at the cost of a few grams. Then look at how the bag opens: top access only requires everything to come out, while a front or side opening allows access to the bottom without emptying it. A water pocket and two pole holders make a long day much more comfortable. The integrated rain cover is handy, but it does not replace items packed in waterproof bags.

A hiking rucksack 50 litres marks the boundary with trekking: beyond this, the hip belt becomes essential.