Almost like choosing your favorite child, picking out the perfect bag to play sidekick on your next adventure can be daunting. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back (literally). Here are some tips to help find the perfect size backpack for your next adventure:
- Determine the length of your trip: Are you going on a day hike or a multi-day backcountry excursion? If it’s just a day trip, you can probably get away with a smaller daypack. For men, I like the Citro 24 H2O because it has all the comfort and organization you need to conquer the day, plus a hydration system that’ll keep you sipping and smiling on the trail. No need to stop for a water break, or ask your hiking buddy to pull out the water bottle that you can’t reach unless you have insanely flexible arms. For women, the Juno 24 keeps you cool and your gear accessible with the breathable Vaporspan suspension and convenient zippered hip-belt pockets. No need to stop your hike to grab your camera – all the trail magic can be captured on the go! If you’re planning on roughing it for a few days, you’ll need a bigger one to hold all of your gear. The Gregory Zulu 65 or the Gregory Jade 63 are great options for multi-day trips. Oh, and they are on a ripping sale right now!
- Consider the amount of gear you’ll need to carry: Don’t forget to bring the essentials, like food, water, extra clothing, and first-aid supplies. If you’re an ultralight hiker, you may be able to get away with a smaller backpack, but if you’re carrying a lot of gear, like your insanely heavy camera gear (like me), you’ll need a larger backpack. It is better to have a little bit more room instead of an overly stuffed bag o your back.
- Think about your body type: Backpacks come in different shapes and sizes, so make sure you choose one that fits your body type. Time to hit up your local outdoor retailer and go on a backpack speed-dating session! Try on as many backpacks as you like, and don’t be afraid to put them to the test by loading them up with some weights. It’s the best way to see how they’ll feel on the trail and to make sure you’re not stuck with a backpack that’s all talk and no comfort.
- Look for a backpack with adjustable features: An adjustable backpack is a great choice because it allows you to adjust the size and fit of the backpack to your body type and the amount of gear you’re carrying. Look for a backpack with adjustable shoulder straps, a waist belt, and load-lifter straps.
- How do You Hydrate: Some people prefer the convenience of having water readily accessible from their backpack like in the Citro 24 H2O and Juno 24 H2O, while others prefer to carry a water bottle, like a trusty sidekick. So, it comes down to personal preference. Will you choose the comfort and convenience of a hydration backpack or the freedom of a water bottle? The choice is yours, my hydration hero!
And there you have it folks! The mystery of finding the perfect backpack for your hiking adventure has been solved. Whether you’re a day hiker or a multi-day backcountry warrior, this short guide should have you covered. In a nutshell: the key to finding the perfect backpack is to consider the length of your trip, the amount of gear you’ll need to carry, your body type, and of course, how you like to hydrate. So, go forth and conquer those trails with a backpack that fits you like a glove! And don’t forget to do a little dance when you celebrate your hydration success. Happy hiking!