Choose the best mountaineering backpack

Types of expedition backpacks - how to adjust backpacks to your needs?

At the very beginning, it’s worth mentioning that there are many types of expedition rucksacks available on the market. The choice of the proper one depends on the kind of your expedition. You can go on a fast & light trip or spend even more than ten days or a trail. However, the length of the trip doesn’t determine the choice of the backpack. What’s most important then? The backpack is supposed to suit your intentions. There’s no point in choosing a big backpack, which will be only half full or opting for a rucksack that will be too small, then the trip won’t be comfortable for you. A trekking rucksack should be of such a size that there is still a few litres of free space when all the necessary things are put in. Another important aspect is to adapt the backpack to the type of activity. A different rucksack will work well for climbing and a different one for ski touring.

We’ve prepared for you an overview of the types of rucksacks together with their characteristics.

Trip backpacks: backpacks that typically have a capacity of 40 to 60 litres. They are perfect for one-day or multi-day trips. Backpacks for several-day excursions have braces, extra pockets to provide stability and comfort. Transport backpacks: bigger backpacks with more than 60 litre capacity. They're made to carry large amounts of luggage. These backpacks will serve you well during long trekking.

Mountaineering backpacks: developed with mountaineering in mind. They are typically up to 20 to 40 litres in size, providing comfort and freedom of movement while climbing. What sets them apart are the special attachment systems that allow climbing equipment to be strapped to them. Trail backpacks: they are perfect for long hikes in the mountains and forests. Unlike mountaineering backpacks, they have a larger capacity (between 30 and 70 litres), allowing you to pack everything you need.

Survival rucksacks: these are very robust rucksacks that are resistant to various weather conditions. They contain the equipment necessary to survive in difficult, even extreme conditions. They easily accommodate food, clothing and essential equipment.

Trekking (expedition) backpacks: the most popular type of mountain models. Their capacity ranges from 20 to 50 litres. They are suitable for a day hike, but with a high intensity or for a weekend trip to the mountains.

Cabin backpacks: the capacity of this type of backpack is a maximum of 20 litres. They are able to hold a water bottle, food and a rain jacket, so it is a good choice for longer walks than trekking.

Hiking backpacks: these will mainly work well for short day hikes. They usually have a capacity of 15-30 litres and will hold essentials such as water, food, a jacket or first aid kit.

Backpacks for short trips (up to 30 litres)

Backpacks up to 30 litres are ideal for day trips in the mountains. On the surface, they may resemble a city rucksack, but nothing could be further from the truth. A trekking rucksack up to 30 litres has a much better carry system, space for a hydration system and often straps for attaching trekking poles. Backpacks of this size do not often have internal frames, making them very lightweight. The Deuter brand offers unrivalled models . Backpacks up to 30 L can easily be rolled up and stowed in a larger rucksack, and taken out for some shorter trips. However, their disadvantage is that they are less comfortable than larger capacity rucksacks, due to the fact that they have a smaller carrying system. It is also simply smaller, so packing it requires a bit of strategic skill to accommodate everything we will need during our trip.

In the S'portofino collection you will find an extremely lightweight backpack for one-day hiking by Bach. Thanks to its comfortable and ventilated carrying system, and its modular options for attaching equipment, it will be the perfect companion for short weekend hikes as well as long treks.

Backpacks for longer hikes (30-50 litres)

These are probably the most versatile models. They are perfect for a few days of trekking, as well as for summer and even winter climbing or ski touring. They are ideal for longer trips. It can also be used for a day trip to the mountains. Backpacks of this capacity have an internal rigid frame, as well as an adjustable carry system. The Thule backpack with a capacity of 40 litres is extremely versatile. It has a special SafeZone compartment where we can store our phone and other small items, and in the CashStash compartment you can store money without fear of theft.

A medium capacity hiking backpack can be a challenge because of the huge variety of available models. This includes not only typical climbing and trekking backpacks, but also hybrid designs that combine different aspects of mountain activities. At one end of the scale, you'll find ultra-durable backpacks made from thick cordura that are ready for the toughest conditions. At the other end, there are ultralight models that may, however, offer a lower load capacity, a simplified carrying system and fewer compartments and pockets. The choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Expedition backpacks (over 50 litres)

These backpacks are suitable for longer expeditions in the mountains. When choosing a backpack of this type, it is important to look first and foremost at its carry system. Expedition backpacks over 50 litres should have a sturdy hip belt that transfers the weight of your gear to your hips. Larger backpacks are also taller, so it is a good idea for them to have additional access to the main compartment beyond the top entrance, so that user comfort is at its highest level. A long zipper located on the side or front that opens the interior wide will be ideal. The best trekking models of this capacity have numerous pockets to help organise your gear.

Backpack capacity - how do you choose the right size for your expedition?

Choosing the right backpack capacity is crucial for comfort and functionality on any of your expeditions. To choose the right size backpack for your expedition, there are several elements to consider, including the length of the trip, the season, the type of trip. Remember that different activities and conditions require a backpack with different capacities, plus the seasons can significantly affect the amount of gear you need. Let's start with the basics, i.e. consider the length of the trip. For one-day hikes, a small hiking backpack with a capacity of 15 to 30 litres will be sufficient to carry essentials such as water, food, a rain jacket and a map. If your trek will last between 2 and 3 days, a backpack with a capacity of 30-50 litres is recommended. This size will allow you to pack extra clothes, sleeping gear and food. For longer expeditions, you will need to get larger hiking backpacks - 50 to 70 litres, which will accommodate more food supplies, clothing and equipment. For multi-day expeditions lasting more than a week or those taking place in winter, the capacity of the backpack should be over 70 litres. This will allow you to easily accommodate thicker clothes, a sleeping bag, food supplies and other items you need.

Another important issue is the season in which you plan your expedition. This is because it affects the choice of the litre size of the selected backpack. Summer expeditions require less equipment, as you do not need thick clothing or heavy camping gear. A sleeping bag is lighter and clothes are thinner, so you can take a backpack with a capacity of 30-50 litres on shorter summer expeditions. For longer summer expeditions, choose a backpack with a capacity of 50-65 litres.

For winter expeditions, you will need a larger capacity backpack because you will need to take warmer clothes, a thicker sleeping bag or additional equipment. For a weekend trip in winter, choose a backpack with a capacity of 50-65 litres, which will hold all the necessary equipment. Longer, winter expeditions require even larger backpacks - from 70 to even 85 litres - to accommodate larger amounts of food, camping gear for extreme conditions and warm, thick clothing. In this case, the weight of the backpack must be expected to be greater.

It is worth noting that the differences in equipment between summer and winter expeditions are significant. In winter, our equipment weighs more, whereas in summer we can afford lighter and more compact equipment, so the capacity of the rucksack can be considerably smaller.

When planning any expedition, it is also worth considering your travel style. Those who prefer to hike with limited equipment can afford smaller backpacks, while those who prefer more comfort will need more space for additional accessories, clothing for different weather conditions or more advanced camping equipment. It is also important to optimise the space in the backpack well. To do this, compression bags can be used to reduce the volume of clothes and sleeping bags.

Materials and durability - what guarantees the longevity of a backpack?

Backpack material is a key feature to consider when choosing a backpack for the mountains. It should be durable, of high quality and resistant to external factors such as sunlight and moisture. A backpack for the mountains should also be resistant to mechanical factors such as abrasion. What materials are these types of backpacks made of? These include:

polyester,
polyamide,
weather-resistant nylon,
ripstop,
a combination of polyamide and polyurethane, i.e. Endura or Cordura - these materials are highly abrasion-resistant. Most of the materials we have mentioned are quick-drying and even if they do not absorb moisture, it is worth getting a rain cover, the so-called raincover, to protect your clothes and gear from the rain.

Carrying system - comfort and ergonomics on long walks

The carrying system is one of the most important elements you should consider when choosing a rucksack for the mountains. What is the carry system responsible for? It is responsible for distributing the weight on the back and shoulders. It relieves pressure on the spine and other parts of the skeletal system, which is why it is so important. In the case of backpacks for the mountains, the weight of the luggage cannot rest on the shoulders alone. Special reinforced panels on the back are therefore added, as well as hip and chest straps.

A good carrying system contributes to the comfort of the rucksack and consists of the shoulder straps, back, chest strap and hip belt. It is also worth noting that the carrying system is directly linked to the type of ventilation. The carrying system should be adapted to the length of the back. Women's and children's models have different lengths and widths, so men should be cautious of backpacks designed for women, as they tend to have a slightly shorter body and better-fitting straps adapted to the female figure.

The hip belt is important, it should be thick and rigid, The hip belt on a hiking rucksack should be thick and rigid and at the same time soft on the side that will be against your hips. It should cover you about 70-80% so that it covers your hip spines. The backpack's straps should be sewn anatomically and extend around your neck, converging on your chest. This will avoid uncomfortable friction against the neck. An equally important element that we mentioned above is the chest strap, which prevents the harness from slipping off your shoulders. hip belt

Considering the load-bearing system, the backpack should fit snugly against the body. However, from a breathability point of view, the fewer contact points our backpack has with our body, the better the ventilation will be. Even if the rucksack is equipped with a perforated sponge, the contact points with the rucksack will still be wet during more intensive walking. If you want to get rid of this problem, thermal underwear is the best solution.

The rigidity of the structure in trekking rucksacks is usually given by a frame in the form of two aluminium flat bars, which are arranged lengthways or in an X-shape. Also increasingly popular is the mesh-based system, where the backpack practically does not come into contact with the back. This provides great ventilation, but will not work very well for large litre backpacks. We recommend it more for hiking or a one-day trip.

Backpack functionality - pockets, access and additional features

Climbing backpacks should be equipped with pockets. It is thanks to them that you can always have what you need most at hand. The side pockets are used to accommodate a water bottle, while the front pockets are the perfect place for smaller items such as a map, glasses, phone or torch. In some backpacks you will also find a special internal pocket for a water reservoir, which is adapted for transporting drinks. Thanks to a special tube that comes out, you can hydrate yourself not only during a stopover, but also while walking.

An interesting solution to look out for in a hiking rucksack are the carabiners and other types of attachments. With the help of a carabiner, you can attach necessary equipment such as ropes, crampons or other accessories. The straps can also be used to attach a sleeping bag, tent or sleeping pad.

How do I adjust my backpack to my body?

A well-fitting backpack should sit smoothly on the back. The shoulder straps must not stand out and the weight should largely rest on the hips. How do you fit a rucksack properly?

Fill your rucksack with the essentials for your hike.
Determine the size by eye with the adjustable carry system.
Loosen all the straps.
Then put the rucksack on and tighten the straps - don't do it too tightly, pull until you feel a slight resistance. The straps should cover your shoulders and end at the top of your shoulder blades, not your neck.
Fasten the lap belt and pull it tight - it should rest with the centre of your pelvis.
Fasten the lap belt again and tighten it so that it does not obstruct breathing.
Tighten the top straps connecting the shoulders to the top of the backpack. If you tighten the straps tightly, you will be able to carry it better, but bear in mind that this will restrict airflow. Loose straps, on the other hand, mean the weight is located in the back and also less stable.
Finally, check that there is no slack between the shoulders and the straps and that the hip belt is definitely at the right height. If the gap above the shoulders is too large, this could mean you have the wrong size backpack.

Accessories and extras - what's worth having in an expedition backpack?

OK, we've already established what materials backpacks are made of and what litres will work for specific trips, but it's also worth thinking about the accessories that will make your mountain trips easier. What is worth stocking up on?

In order not to get lost in your own rucksack, a good solution is to buy special organisers to help you organise the space in your rucksack. These are small zipped bags with a mesh top. With this solution, you can sort your clothes and other equipment. You'll find them in a range of sizes to keep you perfectly tidy on your excursions.

Another accessory worth getting is a rain cover. Sometimes it is included in the equipment of the backpack, but sometimes you have to buy it separately. The weather in the mountains is unpredictable, so you never know if you will encounter heavy rain. This is where a rain cover comes into play to protect your rucksack and its contents from getting wet. However, it has more uses, as it protects not only from rain, but also from dirt. This is especially important when conditions are really tough. When choosing such a cover, be guided by the size of your rucksack.

Your backpack in the mountains should also include a seat mat. Made of foam, it provides insulation from the ground and protects you from dirt. A small thing, but certainly useful!

What else is worth bearing in mind?

When preparing a rucksack for a mountain expedition, it is extremely important to match its capacity to the type and length of route. The carry system and carrying comfort are equally important. In order to make the best use of the space in your backpack, it is worth knowing how to pack it. We recommend placing heavier items closer to your back and lighter items in the upper and lower sections of the backpack. And don't forget waterproof bags and organisers. Before setting off, be sure to try on and carry your packed backpack to make sure the backpack weight and distribution are appropriate and the carry system is well suited to your needs. This will help you avoid discomfort during your hike. We hope our advice will help you choose the mountain hiking backpack best suited to your needs.

Choose the best mountaineering backpack - S’portofino guide