Should I buy online or in-store?

Always buy your first backpack in-store. Fit is too important to guess. Once you know your preferred brand sizing, future packs can be ordered online.

How much should a loaded backpack weigh?

Target 20% of your body weight maximum. A 150-pound person should carry no more than 30 pounds total, including the pack itself.

Do I need a men's or women's specific pack?

Women's packs have shorter torso lengths, narrower shoulder straps, and different hip belt angles. Try both — fit matters more than the label.

What's the difference between hiking and travel backpacks?

Travel backpacks open like suitcases and have more organization pockets. Hiking packs are lighter and more weather-resistant. Choose based on your primary use.

How to Choose a Backpacking Backpack

Choose your backpack based on trip length (30-40L for weekend trips, 50-65L for week-long adventures, 65-80L for extended travel), your torso length measurement, and key features like external access, rain cover, and comfortable hip belt. Try it on loaded with 20+ pounds before buying.

Measure your torso length. Have someone measure from the C7 vertebra (the bump at the base of your neck when you tilt your head forward) to the top of your hip bones. This determines frame size, not your height. Most people are 16-20 inches.
Choose capacity by trip length. Weekend trips: 30-40L. Week-long trips: 50-65L. Multi-week adventures: 65-80L. Don't go bigger than you need — you'll just fill extra space with unnecessary weight.
Test the fit with weight. Load the pack with 20-25 pounds using store weights or water bottles. Adjust hip belt first (should sit on hip bones, not waist), then shoulder straps. 80% of weight should rest on your hips, not shoulders.
Check essential features. Must-haves: external pocket access (avoid top-loading only), rain cover or water-resistant material, padded hip belt, adjustable torso length. Nice-to-haves: side compression straps, trekking pole attachments, hydration sleeve.
Walk around for 10+ minutes. Wear the loaded pack around the store. Check for pressure points, sliding, or discomfort. Your shoulders shouldn't bear significant weight when properly adjusted. If it hurts in the store, it'll be worse on the trail.

Should I buy online or in-store?: Always buy your first backpack in-store. Fit is too important to guess. Once you know your preferred brand sizing, future packs can be ordered online.
How much should a loaded backpack weigh?: Target 20% of your body weight maximum. A 150-pound person should carry no more than 30 pounds total, including the pack itself.
Do I need a men's or women's specific pack?: Women's packs have shorter torso lengths, narrower shoulder straps, and different hip belt angles. Try both — fit matters more than the label.
What's the difference between hiking and travel backpacks?: Travel backpacks open like suitcases and have more organization pockets. Hiking packs are lighter and more weather-resistant. Choose based on your primary use.