Hiking Backpacks – Daypacks & Trekking Bags

How do you choose a hiking backpack?

A hiking backpack is one of the key pieces of outdoor gear. It should carry everything you need without restricting your movement or turning every mile into a negotiation with your shoulders.

When choosing a hiking backpack, three criteria are especially important: capacity, carrying system and interior organization.

The length of your outing, the gear you’re carrying and how self-sufficient you want to be will help you choose the model that’s right for you.

Since 1976, HawaiiSurf has helped surf and outdoor enthusiasts choose their gear before heading out on an adventure.

What hiking backpack capacity should you choose?

Naturally, the question of what hiking backpack capacity to choose comes up before buying.

For a few hours on the trail, a compact backpack will usually carry the essentials: water, food, an extra layer and a few accessories.

For a day hike, a mid-sized pack offers greater versatility.

Multi-day treks generally call for a larger trekking backpack to carry more clothing, food and, potentially, overnight camping gear.

The right capacity is the one that lets you pack what you need without tempting you to bring everything that might possibly come in handy since hiking was invented.

Which backpack should you take on a day hike?

To figure out which backpack to choose for a day hike, start by working out how much gear you’ll need.

A capacity of around 15 to 30 liters can work for many day hikes, depending on the season, conditions and how self-sufficient you want to be.

A 20L hiking backpack is a great fit for many light outings.

A 30L hiking backpack gives you more room to carry several layers, extra water or additional gear.

Choosing between 20 and 30 liters depends more on your outing than on any universal rule.

20- or 30-liter hiking backpack: which should you choose?

A 20-liter hiking backpack prioritizes compactness and is particularly well suited to relatively light outings.

A 30-liter model offers more versatility and makes it easier to carry extra clothing or gear when conditions change.

If you're choosing between a 20- or 30-liter hiking backpack, take a look at what you actually carry on a typical day.

Always buying a bigger one “just in case” often leads to a very scientific phenomenon: the more room your backpack has, the more things mysteriously find their way into it.

Which backpack should you choose for a multi-day trek?

A trekking backpack should let you carry more gear while keeping the carrying system comfortable.

For trips lasting several days, capacity depends largely on how self-sufficient you want to be. Staying in mountain huts requires far less gear than carrying your sleeping setup and some of your wild-camping equipment.

Large-capacity hiking backpacks come into their own here, especially around 40 liters and up, depending on your needs.

For adventures that call for camping gear, round out your kit with our Camping & Vanlife selection.

How do you choose a comfortable backpack?

Comfort doesn't depend on shoulder strap padding alone.

A comfortable hiking backpack should distribute the load properly between your shoulders, back and hip belt, if it has one.

The back length and adjustment options should also suit your build.

The heavier the load, the more important the quality of the carrying system becomes.

A trekking backpack that fits perfectly may feel a little more structured when empty, but become much more comfortable after several hours of hiking.

What is the hip belt for?

On backpacks designed to carry a heavy load, the hip belt transfers some of the weight to your hips.

So your shoulders don't necessarily have to carry the entire load on their own.

For the hip belt to work effectively, it must be positioned correctly and suited to your build.

The shoulder and chest straps then complete the fit, stabilizing the backpack as you walk.

How do you adjust a hiking backpack properly?

Start by positioning the hip belt correctly, if there is one, then adjust the shoulder straps so the backpack sits close to your back without putting too much pressure on your shoulders.

Then adjust the chest strap and any other stabilizer straps included in the design.

The backpack should move with you without bouncing around with every step.

Exact adjustments vary depending on the carrying system, so always follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Why choose a breathable back panel?

During exercise, the area between the backpack and your back naturally builds up heat and moisture.

A hiking backpack with a breathable back panel is designed to improve airflow through different constructions: ventilated foam, channels, or systems that create more space between your back and the backpack.

This ventilation can improve comfort on hot days and during strenuous activity.

It won't eliminate all perspiration - unfortunately, the mountains haven't signed that agreement yet - but it can help you manage it better.

How should you organize your hiking backpack?

Knowing how to organize your hiking backpack improves comfort and makes your gear easy to access.

Heavy gear should generally be positioned to keep the load stable and close to your body, taking the backpack's design into account.

Frequently used items, like water, food, or an extra layer, should be easy to reach.

Gear you'll only use at your destination can be packed deeper inside.

A well-organized pack also makes it easier to find your gear when conditions change.

How should you distribute the weight in a backpack?

Poor weight distribution can make even a perfectly suitable backpack uncomfortable.

Avoid packing all the heavy items far from your back or in just one part of the backpack.

Aim for a stable, balanced load, in line with the manufacturer's recommendations and the type of backpack you're using.

Items that could shift should also be secured properly with the compression straps, if the backpack has them.

What should you pack for a hike?

What you pack always depends on the terrain, weather, and duration.

For a typical day out, you'll generally need water, food, extra clothing, and various items of gear suited to the conditions.

Complete your outfit with our Men's Outdoor Clothing and Women's Outdoor Clothing.

For longer or more remote routes, the contents should naturally be adapted to the level of self-sufficiency required.

Men's or women's hiking backpack: what are the differences?

The terms men's hiking backpack and women's hiking backpack can refer to carrying systems or dimensions suited to different body shapes.

Some models designed for women offer back lengths, shoulder straps or hip belts specifically designed for them.

However, your individual body shape matters more than the label.

The best backpack is one that fits your back and hips and suits your activity. If possible, try several adjustments and models.

How do you choose a lightweight hiking backpack?

A lightweight hiking backpack helps reduce the total weight you carry, which is especially useful on long distances.

However, weight shouldn’t be considered in isolation.

An ultra-light backpack that’s uncomfortable under the load you actually carry can quickly become a poor choice.

So look for a balance between light weight, durability, capacity and a quality carrying system.

Which pockets are useful on a hiking backpack?

Side pockets usually let you keep a water bottle or certain accessories within easy reach.

A top pocket can hold small items you use regularly.

Hip belt pockets are handy for keeping food or accessories within easy reach without taking off your backpack.

Some models also have a front or bottom opening that makes it easier to access the contents.

The number of pockets isn’t an end in itself, though: a simple setup you know well is often more effective than turning your backpack into a storage tower.

Backpacks and hydration

Access to the water should stay easy while walking.

Many backpacks have side pockets for carrying water bottles. Some are also compatible with a hydration bladder and have a hose port.

Your choice mainly depends on your habits and the length of your outings.

Whichever solution you use, plan to carry enough water for your route, the temperatures and the opportunities to refill.

Which backpack should you choose for camping and bivouacking?

When a hike stretches into an overnight stay outdoors, you need more capacity.

The backpack must then be able to carry the extra gear needed for sleeping, clothing and your desired level of self-sufficiency.

Trekking backpacks are generally more structured to keep them comfortable to carry as the load increases.

Explore our Camping & Vanlife range to round out your gear for adventures that continue after sunset.

How do you protect your backpack from the rain?

Some backpacks use materials or treatments that offer a degree of moisture resistance, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're fully waterproof.

Depending on the model and conditions, a rain cover can provide extra protection.

For items that are particularly sensitive to water, an individual waterproof cover can also be a good idea.

Always check the backpack's specifications to find out exactly how protective it is.

How do you care for a hiking backpack?

After your trip, empty your backpack completely and remove any dirt that has built up.

S'il it's damp, leave it to dry in a well-ventilated place before putting it away.

When cleaning your pack, follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid damaging the materials, finishes or carry system components.

Also regularly check the buckles, straps and fastenings, especially before a trek or a multi-day trip.

Build a complete hiking kit

Your backpack should work with the rest of your gear.

Put your outfit together with our Men's Outdoor Clothing and Women's Outdoor Clothing.

If your hike turns into a multi-day adventure, round out your gear with our Camping & Vanlife selection.

Explore these collections in our Outdoor range and build up the right kit for your adventures.

L's HawaiiSurf expertise since 1976

For fifty years, HawaiiSurf has helped surf and outdoor enthusiasts choose their gear.

Whether you’re looking for a hiking backpack, a 20L, 30L or 40L hiking pack, a trekking backpack, a lightweight, comfortable hiking pack, a model for a day hike, or advice on choosing a backpack for a multi-day trek, our selection has you covered for all kinds of outdoor adventures.