What is a good size backpacking pack? Your Comprehensive Guide to Finding the Perfect Fit

So, you're itching to hit the trails, breathe in that fresh mountain air, and experience the freedom of the open backcountry. That's fantastic! But before you can embark on your epic adventure, you need the right gear, and arguably the most crucial piece is your backpacking pack. The question on everyone's mind when starting out is: What is a good size backpacking pack? It's a question that doesn't have a single, simple answer, because the "good size" depends entirely on your individual needs, trip length, and what you plan to carry.

Let's break down what makes a backpacking pack the right size for you. We'll delve into the key factors that influence this decision, helping you navigate the often-confusing world of pack volumes and capacities.

Understanding Backpack Capacity: Liters and Cubic Inches

Backpacking packs are typically measured in liters (L) or, less commonly, cubic inches. This number represents the total volume the pack can hold. Think of it like the capacity of a suitcase or a storage bin.

Liters (L): This is the most common unit of measurement. A larger liter capacity means the pack can hold more gear.
Cubic Inches: You might see this on some older packs or from specific brands, but liters are the industry standard.

Generally, a larger liter capacity will correspond to a larger physical pack. It's important to remember that this is just a guideline, and pack design can influence how much you can actually stuff into a given volume.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pack Size

To determine what size backpacking pack is "good" for you, you need to honestly assess your backpacking style and the trips you envision. Here are the primary considerations:

1. Trip Length: The Biggest Influencer

This is the single most significant factor in determining your pack size. The longer you plan to be out in the wilderness, the more food, fuel, and supplies you'll need to carry, thus requiring a larger pack.

Overnight Trips (1-2 Nights): For a short weekend getaway, you likely won't need a massive pack. A smaller capacity is ideal to keep weight down and agility up.
- Recommended Size: 30-50 Liters
Weekend Trips (2-3 Nights): A bit more gear is needed for those extra nights, including more food and potentially an extra layer or two.
- Recommended Size: 40-60 Liters
Multi-Day Trips (3-5 Nights): This is the sweet spot for many backpackers. You'll need enough space for a good amount of food and essentials without going overboard.
- Recommended Size: 50-70 Liters
Extended Trips (5+ Nights or thru-hiking): For longer expeditions, you'll need to carry a significant amount of food and supplies. This requires a larger, more robust pack.
- Recommended Size: 65+ Liters

2. Your Gear: What Are You Bringing?

The type and bulk of your gear play a crucial role. Are you a minimalist ultralight backpacker, or do you prefer a bit more comfort with your gear?

Ultralight Backpackers: If you've invested in lightweight, compact gear (e.g., a small tent, down sleeping bag, minimalist stove), you can often get away with a smaller pack, even for longer trips.
Comfort-Oriented Backpackers: If you prefer a more comfortable sleeping pad, a bulkier sleeping bag, or bring along a few extra "luxury" items, you'll need more space.
Seasonal Gear: Winter backpacking requires significantly more bulky insulation (warm sleeping bags, extra layers, possibly snowshoes or crampons), demanding a larger pack.

3. Body Size and Torso Length: The Importance of Fit

While liter capacity dictates volume, the actual physical size of the pack and how it fits your body are paramount. A pack that is too large or too small for your torso can lead to discomfort, pain, and inefficient weight distribution. Backpacks come in different torso lengths (measured from your C7 vertebra to your iliac crest), and often in gender-specific designs.

Important Note: Always get measured for your torso length by a professional at an outdoor gear store. This is non-negotiable for comfort and preventing injury.

4. Pack Design and Features

Some packs have more external pockets, straps, and compression systems, which can slightly expand their usable capacity or help you organize and cinch down your gear. Don't choose a pack solely based on the idea that you can strap everything to the outside – this often leads to instability and snagging.

General Recommendations by Pack Size

Here's a general breakdown of what you can typically expect to fit into packs of various sizes, assuming standard backpacking gear:

30-50 Liters: Ideal for overnight or very minimalist weekend trips. You'll need to be efficient with your packing and potentially use compression sacks for sleeping bags and clothing.
50-65 Liters: This is a versatile range, suitable for most weekend and 3-5 day trips. It offers a good balance of capacity and manageable weight. Most entry-level and intermediate backpackers will find a pack in this range to be ideal.
65-80 Liters: Best for longer trips (5+ days), winter excursions, or if you tend to bring a bit more gear or have bulkier items. These packs can carry a lot, but be mindful of overpacking and the resulting weight.
80+ Liters: Reserved for extended expeditions, thru-hiking where resupply points are very far apart, or for carrying specialized gear for demanding conditions (e.g., mountaineering). These are large packs and can become very heavy if not packed wisely.

Can You Use a Larger Pack Than You Need?

While it's tempting to get a bigger pack just in case, it's generally not recommended. Here's why:

Temptation to Overpack: A larger pack makes it easier to bring unnecessary items, leading to a heavier pack.
Poor Weight Distribution: If you don't fill a large pack completely, your gear can shift around, making it unbalanced and uncomfortable to carry.
Unnecessary Bulk: A larger pack can feel cumbersome and less agile on the trail.

It's always better to strive for a pack that fits your *typical* needs and then learn to pack efficiently. If you occasionally need to carry a bit more, you can often use external attachments like a sleeping pad strapped to the bottom or a tent strapped to the top, but this should be the exception, not the rule.

Can You Use a Smaller Pack Than You Need?

You can certainly try to cram gear into a smaller pack, but it often leads to:

Difficulty Fitting Everything: You might have to leave essential items behind or resort to creative (and potentially unsafe) ways of attaching gear externally.
Damage to Gear: Forcing too much into a pack can strain zippers and seams.
Frustration: Constantly struggling to fit your gear will detract from the enjoyment of your trip.

The Verdict: What is a Good Size Backpacking Pack?

For most casual to intermediate backpackers in America, a pack in the **50-65 liter range** is an excellent starting point and often considered a "good size." This range accommodates weekend trips and multi-day excursions, offering enough capacity without encouraging excessive weight. However, remember:

If you're primarily doing overnighters or short weekends: Aim for 30-50 liters.
If you're planning longer trips or winter backpacking: You might need 65+ liters.
Always prioritize fit over absolute volume. A well-fitting 60L pack is infinitely better than a poorly fitting 70L pack.

The best advice is to visit an outdoor retailer, get measured for your torso length, try on different packs with some weight in them, and discuss your intended trips with a knowledgeable salesperson. Happy trails!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I measure my torso length for a backpack?

To measure your torso length, you'll need a flexible tape measure. Have a friend help you locate your C7 vertebra (the most prominent bone at the base of your neck) and your iliac crest (the top of your hip bones). The measurement is taken from the C7 vertebra down to the spot on your spine level with the iliac crest. Most outdoor retailers have staff trained to do this for you.

Why are some backpacks gender-specific?

Gender-specific backpacks are designed to better fit the average anatomical differences between men and women. This includes variations in shoulder strap shape (e.g., contoured straps for women to avoid pressure on the chest), hip belt design (e.g., more angled hip belts for women to better cup the iliac crest), and torso length options. While not every person will fit a gender-specific pack better, they are a good starting point for many.

How much weight should I aim for my fully loaded pack to be?

A common guideline is to keep your loaded pack weight at or below 20% of your body weight. For instance, if you weigh 150 lbs, your pack should ideally weigh no more than 30 lbs. This is a general recommendation, and experienced hikers may carry more, but for comfort and safety, minimizing pack weight is crucial.

Why is pack fit more important than pack size?

Pack fit is critical because it determines how the weight of your pack is distributed. A properly fitted pack will transfer the majority of the weight to your hips, which are much stronger than your shoulders. If a pack doesn't fit your torso length or hip structure correctly, you'll end up carrying more weight on your shoulders, leading to discomfort, pain, and potential injury. A slightly smaller pack that fits perfectly will always be more comfortable than a larger pack that doesn't.