How to Choose a Backpack for Hiking and Backpacking

[@camilladamlund9513]

One of the things I really like about your channel is that it never comes across as though UL is the only way to backpack. As someone who is an intermediate hiker but a beginner backpacker on a tightish budget, it can feel really discouraging when you see all these hiking/backpacking gurus on youtube with their UL set-ups. Carrying more than 10 pounds on your back doesn't make you less of a backpacker.

[@BackpackingTV]

Hey Camilla, sorry for the late response to your great comment! So glad to hear you find the channel helpful! More tips, trips and backpacking content coming your way over the coming months :) Cheers!

[@bobabooey4537]

I find a lot of hikers show off with UL gear. It also seems competitive between them. Who has the best, the lightest etc.

Maybee they are right. After few trails I appreciate everything that is not heavy on my back

[@Doile911]

Watch this channel and Miranda at the "rei" channel, she makes it understandable and a real experience.

[@chronometa]

Every hobby has gatekeepers and gear heads lol

[@donreinholz8121]

I think sturdy straps and good padding are a must. Some packs are expandable at the top which is nice.

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

Good advice! I use a Eberlestock F65 Little Big Top pack for shorter 3 day trips and an Eberlestock G4 Operator pack for longer 5-7+ day trips, which also has a removable top lid that doubles as a fanny pack. I also wear a Hill People Gear chest pouch which I carry my "PPE", a basic survival kit, cell phone, binos, etc. Being an Army Veteran, I still have that mindset which is why I gravitate toward military-style packs with natural colors, vs the blues, yellows, etc.

[@BackpackingTV]

Sounds like you got your system dialed! I'll have to check out Eberlestock, I haven't used them before.

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

@@BackpackingTV Thanks, again you provide great reviews and advice, along with fantastic trips!

[@AlejandroP1980s]

Hey assassin's Creed ezio do you know of any made in USA waterproof and not to big but not to small backpack

[@AlejandroP1980s]

Also which color best brown gray black or military camo

[@maxviking3210]

I totally understand UL backpacking. But for me i don’t get crazy about UL. I decide what I want UL to get the total weight down, and to be able to have either more things or more comfortable things. I try to find UL things that give me a possibility to for example get a little heavier backpack (yeah I know the secret three.. but I don’t care ) that is more comfortable. For me comfortable straps (but a little heavier) and lighter gear in the backpack is a perfect combination. Thanx for a great video.

[@BackpackingTV]

You and me must be the same person

[@maxviking3210]

@@BackpackingTV well you also have a very Swedish name so close enough 😂 👍🏼

[@eduardokobs8979]

Cool video! I found my perfect backpack, 40+10 with removable lid. Very versatile and confort with load 35lbs (16kg)

[@bluegrass4840]

I'm getting started, but I'm the opposite. I want the smallest bag that can carry my stuff. Probably going to get all my stuff first lay it out and decide the pack.

[@whengrapespop5728]

Quick tip if you’ve got a big backpack; instead of finding more items to fill it with, take your sleeping bag out of its stuff sack and “fill” the empty space with your sleeping bag instead. No extra weight, fills the backpack, and if you ever need more space (winter, etc.), you can use your stuff sack and get back that space.

[@WannabeAlpinist]

Cool video, unless its an 8000m peak, a 65L liter should be adequate. The 85L is unnecessary for 99% of trips. Thanks for the content. Have you ever visited Colorado? I film mountaineering/hiking videos out here. Keep at it!

[@BackpackingTV]

I agree. 85L is overkill for almost all backpacking scenarios, unless you extra non-backing equipment like climbing gear, mountaineering gear, a packrafting setup, or a bunch of camera equipment. And yeah, I was born in Colorado. I love it there. We filmed in Estes Park last year!

[@WannabeAlpinist]

@@BackpackingTV Right on!

[@andrewbrock9337]

Thanks for the video - I found it really useful as someone who is about to get into this.

[@thealiev994]

Thanks for the great clips. ... Just a quick tip I noticed the black color of fabrics in the video doesn't look black. Your camera needs an IR cut filter. So the black color looks black; not purplish or the tint of magenta ... you can try Hoya. I have one and it works great.

[@beejoy6153]

My first and only (so far) backpack is a 70l. I love this thing! I am 5'7 with a long torso, so the 40l - 65l just didn't work well for me. Ironically, my Hubby is 6'1 and also uses a 70l. Says a lot about torso size, doesn't it?! Any who, for longer trips, 5-7 days, I can carry everything (including a bear canister) with my total weight coming in at under 40lbs and for shorter trips, 2-4 days, I am carrying right around 30lbs...depending on my "culinary backpacking meals", of course ;-). I really wanted a smaller backpack, like 40l -55l, but they just didn't fit my body correctly. On days when I am nearing the stretch of a long hike, I tend to look tuckered out because of altitude, heat, exhaustion, etc. and I occasionally get those "expert hikers" that love to tell me "Sweetie...you need a different backpack and to also lessen that heavy load". UGH....I usually move on and ignore "their opinions" knowing that I am reaching another milestone goal despite how pooped out I might look! We all need to "Hike Our Own Hike" and hopefully by others viewing this informative video, they will stick to that motto too. Happy Trails!

[@MarenWeiers]

this is very helpful

[@caitie226]

@@GetUpTheMountains He's speaking specifically about beginners, and I think what he says is true. If you've got a set up that works for you and you're experienced enough to understand the pros and cons of your options then that advice isn't for you.

[@cwesley2005]

Osprey expos 58 is so freaking comfortable and so good!

[@sandroairj]

Great video man! Love the style. And also thanks for the useful advices.

[@Tiger24kicks]

I've recently picked up the Nike ACG Karst and Nike SF Recruit they aren't to big and very well made I may get a North Face that's very big for camping trips.

[@BackpackingTV]

Excellent! Sounds like solid choices.

[@nrrve.1]

Hi what do you think about Osprey bags? Specifically the Osprey Rook 65ltr for a beginner?

[@jad2484]

Osprey packs are the Cadillac of backpacks. My wife and I have used several different packs from super chepo aluminum external frames 70s packs when we first started backpacking 17 years ago to our current Osprey Xenith/Xena series packs. I run a Xenith 88, my wife runs a Xena 85, and our 14 year old daughter runs a Xena 70. They are the cats meow for multi day hikes. 45lbs feels like 35lbs. I know there's many upon many UL backpacking snobs out there that would loudly poo poo our set up, however we are very comfortable at camp and eat very well when we're out in the wilderness. When we go on a 5 day trip we bring enough survival provisions to last at least 30 days.

[@batwithglasses]

Check out if you haven't already Boreas packs out of Sanfransico, amazing quality!

[@BackpackingTV]

That's new to me. Thanks for the tip!

[@batwithglasses]

@@BackpackingTV anytime👍

[@batwithglasses]

@@BackpackingTV Damn Sam... They appear to have gone belly up..such a shame, they made amazing packs. Sorry for the misinformation.. Here's a link explaining.. amp.reddit.com/r/onebag/comments/9gagt9/boreas/

[@ahilbilyredneksopinion]

I had ta start witha 85l just because I had ta go budget and that ment synthetic and bulky....now I'm starting ta build my lightweight pack,but it's spensive.....lol

[@kt3369]

What is the best size for a 6 foot 155lbs guy for a 2 years continues trip?

[@nevadahigh365]

Ive been backpack shopping for months with endless hours searching internet. I want to replace my tired out 14'ish year old Kelty Day hike style backpack.I CANNOT FIND ANYTHING THAT OFFERS THE FEATURES IT DOES THAT I NEED! Its use is for extreme outdoor motorized travel (specifically snowmobiles, but dirtbike/quads/sxs as well) the purpose of the bag is to carry outdoor (not hiking essentials) like gloves, layers, tools, recovery equip, survival/first aid, food/liquids, camera gear of all kinds, goggles and more. All these items are accessed multiple times throughout a day so need to be individually easily and quickly accessed without unloading 1/2 the bag everytime in inclimate weather. It needs a full size main compt for large gear, a mid--size expanded 2nd pouch (not a flush pouch for flat equip like pjones/ipads). A 3rd stacked 1/3 size expanded pocket. Full length zippered pouches on each side as well as water bottle pouches. External straps to secure outside gear like poles or rolled up coats, etc. Shoulder straps with chest clip, but a waist strap that is load bearing w padded waist (not a chinsy 1" nylon strap) rugged construction and waterproof. This is what i use now, and is nowhere to be found! These single main compt "stuff/duffel" style packs are not functional at all! And THAT IS ALL ANYONE MAKES ANYMORE. This search has become maddening!

[@kezhanakhro6267]

For 5 days which l should I go 50,55,60,65, or 70 lt?

[@NickandRachel]

Thanks for sharing. Like the thumbnail

[@BackpackingTV]

Well thank you!

[@NickandRachel]

@@BackpackingTV you're welcome! We enjoy making outdoor content as well

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

Mystery Ranch...there is no substitute. ❤

[@BackpackingTV]

I'm a fan.

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

@@BackpackingTV So I'm looking online to see what I can get for some of the 20 packs I own that I'm planning on selling off. Instead of selling any of them, I end up buying another Mystery Ranch; Their Coulee 40. I now own 4 Mystery Ranch rigs. #TheStruggleIsReal

[@altaccout]

Say what you want, nothing beats a 60L barrel with straps tied to it.

[@MarenWeiers]

damn straight

[@fanrik9583]

I'm totally new in backpacking, but my upcoming exchange semester in Canada (Victoria BC) seems like the perfect opportunity to get started. I don't really have much of the gear yet, and I'm trying to hold off buying stuff until I get there I am however considering getting a backpack beforehand. I really want to get a 40L, since I then will be able to bring it on my flights as hand luggage. I'm afraid however, that I will end up ditching it as soon as I get into trips that are longer than a weekend. Thoughts?

[@Locke3OOO]

NGMI

[@fanrik9583]

@@Locke3OOO ?

[@cesar191979]

So helpful! Thanks

[@BackpackingTV]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jerrybecker7910]

I could use more mirth in my life. Liked. Subbed.

[@X_explorer]

Cool vid!

[@changingaltitude5012]

Wow nice n informative video. I created a video on same topic but differently presented with other necessary information.

[@mikaelflink1145]

i have a 65 +10 liter but i cant fit everyting ;D my biggest "what i dont really need thingy" is a powerbank haha i was thinking about 100 liters maaaybe a 85 liter. what do you think ? haha

[@evanlyniris9374]

I've been looking for the right kind of backpack for years and havent been successful so far. I'm rather skinny and my hip and collarbones protrude quite a bit. As a result, whenever I'm backpacking, I get painful thick red welts within a few hours. I've tried different adjustments, different backpacks, and different padding, but nothing seems to help. Do you have any suggestions?

[@carolynevans8826]

I couldn't even carry a 50L backpack. I'm 55 and would find that to heavy. Was looking for 30 - 35 L

[@fishman649]

I went to a store and loaded it with weight it changed my whole perception on backpacks

[@Jaigupta_]

Hi people, can somebodyrecommend me the best pick ignoring the cost of the backpacks. Lets say you have tons of money... then to hike in the himalayas where trips can go upto 5 ~12 days , i wish to buy a durable, comfortable and accessible backpack with good looks, form and fucntion. Here's my list , which one would you pick ? 1. Gregory alpinisto 50 2. Northface Terra 55 3. Mystery Ranch Terraframe 50 4. Moutain hardwear PCT55 5. Osprey Aether 50 6. Deuter Aircontact Ultra 50 7. Osprey Kestrel 58 What would be your choice ? I need to gift one, can you help me chose one ?

[@oroborusrider]

85l multi dayhike and 36L for my dayhike pack (i always pack waaay tooo much)

[@BackpackingTV]

85L! Burly!

[@SoundsWithin]

Thanks for this video, what is the bag you reviewed?

[@BackpackingTV]

I believe you're referring to the Mystery Ranch Terraframe?

[@axlandersson]

I get the bias towards 40-60L packs and the aim to stay light. However, the argument that "if you have a bigger bag you will fill it" is silly, and needs to stop. Any conscientious individual will be able to pick the necessary gear first and then fill the bag, assuming this can be done with any given bag keeping it's structure and function. Here in Sweden the norm is to go bigger with bags, but this might of course be the climate - needing warming sleeping bags, pads etc. Not everyone can afford multiple bags, so going with a bigger one makes more sense, especially for beginners who don't know exactly what gear they need.

[@BackpackingTV]

I can't tell you how many people I've backpacked with that just fill their backpack to whatever capacity the bag is. If they have extra room they take extra stuff, not knowing how much they'll be affected by it down the trail. The constraint often helps most people. But I hear what you're saying and if you can exercise that restraint than by all means get the bigger bag and have more options for yourself! Having multiple backpacks is totally a luxury!

[@axlandersson]

@@BackpackingTV yeah I get that, and I understand why that happens. I just think it doesn't hold as an iron law, and can cause some confusion. I think people who are watching videos like yours are likely to be more mindful and willing to adhere to good packing principles, but you're the expert there. I'm just making an argument for those of us who need / want one bag that can cover many climates, weather and scenarios! Thanks for the reply. 🙏

[@rjflippo]

6’5” and 265… I really don’t mind a heavy pack. Looking at Kelty Coyote 105 so I can use 65L on a trip, or 105L in a shtf scenario.

[@mikeross8506]

Hi, would you recomend the deuter v40 pro? Its on sale here in Philippines for $100.

[@garyhuang317]

Can you add the word in the video?

[@lukeclayton-holland1564]

Aether 65 litre, good?😊

[@nbidnm]

Why am I putting poop in my backpack?

[@butz-ne4bu]

To save it for later

[@marcom647]

There are parks/trails where you are not allowed to leave ANYTHING behind. What you take in, you must take out. Yes, including poop.

[@whengrapespop5728]

@@marcom647I’m glad I live in a country where everyone respects nature enough so that it never came to a point where we needed those restrictions. Leave-no-trace is a part of our culture, and there’s nothing wrong (here) with digging a hole and letting nature do its thing.

[@da2hampton]

Backpackers put their fudge in their pack? I don't want to be a fudge packer...

[@microgreensgrower3946]

ALWAYS put your 'bathroom' items in a ziplock bag no matter where it is placed in your backpack!

[@starshot5172]

"Literage" 😂

[@bradh6185]

What's wrong with just leaning up against a tree to take a crap and leaving it and the toilet paper? Toilet paper is pretty biodegradable isn't it?

[@jeroenjegerings]

Bacteria in our poop is al lot different than that of wildlife. It can make an ecosystem sick. It's important to shit in a hole and cover it with sand. There is special biodegradable toilet paper you can bury along with it.

[@whengrapespop5728]

Oh my, at least dig a hole for your crap and toilet paper

[@mightyredstallion]

Ask the Indians what they used. Or maybe some Mexican's that just crossed the Sonoran desert on foot to get across the border. Most that I saw carried a milk jug filled with water. The Indians would probably call that kinda spoiled. We get carried away really. The real packers, the one's who lived by it, not sure if they'd go the same route.