By: Andrew Forrest - August 2023
Choosing the best backpack can make all the difference to your walk, and today we are your trail guides on a journey to find the perfect rucksack for your needs.
If you're an avid hiker or a nature enthusiast looking to enhance your outdoor adventures, choosing the right rucksack is of paramount importance. These indispensable companions play a crucial role in carrying your gear and essentials, making your hiking experience not only enjoyable but also efficient and comfortable.
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Manufacturers use the words backpack and rucksack interchangeably, so all the information below relates to both rucksacks and backpacks.
Choosing a backpack or rucksack is akin to finding the right pair of shoes - it needs to fit just right and serve its purpose. Whether it's a short walk around a park or a multi-day hike out in the UK countryside, the choice of a rucksack should reflect your needs and preferences. From running and hiking to outdoor photography, there's a backpack for every occasion.
Once you know what you need for your hike, you need to consider factors such as capacity, waterproofness, compartments and organization options (pockets, panels and zips) to ensure your gear and essentials can be neatly arranged and easily accessible. Adjustable straps, padded back panels, and ventilation systems can enhance comfort during long walks.
By carefully choosing these features and aligning them with your preferences and activities, you can confidently choose a rucksack that fits perfectly and enhances your overall carrying experience. We look at all these features and considerations in more detail after our recommendations.
When it comes to backpacks or rucksacks for walking or hiking in the UK, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. They need to cater for
various needs, carrying loads, differing lengths of walks and budgets.
Whether you're embarking on multi-day backpacking trips, day hiking in the beautiful UK countryside, or just wandering around your local park, we've compiled a list of the top hiking rucksacks for 2024 in the UK across different categories.
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I've been using this one now for most of my 3-season day walks for about 18 months. There is a women's specific version of the Osprey Talon 33, which is the Osprey Tempest 30.
| Features | 4.5
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| Construction | 4.5
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| Comfort | 4.5
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| Performance | 4.5
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| Value | 4.5
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Specs:
| 1.1Kg |
| 65L x 28W x 25D |
| S/M 31L, L/XL 33L |
| Yes |
| Yes |
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Description:
The Osprey Talon 33 is a great daysack with many features and the adjustable back and padding on the hip belt and shoulders make for a comfortable day out in the hills.
At 33 litres, it is large enough for all you need for a day walk in the UK, except for venturing out in winter conditions, where a larger rucksack should be worn.
The padded shoulders and hip belt along with the adjustable back, means you can fine-tune the bag to ensure most of the weight is carried on your hips/legs ensuring a comfortable day out on the hills.
I find the Airscape ventilation allows airflow around my back, keeping it much dryer than many other daysacks I've tried.
There is external hydration access, where you can slide in a water reservoir. I do use the Osprey ones and do find it tight getting a full 3-litre reservoir in, but it does fit. If you use smaller reservoirs than that, and most people do, you should be fine.
There are loads of pockets to store things (zipped under the lid, stretch pocket on the harness, stretch mesh side pockets, front power mesh pocket) along with 2 decent-sized hip belt pockets - these are the ones I use the most for mobile phones, energy bars etc.
Remember though, this along with most rucksacks are not waterproof, so you do need additional protection in the form of a raincover or (my preference) drybags. If you want to find out more, check out How to keep your walking gear dry in wet conditions: Tips for hiking in the rain.
There are compression straps, ice axe loops and walking pole attachments on the outside.
For additional safety, there is an emergency whistle built into the sternum strap, reflective graphics and an LED light attachment point.
The rucksack is a top loader and the lid comes over that to help keep things dry.
Overall, a great rucksack for day walks.
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The Osprey Tempest 30 is the women's version of the Osprey Talon 33, which I've been using now for most of my 3-season day walks for about 18 months. A few friends use this rucksack and they have all given the same feedback to me as I was finding with mine - they love it!
| Features | 4.5
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| Construction | 4.5
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| Comfort | 4.5
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| Performance | 4.5
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| Value | 4.5
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Specs:
| 1.1Kg |
| 61L x 28W x 25D |
| XS/S 28L, M/L 30L |
| Yes |
| Yes |
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Description:
The Osprey Tempest 30 is a great daysack, designed specifically for women, with many features and the adjustable back and padding on the hip belt and shoulders make for a comfortable day out in the hills.
At 30 litres, it is large enough for all you need for a day walk in the UK, except for venturing out in winter conditions, where a larger rucksack should be worn.
The padded shoulders and hip belt along with the adjustable back, means you can fine-tune the bag to ensure most of the weight is carried on your hips/legs ensuring a comfortable day out on the hills.
The Tempest is basically the same as the Talon for men, but with certain elements tailored to make a better, more comfortable pack for women.
The pack shape is deeper and narrower, allowing more movement and increasing stability by lowering the centre of gravity.
The shoulder harness is curved differently, to create an anatomical fit for a woman's neck, shoulders and chest.
The hip belts are shaped and angled to allow a more comfortable load transfer and support.
The rest of the features are the same as for the Talon. The Airscape ventilation allows airflow around your back, keeping it much dryer than many other daysacks.
There is external hydration access, where you can slide in a water reservoir. I do use the Osprey ones and do find it tight getting a full 3-litre reservoir in, but it does fit. If you use smaller reservoirs than that, and most people do, you should be fine.
There are loads of pockets to store things (zipped under the lid, stretch pocket on the harness, stretch mesh side pockets, front power mesh pocket) along with 2 decent-sized hip belt pockets - these are the ones I use the most for mobile phones, energy bars etc.
Remember though, this along with most rucksacks are not waterproof, so you do need additional protection in the form of a raincover or (my preference) drybags. If you want to find out more, check out How to keep your walking gear dry in wet conditions: Tips for hiking in the rain.
There are compression straps, ice axe loops and walking pole attachments on the outside.
For additional safety, there is an emergency whistle built into the sternum strap, reflective graphics and an LED light attachment point.
The rucksack is a top loader and the lid comes over that to help keep things dry.
Overall, a great rucksack for day walks.
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A great versatile comfy rucksack, excellent for those overnight camping trips, multi-day trips, hut-to-hut adventures or even as a daypack on winter hikes. There is a women's specific version of the Lowe Alpine Men's Cholatse 42:47 Rucksack, which is the Lowe Alpine Women's Cholatse 40:45.
| Features | 4.5
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| Construction | 4.5
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| Comfort | 4.5
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| Performance | 4.5
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| Value | 4.0
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Specs:
| M/L 1.77Kg, L/XL 1.83Kg |
| M/L 48-53cm, L/XL 53-58cm |
| 42 Litres + 5 Litres |
| Yes |
| Yes |
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Description:
The Lowe Alpine Men's Cholatse 42:47 Rucksack is excellent for those overnight camping trips. The additional room over a normal daysack provides that bit of extra space for a tent and sleeping bag.
Lowe Alpine redesigned their Air Contour + system, which uses a thermos-moulded back pad and an integrated mesh, which assist in dispersing moisture and heat.
The 2 sizes of pack help with back length, which can be further tailored with a hook and loop back system. The top tensioners and a pull-forward hip belt, ensure the rucksack fits you exactly for that comfier walk, ensuring a weight distribution so that your legs take most of the load.
There is an integrated raincover for when the UK weather turns to rain and pockets to stash away your gear.
There is a HeadLocker axe attachment system and secure TipGripper walking pole attachments on the outside along with daisy chain lash points to attach more gear.
An extendable lid adds another 5 litres if you need it.
All in all, an excellent choice for your overnight camping trips or winter day hikes.
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A great versatile comfy rucksack, excellent for those overnight camping trips, multi-day trips, hut-to-hut adventures or even as a daypack on winter hikes. This is the women's specific version of the Lowe Alpine Men's Cholatse 42:47 Rucksack.
| Features | 4.5
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| Construction | 4.5
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| Comfort | 4.5
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| Performance | 4.5
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| Value | 4.0
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Specs:
| 1.7Kg |
| 43-48cm |
| 40 Litres + 5 Litres |
| Yes |
| Yes |
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Description:
The Lowe Alpine Women's Cholatse 40:45 Hiking Pack is excellent for those overnight camping trips. The additional room over a normal daysack provides that bit of extra space for a tent and sleeping bag.
Lowe Alpine redesigned their Air Contour + system, which uses a thermos-moulded back pad and an integrated mesh, which assist in dispersing moisture and heat.
The 2 sizes of pack help with back length, which can be further tailored with a hook and loop back system. The top tensioners and a pull-forward hip belt, ensure the rucksack fits you exactly for that comfier walk, ensuring a weight distribution so that your legs take most of the load.
The rucksack is built with narrower dimensions, which according to Lowe Alpine is ideal for women or those with smaller frames.
The zipped front entry to the main compartment aids entry, whilst there is an integrated raincover for when the UK weather turns to rain and pockets to stash away your gear.
There is a HeadLocker axe attachment system and secure TipGripper walking pole attachments on the outside along with daisy chain lash points to attach more gear.
An extendable lid adds another 5 litres if you need it.
All in all, an excellent choice for your overnight camping trips or winter day hikes.
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I've been using this as my main multi-day rucksack for quite a few years. It was updated last year with better comfort and improved access and now must rank as the best multi-day backpack around. There is a women's specific version of the Osprey Atmos AG 65, which is the Osprey Aura AG 65.
| Features | 4.5
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| Construction | 4.5
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| Comfort | 4.5
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| Performance | 4.5
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| Value | 4.5
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Specs:
| 2.3Kg |
| S/M 83L x 39W x 36D, L/XL 88L x 39W x 36D |
| S/M 65L, L/XL 68L |
| S/M 43-52cm, L/XL 49-58.9cm |
| Yes |
| Yes |
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Description:
The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is an industry-leading backpack and the Anti-Gravity suspension and the Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt system combine to deliver supreme comfort and a fine-tuned fit, that makes for comfortable multi-day hikes out in the hills.
For me, the main things I want from a multi-day backpack are space, which at 65 litres this provides and comfort/stability as I'm carrying a heavier load. The Anti-Gravity system feels as though it spreads the weight through my hips/legs so that the pack appears to feel genuinely lighter!
The refined Anti-Gravity suspension and the Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt system combine to provide the comfiest fit I've had from a rucksack of this size, which for me is key if it is on my back for several days in a row.
The Fit-on-the-Fly padding for shoulder straps and hip belts allows you to move the padding to a place ideal for you and then it secures with Velcro. The pack feels as though it wants to fall forward, so almost hugs you from behind!
The large suspended mesh panel that covers the back and most of the hipbelt provides excellent ventilation - probably the most I've had from a backpack.
It comes with large, curved, side zip access into the main compartment on both sides and has a zippered sleeping bag compartment.
Hip pockets are reasonably sized as my iPhone fits in comfortably. There are quite a few other pockets, including two in the lid.
For accessories, there are lash points and a Stow-on-the-Go walking pole attachment system/points for the ice axe.
There are stretch mesh pockets on the side for water bottles and an internal reservoir sleeve, and an integrated rain cover for when the weather turns bad.
It's made with 100% recycled materials and is durable - 210D nylon on the main pack and 500D high-tenacity nylon on the bottom.
Overall, an exceptional multi-day backpack with great comfort, ventilation and organisation.
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The Osprey Aura AG 65 is the women's version of the Osprey Atmos AG 65, which I've been using now for most of my multi-day walks for a few years. The build and features are exactly the same, except that the Aura comes in a women's specific fit. The few friends I know who use this version all do so for a reason, they all believe it's the best multi-day backpack there is.
| Features | 4.5
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| Construction | 4.5
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| Comfort | 4.5
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| Performance | 4.5
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| Value | 4.5
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Specs:
| 2.2Kg |
| XS/S 77L x 39W x 36D, M/L 82L x 39W x 36D |
| X/S 62L, M/L 65L |
| X/S 34-43cm, M/L 40.5-49cm |
| Yes |
| Yes |
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Description:
The Osprey Aura AG 65 is an industry-leading backpack and the Anti-Gravity suspension and the Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt system combine to deliver supreme comfort and a fine-tuned fit, that makes for comfortable multi-day hikes out in the hills.
For me, the main things I want from a multi-day backpack are space, which at 65 litres this provides and comfort/stability as I'm carrying a heavier load. The Anti-Gravity system feels as though it spreads the weight through my hips/legs so that the pack appears to feel genuinely lighter!
The refined Anti-Gravity suspension and the Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt system combine to provide the comfiest fit I've had from a rucksack of this size, which for me is key if it is on my back for several days in a row.
The Fit-on-the-fly padding for shoulder straps and hip belts allows you to move the padding to a place ideal for you and then it secures with Velcro. The pack feels as though it wants to fall forward, so almost hugs you from behind!
The large suspended mesh panel that covers the back and most of the hip belt provides excellent ventilation - probably the most I've had from a backpack.
The Aura AG 65 is specifically tailored for women, allowing more movement and increasing stability by lowering the centre of gravity and the hip belts are shaped and angled to allow a more comfortable load transfer and support.
It comes with large, curved, side zip access into the main compartment on both sides and has a zippered sleeping bag compartment.
Hip pockets are reasonably sized as my iPhone fits in comfortably. There are quite a few other pockets, including two in the lid.
For accessories, there are lash points and a Stow-on-the-Go walking pole attachment system/points for the ice axe.
There are stretch mesh pockets on the side for water bottles and an internal reservoir sleeve, and an integrated rain cover for when the weather turns bad.
It's made with 100% recycled materials and is durable - 210D nylon on the main pack and 500D high-tenacity nylon on the bottom.
Overall, an exceptional multi-day backpack with great comfort, ventilation and organisation.
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If you just need a rucksack for short walks for throwing your waterproof jacket/fleece or sandwiches and water in, this Trespass Albus backpack provides space, padded shoulder straps, has 3 zip pockets and is made from a durable material - what else could you want for about £20!
| Features | 3.0
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| Construction | 3.0
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| Comfort | 3.0
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| Performance | 3.0
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| Value | 5.0
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Specs:
| 0.4Kg |
| 47L x 30W x 15.5D |
| 30L |
| No |
| No |
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Description:
Whilst I would not recommend this for long days out in the hills or if you are carrying a heavy load, this Trespass Albus backpack provides 30 litres of space, padded shoulder straps, and has 3 zip pockets, so if you are out for shorter walks and just need something to throw extra layers or your sandwiches/water in, at around £20 you can't go wrong with this backpack.
Trespass is a long-established business and has been making anoraks and jackets since 1938, before expanding into backpacks.
This pack provides 30 litres of space so plenty of room for a waterproof jacket, a spare layer, food and water, along with your hiking first aid kit.
There are 3 zipped compartments, to separate items along with some external elasticated webbing and compression straps to condense your pack.
The padded shoulder straps provide comfort when carrying lighter loads.
If you are carrying heavier loads or heading out for longer days in the hills and your budget allows, I would recommend one of the other rucksacks on our list as they provide adjustable back lengths and hip belts, so that you can fine-tune the pack so that the weight sits more on your hips/legs and provides a much more comfortable walking experience.
That said at around £20, this rucksack provides excellent value and is certainly our number 1 budget option from a well-known brand.
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Excellent camera bag for your hiking adventures.
| Features | 4.0
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| Construction | 4.5
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| Comfort | 3.5
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| Performance | 4.0
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| Value | 4.0
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Specs:
| 1.45Kg |
| 54L x 31.5W x 23.5D |
| 25L |
| 28 x 15 x 25.5 |
| 30 x 15 x 23.5 |
| No |
| No |
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Description:
There will always be a compromise with a camera-specific rucksack, there needs to be protection and easy access for your equipment, but this comes at the expense of leaving little space for your hiking gear. This Fastpack Pro BP 250 AW III Camera Backpack from Lowepro gets it just about right for those shorter days in the hills or summer days when not as much hiking gear is needed.
At 25 litres, it is on the smaller end of daysacks and a lot of that space is for your camera equipment. It is though ideal for carrying your equipment on those shorter hikes, or from car to photo spot or for wandering around towns and villages.
The camera compartment is easily accessible through the QuickDoor access and the padding protects for your gear.
With camera bags, the main thing I have found is ensuring the compartments fit the gear you want to take, so always measure your gear first and ensure it fits in the compartments before buying.
I know I'm not going to get quite the same comfort or adjustability as from my main daysack, but I wear my camera sack for much shorter hikes and am carrying less weight with me. But my main daysack doesn't provide the same protection for my gear as my Lowepro bag does.
The integrated waterproof cover comes in handy as well to keep rain away from your equipment.
Overall, as camera bags go, there is always a compromise as compared to a hiking-specific rucksack, but this is the best one I've found.
| Colour: Black | |
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| Colour: Petrol | |
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Not too many rucksacks are waterproof - most are protected by rain covers or by using drybags. The Ortlieb Atrack 25 is waterproof and claims to be the first that opens like a travel bag offering a new level of convenience for your outdoor adventures and short trips.
| Features | 4.0
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| Construction | 4.5
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| Comfort | 4.0
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| Performance | 4.5
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| Value | 4.0
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Specs:
| 1.47Kg |
| 58L x 28W x 27D |
| 25L |
| Yes |
| Yes |
Features:
Pros:
Cons:
Description:
Most backpacks are not waterproof - they provide some water resistance but your gear is generally protected by a rain cover, drybags or a combination of the two. Step in the Ortlieb Atrack, which is completely submersible and also easy to use and functional.
For the majority of walkers, if you want to keep your gear dry, I would still recommend the many non-waterproof rucksacks, with more features, pockets, comfort and choice and use a raincover/drybags. But, if you hike a lot around water, find yourself crossing rivers or want to use it for other activities such as canoeing, paddleboarding etc. then look no further.
The rucksack is IP67 rated. IP stands for Ingress Protection. The 6 means that there is complete protection against dust and the 7 means that it can stay immersed underwater up to 1 metre deep for up to 30 minutes and remain waterproof.
I have found waterproof rucksacks difficult to use and uncomfortable in the past, but the design of the Atrack with the zip down the back and opening more like a suitcase, means items are easily accessible.
The adjustable back panel accommodates people of differing heights and the padded hip belt fits snugly to allow weight to be supported by your legs. The shoulder straps are also adjustable, but with firm edges, could dig in a bit when carrying a heavier load.
Inside the bag, four zippered pockets allow items that you want to keep secure to be separated from the main area. There is a waterproof seal for drinking tubes, although no separate place inside for your reservoir. There are two drink bottle holders on the outside.
The pack is quite expensive when compared to others, but you are getting a reasonably comfy, waterproof rucksack.
Overall, my choice for a waterproof rucksack and whilst I was testing the 25-litre version it does come in other larger sizes.
Just like Cinderella's glass slipper, a backpack needs to be a perfect fit. Once you have chosen the size of your rucksack or backpack, the main thing I prioritise above all else is comfort. You will be wearing it for the whole walk and chances are it could be quite heavy.
When assessing rucksacks, factors such as your gender, height, and your body's build need to be taken into consideration.
Shoulder straps, chest and waist straps, padded back panels, frames, sizing, and ventilation all play a key part in making sure that your backpack is not only a load bearer but also a comfort carrier.
Well-padded and adjustable shoulder straps ensure an even distribution of weight, alleviating strain and fatigue on your shoulders.
Features such as S-shaped curved backpack straps offer a more comfortable fit and better weight distribution. Contoured straps can reduce the amount of rubbing between your body and the straps and reduce pinch points around your muscles by going around instead of over them.
S-shaped shoulder straps
Wider straps in general provide more comfort as they spread the weight over a wider area, but too wide and they can start to pinch your neck or armpits.
Padded shoulder straps are often made of closed-cell foam, which doesn't compress as easily as open-cell foam or EVA/PEVA foam.
Chest straps and waist straps, otherwise known as sternum straps and hip belts, help distribute the weight across your torso, providing additional support. Think of them as the seatbelts in your car, keeping your backpack secure and stable.
The sternum strap also helps keep your shoulder straps in place so that they do not slip off your shoulders. Most sternum straps are adjustable.
Adjustable sternum (chest) straps
A hip belt helps relieve your back from the weight of the rucksack. Ideally, the hip belt, as the name suggests, should sit on your hips or maybe just slightly above. The hip belt should be padded.
Padded hip (waist) belt
Padded back panels in rucksacks offer comfort and protection for your back, acting as a buffer between you and the bulky items inside your bag.
Most hiking rucksacks will generally have an internal or external frame, which helps keep their structure when empty and helps distribute the weight across your shoulders, hips and back.
Before around the mid-1990s, most backpacks had external metal frames, which were good for carrying heavy loads. They sat a couple of inches away from your back, so helped with ventilation, but the weight was held slightly further away from your body. I probably haven't seen a rucksack with an external frame out on the hills now for 15 years, but some people do still like them.
As materials have got lighter and more technical, most frames are now internal frames and are sewn into the backpack so you cannot see them. They are stiff, but not completely rigid, so have a bit of flex in them. The internal frame provides a much slimmer profile and keeps the weight closer to your back and relatively low, so you maintain a better centre of gravity, which improves stability.
Sizing and fit are the heart and soul of a comfortable backpack experience. A backpack that fits well is a backpack that feels good.
You have 4 main adjustment straps on your rucksack:
Many backpacks are adjustable for different torso lengths, but they do vary between brands and for individual models within brands. Here
your torso length rather than your height is the key measurement. Not all backpacks have them, but adjustable backs increase the chances of
finding the perfect fit.
Some rucksack models come in 2 or 3 sizes, which relate to back length e.g. S/M and L/XL. That gives a range of back lengths for each size. Then, within the backpack itself, many come with an adjustable back, so the back/torso length can be fine-tuned usually by webbing straps or Velcro.
There are also women's specific rucksacks that generally come with a slightly shorter back length but again many are adjustable.
Adjustable Velcro back-length
Adjustable Velcro back re-inserted into the rucksack
How to fit a backpack is an art in itself and will be the subject of a future article, but in summary:
Besides having women's specific sizing, certain rucksacks are also tailored differently to make the pack more comfortable for women.
The pack shape is often deeper and narrower, allowing more movement and increasing stability by lowering the centre of gravity. The shoulder harness is curved differently, to create an anatomical fit for a woman's neck, shoulders and chest and the hip belts are shaped and angled to allow a more comfortable load transfer and support.
Ventilation features in rucksacks, like suspended mesh back panels or foam chambers help keep your back cool and dry. The mesh panels are often suspended above a concave cavity in the internal frame, so creating an air space behind your back, which helps moisture evaporate.
Deuter, one of the main rucksack manufacturers, commissioned a study with the Research Institute Hohenstein that found that the 3-way mesh ventilation in their rucksacks reduces perspiration by 25%. So, besides making you feel more comfortable and less sweaty on your hikes, it also means that you don't have to carry quite as much water with you to keep you hydrated.
One potential downside is that if the air cavity created is too large, then the weight is slightly further away from your body, potentially making you a little more unstable.
I must admit, I never used to have rucksacks with back panels, but since I bought my first one, I have been a convert and do believe they keep me cooler and more comfortable on my walks.
In choosing your rucksack or backpack size, you need to consider the length of your walk, whether you are stopping out overnight, weather conditions and the amount of any safety gear you need.
Different people's needs also differ for example with clothing sizing or whether you prefer feeling hot or cold, but as a rough guide:
If you are out on a day's walk in the UK unless it is winter conditions, 25 to 40 litres is probably your ideal size. My 33-litre Osprey
Talon which I currently use on most of my walks, fits in everything I need apart from on the coldest of winter days, when I'll take a larger
rucksack to carry my crampons and additional layers.
Not all advertised-sized litres are the same though - I believe that some manufacturers count the main body only in their litre calculation, whereas others count pockets as well.
A rucksack's organizational features can enhance your hiking experience and can turn a chaotic, time-consuming pack-unpack routine into a smooth, efficient process.
Whether it's easily accessible compartments, attachment points for walking poles, or a waterproof rucksack cover, these features add functionality to your rucksack and we'll run through the main ones below.
The main compartment is where you'll put most of your gear. They are mainly accessible from the top, but some do have side or front access, usually via zips.
Drawcord on the main compartment on top of the rucksack
The top closing ones are generally closed with a drawcord and then have a 'lid' that comes down over the top, often zippered that provides easier access to items needed more often on the walk. The lid also serves to protect the main compartment from rain.
The lid on the rucksack
There is a technique to packing a rucksack correctly to ensure the right things are accessible and get the correct weight distribution, that we'll cover in a future article.
Backpacks and rucksacks often feature many pockets, some external, some internal, some side pockets, and some back pockets - in fact, many generally have pockets galore!
The waist belt or hip strap often features useful zipped pockets. As these are very accessible, they are useful for mobile phones, compasses or snacks. I have found some of these a little short though on certain rucksacks, making it hard to reach back and get things out of them, so I do try to look for hip belt pockets that stretch around quite a way.
External pockets, such as side pockets are perfect for water bottles or maps. Others have additional front pockets or accessory pockets. These handy pockets are often zippered that provide security for your items.
Zippered pocket on the outside of the lid of the rucksack
The inner lid of many rucksacks often has internal pockets, where you can store wallets, purses or keys.
Zippered inside pocket in the rucksack lid
The inner pocket is generally more secure and often has an additional clip to attach items such as your whistle.
Safety clip inside zippered pocket
Another form of pockets, but generally not sealed, are mesh pockets. Having a front stretch pocket or side stretch pockets provide convenient access to items such as waterproof jackets or trousers.
Back mesh stretch pocket with a waterproof jacket in it
Side mesh pocket with water bottle in it
Whilst walking or hiking you need to stay hydrated. Whilst many people carry water bottles, many people now have switched over to the convenience of using a water bladder or water reservoir. They come in various sizes, are filled with your drink and are put into the rucksack. They come with a tube that attaches to the front of your rucksack, so whenever you want a drink you simply suck on the valve - no more stopping and getting water bottles out.
Some come with supports at the back, so keeping the unit more rigid and making it easier to slide in and out of the rucksack.
The front of the water reservoir (bladder)
The back of the water reservoir (bladder)
I do use them all the time - the only downside I find is that you can't see when the water is going to run out, which is why I carry a light pen with me to sterilise additional stream water whilst I'm out - it weighs next to nothing and makes the water safe to drink.
You can put the bladders/reservoirs in the main compartment or the stretch side pockets, but many rucksacks now come as reservoir/bladder compatible with a separate slot built into the rucksack into which you insert the water reservoir/bladder, making the rucksack hydration bladder compatible.
Water reservoir (bladder) is slotted in the slot in the rucksack between the main body and the back panel
Slot for a water reservoir (bladder) in the rucksack between main body and back panel
Compression straps on a rucksack or backpack come in many different shapes and sizes, but their main purpose is to compact your bag and your gear within it, which brings the weight closer to the frame and your body, which ensures better weight transfer and balance, which means more comfort for you.
Most compression straps are side compression straps and as well as reducing your pack size, they are useful for attaching gear to the outside of your rucksack.
Rucksacks often have a few gear loops or hiking pole attachments on the outside, where you can attach axes, shovels and walking poles. Walking pole attachments are sometimes found on the front of packs.
If you have ever wondered what the patches are on your rucksack with two slits in them, they aren't just decorative... they are lash points that allow you to tie things to the outside of your pack or attach a carabiner.
Typically most rucksacks have a grab handle at the top between the shoulder straps, making it easy to carry when it is not on your back.
Grab handle on the rucksack
A strengthened hole in your rucksack through which you can pass a cable, wire or tube, so your power pack, phone, or hydration bladder can stay inside your rucksack, but you have easy access to the cable, wire or tube on the outside.
The choice of material used to make a rucksack or backpack can affect the durability, weight, and water resistance of your backpack.
Most rucksacks are made from Nylon or Polyester, with various manufacturers having their own branded versions of these. You often see the material described as Ripstop Nylon, which is a special kind of weave, which is more wear-resistant and can stop small tears from spreading.
Many rucksacks have a 'D' or Denier rating, which relates to how heavy a length of material is. So if you are comparing the same kind of material, a higher number (a heavier fibre) will mean it is stronger. These are confused though by the fact that different manufacturers use different backings, coatings and weaves to add further strength and abrasion resistance.
The other parts of your rucksack are the zippers and hardware of your backpack. Quality zippers and hardware are essential for a long-lasting and reliable backpack. YKK and Nylon coil zippers, known for their robustness and self-lubricating qualities, are widely used.
Keeping your walking gear dry in wet conditions is crucial for maintaining the function and longevity of the equipment or any other items stored in your rucksack or backpack and importantly helps with your comfort and safety whilst out on your walk.
Most rucksacks are not waterproof, but there are three main ways to keep gear dry in a rucksack:
Waterproof rucksacks are often more expensive than similar water-resistant rucksacks and there are far fewer rucksack choices available.
They have special coatings and are often heavier than equivalent rucksacks and do not breathe as well, so can make you quite sweaty.
Some rucksacks have an integrated rain cover that you pull over when it starts to rain, or you can buy ones that fit over most rucksacks. I have found them to be a little bit of a pain to fit and can blow around in the wind.
The other option, which I use, is using dry bags inside your rucksack. I have one main dry bag, which is the same size as the rucksack and then a couple of smaller ones inside that separate items and can keep those important things (phone, wallet, purse) very dry as double bagged. The dry bags are very light and generally have a roll-top closure to seal.
Rucksack with same sized drybag and smaller drybag
Whilst most rucksacks are not waterproof, they do provide an element of water resistance. This can be further improved by proofing the rucksack after you have cleaned it.
In a world increasingly aware of the environmental impact of our choices, opting for a sustainable and eco-friendly backpack, made from recycled materials and produced ethically can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly outdoor gear industry.
Recycling is not just sorting your newspapers, plastics and cans anymore between your blue, green and red bins. Rucksacks made from recycled materials like polyester and nylon are making their mark in the outdoor gear industry. By choosing these, you're not just getting a great rucksack, you are helping to reduce the ecological impact of the outdoor gear industry and decreasing the amount of waste that goes into landfills.
Remember, if your rucksack is looking a little worse for wear, you can repair your rucksack to extend its life.
Ethical production practices go beyond just being 'green'. They ensure fair labour conditions and environmentally responsible manufacturing processes. So when you opt for a backpack made under ethical production practices, you're supporting fair wages, safe working conditions, and eco-friendly manufacturing.
Choosing the right rucksack or backpack can make the difference between a comfortable hike and a strenuous ordeal. From comfort and fit to capacity and organization, the perfect backpack caters to your specific needs.
Whether you're a lightweight warrior, a hiker on a budget or an eco-conscious outdoors enthusiast, there's a backpack out there for you. Remember, the start of every walk begins with a well-packed backpack.
Happy walking...
August 2023
