Choosing The Right Backpack Size For A Fortnight Adventure

Choosing the right size backpack for a two-week trip can be tricky. The ideal size depends on factors such as your destination, the purpose of your trip, and your packing style. Generally, a 40L backpack is considered a versatile option for travelling, offering enough space for essentials while remaining compact enough to qualify as carry-on luggage. However, if you're travelling to colder regions or plan to pack heavier items, you may need to size up to a 50-60L backpack. Conversely, if you're an efficient packer or are only bringing a few outfits, a smaller 25-30L backpack could suffice. Ultimately, the best approach is to consider your specific needs and choose a backpack that suits your travel plans.

Backpack capacity

A 25-30 litre backpack is ideal for city breaks and long weekend trips if you pack light. Some very light packers can even travel indefinitely with a bag of this size, although they are in the minority. These bags are not suitable for heavy packers or those who require more than a few outfits. They are also not ideal for travelling in cold environments, as warm clothes are bulky and will take up a lot of space.

A 40-46 litre backpack is suitable for short breaks or extended trips. Most backpackers can travel for months, or even years, with a backpack in this range. It's easy to fit a week's worth of clothes, along with all your travel essentials, and you should still have some room left for souvenirs or travel gadgets. This size is also usually accepted as carry-on luggage, allowing you to skip the baggage claim and avoid extra fees. However, it may be too small if you're travelling to extreme climates and need to pack warm clothes.

A 50-60 litre backpack is ideal for travellers visiting different climatic zones. However, it will likely need to be checked in on planes, and it may feel cumbersome, especially if you plan to use local transport.

Backpacks over 65 litres are generally not recommended for backpackers but are more suitable for backcountry hikers or mountain trekkers who need to carry all their gear for survival. A backpack of this size will be heavier and more unwieldy, even before it's filled. When packed, it can weigh more than 20kg, which is uncomfortable for the average person to carry.

Backpack features

When choosing a backpack, it's important to consider the various features that will affect how the pack works for you. Here are some key features to look out for:

• Frame type: Backpacks can be categorised as having an internal frame, external frame, or no frame. Internal-frame backpacks are the most common type, designed to keep the hiker stable on uneven terrain, and feature a variety of load-support technologies to transfer the load to the wearer's hips. External-frame backpacks are less common, with the structure visible on the outside, and are useful for carrying heavy, irregular loads. Frameless backpacks are ultralight but can be uncomfortable under heavy loads.
• Openings: Most backpacks feature top-loading openings, but some have panel access, allowing you to unzip the main pack bag without unloading it from the top.
• Pockets and compartments: Some backpacks have multiple pockets and compartments for organisation, including side pockets, hipbelt pockets, shovel pockets, and top lid pockets. Some also have a dedicated sleeping bag compartment.
• Removable daypack: Some backpacks come with a removable daypack, which can be useful for shorter trips from camp or supply runs during a thru-hike.
• Hydration reservoir: Most backpacks have an internal sleeve that can hold a hydration reservoir, with portals for the tube.
• Adjustability: Many backpacks offer adjustability features, such as adjustable suspension or interchangeable hip belts, to ensure a comfortable fit for a range of body types.
• Weather protection: If you expect rain on your trip, consider a backpack with a waterproof coating or use waterproof stuff sacks to protect your gear.
• Ventilation: To combat a sweaty back, look for a backpack with a suspended mesh back panel or ventilation channels in the back panel.
• Gear attachment: Features like tool loops, daisy chains, reinforced crampon patches, and extra gear loops allow you to attach gear to the outside of your pack.

When deciding on the features you need, consider the length of your trip, the climate and activities you'll be doing, and the amount and type of gear you'll be carrying. Additionally, think about your packing style—whether you tend to pack minimally or like to bring extras—as this will impact the amount of space and organisation you'll need.

Backpack fit

When it comes to backpack fit, the most important factor is how well the backpack fits your body. The key measurement here is your torso length, rather than your height. To accurately determine your torso length, you'll need a friend and a flexible tape measure.

First, tilt your head forward and locate the bony bump where the slope of your shoulders meets your neck. This is your 7th cervical (C7) vertebra, and it marks the top of your torso length. Next, slide your hands down the ribcage to the top of your hip bones (iliac crest). With your index fingers pointing forward and thumbs pointing backward, draw an imaginary line between your thumbs. This spot on your lumbar is the bottom of your torso measurement. Finally, have your friend measure the distance between the C7 vertebra and the imaginary line between your thumbs—this is your torso length.

Once you know your torso length, you can use this measurement to find the right backpack size for your body. Different brands and models will have varying torso ranges for each pack size, so always check the size chart before purchasing. If you fall between sizes, it's worth trying on each size to ensure the best fit.

In addition to torso length, you'll also want to consider your hip size. Most of the weight of your backpack will be carried on your hips, so a good hip belt fit is critical. To measure your hip size, wrap a tape measure around the top of your hips, hugging the iliac crest. This line is slightly higher than your belt line, so hip belt size differs from pant waist size. Double-check that the waist/hip measurement of your chosen backpack size corresponds to your hip size.

When trying on a backpack, start by adjusting the hip straps. The hip belt should sit snugly on the top of your hip bones, with the padding hugging your hips. Next, adjust the shoulder straps. The shoulder straps should wrap closely around your shoulders, but they should not be carrying a significant amount of weight. Be careful not to overtighten the shoulder straps, as this can cause undue stress on your shoulder, neck, and upper back muscles.

The load lifters, which connect the top of the shoulder harness to an anchor point near the top of the back panel, should be adjusted to a 45-degree angle when tensioned. Again, be careful not to overtighten these straps, as this can cause discomfort. Finally, adjust the sternum strap to a comfortable height across your chest, roughly one inch below your collarbones. As with the other straps, be careful not to overtighten the sternum strap, as this can restrict your breathing and distort the overall fit of the backpack.

Remember, the best backpack for you is the one that fits your body the best. Taking the time to ensure a proper fit will make all the difference when you're out on the trail.

Carry-on luggage

When packing for a two-week trip, it's important to consider what type of activities you'll be doing and what kind of climate you'll be in. Bulky items like jumpers and coats will take up a lot of space, so if you're travelling to a cold place, you might want to consider a bigger bag.

A 40-45 litre backpack is a good size for a two-week trip. It's small enough to be carry-on luggage, which means you can skip the baggage drop-off and collection queues at the airport. It's also big enough to fit a week's worth of clothes, as well as travel essentials. If you're clever with your packing, you might even have some room for souvenirs.

If you're a light packer, you might be able to get away with a smaller bag. A 25-30 litre backpack is perfect for city breaks and long weekends, and can even suffice for longer trips if you don't mind doing laundry. However, if you're travelling to a cold place or you're a heavy packer, you'll probably need to size up.

When choosing a carry-on bag, it's important to consider the dimensions as well as the volume. A backpack that's 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 20 cm) should comply with most airlines' carry-on restrictions. It's also a good idea to check the weight limit, as some airlines can be strict about this.

Some features to look out for in a carry-on backpack include multiple compartments for organisation, padded shoulder straps for comfort, and a waterproof or water-resistant material to protect your belongings from the elements.

Travel vs outdoor backpack

When it comes to choosing a backpack for travel, there are two main types to choose from: travel backpacks and outdoor backpacks. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and travel style. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between travel vs outdoor backpacks to help you decide which one is best for your two-week trip:

Travel Backpacks:

Travel backpacks are designed specifically for travellers and often include features that make navigating airports, cities, and foreign destinations easier. Here are some advantages of travel backpacks:

• Mobility and Freedom: Travel backpacks give you greater mobility than rolling luggage. With a backpack, you can breeze through airports, avoid waiting at baggage carousels, and manoeuvre easily on different types of terrain, from cobblestone streets to sandy beaches.
• Hands-Free Exploration: With a travel backpack, you have both hands free to take photos, hold a map, or enjoy a snack while on the move.
• Versatility: Travel backpacks are versatile and can usually be used as carry-on luggage, saving you time and baggage fees. They can also double as daypacks for short excursions or hikes during your trip.
• Comfort: Travel backpacks often have well-padded straps, back panels, and hip belts, making them comfortable to carry for extended periods. Some even have stowable straps that can be tucked away when not in use.
• Organisation: Travel backpacks often have multiple compartments, pockets, and dividers to help you stay organised. They may also include features like laptop sleeves, water bottle pockets, and lockable zippers for added security.

Outdoor Backpacks:

Outdoor backpacks, also known as hiking or trekking packs, are designed for outdoor adventures and typically offer more space and durability for carrying gear over long distances. Here are some advantages of outdoor backpacks:

• Durability: Outdoor backpacks are built to withstand the rigours of outdoor activities and often use durable materials like nylon, canvas, or polyester. They are ideal if you plan to hike, camp, or engage in outdoor activities during your trip.
• Space: Outdoor backpacks usually offer more space than travel backpacks, making them suitable for longer trips or trips that require specialised gear. They can accommodate bulkier items and often have external attachment points for sleeping bags, tents, or other equipment.
• Support: Outdoor backpacks often have robust suspension systems, including padded hip belts, shoulder straps, and load lifter straps, to distribute weight effectively over long distances.
• Weather Resistance: Many outdoor backpacks have weather-resistant or waterproof materials and zippers to protect your gear from the elements. This feature is especially useful if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors or in wet climates.

Choosing the Right Backpack:

When deciding between a travel or outdoor backpack for your two-week trip, consider your specific needs and travel style. If you plan to move around a lot, visit cities, or engage in light outdoor activities, a travel backpack might be the best choice. If you need more space for specialised gear or plan to spend a significant amount of time hiking or camping, an outdoor backpack could be a better option. Remember to choose a backpack that suits your body type and adjust it properly to ensure a comfortable fit. Happy travels!

Frequently asked questions