How To Choose The Volume Of Your Backpack?

The volume of a bag must be chosen according to the activity practiced, the duration of the hikes or treks, and the type of equipment to bring. We can separate backpacks into 3 categories, depending on their volume:

BACKPACKS FROM 5 TO 20 LITERS

In this category we find:

• Ultralight bags for trail running

• Bags for ski touring

• Bags for hikes lasting a few hours

Trail running bags are designed not to slow the runner down. The smallest formats have a volume of 5 liters, for an empty weight of around 300 grams. Above all, they favor lightness and can contain a supply of water and food.

Ski touring backpacks can also be used as freeride bags. They must be light and not hinder the movements of the skier. With a capacity of around 15-20 liters, and a format designed to be efficient, functional and minimalist, they also adapt perfectly to the urban environment.

For solo hikes of a few hours, a pack of no more than 20 liters is perfect. All you need to do is slip in water, a waterproof jacket, a snack, a first aid kit, and all you have to do is set off.

BACKPACKS FROM 20 TO 35 LITERS

Backpacks with a volume of 20 and 40 liters are recommended for day trips or possibly for a 2-3 day trek with accommodation.

For a day trip, a 20-25 liter bag is recommended. This allows you to bring water and food reserves as well as specific equipment and technical clothing if necessary.

For a day hike with the family, it is advisable to choose a larger bag, because you will necessarily need more equipment. Indeed, even if the children are equipped with bags, these should not represent more than 10% of their weight. It is therefore to the adults that will return the honor of carrying the picnic of the whole family.

For those traveling light, a 30-35 liter bag may be suitable for a multi-day excursion. But beware, a bag of this size can rarely contain the necessary equipment for a bivouac. Indeed, it is difficult to fit your tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad in a 30-35 liter bag.

Some bags, like the Prolighter 30 + 10 from us, have an extension that allows you to add a few liters of load when necessary. A good compromise if you hesitate between two uses and therefore two liters.

>> Read more: How To Organize Your Backpack According To Your Activity?

BACKPACKS OF 40 LITERS AND MORE

Bags with a volume of more than 40 liters are perfect for demanding activities that extend over several days, such as:

• An alpine excursion lasting several days

• An excursion in complete autonomy

In this category, some bags reach volumes of 75 liters!

Here, everything depends on the material necessary for the smooth running of your trek. Before choosing a backpack it is therefore necessary to make a quick assessment of what it should contain in the best and worst cases (rain jacket, bedding, food reserves, spare shoes, etc.) .

If the needs are fluctuating or if one hesitates between two liters, many bags of more than 50 liters are provided with an extension of 10 to 15 liters.

CHOOSE A COMFORTABLE BACKPACK ADAPTED TO YOUR BODY TYPE

Just like clothing, a comfortable backpack should be tailored to the wearer's measurements.

BACK LENGTH

Back length refers to the height of the portion of the bag that will rest directly against the skin. This measurement does not necessarily depend on the size of the wearer: you can be very tall and have a small back and vice versa.

To find the back length you have to measure the distance between the iliac crest and the 7th cervical vertebra. You can measure this length on your own or get help in the store.
Some bags have adjustable backs, which allow you to find the size that suits you best.

BACK SHAPE

Gender changes the build enormously, and that's why there are women's backpacks and men's backpacks. A women's hiking backpack will have a narrower back, especially at the waist and shoulders. A back that is too wide or too small will be a problem especially when carrying heavy loads because the weight will be less well distributed.

Unisex bags can also be found at Cabinzero, with a back adapted to men's and women's standards.

THE LOAD RETURN STRAPS

Placed above the shoulders, they connect the shoulder straps to the back of the bag, and keep the load in place. Once set, the load boosters prevent the weight of the bag from dragging the wearer forward or backward.

THE BACKPACK BELT

A waist belt is essential on a hiking or trekking bag over 20 liters. It guarantees a good balance to the athlete and distributes the load in an optimal way. With ventilated padding, it guarantees good perspiration wicking and maximum comfort.

WHICH BACKPACK ACCESSORIES SHOULD YOU CHOOSE ?

A hiking or trekking backpack is designed down to the smallest detail to follow the athlete in all his adventures. Bag accessories and options improve your comfort and make your bag easier to use. And this does not matter the terrain, the activity or the weather conditions.
For years, we have not stopped improving our bags to ensure you comfort and safety. Here are the main innovations to find on our mountaineering, trekking or hiking backpacks:

• Rain Cover : a poncho integrated into the bag, easy to take out and impossible to lose.

• Variloop system : several adjustable straps which accommodate any alpine equipment
(skis, snowshoes, poles, tent, etc.).

• Zipped suitcase access : a large zip that allows access to the material at the bottom of the bag in no time.

• Rope and ice ax holder : a quick system to keep your mountaineering equipment close at hand.

• Hydration pocket : compartment in which to slip a flexible hydration system that emerges
at the level of the straps.