Have you ever found yourself searching for the perfect hiking backpack, only to be bombarded with numbers like 20L, 30L, and 50L?
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure about what these numbers actually mean. But fear not, we’re here to decode the mystery and help you choose the right backpack for your needs.
These numbers actually refer to the backpack’s capacity and can give you a good idea of how much gear you can bring with you on your hike.
In this article, we’ll dive into what these numbers mean, as well as explore the various types of hiking backpacks available and the gear they can store.
Key Takeaways
- The number on a hiking backpack, such as 20L, 30L, or 50L, refers to its capacity in liters.
- Hiking backpacks with smaller capacities, such as 20-30L, are great for day hikes or shorter trips, while larger capacities are better for longer trips.
- The “plus” capacity on a backpack indicates extra space provided by expandable pockets, compartments, or collars. This capacity is added to the optimum capacity when all straps are tightened.
- Using compression straps can help reduce the overall size of a backpack and make it easier to carry, even if it’s not fully packed.
Contents
Backpack Capacity Numbers Explained
The number you see on a hiking backpack is a measurement of its total capacity, typically measured in liters.
This measurement refers to the volume of space inside the backpack’s compartments, including any pockets and sleeves.
A backpack’s capacity can range from as little as 10L to as much as 90L or more.
Last update on 2023-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
But what exactly can you fit into a backpack with a certain capacity? The answer depends on the type of hiking you’ll be doing and the length of your trip.
As a general rule of thumb, here’s what you can expect from different backpack capacities:
20-30 Liter Backpacks
These backpacks are perfect for day hikes or short trips.
With a storage capacity of 20-30 liters, they can hold the essentials like a water bottle, snacks, a first aid kit, and extra layers of clothing.
They’re designed to be light and compact, so you can move quickly and easily on the trail without feeling weighed down.
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30-50 Liter Backpacks
If you’re planning an overnight hike, a backpack with a capacity of 30-50 liters is a good choice. This size is perfect for carrying enough gear for one or two nights.
You can pack items like a tent, sleeping bag, stove, food, and extra clothing.
These backpacks also typically have more pockets and compartments than smaller daypacks, making it easier to organize your gear.
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50-70 Liter Backpacks
For multi-day hikes or backpacking trips, a backpack with a capacity of 50-70 liters is ideal.
This size can carry enough gear for several days and allows you to bring along a larger tent, sleeping pad, extra clothing layers, food, a stove, and other backpacking essentials.
These backpacks are usually more comfortable than smaller packs because they have better padding and support for carrying heavier loads.
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70 Liter Backpacks (or More)
If you’re planning an extended expedition, such as mountaineering or trekking in remote areas, a backpack with a capacity of 70 liters or more is necessary.
These backpacks can hold everything you need for an extended trip, including a larger tent, sleeping bag, cooking equipment, food, and mountaineering gear.
They’re designed to be durable and comfortable for extended periods of use, so you can focus on your adventure.
45 + 5L: What is it?
Some hiking backpacks come with a “plus” capacity, which is usually indicated by a number in addition to the main capacity number.
You can expand the backpack horizontally or vertically. The extra space can be provided by expandable pockets or compartments, additional collar height, or other features.
For example, a backpack with a capacity of 45 + 5L means that the optimum space is 45L when all the straps are tightened. While the total capacity is 50L when the backpack is filled to its maximum capacity with all the straps loosened.
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This means that all the available space in the backpack, including the expandable pockets or compartments, has been fully utilized.
Here are some example of additional capacity of hiking backpacks:
- Pockets: Many hiking backpacks have pockets on the sides, front, or top of the pack that can be used to carry smaller items that need to be easily accessible, such as a water bottle, map, or snacks.
- Compression straps: Compression straps are used to compress the load and keep the contents of the backpack secure. Many backpacks have extra straps that can be used to attach additional items to the outside of the pack, such as a sleeping pad or tent.
- Removable daypack: Some backpacks come with a detachable daypack that can be used for shorter hikes or as a day bag while exploring around the campsite. This feature adds extra capacity and versatility to the backpack.
- Hipbelt pockets: Many backpacks have pockets on the hipbelt that can be used to store small items that need to be easily accessible, such as a phone, camera, or snacks.
- Floating top lid: A floating top lid is a feature found in many backpacks that allows the lid to be extended upwards to accommodate extra gear. This feature can add extra capacity to the pack when needed.
- Stretch mesh pockets: Some backpacks have stretch mesh pockets on the sides or front of the pack that can be used to carry larger items, such as a jacket or trekking poles, that may not fit in the main compartment.
- Hydration reservoir: Some backpacks have a hydration reservoir pocket and tube port for easy access to water while hiking. This can be a convenient way to stay hydrated without having to stop and take off the backpack.
However, with this type of backpack, the manufacturer will point out clearly for you, not in plus number. For example, you will often see “2L Water Bladder”, which means a hydration reservoir or bag that holds 2 liters (or approximately 67 fluid ounces) of water stored in a hydration compartment or sleeve within a hiking backpack.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the numbers on hiking backpacks represent the backpack’s capacity and are an essential factor to consider when choosing the right backpack for your hiking needs. Understanding the different capacities available, from daypacks to expedition packs, will help you select the right backpack for your specific hiking adventure.
It’s also important to keep in mind the other features that can impact a backpack’s capacity, such as the number of pockets, compartments, and expandable collars.
By considering all these factors, you can find a hiking backpack that meets your needs and allows you to carry all the necessary gear for a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience.