Backpack Capacity Guide for Hikers

Buying a backpack online can be a bit challenging; you can never know for sure what size the backpack is. You might find yourself questioning, “Is this backpack too small or too big for my needs?”- This is where our backpack capacity guide comes in. Whether going on a one-day hike or a multi-day trek, it is always nice to know what or how much a backpack can store. If you, like us, dread being unsure while shopping online, this guide is for you. 

We are not only just going to look into standard backpack capacities; we also have a few suggestions for you to make the hassle a little easier. 

Backpack Capacity – Explained!

So, what is backpack capacity? You might say it’s the number of items a backpack can hold, and you are not wrong. It is basically the volume of space a backpack can hold; in other words, it is the measure of all the main compartments of the backpack and is usually measured in liters (L) or cubic inches (in3). 

This measurement helps you understand how many items your backpack can hold. A higher volume means more space for your equipment, but it also means more weight to carry. With a balanced approach, you can choose the perfect backpack for yourself.

Why Backpack Capacity Matters?

Your backpack is your lifeline when planning a hiking trip or a weekend away. After all, you’ll be lugging it everywhere, so it needs to be a perfect size – big enough to store all your essentials and small enough to be taken everywhere you go.

How to Measure Backpack Capacity?

Sometimes, you might want to measure the bag capacity of a bag you own to make an informed decision, but how can you measure bag capacity? The simplest method involves measuring your backpack's length, width, and height using a measuring tape or ruler. Once you have the measurements, use the following formula to get the result:

1. Volume = Length X Width X Height

This way, you can calculate the volume in cubic inches. However, if you need to measure the volume in liters, divide the result you got after using the above formula by 1000.

Backpack Capacity Guide

At Everki, you’ll find backpacks with a wide range of capacities, and for the sake of simplicity, we have divided these capacities into categories. Here is an overview:

Small = 11 – 19 L

Medium = 20 – 29 L

Large = 30 – 39 L

XXL = 40L & above

Please note that this categorization by no means is a standard, and we have just done so here for the sake of simplicity. Refer to our comprehensive Backpack size guide to learn more about our backpack sizes.

What Capacity Bag Do I Need?

What capacity backpack do you need? Here is a guide to help you out. 

Small Backpacks (11 – 19 L)

Small backpacks which are under 19 L can be used on a daily basis. Such backpacks are ideal for light loads and can carry a laptop of about 13 inches.

Medium Backpacks (20 – 29 L)

This is usually the standard the standard size and is ideal for students. It can carry laptops up to 16 inches.

Large Backpacks (30 – 39 L)

30 – 39 liters is the best backpack capacity for traveling, especially for weekend travels. 

XXL Backpacks (40 L & Above)

These large-capacity travel backpacks are ideal for hikers or campers, as they have ample space to carry almost everything, from extra clothes to camping gear and more. 

Choosing the Right Capacity for Your Trip

Day Hikes

For short day hikes, a backpack with a capacity of 20 to 29 liters is usually sufficient. This size allows you to carry essentials like water, snacks, a jacket, and sunscreen.

Weekend Trips

When hiking for a weekend, you'll need a larger capacity backpack, ideally between 30 and 39 liters. This capacity accommodates extra gear such as a sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and additional clothing.

Multi-Day Treks

For multi-day trek adventures, choose a high-capacity backpack of 40 liters or more. This size can handle all your camping and cooking gear, extra clothing, and other necessities for a multi-day trek.

Looking for a hiker’s dream large-capacity backpack? Check out ContemPRO 117 from Everki. This 42 L backpack has a water-resistant weather cover, durable zippers, multifunctional side pockets with a water loop, and an ergonomic back panel and chest straps, which keep you comfortable during your travels.

Features of High-Capacity Travel Backpacks

The best large-capacity travel backpack should have the following features.

• Multiple compartments for organization
• Comfortable, adjustable straps
• Durable, weather-resistant materials
• External attachment points for gear

Factors Influencing Backpack Capacity for Traveling

Having the right backpack is like having a reliable companion for your adventures. Whether you are going for a stroll or for a week-long trek in the mountains, choosing the right backpack capacity can make all the difference. Here are a few factors that can influence your choice: 

1. Duration of Your Hike

The first step in choosing the right backpack capacity for your hike is determining the amount of time you’ll be spending in the mountains. This duration directly impacts the size and the capacity of the backpack you need.

• A Few Hours: 

If you are going for a short hike that is going to last only for a few hours, a backpack with a capacity of 10 to 25 liters will be sufficient. This size lets you carry all the essentials you need, such as a water bottle, some snacks, a jacket, and sunscreen. You can even keep a laptop and some other essential items that you might need in this backpack. 

• A Day: 

For a full-day hike, it is better to choose a backpack with a capacity of around 20 – 30 liters. This backpack gives you enough space for additional gear, snacks, and weather-specific clothing.

If you are looking for a good large-capacity backpack for travel, have a look at Studio Expandable Eco from Everki. This 26 L eco-friendly backpack has an expandable design and is made from 18 recycled plastic bottles. It even has dedicated compartments for laptops and tablets. This sustainable backpack combines style and comfort, making it perfect for travelers. 

• A Weekend: 

If you’re planning a weekend hike, you’ll need a backpack with a capacity of 30 to 35 liters, which can accommodate gear for camping and cooking if you’re not staying in huts or lodges.

• Three Days or More: 

We recommend using a backpack of 40L capacity for hikes lasting three days or more. This capacity gives you enough room for extra clothing for unpredictable weather, as well as camping gear and food. 

2. Destination and Timing

Once you know the number of days you are going to spend hiking, you need also to consider the destination and the timing. Different environments and weather conditions require specific gear, which can affect the backpack capacity you’ll need.

• Mountains: 

Mountainous areas can have unpredictable weather; temperature can drop, winds can pick up, and rain can replace sunshine quickly. Hence, it is essential to choose a backpack with ample space for a windproof jacket, extra clothing, and waterproof items.

• Coastal Areas: 

Much in a similar way, coastal weather can be equally unpredictable, with sun, heat, humidity, rain, and fog all possible in a single day. So, your backpack should have room for layers and protective gear.

• Deserts: 

Although the desert is usually hot during the day, the temperature can significantly decrease during the night. This means you’ll need to pack both light clothes for the day and warm layers for the night, and choosing a bag accordingly is going to be crucial.

3. Type of Gear Required

The type of gear you’d need also influences the choice of your backpack. For example, you might only need some snacks, a water bottle, and maybe a jacket for a day’s hike, but you might need cooking equipment, a sleeping bag, and extra clothing as well for a multiple-day trek. So, think of what you need first and then make a decision. Be sure that your bag has multiple compartments to hold all your essentials.

4. Personal Packing Preferences

Lastly. Your personal packing style can also directly influence your backpack choice. Some hikers prefer multiple compartments for organized packing, while others might opt for a single large compartment to maximize space. Consider how you like to pack and choose a backpack that aligns with your preferences.

Optimizing Storage: Packing Tips

To make the most of your large-capacity backpack for travel, consider these packing tips:

1. Use packing cubes to organize items
2. Place heavier items at the bottom
3. Keep frequently used items on the top or in easily accessible compartments
4. Use external straps and pockets for additional gear

Find the Best Fit with Everki

Whether you are going for a day hike or a multi-day trek, stay well-prepared and comfortable with the best large-capacity travel backpacks from Everki. 

So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Everki today and discover the best fit for your next adventure with their eco-friendly backpacks. 

 

FAQs

Q: What capacity backpack is ideal for a weekend trip?

A: Although the right backpack capacity depends on your specific packing preferences and the destination, we recommend a large capacity backpack between 30 to 35 liters for a weekend trip.

Q: Are high-capacity backpacks suitable for all types of hikes?

A: Although high-capacity travel backpacks are versatile and have much space, their suitability depends on the hike's duration and the amount of gear you need to carry.

Q: What can a 40 L backpack hold?

A: A 40 L backpack can hold:

• 2L water bottle
• A hoodie or jacket
• Food for 5-6 days
• A sleeping bag
• A cooking pot and camp stove with fuel
• Extra clothing