Hiking Backpacks, Rucksacks & Bags

From hikes of a few hours to a day or more, a good hiking backpack is an essential piece of kit to carry with you on your adventures. Whether it's a family stroll or a backpacking trip of a lifetime, your rucksack will be right there with you, so it's important to choose the right one.

Walking Backpacks

The first thing to consider when choosing the right backpack for your trip is the length of your hike. For a day hike, a walking backpack between 10 and 25 litres should be fine. This will be big enough to carry your water bottle and a picnic, as well as a packable jacket and sunscreen, so you're prepared for all weather conditions. Of course, you will need to go bigger if you're hiking with kids in tow.

If you're hiking for more than a day then you will need a backpack between 20 and 35 litres. This should be big enough for some basic camping and cooking equipment. But if you're planning a trip that will last three days or more, then you need a hiking backpack of at least 35 litres to carry your extra gear.

Travel Backpacks

The next thing to take into account when shopping for a hiking backpack is where you're going to be hiking. You will need different types of travel backpacks if you're going hiking in the mountains, compared to a hike along the coast, so you need to research the local climate before you go. This is crucial so you can decide how much gear you might need as this will determine the size of your hiking backpack.

If you are going to hike in the mountains, the weather conditions can change very quickly, so warm hiking clothing and a waterproof hiking jacket will be essential.

Waterproof Backpacks

If you know you're likely to encounter wet weather on your hike, then it's sensible to invest in a waterproof backpack to keep your belongings dry. There's nothing worse than having to wear soggy clothing - it's not only uncomfortable, it could make you ill too. You could also pack your kit in drybags inside your rucksack or use a waterproof backpack cover for extra protection.