How to choose the best hiking backpack?

La Cordée

August 14, 2025

6 minutes

Are you looking for a new adventure or to simply renew your backpack? Choosing the right hiking backpack is crucial to be able to carry everything you need in comfort. After all, you will wear it majority of the time. However, finding the right model among all the backpacks offered on the market can be tricky. Here are some key points to help you find your hiking companion. Take notes!

Choose the right size for your use

For a weekend hike: prioritize a 30 to 50 L bag. If you’re used to hiking and you’re a master in the art of packing, a 30 L bag should be more than enough. If you’re a first-time hiker, a bag with a higher volume might be more versatile, especially if your equipment is less minimalistic.

For a one-week hike: opt for a 50 to 70 L bag to be as independent as possible. If you have minimalistic equipment, a 50 L bag should give you enough space. On the other hand, if your equipment is taking up a little bit more space, you might want to go with a 60 or 70 L bag to make sure to bring everything on the trail.

The important features

External frame: a back panel with an external frame will be slightly offset from your back. This allows for better air flow and makes it possible to bring a little more equipment. This frame will offer plenty of support and a good weight distribution.
Internal frame: this type of frame will offer better support than the external frame because of the proximity of the backpack to your back. The weight distribution is easier at the lower back, which is desirable. However, the airflow isn’t as good as the external frame, and you can’t bring extra equipment.
Main compartment: for the less experienced hikers, a backpack with a top-loading main compartment can be challenging. Opt for a backpack with side zippers to fill your bag easily and have access to your equipment quickly.
Pockets: they will be useful to store and organize all your equipment. The expendable side pockets are an asset for water bottles. The pockets on the hip belt will be ideal to store the essentials you’ll need regularly. In short, it’s important to make sure that your backpack is equipped with many pockets for different uses.

caractéristiques du sac à dos de randonnée

Waterproof rain cover: if your bag does not come with a rain cover, it’s very useful to get one. On the trails, nobody is safe from Mother Nature.
Attachment points: the external attachment points will also be an asset to attach a pair of hiking poles, carabiners, a climbing helmet, etc. The higher the volume, the more attachment points you’ll have on your backpack.

How to adjust your backpack

Loosen all the adjustable straps on your bag.
Put on your bag and start by adjusting the hip belt. If the belt is properly adjusted, you should feel less weight on your shoulders. The belt should rest on your hip bones. If the belt is too high, you’ll be uncomfortable in your stomach area. If the belt is too low, it will restrict your strides.
Adjust the shoulder straps. They should be tight enough to hold the bag in the right position on your back and balance the weight. However, the weight should rest mostly on your waist and not your shoulders.
Adjust the sternum strap: it ensures that the bag doesn’t move. You shouldn’t be restricted in your movements or your breathing.
Adjust the angle of your bag according to the trails with the stabilizer straps. They’ll offer greater stability, better balance, and enhanced breathability and even better freedom of movement.

Now that you have a better idea of the important points to keep in mind when shopping for a backpack, you're ready to start looking for your new hiking companion. If you still have doubts, our sales specialists are happy to help you make your choice.

For more advice and to discover destinations and equipment, consult our hiking guide.