How to Choose Your First Hiking Backpack

Volume: How Much Do You Actually Need?

Pack volume is measured in liters, and the common mistake is going too large. A bigger pack always gets filled. The right volume depends entirely on your trip type. Day hiking: 15-25L. Overnight trips with shelter: 30-45L. 2-4 day backpacking: 45-60L. Extended expeditions (5+ days): 60-80L. Most gear-efficient backpackers find that 50-65L covers nearly any 3-season trip when they pack carefully.

Frame Type: Internal vs. External

External frame packs — the iconic aluminum-framed monsters of the 1970s — are still made for specific use cases like hauling heavy loads on maintained trails. For almost everyone today, an internal frame pack is the right choice. Internal frames transfer load to your hips efficiently, keep weight close to your body for better balance, and work across all terrain types. Most modern packs from Osprey, Gregory, and Deuter are internal frame.

The Fit Process: Don't Skip This

A pack that doesn't fit your torso length will cause back pain regardless of how good the pack is. Torso length (the distance from your C7 vertebra at the base of your neck to your iliac crest) determines which size pack fits you. This is different from your height. Many brands make multiple torso sizes. When fitting: load the pack with 15-20 lbs, cinch the hip belt first (hip belt carries 70-80% of the weight), then shoulder straps, then load lifters. The shoulder strap anchor should sit 1-2 inches below your shoulder.

• Measure torso length, not height
• Load hip belt before shoulder straps
• Hip belt should sit on top of hip bones, not around waist
• Load lifters should angle upward at 45 degrees
• Try the pack loaded at the store, not empty

Key Features Worth Paying For

Osprey's Anti-Gravity suspension and Gregory's FreeFloat hip belt are genuinely different from budget options — the air circulation and load transfer justify the cost difference. A sternum strap stabilizes the shoulder straps. Hip belt pockets are worth having; they put snacks and sunscreen at hand without stopping. A floating top lid or roll-top closure allows volume adjustment. Hydration reservoir sleeves and front pouches add accessibility.

Brands and Budget

The sweet spot for quality and value is $120-$200. In this range, Osprey, Gregory, Deuter, and REI Co-op all make excellent packs. Under $100, packs from Kelty and High Sierra are functional entry points. Above $300, you're in premium territory with packs from Arc'teryx, Mystery Ranch, and Kifaru — these are exceptional but not necessary for most hikers. For beginners, Osprey's Atmos AG series is the most universally recommended pack in any category.