What size hiking pack should I pick?
Contrary to what you may think, there is no ideal hiking pack size that fits all. The volume of pack ultimately decides on the type of activity, length of the hike, and difficulty involved.
For a short day or multi-day hikes, a smaller pack is ideal to fit the most basic gear required. In addition, consider the weather you might encounter in the outdoors to dictate any additional clothing layers.
A multi-day or weekend adventure needs a pack with a bit more space for more than just the valuables. In addition, it should also hold some small, lightweight comforts such as your tent, sleeping bags and mat, and cooking gear.
For longer treks, you will need a pack with at least a 50/60L capacity. Carrying enough food and water for multiple days will take up a significant volume. Therefore, it is recommended that you choose a pack spacious enough to accommodate these items without missing out on other comforts.
Generally, you should not carry more than you need. Choosing a hiking pack that is more than you need can lead to you filling it with irrelevant items and unwanted weight. A good pack should also provide you with a pocket to snugly store your phone, compass, water bottles, and any maps.
At K2 Base Camp, we stock a huge range of hiking packs from brand including Exped , Osprey and Lowe Alpine. Come in and speak to one of our experts or shop our full selection online today!