Choosing an Outdoor Backpack: Everything You Need to Know About Trekking, Camping and Hiking Packs

When buying an outdoor backpack it is not enough to ask, “How many liters?” Of two packs with the same capacity, one may feel balanced and comfortable for miles, while the other may tire your shoulders on a short hike. The difference is not just the volume: the suspension system, torso fit, hip belt, load distribution, organization, materials and intended use all work together.

In this comprehensive guide, we explain the differences between outdoor, trekking, camping, hiking and tactical backpacks, then cover capacity, torso length, rain protection, packing and the details to consider before buying. We also compare real technical specifications of different models in the Ersin Outdoor range.

A Quick Comparison of Outdoor Backpacks

When comparing outdoor backpacks, it’s important to realize that the same liter capacity doesn’t necessarily mean the same usage characteristics. For example, a 50-liter tactical backpack and a 50+10-liter adjustable trekking backpack may carry a similar amount of gear; however, their organizational layouts, back systems, and intended purposes differ.

The products below represent different types of backpack and intended uses. Check the individual product or category page for current availability before making your choice.

Model	Image	Volume	Weight	Back / Carrying System	Key Details	Best Suited To
Bushlove Lazer Cut Tactical Large Value for money MOLLE		50 L	Not specified on the product page	Waist stability strap	5 compartments, internal organization, fully opening main compartment, laser-cut MOLLE system, 53 × 33 × 30 cm	Tactical use, camping, vehicle kits and multi-compartment organization
Husky Rony 50 Trekking		50 L	1,700 g	Adjustable DER back system, EVA and 3D mesh	Rain cover, hydration bladder compatibility, two main compartments, removable top lid	Designed for walking and classic trekking
Ferrino Overland 50+10 Trekking		50+10 L	2,350 g	Support panels, ventilated back and hip-belt construction	Rain cover, hydration compatibility, sleeping bag compartment, removable top lid	Trekking with a tent and multi-day camping
VAUDE Astrum EVO 55+10 Women's Women's Trekking		55+10 L	1,760 g	Adjustable support system, ErgoShape shoulder straps designed for women	Specified weight range: 15–22 kg; dimensions: 74 × 34 × 31 cm; made from recycled materials	Long-distance trekking and carrying designed for the female anatomy
Deuter Aircontact Core 50+10 Long-distance trekking		50+10 L	2,160 g	Aircontact, VariSlide, VariFlex, and Y-frame	42–62 cm back length, rain cover, compatible with a 3 L hydration system, recommended load: 15–20 kg	Long distances, heavier loads and an advanced carrying system

Are Outdoor, Trekking, Camping and Hiking Backpacks the Same?

In everyday use, these expressions can be used interchangeably. However, there are distinct differences between them in terms of usage scenarios.

How Many Liters Should an Outdoor Backpack Hold?

“How many liters should a trekking backpack hold?” This is one of the most common questions about outdoor backpacks. However, the correct answer doesn’t depend solely on how many days your trip will last. The compressed size of your sleeping bag, whether you’re sharing a tent, the amount of winter clothing you’re bringing, your water needs, and how compact your gear is can all significantly affect the volume.

In REI’s backpack guides, volume is also evaluated in conjunction with trip duration, the amount of gear, and carrying preferences. For 1–3-night trips, approximately 30–50 liters is recommended, while larger volumes are recommended for multi-day trips.

For a more detailed comparison by capacity, see our guide: How Many Liters Should an Outdoor Backpack Be? Comparing 20 L, 40 L and 65 L.

Why Can the Back System Matter More Than Capacity?

When two 50-liter outdoor backpacks are placed side by side, their volumes may appear to be the same. However, the difference between them becomes apparent when a load is added. The purpose of a trekking backpack is not merely to have the weight rest on the shoulder straps; rather, it is for the body of the backpack to fit snugly against the body and for a significant portion of the load to be transferred to the hip area.

For this reason, the following components should be evaluated together on long routes:

Torso length matters more than your height

Overall height can be misleading when choosing a backpack size. Backpack fitting guidance emphasizes torso length as the key measurement. It is generally measured from the C7 vertebra at the base of the neck to the level of the top of the hip bones.

For longer hikes, check the model's stated torso-length range. The product listing for the Deuter Aircontact Core in this comparison, for example, specifies 42–62 cm.
Why is a ventilation system important?

Air circulation between the back panel and the body affects comfort, especially in hot weather. Mesh panels, air channels, or manufacturer-specific back systems can help reduce the feeling of sweating. However, good ventilation alone is not enough; a poorly adjusted backpack can be uncomfortable even with the most advanced back system.

How Do You Properly Adjust an Outdoor Backpack?

The reason a newly purchased hiking backpack feels uncomfortable isn’t always the product itself. Tightening the straps in the wrong order can cause the weight to shift onto your shoulders or pull the backpack backward.

How Heavy Should an Outdoor Backpack Be?

This question has two distinct meanings: the backpack's empty weight and its total loaded weight.

A very light backpack is not automatically better. To save weight, manufacturers may use thinner shoulder padding, a lighter frame or simpler organization. If you will be carrying a heavy load, a robust suspension system may matter more than saving a few hundred grams on the pack itself.

 As a general guideline, it is recommended that a day hike load not exceed approximately 10% of the user’s body weight, and a backpacking load not exceed approximately 20%; however, these figures are a general starting point that may vary depending on personal fitness, the route, equipment, and health status. 

 Are Outdoor Backpacks Waterproof?

“Waterproof outdoor backpack” is a common search term, but water-resistant fabric and a fully waterproof construction are not the same. A water-resistant outer fabric does not guarantee that zippers, seams and the rest of the pack will remain watertight during prolonged rain.

For this reason, it is important to read the product description carefully. If the product page does not explicitly state “waterproof” or specify a particular waterproofing standard, it is incorrect to assume the bag is waterproof based solely on its appearance or the thickness of the fabric.

REI also offers separate rain covers designed for different liter capacities; this illustrates why external rain protection is a common solution for classic hiking backpacks.

What Features Should You Look for in an Outdoor Backpack?

1. Hip belt

For larger packs, especially those above roughly 40–50 liters and designed for heavy loads, a padded, load-bearing hip belt is very different from a thin decorative waist strap. For heavy trekking loads, a belt that securely wraps around the hips becomes essential.

2. Sternum strap

It helps keep the shoulder straps in place. If it’s too tight, it can make it hard to breathe and restrict shoulder movement.

3. Compression straps

When the bag isn't completely full, it helps maintain its shape and minimize movement of the contents. It can also be used on some models to secure appropriate gear to the outside of the bag.

4. Bottom compartment

It’s useful for a sleeping bag, camping shoes, or any gear you want to keep separate. However, everyone has different usage habits; a user who does minimalist trekking might prefer a single main compartment.

5. Front or side access

With a large bag that opens only at the top, you may have to empty the entire bag just to reach items at the bottom. A U-shaped, J-shaped, or full-circumference zipper opening makes this much easier.

6. Hydration system

For hikers carrying a water bladder, an internal reservoir compartment and a hose outlet may be important. If you don’t need this feature, you don’t have to choose a more expensive model just because it has it.

7. Trekking pole and technical gear attachments

Attachment points for trekking poles, an ice axe or a helmet may be important, depending on the activity. For predominantly urban or camping use, these features may not be necessary.

8. What is the MOLLE system?

The MOLLE system allows compatible pouches and accessories to be attached to the outside of the bag in a modular fashion. It is particularly common in tactical backpacks. Its advantage is customizable organization; its disadvantage is that the bag can expand and become unstable when too much equipment is attached to the outside.

How to Pack a Camping Backpack: Load Distribution

Even an expensive hiking backpack can be uncomfortable to carry if it’s packed incorrectly. It’s important to distribute the weight evenly from side to side and to avoid placing heavy gear too far away from your body.

REI’s packing guide also divides the backpack into sections: bottom, center, top, and outer pockets; placing heavy and bulky gear toward the center of the backpack, close to your back, can create a more balanced center of gravity.

Bushlove Lazer Cut 50 L: Four Colors, One Model

Although different colors of the Bushlove Lazer Cut Tactical Large are listed on separate product pages, they are technically the same basic design. Rather than treating the four colors as different packs, consider them color options of a single 50-liter model.

Beige

Khaki

Gendarmerie Camouflage

Black

Verified features of the model

• 50 liters of capacity
• 53 × 33 × 30 cm dimensions
• Five main compartments
• Additional organization within the compartments
• Wide zippered opening to the main compartment
• Internal zippered compartment
• Waist strap for stability
• Laser-cut MOLLE system for attaching compatible additional pouches

The listing does not specify the pack's empty weight, an adjustable trekking-specific suspension or an included rain cover, so we do not assume that these features are present.

Bushlove 50 L: How Does It Compare for Value?

To make a fair comparison here, we first need to make an important distinction: the Bushlove Lazer Cut 50 L is not in the exact same product category as models with advanced trekking suspension systems, such as the Deuter Aircontact Core or the VAUDE Astrum EVO.

In the case of Deuter, there are more comprehensive carrying technologies designed for long-distance trekking, such as VariSlide, VariFlex, Aircontact, the Y-frame, specific back length, and recommended load information. The VAUDE model features an adjustable support system and ErgoShape shoulder straps designed for women’s anatomy; the Husky Rony features the DER adjustable back system; and Ferrino stands out for its trekking-focused support and organization features.

In other words, rather than simply choosing the least or most expensive pack, invest in the features you actually need rather than technology you will not use. That is a better way to assess value for money.

Outdoor Backpack Brands: Which Brand Is Right for You?

There is no single answer to the question of the best outdoor backpack brand. Even within the same brand, you may find daypacks, 70+ liter trekking packs, tactical backpacks and cycling bags, all intended for different uses.

Deuter

It offers a wide range of products, particularly in the trekking category, featuring Aircontact and various back systems. It is one of the brands that users who prioritize a comfortable fit for heavy and long-distance carrying may want to consider.

VAUDE

It offers models designed for different frame structures and usage scenarios in trekking and outdoor activities. In the case of the Astrum EVO featured in the comparison, the shoulder straps tailored to women’s anatomy and the adjustable carrying system stand out.

Husky

It is one of the brands frequently encountered by camping and hiking enthusiasts. Take the Rony 50, for example: it features a 50-liter capacity, a DER back system, a rain cover, and a hydration system—all in one product.

Ferrino

It is one of the brands with a strong history in mountaineering and trekking. In models like the Overland, the compartmentalized design, hydration system compatibility, and features for carrying trekking gear stand out.

Pinguin and Bach

These are brands that offer different liter capacities for technical outdoor and trekking gear. It’s especially important to evaluate a product based not on the brand name, but on the specific model’s back length, empty weight, and features.

5.11 Tactical, FIRST TACTICAL, and Sturm

This is a category frequently considered by users looking for a backpack designed for tactical organization and task-oriented use. In this category, features such as pockets, the MOLLE system, and accessory organization may take precedence over those found in a classic hiking backpack.

Bushlove

The 50-liter Lazer Cut combines a multi-compartment layout with MOLLE organization. Decide whether your main requirement is trekking or tactical and multi-purpose carrying before assessing its suitability and value.

10 Common Mistakes When Buying an Outdoor Backpack

1. Looking only at capacity

Two packs may have the same 50-liter capacity but completely different carrying systems.

2. Choosing the biggest pack available

Excessive volume encourages many users to carry unnecessary items.

3. Trying on an empty backpack

Shoulder straps and the hip belt can only be properly assessed with a realistic load.

4. Not using the hip belt

In particular, letting the entire weight rest on your shoulders when using a hiking backpack can negate the benefits of a good carrying system.

5. Failing to check torso length

A user's height alone does not determine the correct bag size.

6. Treating the terms “water-resistant” and “waterproof” as synonymous

Using a dry bag for critical electronic and sleeping gear is a safe practice on most routes.

7. Hanging too much equipment outside

Heavy, loose items on the outside of the bag can throw it off balance.

8. Opting for an inadequate carrying system simply because it is lightweight

An ultralight backpack can only offer an advantage if your total gear is also lightweight.

9. Mistaking the number of pockets for quality

For some users, having multiple pockets is an advantage, while for others, it may be unnecessary bulk.

10. Choosing a brand without clarifying its intended use

A tactical backpack, a day-hike backpack, and a 5-day trekking backpack don’t all solve the same problem.

Interactive Outdoor Backpack Buying Checklist

When choosing a bag, check the following items in order. As you complete each criterion, check it off so you can easily keep track of which items you’ve evaluated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Backpacks

Research note: General backpack capacity, torso fit, load distribution and packing principles were cross-checked against guidance on backpack selection, adjustment, weight and packing. Product specifications are based on the Ersin Outdoor product listings; unspecified technical values have not been estimated.