If you’re a backpacker, going on a long trip, or an outdoor enthusiast, preparing for your next camping or hiking adventure, you understand how important it is to have a good backpack. Whether it’s your first backpack ever, or you just need to buy a new one, here are some of the most important things you should know about this essential part of travel and hiking gear.

Backpack and rucksack are terms that can be used interchangeably. However, the rucksack is very similar to a backpack, but most often it’s used to describe larger bags or those designed for travelling. One of the main factors to consider when choosing the best backpack for you is how big it should be. Mostly, it depends on what you plan to use it for and how much you need to take. When searching for a luggage option that’s spacious enough, but won’t weigh you down, a 65l rucksack might be the right choice.

Is 65l Backpack Big Enough?

Backpacks are measured by the total capacity of all of the pockets in litres and most of them are between 25 and 85 litres. Smaller bags are ideal for carrying a few items, like a light jacket, camera, or some food. Large bags, on the other hand, are great for travel and outdoor adventures.

65l rucksacks are a great choice for long trips, travelling, backpacking, expeditions. They work well in the outdoors when you’ll be carrying multiple days’ worth of camping essentials, clothing and food.

65l rucksacks are ideal for anything from an extended hike, including camping, to backpacking all over the world. They are designed to be able to hold a substantial amount of kit and have plenty of pockets for storage. You can choose a 65l rucksack, well suited for travelling, trekking, overnight camping, hiking and rucking events.

For trekking, you can store all your gear, hydration and meals in a 65l backpack easily. You can use it to pack large items such as cooking equipment, plates, clothes, food and water for your hiking trip, but also for your camping experiences. Some of them have features that allow you to carry the backpack comfortably and features that can help you to strap equipment, including sleeping bag, tent, clothes and other camping essentials.

Make sure the features of the backpack you choose support you depending on the activity you’re getting it for. For your backpacking needs, you can consider a rucksack with a padded laptop pocket and handy zippered pocket, perfect for your camera, phone or snacks.

65l backpacks are durable enough to withstand all the weight you’ll be carrying on your backpack journey or your hiking trip. They are the most popular solution lately for trips lasting for 2, 3 days or more. They can be also used for backcountry skiing and overnighters, but there are 65l backpacks that feature a zip-off daypack, which usually amounts to another 10 to 20 litres and is ideal for when you need to pack light.

Important Features to Look for

Water-Resistant

If you’re choosing a backpack for outdoor adventures, you’ll need to make sure it’s water-resistant. This type of backpack can help you prevent all the items you’ll be carrying. Pack fabric interiors are usually treated with a waterproof coating, but still, backpacks have zippers and water can seep through. Also, the fabric’s exterior can absorb some water weight during a downpour. However, most backpacks these days come with rain covers which promote the ultimate protection of your backpack.

Pockets

Multiple pockets, both internal and external, can be used for organising and separating contents. Internal security pockets are necessary for stashing valuable items, while side mesh pockets are great for holding water bottles. Hip-belt pockets can accommodate small items such as smartphone or snacks, so you can reach them easily anytime you need them.

Additional Fit Adjustments

It’s important that your rucksack fits correctly, so you can carry it in comfort. Mainly, it depends on your build and back length, not your overall height. Most backpacks come with adjustable back straps to ensure your backpack fits comfortably and securely. Chest straps ensure the bag is secure and can help distribute some of the weight.

Ventilation

Some backpacks feature a suspended mesh back panel that can fight the sweaty-back syndrome you can get on your hiking trip. They have a frame supported design that rides a few inches away from your back, allowing it to rest against the highly breathable mesh.

Compression Straps

These straps can be found on the top, side or down the front of the backpack. They can be pulled tight to reduce the volume of the bag and minimise movement of the items in it.

Hip Belt

A big amount of the weight of your backpack will sit on your hips. An adjustable hip belt is a common feature on backpacks as it helps to secure the bag around the hip area for added support and load transfer.

Internal Frames

Some backpacks may have internal frames to provide support to your hips, distribute weight and help you maintain an upright posture while walking.

External Clips and Hooks

They can be used to attach equipment to your rucksack, which can be quite useful for travellers and hikers, including daisy chains, elasticated cords and more.