How To Choose A Backpack Or Day Pack

Daypacks and backpacks not only need to carry your gear when you're hiking, they need to be comfortable and functional. The best backpack to meet your needs will depend on what you need it for. Will you be taking a short day hike? Do you need to pack for a 3-day wilderness hike? How much gear do you need to carry? Do you need one large storage compartment or would you prefer several smaller ones?

Different types of packs range from smaller fanny packs to large internal and external frame packs. We will discuss the benefits of each below.

Fanny Packs

A fanny pack is a smaller carrying case that is worn around your hips. If you only need to carry a small amount of food, water and other small items, this may be the right choice for you. It is not a good choice for overnight trips, since it does not have the proper storage capacity.

Some hikers prefer the load weight on their hips versus their back - and vice versa. It is a good idea to try both styles on before making a decision. Several fanny packs designed for hiking include an exterior water bottle pocket. This can be convenient, since you can access and remove your water bottle without having to open your pack.

Hydration Packs

Hydration packs generally come with minimal storage, but their feature benefit is their water storage capacity. If you plan on drinking a lot of water and want your hands free while hiking, a hydration pack can give you that. Since they are smaller, they generally hug your back better than a day pack. A better fit makes it easier to maneuver and climb around, if that is on your agenda. You can usually fit some snacks, keys, a camera and other small items in a hydration pack as well.

Day Packs

A day pack provides typically about twice as much carrying space as a fanny pack (about 2,000 cubic inches). This gives you ample space for a day trip, as the name suggests, but it is not suggested for an overnight trip.

Comfort is important, especially on longer hikes. Look for day packs with padded shoulder straps and hip belt. When you pack your load, do not fill the bag so full that it extends so far that it causes extra strain on your back.

Internal and External Frame Packs

These are the largest of the packs, offering enough storage space for multi-day trips. They also give you lots of compartments to keep your gear organized and easy to reach. Starting at around 2,500 cubic inches of space, internal and external frame packs can get as big as 6,000 cubic inches.

External frame packs have the frame on the outside, which give you better air circulation on your back. The packs are designed to carry the load higher on the back. Although less popular than internal frame packs, this style is usually priced lower. Internal frame packs carry the weight lower and closer to your back, therefore providing greater stability while hiking.