How to choose the ideal backpack for your next adventure

Choosing the right backpack for any type of adventure is key to ensuring comfort, safety, and efficiency during the journey. Whether it's for a backpacking trip, a mountain expedition, a bike crossing, or a hike in nature, having the right gear can make a difference in your experience. A poor choice can lead to muscle overload, chronic pain, and even injuries that affect your performance.

Therefore, a good backpack should allow for balanced weight distribution, reduce fatigue, and adapt to the user's anatomy. Factors such as capacity, fit, materials, and ergonomics play an essential role in this choice. In this article, we explain in detail what aspects you should consider when buying a backpack for your next adventure, helping you find the option that best suits your type of trip.

1. Backpack Capacity

The capacity of backpacks is measured in liters (L), as this unit allows for calculating the internal volume available for storing gear and supplies. This helps adventurers estimate how much space they will need based on the duration and demands of their journey, ensuring they choose a backpack that can hold everything necessary without being too large or heavy.

• Backpacks under 30 L: Ideal for short outings or day trips, such as light hikes on well-marked trails, urban walks, or tours through natural parks, where carrying too much gear is not required.

• Backpacks between 30 L and 50 L: Ideal for trips of 2 to 3 days, such as camping or weekend getaways in nature, providing enough space for essentials without overloading the luggage.

• Backpacks between 50 L and 70 L: Recommended for multi-day expeditions where more gear is needed, such as a tent, a more robust sleeping bag, extra clothing, and cooking utensils.

• Backpacks over 70 L: For long expeditions or extreme climates, ideal for those undertaking mountain explorations, survival crossings, or extended trips in remote areas.

2. Fit and Ergonomics

A well-fitted backpack is key for comfort and injury prevention, as poorly distributed weight can create excessive pressure on certain areas of the body. It is important to try on the backpack before purchasing it and adjust it correctly to ensure a comfortable experience without discomfort during the journey.

• Padded straps: Better distribute pressure on the shoulders and prevent the straps from digging into the skin.

• Lumbar belt: Supports a large part of the backpack's weight, relieving tension in the back and improving balance.

• Chest strap: Helps stabilize the load and prevents the backpack from moving sideways.

• Ventilated back: Reduces sweat accumulation, providing greater comfort in warm climates.

• Torso adjustment: Allows modification of strap height to better fit different body types.

3. Material and Durability

The material of the backpack is a determining factor in its durability, weight, and ability to protect against wear and weather conditions. When choosing a backpack, it is important to consider durable materials suitable for the type of adventure you will undertake:

• Ripstop nylon: Lightweight, tear-resistant, and highly durable, ideal for high-performance backpacks and extended expeditions.

• Polyester: More economical and durable, suitable for short trips or less demanding routes.

4. Compartments and Accessibility

A well-organized backpack allows for easy access to essential items, optimizing space and avoiding the need to rummage through all its contents:

• Spacious main pocket: To carry most of the gear.

• Bottom access: Useful for storing the sleeping bag or extra clothing.

• Side and top pockets: Ideal for frequently used items. Hydration reservoir compartment: Facilitates hydration without interrupting movement.

5. Weight of the Backpack

The empty weight of the backpack is a key aspect to consider, as it directly influences comfort and performance during long journeys. Opting for a lightweight backpack can reduce fatigue and improve mobility, while a heavier one may offer greater durability and load capacity, depending on the type of adventure.

• Ultralight backpacks (<1 kg): Recommended for minimalist trips or short excursions.

• Medium-weight backpacks (1-2 kg): A good balance between durability and lightness, ideal for most adventurers.

• Heavy backpacks (>2 kg): With additional reinforcements and greater capacity, recommended for long expeditions.

6. Waterproofing and Protection

While many backpacks have some water resistance, it is advisable to consider additional options:

• Waterproof rain covers: To protect against heavy rain.

• Waterproof pockets: Designed to safeguard documents and electronic devices.

7. Price and Quality

The cost of a backpack varies according to its features, materials, and construction quality, which directly influences its durability and performance in different types of adventures.

• Budget backpacks (<50 USD): For occasional use, with lower load capacity and fewer advanced features.

• Mid-range backpacks (50-150 USD): Versatile backpacks with good material quality and ergonomic adjustments.

• High-end backpacks (>150 USD): Specialized designs with advanced technologies, ideal for extended expeditions.

Prepare your backpack for your next adventure with Outdoor Index

At Outdoor Index, we offer a wide variety of activities for adventure lovers. Additionally, each of our experiences displays the duration of the tours and excursions, making it easier for travelers to plan ahead with the choice of their backpack. This way, you can purchase the ideal gear in advance according to the demands of your adventure, ensuring comfort and efficiency. Discover the excursions and tours we have for you: Excursions and tours in Chile.