Rucksack Buying Guide

Pro Tip: For travel, consider a 40-50L pack with front-loading access (e.g., Osprey Farpoint 40) to meet airline carry-on limits

When it comes to choosing a rucksack, understanding the different types available-and what each is designed for-can make all the difference. The right pack will not only fit your gear but also your lifestyle, whether you’re heading out for a quick trail run, a multi-day trek, or a round-the-world adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the main rucksack types, what sets them apart, and what to look for in each.

Best for: Single-day hikes, city exploring, commuting, or gym trips
Typical capacity: 10–35 litres

Daypacks are small, lightweight rucksacks designed to carry just the essentials for a day out. They’re perfect for short walks, day hikes, or everyday use. While they don’t usually have the robust support systems of larger packs, many daypacks still feature handy extras like hydration sleeves, side pockets, and even chest or hip straps for stability. Some models are tailored for commuters, offering padded laptop sleeves and organisational pockets.

Best for: Running, cycling, or fast hiking
Typical capacity: 10–25 litres

These rucksacks are all about speed and efficiency. Designed to be as light and close-fitting as possible, they’re perfect for activities where you want to move fast and carry only the bare minimum-think water, an emergency layer, and a snack. Many include built-in or compatible hydration bladders, allowing you to drink on the go. The fit is snug to prevent bouncing, and the design is streamlined to reduce drag.

Best for: Day hikes, hillwalking, or short overnight trips
Typical capacity: 20–40 litres

Hiking rucksacks are a step up from daypacks, offering more space and support for longer days out or lightweight overnight adventures. They’re designed with comfort in mind, often featuring padded hip belts, adjustable back systems, and plenty of pockets for easy access to your kit. Look for features like trekking pole holders, rain covers, and robust fabrics for durability.

Best for: Multi-day hikes, wild camping, expeditions
Typical capacity: 50–80+ litres

Backpacking rucksacks are built for carrying heavier loads over longer distances. They feature advanced support systems, such as internal frames and adjustable harnesses, to distribute weight evenly and reduce fatigue. These packs often include multiple access points, compression straps, and dedicated compartments for sleeping bags and other bulky kit. If you’re heading out on a Duke of Edinburgh expedition, a festival, or a week-long trek, this is the type of pack you’ll need

Best for: Backpacking holidays, gap years, long-term travel
Typical capacity: 40–70 litres

Travel rucksacks are designed with globe-trotters in mind. They combine the carrying comfort of a hiking rucksack with the convenience of a suitcase. Most feature a large, suitcase-style opening for easy packing, stowable harnesses for airport travel, and often a detachable daypack for exploring without your main bag. Some even have wheels for city travel. Security features like lockable zips and hidden pockets are common.

• Cordura Nylon (1000D): 12,000+ abrasion cycles; 90% UV resistance
• Ripstop Polyester: 40% lighter than nylon; 5,000mm waterproof rating when PU-coated
• Dyneema® Composite: 15x stronger than steel by weight; used in ultralight packs

Pro Tip: Look for aquaguard zippers (8,000+ cycles) and TPU laminates for true waterproofing

• Bottom 25%: Sleeping bag, soft items (density <0.3g/cm³)
• Middle 50%: Heavy gear (stoves, food) close to back
• Top 25%: Frequently needed items (rain jacket, GPS)

• Static Loads: Use side straps to reduce pack volume by 15-20%
• Dynamic Loads: Cargo nets + daisy chains for trekking poles/ice axes

• ROKMAN METAMORPH™: Modular dry bags (IP67 rating) + submersible zippers
• Exped DrySacks: 10D silnylon liners for 100% waterproof compartments

• Seam Sealing: Silicone tape (3M 9482PC) increases waterproofness by 40%
• DWR Renewal: Nikwax TX.Direct restores 90% water repellency

• Hydration Compatibility → Look for a dedicated bladder sleeve and tube port (e.g., CamelBak reservoirs).
• Rain Cover → Integrated or sold separately (e.g., Deuter packs with Dry.Cover).
• Adjustable Torso Length → Ensure even weight distribution (critical for packs >30L).
• Lockable Zips → Essential for urban travel (featured in Pacsafe and Eagle Creek models).
• Gear Attachment Points → Daisy chains, ice axe loops, and trekking pole holders

1. Measure Your Torso: Use a flexible tape measure from C7 vertebra to iliac crest.
2. Adjust the Harness: Slide the shoulder straps to match your torso length.
3. Secure the Hip Belt: Position over your hips (not waist) and tighten until 70% weight transfers to legs.
4. Fine-Tune Load Lifters: Pull straps at a 45° angle to keep the pack close to your back.
5. Common Mistake: Overtightening shoulder straps → Causes numbness in fingers.

• Women’s Packs: Shorter torso lengths, S-curve shoulder straps, narrower hip belts.
• Men’s Packs: Longer torso designs, straighter harnesses.

Best for Women: Osprey Sirrus 24 (day hikes), Deuter Aircontact Ultra 50+5 (trekking).

1. Osprey → Rucksacks with advanced suspension systems, highly breathable back panels, and ergonomic harnesses for maximum comfort on long hikes and backpacking trips.
2. Lowe Alpine → Packs engineered for stability and support, featuring robust construction, innovative carry systems, and practical pocket layouts for technical hikes and mountain adventures.
3. Fjällräven → Durable rucksacks crafted from hardwearing materials, offering classic Scandinavian design, spacious compartments, and versatile options for both trekking and everyday use.
4. Rab → Lightweight, weather-resistant rucksacks designed for mountain pursuits, with streamlined profiles and secure gear attachment points for climbing and fast-moving activities.
5. Mountain Equipment → Expedition-grade packs built for challenging environments, featuring reinforced seams, tough fabrics, and technical features suited to demanding treks and alpine conditions

• Solar Integration: Powerfilm 10W panels in lid compartments
• AI Fit Systems: Deuter’s Body Scan app measures 14 torso points
• Self-Healing Fabrics: Polyurethane coatings seal <3mm punctures