Adventures,  Favorite Things

How to Pick the Perfect Backpack for Every Adventure!

May 8, 2022 /

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A few posts ago I wrote a post about how to fit and pack your backpack so it fits everything you (and then some). But knowing which backpack to pick for which adventure matters. This post is about how to go about picking the best and then which ones I recommend!

How to pick a backpack?

Everyone is different and every backpack fits differently. When shopping for a backpack it’s important to pick the backpack that will fit your body properly, be the right size for what you need, and be within your budget! So Where do you start?

  1. Decide on the features you want & need. Backpacks are used for various kinds of trips but the basic features you want are important!
    • Do you want side bottle pockets?
    • Do you want a “quick access” outside pocket?
    • Do you want a brain (top flap pocket)?
    • Do you want a waterbladder compartment?
    • Is this for winter or summer?
    • Do you want gear loops?
    • What kind of interior pockets do you want?
    • Do you want a male, female, or unisex bag? As a female, I found that female-specific packs tend to fit my body structure better but totally your choice!
  2. Decide on the size of your pack. The length of your “average” trip is important. If you’re investing in a pack, you need to get one that you can use for more than that one trip! Here is a basic guide:
    • Day Hike & Short Adventures (<5 hiking miles) = 10-20 Liters
    • Day Hike (>5 hiking miles) = 20-30 Liters
    • Weekend Trip = 30-40 Liters
    • Multi-Day Trip = 40-60 Liters (My go-to is 53)
    • Thur-Hiking = 60+ Liters
  3. Take some measurements. Many backpacks come in sizes (small, medium, large) and some have adjustable backs and such but having some basic measurements help a ton!
    • Torso Length = Measure neck to hip
    • Hip Size = Measure around your hip bones
  4. Go to a store! You can shop online all you want but nothing beats going to a store and trying on the bag you want and making sure the size is right! Pro-Tip: Go to a store and try on the backpack you want then shop online for cheaper prices!

So now, What Backpacks are my Go-To’s?

Well honestly, I’ve fallen in love with Osprey backpacks because they hold up, fit just right, and hold everything!

Mountain Biking = Osprey Daylite Plus

  • I have the older vision Daylite 10L but this newer vision is great!
  • Best Features:
    • Hydration reservoir sleeve
    • Side water bottle pockets
    • Front “shove-it” pocket (perfect for your raincoat!)
    • Both a sternum and hip straps

Day Hikes = Osprey Sirrus 24L

  • I think they may be discontinuing this one but the tempest is another one I recommend to my friends!
  • Best Features:
    • Hydration reservoir sleeve
    • Side water bottle pockets
    • Both a sternum and hip straps
    • Built-In sternum strap whistle
    • Hipbelt pockets
    • Integrated rain cover

Resort Snowboarding = Osprey Glade 12L

  • I actually have the Osprey Reverb 18L which has been discontinued but this one is very similar!
  • Best Features:
    • Hydration reservoir sleeve (includes 2.5L reservoir!)
    • Goggle pocket
    • Snowboard carry straps
    • Both a sternum and hip straps
    • Built-In sternum strap whistle

Backcountry Snowboard/Winter Hiking = Osprey Kresta 30L

  • Best Features:
    • Avalanche safety storage w/ sleeves
    • Ability to carry both skis & snowboards (I’ve used it for snowshoes too!)
    • Goggle pocket
    • Hip pockets
    • Helmet carry
    • Insulated hydration reservoir sleeve
    • Built-In sternum strap whistle

Backpacking/Overnights = Gregory Jade 53 or I really want the Osprey Aura AG 50.

  • Both these bags are very similar so the best features are the same unless otherwise stated.
  • Best Features:
    • Included rain cover (Gregory Only)
    • Hydration reservoir sleeve
    • Side water bottle pockets
    • Front “shove-it” pocket (perfect for your rain gear or camp shoes!)
    • Hip pockets
    • Built-In sternum strap whistle
    • Removable brain/top flap (Osprey Only)

Now, these obviously aren’t the only backpacks or necessarily the best ones for you so here are some of my favorite stores to shop at!

  • Campmor: They actually have a storefront in New Jersey that I have been to many times! They care mostly discontinued (aka last year’s model) gear but they’re awesome!
  • Moosejaw: They sell new and “old” stuff but have great prices & a reward program!
  • Backcountry: They sell mostly new stuff but often have great sales!

I hope you found this post helpful! So once you’ve picked out be sure to check out how to pack & fit and many other posts in the GET OUTSIDE SERIES! Enjoy the great outdoors!