How to choose your hiking backpack - Guide Rando Shop

Choosing the right backpack is crucial for a successful hike. Whether you're planning a day hike or a multi-day adventure, it's important to find a pack that suits your needs. At Rando Shop in Crans-Montana, we offer simple advice to help you choose the perfect backpack, ensuring comfort and practicality throughout your excursion.

1. Backpack size: an essential factor

The capacity of a backpack is measured in liters and varies depending on the type of hike. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right size based on the duration of your excursion:

• Day hike (15 to 25 liters): For a day out, a 15 to 25-liter backpack will suffice. You'll have enough space to carry a jacket, water, snacks, and other small essentials.
• Multi-day hike (30 to 50 liters): If you're heading out for a 1-3 night excursion, opt for a 30 to 50-liter pack. This will allow you to store your camping gear, food, and extra clothing without overloading your back.

Beyond size, make sure the backpack is lightweight, as a pack that's too large might tempt you to carry more than necessary.

2. Essential technical features

Backpack structure

There are several types of backpack structures for hiking, and here are the ones we can offer:

• Frameless: Ultra-light and compact, but less comfortable for heavy loads. They can be sufficient for shorter outings.
• Framed: These are designed to fit the wearer's body and distribute weight more evenly. Ideally, the majority of a backpack's weight should rest on your hips, not your shoulders. Some backpacks use specific additional technologies to transfer the weight from the shoulders to the hips.

Ventilation and comfort

If your hike is long, a good ventilation system is essential to avoid excessive sweating. Look for a backpack with a breathable back panel. Also, check the padding on the shoulder straps and hip belt, as they greatly improve comfort by distributing the weight.

3. A well-fitted backpack for more comfort

A well-fitted backpack is essential to avoid back or shoulder pain. Before buying, measure your torso length and hip width. Then, adjust the hip belt and shoulder straps so that most of the weight rests on your hips, not on your shoulders.

Don't forget to test your backpack before a big hike by filling it to simulate the actual load and check its comfort.

4. Additional features to consider

Some backpacks offer options that can greatly improve your comfort depending on your type of hike. For example:

• Trekking pole holder: Ideal if you use trekking poles to free your hands when you're not using them.
• Integrated hydration pocket: Perfect for drinking without having to stop, particularly useful during hot weather hikes.
• Side water bottle pockets and compression straps: They help organize your gear better and adjust the backpack's volume based on your needs.

The choice of a hiking backpack mainly depends on the duration of your excursion, the storage capacity you need, and the technical features to ensure comfort and practicality. At Rando Shop, we have a selection suited for all adventures, whether short or long. Feel free to visit us in Crans-Montana to try out our models in person!