An ill-fitting rucksack can ruin an otherwise perfect trip. It’s not merely a container but the core of your carrying system. Remember these 5 golden rules to ensure every penny you spend delivers exceptional value.
Golden Rule 1: Determine Capacity – Choose the Right Size
Day Hikes (<30 litres): Water, food, rainwear, first-aid kit.
Weekend Overnights (30-50 litres): Add sleeping gear (tent, sleeping bag, mat) and cookware to the above.
Multi-day treks (50-70 litres): Requires carrying more food and fuel, suitable for 3-5 day heavy hikes.
Expeditions & Minimalists (>70 litres or <50 litres): The former for week-long or extreme cold expeditions; the latter demands exceptional lightweight gear support.
Beginner’s recommendation: Start with 40-50 litres, balancing overnight capacity with daily practicality.
Golden Rule Two: The core is the carrying system – get the support right
The carrying system is the backpack’s skeleton, determining how weight transfers from your shoulders to your hips.
Adjustable back length: Most hiking rucksacks feature adjustable back panels, which must be selected according to your torso length (not height).
Ventilated back panels: Examples like Osprey’s AG Anti-Gravity series offer exceptional breathability.
Suspension systems: Such as Gregory’s Balo series, which dynamically conform to the back to distribute pressure.
When trying on, always load it with weight (around 10kg) to feel whether the load is being carried by your hips.
Golden Rule Three: Prioritise Fit – Buy Comfort
Hipbelt: The pad should sit perfectly on your hip bones (iliac crest), not your waist. This is the load-bearing core.
Shoulder Straps: They should naturally follow the curve of your shoulders without rubbing against your neck.
Chest strap: Adjusts the distance between shoulder straps for enhanced stability.
Golden Rule Four: Plan Functionality and Storage — Buying the Right Design
Top kangaroo pocket: Convenient for storing small items requiring quick access.
Side stretch mesh pockets: Ideal for water bottles or rain jackets, offering extreme convenience.
Bottom sleeping bag compartment: Dedicated storage for your sleeping bag, keeping it dry.
External Attachment System: Carries larger items like groundsheets or tents.
Consider Your Habits: Are you someone who prefers organisation or immediate access?
Golden Rule Five: Match Budget and Brand – Buying Value
Entry-Level (500 – 1000): Deuter, Osprey, Gregory’s introductory ranges.
Intermediate (1000 – 2000): Technical models from the above brands, featuring superior carrying systems.
Professional/Ultralight (2000+): Hyperlite, Zpacks, etc., engineered for peak performance.
Final recommendation: Within your budget, prioritise carrying system comfort above all else.
