The Best Quality Backpacks for Hiking
- The best quality backpacks are ones that fit you best. A pack that fits right results in more comfort, which is an important quality especially when treading rough terrain with a heavy-loaded pack. Choose a well-fitted pack according to the length of your torso with a comfortable snug grip around the hips. Look for the manufacturer's sizing guides regarding torso length, as this may vary. Small backpacks are ideal for torsos that range from 16 to 17.5 inches in length, and medium-sized packs are well fitted for torso lengths of 18 to 19.5 inches.
- Backpacking excursions can last for multiple-day trips, which makes an internal hydration system an essential quality of a pack. Some backpacks are equipped with an internal sleeve where you can put in a hydration reservoir, while other pack models already include the hydration packs inside. The packs come with a hose portal through which hikers can slip in the sip tube, making drinking an easy and convenient task. Get a pack with a hydration system even without the hydration bladders. They are available in most sporting goods stores.
- Another important quality of backpacks is size. Look for packs that can accommodate your storage needs. Choose a pack model that matches the amount of load you intend to carry for your trips. Ample pockets, sleeping bag compartments and measurements such as load-bearing depth, width and height should be compared with other backpacks. However, a big backpack isn't always the best choice. Unless it has compression features, a large pack may be too much a burden too carry and to balance while you're out on the trails.
- Balance qualities such as durability and light weight. Details like fine construction, waterproof fabrics and lightweight materials are all marks of quality backpacks. Go light as much as permitted by your comfort and needs while out in the wild. Durability is important especially for carrying loads like tents, sleeping bags, cooking utensils and more. Look for gear with weight-saving designs without compromising your capacity needs.
