What you should look for in trekking backpacks
A trekking backpack is your faithful companion on long tours. It has to carry a lot of weight, fit comfortably and be well organized. There are a few important points to consider to make the right choice.
The right seat: comfort is everything
A trekking backpack should fit your body perfectly. Women's models are often cut a little narrower and offer special carrying systems that adapt better to the female anatomy. A well-padded shoulder strap that distributes the weight evenly is particularly important. A sturdy hip belt helps to take the load off your shoulders, while an adjustable chest strap prevents it from slipping. To ensure that your back does not sweat excessively even on longer tours, many manufacturers ensure good air circulation with breathable mesh fabric.
An example: The Deuter Aircontact 65+10 is equipped with a particularly stable carrying system that has been optimized for heavy loads. Thanks to the Vari-Quick back length adjustment, you can adjust it individually and adapt it to your body size. Women will find the Deuter Aircontact 60+10 SL, a variant specially designed for the female anatomy.
Which size is the right one?
Choosing the right backpack size depends on your intended use. For short tours, models between 30 and 44 liters are often sufficient, and can also be used as hand luggage on an airplane. For multi-day hikes with a sleeping bag and sleeping mat, a backpack with 45 to 59 liters is recommended. If you are going on a long trekking tour or backpacking trip, a model with 60 to 85 liters is ideal. It is important that the back length of the backpack fits your body size and that the carrying system can be optimally adjusted.
A classic example of a versatile trekking backpack is the Osprey Atmos AG 65. It is perfect for longer hikes and offers exceptional comfort and ventilation with its anti-gravity carrying system. For shorter tours or hut treks, however, the Fjällräven Kajka 55 could be a good choice - robust, sustainably produced and with excellent load distribution.
Practical features for on the go
A good trekking backpack offers you numerous options for storing your equipment sensibly. Many models have a separate bottom compartment for the sleeping bag, which saves you a long search. Compression straps help to reduce the packing volume and keep the weight close to the body. Drinking systems with a special holder for a water bag make it easier for you to hydrate on the go. If your backpack does not have an integrated rain cover, you should definitely add one to keep your equipment dry in bad weather.
An example of a clever packing solution is the Gregory Baltoro 75, which impresses with multiple access points to the main compartment, a removable daypack and practical zipped compartments on the hip belt. This means you always have your most important items to hand.
How do you pack your trekking backpack correctly?
Packing correctly is crucial for comfort. Heavy items should be placed as close to the back and in the middle as possible, while light items such as clothing can be stored further out. There are often special holders for hiking poles or ice axes so that they are not in the way. Additional pockets on the sides or hip belt are ideal for small items that you want to have close at hand when you are on the move.
For example, if you are planning a trekking tour in the Alps, it can be helpful to store your tent, stove and food in the middle of the backpack, while rain gear and snacks remain easily accessible in the outside pockets. The Vaude Astrum EVO 60+10 offers optimal organization with its well-thought-out compartments.
care and longevity
To ensure that your backpack lasts a long time, you should clean it regularly. Light dirt can be easily removed with a soft brush, and more stubborn stains with lukewarm water and mild soap. You should avoid machine washing, as this can damage the coating of the material. After every trip, it is worth airing the backpack out well and storing it in a dry place.
A practical tip: If your backpack is sweaty after a particularly strenuous tour, you can gently wipe it down with a mixture of water and vinegar to neutralize odors. Then let it dry thoroughly - preferably in the fresh air.
Renting instead of buying
If you don't go on long tours regularly, it may be worth renting a trekking backpack instead of buying one. This way you save money and can try out different models to find out what suits you best. At Eddy's Adventure you will find high-quality backpacks for your next outdoor adventure - perfectly maintained and ready for the next challenge!
A real advantage of renting: If, for example, you are planning a winter tour but normally only hike in the summer, you can rent a larger, more robust backpack for this special occasion without having to make a large investment right away.
