Choosing a Backpacking Pack

One of the most daunting tasks for new backpackers is choosing a backpacking pack. I know I spent months doing research before finally landing on a pack I thought I would love. With so much money being invested in one item, you want to be sure you’re making the right choice. So, what is the right choice? The short answer is, it depends. Haha. Let’s dive into the long answer answer below.

1. Go get measured! If you’re in SoCal, I recommend going to an Adventure 16 to get measured. They’re employees seem a bit more knowledgeable, while REI can be hit or miss in the backpacking department. I thought for sure I would measure in right at a small, but it turns out I just have short legs for the length of my torso. <Thanks Dad> I measured in at 18″, and after trying on numerous packs, it was clear that the mediums fit my torso better. Don’t worry as much about the hip belt. If you get the right torso length, the hip belt should fit you too.
   It is possible to measure yourself at home with the help of another individual, but I really recommend going into a store and getting measured there to make sure you have an exact measurement. It’s not hard to get it wrong when you’re DIYing.
   I have heard it said that Osprey is more comfortable for those with longer torsos, while Gregory seems to fit those with shorter torsos better. I’m not sure how much truth there is to that, but it’s worth exploring. It turned out to be true in my case.
2. Decide its use. Will you be using your back for overnight or weekend trips? For a few days or for thru-hikes? I initially purchased the Osprey Aura AG 50L. But, after testing it for an overnight before a 4 day trip, I decided it was just too small. I couldn’t fit a bear can in it with my tent, sleeping bag and other essentials (the goal is to have everything INSIDE the pack with nothing on the outside). So, I returned it and opted for the Osprey Ariel AG 65L. This pack fits all of my needs; from weekend jaunts to week-long treks through the backcountry.
   In my opinion, most casual backpackers who will be doing overnight and weekend trips here or there, will be good with a 50L pack. If you buy too big, you’ll just end up filling it with things you don’t need, adding to your pack weight (more on that in an upcoming post).
3. Keep an open mind. All of the online research in the world won’t make a pack fit you right. When I was pack shopping, I had done hours of online research before going in to make my purchase. I was determined to get a Gregory pack. They came with more features, seemed to have amazing reviews, and the company just seemed more personable. I walk into the REI at Topanga and make it clear I’m only interested in trying on Gregory packs. The gentleman helping me, a former Marine, laughed but said, “Alright.” <Yeah, he knew what was up>
   Three hours and 5 brands of backpacks later, and it was clear as could be….I was going with the Osprey! The one brand I had been determined not to walk out with.
4. Women’s Vs. Men’s. Just because you’re a woman doesn’t mean you can’t wear a man’s backpack. And vice versa! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been on the trails and seen men wearing a women’s backpack (usually the Osprey 50L). In my 3 hours at REI, I tried on both men’s and women’s packs. I actually preferred the men’s Gregory to the women’s specific pack. So if the women’s fit doesn’t work, or if you’re a man with a shorter torso, don’t be afraid to try on backpacks designed specifically for the opposite sex.

If you have any questions about choosing a backpacking pack, you can leave a comment below or hit me up on Instagram: @michahastattoos. Have anything to add, shoot me a message! I’d love to hear from you.

Hike safe and see you on the trails!