What size backpack do you need?
Too small and your gear will not fit, too big and you will fill it with things you do not need. Match the pack to the trip, in liters.
Look for about
a 45 to 55 L pack works for this trip
That puts you in multi-day pack territory. Size to your gear, not the other way around, and leave a little room rather than buying too big.
Backpack size by trip length
Typical volumes for 3-season trips with an average kit. Go smaller if you pack light, larger for winter or if you carry comfort items.
| Trip | Pack size | Class |
|---|---|---|
| Day hike | 15 to 30 L | Daypack |
| Overnight (1 night) | 35 to 45 L | Overnight pack |
| Weekend (2 to 3 nights) | 45 to 55 L | Overnight pack |
| Multi-day (4 to 6 nights) | 60 to 70 L | Multi-day pack |
| Extended (7+ nights) | 70 L and up | Expedition pack |
Flying with it? Check it against the airline carry-on limits first. See also how we research and rate.
The picks at the two common answers
Most results land in one of two bands. If you came out under 30 liters, the Osprey Talon 22 is our best-overall daypack. If you came out at 50 liters or more, the Gregory Paragon 60 is our best all-around multi-day pack. See all pack picks →
Best for: Hikers who want a proven all-around daypack with solid load support, plenty of adjustment, and a warranty they can actually use.
- Adjustable torso fit covers a wide range of body sizes
- At 2 lb 1 oz it runs heavier than ultralight rivals for the same volume
- Volume
- 22 L
- Weight
- 2 lb 1 oz (945 g)
- Back Panel
- AirScape foam with ventilation channels
- Hipbelt Pockets
- 2 zippered
- Hydration
- Compatible up to 3 L reservoir (sold separately)
- Warranty
- All Mighty Guarantee (lifetime repair or replace)
About this pick
The Talon 22 is the daypack you see on the trail more than any other for good reason: it packs in a padded hipbelt, adjustable torso harness, and dual hipbelt pockets into a 22-liter package that handles loads up to 20 lb without complaint. Owners across hundreds of Amazon ratings consistently cite its adjustability and durability as standouts.
Strengths
- Adjustable torso fit covers a wide range of body sizes
- Padded hipbelt and dual hipbelt pockets at this size are rare
- Osprey lifetime warranty backs years of hard use
Weaknesses
- At 2 lb 1 oz it runs heavier than ultralight rivals for the same volume
- AirScape back panel ventilation is functional but not class-leading compared to suspended-mesh designs
Kit Score breakdown
GREGORY
Gregory Paragon 60 Backpacking Pack
BEST ALL-AROUND
Kit Score 8.7/10
$299.95 Price checked Oct 23, 6:22 AM CDT
Best for: Backpackers who want one lighter framed pack for weekend to week-long three-season trips.
- Best overall at CleverHiker and GearJunkie
- Padded mesh back sits against you, warmer than the Atmos's suspended mesh
- Capacity
- 60 L
- Weight
- 3.72 lb (MD/LG)
- Torso fit
- 18–22 in (MD/LG); SM/MD also sold
- Hip belt
- 27–53 in, FreeFloat dynamic hip belt
- Max load
- 50 lb
- Women's version
- Gregory Maven 58
About this pick
The Paragon 60 is the best all-around pack for backpackers who want less weight without giving up a real frame. Gregory lists 60 liters at 3.72 lb with a 50 lb max load, an adjustable torso, and a FreeFloat hip belt that moves with your stride. CleverHiker and GearJunkie both name it their best overall backpacking pack; the Maven 58 is the women's version.
Strengths
- Best overall at CleverHiker and GearJunkie
- Under 4 lb with a 50 lb max load
- Adjustable torso and a wide 27 to 53 inch hip belt range
Weaknesses
- Padded mesh back sits against you, warmer than the Atmos's suspended mesh
- 60 L is tight for a bear canister plus winter layers
Kit Score breakdown
Researched, not personally tested: picks come from specs, verified-owner reviews, and expert sources, scored into the Kit Score. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from links here, at no extra cost to you. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. How we research →
Frequently asked questions
What size backpack do I need for a day hike?
A day hike usually needs 15 to 30 liters. Around 20 L carries water, snacks, a layer, and the ten essentials, while 30 L or more suits big-mileage days, winter layers, or carrying gear for others.
Is a 40L backpack big enough for a weekend?
For a light, warm-weather overnight or weekend, 40 L can work if you pack carefully. Most people are more comfortable with 45 to 55 L for two to three nights once a sleeping bag, pad, food, and a tent go in.
What does L (liters) mean on a backpack?
Liters measure a pack's internal volume, not its weight. A 50 L pack holds 50 liters of gear. Higher liters mean more capacity, which is why trip length and season, not just personal preference, drive the right number.
What size pack for 3 to 5 day backpacking?
Plan on roughly 50 to 70 liters for multi-day backpacking. The exact number depends on how bulky your sleep system is, whether you carry winter layers, and how much food you need between resupplies.
Can I use a backpacking pack for travel?
Yes, and for one-bag travel a 35 to 45 L pack is the sweet spot: large enough for a week of clothes, small enough to carry on most airlines. Check the carry-on size limit for your airline before you fly.
More free tools
Base-Weight BuilderAdd up your pack base weight and see where to cut.
Hiking Water CalculatorHow much water to carry for the distance and the heat.Layering AdvisorWhat to wear on the trail, from temperature, effort, wind, and rain.
Sleeping-Bag WarmthWill you be warm enough? Bag rating plus pad and clothing.Embed this tool on your site (free)
Paste this where you want the tool to appear. It is free to use with a small credit link back to Kit Authority.
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