Hiking is an excellent way to experience the great outdoors while getting some exercise. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, having the right gear is essential.
One of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need is a rucksack. In this blog post, we’ll explore what a rucksack is and its importance in hiking.
What is a rucksack?
Simply put, a rucksack is a backpack used for hiking. However, it is not just any backpack. A good quality rucksack should have ample space to carry all your gear and be comfortable enough to wear for an extended period. Additionally, they are designed to distribute weight evenly on your back, making it easier to carry heavy loads.
When looking for a rucksack, you’ll want to consider the size of the pack. Depending on your hiking experience and how long you plan to be out, you may need a larger or smaller pack. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that your rucksack has enough space to carry all the gear you need, but not too much that you’re carrying unnecessary weight.
Another essential feature of a rucksack is the support system. A good support system will take the weight off your back and distribute it throughout the pack. Look for a rucksack with a padded back and shoulder straps, and a waist belt to help take some of the weight off your back and transfer it to your hips.
When hiking, having a comfortable and well-fitted rucksack will make all the difference. You’ll be able to enjoy the scenery without feeling weighed down and uncomfortable. Additionally, a rucksack with pockets and compartments will keep your gear organized and close at hand.
Key factors in choosing a hiking rucksack
1. Capacity
Before selecting a hiking rucksack, consider the duration of your hike and what items you’ll need to pack. If you’re planning a day hike, you’ll need a smaller pack with a capacity of around 20 to 30 liters. On the other hand, if you’re planning a multi-day hike, a pack with a capacity of 50 liters or more will be necessary. Remember to choose a pack with a capacity that can accommodate all your essential gear comfortably.
2. Comfort
You’ll be carrying your hiking rucksack for extended periods, so you’ll need a pack with comfortable straps and adequate padding. Look for packs that have adjustable straps that can fit your body’s contours to ensure a comfortable fit. You’d also want to consider a pack with adequate ventilation, which can help in reducing sweat build-up and allow air to circulate around your back.
3. Weight
The weight of your hiking rucksack matters. You wouldn’t want to carry a heavy pack that adds unnecessary strain to your back and shoulders. Look for lightweight rucksacks that don’t compromise on durability or comfort. A lightweight pack will take some weight off your body and help you conserve energy.
4. Durability
Hiking rucksacks are prone to wear and tear, so you’ll need a pack that can withstand the harsh conditions of your journey. A durable pack is not only reliable but also cost-effective as it will last longer. Look for packs made from tough materials such as nylon, polyester, or Cordura. You’d also want to consider a pack with sturdy zippers, buckles, and reinforced seams.
5. Additional Features
Extra features can make your hiking experience more convenient and enjoyable. Look for packs with additional pockets for easy access to water bottles or snacks. Consider rucksacks that come with rain covers or compartments for storing a hydration bladder. Some backpacks have compression straps, which help stabilize the load and prevent items from shifting as you move.
Determining rucksack size and capacity
1. Determine Your Trip Length
The first step in determining the right rucksack size and capacity is to determine the length of your trip. For a day trip, you will only need a small rucksack with a capacity of around 20-30 liters. However, for a longer trip, such as a multi-day camping trip, you will need a larger rucksack with a capacity of 40-80 liters.
2. Consider Your Gear and Supplies
Next, you need to consider the gear and supplies that you will be bringing on your trip. The more gear you have, the larger your rucksack will need to be. If you plan to bring a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking equipment, you will need a larger rucksack with a capacity of at least 50 liters. On the other hand, if you plan to stay in a hotel or hostel and only need to bring a change of clothes and some snacks, a smaller rucksack with a capacity of 20-30 liters will suffice.
3. Think About Your Body Type
Another important factor to consider when choosing a rucksack size is your body type. The size and shape of your body will affect the fit of your rucksack and ultimately, your comfort. When trying on rucksacks, make sure to adjust the straps and hip belt to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. It is also essential to consider features such as the back panel, ventilation, and padding to ensure maximum comfort.
4. Check the Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of a rucksack is another factor to consider when choosing the right size. The weight capacity refers to the maximum weight that the rucksack can carry without causing damage to the seams and stitching. Most rucksacks have a weight capacity of around 15-20 kilograms, but it is always best to check the manufacturer’s recommendations before purchasing.
5. Look for Additional Features
Lastly, when choosing a rucksack, look for additional features that will make your trip more comfortable and convenient. Features such as multiple compartments, external pockets, and hydration systems can make a huge difference. Consider what features are most important to you and choose a rucksack that has those features.
Features for specific hike types
Day Hikes
For day hikes, you’ll want to choose a rucksack that’s lightweight, comfortable, and spacious enough to carry all of your essentials. Look for a pack with a hydration system, which allows you to store water in a separate compartment and drink through a tube without having to stop and take off your pack. A pack with multiple pockets and compression straps will help keep your gear organized and secure, and a padded back panel and shoulder straps will distribute the weight evenly and prevent discomfort.
Overnight Hikes
Overnight hikes require more gear, so you’ll need a larger rucksack to carry all of your essentials. Look for a pack with a capacity of 40-60 liters, which will provide enough space for your sleeping bag, tent, food, and other gear. A pack with an adjustable frame, hip belt, and shoulder straps will help you balance the load and prevent discomfort, and a pack with a rain cover will keep your gear dry in case of bad weather.
Winter Hikes
Winter hikes require extra gear to stay warm and safe, so you’ll need a rucksack that’s designed to handle the additional weight and volume. Look for a pack with a capacity of 45-75 liters, which will provide enough space for cold-weather gear such as snowshoes, crampons, and extra layers. A pack with an external frame, ice axe loops, and multiple attachment points will help you carry your gear safely and securely, and a pack with a waterproof lining or cover will help keep your gear dry in snowy conditions.
Multi-Day Hikes
For multi-day hikes, you’ll need a larger rucksack with a capacity of 60-90 liters, which will provide enough space for all of your gear and supplies. Look for a pack with an adjustable frame and shoulder straps, a padded hip belt, and multiple pockets and compartments to help you stay organized. A pack with a built-in rain cover will keep your gear dry in case of a sudden downpour, and a pack with compression straps will help you balance the load and prevent discomfort.
Rucksack styles for different activities
Before we dive into the different rucksack styles, it’s important to mention that you need to choose a rucksack that’s the right size for your needs. If you’re hiking for a day and don’t need to carry much, a 20-30 liter rucksack should suffice. However, if you’re hiking for several days or need to carry more gear, you’ll want to opt for a larger rucksack, usually in the 40-60 liter range.
Now let’s take a look at the three different rucksack styles and their best suited hiking activities:
1. Day Hiking Rucksacks
Day hiking rucksacks are typically smaller, lightweight, and designed to carry essentials for shorter hikes. These rucksacks usually have an internal hydration bladder and a few pockets for water bottles and snacks. They’re also designed to be more breathable with padded back panels. Day hiking rucksacks have a capacity of around 20-35 liters and weigh less than 2 pounds. Best of all, they’re the most affordable of the three types.
2. Overnight Hiking Rucksacks
If you’re planning an overnight or weekend hiking trip, you’ll need more gear than a daypack can handle. Overnight rucksacks are designed to comfortably hold everything you need for an extended trip, such as sleeping bags, tents, and cooking gear. They have a capacity of around 40-65 liters and weigh around three pounds. They also have more compartments, access points, zippered pockets, and attachment points than daypacks.
3. Trekking Rucksacks
When it comes to longer, multi-day hikes or backpacking adventures, you need a robust and durable rucksack that can endure tough conditions. Trekking and expedition rucksacks are designed for long-distance, multi-day hikes and climbing expeditions. At capacities upwards of 65 liters, they need to be sturdy, comfortable, and built for extended use. Trekking rucksacks have load-bearing hip belts, reinforced shoulder straps, and frames to help distribute weight more evenly.
Selecting durable rucksack materials
1. Nylon
Nylon is a popular material for making rucksacks since it’s lightweight, water-resistant, and durable. The material is also easy to clean and dries quickly. Nylon rucksacks have a sleek and modern design, which makes them popular among college students and travelers. However, Nylon is not the best material if you plan on using the rucksack in rugged terrain since it’s not as durable as other materials.
2. Polyester
If you’re looking for a rucksack that can withstand the toughest conditions, then polyester is your best bet. Polyester is abrasion-resistant, water-resistant, and highly durable. It’s an affordable option and can last for years if well-maintained. However, polyester rucksacks are relatively heavier than Nylon rucksacks.
3. Canvas
Canvas is an excellent material for rucksacks, mainly due to its durability and ruggedness. Canvas rucksacks have a classic and timeless design that appeals to many people. The material is also breathable and repels water, making it ideal for use in wet conditions. However, canvas rucksacks tend to be heavier than Nylon and polyester rucksacks.
4. Leather
Leather is a material that exudes class and elegance. Leather rucksacks have a unique vintage look that’s perfect for those who want to stand out. The material is highly durable and can withstand rigorous use. However, leather rucksacks tend to be relatively expensive and require specialized care to maintain their quality.
5. Dyneema
Dyneema is a relatively new material that is fast gaining popularity in the rucksack scene. The material is stronger than steel, yet lightweight, making it ideal for rucksack construction. Dyneema rucksacks are highly durable and water-resistant, making them perfect for use in harsh weather conditions. However, Dyneema rucksacks are significantly more expensive than other rucksack materials.
Are hydration features important in a rucksack?
Avoid Dehydration
Dehydration is definitely not something you want to be experiencing on an outdoor adventure, yet it can be so easy to forget sipping water during long hikes or walks. Hydration features in your rucksack make it easy for you to keep hydrating whenever you need to. Most hydration packs come with a water reservoir that stores water inside the backpack, while a tube and mouthpiece extend outside the bag for sipping with ease. With hydration features in your rucksack, you can stay hydrated throughout your adventure without having to rely on finding fresh sources of water.
Stay Hydrated Without Stopping
When you’re on-the-go, stopping to take water breaks might not be feasible. In such situations, hydration features in your rucksack come to the rescue. With a hydration pack, you can effortlessly sip water on the move without stopping to dig through your rucksack. The hose of the hydration pack can be positioned wherever you prefer- on your shoulder strap or near your mouth, allowing you to stay hydrated without breaking your stride.
Save Energy
Water is a critical component for keeping our mind and body functioning correctly. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, thereby negatively affecting your performance, mood, and overall safety. The simple act of taking refreshing sips of water from your hydration-enabled rucksack can keep you energized and alert in different weather conditions and strenuous activities.
Hydration Features to Look Out For
When shopping for a rucksack with hydration features, you’ll come across several hydration packs of different sizes, styles, and designs. Some things to consider when choosing your hydration sleeve rucksack include: the size of the water reservoir, the quality of the tube and mouthpiece, ease of cleaning, and the insulation performance.
What about waterproofing for a hiking rucksack?
1. Protect your gear
A hiking rucksack is not just an ordinary backpack that requires less protection. Hikers carry expensive gear, including camera equipment, sleeping bags, mobile phones, and batteries, which are all prone to damage from moisture. Water-resistant rucksacks offer excellent protection to your gear, bringing peace of mind. A simple rain shower can quickly damage any electronics or cause hypothermia if you’re sleeping in a wet sleeping bag.
2. Rain protection
The most apparent advantage of a waterproof rucksack is keeping the rain from getting into it. A waterproof rucksack is ideal for keeping your gear dry, even when it’s raining cats and dogs. You can enjoy the hiking experience without worrying about your gear getting soaked, damaged, or weighed down by water. A waterproof backpack will keep your essentials dry, from your passport to your clothes, to ensure safe hiking.
3. Durability
A good thing about waterproof hiking rucksacks is the durability they offer. The materials used to make waterproof rucksacks are premium quality, and the extra waterproof layer offers better protection, extending a rucksack’s life. When using a backpack that isn’t waterproof, you might have to replace it frequently, as it might tear, get musty or deteriorate due to moisture. However, with waterproof rucksacks, you can use them for extended periods.
4. Versatility
Waterproof rucksacks come in all shapes and sizes, making them suitable for all kinds of outdoor adventures. They can hold all essential gear, making them perfect for hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking and more. Some waterproof rucksacks are also perfect for carrying your wet gear, making them multi-functional. You won’t have to worry about accidental spills since the waterproof layer protects your gear from moisture.
5. Comfort
Waterproof rucksacks are made of lightweight but sturdy materials that offer excellent comfort. They have padded shoulder straps and a rigid frame that keeps your gear from bouncing around while you hike. The waterproof layer ensures you have a comfortable trip without carrying a soaking wet bag.
Final Words
A rucksack is an essential piece of gear for hikers, but not all rucksacks are created equal. When purchasing a rucksack, consider the size, support system, and comfort level. Having the right rucksack will make all the difference in having an enjoyable and successful hiking experience. With the right rucksack, you’ll be ready to head out on the trail and explore the great outdoors.