How to choose the right size backpack first time!

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  • Опубліковано 29 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 116

  • @wr1120
    @wr1120 Рік тому +52

    As a beginner I chose a massive backpack and I never regretted it, in fact I only bought a second smaller one 25 years later. The reason is that back in the nineties I didn't do much hiking but I went on trips abroad for weeks by public transport to youth hostels and bed & breakfasts. So I didn't stuff it so much with tent and sleeping back but with clean clothes. And if I did go camping, it was on stationary locations, not walking around, so the sleeping back and mat could be carried at the outside for the first day. The point is that you can't fix it when your backpack is too small, while you're just walking around with extra air if it's too big.

  • @raytaylor4199
    @raytaylor4199 Рік тому +14

    I’ve got the Atmos AG 50 & 65, I’m 5ft9 slim/medium build and I have to say I honestly prefer the 50 litre, I’ve managed to fit everything I need in there using all the external fasteners, this includes the Fjallraven Abisko Dome 2, Rab Ascent 900 sleeping bag, Big Agnes rapide SL wide, Jetboil, clothes, food and accessories, just about fits everything in for 1 to 2 nights wild camping, it is tight but much more balanced and gives you the ability to travel further more comfortably, luckily I do have my girlfriend who has the 50 litre too so it makes it a bit easier for us. When I began my journey a year ago my thought process was completely different, get the biggest possible bag lol, now that I tried both I’d rather aim to reduce my load than to fill a 65 litre 😊

  • @backpackingireland8624
    @backpackingireland8624 Рік тому +17

    Great video Andy . Very good advice. I’ve dialed into my 48L Kestrel. A few tips ! Get a waterproof liner to take sleeping system. I fill every corner of the bag with this way . I never use compression sack . I strap Helm 2 at the top . Vango seat strapped to bottom . Clothes , cookset , food , bits and bobs throughout in hip pack pockets and lid . Poles for tent in side compartment. It’s about 14kg . Compact and easily carried . Less is more for sure 🙌👌🇮🇪

  • @boxiedog
    @boxiedog Рік тому +82

    Good advice here, but in over 50 years of hiking & camping, I have never ever packed my tent in my rucksack/backpack. I live in Scotland.. it never goes away dry so lives on the outside.

    • @3imaginaryboys1972
      @3imaginaryboys1972 Рік тому +1

      Exactly..same with sleeping bag n any mats thst aren't blow ups....I just don't get it

    • @sianach
      @sianach Рік тому +17

      @@3imaginaryboys1972you should never put your sleeping bag on the outside, ever. If it gets wet ur screwed

    • @3imaginaryboys1972
      @3imaginaryboys1972 Рік тому +7

      @@sianach dry bag dude

    • @TheMountainMan001
      @TheMountainMan001 11 місяців тому

      @@3imaginaryboys1972been curious about this myself, will a dry bag keep it completely dry or does it depend on the quality? I’d personally prefer my sleep system strapped to the outside to reserve space in my backpack… just wondering what dry bags you’d recommend & what is the best way to secure to your pack? Cheers

    • @uncensored393
      @uncensored393 8 місяців тому +2

      ​@@TheMountainMan001put a bin bag around it before it goes in the dry bag. Will keep it waterproof

  • @karlbratby4349
    @karlbratby4349 Рік тому +9

    when starting out, surely it's best to get the majority of your chosen gear with season usage and weight in mind and when got the majority of the gear, tot up the weight (ISH) then get a backpack to suit, get it home pack it and see how it works, if not big enough or too big then back to the shop to exchange, as long as a good shop they wont have an issue. or that is my ex-military brain thinking. but on the whole two packs one for quick and easy say 35/36 is good for a one night excercise and for multi nights a 55/60L... great video again Andy...

    • @jesterxfan
      @jesterxfan 11 місяців тому

      Absolutely correct.

  • @trevormegson7583
    @trevormegson7583 Рік тому +4

    Gave up tents a few years ago, but had much fun and wild camping memories for both my children and I. I tend to book cabins at my age now (60). have a 65 ltr and still manage to stuff it to the gills.

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  Рік тому +4

      You did well lasting till 60, I aim to be in cabins by 50 😂

  • @varunreddykamireddy2312
    @varunreddykamireddy2312 8 місяців тому +5

    I always will want the largest rucksack possible. Because they're pretty good with compression systems. When mostly empty, I compress mine to the tightest possible, and make the footprint smaller. Will always have room for more stuff when needed.

  • @GeorgeBeck100
    @GeorgeBeck100 Рік тому +6

    All great advice Andy. People tend to start off by carrying a house on their back and soon realize they need to pack lighter. I got the Atmos 65L for multi day hikes (which would have been perfect if you could still remove the top). I also have the Talon 33L for day hikes or overnight in a hut. But going UltraLight with a base weight of 7kg (including tent) for 2 season multi day tramping I think I will get the Exos 48L.

  • @tweedyoutdoors
    @tweedyoutdoors Рік тому +4

    Thanks that was really helpful! Every time I go for a wild camp I struggle to squeeze everything into a 45L Osprey Levity, particularly in winter as I have a synthetic bag/quilt which is great but a bit bulky. I really should have just gone for the 60L version in the first place and stopped kidding myself that I'm some sort of minimalist ultralight backpacker.

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  Рік тому +4

      I think in the ideal world you need 2, one for winter and one for summer.

    • @tweedyoutdoors
      @tweedyoutdoors Рік тому +1

      @@BackpackingUK Good point! It didn't seem quite so much of a struggle to get everything in last summer.

  • @marksephton2333
    @marksephton2333 Рік тому +3

    Really good advice!!!! Very clear explanations with some great insights on the different capacities of the same range.....every day is a school day lol!

  • @arturobayangos1223
    @arturobayangos1223 4 місяці тому +2

    i agree ‘ if in doubt go big ‘ .

  • @thewanderingforester
    @thewanderingforester Рік тому +3

    Gear is an absolute minefield, especially for beginners. Probably whatever you buy first will get replaced after a bit of experience and more knowledge of what kind of adventure you enjoy. But good advice in here, sure to be very helpful. ATB, roger

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  Рік тому +2

      No doubt you're right but I hope some people will be able to buy the right bag first time!

  • @RandomCryptoHodler
    @RandomCryptoHodler 4 місяці тому

    Good advice for people. Some people have big tents and some have ultralite. Some have single person tents and others four. Just so much gear with different sizes.

  • @darkshaman7087
    @darkshaman7087 11 місяців тому +1

    Myself prefers a 65l even if not carrying to heavy as there is plenty of room for sleeping bags etc as somethings can be puffy and the longer im out the more I need to carry

  • @rodoutdoors
    @rodoutdoors Рік тому +2

    The more gear collected, the more ways to play with different loadouts😅. I just picked up the Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40-60 and like it so far with its adjustable pack size. I was using the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 and it's great as well. I have a smaller GG Vagabond Trail 22L which I'm thinking of using for more ultralight trips during the Summer but mostly used as a day pack. It's nice to have options based on the activity, mood, or conditions. Thanks.

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  Рік тому

      I tried that pack at the outdoor show, I think it's a clever design.

  • @davidjpeacock
    @davidjpeacock 9 місяців тому +5

    Learning to camp with a tarp instead of a tent is the key! ☺️

    • @gufolo-fi7242
      @gufolo-fi7242 5 місяців тому

      How do you do with humidity?

  • @jjjow5092
    @jjjow5092 Рік тому +2

    Absolutely brilliant video Andy. Really helpful. Thank you. 👍

  • @rogerhudson9732
    @rogerhudson9732 3 місяці тому

    I still have a mid 1970s Camp Trails Astral Cruiser magnesium alloy pack frame with the Royal Marines Arctic Bergen bag, not really heavy and about 40L.

  • @norseman1137
    @norseman1137 18 днів тому

    That's such a good video for beginners mate...

  • @jasonli5398
    @jasonli5398 Рік тому +1

    thx for the tip, bro. i'll go big for the 65.

  • @ibizenco
    @ibizenco 8 місяців тому +3

    My first backpack (a Forclaz MT500 Air) is a 60+10 L, and it could have been a little larger.
    "If in doubt, go big." Very good advice.

  • @Thedagda801
    @Thedagda801 Місяць тому

    I’ve a few backpacks, I chose according to what I’m doing!

  • @TheDonkeycong
    @TheDonkeycong Рік тому +1

    Well explained Andy. Great help.

  • @kevintaylor5656
    @kevintaylor5656 Рік тому +1

    Have you done an ultimate winter camping bag pack???

  • @Crazyoldman84
    @Crazyoldman84 2 місяці тому

    Kelty fury 35 is a really good day and overnight pack for a budget price.

  • @loripage5477
    @loripage5477 Рік тому +1

    Really good and practical advice. Thank you!

  • @andyadamson930
    @andyadamson930 Рік тому

    I got a 44L and once i put the sleeping bag in theres not much more room, the tent which is a vango orion 2man has to go on the outside. The space inside isnt even enough to hold a 3 litre water bladder. So im going for a 65L. I'll keep the 44L for when i go tarp camping but even then theres not going to be much soace in it.

  • @merlin8166
    @merlin8166 Рік тому +3

    Timely video for me Andy, I just got the Osprey Exos Pro 55 after seeing your review of the Levity 60, for a lighter set-up in Spring/Summer, also have the Kestrel 68. Will you be doing one that covers best time to buy kit ?

  • @jamesshepherd7727
    @jamesshepherd7727 9 місяців тому

    For most of the yr that isnt freezing at night I can use a 40 liter pack with no issues. Food for 10 days and it all fits nice and compact. The problem comes when you hike where bear canisters are required. They are huge and are uncomfortable to carry and as you deplete your food they stay huge and uncomfortable. I would have to go all the way up to a 65 to carry a canister. So that is another consideration in your pack size. The trekking pole tents are great at being compact. If you use trekking poles its a no brainer. I personally use hammocks and can also put them on the ground if need be and use trekking poles to hold up the ridge line.

  • @laurencecook7652
    @laurencecook7652 Рік тому

    Enjoying my exos 58 -out with it right now. Good size - not too small. Don't need to always fill it to the brim....

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  Рік тому

      That's the secret, not always filling it when you don't need to!

  • @BENTWOONEZERO
    @BENTWOONEZERO Рік тому

    I was in decathlon today, they have 3KG sacks to put in the Rucksacks.

  • @forsdykemontague1017
    @forsdykemontague1017 Рік тому

    I’ve got a 45l DLX, 1 man tent, pad, stove, bag, food, spare clothes and water no problem. Weighs about 12 kg, good for 2 nights out 😂

  • @Philip_Taylor
    @Philip_Taylor Рік тому +2

    I never thought it'd be so difficult to choose, but it's a nightmare.
    Basically, I want one with sensible buckles on the top, bottom and sides, for attaching extra things onto. Aside from that, just a REMOVABLE hip strap if at all possible (seemingly not so). A lot of these products are what I call hyper-modern in their approach, but all I'm after is something designed to be simple, effective and tough.

    • @louislautz8838
      @louislautz8838 Рік тому +1

      This might be a late answer, but I think the Savotta Jääkäri line ticks all those boxes. Savotta is a Finnish company and the Jääkäri line was designed as an unissued military option. They are simple in that they dont have any internal compartments and only a few on the outside. Instead they rely on customizability through a molle system. They have straps absolutely everywhere and are as sturdy as backpacks can be.
      Not the cheapest option and certainly not the lightest ones either, but I think they are great if you want to buy one backpack and use it for life :D

    • @Philip_Taylor
      @Philip_Taylor Рік тому

      Thank you. :) @@louislautz8838

  • @JV-ko6ov
    @JV-ko6ov 3 місяці тому

    Living in Canada I need to bring a lot of clothes outside of july/august

  • @suzsiz
    @suzsiz 7 місяців тому +1

    Not sure if I should Get 48 or 58L. Im going on a longer trekking, but Im just taking my sleeping bag (not tent). I want to try to size down and not take onto much weight but afraid 48 L will be too small.

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  7 місяців тому +1

      If you’re not going in winter and not taking a tent the 48L should be fine.

    • @suzsiz
      @suzsiz 7 місяців тому +1

      @@BackpackingUK i decided with 58 becus the bag I chose from Osprey Kyte has an own compartment for the sleeping bag which I found useful. Also Norway is cold, Even in summer ;) your video was very useful, Thanks

  • @EdwardHurst2323
    @EdwardHurst2323 11 місяців тому

    Great advice ❤

  • @SMclintosh
    @SMclintosh 2 місяці тому

    Great video!

  • @kevintaylor5656
    @kevintaylor5656 Рік тому

    What's the best size and Osprey bag for winter overnight?? Kestrel 48 65?? Etc etc

  • @duelfreak4359
    @duelfreak4359 11 місяців тому

    just brought a OEX Vallo 60 from gooutdoors member price plus 20 percent of 77 pounds thought was a bargain - its to replace my 40l rucksack as i realised 40l is way to small for UK wild camping, however just seem some reviews and people say the shoulder strap breaks easily... has anyone else got this bag and can confirm this or are they just overloading the bag like you talked about in the video

  • @anthony342
    @anthony342 6 годин тому

    i need one that will hold dumb bell weights . about 20 kgs

  • @o.brygier2364
    @o.brygier2364 Рік тому +1

    Hi Andy, great advice for beginners! Incase one becomes a frequent hiker, one will end up with a collection of backpacks from 38 - 65 or more liters (like you and me). By the way - will you review that Atmos LT 50 as well? I just ordered it . . .

  • @pbl7559
    @pbl7559 4 місяці тому

    Hi Andy....Bit of a fair weather camper, but have a few multi day hikes planned for next year ( Coast to Coast , Laugavegur trail in Iceland ) my tent at the moment is the Helm 2 and im slowly upgrading to lighter kit, also carry my drones with me whenever im out. Tried the Atmos 65 on other day and it felt so comfy, do you think that bag is too big for my needs?? any advice is welcome .....Thanks

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  4 місяці тому +2

      I'd say you'd be better off with a bigger bag. For instance, even if you did the Coast to Coast in the summer you're still going to need cold and wet weather gear. Unless you go full ultralight, you're going to need that extra space. Also, the Atmos with less weight in it is overkill BUT it's extremely comfy. Personally, comfort is more important than weight.

    • @pbl7559
      @pbl7559 4 місяці тому

      @BackpackingUK cheers Andy, think that's the one for me then

  • @hornethill7799
    @hornethill7799 Рік тому

    I'm very happy with my mac pac torless 65l ❤

    • @DineshKumar-pr8fo
      @DineshKumar-pr8fo 6 місяців тому

      Do u remember how much does it weigh while boarding a flight ?

  • @DJunclepaul2nd
    @DJunclepaul2nd Рік тому

    To save money im using a pack i already owned, but which i bought not knowing the 1st thing about backpacks! 35ltrs is not enough. It will just about get me out in summer. Aside from the size being too small, i think my back is a bit too long for it. Otherwise its actually a good pack, trecking pole holder too, although i had no idea what that bit was for when i bought it!

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  Рік тому +1

      It's easy to go small, and I don't blame anyone, there's plenty of unhelpful people on socials trying to show off with small packs and ultralight gear. In reality you really need 45-65.

  • @Starfox-zg4tk
    @Starfox-zg4tk Рік тому +1

    Is 45l small enough for a carry on

  • @dirtycommtroop
    @dirtycommtroop 8 місяців тому

    I bought a 65, then a 55, 45, and settled on a 35. For winter I use a 55.

  • @chrishandilankadesilva6955
    @chrishandilankadesilva6955 7 місяців тому

    Hi, I'm looking for a traditional hiking backpack 50 L what brand of backpack you recommend please..

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  7 місяців тому

      Personally, I prefer Osprey packs. Mainly due to comfort.

  • @bobbafett3050
    @bobbafett3050 7 місяців тому +1

    I have 20, 35, 50, 75, and 90 liter bags. Weather and trip duration are hell. If someone wanted to get by with fewer packs then I'd suggest a medium sized bag 40-60 liters with a floating lid and lashing points top or bottom. A sleeping bag will sit comfortable under a floating lid and a pad can be lashed outside if you need to overpack.

    • @M-zx3gk
      @M-zx3gk 4 місяці тому

      Any examples of that with a floating lid?

  • @blahblah5750
    @blahblah5750 Рік тому +1

    Thanks for this.

  • @darylfields
    @darylfields 2 місяці тому

    I'm a big guy and I need a big backpack for when I have to go to the store for groceries so I need a very large capacity

  • @lweleven3423
    @lweleven3423 2 місяці тому

    I’ve seen travel people with a 30l I’m not sure how they do it , I imagine undies sat in the laundry lol . I just got rid on my 30l prob going to get a 50 . I don’t fancy the weight of a 65+ . So I will make it work

  • @NaturallyWanderlust
    @NaturallyWanderlust 10 місяців тому

    I just bought my very first legit backpack. im planning to go on multiday spring, summer, autumn camping/backpacking trips. Im 5 feet tall and 100 pounds, super petite. and I went with an Osprey Aura AG LT 50, because I cant load myself as an average sized person would be naturally able to do. Have I made the right decision?

  • @RegEdmunds
    @RegEdmunds 3 місяці тому

    For me 45L. I have a 48L and I still can't fill it.

  • @flaviemontanino8468
    @flaviemontanino8468 8 місяців тому

    ist 40+10l enough for 1-2 weeks hiking in switzerland ?

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  8 місяців тому

      Not unless you’re going ultralight or all summer gear.

  • @JustBlondie
    @JustBlondie Рік тому

    I can’t decide between the Exos or Atom. I’ll be carrying around about 12kg+ I know the Exos is up to 15kg. Is it as comfy as the Atmos for around 12kg? I hope somebody can help because I’d love to know if the Exos will be comfy enough kept a few KGs below it’s max weight load as advertised.
    My tent will be a LanShan Pro 2. I don’t want to camp in winter, just the 3 seasons.

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  Рік тому +3

      Personally I wouldn’t choose to put 15kg in the Exos. I’d say 12kg max so you’re probably on the comfort limit there. No doubt people have put 15-20kg in there and claimed to be comfortable but for most people if won’t be comfortable after a short distance.

  • @alexmacaulay9550
    @alexmacaulay9550 3 місяці тому

    The bottom line is i have a 55 65 for summer and a 130 for winter as I have a ngt sleeping bag which weighs 3.5 kilo for 65 quid but if you have loads o cash you can get a decent goose or duck down for 150

  • @bluebellbeatnik4945
    @bluebellbeatnik4945 Місяць тому

    Good looking man!

  • @baggenstuff
    @baggenstuff 9 місяців тому +1

    Your tent is huge, it's almost the same size as my 5 person family car camping tent

  • @BenRobinson1974
    @BenRobinson1974 Рік тому

    30l with molle is the right size.

  • @dennisvandepol5938
    @dennisvandepol5938 9 місяців тому

    Great video, thank you so much! Your voice/accent kind of reminds me of Tom Hardy btw.. 😁👍

  • @ChloeGoodheart-xj2fy
    @ChloeGoodheart-xj2fy Рік тому

    Great video! Very helpful!
    I’m thinking about getting a 58L pack but am not sure if that will be big enough for a week or longer hike? Any advice?

    • @jessegeleyns388
      @jessegeleyns388 Рік тому +1

      Depending on your gear I'd personally go for atleast a 65L for a week or longer, one that works for all seasons of the year as it won't be often you go for a week one (presuming).

  • @3imaginaryboys1972
    @3imaginaryboys1972 Рік тому

    tent across top n lid,,,mat under bottom with straps or bungee,,sbag in waterproof n compression iether strapped on or hanging from top n rain cover round iit all,,,,,tentd bags do not need to go in a ll,,strap them on.

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  Рік тому

      No, no, no!!!! All in the bag my friend!

    • @3imaginaryboys1972
      @3imaginaryboys1972 Рік тому

      @BackpackingUK no no no. Ridiculous mate. Plenty other ways. Don't need to be everything but it's not the struggle you suggest because of the old school ways I suggest. I've been out the game 20 yrs n only back 6 months with my kids but I find this all in the bag malarkey pretty strange. Imo 🙃👌👍😉😊

  • @ralphdavidson2932
    @ralphdavidson2932 2 місяці тому

    why do you need to put tent in backpack it’s a tent it’s designed to be outside

    • @BackpackingUK
      @BackpackingUK  2 місяці тому

      Absolutely not. Weight should always be close to your back, not hanging of the back of the pack. I’ve never understood why people buy small packs and then have tents, dry bags and gear hanging off them.

    • @ralphdavidson2932
      @ralphdavidson2932 2 місяці тому

      I also don’t like to see items hanging off rucksacks but during that spring/summer/autumn transition I don’t mind putting my tent on outside to facilitate some extra layers /down jacket to boost sleeping bag inside rucksack without having a third rucksack

  • @bhootpurvmanusya
    @bhootpurvmanusya Місяць тому

    this man is tiny 65 is just as little as 50 for me
    70 is minimal if ur bagpacking out of country

  • @harryhthenorwegian476
    @harryhthenorwegian476 6 місяців тому +1

    Absolutely no experienced backpackers use Jetboil system. Too heavy and bulky. It's only great for CAR camping and the like when you don't need to carry it far. And why not strapping your tent outside of the backpack?

    • @michaelbutler1557
      @michaelbutler1557 5 місяців тому +1

      What complete nonsense. I have 51 years professional mountaineering, alpine and hiking experience and use Jetboils as do many professionals.

  • @richlondonrich
    @richlondonrich Рік тому +1

    Only 45 imo. Anything more is overkill.