re: Backpacking pack size

I use a Deuter Futura Pro 36. I got the 36 bc it meets the international carry on requirements. I mostly use it for traveling abroad. They also make a 42L. If you have modern ultralight equipment you can for sure fit everything in the 42.

I did a lot of research and there’s several YouTube vids of people packing stuff in different packs. I sized it to fit a week’s worth of clothes bc I’m never off the grid more than a week and if I can launder once a week I can travel for however long I like.

I feel pretty confident I can hike and solo camp for several days with only the 36, but I’d have to strap the tent to the outside. I’m talking sitting on a stump and eating MREs or protein bars type camping. If you’re camping involves a skillet and chairs you may want a bigger bag. When I do that type of camping I’m close enough to the truck that I only bring a daypack.

I haven’t tried the Osprey packs but people love them. They sort of scream noob backpacker and I don’t like how sleek they are but I think the farpoint is a pretty awesome travel bag and may end up with one. The Futura Pro was the most comfortable and I really needed something I could wear all day. Again, I intentionally sized down bc I know it’s big enough and will keep me from overpacking.

There’s probably a billion threads on lonely planet and travel blogs dedicated to backpack size, but I feel like they’re mostly instagram travelers bringing laptops and camera gear. I like to travel pretty light and enjoy the challenge. Some of the new gear is impressively light and small, but expensive. If you’re out often enough it’s worth it.