Backpacking pack size

Jansport is what I used in high school

Take a look at Vaude backpacks. They have a great range of sizes and they have a bunch of accessories (multiple places for strapping bed mats, tents, rods, etc). Plus they're really adjustable. Just make sure you look at packs that have a solid backing (the part that hits your back). And...if you want to stay comfortable....look for a pack that has some ventilation on the back as well.

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.

I have a Gossamer Gear Gorilla. I think it’s 45 liter. That depends on if you get large or medium torso.

I’ve done hundreds of miles with it. Two hundred on the Colorado trail this summer. Fly all over as a carry on.

Size really depends on how big other gear is. I wouldn’t carry more than 25 pounds with the Gorilla.

I have a Ula Catalyst for when I want to carry a little more. That’s mostly for trips with the kids and scouts. I bring more luxury things on those trips. Just hiking by myself my gorilla is almost too big for 5 days.

I am a Lowe Alpine fan.

I always go for a bigger backpack and can sinch it down if I don't need the space but want a good balanced arrangement.

Damn those gossamers look legit

I have the Atmos 34 and have done multiple weekend trips with it. You're going to have to be pretty minimalist, but its certainly doable. I have used it as a carry on as well. That being said, most trips I'm using a 55 liter bag because I like to bring beer and a few extras.

Most of the brands rate them differently. Like not including outside pockets and such. Check out some of the cottage brands as well. I love my ula ohm. Total weight comes into play as well.

That’s heavy for a small pack. Looks good though.

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That’s heavy for a small pack

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Its not lightweight for sure. The material is very heavy duty.

Been extremely durable.