When you’re going for a hike, having the right gear is essential. Even short hikes demand that you carry at least a water bottle, some snacks, and your daily necessities, like keys and a wallet. Longer excursions require even more preparation and gear—and having the right outdoor backpack ensures you’ll be able to carry it all comfortably and securely. Here’s what you need to know about choosing your next hiking pack.
Why Reliable Outdoor Gear Matters
A reliable and high-quality outdoor backpack allows you to pack more than just what fits in your pockets, like water, food, and a jacket. You may also want room for binoculars, a camera, or even a hammock. Good hiking backpacks make carrying your gear far more comfortable because they typically have ergonomic designs and quality materials that breathe better and provide more cushioning and support.
The right backpack is versatile enough to be used for outdoor activities or while traveling and durable enough to withstand heavy use. Whether you’re going for an easy stroll along a local trail or exploring the National Parks, a backpack is a must-have.
What Makes a Good Outdoor and Hiking Backpack
Comfort
Many backpacks that aren’t designed with hikes in mind shouldn’t be taken on the trails at all. Even if the pack you carry on campus or into the office can fit all your gear, it’s not designed for outdoor comfort and performance. Good hiking backpacks have shoulder pads and back support to distribute weight evenly across the body, maximizing comfort and minimizing stress and strain. You may also want an air channel, which allows the backpack to breathe and reduces the discomfort caused by sweating from contact and exertion.
Durability
Over the years, a hiking backpack will get stuffed with gear, snagged on branches, and exposed to gravel and dirt. That’s why good outdoor gear is built to last and made of highly durable materials that can hold up under a variety of conditions. Thick or tear-resistant fabrics are common, as are waterproofing and firm stitching.
Common Challenges When Looking For the Right Outdoor Backpack
Storage
Backpacks come in a variety of sizes and storage capacities, so it’s important to find the right one for your adventures. If you’re only doing small afternoon hikes, an oversized bag will be heavy and cumbersome; on the other hand, a small backpack will leave you without enough space to pack for a long day trip or an overnight hike.
Before buying, it’s crucial to determine how you’ll be using your bag and what you’ll want to bring. Choose a bag that fits everything you need and keeps everything compact for easier carrying.
Fit
Since backpacks come in different capacities, it stands to reason that they’ll also feel different to carry. Comfort is subjective, but the backpack should fit securely without limiting mobility. The most important measurements are torso length, chest width, and hip size. Your hiking backpack should be adjustable to fit snugly in each area with different amounts of cargo.
Finding the right fit ensures maximum comfort, so be sure to measure with different amounts of seasonal clothing and look for adjustable straps that can accommodate those layers.
Why Able Carry Should Be Your Next Outdoor Backpack
Every Able Carry bag is made with practicality in mind. We’re known for our durable fabrics and construction, as well as the support built into each bag. Best of all, there’s an Able Carry backpack for every type of hiker.
If you take shorter walks along the trails in your local park, the Thirteen Daybag is an excellent choice. This 13-liter outdoor backpack can fit everything you’ll need for the day, and its pockets help keep gear organized. It comes with a water-resistant coating to keep it safe from the elements and high-quality zippers and fabric. Don’t let its size fool you: This is a sturdy and trustworthy bag, even when packed to the brim.
When you’re planning a full day of hiking, the Daily Plus offers all the capacity and function you need with the addition of a supportive A-frame for maximum comfort. The Daily Plus bag also takes storage organization to the next level with additional pockets and sleeves, including a handy hidden bottle pocket.
Need a bag for the long haul? The Daybreaker 2 is your best bet. This ultra-light backpack is made for adventure thanks to the durable exterior options (available in both cordura ripstop & X-pac nylon) and 25L capacity—including a stealth bottle pocket to help keep you hydrated. The shoulder padding and back support allow for all-day comfort, while the air channel provides much-needed ventilation to prevent sweating and overheating.
We stand by our bags and are sure you will, too. Try one for 14 days to be sure it’s the right fit; if it’s not, just send it back and try another style. We also offer a lifetime guarantee on craftsmanship to ensure every bag is up to the task, no matter what your lifestyle has in store.
