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Choosing a 100-litre hiking backpack: practical buying tips for walking, camping and travel

A 100-litre hiking backpack offers plenty of room for multi-day treks, camping, scouting, hunting or long-distance travel. However, a large capacity doesn’t automatically mean a backpack is comfortable to carry or suitable for wet British weather. A bag that’s too spacious can also tempt you to overpack, quickly adding to the total weight.

So don’t look at capacity alone. The fit, carrying system, choice of materials and fastening all play an equally important role in whether a large 100L backpack is practical to use.

Three common pitfalls when choosing a large backpack

1. Looking only at the number of litres

A capacity of 100 litres sounds appealing, but it tells you nothing about how the weight is distributed. A backpack without adjustable straps or a hip belt can feel heavy on your shoulders when fully loaded. So always check that it has wide shoulder straps, a hip belt and an adjustable chest strap.

2. Confusing “waterproof” with water-repellent

A coating doesn’t automatically make a material completely waterproof. The vidaXL model is described as having a water-repellent coating and being splash-resistant. That’s useful in light rain or when exposed to splashes, but a rain cover or waterproof inner bag is still a sensible choice for prolonged rain.

3. Confusing lots of pockets with good organisation

A large main compartment is useful for a sleeping bag, clothing and cooking equipment. Smaller pockets are handy for things you need to reach quickly, such as a torch, glasses or map. Make sure the zips, buckles and drawcords are easy to reach, too. A backpack with lots of compartments won’t necessarily be better organised if they’re poorly positioned.

What features should a 100-litre hiking backpack have?

Carrying comfort and weight distribution

For a fully loaded trekking backpack, a backpack with a hip belt is usually more practical than a simple daypack. A properly adjusted hip belt helps distribute some of the load around your pelvis. Check the width and padding of the shoulder straps, and make sure the back length suits your build.

A 100-litre backpack is best suited to situations where you need to carry a lot of kit. For a short walk, a smaller model may be lighter and more convenient. A trekking backpack of around 40 litres, for example, is intended for a different use from a large camping backpack.

Material and protection against wear and tear

A popular choice of material is 600D polyester. The “D” stands for denier, a measure of fibre thickness. It doesn’t tell you everything about how long the material will last, but 600D polyester is often used when abrasion resistance is important.

According to the product specifications, the vidaXL Military-Style Backpack XXL 100 L Black is made from 100% 600D polyester with a coating. The description says the material is hard-wearing and weather-resistant. When buying, always check exactly what the manufacturer means by water-repellent, splash-resistant or waterproof.

Fastenings, pockets and adjustability

A drawcord with a buckle fastening can close the main compartment without you having to open a long zip all the way. External pockets are also handy for things you need on the move. Check the dimensions, too: the model measures 42 × 21 × 78 cm when the base is fully extended and has a stated capacity of 100 litres.

This type of military-style backpack doesn’t have a laptop compartment. For the office, train travel or a daily commute, a laptop backpack makes more sense. For camping, hiking and outdoor activities, the simple layout may be all you need.

Recommended options for different types of users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
vidaXL Military-Style Backpack XXL 100 L Black

vidaXL Military-Style Backpack XXL 100 L Black

Why it suits this type of user: This large outdoor backpack is designed for anyone looking for plenty of capacity for camping, long-distance travel, scouting or walking, and who doesn’t need a laptop compartment.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications list a hip belt, wide padded shoulder straps and several pockets. The water-repellent coating isn’t presented as making the backpack completely waterproof.

Main benefit and key features

100-litre capacity, 600D polyester, adjustable height up to 78 cm, a large main compartment and seven listed storage pockets.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
PELLIOT Trekking Backpack Unisex Camping Travel Waterproof Durable 40L

PELLIOT Trekking Backpack Unisex Camping Travel Waterproof Durable 40L

Why it suits this type of user: For walkers who prioritise carrying support and organisation on two- to three-day trips.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its capacity is clearly stated as 40 litres, and it isn’t presented as a 100-litre model. That helps avoid unrealistic expectations about how much it can hold.

Main benefit and key features

40-litre capacity, an integrated aluminium frame, hip belt, ventilation panels and a stated weight of approximately 1.06 kg.

Suitable for: Specific uses and frequent users
vidaXL Military-Style Backpack XXL 100 L Black for intensive outdoor use

vidaXL Military-Style Backpack XXL 100 L Black

Why it suits this type of user: The layout works well for scouting, hunting, military-style activities and other pursuits where you need to carry lots of separate pieces of kit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The backpack combines a spacious main compartment with a front pocket, mesh pocket, two side pockets and two pockets in the lid. This means smaller accessories don’t all have to go in the main compartment.

Main benefit and key features

Several buckles, a drawcord fastening, five zipped pockets and a stated weight of 1.25 kg.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about 100-litre hiking backpacks

Is a 100-litre hiking backpack suitable for every walk?

No. A 100-litre backpack is usually far bigger than you need for day walks. This capacity is better suited to multi-day camping trips, winter kit, group equipment or travel when you’re carrying a lot of luggage. If you travel light, a smaller hiking backpack may be more practical.

How can I keep a large backpack dry in British rain?

Choose a model made from water-repellent material, but use a rain cover in prolonged rain. It’s also a good idea to keep your sleeping bag, clothing and electronics in separate waterproof bags. This helps protect the contents if water gets in through seams, zips or openings.

How long does a durable backpack last?

Its lifespan depends on how heavily it’s loaded, the terrain, moisture, maintenance and how the zips and buckles are used. Avoid overloading it, clean off mud and sand after use, and let the bag dry completely before storing it. Check the seams, straps and fastenings regularly, especially if you use the backpack frequently.