Joybuy Insights

How to choose an outdoor backpack: find a practical model for hiking, travel and everyday use

An outdoor backpack needs to do more than just look spacious in a product photo. When you're out walking in the Lake District, cycling through the countryside or catching a train, you'll quickly notice whether the fit, organisation and rain protection really suit your needs.

Many shoppers run into the same issues:

  • The stated capacity doesn't match the usable space. A 30-litre backpack can hold less than expected because of thick padding or a lack of practical pockets.
  • "Waterproof" is interpreted too loosely. A water-repellent backpack often protects against splashes and a light shower, but isn't automatically suitable for prolonged rain.
  • Lightweight is confused with comfortable. A low weight is nice, but without a good back panel, adjustable shoulder straps or hip and chest straps, a full backpack can still be uncomfortable to carry.
  • Too many pockets don't always make packing easier. Check whether the pockets are suitable for your items, such as a water bottle, laptop, rain jacket or sleeping bag.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Capacity and dimensions

Choose the capacity based on the activity:

  • 10 to 15 litres: commuting, trail running, short walks and daily errands.
  • 20 to 30 litres: day trips, urban adventures and walks where you take extra clothing or food.
  • 40 to 50 litres: multi-day trekking, backpacking and travel with camping gear.

A 30-litre backpack usually offers a practical middle ground for day trips. For two to three days of lightweight backpacking, a 45-litre backpack could be suitable, depending on your sleeping bag, clothing and cooking equipment. A 50-litre backpack gives extra packing space, but also becomes heavier more quickly. So check not only the capacity, but also the dimensions, the empty weight and the carrying system.

An expandable backpack is handy when your contents vary from day to day. Make sure the extra space is actually accessible and that the bag remains stable when compressed. With a foldable backpack, it's important to check how small it folds and whether the shoulder straps offer enough support.

2. Carrying comfort and stability

For longer walks, adjustable shoulder straps, a chest strap and, on larger models, a hip belt are important things to check. A ventilated back panel can improve the feel of the carry, but won't completely stop your back from getting warm.

Also look at how the weight is distributed:

  1. Place heavy items close to the back panel.
  2. Put light clothing and a rain jacket at the top or in a quick-access pocket.
  3. Use side pockets for water bottles, but make sure the bag stays reasonably balanced on both sides.
  4. Tighten the shoulder straps after fastening the hip belt, if the model has one.

For a hiking backpack or trekking backpack, attachment points for walking poles, a sleeping mat or extra clothing are practical. With a trail running backpack, a compact shape, quick access and a stable fit matter more than maximum capacity.

3. Material and moisture protection

Nylon, polyester, polyamide and Oxford weave are common in outdoor backpacks. The properties vary from product to product. A coating can help protect the material against splashes and wear, while a separate waterproof cover or lining may be needed for prolonged rain.

According to the product description, the Beneunder LC183 is made from high-quality nylon with a fabric that resists wind, rain and stains. That doesn't automatically mean the entire backpack can be submerged. The Mobi Garden Phantom Pro, according to the product specifications, has a separate waterproof compartment for a hydration system; the manufacturer also states that you should not submerge the bag.

So always check:

  • whether only the fabric, zips or a specific pocket are water-repellent;
  • whether a rain cover is included;
  • what the care instructions are;
  • whether the material is resistant to abrasion and sharp objects.

Recommended outdoor backpacks by use profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Beneunder LC183 expandable outdoor backpack 10 litres

Beneunder LC183, Expandable Backpack 10L

Why it fits this profile: The 10-litre capacity can be expanded to 13 litres according to the product specifications. This makes it suitable for commuting, short walks and travel with varying luggage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The capacity is clearly stated in both normal and expanded mode. According to the product description, the bag is also designed to resist surface moisture and stains; check for additional protection in heavy rain.

Key benefit & highlights

8.3 oz stated weight, expandable capacity from 10 to 13 litres and adjustable shoulder straps.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Mobi Garden Phantom Pro Dyneema backpack 45 litres

Mobi Garden Phantom Pro 3D Dyneema 45L Backpack

Why it fits this profile: This model is aimed at backpackers and trekkers who are out for several days and value a structured carrying system.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions a 3D ventilated back panel, hip belt, chest strap and separate compartments. So the bag wasn't chosen on material weight alone. Dyneema is still sensitive to cutting or sharp loads.

Key benefit & highlights

45-litre capacity, approximately 1.35 kg, external attachment points and a separate waterproof hydration compartment according to the product details.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Salomon Cross 12 outdoor backpack 12 litres

Salomon Cross 12 Tahitian Tide/Black C21858

Why it fits this profile: The compact 12-litre layout suits trail running, fast day trips and walks where you only take water, a jacket and small essentials.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The backpack has a panelled back system, double chest straps and pockets on the shoulder straps. The product description mentions compatibility with a 1.5-litre hydration system; drink bottles are not included.

Key benefit & highlights

12-litre capacity, polyamide outer material, reflective buckle and shoulder strap pockets for quick access.

Suitable for: Day hikers and commuters
Salomon Trailblazer 30 outdoor backpack

Salomon Trailblazer 30 Backpack C21833

Why it fits this profile: The 30-litre capacity offers room for clothing, lunch, documents and accessories during a day trip or daily city use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The bag uses multiple compartments and an improved shoulder strap and back panel design according to the product description. This means you don't have to stack everything in one large compartment.

Key benefit & highlights

30-litre capacity, nylon and polyester, multiple storage compartments and an ergonomic design according to the product specifications.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about outdoor backpacks

How big should an outdoor backpack be for a day trip?

For most day trips, 20 to 30 litres is sufficient. Choose 10 to 15 litres if you're travelling light and only taking drinks, a jacket and small items. A 30-litre backpack gives more room for extra clothing, food or equipment.

Is a water-repellent backpack completely waterproof?

No, not automatically. "Water-repellent" usually means that light rain or splashes are temporarily held off. Check whether the backpack has sealed seams, waterproof zips or a waterproof lining. In prolonged rain, a rain cover is advisable, unless the manufacturer explicitly states a waterproof design.

How can I keep my hiking backpack usable for longer?

Don't overload the bag, distribute heavy items close to the back panel and follow the manufacturer's care instructions. Many models can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Avoid the washing machine when it's not recommended, and store the backpack dry and out of direct sunlight. This will help limit wear to the fabric, coating, zips and buckles.