A few months back, I joined a group of friends for my first multi-day trek in Himachal Pradesh. While the views were breathtaking, my poorly chosen backpack turned the adventure into a literal pain in the back. It wasn’t big enough to fit all my essentials, the straps weren’t padded, and it lacked compartments to organize my gear. That experience taught me the importance of investing in a high-quality hiking backpack. So, for my next trip, I decided to do thorough research to find a backpack that ticks all the right boxes.
What to Look for in a Hiking Backpack
Capacity: The size of the backpack depends on the length of your trek.
- Day Hikes: 20–30 liters
- Weekend Treks: 30–50 liters
- Multi-Day Treks: 50–70+ liters
Fit and Comfort: Ensure the shoulder, chest, and hip straps can be adjusted for a snug fit. Also, look for thick padding to distribute weight evenly. A breathable mesh is also a must for the back panel as it prevents sweat buildup.
Compartments and Organization: You would need multiple compartments that make organizing your gear easier. Side pockets are great for water bottles or snacks. A separate compartment for a hydration bladder is a big plus.
Weight: Lightweight backpacks reduce fatigue during long treks.
Durability and Waterproofing: Durable materials like nylon or polyester last longer. A rain cover or water-resistant coating is essential for Indian trekking conditions.
Here’s my list for best backpacks that you can buy for trekking:
Wildcraft 45L Trekking Rucksack
This backpack feels like a dependable companion for weekend treks. The 45-liter capacity strikes a great balance—it’s neither too bulky nor too small. The padded straps are a lifesaver during long hikes, and the ergonomic design ensures even weight distribution. I especially loved the built-in rain cover, which came in handy during an unexpected drizzle on my trek to Triund. The material is durable and held up well despite being tossed around. For ₹3,000, it delivers a solid combination of affordability and functionality. However, I did feel the side pockets were a bit tight for larger bottles.
Quechua Forclaz 60L Backpack
This was my pick for a multi-day trek, and it exceeded expectations. Designed by Decathlon, it boasts a thoughtful design with ample compartments for organizing gear. The ventilated back panel was a game changer, keeping me sweat-free even during steep climbs. At 60 liters, it provides enough room for bulky items like sleeping bags. The durability of the material and zippers reassures you that it can handle rough handling. Priced at around ₹6,000, it’s a bit of an investment but worth every penny for those serious about trekking. My only gripe? It’s not the lightest backpack out there, but the comfort and utility make up for it.
Trawoc 50L Hiking Backpack
This is a budget-friendly gem that doesn’t skimp on features. For around ₹2,000, you get a rain cover, spacious compartments, and decent padding on the straps. While it may not match premium brands in durability, it holds up well for beginner-level treks. I used this on a weekend trip to Rajmachi, and it comfortably carried my essentials. The material is water-resistant but not entirely waterproof, so a downpour might be a challenge. The biggest surprise? It’s incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for those who want to keep things simple and cost-effective.
Deuter Futura Vario 50+10
Deuter is a brand that commands respect in the hiking community, and this model justifies the hype. The 50+10 design offers expandable capacity, giving you flexibility for longer treks. The load distribution system is unparalleled, thanks to its ergonomic hip and shoulder straps. I was impressed by the build quality—it feels like a bag that could last for years. The ventilated back panel is another highlight, ensuring comfort during hot weather. At ₹16,000, it’s definitely a premium option, but it’s perfect for trekkers who prioritize quality and comfort.
Mount Track 65L Rucksack
For long expeditions, this backpack is a beast. With a 65-liter capacity, it swallows up your gear effortlessly. The material is rugged and held its ground during a particularly challenging trek to Sandakphu. The inclusion of a rain cover is a thoughtful touch, and the multiple compartments make it easy to organize your belongings. Priced around ₹3,500, it offers excellent value for its size and features. However, due to its bulk, it might not be the best choice for smaller frames or short trips.
Tips for Picking the Right Hiking Backpack
Visit a store if possible to try on backpacks. Ensure it feels comfortable and doesn’t strain your shoulders or back. Choose a size that fits your essentials but isn’t overly large to avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
After much deliberation, I settled on the Quechua Forclaz 60L Backpack. It fit my needs perfectly for multi-day treks, and its durability justified the price. On my recent trek to the Kedarkantha summit, it held all my essentials, distributed the weight evenly, and kept me comfortable throughout the hike. If you’re planning a trekking adventure, a good backpack can make all the difference. What’s your go-to backpack for hiking? Let me know your favorites or any tips you’ve learned along the way!
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I’ve been using the Wildcraft 45L for my treks, and I completely agree with you it’s a great balance of size and comfort. The built-in rain cover has saved my gear multiple times! But I do feel the side pockets could have been a bit bigger. I’m planning a longer trek to Rupin Pass soon, and I’m wondering if I should upgrade to a 60L bag. Do you think the Quechua Forclaz 60L would be a noticeable improvement in terms of comfort and storage? Or should I stick with the Wildcraft and just pack smarter?
I completely get what you mean about the side pockets—fitting a larger bottle can be tricky. For a trek like Rupin Pass, I’d say upgrading to a 60L bag like the Quechua Forclaz could definitely help, especially if you’re carrying extra layers, sleeping gear, or food supplies. The added compartments and better weight distribution make a difference on longer treks. That said, if you prefer traveling light and can pack efficiently, you could still make the 45L work—it just depends on how much gear you need. If you do go for the 60L, I think you’ll appreciate the extra space and comfort for a trek of that scale!
I completely get where you’re coming from! I had a similar experience on my first trek underestimating how much a poorly chosen backpack can affect the entire journey. Your breakdown of these options is super helpful, and I’m now seriously considering the Deuter Futura Vario 50+10 for my next trek. I’ve heard great things about its load distribution system, but do you think the extra 10L expansion makes a big difference for multi-day treks, or is it more of a minor convenience? How does it compare in terms of weight to something like the Quechua Forclaz 60L? I usually prefer lighter packs but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, especially on steep ascents.
The extra 10L expansion on the Deuter Futura Vario definitely helps if you need flexibility—sometimes, having that extra space for food, layers, or gear can make a difference on longer treks. That said, it’s not a dealbreaker if you’re good at packing efficiently. In terms of weight, the Deuter is actually lighter than the Quechua Forclaz 60L, thanks to its high-end materials and ergonomic design. If you prioritize comfort and proper weight distribution, Deuter wins hands down. However, if you need sheer storage capacity and don’t mind a bit of extra weight, the Quechua is still an excellent value. For steep ascents, I’d say the Deuter’s ventilation and load management system make it a great investment.
I had my first trek to Nag Tibba last year and thought I could manage with a regular gym bag strapped on my shoulders… biggest mistake ever. No back support, zero load distribution, and I ended up with aching shoulders on day one. I’m planning another trek soon and thinking of getting something around 50L. Do you think it’s worth spending extra for features like ventilated back panels and hip belts? Or can I just get by with something simple as long as the straps are padded?
Man, I can imagine the pain of dragging a gym bag up a mountain that must have been rough! Trust me, investing in a proper hiking backpack will make a world of difference. Features like ventilated back panels and hip belts are not just marketing fluff, they really help on longer treks. The ventilated back panel keeps you cooler, and a good hip belt will take a huge chunk of the load off your shoulders, shifting it to your hips. If you are sticking to short one-day treks, a simple 40-50L with basic padding might work, but for multi-day treks, I highly recommend spending a bit extra for proper load management. It’s one of those purchases where you can immediately feel the difference on your first climb.
I’m still fairly new to trekking, and I’ve only done local one-day trails so far. I’ve been managing with a 20L decathlon daypack, but I’m planning a weekend trek in Uttarakhand and wondering if upgrading to something like the Trawoc 50L is overkill. Do you think jumping from 20L to 50L will feel too bulky for someone used to light daypacks? Or is it better to have extra space even if I do not end up using all of it?
Shifting from a 20L to a 50L might feel bulky at first, especially if you’re used to minimalist packing, but for a weekend trek in Uttarakhand, it is actually a smart upgrade. The extra space is not just about volume— it also gives you more flexibility with how you organize your gear. With a 50L, you won’t have to stuff everything in one compartment like you would with a smaller pack. Plus, when packed well, the weight distribution on a trekking backpack like the Trawoc is far better than a casual daypack. Just make sure you adjust the straps to get the right fit, and keep it lightly packed the first few times until you get used to it. Better to have a bit of unused room than end up struggling to jam in essentials.
I usually do short day hikes near Mumbai and have been using a small 20L daypack so far. But I am thinking of trying a weekend trek in the Western Ghats later this year. Jumping from a 20L to a 50L bag like the Trawoc seems like a big leap. Will the extra space just make me carry unnecessary weight, or is it worth it for organizing gear and essentials better? I do worry about the bulk since I am petite.
That’s the thingg when moving from light daypacks to larger trekking backpacks. The jump to a 50L can feel bulky at first, but it actually offers much better organization and comfort on longer treks. The key is how you pack and adjust the straps so the load is well-distributed and stable. With a larger bag, you avoid cramming everything into one compartment, which can cause discomfort and imbalance. For a weekend trek, having that extra room also means you can carry safety items, extra layers, and food without stress. Since you are petite, I recommend trying on backpacks in-store if possible, or starting with a lighter load and gradually adding gear as you get used to it. Over time, the comfort benefits definitely outweigh the initial bulkiness.
I am planning my first multi-day trek in Himachal this winter and was looking at the Deuter Futura Vario 50+10. I like the idea of expandable capacity, but I wonder if that extra 10L actually makes a big difference in practice. Winters are cold, does the ventilation system really help with sweat and comfort when wearing multiple layers? I prefer something lightweight but durable.
The 10L expansion on the Deuter Futura Vario is definitely more than just a minor convenience. It gives you flexibility to pack extra essentials or souvenirs you might pick up along the way, which is handy on multi-day treks where gear needs can vary. About ventilation, yes, the advanced back panel system is designed to improve airflow and reduce sweat buildup, even when you’re layering up in colder weather. It won’t eliminate all moisture, but it does make a noticeable difference, helping you stay drier and more comfortable during tough climbs. And despite its robust build, the Deuter is surprisingly lightweight for its category, so it strikes a great balance between durability and ease of carrying. For a first multi-day trek in chilly conditions, it’s a solid investment.