How To Choose a Backpack by Activity
🧭 How to Choose the Right Backpack for Every Adventure
A backpack is one of the most versatile ways to store and carry your gear — no matter the activity. From commuting and traveling to camping or surfing, there’s a pack designed just for your needs.
The first step in choosing the right backpack? Understanding how you’ll use it.
🎒 Backpack Capacity: What Size Do You Need?
Backpack size matters. Consider:
- The length of your trip
- The activities you’ll be doing
- Your preferred features and comfort level
Here’s a quick backpack capacity guide based on typical uses:
| Type of Backpack | Capacity | Activities | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everyday/Commuter | 15–35 L | Work, commuting, around-town errands | Durable, comfortable, organized |
| Surf | 30–50 L | Surf trips, beach days, tropical adventures | Wet/dry storage, water resistance, fin & wax pockets |
| Travel | 25–45 L | Carry-on, overnighters, backpacking Europe | Spacious, flexible layout, durable |
| Hiking | 10–35 L | Hiking, climbing, canyoneering | Ergonomic fit, sternum strap, gear loops |
| Camping | 35–70 L | Multi-day hikes, backpacking, wilderness trips | Padded straps, durable build, large compartments |
| Laptop/School | 10–30 L | School, daily commute, meetings | Slim profile, padded laptop sleeve, cable pockets |
💼 Everyday or Commuter Backpacks
Looking for a reliable day-to-day pack? Commuter backpacks are designed to be simple, versatile, and built for routine use.
🟢 Best size: 15–35 liters
Features to Look For:
- Padded shoulder straps for comfort during daily wear
- Multiple storage pockets for books, tech, and small items
- Durable, eco-conscious fabric for long-term use
🌊 Surf Backpacks
Surf backpacks are specially designed to handle wet gear, beach environments, and all the little things surfers carry.
🟢 Best size: 30–50 liters
Key Features:
- Waterproof material for ocean, rain, or wet wetsuits
- Mesh pockets for snacks, beanies, or water bottles
- Wet/dry compartments to keep your soaked items separate
- Dedicated fin and wax pockets
- Internal key fob to keep valuables safe
✈️ Travel Backpacks
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a 3-month adventure, your travel backpack needs to meet both your packing needs and airline restrictions.
🟢 Best size: 25–45 liters (for carry-on convenience)
✈️ Most airlines allow bags up to 22″ x 14″ x 9″ = approx. 45L.
Features to Look For:
- Multiple compartments for clothes, toiletries, and gadgets
- Rust-resistant zippers and access options (top/front/side)
- Ergonomic straps for support on long travel days
How to Pack a Travel Backpack:
- Roll clothes instead of folding to save space
- Keep toiletries in side pockets for quick access
- Store heavy items close to your back for better balance
🔍 Planning a 3-month trip?
Consider a larger rucksack-style hiking pack (50–70L) with padded hip and chest straps for long-term comfort and extra storage.
🥾 Hiking Backpacks
For hiking, climbing, or trekking, you need a backpack designed for mobility, comfort, and gear organization.
🟢 Best size: 10–35 liters for day hikes
Features to Look For:
- Dedicated water bottle holders
- Sternum strap for better weight distribution
- Reflective details for visibility in low light
- Loops and clips for trekking poles or accessories
🏕️ Camping Backpacks
Camping backpacks are made to carry everything you need to survive and thrive outdoors — from tents and sleeping bags to cookware.
🟢 Best size:
- 35–50L for overnight or minimalist trips
- 60–70L+ for multi-day or luxury-style campouts
Must-Have Features:
- Moulded shoulder straps for comfort on long treks
- Plenty of internal space for bulkier items
- Insulated compartments for food and drinks
- Hip belts to shift weight off your shoulders
How to Pack:
- Heavy gear near your back
- Sleeping bag at the bottom
- Essentials like snacks, rain gear, or maps in easy-access pockets
- Use waterproof bags to protect clothes and electronics
💻 Laptop & School Backpacks
Designed for daily tech carry and student life, these backpacks are slim but protective.
🟢 Best size: 10–30 liters
Features to Look For:
- Padded laptop sleeve for shock absorption
- Front pocket for cords and cables
- Hidden pockets or anti-theft zippers for safety
🛍 Final Tips
No matter your lifestyle or adventure goals, there’s a perfect backpack for you. The key is to:
- Choose the right size
- Match features to your activity
- Test for comfort before you commit
💡 Pro Tip: Try loading your backpack and walking up/down stairs or taking a short walk to test fit and comfort.
Want help choosing a specific model? Or need packing tips for a long trip? Let me know — I’m happy to help you gear up.
If you found this guide useful, consider sharing it with your travel crew! 🌍✨