A complete guide to functional backpacks: 10 options – for hiking, fishing and sports

Sportmaster PRO expert

“Choosing a backpack is not as simple a task as it may seem at first glance. You need to consider many nuances: from the purpose for which it is purchased, to the volume and number of things that you will carry in it. How to find something that will suit you on all counts?”.

How to choose a backpack: 3 important parameters

First of all, we pay attention to the practical side of the issue. Many in the selection is based solely on appearance: color, logos, brand. This may be relevant if you buy a backpack for the city. Here we are talking more about an accessory, not a functional thing.

Such a backpack can be chosen by color, style, etc. Here it will be important that there is a compartment for a laptop (if it is always with you). Perhaps for you it will be crucial to have some special compartments and pockets. Of course, these are also functional moments, but when it comes to a backpack for camping, traveling, hunting or fishing, they come to the forefront. Here style is not important. Tourist models should be approached solely from the position of functionality. And first of all, it will depend on the volume of the backpack. How to navigate here? Let’s go through it one by one.

1. volume

• Volume from 5 to 15 liters. This variant of the backpack is perfect for cyclists, triathletes and those who need light weight. These are the cases when you don’t need to carry a lot of things. For example, for walking around the city.
• Volume from 15 to 35 liters. These backpacks are more universal. They can well be recommended for trips to gyms or for hiking. They can also be used on a daily basis in the city. These are the cases when, in addition to a wallet and documents, you need to carry a laptop or a bottle of water.
• Volume from 35 to 75 liters. Here we are already talking about a considerable volume. In such a backpack you can put additional clothes and equipment. It is designed for tourism and hiking. It is also an ideal option for those who plan to go hunting or fishing.

For those who need a good compact backpack for every day, can also fit models sling. Here we get a small volume (from two liters) and the presence of only one strap.

Slings are used mainly for carrying small things. The maximum that can be placed in such a backpack – a bottle of water. The obvious plus of this style in the lightness and ease of carrying. The downside is uneven load distribution. Even a liter bottle of water will only put pressure on one shoulder, which in the long run can lead to muscle pain.

2. Material

If we are talking about a functional backpack, then, unlike urban, manufacturers use only two main materials: nylon and polyester. The first is lighter, the second is heavier, but has greater durability.

Of the “exotic” varieties can be distinguished patented fabric CORDURA – this is one of the variants of weaving nylon with a special thread structure and a water-repellent layer. It is supposed to be impervious to water. This is a material that was originally developed for military needs, so it is characterized by special wear resistance. Of course, the cost of such a backpack will be more expensive than other options.

In general, wearability is affected not only by the material itself, from which the fabric is made, but also by the method of weaving. One of the most common is ripstop, when thick and thin threads alternate, thus creating a framework that increases the ability of the fabric to resist tearing.

If we talk about moisture resistance, it is not the material that comes to the fore, but the use of water-repellent impregnations or other technologies that can protect the fabric from liquids. And yet in 90% of cases, moisture protection is at a low or medium level. The fact is that backpacks are designed to use a waterproof cover, or cape. It’s called a rinkcover. It allows you to cover both the backpack itself and things attached to the outside.

3. ergonomics

This item is especially important for multi-liter hiking options. For a backpack with a volume of more than 40 liters, it is strategically important to have the option to adjust the backrest and straps in height. Thanks to this, the hiker will be able to position it correctly along the spine.

When carrying a lot of weight, a waist or hip belt plays an important role. How does it help? Its task is to relieve the shoulders and redirect part of the load to the belt. Sometimes also on the hips, if you have the appropriate straps.

Finally, functional backpacks often have a special ergonomic backrest. It is usually made of foam, mesh, EVA-panels or polyester. Lightweight walking backpacks have either a solid back, or – with inserts made of foam, covered with mesh fabric. If the backpack is designed for tourism, hiking and/or outdoor activities, it will be multi-piece, with support elements, more elastic straps and thick hip belt.

To realize that the backpack fits well, you need to load it with 5 to 25 kg of weight. Depending on the purpose, adjust the backrest so that the waist belt lies on the hips and most of the weight is transferred there. Next, tighten the shoulder straps so that the backpack rests firmly against your back. After that, try to walk with it for at least 15 minutes.

All people have different physiological features, back shape and level of body fitness, so it’s crucial to try out the accessory on yourself. Even if you plan to order online, try to come to a sporting goods store and try it on beforehand.

Do not spare yourself the time. First of all, it is about your health, among other things. Secondly, a functional backpack is a thing that is purchased for a long time. It is also worth considering that it is usually not cheap. Your attentiveness and willingness to explore several options will pay off.

How to choose a backpack for traveling?

For travel, a backpack with a volume of 25-35 liters is suitable. This is enough to carry the main things. At the same time, the main feature of such a backpack should be the number of pockets. The more they are, the easier it will be to unpack all the important things to quickly find them if necessary.

Often there are models with a separate carabiner for keys, a built-in organizer, a compartment for powerbank and outputs for wires and so on. Today in the lines of many manufacturers there are special models designed specifically for traveling. In some of them, the number of pockets and compartments is counted in dozens. A special plus will be such an option as a hidden pocket for documents.

Belt strap in such backpacks is not necessary, but comfortable thick straps that evenly press on the shoulders, and anatomical backrest will definitely not be superfluous. Feel sorry for your back.

Which travel backpack to consider?

• TheAtomic Travel Pack is an extremely practical backpack for long-distance trips and travel, as well as for everyday use if you spend a lot of time on your feet during the day. This model is characterized by reinforced materials, a molded ergonomic backrest, a secret pocket for documents, a shoe cover and a very high quality fabric that is resistant to dirt.

• TheNorthland urban backpack is made of CORDURA fabric, which is resistant to mechanical impact, so it holds its shape well and has water-repellent properties, and additional protection from water ingress is provided by rubberized zippers. In addition to the anatomical backrest, the back of the backpack has a special strap for attaching it to the handle of a suitcase.

How to choose a backpack for hiking (tourist)?

To begin with, it is worth determining what volume is needed. If you are going to go on a weekend hike (without an overnight stay), then it will be enough variant up to 30 liters. There you will be able to put all the necessary food, water, first aid kit and other things.

If we are talking about a camping trip with an overnight stay in a tent (up to 2-3 days), it is worth looking at backpacks up to 50 liters. It is desirable to have straps for foam and sleeping bag on the outside. Finally, if we are talking about multi-day trekking, the volume of the backpack can reach 130 liters.

After choosing the size of the most correct decision will be to study the model “live”, try it on. It is also worth paying attention to the equipment, the presence of replaceable fittings and rynkavera. If the latter is not available, it is desirable to buy separately. The size of the cape should be equal to or slightly larger than the backpack.

What backpack hiking backpack to consider?

• TheNorthland Blaze 20 is a lightweight backpack for weekend hikes. Thanks to its smart volume distribution, it will fit everything you need for short trips into the woods or mountains. The fabric of the backpack is treated with water-repellent coating and the seams are additionally reinforced with silicone. The back and straps are made of EVA foam, which provides effective air exchange.
• Tatonka Yukon 60+10 is a trekking backpack from one of the most famous manufacturers of outdoor products. It uses several types of reinforced materials: ripstop weave fabric and CORDURA fabric, so the backpack is resistant to damage and the bottom is resistant to moisture. The V2 suspension system distributes the weight evenly and does not overload the back.

Which backpack to choose for fishing?

Fishermen probably have the most small items that need to be transported: hooks, tacks, lures, etc. For convenient and quick handling of all this equipment, manufacturers make special models with built-in hard cases and a large number of pockets.

Often in fishing stores you can find a chair-backpack, which has enough strength to withstand the weight of a person. Externally, it looks more like a tall toolbox. Backpack in it give out only the straps. This is a convenient and functional thing.

Good fishing models are sewn from both nylon and CORDURA fabric. Since fishing is associated with contact with water, it is desirable that the backpack was treated with a special impregnation or made with waterproof materials. For example, had a rubberized bottom.

It is important to pay attention to the quality of locks and fittings. They should work without effort and jams.

What backpack for fishing to consider?

• Tatonka PETRI CHAIR is a fishing chair backpack that combines a spacious main compartment and a lot of additional pockets, while being a comfortable folding chair. The volume of 25 liters is enough to take with you all the necessary gear, and fasteners on the outside will help to place large-sized equipment.
• Aquatic P-86 – backpack with a volume of 86 liters is made of water-repellent nylon and has several hard cases for easy access to gear at any time.

What backpack to choose for hunting?

Hunting backpacks have a lot of similarities with tourist backpacks. But still, there is a certain specificity here. An important parameter is the color. It is important for the hunter to be inconspicuous, so more suitable products with monochrome or camouflage print of neutral natural shades: khaki or gray.

Materials are also important. They should not only be very strong. It is important that nothing cracked and did not creak. Otherwise, you can scare away the prey.

MOLLE system for securing additional carabiners and equipment will also come in handy. Just like a hiking backpack, it is important to choose a backpack for hunting in a loaded form to have an idea of how the straps and hip belt will feel. The volume of hunting backpacks usually does not exceed 60 liters.

Which hunting backpack to consider?

• Alloy RM3 Olive. The back of the backpack thanks to its multi-layer structure provides excellent ventilation and has a high rigidity. The backpack is fully covered with MOLLE system straps, which allows you to fix additional equipment. The model is made in a neutral color, which is perfect for the forest.
• Remington Large Hunting. The backpack is made of polyester, which is not afraid of moisture. The volume of the model is only 45 liters, which makes it both roomy and compact. The coloring is ideal for hunting in the period from late fall to early spring.

How to choose the right backpack for sports?

Backpacks for going to the gym should hold the set of things you need for your workout: a towel, clothes and shoes. It is also good if there are internal protection from moisture and an external pocket for a flask or shaker.

It is best to choose models made of thin synthetic fabric with perforated inserts. This way the backpack and its contents will dry faster. Useful will be models with compartments and pockets that will allow you to separately place a wet towel or swimming suit.

As for the volume, a model from 10 to 20 liters will be enough. Of course, if we are not talking about sports that require large equipment or gear. It is worth paying attention to lightweight models with anatomical straps.

What backpack for sports to consider?

• Kelme – the volume of the model is 35 liters, which allows you to place a tracksuit and all the additional accessories inside. For this purpose, there is a special ventilated pocket for shoes inside. The backpack provides good air exchange and will be comfortable even in warm weather.
• Under Armour Hustle 4.0 – the backpack provides a high level of moisture resistance and is equipped with a durable abrasion-resistant bottom. The 26-liter capacity is enough to hold a full set of clothes, and there are two additional water bottle pockets on the sides.