The Different Types of Trekking Backpacks

The types, kinds, styles and features of backpacks are literally uncountable. You can find almost any kind of pack for any type of use. Many companies have developed and introduced distinct features in packs, making them an excellent choice for specific routes or activities. The wider the choice of packs to select from, the more important it becomes to choose the perfect type for yourself. Listed below are some of the common types of trekking backpack that allow new and first time trekkers to choose, the one that fits their idea of trekking adventure.

Hip/Waist/ Lumbar/Fanny Packs

These types of packs are the simplest version designed for very simple small day trips. The volume of these packs allow up to 10 liters, and even though these does not exactly lie under the category of backpacks, still novice trekkers who like to start from very small trek trips can benefit from these. These packs are worn round the waist with a pouch in the front and a small pack tied at the base of the spine. These packs are also sometimes referred to as ultralight backpack, owing to the zero weight effect they produce on the body.

Some newer versions of this type also come with shoulder yokes to offer better stability and carrying of maximum load. However in cases when your waist pack starts to sag, this means you should move on to the next type of trekking backpacks.

Day Trek Packs

These types of packs offer a volume up to 15 to 35 liters, depending on the chosen size. As the name itself suggest, day packs are intended towards a day’s trek trip. Small sized day trek packs come with shoulder straps only, while bigger sized are often found with shoulder chest straps to avoid shoulders being pulled by the weight. Large sized day trek backpack carries a hip belt too in order to maintain the weight of the pack.

Mid size Trek Packs

This term is given to packs that can carry a volume of 35 to 70 liters, and are ideal for multi day treks provided a small gear inventory is needed. Owing to enhanced technology, trekking equipments are also getting more sophisticated and have reduced in both size and weight. Such kind of gear allow the use of a mid size pack where people can carry additional items such as books and camera, along with their minimal trekking gear.

Expedition Trek Pack

Evident by the name, this is by far the largest types of trekking backpack available that allows heavy and abundant trekking gears to be carried along. These packs allow more than 60 liters of volume to be carried along depending on the size of the pack. These packs come with padded shoulder straps and padded hip belts to support the weight of the pack evenly on the shoulder and the back. Checking snug fit features in this kind is essential.

Water Proof Trek Pack

Besides the volume and features of trekking backpack, another differentiation of packs is based on some special purpose the packs may serve. One example of this type is the waterproof backpack. This type of pack is offered in different sizes and types and is ideal to be chosen for treks that will include going through wet areas or on treks where heavy rain is expected.

It would be irrelevant to mention the benefits this type will offer, as the name speaks for itself, however this type is chosen mostly by experienced trekkers, as trekking in wet or rainy terrain is not advised otherwise.

Besides deciding upon the type of trekking backpack you will be using on your trek trip, the proper way to load the pack is equally important. Choosing the proper type of pack and loading it properly allows the person to distribute the weight evenly, imparting an ultralight backpack feel and comfort.