Hiking Backpacks / Rucksacks

Whether you're heading out for a day hike, embarking on a multi-day trekking adventure, camping overnight at the summit after a challenging alpine ascent, or simply enjoying an evening bivouac, a hiking backpack is an essential piece of kit. With no room for compromise when choosing your pack, we offer a wide selection of models with various features and accessories to suit every need. Capacity, weight, volume, colour-you'll be spoilt for choice in our extensive range: take your time to browse and find the hiking backpack of your dreams! From hiking and trekking backpacks for day trips to models designed for mountaineering, our experts have selected a complete range for all your mountain adventures.

Hiking backpacks: your best ally for every adventure

Before you set off on the trails, make sure to protect your back by choosing a hiking backpack suited to your activity. Your pack should always offer enough volume and storage options, optimal carrying comfort, and be as lightweight as possible. Whether you're carrying 10, 20, or 30 kg of gear, a poorly adjusted backpack or uneven weight distribution can quickly lead to back pain for the duration of your trek-this is just as true when carrying a child. Choosing a quality hiking backpack tailored to your needs is crucial. For more advice, check out our tutorial on how to properly adjust your hiking backpack and our selection of the best hiking backpacks. Don't forget the rest of your hiking gear: walking boots, tents, trekking poles, technical clothing... And if you're a fan of the American brand, take a look at our range of The North Face hiking backpacks.

A wide range of hiking backpacks for your mountain outings

Backpacks for men, women, and children

As mentioned above, a poorly adjusted backpack or uneven load can cause discomfort and back pain during your outdoor adventures, but a pack not designed for your body shape can also lead to discomfort and long-term pain. That's why a hiking backpack should fit your anatomy perfectly, whether you're a man, woman, or child (though some unisex models are cleverly designed to suit everyone). Women's packs typically feature a shorter back length, narrower and contoured shoulder straps to fit the chest, and a hip belt shaped for female hips. Men's packs offer longer back lengths and a less pronounced hip belt. Children's models are deliberately more compact in both height and width, so they don't hinder growth and remain easy to handle for young hikers-see our selection of kids' backpacks designed for young adventurers. To help you find the right pack, use our "Gender" filter to sort between men's, women's, and kids' models.

How to choose the right backpack volume

Several litres of water? Check! Sleeping bag for the night? Sorted! Waterproof jacket? Ready! The list can be long when checking your hiking backpack contents. Since mountain adventures require planning for every eventuality, your backpack must hold all the essentials without compromising comfort. Capacity is the most important factor when buying. Start with the key question: what will you carry, and for how long? For guidance, see our guide on choosing a hiking backpack suited to your needs. Our extensive selection, curated by hiking experts, is sure to meet your expectations! Plus, almost every model comes in a range of colours: black, red, blue, green... the choice is yours!

Your chosen capacity will depend entirely on how you plan to use your mountain backpack: whether for day hikes, overnight bivouacs, multi-day treks, or tackling long-distance routes, your needs will differ. To help you decide, here are our recommendations for the ideal capacity in detail:

20L to 30L backpacks for day hikes

For short outings, lightness and minimalist carrying are key. A volume between 20 and 30 litres is more than enough for the essentials: hydration bladder, snacks, windbreaker, head torch, first aid kit, and a few small accessories. See our day hiking backpacks for more details.

• The 20L backpack: Lightweight and compact, the 20-litre pack is ideal for day hikes, carrying your water, head torch, windbreaker, and small accessories in handy pockets-everything you need for short hikes or even trail running!
• The 30L backpack: With a bit more space and weight, this is perfect for day hikes lasting 6 to 7 hours, where you may need to stop for meals along the way.

40L to 50L backpacks for multi-day hikes

For trips lasting one to three nights, you'll need a medium-capacity pack, between 40 and 50 litres. This is the most versatile range: enough space for a tent, sleeping bag, mat, cooking gear, stove, and food, without making the load too heavy. See our dedicated range of 40L backpacks for multi-day hikes.

• The 40L backpack: With 40 litres, this is a medium-capacity pack, ideal for 1-2 day hikes or short trips with an overnight bivouac-perfect for a night under the stars.
• The 50L backpack: At the upper end of medium capacity, this pack lets you carry all the gear needed for 1-3 day hikes: bivouac kit (tent, mat, cooking gear, stove), food, hydration bladder, and any other essentials.

60L and above for long-distance treks

Above 60 litres, these packs are for experienced hikers heading out for several days or weeks, often in remote areas with no shelters to lighten the load. For winter conditions or family expeditions, allow an extra ten litres for additional layers.

• The 60L backpack: This is a large-capacity pack, ideal for backpackers on long-distance treks, especially in self-sufficient conditions where there are no refuges.
• The 70L backpack: Slightly larger than the previous model, this offers 10 extra litres and is heavier. We recommend this size for experienced users who know exactly what they need.
• The 80L backpack: At 80 litres and above, these are very large-capacity packs, often used by serious adventurers looking for a versatile bag that can double as a travel and hiking backpack, without having to carry a suitcase throughout the trip.

The best hiking backpacks from top brands

With leading brands constantly innovating to create the lightest, most comfortable, and most enjoyable products, you're sure to find a model with impeccable design! With brands like Osprey, Deuter, Millet, and Gregory, all experts in hiking and trekking backpacks, each stands out with iconic models and countless advantages. Osprey is renowned for its AntiGravity back systems and pre-shaped hip belts, especially appreciated on long distances. Deuter focuses on its Aircomfort mesh back system, a reference for hot weather hiking. Gregory is known for its precise adjustment systems and the iconic Baltoro, while Millet, a historic French brand, maintains a strong mountaineering and technical mountain focus. Highly functional, these products are packed with features to make your life easier: pockets, integrated rain covers, hydration bladder sleeves, and plenty of details that make all the difference! Say goodbye to back pain from poorly designed packs-enjoy your journey to the summit and relax after a rewarding day on the trails.

When it comes to features, the most advanced models include a range of details that make a real difference on the trail:

• ventilated mesh back panels to reduce sweating on long climbs;
• an integrated, waterproof rain cover to save the day when the weather turns;
• side compression straps to stabilise lighter loads;
• a dedicated hydration bladder sleeve, essential for longer efforts;
• hip belt pockets easily accessible on the move, so you can grab snacks or your phone without stopping.

Family hike? Choose a hiking baby carrier

If you want to hike as a family and let your little one enjoy the scenery, a hiking baby carrier is a must. Designed for both parent and child comfort, our products offer support and ease of use. Padded back, cushioned headrest, hip belt, sun canopy-the hiking baby carrier makes you feel light as a feather, without disturbing your child's nap. Discover our full range on the hiking baby carrier backpacks page.

FAQ: How to choose your hiking backpack

How do you choose a hiking backpack based on trip length and difficulty?

Trip duration is the main factor for choosing the right capacity, but terrain difficulty and season are just as important. Here are the main guidelines we use in-store:

• day hikes: 20 to 30 litres, enough for water, snacks, windbreaker, and first aid kit;
• one to three nights in summer bivouac: 40 to 50 litres, to add tent, sleeping bag, and cooking gear;
• challenging treks or full autonomy: 60 to 80 litres, essential for carrying food and safety equipment;
• winter conditions or technical terrain: allow an extra 10 litres for additional layers.

What features should you look for in a comfortable hiking backpack?

Beyond capacity and fit, a few details make a backpack a true long-distance companion:

• a well-padded, properly sized hip belt that transfers most of the weight to your hips rather than your shoulders;
• a ventilated or mesh back panel, essential for reducing sweat on long climbs;
• adjustable shoulder straps with load lifters to keep the pack close to your back;
• easy access points (front opening, hydration sleeve, hip belt pockets) so you can grab items without stopping;
• an integrated waterproof rain cover, a lifesaver when the weather changes.

How do you care for and clean a hiking backpack to ensure its longevity?

A well-maintained backpack can last for a decade or more. After each trip, empty it completely and shake it upside down to remove dust and crumbs that collect in the seams. For a deeper clean, always hand wash: use lukewarm water, mild soap like Marseille soap, and a soft brush on high-wear areas (straps, hip belt, base), then air dry inside out, away from direct sunlight, which can damage technical fabrics. Avoid washing machines, tumble dryers, and harsh detergents-they damage seams and destroy the original water repellency. Remember to reproof the rain cover periodically with a suitable spray, and lubricate zips after trips in salty or dusty environments.

What accessories and options can improve your hiking backpack experience?

A few well-chosen accessories can transform your carrying experience. A 2-3 litre hydration bladder lets you drink on the go via a shoulder tube-a comfort you won't want to give up. Trekking poles attach to side gear loops to free your hands on steep climbs. An internal dry bag protects your sleeping bag and electronics from unexpected rain, while extra compression straps help stabilise lighter loads. On the most advanced trekking models, a U-shaped opening gives easy access to the bottom of the pack without unpacking everything, and the removable lid doubles as a summit pouch or for use at the refuge.

For added convenience, our hiking backpack range comes with free delivery from £199, free returns within 60 days, and a free gift with orders over £299-just a few extras to make your adventure even easier.