When hiking, you experience nature in all its glory and do something good for your body at the same time. But whether you are a passionate hiker or just discovering your love for hiking: a reliable hiking backpack is your most loyal companion on every trail. On outdoor trips, hiking backpacks are not only an important part of your equipment, but also a symbol of freedom and a spirit of discovery.
At Meister Messer's online shop, you can find high-quality hiking backpacks for men and women in various sizes and designs. We offer models suitable for day trips as well as multi-day trekking adventures. The following buying guide will help you find the hiking backpack that suits you best.
More than just storage space: The unique features of hiking backpacks
Hiking backpacks are specifically designed for the demands and adventures in the great outdoors, tailored to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. The following overview summarizes the special features that distinguish hiking backpacks:
- Durable materials: Unlike ordinary backpacks, hiking backpacks are typically made of particularly robust materials, which are often water-repellent or waterproof to protect your equipment from weather influences.
- Comfortable Carrying System: Hiking backpacks are designed for long periods of wear. Softly padded shoulder straps and an adjustable hip belt relieve your back and ensure that the weight is distributed evenly. Many models also come with a chest strap for added support.
- Adjustable to body posture: Backpacks designed for hiking have an ergonomic design that supports your natural body posture and ensures a high level of carrying comfort even on longer tours. Special hiking backpacks for women, tailored to the female anatomy, are also available in stores.
- Practical additional features: Many models offer attachment options for hiking poles, sleeping bags, or sleeping pads. Side pockets made of stretch mesh, in which small tools can be stored, also prove to be practical. For backpacks that are not waterproof, a rain cover is sometimes included in the delivery.
- Breathable Design: A crucial feature of hiking backpacks for men and women is their breathability. The backpacks are typically equipped with a special ventilation system that improves air circulation while hiking and ensures that even when fully packed, you won't start sweating as quickly.
From day trips to expeditions: Hiking backpacks for every occasion
To meet the different needs of outdoor enthusiasts, hiking backpacks are available in many different designs. Because while some people are more interested in day hikes, others head into the wilderness for several days. In addition, some hikers prefer a relaxed day in nature, while others want to test their physical limits. Here is an overview of the different types of hiking backpacks:
- Daypacks: With a volume of 10 to 25 liters, the so-called daypacks are relatively compact - and also quite light. They offer enough space for all the important things you need on a day hike (such as food, drinks, and spare clothing). Due to their compact size, daypacks are also great for everyday use.
- Hiking Backpacks: These hiking backpacks are specially designed for multi-day tours. With 25 to 50 liters of storage space (there are also models with even larger capacities), they offer significantly more volume. Due to their robust construction, hiking backpacks are also suitable for carrying heavier loads. They often also feature additional exterior pockets and attachment points for additional equipment such as hiking poles.
- Mountaineering Backpacks: Models also known as alpine backpacks typically feature a relatively narrow design that ensures optimal freedom of movement while mountaineering and climbing. Mountaineering backpacks usually come with various attachment options for your climbing helmet and other equipment. Many backpacks in this category are also equipped with a water-repellent or waterproof coating.
- Lightweight and Ultralight Backpacks: This type of backpack is ideal for those who value minimal weight or travel with minimal equipment. In some models, for example, an elaborate carrying system is usually omitted, making the backpacks slightly lighter.
However, hiking backpacks cannot only be categorized based on their intended use. Also important is who is carrying the backpack. Whether for men, women, or children - for every wanderlust, there is the perfect backpack tailored to the needs or requirements of the respective group.
Hiking backpacks for women
Women's hiking backpacks are specially designed to fit the female body. To ensure a perfect fit, the shoulder straps are slightly narrower and the back area is often a bit shorter. As a result, women's hiking backpacks are generally also somewhat lighter than the models for men.
Hiking backpacks for men
Men's backpacks are typically designed for larger statures. With wider shoulder straps and longer back panels, they ensure optimal carrying comfort and stability even when heavily loaded. Whether you are looking for a hiking backpack with a capacity of 30 liters or need a backpack with a volume of 50 liters or more, you can find a men's hiking backpack in various sizes.
Hiking backpacks for children
Children's hiking backpacks are designed to make hiking enjoyable and safe for young adventurers. They have a lower weight than models designed for adults and also feature child-friendly carrying systems. Hiking backpacks for children are available in cheerful designs that inspire and motivate the little ones to explore nature.
Buy hiking backpacks: These buying criteria should be considered
Whether a hike resembles a leisurely excursion into nature or a strenuous trek also depends on the backpack you choose. To find the model that perfectly suits your needs and planned activities, you should consider various variables when making your purchase decision. Key factors to consider include:
- Size and Volume: Consider how much gear you typically take with you. For day trips, small hiking backpacks (10 to 25 liters) are sufficient, while for longer hikes, larger models (30 to 50 liters or more) are required.
- Material: The durability and weather resistance of your backpack depend heavily on the material. A hiking backpack must not only be durable, but ideally also water-repellent or waterproof.
- Comfort: A good backpack should be comfortable to carry and easily adjustable to fit the individual's body size and shape. Look for adjustable straps and a padded back panel. The carrying system should distribute weight evenly and prevent back pain.
- Weather resistance: Unless you're hiking in the desert, it may rain from time to time. Therefore, a weather-resistant backpack for hiking is almost essential. Check if the hiking backpack is made of waterproof material or at least has an integrated rain cover.
- Additional features: Additional functions such as outer pockets, attachment points for equipment, and integrated hydration systems can make your hikes more comfortable and practical. Which features should be included is, of course, also a matter of personal preference.
Especially on multi-day tours, you should also pay attention to the weight of the backpack. For example, if you hike uphill for three hours, a few hundred grams more or less quickly make themselves felt. Depending on the volume, carrying system, and equipment, the weight of hiking backpacks varies between 500 grams and three kilograms.
Hiking backpacks pack like pros: Every inch counts
Packing a hiking backpack correctly is an art in itself. It's not just about having everything you need, but also about optimizing weight and space. Here are some tips on how to pack your backpack like a pro:
- Heavy items at the bottom: Pack heavy items like tent, cooking set, or water bottles close to your back and at the bottom of the backpack. This keeps the center of gravity low and close to your body, improving balance.
- Light items on top: Light items such as clothing and sleeping bag belong on top. This ensures a good weight distribution and makes it easier to access frequently needed items.
- Efficient use of space: Utilize every available space. Clothing, for example, can be stuffed into gaps to fill voids and stabilize the contents of the backpack.
- Important items at hand: Items you frequently need such as snacks, map, compass, or rain jacket should be stored in the outer pockets or top compartment so you can access them quickly.
- Waterproof Packaging: Use waterproof bags or packing cubes to protect your gear from moisture, especially in changing weather conditions.
- Checklist: Create a packing list to make sure you don't forget anything important and only take the essentials.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your hiking backpack not only contains everything you need for your adventure, but is also comfortable to carry. A well-packed backpack makes hiking more enjoyable and helps you tackle any challenge on the trail more easily.
Order outdoor equipment cheaply at Meister Messer
At Meister Messer, you will find not only hiking backpacks in various designs, but also a wide range of other equipment for outdoor trips. In our online shop, you will also find, for example, Survival gear, Clothing, and everything you need for Camping – So browse through the selection now and buy high-quality outdoor equipment at first-class prices online.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about "Hiking Backpacks"
How do I choose the right size for my hiking backpack?
The size of the backpack should be chosen based on the duration of your hikes and the amount of gear you want to bring along. For day hikes, backpacks with a volume of 10 to 25 liters are usually sufficient, while for longer trips, 30 to 50 liters or more are recommended.
Are hiking backpacks waterproof?
Waterproof hiking backpacks are also available in stores. However, most models are only water-repellent. For complete protection in heavy rain, it is recommended to use a separate rain cover or choose a backpack with an integrated rain cover.
How important is the carrying system of a hiking backpack?
A good carrying system also ensures pleasant comfort on longer tours. It should distribute the weight evenly to avoid back pain. Pay attention to adjustable and padded shoulder straps as well as a hip belt to be able to adjust the backpack optimally to your body.
Can a hiking backpack also be used in everyday life?
Yes, many hiking backpacks are versatile enough for daily use. Daypacks and lightweight or ultralight backpacks are particularly well-suited for everyday use, as they are compact yet provide enough storage space for everyday items.
