Hey everyone, I’m on the hunt for a sturdy backpack that can handle 25kg+. I’m planning to do some long-term trekking and a bit of camping in forests—basically, it’ll be my home for a while. I need something reliable that can fit food for 4-6 days plus my heavier sleeping gear. I’m thinking at least 70L capacity, but I’m not into military styles because I want to keep things low-key. I’m based in Canada, so would prefer gear I can get here without too much hassle.
5 Likes
Maybe look into something like Deuter Aircontact or Osprey Aether. I prefer Osprey because it got a lifetime warranty but I use the Aether 70, it’s comfortable, even when loaded heavy. They don’t scream military.
1 Like
I think you could do without a heavy-duty framed pack. A frameless one like the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 4400 could fit your needs. It’s a bit pricier but super light, and if you’re careful about how you pack, it handles weight pretty well.
Do you think 70L is enough for long-term, or should I go bigger?
70L should be fine for most trips unless you’re packing a kitchen sink. If you’re worried, maybe bump up to 75-80L, but I’d keep an eye on weight—overpacking kills your back.
1 Like
I wouldn’t go too crazy on the liters because more space = more temptation to overpack, which sucks after day one. I’ve been on 3-week hikes with a 65L pack, no problem. I mean just focus on packing light and smart, rather than just loading up.
3 Likes
Gotta chime in on the frameless pack idea. I was hesitant at first, but once you ditch the frame, you realize how much unnecessary weight those things add. You need to learn how to pack properly, but it’s worth it. Plus, it’s easier to stuff in weird places when you’re hitchhiking or squeezing into small camping spots.
2 Likes
I think I’ll stick around 70L then. Don’t wanna kill my back before I even set up camp, lol.
1 Like
Haha, yeah, nothing worse than hating your pack after day 1. You got this.
Eh, I tried frameless once, and my back hated me for it. Maybe I’m just bad at packing (lol), but I need that structure to keep things from poking into me. Frameless is definitely for the minimalist crowd.
One random thing—hip belt pockets. I never knew how much I needed those until I got a pack with ‘em. Snacks, phone, small tools… they’re cool on trails.
Haha, I thought I was the only one obsessed with hip belt pockets 
Anyway don’t stress it too much. You’ll learn what you need after your first trip, and you can always adjust how you pack as you go.