Choose the right backpack

An important consideration when choosing a backpack is to think about when you will use it and how much it needs to hold. Is it a backpack for day trips or for multi-day trips? Comfort and fit are also crucial when you are hiking with a backpack.

How to choose a backpack

Before buying a backpack, you need to consider which features are most important to you. How heavy will your load be and in what kind of terrain will walk in? Your personal anatomy also determines which backpack suits you. Men and women may need different backpack models, adapted to factors such as shoulder width, back length, and hip width. It is worth packing the backpack with a heavy load in the store to get an idea of whether it feels good and fits well or not.

• The hip belt, also known as the weight-bearing belt, should rest on your hips and not your waist. This way, you carry the weight of the backpack on your hips and legs.
• The shoulder straps should be in contact with your body all the way from the attachment point on the backpack.
• The chest strap should be tightened so that the shoulder straps stay in the correct position.
• Any compression straps (located between the backpack and the hip belt) make the backpack snug when it is not fully packed. These straps are useful for improving your balance when carrying heavy loads.

Backpack for day trips

For day trips, you need a good backpack that holds 30 liters, preferably 40 liters in the winter. This will give you enough space for snacks, rain gear, an extra sweater for breaks, a first aid kit, and in winter, the mandatory wind bag and shovel if you are in a mountain environment. Some larger backpacks have detachable top lids that can be converted into smaller backpacks. This is useful for shorter day trips when you can leave the larger pack in a cabin or tent.

Large backpack for longer trips and in winter times

For a trip between STF accommodations over several days, you need a bit more space in your backpack, around 50-55 liters. In a large backpack, you can fit a travel sheet or sleeping bag, toiletries, change of clothes, a bit more food, and possibly a camping stove. The size of the backpack depends on whether you carry all your food or eat at the accommodation where you stay.

When you are going on a multi-day expedition, you will likely need a large backpack that holds 60 liters, all the way up to 120 liters. If you sleep in a tent or snow bivouac, the packing volume will be larger because food, a portable stove, a tent, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping mat take up quite a bit of space. Plan for a pack of 80 liters or more. In these cases, the shoulder straps and hip belt of the backpack should be sturdy and padded. As an alternative to a large backpack, you can complement it with a sled for winter trips. This way, you avoid carrying your heavy equipment on your back.

Backpacks with and without frames

There are backpacks with a sturdy, external frame. These can handle larger loads and provide some ventilation on the back. Since they can often be complemented with large packing bags on the frame below and above the actual backpack, frame backpacks are well-suited for long camping trips.

A backpack without a frame or with an internal frame, known as a softpack, is more flexible. It fits closely to the back and provides good stability when you are moving a lot.

Pack your backpack for balance

When hiking, place the heaviest items at the top and closest to your back. This provides the best balance and carrying comfort. Items you don’t need as often can go at the bottom, such as extra clothes and toiletries. Keep your first aid kit, water bottle, and map easily accessible. Make sure to pack your hiking backpack so that each item has its place, possibly in colorful packing bags. This way, you can quickly find what you need in your backpack when it’s dark in the tent. If you manage to pack light and correctly, your trip will always be more enjoyable.

More pages about hiking

Hiking

The amazing thing about hiking in Sweden is that there is always more to discover.

Lists for packing

Are you wondering what you need to pack for a day trip in the mountains or for a longer hike? On this page you will find packing lists for both summer and winter.

The right equipment

Equipment isn’t everything, but being well-prepared always helps. With good shoes and a comfortable backpack, you can go further.