Which backpack is the right one?

Multi-day hikes with your own luggage can only really be enjoyed if you have a well-fitting backpack of the right size! Especially on tours that are physically demanding, your backpack should neither push nor pull, but sit well on the body and distribute the weight evenly.

In my opinion, anyone who is still looking for a suitable backpack should definitely seek advice from a specialist shop. Backpacks are often cheaper online - how a backpack fits on your body can only be judged when you try it on! Due to the many adjustment options that trekking or touring backpacks usually offer, it is also extremely helpful if you can have the backpack adjusted to your own body size by a professional in the sports shop.

As a guide for buying a backpack in a specialty shop, here are a few points that apply specifically to the hikes that we have here WandernDeluxe suggest:

• Which backpack type? You need a hiking or trekking backpack for multi-day hikes with light luggage (approx. 10 to 12 kg + water), ie hiking luggage without a sleeping mat, tent and sleeping bag, because you can sleep in fixed accommodations on the way.
• What is the right size? Your backpack should have a capacity of between 40 and 50 liters. As a rule, some air remains during the hike. But especially on arrival and departure, the additional volume is quickly used up, for example if you want to transport your hiking boots and hiking poles with you in a backpack.
• For you or for him? As almost everywhere, there are models especially for men and especially for women. In the case of backpacks, however, this distinction makes exceptional sense: not because of the color but because of the shape adapted to the anatomy.
• Does the brand play a role in quality? Frankly: I don't know. We can only report that our backpacks bought in 2011 (I: Ospray, she: Deuter) still inspire us in 2017. So far, there have been no significant signs of wear on both of them - even though we use it for several weeks every year and sometimes for several months! 

PS: The backpack in the picture above is the 2011 model of the "Deuter ACT Lite 45 + 10 SL", which is still available today. The two numbers in the model designation stand for 45 liters of volume, which can be expanded by an additional 10 liters if required: the main compartment has a hose that can be pulled out upwards and has its own laces. However, the 45 liters were completely sufficient on our hikes.