Backpacks come in a wide range of sizes, styles and constructions, and the right choice depends heavily on how you intend to use it. A pack suited to a weekend hiking trip looks very different from one designed for daily commuting or extended travel. Getting clear on your use case before comparing options will save a lot of time.
Capacity, Fit and Load Distribution
Capacity is usually measured in litres and is one of the first things to consider. Smaller daypacks work well for short walks and day trips, while multi-day hiking backpacks need enough room for clothing, shelter, food and kit. Beyond volume, how a pack fits your back matters just as much as how much it holds.
Many hiking-focused backpacks include an adjustable harness system, padded hip belt and load-lifter straps — features that shift weight from your shoulders to your hips on longer carries. A backpack for women will often have a shorter back length and a harness shaped to better suit female torso proportions, so it's worth checking fit specifications rather than assuming a unisex pack will work for everyone.
Materials and Weather Resistance
Most backpacks use nylon or polyester as the primary fabric. Both are durable, but they differ in how they handle abrasion and weight. Nylon tends to be stronger relative to its weight, while polyester generally holds its colour better under UV exposure.
Weather resistance is a key consideration for outdoor use in the UK. Some packs come with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating that handles light rain, but this is not the same as being fully waterproof. A genuinely waterproof backpack typically uses welded seams and waterproof zips or a roll-top closure to keep water out more effectively. For hiking in wetter conditions, it's worth understanding the difference rather than assuming any pack labelled water-resistant will keep contents dry in heavy rain.
Pack Features Worth Comparing
Beyond capacity and material, a few practical features are worth comparing when choosing a backpack:
- Hip belt pockets — useful for keeping snacks or a phone accessible on the trail
- Hydration compatibility — many hiking packs include a sleeve and port for a water reservoir
- External attachment points — handy for trekking poles, sleeping mats or wet gear
- Organisation — multiple compartments and internal pockets help with packing for travel or longer trips
When comparing backpacks at Camping Depot, consider whether the pack's design matches how you'll actually carry it — a travel backpack optimised for airports and hostels will prioritise different features than one built for trails.
