Are you planning to trek several kilometres with a backpack on your back?

In total autonomy, you'll need to carry your bivouac tent, sleeping bag, ultralight mattress, water, food, stove, merino wool technical clothing to limit odors, among other small items. You'll need a "large capacity" trekking rucksack, from 50 L upwards. These large-load trekking backpacks are designed to adapt to your morphology and help you carry your trekking gear optimally, with adapted, padded shoulder straps and waistbands to enhance comfort.

As a guide, here's a table showing the relationship between your weight and the weight of your backpack:



Adult weight (male or female)

Recommended total backpack weight

Maximum total backpack weight

50 kg

7.5 kg

10 kg

65 kg

9.75 kg

13 kg

70 kg

10.5 kg

14 kg

90 kg

13.5 kg

18 kg




trekking



Choosing the right backpack for your frame

Depending on the brand and model, there are different frames, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. To help you make the right choice, here are the different trekking backpack frames.

  1. Hiking backpacks with stretched mesh frames

These are the most ventilated backpacks, as the taut mesh frame allows air to pass between the bag and the wearer's back. These backpacks are ideal for summer and hot climates in general. What's more, this frame gives the impression of not having a bag on your back. On the other hand, the fact that there is space between the mesh and the backpack means that the load of the backpack is necessarily shifted somewhat to the rear. This type of backpack should not be overloaded (maximum 8 kg). Also, avoid this frame on steep terrain and for active walking, as it is not ergonomic.

  1. Hiking backpacks with foam padding

This type of padded foam frame allows for more ergonomic carrying on the wearer's back. This type of backpack is the ideal choice for stability and ergonomics on your treks. Very comfortable, you can carry heavy loads with these bags. As for the disadvantages, the fact that they are padded at the back, shoulder straps and waist increases the weight of the rucksack when empty, but when you're planning to carry a heavy load, you're not far behind, and it's better to have a comfortable, stable and ergonomic rucksack to feel the weight of the rucksack less. This type of frame is also less breathable.

  1. Hanging mesh backpacks

With this type of frame, you have a compromise between the other two. Hiking backpacks with suspended mesh allow you to carry heavy loads, while remaining ergonomic and comfortable to carry, thanks to the 3D flexible suspended mesh, which also provides good back ventilation. The Osprey backpack range features this frame.


trekking


Other important backpack components

  1. Shoulder straps and waist belt

On this type of heavy-duty backpack, the shoulder straps and waist belt are generally made of the same materials as the back of the backpack, either foam or mesh. If you know you're going to be carrying a heavy load, it's essential to check that the backpack has padded shoulder straps and waist belt, as this will have a direct impact on your comfort. Long-distance hiking and trekking backpacks are designed for this purpose, and are equipped with dense, comfortable foams all over the backpack frame, perfectly suited to heavy loads.

  1. Access, pockets and accessories

To narrow down your choice, it's time to focus on the practicality of your hiking backpack. For this, you need to look at all the pockets, the different accesses to the backpack and the accessories with which your choices are equipped. There are no rules here: you need to look at what you find most practical for your use, whether a top opening is right for you or whether you prefer side access as well, or whether other backpacks allow you to open the U-shaped compartment... In this case, you need to test the different accesses carefully to find out which one suits you best.

Depending on the model, small accessories can make all the difference: rain cover included, pole holder, secret pockets, hydration bag pocket and pipette outlet... We tell you more about the essentials to take with you on your treks.


trekking


Our top 5 trekking bags

If you're a keen hiker preparing for a multi-day trek, the choice of backpack is crucial. A good backpack should offer comfort, durability, storage capacity and good weight distribution to accompany you over long distances. Here's our selection of the 5 best hiking backpacks, suitable for long treks with heavy loads.

sac-a-dos-osprey-atmos-ag-65-black.jpg

1. OSPREY Atmos AG 65: comfort above all else

  • Capacity: 65L

  • Weight: 2.18kg

  • Price: €330

TheOSPREY Atmos AG 65 is distinguished by its Anti-Gravity (AG) suspension system, which offers perfect weight distribution. This bag is designed for long tours with heavy loads. The AG system, in particular, keeps the back fresh and ventilated thanks to a mesh that extends over the entire bag. The shoulder straps and harness are fully adjustable, offering personalized comfort, ideal for trekkers tackling varied terrain conditions.

Numerous side and front pockets provide easy access to your gear, while the lightweight, robust structure ensures high durability without compromising comfort. This bag is ideal for hikers looking for a spacious, ultra-comfortable pack suitable for long distances and heavy loads.




2. MILLET Prolighter 60+20: versatility for adventure

  • Capacity: 60L + 20L (extension)

  • Weight: 1.55 kg

  • Price: €249.90

The MILLET Prolighter 60+20 is a bag designed for experienced hikers who need flexibility. With its 60L capacity, it can be enlarged by 20L thanks to an extension, allowing you to adapt its volume to the duration of your trek or the type of equipment you're carrying. This bag is made of lightweight, durable materials, with reinforcements in sensitive areas.

Comfortable carrying is ensured by the back ventilation system and ergonomic shoulder straps. The bag is well organized, with accessible compartments for easy access to your gear. This model is an excellent option for trekking where storage capacity and lightness are priorities.


3. GREGORY Focal 48 RC LG: lightweight and compact

  • Capacity: 48L

  • Weight: 1.25kg

  • Price: €229.95

If you're a backpacker who prefers to travel light without sacrificing comfort, the GREGORY Focal 48 RC LG could be your ideal choice. Although it has a smaller capacity than the other models on this list, it's still sufficient for multi-day treks where you need to reduce the weight of your equipment. The adjustable suspension system ensures even weight distribution, reducing back fatigue.

This model is also designed with side pockets and a compression system, allowing you to optimize space according to your needs. This bag is a perfect option for those looking for a lightweight, compact bag that's still roomy enough for a few days' hiking.



4. Ferrino Transalp 50: robust and accessible

  • Capacity: 50L

  • Weight: 2.15 kg

  • Price: €209.90

The Ferrino Transalp 50 is a versatile bag offering excellent value for money. With its 50L capacity, it is perfectly suited to multi-day trekking. Its design offers a good compromise between lightness and sturdiness. The back is well ventilated, reducing perspiration during long treks.

This model features numerous compartments and side pockets for quick access to your essential gear. It's designed to withstand tough conditions, making it an ideal choice for hikers who need a reliable bag without breaking the bank.



5. RAB Hyperon 65: Designed for tough conditions

  • Capacity: 65L

  • Weight: 2.6 kg

  • Price: €339.90

The RAB Hyperon 65 is a bag designed for the most demanding hiking conditions. Whether trekking in mountainous environments or under harsh weather conditions, this model stands out for its robustness and weather resistance. The ventilation system on the back reduces heat and humidity, increasing comfort during long days of walking.

This bag is ideal for hikers who need a reliable model for tough expeditions. With its 65L capacity and numerous pockets, it offers ample storage volume while remaining comfortable to wear.




Conclusion: Which bag should you choose for your trek?

The choice of backpack depends on your priorities: comfort, weight, storage capacity and durability. Here are our recommendations:

  • For comfort: theOSPREY Atmos AG 65 offers unrivalled comfort thanks to its Anti-Gravity system.

  • For best value: the Ferrino Transalp 50 combines lightness, strength and affordability.

  • For light trekking: the GREGORY Focal 48 RC LG is perfect if you need to travel light.

  • For long treks in difficult conditions: the RAB Hyperon 65 is a robust bag for demanding terrain.

  • For versatility: the MILLET Prolighter 60+20 with its volume extension is ideal for a wide variety of situations.

Whatever your choice, these backpacks are designed to accompany you on your longest and most demanding adventures, offering comfort and reliability at every stage of the journey.


sac à dos randonnée