Introduction
The backpack (rucksack) is one of the "three essential items" you should prioritize when starting hiking. Just like choosing hiking boots, there are many things to consider, such as capacity, torso length, and price range, and it's easy to get lost about what to base your decision on.
In this article, we will carefully explain the recommended capacity and price range for different uses, the concept of "torso length," which is the most important factor in choosing a backpack, and how to identify and fix the causes of "a strange feeling when trying it on," for which information is surprisingly scarce.
Recommended Backpack Capacity by Use
The required capacity of a backpack varies depending on the type of hiking you plan to do.
| Use | Capacity Guide |
|---|---|
| Day Hiking | 20-30L |
| Hut Stay (1 night) | 30-40L |
| Tent Camping / Multi-day Traverse | 50L or more |
If you are just starting out and "haven't decided on your intended use yet," we recommend a backpack around **30-40L**, which can be used for both day trips and hut stays, as it is versatile for your first purchase.
Recommended Price Range by Capacity
There is a general relationship between capacity and price range (prices vary by brand and model, so please use this as a guide).
| Capacity Range | Estimated Price Range | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 20-30L (for day trips) | Around 8,000 to 18,000 yen | Many models are lightweight and simply constructed. |
| 30-40L (Emphasis on versatility) | Around ¥15,000 - ¥25,000 | Price range where features like hip belts and rain covers start to become substantial. |
| 50L or more (For tent camping) | 25,000 yen and up | The suspension system on the back becomes more robust, designed to carry heavy loads. |
Lower-priced backpacks often have simplified suspension systems that don't support the load with the hips, and if you're carrying heavy loads for long periods, increasing the price range can significantly improve comfort.
The Most Important Factor in Backpack Selection: Torso Length
In choosing a backpack, what affects comfort more than capacity is the 'back length'.
What is Torso Length?
This is the length from the base of the neck (the bone that protrudes when you tuck your chin) to the top of the hip bone. If this length doesn't match your back, even the most high-tech backpack won't be comfortable to wear.
Why is it Important?
Backpacks are designed to support the load not only with the shoulders but also with the hip belt. If the back length doesn't match, the hip belt won't be in the correct position, leading to problems as described later. When purchasing, it's reassuring to have a store staff member measure your back length and choose a model with size options that fit you.
Fitting Basics
To ensure proper fitting, it's important to actually put about 5-10kg of weight in the backpack when purchasing and try it on. You cannot accurately judge comfort when the backpack is empty.
When wearing it, the basic procedure is to first lightly tighten the shoulder straps to place the backpack on your back, then firmly tighten the hip belt at the position of your hip bones, and finally make fine adjustments to the shoulder straps and top straps.
Common Fitting Mistakes and How to Fix Them
If you feel that 'the comfort is somehow bad,' the following causes can be considered:
The hip belt rides up above the stomach
Cause: The back length may be too short for your back. Solution: Remeasure your back length, adjust it if the model has size adjustment features, or consider exchanging it for a different size.
The load concentrates on the shoulders, causing pain
Cause: The back length may be too long, or the hip belt may not be fastened properly. Solution: First, refasten the hip belt firmly over your pelvic bone. If the load is properly supported by your hips, the burden on your shoulders will be greatly reduced.
The backpack swings left and right while walking
Cause: The side compression straps (straps on the sides of the backpack used for tightening) may be loose. Solution: Tighten the compression straps firmly to prevent any gaps between your belongings and the backpack.
You feel like you're being pulled backward while walking
Cause: Heavy items (like food and water) may be packed away from your back or at the bottom of your backpack. If the center of gravity moves away from your body or becomes too low, it becomes difficult to maintain balance. Solution: Pack heavy items as close to your back as possible, ideally around the height of your shoulder blades. This brings the center of gravity closer to your body, making it more stable and easier to walk. Light items like tents and sleeping bags, which are used less frequently, should generally be packed at the bottom.
Summary
When choosing a backpack, the key to avoiding mistakes is to first narrow down the capacity according to its intended use, and then select a size that fits your torso length. When purchasing, try it on with some weight inside. If you feel any discomfort, check the causes based on the failure examples in this article.
For information on how to prepare all your gear, please see the Guide to Essential Gear for Beginner Hikers, and for how to choose hiking boots, please see the Complete Guide to Choosing Hiking Boots.
