Hiking Backpacks / Rucksacks

Whether you're heading out for a day hike, embarking on a multi-day trekking adventure, camping overnight on a mountain summit after a challenging ascent, or simply enjoying an evening bivouac, a hiking backpack is an essential piece of kit. With no room for compromise when choosing your hiking backpack, we offer a wide selection of models with varied features and accessories to meet all your needs. Capacity, weight, volume, colour-you'll be spoilt for choice in our extensive range: take your time to browse and find the hiking backpack of your dreams! From hiking and trekking backpacks for day trips to models designed for mountaineering, our experts have selected a complete range for all your mountain adventures.

Hiking backpacks: your best ally for every adventure

Before you set off on the mountain trails, make sure to protect your back by choosing a hiking backpack suited to your needs. Your backpack should always offer enough volume and storage options, optimal carrying comfort, and be as lightweight as possible. Whether you're carrying 10, 20, or 30 kg of gear, a poorly adjusted backpack or uneven weight distribution will guarantee back pain for the duration of your trek-this is just as true when carrying a child. Choosing a quality hiking backpack tailored to your activity and needs is essential. For more advice, check out our tutorial on how to adjust your hiking backpack and our selection of the best hiking backpacks. Don't forget the rest of your hiking gear: walking boots, tents, trekking poles, technical clothing... And if you're a fan of the American brand, take a look at our range of The North Face hiking backpacks.

A wide range of hiking backpacks for your mountain outings

Backpacks for men, women, and kids

As mentioned above, a poorly adjusted backpack or uneven weight distribution can cause discomfort and back pain during your outdoor adventures. Equally, a backpack not designed for your body shape may not be comfortable and could lead to back and hip pain over time. That's why a hiking backpack should fit your anatomy perfectly, whether you're a man, woman, or child (though some unisex models are cleverly designed to suit everyone). Women's backpacks typically feature a shorter back length, narrower and contoured shoulder straps to fit the chest, and a hip belt shaped for female hips. Men's backpacks offer longer back lengths and a less pronounced hip belt. Kids' models are deliberately more compact in both height and width, so they don't hinder growth and remain easy to handle for young hikers-see our selection of kids' backpacks designed for young adventurers. To help you find the right fit, use our "Gender" filter to sort between men's, women's, and kids' models.

How to choose the right volume for your hiking backpack

Several litres of water? Check! A sleeping bag for the night? Sorted! A waterproof jacket? Ready! The list can be long when checking your hiking backpack's contents. Since mountain adventures require planning for every eventuality, hiking backpacks must carry all your essentials without compromising comfort. Capacity is probably the most important factor when buying. It all starts with one question: what will you carry, and for how long? For guidance, see our guide on choosing a hiking backpack suited to your activity. Our extensive selection, chosen by our hiking experts, is sure to meet your expectations! Plus, almost every model comes in a range of colours: black, red, blue, green... the choice is yours!

Your chosen capacity will depend entirely on how you plan to use your mountain backpack: whether it's for a day hike, an overnight bivouac, a multi-day trek, or tackling the best long-distance routes, your needs will differ. Here are our suggestions and recommendations for the ideal capacity in detail:

20L to 30L backpacks for day hikes

For short outings, lightness and minimalist carrying are key. A volume between 20 and 30 litres is more than enough for the essentials: hydration bladder, snacks, windbreaker, head torch, first aid kit, and a few small accessories. See our day hiking backpacks for more options.

• 20L backpack: Lightweight and compact, the 20-litre backpack is ideal for day hikes, carrying your water, head torch, windbreaker, and small accessories in handy pockets-everything you need for short hikes or even trail running!
• 30L backpack: With a bit more space and weight, this is perfect for day hikes lasting 6 to 7 hours, where you may need to stop several times for meals.

40L to 50L backpacks for multi-day hikes

For trips lasting one to three nights, you'll need a medium-capacity backpack, between 40 and 50 litres. This is the most versatile range: enough space for a tent, sleeping bag, mat, cooking gear, stove, and food, without making carrying a burden. Discover our dedicated range of 40L backpacks for multi-day hikes.

• 40L backpack: With its 40-litre capacity, this is a medium-sized backpack, ideal for 1-2 day hikes or short trips with an overnight bivouac-perfect for a night under the stars.
• 50L backpack: At the upper end of medium capacity, this will carry all the gear you need for 1-3 day hikes: bivouac equipment (tent, mat, cooking gear, stove), food, hydration bladder, and any other essentials.

60L and above for long-distance treks

Above 60 litres, these backpacks are for experienced hikers heading out for several days or weeks, often in complete autonomy where there are no refuges to lighten the load. For winter conditions or family expeditions, allow an extra ten litres for additional layers.

• 60L backpack: This is a large-capacity backpack, ideal for backpackers on long-distance treks over several days, especially in remote areas without access to refuges.
• 70L backpack: Slightly larger than the previous model, this offers 10 extra litres and will be heavier. We recommend this size for experienced users who know exactly what they need.
• 80L backpack: At 80 litres and above, these are very large-capacity backpacks, often used by the most adventurous travellers looking for a versatile bag that can serve as both a travel and hiking backpack, without having to carry a suitcase throughout the trip.

The best hiking backpacks from top brands

With leading brands constantly innovating to create the lightest, most comfortable, and most enjoyable products, you're sure to find a model with impeccable design! With brands like Osprey, Deuter, Millet, and Gregory, all experts in hiking and trekking backpacks, each stands out with iconic models and countless advantages. Osprey is renowned for its AntiGravity back systems and pre-shaped hip belts, especially appreciated on long distances. Deuter focuses on its Aircomfort mesh back system, a reference for hiking in hot weather. Gregory is known for its precise adjustment systems and the iconic Baltoro, while Millet, a historic French brand, maintains a strong focus on mountaineering and technical mountain use. Highly functional, these products are packed with features to make your life easier: pockets, integrated rain covers, hydration bladder sleeves, and plenty of details that make all the difference! Say goodbye to back pain from poorly designed backpacks-enjoy your journey to the summit and relax after a rewarding day's hike.

When it comes to features, the most advanced models include a range of details that make a real difference on the trail:

• a ventilated mesh back panel to reduce sweating on long climbs;
• an integrated, waterproof rain cover that saves the day when the weather turns;
• side compression straps to stabilise lighter loads;
• a dedicated hydration bladder sleeve, essential for longer efforts;
• hip belt pockets that are easy to access on the move, so you can grab snacks or your phone without stopping.

Family hike? Choose a hiking baby carrier

If you want to hike as a family and let your little one enjoy the scenery, a hiking baby carrier is a must. To ensure both carrier and child are comfortable, our products are designed for support and comfort. Padded back, cushioned headrest, hip belt, sunshade-hiking baby carriers make you feel light as a feather, without disturbing your child's nap. Discover our full range on the hiking baby carrier backpacks page.

FAQ: How to choose the right hiking backpack

How do you choose a hiking backpack based on trip length and difficulty?

Trip duration is the main factor for choosing the right capacity, but terrain difficulty and season are just as important. Here are the main guidelines we use in-store:

• day hikes: 20 to 30 litres, enough for water, snacks, windbreaker, and first aid kit;
• one to three nights in summer bivouac: 40 to 50 litres, to add tent, sleeping bag, and cooking gear;
• challenging treks or full autonomy: 60 to 80 litres, essential for carrying food and safety equipment;
• winter conditions or technical terrain: allow an extra 10 litres for additional layers.

What features should you look for in a comfortable hiking backpack?

Beyond capacity and fit, a few details make a backpack a true long-term companion:

• a padded, well-sized hip belt that transfers most of the weight to your hips rather than your shoulders;
• a ventilated or mesh back panel, essential for reducing sweat on long climbs;
• adjustable shoulder straps with load lifters to keep the pack close to your back;
• easy access (front opening, hydration sleeve, hip belt pockets) so you can grab things without stopping;
• an integrated waterproof rain cover, a lifesaver when the weather changes.

How do you care for and clean a hiking backpack to ensure its longevity?

A well-maintained backpack can last a decade or more. After each trip, empty it completely and shake it upside down to remove dust and crumbs that always find their way into seams. For a deeper clean, always hand wash: use lukewarm water, mild soap like Marseille soap, and a soft brush on high-wear areas (straps, hip belt, base), then air dry inside out and out of direct sunlight, which can damage technical fabrics. Avoid washing machines, tumble dryers, and harsh detergents-they damage seams and destroy the original water repellency. Remember to reproof the rain cover periodically with a suitable spray, and lubricate zips after trips in salty or dusty environments.

What accessories and options can improve your hiking backpack experience?

A few well-chosen accessories can transform your carrying experience. A 2-3 litre hydration bladder lets you drink on the go via a shoulder tube-a comfort you won't want to give up. Trekking poles attach to side gear loops to free your hands on steep climbs. An internal dry bag protects your sleeping bag and electronics from unexpected rain, while extra compression straps help stabilise lighter loads. On the most advanced trekking models, a U-shaped opening gives easy access to the bottom of the pack without unpacking everything, and the removable lid converts into a handy pouch for summit pushes or hut arrivals.

For added convenience, our hiking backpack range comes with free delivery from €199, free returns within 60 days, and a free gift with orders over €299-just a few extras to make your adventure even easier.