Ah, the fateful moment when you have to choose your travel companion for the adventure! Between the small, light bag and the trail giant, the question of backpack trekking volume is crucial. Don't worry, as fellow adventurers at BaroudeurCamp, we're here to guide you through this maze of liters and liters.
THE ART OF CHOOSING30L, 50L or 70L: the trekker's dilemma
Choosing the right volume for your backpack is a bit like choosing the right vehicle for a road trip: it all depends on the destination, the duration, and what you plan to carry. A bag that's too small and you'll be frustrated leaving essential things behind; a bag that's too big and you risk filling it unnecessarily, weighing down your walk and your morale. Balance is key, my friends!
At BaroudeurCamp, we know that every trek is unique. Whether you're heading out for a day hike, a weekend bivouac, or a multi-week self-sufficient expedition, your bag should be an extension of yourself, a loyal ally that carries your dreams and your gear without weighing you down. So, how do you find your way among 30L, 50L, and 70L?
30 LITERS: THE MINIMALIST
The 30L backpack: for whom, for what?
The 30-liter backpack is the ideal companion for day trips, quick hikes, or light treks with hut accommodation. It's perfect for carrying essentials: water, picnic, rain jacket, small first-aid kit, and a few personal accessories. Its compact size allows for great freedom of movement, and you'll hardly notice it on your back.
This is the volume I often recommend for beginners or those who prioritize absolute lightness. It forces you to be organized and to take only the bare necessities. An excellent way to get acquainted with the art of "lightweight trekking"!
"A good backpack is one you forget on your shoulders, even after hours of walking."
50 LITERS: THE VERSATILE
The 50L backpack: the happy medium for adventure
The 50-liter backpack is arguably the most versatile and popular. It's the Swiss Army knife of trekkers. It offers enough space for a multi-day self-sufficient trek (2 to 5 days, depending on your gear and the season) while remaining manageable in terms of weight and bulk. You can fit your lightweight tent, sleeping bag, mattress, change of clothes, stove, and food.
This is typically the volume I would take for a traverse of the Pyrenees or an extended weekend in the Vercors with bivouac. Our BaroudeurCamp 50L Bag, for example, is designed to optimize every corner, with clever compartments and comfortable carrying, even when loaded.
70 LITERS: THE EXPEDITIONER
The 70L backpack: for long hauls and total autonomy
When the adventure extends for a week or more, when self-sufficiency is total and you need to carry more food, specific equipment (rope, ice axe, elaborate cooking gear) or clothing suitable for extreme conditions, the 70-liter (or more) backpack becomes indispensable. It's the choice for distant expeditions, multi-week massif crossings, or family treks where equipment is shared. It allows you to carry a considerable volume without sacrificing carrying comfort, essential over long distances.
With a BaroudeurCamp 70L Bag, you are assured of generous space and a robust carrying system, capable of effectively distributing the load on your hips and shoulders. It's the kind of bag that becomes a true home on your back, capable of facing the elements and carrying everything you need to live in the wilderness.
| Volume | Trek Duration | Equipment Type | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30L | 1 day / Overnight in refuge | Light clothing, water, meals | Fast hiking, minimalism |
| 50L | 2 to 5 days | Tent, sleeping bag, stove, food | Self-sufficient trek, versatility |
| 70L+ | 1 week and more | Expedition gear, high autonomy, group equipment | Expedition, long trek, winter |
EXPERT ADVICE
How to refine your choice of trekking backpack volume?
Beyond liters, other factors come into play when choosing the perfect backpack trekking volume:
Also consider the compactness of your equipment. A quality down sleeping bag compresses much better than a low-end one. The same goes for an ultra-light tent. Investing in good gear can help you reduce the volume of your bag. Feel free to consult our guides on how to choose your trekking tent or the ultimate sleeping bag guide to optimize your equipment.
50L / 70L Bag
Robust and comfortable bags, designed for adventure and tested on the most demanding trails. Your essential equipment for unforgettable treks.
View product →The right bag for the right adventure
Choosing the right backpack trekking volume is a key step for the success of your adventure. Take the time to assess your real needs, the duration of your trek, the equipment you'll need to carry, and the weather conditions. Remember that the ideal bag is the one that allows you to feel free and light on the trails, not the one that encumbers you. At BaroudeurCamp, we design our bags, like our 50L and 70L Bags, to be true adventure partners, conceived by adventurers for adventurers. So, ready to hit the road?