Hey Folks
Why This Question Is So Difficult to Answer
One of the questions we invariably get for Alaska backpacking trips is “what size backpack do I need?“. Just as with every other item in my backpacking gear list, this is one of those both critical questions to ask and also an impossible question to answer without a lot more context.
I’ll try to explain why below.
The question “what size should my backpack be?” is a little like asking me “what size tent you should bring?” The best I can do is offer some information that might be useful in helping you answer the question yourself.
Why? Because there is such a large degree of subjectivity in the answer.
What You Actually Need from a Backpack
Your ideal backpack must satisfy three requirements:
- Fits all your gear comfortably
- Carries well for you personally
- Isn’t so large that you fill it with unnecessary items
The best approach is to assess your complete gear system first, then choose a pack that accommodates it.
How to Determine Your Required Pack Size
Step 1: Assemble Your Complete Gear System
So perhaps the best place to start is assess all the rest of your trip backpacking gear.
Assemble all your gear as if you’re packing for the trip. Include space for food (typically one BV 500, size 8.7 in. dia. (22.1cm) x 12.7 in. (32.3cm) height. Add in a little extra space for extra group gear such as a stove or fuel can, or whatever. Remember you’re probably going to add another item or three before you go.
That’s your total volume. That’s how big your pack should be.
Step 2: Consider Your Experience Level
Since so many people have backpacked primarily 2-4 day night trips, and have very little experience with 7-12 day trips, it’s quite probable that your pack is a little on the small side for a long trip (like the majority of ours tend to be). That may mean you need to shop for a new backpack. Here’s a long article on what to look for in a backpack.
The Critical Rule: Keep Gear Inside Your Pack
As a general rule I’m not a fan on having to carry gear outside your pack strapped or lashed to the outside. Doing so is a recipe for losing your gear (as anyone who’s bushwhacked through Alaska alder and willow can tell you).
Because of this, you want virtually everything to fit inside your pack. All the time.
Gear Volume Variables That Matter Most
High-Impact Volume Factors
The biggest volume variables are
- Tent type and size
- Sleeping bag bulk (varies inversely with weight and cost)
- Sleeping pad (inflatable vs. foam, dimensions)
- Clothing system efficiency
- Cookware choices
Those things, particularly the first few above, vary tremendously in size and bulk (usually inversely with weight and cost). Premium gear tends to be lighter and more compressible but costs more. Budget gear typically takes up more space.
I typically fit my sleeping bag, my sleeping bad, and virtually all my clothing in the bottom compartment of my pack. My sleeping bag stuffs down to a small size, my pad the same way; and I have a fairly efficient clothing system that works for me.
Your system may not be as compact. Or it may be more compact.
General Size Recommendation: 65L Minimum
For most adults on Alaska backpacking trips longer than 5 days, I recommend a 65L pack minimum.
Shorter Trips
A shorter trip you MIGHT get away with a smaller pack. But remember most of those bulky items will be consistent trip to trip, whether it’s a 4 day trip or a 10 day trip. Food and fuel tend to be the variables.
The Minimalist Exception
We’ve had folks come out for an 11-12 day trip with a very minimalist rig and carry a 45L pack, comfortably fitting all their gear. But someone with a good setup like that is probably NOT unsure about what pack to bring. They have their gear and their systems in place and it’s all dialed. They’re not likely to be asking me what size pack they need. So as a general rule, that size backpack will not work for you.
This approach certainly doesn’t work for me or any of the guides in our little crew.
When You Might Need Different Capacity
Situations Requiring Less Than 65L
Obviously there’s some wiggle room here. If you’re coming as a couple or group, you might be able to share items such as a tent, etc and not need exactly 65L of backpack for yourself. Or you might have a cheaper bulkier sleeping system that requires larger a backpack to fit it.
Those variables all matter more than the number I listed above. But as a general rule, you need a large backpack if you’re going out into the backcountry for a 7-10 day backpacking trip.
The Golden Rule of Backpack Selection
Get your backpacking gear system together FIRST. Your backpack accommodates that system, not the other way around.
Cheers
Carl
Quick Reference Guide
Minimum Recommended Sizes
- 7-10 day Alaska trips: 65L minimum for most adults
- 5-6 day trips: 55-65L
- Under 5 days: 45-55L possible (but consider future needs)
Critical Considerations
- Everything should fit inside (not strapped outside)
- Account for bear canister (BV 500 or similar)
- Include buffer space for group gear
- Plan for 2-3 items you’ll add later
Variables That Increase Required Size
- Budget/bulkier sleeping systems
- Larger tents
- Less compressible clothing
- Cold weather requirements
- Photography equipment
