Hiking Backpacks / Rucksacks

Whether you're heading out for a day hike, a multi-day trekking adventure, a self-sufficient trip or an evening bivouac at the summit after a challenging alpine ascent, a hiking backpack is an essential piece of kit. There's no room for compromise when choosing your hiking backpack, so 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 catalogue: take your time to find the hiking backpack of your dreams! From the 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 mountain trails, make sure to protect your back by choosing a hiking backpack suited to your activity. In all situations, they should offer both ample storage space and optimal carrying comfort, while remaining 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 - and that's just as true when carrying a child. Choosing a quality hiking backpack tailored to your needs and activity is crucial. For more advice, check out our tutorial on how to properly 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 children

As mentioned above, a poorly adjusted hiking backpack or uneven load can cause discomfort and back pain during your outdoor adventures, but a backpack not designed for your body shape can also lead to discomfort and long-term pain in your back and hips. 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 have 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. Children's models are deliberately more compact in both height and width, so they don't hinder growth and remain easy to handle for the first kilometres: see our selection of kids' backpacks designed for young hikers. To help you find the right backpack, 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 jacket for rain? Ready! The list could go on when checking the contents of your hiking backpack. Since heading into the mountains means planning for every eventuality, hiking backpacks must be able to carry all your essentials without compromising comfort. Capacity is probably the most important factor when buying. It all starts with the same question: what will you carry and for how long? For more guidance, see our guide on choosing a hiking backpack suited to your activity. Our extensive selection of hiking backpacks, chosen by our hiking experts, is sure to meet your expectations! Plus, almost every model comes in several colours: black, red, blue, green... just pick your favourite!

The capacity you need depends entirely on how you plan to use your mountain backpack: whether it's for a day hike, a bivouac at the summit, a multi-day trek, or tackling the best long-distance hiking routes, your needs will differ. To help you decide, 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 details.

• 20L backpack: With its featherweight design and compact size, the 20-litre backpack is ideal for day hikes, letting you carry water, a 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 slightly more weight, this is perfect for day hikes lasting 6 to 7 hours, where you may need to stop several times for meals during your outing.

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. See 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 hikes with a bivouac. Perfect for a night under the stars.
• 50L backpack: At the upper end of medium capacity, this lets you carry all the gear needed for 1-3 day hikes: bivouac kit (tent, mat, cooking gear, stove), food, hydration bladder, and any other essentials.

60L and above for long-distance treks

Above 60 litres, these are for experienced hikers heading out self-sufficiently for several days or even weeks, sometimes to places with 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 self-sufficient destinations with no refuges.
• 70L backpack: Slightly larger than the previous model, this serves the same purpose but with 10 extra litres and inevitably more weight. We recommend this size for experienced users who know exactly what they need.
• 80L backpack: From 80 litres upwards, you're in the very large capacity category. These are often used by the most adventurous travellers looking for a versatile backpack that can double as both a travel and hiking pack, without having to lug a suitcase around.

The best hiking backpacks from top brands

The leading brands are constantly innovating to create the lightest, most comfortable and enjoyable products, so if you're after a backpack with flawless design, you'll be spoilt for choice! 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 backs and pre-shaped hip belts, especially appreciated on long distances. Deuter focuses on its Aircomfort mesh back system, a reference for hot weather hiking. 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 demanding mountain use. These highly functional products are packed with features to make your life easier: pockets, integrated rain cover, hydration bladder compartment, 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 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 compartment for your hydration bladder, essential for longer efforts;
• hip belt pockets easily accessible on the move, so you can grab snacks and 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, sun canopy: the hiking baby carrier makes 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 your hiking backpack

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

The length of your trip 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 hike: 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 trek 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 well-padded, properly sized hip belt that transfers most of the weight to your hips rather than your shoulders;
• a ventilated or mesh back, essential for reducing sweat on long climbs;
• adjustable shoulder straps with load lifters to keep the pack close to your back;
• practical access (front opening, hydration bladder pocket, hip belt pockets) so you can grab things without stopping;
• an integrated waterproof rain cover that saves the day when the weather turns.

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

A well-maintained backpack can last a decade without failing. After each trip, empty it completely and shake it upside down to remove dust and crumbs, which always end up in the 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 very dusty environments.

What accessories and options can improve your hiking backpack experience?

A few well-chosen accessories can transform your carrying experience. A 2 to 3-litre hydration bladder lets you drink on the go via a shoulder tube - once you try it, you won't go back. Trekking poles attach to the side gear loops to free your hands on steep climbs. An internal dry bag protects your sleeping bag and electronics from unexpected downpours, 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 CHF 199, free returns within 60 days, and a free gift with orders over CHF 299 - just a few extras to make your adventure even easier.