Question 1

What capacity small hiking backpack would suit me best?

Accepted Answer

The good news is that hiking backpacks come in all sorts of size specifications—there are ones with 5-liter capacity and also ones with a 40-litre capacity. The sweet spot seems to be the 25 litres, though.

Question 2

What purpose does a ventilation panel serve on a daypack?

Accepted Answer

Ventilation panels serve the purpose of helping regulate your body temperature when you start sweating through your back. They are usually made from foam or mesh.

Question 3

Is it really important to buy a backpack with a suspension system?

Accepted Answer

Yes—if you’re a hiker who needs lots of gear while on the move. Since you’ll be carrying a load on your back for moderate to long distances, a suspension system will lower the pressure on you by evenly distributing weight. If you only pack a few essentials, though, a suspension system doesn’t have to be a priority.

Question 4

Can I use a daypack for long camping trips?

Accepted Answer

Daypacks are designed to be used for day-long hiking trips—they’re not very heavy-duty, and it’s also why they cost significantly less than other backpack types. So, no—you can’t use one for a camping trip, at least, not comfortably!

Hiking

Best Small Hiking Backpacks [Top 10 Picks & Reviews]