| Measured in | Litres (L) |
| Day hike | 10-30 L |
| Overnight/light | 30-50 L |
| Multi-day | 50-70 L+ |
Pack volume is a backpack’s carrying capacity, measured in litres. It’s the main way packs are sized: roughly 10-30 L for day hikes, 30-50 L for lightweight overnights, 50-70 L for multi-day backpacking, and 70 L+ for expeditions. The right volume depends on trip length, season, and how bulky your gear is.
Picking a size
Match litres to trip length — a daypack for a day, a big pack for multi-day. Lower base weight (and ultralight gear) lets you size down.
Frequently asked questions
What is pack volume?
Pack volume is the internal carrying capacity of a backpack, expressed in litres. It tells you how much gear the pack holds and is the primary number used to match a pack to a trip — bigger volume for longer trips and bulkier gear.
How many litres do I need?
As a guide: 10-30 L for day hikes, 30-50 L for lightweight overnight trips, 50-70 L for multi-day backpacking, and 70 L+ for expeditions or bulky winter gear. Lighter, more compact gear lets you carry a smaller pack for the same trip.
Is a bigger pack always better?
No — an oversized pack tempts you to overpack, adds weight, and carries less comfortably when underfilled. Match volume to your actual gear and trip; reducing your base weight lets you size down, which is more comfortable and efficient.
Sources
- Choosing a pack — American Hiking Society