Backpack capacity is almost always measured in liters - a universally accepted standard unit - which makes it much easier to compare backpack sizes across brands. As a rule of thumb, 25-30 liter backpacks are best for shorter weekend trips, while 30-45 liter backpacks are best for longer trips or long-term travel.
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Capacity: 32 liters | 2.4 lbs | Dimensions: 19.7” x 11” x 9.8” 3 compartments | 15 pockets: 7 zipped, 2 bottle holders 1 L, 1 x 17” laptop pocket.
MEDIUM BACKPACKS (20 – 35L)This capacity range is considered a medium-size backpack and is probably the most popular bag capacity out there. It's great for taking to school or work, depending on the styling, and can also be a great travel pack for taking on a plane.
21–35 liters: This is the sweet spot for most hiking and travel daypacks. There's enough capacity to hold food, clothing and some extras, like a camera and a book. 36–50 liters: These larger packs are ideal for trips that require additional clothing and gear, such as climbing, mountaineering or non-summer hiking.
This means it's something you could happily take on a weekend away if you're a light packer, or as a day bag if you need to take a lot of stuff. Another good size for plane travel as well, without any concern with carry-on compliance. Here's a packing list for what you can fit in a 32-34 liter backpack.
This time, we went for the 30L Kono Backpack (£32.99). This is actually the correct size for easyJet. However, those dimensions alone are too big for Ryanair and Wizz Air's baggage allowance.
Expedition Edition (Ultra-Light Thru-Hike, Weekend Trip, or International Travel) ? 30-50 liters. Perhaps you have an extended camping trip on the horizon. Maybe you need to upgrade your travel backpack for those upcoming international trips. A 30L – 50L backpack will be just the ticket.
20 to 29 liters: Best for students and 15- to 16-inch laptops. 30 to 39 liters: For super-size workloads and weekend trips. 50 to 80 liters: For hikers and campers.
A weekend backpack like a standard 40L backpack is big enough to carry a backpacking sleeping bag, small tent, and pad, as well as extra clothing and layers.
BACKPACKS BETWEEN 35–50LIf you want to go on an overnight hike you'll need a hiking backpack big enough to see you through the night. If you want to embrace the 'packing light' philosophy on multi-day hikes, this size will still work for you.
35L should be plenty, but laundry and shoes will be key. I just take one pair of shoes and flip-flops, so I'm able to fit the rest of my stuff (including laptop) into an 18L bag. I use wool shirts and alcohol spray to extend their life, but synthetic shirts and washing in the shower could be another way to go about it.
LARGE BACKPACKS (> 40L)They make for great travel bags when you don't want to check in luggage. Even if you're a heavy packer, you should be able to take a 45L pack away for a weekend. A light packer could easily do with a bag like this for a week.
For middle schoolers, Backpacks designed for 11 – 14-year-olds should measure 18 to 20 inches in length with approximately 16-inch widths spanning up to 8-inch depths. Depending on which grade they attend and how many accessories they plan on taking along with them, having a couple of options between 25-35L is ideal.