Is My Pack Too Big?
Choosing the right pack size can be surprisingly tricky. Trip type, duration, and personal preference all play a role. But going bigger than you need often creates more problems than it solves.
Quick answer: If your backpack is larger than your gear requires, it will likely encourage you to carry unnecessary weight. Most hikers are more comfortable with a pack that fits their gear closely, keeps the load stable, and matches the length of their trip.
Why an Oversized Pack Works Against You
A larger pack invites extra gear. People tend to keep adding things if there’s room, and that leads to a load that’s heavier and bulkier than necessary. More weight means more energy spent, more fatigue, and a greater chance of sore muscles, joint strain, or injury.
A pack that’s too big can also allow the load to shift, making it less stable and less comfortable. If you're looking for the right fit, it’s worth starting with a pack designed for your trip length, like the options in our hiking backpack collection.
The Hidden Cost of Carrying Too Much
Extra gear isn’t just physical weight. It’s mental clutter too.
I remember thinking I had a great cook kit until my first hike with it and realized there was simply too much stuff. I simplified it from eleven items to seven, and it immediately became easier to manage and more enjoyable to use.
That same principle applies to your whole setup. When I downsized from a 60-liter pack at 30 pounds to a 34-liter pack at 16 pounds, I gained freedom and comfort. I could pay more attention to the woods around me and less attention to my aching legs.
Finding the Balance
Some people genuinely enjoy carrying more, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But it’s worth asking yourself two simple questions for every item:
- Do I really need this?
- Will I actually use it?
If the answer is uncertain, leave it behind and reconsider on your next trip.
A couple of comfort items are perfectly fine. A small pillow, a favorite snack, a book. The key is keeping them intentional rather than automatic.
Choosing the Right Pack
Pick a pack that fits what you truly need, plus one or two things that make your trip feel good. Start by looking at packs built for the kind of trips you take most often, like those in our hiking backpack collection.
Just as important as size is fit. Make sure the pack fits your body properly. A pack that fits well and carries weight comfortably is one you’ll want to use again and again. Proper fit turns a pack into a partner rather than a burden.
Happy hiking!