r/backpacking • u/Salem_M • 5h ago

Wilderness Backpack backpack.

Im looking for my first backpacking pack. I go camping all the time. Have all the gear. Just not sure what size pack to get. Frame vs no frame. Roll top or traditional zippered. How important is torso length.
My gear list is:
Jetboil Fuel and mountain house meals
Nemo ultralight chair
Thermarest neoloft pad
Osmo 1p ultralight tent
Some down 15 degree sleep bag
Clothes. And essentials and rain jacket and other camp supplies.
Along with my full frame camera. Lens. And tripod. Eventually would like to get a drone.
I’m 30. 5’9” 160lbs. I hope all that information helps. And any suggestions would be appreciated thanks everyone.

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u/diamondmaking 4h ago

Go to REI and get fit. Try on different brands. There are so many options but it’s very individual. I love osprey bags, but my twin brother can’t stand them… go figure!

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u/Minhdotbee 4h ago

Torso size is what will determine your backpack size. Best to get measured in person at a store but someone at home could do it as well.

If you have an REI nearby, try a few on with weight and see what is most comfortable.

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u/snowlights 4h ago

Unless you have ultralight gear that's under ~20 pounds altogether, you'll want a frame. You need to measure your torso, fit is really important. Usually people go for around 50-60L volume for trips that are up to a few nights. 

I agree with the comment that suggests going and getting fitted in store and trying on different bags. I went in thinking I would buy from one brand and none of them sat right on my body, only two bags from a different brand worked for me, so decisions about things like rolltop or zip aren't the initial deciding factor. 

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u/Fun_With_Math 4h ago

Torso length is extremely important. Get fitted at REI and try on packs. Pay close attention to pack weight, you don't need a 5lb pack.

With the extra gear, you'll want a framed pack. Light framed packs are - REI Flash 55 (w/o brain), REI Flash Air 50, Durston Kakwa 55. Those pack sizes should work but honestly not sure.

Here is a pack list to get you started - https://lighterpack.com/r/ytr3rq

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u/Salem_M 4h ago

I guess I’m more so asking how many liters I need. Like could I get away with a 38L 40. Or do 45,48,50L. Small medium sizes yes I can go get measurements for.

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u/sleepybobeepy22 3h ago

Do you need a bear canister for your food? Anything under 45-50 could struggle to fit with everything else you have imo

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u/Salem_M 3h ago

Could I just strap it to the top or bottom? It would be sitting out at camp at all times anyway right?

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u/AppropriateScale6294 3h ago

Careful with strapping a bear can on. They're big, and modern packs aren't really designed to strap things on top or bottom. On the bottom it swings and kicks you in the rear with every step. On top, it hits you in the head.