The Best Camping Backpacks for Weekend Trips
When I first started going on weekend camping trips, one of the biggest challenges I faced was finding the right backpack. I didn’t want something too bulky that would slow me down, but I also needed enough space to carry all my essentials, like a sleeping bag, food, and clothes. After several trips, I finally learned the ins and outs of choosing the best camping backpacks for weekend adventures. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a short outdoor adventure, the right backpack can make all the difference in your comfort and enjoyment. Let me share with you the key factors to consider and some of the best camping backpacks I’ve used for weekend trips.
1. The Importance of Size and Capacity
The first thing to consider when choosing a camping backpack is the size. For weekend trips, you want a backpack that’s large enough to hold your gear but not so large that it feels unwieldy. I’ve found that backpacks with a capacity of 40 to 60 liters are perfect for a weekend trip. This size allows me to carry everything I need, including a tent, sleeping bag, food, and extra clothes, without feeling overwhelmed by a huge pack.
On my first weekend camping trip, I mistakenly took a massive 70-liter backpack, thinking I would need all the space. I quickly realized that carrying such a large pack was uncomfortable and unnecessary for a short trip. I ended up packing more than I needed and ended up with extra weight I didn’t want. Now, I always stick to a 50-liter pack, which provides plenty of room for everything I need while keeping the weight manageable.
2. Weight and Comfort
When I’m choosing a backpack, weight is always a crucial factor. For weekend camping, I prefer a lightweight pack that won’t tire me out too quickly. Many backpacks designed for short trips are made from lightweight, durable materials, but it’s also essential to consider the weight of the pack itself when empty.
Comfort is equally important. I’ve had my fair share of uncomfortable backpacks, and trust me, you don’t want to be dealing with sore shoulders or an aching back while trying to enjoy the outdoors. When choosing a backpack, make sure it has padded straps, a hip belt, and a breathable back panel to help distribute the weight evenly. A well-fitting pack makes a huge difference, especially when you're hiking for long hours.
3. Features to Look for in Weekend Camping Backpacks
While size and weight are essential, the features of a backpack can also significantly impact your weekend camping experience. Over time, I’ve learned to appreciate certain features that make packing, organizing, and accessing my gear easier:
- Multiple Compartments: I love backpacks with several compartments to keep my gear organized. A main compartment for bulkier items like a sleeping bag and clothes, smaller side pockets for snacks and essentials, and a top lid pocket for a map or headlamp are a must for me.
- Hydration Reservoir Sleeve: Staying hydrated during outdoor adventures is crucial. I always look for a pack with a hydration reservoir sleeve or a pocket for a water bottle. This feature helps me keep my water close at hand without needing to stop and dig through my pack.
- Adjustable Straps: The more adjustable the straps, the better. Whether it's adjusting the torso length or the hip belt, I’ve found that being able to tweak the fit of the backpack helps me achieve maximum comfort. Everyone’s body is different, and an adjustable backpack ensures a customized fit.
- Rain Cover: Weather can be unpredictable, so having a rain cover is a huge plus. Many camping backpacks come with built-in rain covers that are stored in a small pocket at the bottom. This feature keeps your gear dry in case of a sudden downpour, and I’ve definitely appreciated having it on more than one occasion.
4. The Best Camping Backpacks for Weekend Trips
Now that we’ve covered the essentials of what to look for in a weekend camping backpack, here are a few of my favorite models that I’ve used and recommend:
- Osprey Exos 58: This is one of my go-to backpacks for weekend trips. With a 58-liter capacity, it's large enough to fit all my gear while still being light enough for comfort. The Exos 58 has a breathable mesh back panel and a comfortable hip belt, making it a great option for longer hikes. The Osprey Exos is known for its durability and excellent ventilation, perfect for warmer climates or strenuous hikes.
- Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10: This backpack offers a combination of lightweight design and durability. It has a 50-liter main compartment, with an additional 10 liters of expansion space. The Aircontact Lite is incredibly comfortable, with a well-padded hip belt and adjustable torso length. I’ve used this pack for several weekend trips, and its stability and fit never disappoint.
- Gregory Paragon 58: For weekend campers who like to carry a little extra gear, the Gregory Paragon 58 is a great option. It provides a comfortable, customizable fit and has plenty of space for your essentials. The Paragon features adjustable shoulder straps, a hip belt with multiple pockets, and a large, easy-to-access main compartment. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for comfort and organization.
- REI Co-op Flash 55: If you’re looking for a lighter, more minimalistic pack, the REI Co-op Flash 55 is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for ultralight campers who want a no-frills design that gets the job done. The Flash 55 is simple, but it’s durable, comfortable, and offers enough space for a weekend trip without being bulky.
5. Packing Tips for Weekend Trips
Once you've chosen the perfect backpack for your weekend camping trip, it's time to pack. I’ve learned that packing efficiently is key to ensuring that everything fits comfortably without overloading the backpack. Here are a few tips:
- Pack Heavy Items Low: When packing, I always put heavier items, like my tent and sleeping bag, near the bottom of the pack. This keeps the weight close to my center of gravity and helps with balance.
- Use Compression Sacks: To save space, I use compression sacks for my sleeping bag and clothing. These sacks help shrink the size of bulky items, making them easier to fit in the backpack.
- Keep Essentials Accessible: Items like a first-aid kit, map, snacks, and a headlamp should be packed in easily accessible pockets or the top compartment of the backpack. That way, I don’t have to dig through the entire pack when I need something quickly.
6. My Weekend Trip Experience
One of my most memorable weekend camping trips was to a national park near the mountains. I packed up my Osprey Exos 58 and headed out for a weekend of hiking and exploring. The backpack’s comfort and lightweight design made the long hike enjoyable, and the ample space allowed me to bring along everything I needed without feeling weighed down. I even had room for extra snacks and an extra layer of clothing, which came in handy when the temperatures dropped unexpectedly at night.
As I settled into my campsite, I couldn’t help but appreciate how much easier and more enjoyable my trip was thanks to the right backpack. It was spacious, comfortable, and organized—everything I needed to enjoy the great outdoors without any unnecessary hassle. This trip reinforced how important it is to choose the right camping backpack, especially for short weekend trips where efficiency and comfort are key.
