Choosing the Perfect Overnight Backpack: A Wild Camper’s Guide

Having spent countless nights under the stars—whether during my time in the military, as a mountain leader, or simply hiking for fun with the family—I know firsthand that choosing the right overnight backpack is just as important as picking the perfect trail. Wild camping in the UK’s rugged landscapes brings a sense of freedom like no other, but it’s not without its challenges. The difference between a truly memorable adventure and a struggle often hinges on one key piece of gear: your backpack.

Size: Striking the Right Balance

For an overnight hike, I usually recommend a backpack size between 40-50 litres, depending on the season. If you’re planning a thru-hike, you can scale down to 30-40 litres, while winter adventures may require 50-60 litres to carry extra cold-weather gear. Striking the right balance is key—you need enough space for essentials without feeling like a walking warehouse! In the UK, your backpack needs to accommodate your sleeping bag, bivy or tent, spare clothing, food, cooking kit, water, toiletries, and first aid supplies. Trust me, the last thing you want is to wrestle with an overpacked bag or drag around one that’s unnecessarily bulky.

Fit: Comfort is King

When it comes to backpacks, fit is everything. A well-fitting pack should align with your torso length, height, and body shape. Don’t settle for the first one you see—try several until you find the perfect fit across your hips, shoulders, and back. Ladies, pay attention to adjustable sternum straps; they can make a world of difference. Most of the load should sit on your hips, so ensure the hip belt is snug and provides solid support to keep your hike pain-free.

Back Systems: Finding Your Match

Back systems vary widely, and there’s no universal “best.” From streamlined frames to fully padded or mesh-ventilated designs, choosing the right one comes down to preference and the conditions you’ll face. In the UK, where the weather often throws curveballs, ventilation is critical. Overheating while slogging up hills is no fun, so pick a system that keeps air flowing against your back.

Lightweight vs. Feature-Packed: What’s Your Style?

Here’s the eternal question: ultralight packs or those loaded with features? Personally, I lean toward ultralight designs that trim unnecessary extras. That said, some hikers prefer packs with more compartments, padded hip belts, and removable lids for added versatility. It all boils down to your style of hiking and the gear you carry. If you value comfort and expect unpredictable conditions, a slightly heavier pack with more features might be worth the trade-off.

Durability and Weatherproofing: Essentials for UK Hikes

With the UK’s unpredictable weather, a tough and water-resistant pack is non-negotiable. Opt for durable materials that can handle heavy rain and rugged terrain. A rain cover is a great addition for sudden downpours, and for extra peace of mind, consider using dry bags to keep your gear protected—especially when venturing into notoriously wet regions.

The Details: Small Features, Big Impact

Never underestimate the importance of small features. Hip belt pockets should be spacious enough for essentials like your phone or snacks, zippers should glide smoothly, and straps or drawcords should be easy to adjust on the move. These details might seem minor, but they can make or break your experience out on the trail.

Sustainability: Tread Lightly

As lovers of the outdoors, we have a responsibility to protect the wild spaces we cherish. Choose backpacks made with sustainable materials and produced by brands committed to reducing environmental impact. After all, leaving no trace starts with the gear we carry.

Features to look out for

Capacity: How Much Can It Hold?

Make sure your pack has enough room for all your essentials, but keep in mind that the stated capacity is often an estimate. If two numbers are listed, the first figure typically reflects the primary usable space, while the second accounts for the extended internal volume—though fully extending it can make the load less stable.

Weight: Keeping It Light

A helpful guideline is that the empty backpack should not exceed 10% of the total weight you’ll carry (including food and water, not just your gear). Lighter packs make long hikes far more manageable.

Back Length: Getting the Right Fit

A backpack must match the length of your torso to ensure comfort and proper weight distribution. The best way to verify this is by trying the pack on when it’s loaded.

Back System: Support for Heavy Loads

If you’re carrying a heavier load, opt for a backpack with a stiff frame that transfers weight effectively to your hips. Features like padded back panels or tensioned mesh add airflow and comfort, which can make a big difference on longer treks.

Hip Belt: Comfort and Stability

A well-fitted hip belt is crucial, as it helps distribute the weight evenly across your hips. For heavier packs, look for thick padding with some rigidity for added support. Curved hip belts tend to provide a better fit and stay in place more securely compared to straight ones.

Pockets and Compartments: Staying Organised

Pockets are invaluable for organising gear, especially small items you need quick access to throughout the day. Lower compartments are ideal for stashing sleeping bags or spare clothes, while mesh pockets work well for wet gear as they allow moisture to drain and dry. Spacious external pockets can even accommodate bulkier items like tents.

Lids and Closures: Keeping It Secure

A well-fitted lid should sit snugly over the pack, even when fully loaded. Some lids are extendable, offering flexibility for larger loads, while others stretch—though this has its limits. Detachable lids are particularly useful for securing items like foam pads carried above the pack body.

Straps: Versatility and Adjustability

External straps are incredibly handy for attaching items like trekking poles, sleeping pads, or extra gear. They also help compress the pack to keep it compact when carrying lighter loads. Straps should be easy to adjust without blocking access to pockets.

Rain Covers: Protection Against the Elements

While most backpacks are made from water-resistant materials, the seams can still let moisture in. Sensitive gear requires additional protection, particularly in wet conditions. Many packs come with integrated rain covers, which are a lifesaver when the weather turns.