Backpacks
Bergans' story began in 1908 when Ole F. Bergan invented the carrier tit.
His desire to combine function, comfort and quality is still alive today as we develop innovative backpacks and other hiking gear over 100 years later. Our range includes bags in all sizes for all purposes, from extreme mountain sports to practical everyday wear. We only use high-quality materials and develop our products with first-class functionality and wearing comfort.
How to Choose the Right Backpack
Choosing the right backpack depends on the length of your trip, the amount of gear you need to carry, and the type of activity. Some backpacks are designed for short day hikes, while others provide larger carrying capacity and advanced support for multi-day adventures.
Daypacks – Lightweight and Versatile
Daypacks are compact backpacks designed for shorter outings and everyday activities. They typically provide enough space for water, food, and essential gear without adding unnecessary weight.
Best for: day hikes, commuting, travel, and everyday outdoor use.
Hiking Backpacks – Balanced for Day Trips
Hiking backpacks offer a balance between capacity and comfort. They include features such as adjustable straps, hydration compatibility, and multiple compartments to keep equipment organized during longer day hikes.
Best for: longer hikes, outdoor activities, and carrying extra clothing or gear.
Trekking Backpacks – Maximum Capacity and Support
Trekking backpacks are designed for multi-day trips and heavier loads. These packs include supportive hip belts, adjustable carrying systems, and durable materials that help distribute weight comfortably over longer distances.
Best for: backpacking trips, expeditions, and extended outdoor adventures.
Fit, Carrying System and Functional Details
A well-designed carrying system is essential for comfort during longer hikes. Adjustable shoulder straps, supportive hip belts, and ergonomic back panels help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain during extended use.
Look for features such as adjustable back length, ventilation panels, and practical compartments that make it easier to organize and access your gear. Attachment points for equipment like trekking poles can also be useful for technical outdoor activities.
Durable fabrics and reinforced construction ensure the backpack performs reliably across different terrains and weather conditions.
Backpack Size Guide – What Capacity Do You Need?
Backpack capacity is usually measured in liters and indicates how much gear the pack can hold. Choosing the right size depends on the length of your trip, the equipment you need to carry, and how much comfort and support you require.
10–20L Backpacks – Everyday and Short Outings
Backpacks in this size range are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for short walks, commuting, or carrying daily essentials.
Best for: everyday use, short outings, light gear.
20–30L Backpacks – Day Hiking
Backpacks between 20 and 30 liters provide enough space for water, extra clothing, food, and basic equipment for a full day outdoors.
Best for: day hikes, travel, and outdoor activities.
30–50L Backpacks – Overnight Trips
Backpacks in this range offer more storage for clothing, sleeping gear, and food needed for overnight trips. They often include stronger carrying systems and additional compartments.
Best for: overnight hikes, short trekking trips.
50L+ Backpacks – Multi-Day Adventures
Large trekking backpacks are designed for extended trips where you need to carry camping equipment, food, and additional clothing. These packs focus on support, stability, and efficient weight distribution.
Best for: multi-day trekking, expeditions, and long-distance hiking.
A Long Tradition of Backpack Development
Bergans has been developing backpacks for outdoor use for more than a century. Early innovations in carrying systems helped improve how weight is distributed on the body, making it easier to carry equipment comfortably over longer distances.
Today, Bergans continues to refine backpack design with a focus on ergonomics, durability, and functionality. This long experience in outdoor equipment development still influences how modern Bergans backpacks are built.
Frequently Asked Questions About Backpacks
What size backpack do I need for hiking?
The right size depends on the length of your trip. Day hikes typically require a pack between 15–30 liters, while multi-day trekking trips often require larger backpacks with capacities of 40 liters or more.
What is the difference between a daypack and a trekking backpack?
Daypacks are smaller and designed for short trips, while trekking backpacks are larger and built to carry heavier loads over longer distances.
How should a backpack fit?
A backpack should sit comfortably on your hips with the hip belt carrying most of the weight. Shoulder straps should stabilize the pack without carrying the full load.
Are hiking backpacks waterproof?
Most hiking backpacks are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. Many models include rain covers or water-repellent fabrics to protect gear during wet conditions.
What features are important in a hiking backpack?
Key features include ergonomic carrying systems, adjustable back length, ventilation panels, hydration compatibility, and practical pockets for organizing gear.