Choosing the right backpack
Your backpack is like your home on the trail. You carry it all day, sometimes for weeks at a time. It's therefore essential to feel comfortable with it on your back . A well-chosen backpack provides comfort, while an ill-fitting one can quickly hinder your hike.
The two main families of hiking backpacks
In hiking backpacks, there are mainly two types of back panels .
Padded backpacks
The back of the bag is padded for added comfort against the back. However, this means less ventilation and these bags are generally a bit heavier . They remain highly regarded, though, for their supportive feel.
(Example of a padded backpack – shop photo)
Backpacks with a stretched mesh back panel
As their name suggests, the back of the bag is equipped with a stretched mesh panel that creates space between the bag and your back. This allows for excellent ventilation and often results in a lighter bag. It's a very comfortable option, especially in warm weather.
(Example of a backpack with a stretched mesh back panel – shop photo)
Adjustable bag or fixed bag?
In both of these categories, you will find adjustable or fixed backpacks.
We strongly advise choosing an adjustable backpack .
It adapts better to your body shape, improves carrying comfort and allows for better weight distribution.
👉 (Link: how to properly adjust your backpack)
Unisex bags, women's bags and men's bags
Most brands offer so-called unisex bags, which suit many body types.
Higher-end brands also offer bags specifically designed for:
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female morphology
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male morphology
These models allow for more precise adjustment of the back, straps and waist belt , and therefore better comfort over time.
(Example women's bag / men's bag – shop photo)
The key question: what volume should I choose?
This is often the most important question… and the most delicate.
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A bag that is too big encourages you to overfill it, with the risk of carrying 12 to 14 kg, or even more , throughout the journey.
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A bag that is too small can force you to be too minimalist and lose comfort.
Before choosing a volume, it is important to ask yourself a few simple questions:
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Will I be sleeping in a tent or in a hostel?
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Am I comfortable with minimalism?
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What kind of weather will I encounter: rain, cold, heat?
These elements allow us to move towards a suitable volume, without overdoing it.
The books we recommend for the Way of St. James
Today, on the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, in France as in Spain, the majority of pilgrims:
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sleep in a hostel
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walk between April and September
For the majority of pilgrims
If, like many, you are not very minimalist and like to have a little leeway (an extra pair of socks, for example), we recommend a backpack between 38L and 55L .
In our shop:
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The best-selling size for women is 38L
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For men, 48L
(Photos of backpacks from the shop)
For minimalist walkers
If you are comfortable with minimal equipment, a 30-38L backpack may be sufficient, provided you choose your equipment carefully.
(Photos of backpacks from the shop)
For the bivouac
If you are sleeping in a tent and carrying cooking equipment, a 38L bag will often be too small .
We therefore recommend a volume of at least 50L , without exceeding 75L , in order to limit the weight carried.
(Photos of backpacks from the shop)
In summary
The right backpack is one that:
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adapts to your body shape
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corresponds to your way of traveling
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allows you to walk comfortably, day after day
In our stores, we always take the time to help you try on, adjust and choose a bag that suits your journey .
(FAQ to be integrated)
