How Much Should Your Backpack Weigh When You’re Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

When you decide to go on a backpacking trip, it is important to consider the weight of your backpack. Your backpack should be light enough that it won’t cause you pain or injury as you walk, and it should be able to hold all of the items that you need for your trip. It is not just about what goes in your backpack, but also how much it weighs.

The ideal weight of a backpack depends on several factors, including the type of trip you are going on, the duration of your trip, and the items that you need to bring. For example, if you are going on an overnight hike, then your pack should weigh no more than 10-15% of your body weight. This will help to ensure that you have enough energy and strength to make it through the entire trip.

For longer trips or ones with more equipment, such as backpacking through Europe or spending multiple days in the wilderness, a heavier pack may be necessary. The general rule is to keep your pack’s weight at 25-30% of your body weight. A heavier pack can still be comfortable if it is packed properly and has well-designed straps.

In addition to considering total weight, it is important to consider how items are distributed within the bag. A good way to ensure a balanced load is by packing heavy items like food and cooking supplies at the bottom of your pack and lighter items like clothing at the top. This will help make sure that everything is evenly distributed so that there isn’t too much strain on one side.

Ultimately, when backpacking, it is important to find a balance between having everything that you need for your trip without overpacking or carrying too much weight in order to avoid injury or fatigue during your travels.

Conclusion:

How much should your backpack weigh when backpacking? It depends on several factors including type of trip, duration and items needed.

Generally speaking, for overnight trips aim for 10-15% body weight while longer trips should be around 25-30%. Additionally, packing heavy items low in the bag and light items high can help balance out the load.