How to Choose a Backpack or Fanny Pack

A backpack (or fanny pack) is one of those pieces of gear you only really appreciate out in the field—either you don’t even notice it all day, or it starts to annoy you with every step.

We offer lightweight sports backpacks for day trips, hiking backpacks with better stability, and waist packs for running and biking, where you can keep your drinks and small items right at your fingertips.

Quick selection based on what you're working on

1) I want a small backpack for a trip, a day in the city, or a quick outing

✔ Recommendation: 20 L (the most versatile small capacity)

2) I want a versatile backpack for a day trip (snacks, a sweatshirt, and a few extra items)

✔ Recommendation: 35 L (best size-to-practicality ratio)

3) I want a weekend getaway / some light hiking

✔ Recommendation: 40–50 L, ideally with better stability on the body

4) I want longer hikes and to carry more gear (and I want it to be comfortable to carry, even with the extra weight)

✔ Recommendation: 60 L + sturdier construction (back panel, stability, straps)

ACRA Adventure 60 L Backpack BA60-MO

5) I want to have a drink on hand while running / biking / rollerblading

✔ Recommendation: waist bag with a water bottle (fast, compact, practical)

Key Parameters

1) Capacity (liters)

20 L – short trips, city, sports, “travel light”
35 l – all-day trips, versatile for most activities
40–50 l – weekend trips, light hiking
60 l – longer hikes, more gear, heavier load

2) Back system and ventilation

If you don’t want a “wet back” after an hour, focus on:

reinforced back panel + ventilation (better comfort)
for larger backpacks, also a sturdier construction/frame for stability

3) Body stabilization: chest and hip belts

This is a detail that often determines whether the backpack “fits” or shifts around:

chest strap = the backpack doesn’t slip off your shoulders
hip belt = relieves pressure on the shoulders (especially with larger volumes or heavier loads)

4) Pockets, Compartments, and Access

The practical minimum for normal use:

2 main compartments + side pockets
front pocket for small items
hiking backpacks also feature straps for gear (poles, helmet, etc.)

Quick Tips Before You Buy

✔ If you're torn between two sizes, the general rule is: for a trip, it's better to have a little extra space than to have to strap things to the outside.

✔ If you’re taking the backpack on a longer trip, choose a model with chest and hip straps—you’ll notice the difference within the first 10 minutes.

✔ Worried about rain? The quickest and most reliable solution is a backpack rain cover, which will protect the contents even during a sudden shower.

✔ Bonus tip: Put small items you want to keep close at hand (cell phone, ID, keys) in the front pocket or right at the top of the backpack—you’ll appreciate this every time you stop (and you won’t have to rummage around at the bottom).