Backpack volume
Overview
Backpack volume is the stated carrying capacity of a pack, usually measured in liters, that estimates how much space is available for gear inside the main compartments and sometimes pockets.
Key points
- Typically reported by manufacturers in approximate liters or cubic inches.
- Measurement methods vary and may or may not include external pockets and extension collars.
- Appropriate volume depends on trip length, gear choices, and resupply intervals.
Details
In gear descriptions, backpack volume helps hikers compare the carrying capacity of different models. Manufacturers generally use standardized methods to estimate how many liters of space the main compartment and selected pockets provide, though exact inclusion of pockets and collars varies. A higher volume pack can accommodate bulkier gear or longer stretches between resupply, while a smaller volume pack may suit minimal or compact setups. Volume is a spatial measure and does not, by itself, indicate how much weight a pack is designed to carry comfortably.
Related topics
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