Waterproofing

Packs are water-resistant, not waterproof, so extra precautions are required. The best bet is to use a waterproof pack liner or dry bags to keep gear dry. Some packs have a rain cover, but on their own these are generally insufficient to protect the gear inside.

Capacity

These packs have capacities between 50 to 80 litres. As other tramping gear has become lighter and more compressible, it’s possible to use 50–65l packs for most multi-day trips. Packs will be either single or double compartment, with the lower compartment usually for a sleeping bag. Numerous pockets provide ample storage.

Hip belt

A padded hip belt cups the top of the hips so that around 80 per cent of the pack’s weight is supported by the hip bones. The belt can be easily tightened or loosened, and it should pivot so the pack moves with the body – this aids stability over uneven terrain and reduces fatigue when heavy loads are carried.

External storage

Compression straps, gear loops, stash pockets and daisy chains allow tents, walking poles, ice tools, clothing and other equipment to be carried outside the pack.

Lids

Some pack lids are detachable and can be used as a day-pack for side trips to a summit or excursions from a hut. This allows users to fine-tune pack weight: leave the main pack at home if it won’t be needed, or carry it and use the lid on short side trips. Some lids are also extendable to increase the overall capacity of a pack.

Harness 

The harness keeps the pack stable and – when fitted correctly – transfers weight onto your hips. It is usually adjustable to suit a user’s back length. A suspended ‘trampoline’ mesh or ventilated foam back panel promotes airflow and provides back support. 

Fabric

Most packs are made from nylon, a material that is lightweight, strong and water-resistant. Canvas packs are heavier but also tougher and longer-lasting. Extra-durable fabrics are used in high-wear areas like the pack’s base. A PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) coating will be applied to increase water-resistance.

Pack access

Top access is standard, but it’s also common to have front zippered access, making it easier to find items. This is convenient, but tends to add weight and can compromise water resistance.

Lowe Alpine Cerro Torre 65:85/ND60:80 $699.95

This is a large load-carrying pack for extended trips over demanding terrain. It features zippered front and lower entry, an extendable, removable lid (converts to a 15l daypack), zipped side pockets, pole and ice axe attachments and rain cover, and is hydration compatible. Fabric TriShield, 500D nylon base Capacity 65+20l (m), 60+20l (w) Weight 2880g (m), 2800g (w). www.outfitters.net.nz

Aarn Featherlite Freedom Pro‭ $‬399

A single-compartment Te Araroa Trail thru-hiker’s favourite made with Dyneema fabric. It’s suitable for fast and light trips and features a Bio-Fit shoulder harness, roll-top closure, removable waterproof Dri-liner, stretch front and side pockets, 12 accessory attachment points, and it’s hydration compatible. Optional Balance Pockets available. Fabric Dyneema Capacity 50l Weight 1260g. www.furtherfaster.co.nz

The North Face Griffin 75 $650

The Griffin is designed for comfort during long backcountry missions. It features The North Face’s Dyno Carry System with self-equalising, on-the-move adjustable load lifters and a swivelling hipbelt, detachable lid/day pack, wraparound J-zip, hydration sleeve, lash points and two tool keepers. Fabric 210D IronLite nylon, 420D IronLite nylon Capacity 75l Weight 2600g. www.thenorthface.co.nz

Lowe Alpine Manaslu 55:70L/ND50:65‭ $‬599.95

The VT Plus harness is designed for carry-ing heavy loads on long-distance trips and across variable terrain. It features a forward-pull hip belt, extendable lid, daisy chain, front/lower entry, front stash pocket, mesh side pockets, pole and ice axe attachments. Fabric Mini ripstop, 500D nylon base Capacity 55+15l (m), 50+15l (w) Weight 2340g (m), 2150g (w). www.outfitters.net.nz 

Salewa Alptrek 50+10L $379.90

A women’s-specific thru-hiking and long-distance pack using Salewa’s Dry Back custom carry system with an adjustable back length and anatomically shaped shoulder straps and hip belt. There’s a removable lid, front stash pocket, daisy chain, ice axe and pole attachments, rope fastener, rain cover and it’s hydration compatible. Fabric 100Dx280D nylon twill, 210D nylon honeycomb Capacity 50+10l Weight 1765g. www.bobo.co.nz

Lowe Alpine AirZone Trek 45:55 $449.95

Here’s a pack designed for hut-to-hut trips. It’s fitted with the award-winning AirZone+ ventilated carry system and features zipped front entry, stretch mesh side pockets, compression straps, pole and ice axe attachments, hip belt pockets and rain cover. Fabric 210D ripstop nylon with HydroShield Capacity 45+10l Weight 1630g. www.outfitters.net.nz

Lowe Alpine Sirac 50 $299.95

This pack is designed for heavy loads and has Lowe Alpine’s flexible and adjustable AirContour X carry system. Features include an elastic front stash pocket, side stretch pockets, sleeping bag compartment, rain cover, hip belt pockets, walking pole attachments, lash points. Fabric 50% recycled 420D Dobby and 100% recycled 600D PW/HydroShield Capacity 50+10l Weight 1780g (m/w). www.outfitters.net.nz

Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40–60 $299

An all-rounder with a volume range from long weekends to week-long trips. Features include a Y-flex suspension system, bucket lid with stash pocket, stretch pockets on the shoulder straps and side of pack, hip belt pockets, U-shaped top access zipper. Fabric 100D nylon-poly ripstop, 420D nylon Oxford Capacity 42–60l Weight 1190g. www.furtherfaster.co.nz

Lowe Alpine Airzone Camino Trek 40:50 $399.95

The Camino Trek has a ventilated and breathable back and suits shorter multi-day trips. It features pole attachments, side compression straps, forward-pull hip belt, ice axe loop, SpiderPlate bungee system and a zipped front panel. Fabric 210D 6.6 mini ripstop nylon with HydroShield Capacity 40+10l Weight 1530g. www.outfitters.net.nz