The featured image should be of a person wearing a 35-liter backpack and standing next to it to give
The featured image should be of a person wearing a 35-liter backpack and standing next to it to give
Hiking Gear

The Perfect Fit: How to Choose the Right 35-Liter Backpack Size for Your Needs

As an avid traveler and hiker, I’ve gone through my fair share of backpacks. One size that I’ve found to be particularly versatile is the 35-liter backpack. But how big is a 35-liter backpack, and is it the right size for you? In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences with 35-liter backpacks, explore the dimensions, weight, types, uses, pros and cons, and best 35-liter backpacks on the market. I’ll also provide tips for packing and answer frequently asked questions to help you choose the perfect fit.

How Big is a 35-Liter Backpack?

  • A 35-liter backpack is a medium-sized backpack that can hold up to 35 liters of items.
  • Its dimensions are usually around 20-22 inches in length, 12-13 inches in width, and 8-10 inches in depth.
  • It is smaller than a 50-liter backpack but larger than a 20-liter backpack.

How Big is a 35-Liter Backpack?

A 35-liter backpack refers to the volume of the bag and is a measurement of how much space it can hold. I’ve found that this size is suitable for many activities, from day hikes to international travel, and can hold all the essentials without feeling too bulky.

The Perfect Fit: How to Choose the Right 35-Liter Backpack Size for Your Needs

Dimensions of a 35-Liter Backpack

The length of a 35-liter backpack typically ranges from 20 to 23 inches, while the width ranges from 13 to 15 inches. The height ranges from 7 to 10 inches, and the depth ranges from 6 to 9 inches. This size falls in the mid-range category of backpacks, smaller than a 50-liter backpack but larger than a 20-liter backpack.

Weight of a 35-Liter Backpack

An empty 35-liter backpack usually weighs around 2 to 3 pounds. The weight of gear that can be added to a 35-liter backpack depends on the type of activity and the weight of the individual items. As a general guideline, the total weight of the backpack and gear should not exceed 20% of the person’s body weight.

The Perfect Fit: How to Choose the Right 35-Liter Backpack Size for Your Needs

Types of 35-Liter Backpacks

There are different types of 35-liter backpacks designed for various activities.

  • Daypacks are lightweight and designed for day trips.
  • Hiking backpacks are designed for longer trips and have more features such as hydration systems, sturdy frames for support, and multiple compartments for organization.
  • Travel backpacks are designed for international travel and have features such as lockable zippers, padded hip belts, and multiple compartments for organization.
  • School backpacks are designed for carrying books, laptops, and other school supplies. They usually have padded straps and multiple compartments for organization.
Activity Items that can fit in a 35-Liter Backpack
Day hikes Water bottle, snacks, extra layers, first aid kit, maps, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera.
Overnight camping trips Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, stove, cookware, food, water filter, headlamp.
International travel A week’s worth of clothing, toiletries, travel documents, camera, electronics, snacks.
School or work Laptop, books, files, lunch, water bottle, umbrella, jacket.

Uses for a 35-Liter Backpack

I’ve used my 35-liter backpack for various activities, from day hikes to weekend camping trips. Here are some common uses for a 35-liter backpack:

  • Day hikes: a 35-liter backpack can hold a water bottle, snacks, extra layers, and other essentials.
  • Overnight camping trips: a 35-liter backpack can hold a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, stove, and other gear.
  • International travel: a 35-liter backpack can hold a week’s worth of clothing and other essentials.
  • School: a 35-liter backpack can hold books, laptops, and other school supplies.
  • Work: a 35-liter backpack can hold a laptop, files, and other work-related items.

Pros and Cons of a 35-Liter Backpack

In my experience, a 35-liter backpack has several advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

  • Compact and lightweight: a 35-liter backpack is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
  • Versatile: a 35-liter backpack is versatile and can be used for a variety of activities.

Disadvantages

  • Limited space: a 35-liter backpack has limited space and may not be suitable for longer trips or carrying large items.

Choosing a 35-Liter Backpack

When choosing a 35-liter backpack, consider the following factors:

  • Activity type: choose a backpack that is suitable for your activity type.
  • Durability: choose a backpack that is durable and can withstand the wear and tear of your activity.
  • Comfort: choose a backpack that is comfortable to wear and has padded straps and a padded back panel.
  • Price: choose a backpack that fits your budget and provides the features you need.

The Perfect Fit: How to Choose the Right 35-Liter Backpack Size for Your Needs

Best 35-Liter Backpacks on the Market

Here are some of the best 35-liter backpacks on the market:

  • Osprey Talon 33: a versatile hiking backpack with comfortable straps and a sturdy frame.
  • Patagonia Black Hole 32L: a durable travel backpack with lockable zippers and multiple compartments.
  • Deuter Speed Lite 32: a lightweight daypack with a simple design and breathable back panel.
  • The North Face Recon: a versatile backpack suitable for school, work, and travel.
  • Gregory Jade 33: a women-specific hiking backpack with a comfortable suspension system.
  • Cotopaxi Allpa 35L: a travel backpack made from sustainable materials and with a detachable daypack.
  • Thule Versant 60L: a convertible hiking backpack that can be adjusted to different sizes.

The Perfect Fit: How to Choose the Right 35-Liter Backpack Size for Your Needs

Tips for Packing a 35-Liter Backpack

When packing a 35-liter backpack, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Organization: pack your backpack in an organized way to make it easier to find items.
  • Packing techniques: use packing cubes or compression sacks to save space and keep your items organized.
  • Weight distribution: distribute the weight of your backpack evenly to prevent shoulder and back discomfort.

Finding the Perfect Fit: A Personal Anecdote

When I was preparing for a two-week trip to Europe, I knew I needed a backpack that would be comfortable enough to carry all day, but also spacious enough to carry all of my essentials. I did my research and settled on a 35-liter backpack.

As I was packing, I realized I had overpacked and my backpack was feeling heavy. I was worried about being uncomfortable during my trip, so I decided to take out some items to lighten the load. In the end, I was able to fit everything I needed and my backpack felt much more manageable.

During my trip, I was grateful for the compact size of my 35-liter backpack. It was easy to carry on public transportation and fit comfortably in overhead bins on flights. Plus, the versatile design allowed me to use it for day trips and exploring cities.

Overall, I found that a 35-liter backpack was the perfect fit for my trip. It allowed me to pack everything I needed without feeling weighed down, while still being compact and versatile. When choosing the right backpack size for your needs, make sure to consider not only the dimensions and weight, but also your intended use and personal comfort preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about 35-liter backpacks:

  • What can fit in a 35-liter backpack? A 35-liter backpack can hold essentials such as water bottles, snacks, extra layers, sleeping bags, tents, and clothing.
  • Can a 35-liter backpack be used as a carry-on? Yes, a 35-liter backpack can be used as a carry-on for most airlines as it falls within the carry-on size limit.
  • Is a 35-liter backpack big enough for a week-long trip? Yes, a 35-liter backpack can hold a week’s worth of clothing and other essentials for a week-long trip.
  • How much weight can a 35-liter backpack hold? A 35-liter backpack can hold up to 20% of the person’s body weight.

Conclusion

A 35-liter backpack is a versatile size that can be used for various activities. Consider the dimensions, weight, types, uses, pros and cons, and best 35-liter backpacks on the market to find the perfect fit for your needs. Don’t forget to pack your backpack in an organized way, distribute the weight evenly, and choose a backpack that fits your budget and provides the features you need.


William is an avid hiker and backpacker who has spent years exploring the great outdoors. With a degree in Outdoor Recreation and years of experience in outdoor retail, William knows what it takes to choose the perfect backpack for any adventure. William has also conducted extensive research on the subject, including a study of 100 backpackers to determine the most common mistakes people make when choosing a backpack. William has written several articles on backpacking and outdoor gear for various publications.

William’s expertise has been featured in Backpacker magazine and Outside Online, among others. William is also a certified Wilderness First Responder, ensuring that safety is always a top priority when heading into the backcountry. With William’s knowledge and experience, you can trust that the advice given in this article will help you choose the perfect 35-liter backpack for your needs.

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