50L Backpacking Packs

50 liters: the self-sufficient trekking volume

Fifty liters is the capacity that makes self-sufficiency accessible: enough to carry a tent, a sleeping bag, a sleeping pad, cookware and food for several days. It's the go-to volume once you leave mountain huts behind to sleep outdoors, without tipping into the extra-large sizes reserved for long expeditions. A proper adventure backpack, still reasonable to carry.

What can you fit in a 50L?

The 50-liter backpack swallows up the essentials of a bivouac: shelter, sleeping gear, stove, warm clothing and food. For comparison, a 40L backpack stays lighter for short outings, while 70L and above is the way to go for longer self-sufficient trips or winter conditions. To work out which volume suits you, browse all our hiking and trekking backpacks.

Comfort and adjustable carrying system

Once loaded to 50 liters, how the backpack carries becomes crucial. A padded hip belt takes most of the weight, an adjustable back system fits your back length, and comfortable shoulder straps prevent pressure points. A ventilated back panel keeps sweating to a minimum, and accessible pockets — sometimes including a removable pocket that doubles as a summit pack — keep the essentials within easy reach. Properly adjusted, a fully loaded 50L carries surprisingly well.

Weight, durability and rain protection

A lightweight backpack made from high-tenacity nylon or polyester fabric keeps the overall weight down without sacrificing toughness. Compression straps stabilize the load, and a waterproof rain cover protects your tent and sleeping bag from the rain — invaluable when you're sleeping outdoors. Every gram saved on the backpack is energy saved for the walk.

Who is it for?

The 50L is suited to walkers getting into bivouacking and multi-day self-sufficient treks. It's often the best first big backpack: enough capacity to get you going, light enough not to put you off. A trusty companion for heading far afield with a free mind. The right 50L depends on the length and weight of your treks; some models offer extendable volume via a collar extension, handy when your gear varies from one trip to the next.