· top picks · 8 min read
The Best 50L Backpacks for Long-Haul Hiking and Travel
Our 50L backpack roundup examines the top outdoor packs, comparing their features, durability, and comfort levels to help you find the perfect backpack for your adventures.
A 50-liter backpack combines generous capacity with comfortable carrying design, making it ideal for extended hikes, camping trips, and weekend getaways. Our carefully selected recommendations balance durability, functionality, and value to help you find the perfect pack for your adventures.
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Reviews
PolarPro Boreal 50L Camera Backpack
The PolarPro Boreal backpack is a hefty contender for professional cinematographers, with its roomy 50L capacity and sturdy 600D polyester construction. The roll-top design adds a versatile 15L of extra storage, while the thick padding and thoughtful organization keep your gear safe during transport. Compatible with PolarPro packing cubes, this water-resistant backpack pulls out all the stops for a top-heavy camera loadout.
JCDOBEST Expandable Backpack
This travel backpack combines generous 50L capacity with an expandable design that allows you to double your packing space to 45L by simply unzipping the top. The extra-large 20-inch exterior dimensions accommodate both overhead and under-seat storage, making it suitable for weekend getaways or longer trips. Built for comfort with adjustable shoulder straps, air-mesh back panel, and sturdy handles, this versatile pack features a convenient USB charging port for your devices. The durable construction includes a 180-degree TSA zipper for quick security checks, while the hand-wash-only cleaning requirement ensures your investment remains in top condition.
Kong Work PVC 50L Bag
The Kong Work PVC bag brings a practical approach to daily carrying with its generous 50-liter capacity. The standout feature is its comfort-enhancing padded shoulder straps that adjust to find your perfect carry position.
Maelstrom 50L Travel Backpack
This travel backpack combines generous 40-50L capacity with thoughtful organization, featuring three main compartments and multiple pockets for keeping your gear sorted. The expandable design and durable nylon construction handle everything from weekend getaways to longer trips, while the ergonomic S-shaped shoulder straps and padded handles make carrying comfortable despite the weight. The built-in shoe bag and separate toiletry compartment add practical touches that make packing and unpacking a breeze.
Maelstrom 50L Hiking Backpack
The Maelstrom backpack combines a roomy 50L capacity with thoughtful features like multiple pockets and water-resistant construction. Its padded back and adjustable straps make it comfortable for long hikes, while practical touches include trekking pole holders and a water pipe port. The durable nylon build and reflective safety details make it a reliable choice for both men and women heading out on adventures.
Esup 50L Hiking Backpack with Rain Cover
The adjustable straps make it versatile for different loads and can secure extra items like sleeping bags and mats. It’s got plenty of pockets for organization, from the main 50L compartment to the front pockets and mesh sides. The rain cover keeps everything dry in wet conditions.
Mountain Warehouse Voyager 50L Backpack
At 50 litres, this durable backpack handles both short city trips and longer beach vacations with equal grace. The padded shoulder straps and quiet-rolling wheels make it comfortable for daily use, while the generous number of pockets keeps your essentials organized and secure. Built to last in robust PU-coated polyester, it’s a practical addition to any traveler’s wardrobe.
Granite Gear Perimeter 50 Backpack
The Granite Gear Perimeter 50 proves why it took home Outside Magazine’s “Gear of the Year” award. Built for long treks, this ultra-light 50L pack pairs a tough Robic nylon construction with a spring steel frame that flexes to your body. The game-changing feature? Its adjustable torso length ranges from 18-24 inches, plus broad shoulder straps that clip for custom width. While one reviewer noted the side pockets could be roomier, the main 3,051-cubic-inch pack shines with its roll-top closure, generous 18-42 inch hipbelt, and smart storage design that keeps you from rooting through gear.
FR Fashion Co. 50L Men’s Tactical Backpack
The Carry-All Military Tactical Backpack by FR Fashion Co. combines sturdy 600D waterproof fabric with durable MOLLE webbing to create a practical carrier for daily use or outdoor adventures. Its generous 50L capacity is paired with multiple pockets to keep your gear organized and accessible.
Maelstrom 40-50L Laptop Backpack
This unisex backpack combines generous 40 to 50-liter capacity with thoughtful organization, featuring three main compartments and thirteen pockets. The padded S-shaped back and dual handles make it comfortable for daily use or travel, while the waterproof nylon construction and built-in shoe bag protect both your gear and your footwear. Perfect for the upcoming holiday season, this durable backpack will handle everything from daily commutes to weekend getaways.
Cvlife Outdoor 50L Military Rucksack
Made for serious outdoor adventures, this backpack blends tough military-grade durability with practical features like multiple pockets and adjustable straps. The water-resistant nylon construction can handle all sorts of weather, while the generous 50L capacity makes it perfect for camping, hiking, or just carrying everything you need for the day.
Buyer’s Guide
A 50-liter backpack represents a versatile compromise between large capacity and manageable weight, making it suitable for extended trips, weekend getaways, or everyday use. Understanding the key features and considerations will help you select the right backpack for your needs.
Capacity and Organization
50 liters offer ample storage for clothing, gear, and essentials. Choose a backpack with well-organized compartments that include dedicated spaces for laptop, hydration bladder, and dirty laundry. The design should prioritize accessibility, with quick-release attachment points for gear and ample mesh pockets for ventilation and organization.
Fit and Comfort
Backpack fit is crucial for long-term comfort. The 50-liter category typically supports torso lengths between 19-23 inches (48-58 cm). Adjustable hip belts and shoulder straps distribute weight effectively, while padded backs and shoulder straps prevent hot spots during extended wear. Consider backpacks with multiple waist sizes and torso length options for the best fit.
Durability and Construction
Invest in a backpack with durable materials like reinforced polyester or nylon, particularly in high-wear areas such as the back panel, shoulder straps, and hip belt. Look for backpacks with welded seams and tear-resistant fabrics to prevent leaks and damage. Quality zippers and hardware ensure longevity and reliable performance on your adventures.
Additional Features
Consider backpacks with external compression straps to secure the load and maintain shape, rain covers for protection, and reflective elements for visibility. Some models include built-in ice axe loops, climbing harness attachment points, or dedicated hydration sleeve compatibility. These features enhance functionality for specific activities while maintaining versatility for general use.
FAQ
What is the volume of a 50L backpack?
A 50-liter backpack has a capacity of 50 liters, which is equivalent to approximately 13 gallons or 48.8 UK pints. This spacious volume allows for the storage of a substantial amount of gear and supplies.
While 50 liters is quite generous, it’s important to note that not all of this capacity is readily accessible. Some backpacks reserve space for the frame and structure, reducing the usable volume slightly.
How do you measure 50L backpack capacity?
Backpack manufacturers typically measure capacity by multiplying the maximum length, width, and height in centimeters and converting the result to liters. For example, a backpack measuring 70cm x 40cm x 25cm would have a claimed capacity of 70 x 40 x 25 = 70,000 cubic centimeters, or 70 liters.
It’s important to verify the actual usable capacity, as advertised volumes can sometimes include non-accessible or internal spaces. Many manufacturers now provide more accurate specifications for the fully accessible storage volume.
What types of gear fit in a 50L backpack?
Most 50L backpacks have ample space for clothing, sleeping bags, tents, and other camping equipment. The main compartment easily accommodates two to three changes of clothes, shoes, and everyday gear.
Some backpacks feature additional pockets and compartments specifically designed for water bottles, hydration systems, and technical gear. However, the primary storage area remains versatile enough for a wide range of items.
How much weight can a 50L backpack carry?
The maximum weight a 50L backpack can carry depends on several factors, including the backpack’s material, construction quality, and the distribution of weight. Lightweight backpacks with durable fabrics and well-padded shoulder and hip straps can handle 40-60 pounds.
For extended backpacking trips or heavy loads, look for backpacks with reinforced frames, multiple attachment points, and padded frames. These features help distribute weight effectively and maintain backpack stability with heavy loads.
What are the key features of a good 50L backpack?
A quality 50L backpack features a sturdy frame, padded back panel, and well-fitting harness system. Look for adjustable shoulder straps, hip belt, and chest strap to ensure proper load distribution and comfort during long wearing periods.
Additional features that enhance functionality include multiple external and internal pockets, rain cover compatibility, and built-in ice axe/glass storage. The backpack’s suspension system and weight distribution are crucial for long-term comfort and performance.
How should you maintain a 50L backpack?
Proper maintenance extends the life of your backpack and ensures continued performance. Regularly clean and air out the backpack, checking for any signs of wear or damage, especially around the stitching and adjustable straps.
When not in use, store the backpack in a cool, dry place and use the included rain cover if available. This protects the backpack from moisture and debris, maintaining its structural integrity and extending its useful lifespan.
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