Hiking & Mountaineering Backpacks
Frequently asked questions
Useful information to help you choose products and equipment with greater confidence.
How do I choose a backpack's capacity in litres
A backpack's capacity is measured in litres and chosen according to the length of the outing and the gear to carry. As a guide:
- 15-30 L: day hikes, mountain running, light outings.
- 30-50 L: one- or two-day treks, day mountaineering.
- 50-70 L: multi-day treks with tent and sleeping bag.
- 70 L and over: expeditions and long self-sufficient hikes.
Better not to oversize: too big a pack tends to get filled and heavy. The exact litreage of each model is shown in the product page.
How do I correctly adjust a trekking backpack
A well-adjusted pack carries the weight on the hips, not the shoulders. The correct sequence:
- Loosen all straps and put the pack on.
- Close and tighten the hip belt above the pelvis: this is where most of the weight should rest.
- Adjust the shoulder straps, which should sit close without bearing the load.
- Tighten the load-lifter straps at the top and the sternum strap to stabilise.
Many packs have a height-adjustable back system to fit torso length: a good fit reduces fatigue and prevents back pain.
What is the difference between a trekking and a mountaineering backpack
The two types have different builds:
- Trekking pack: more structured and padded, with a ventilated back, substantial hip belt and many pockets to organise a multi-day load.
- Mountaineering pack: more minimal and tapered, close to the body so as not to unbalance on a wall, with attachments for ice axe, crampons and rope, and smooth surfaces that don't snag.
Trekking favours comfort and capacity; mountaineering favours lightness and freedom of movement. The choice depends on the main activity.
What is the capacity of the Ferrino XMT 60+10, and how is the equipment accessed?
The Ferrino XMT has a capacity of 60 litres, expandable by a further 10 litres. The large front access allows equipment to be reached and organised quickly, a practical solution for multi-day treks, traverses and expeditions.
Is the Ferrino XMT 40+5 suitable for mountaineering, and what technical features does it include?
Yes. The Ferrino XMT 40+5 is a 40+5-liter technical backpack designed for mountaineering, hiking, and advanced outdoor activities. It features abrasion- and tear-resistant 305 P Ripstop HP Cordura®, an ergonomic ventilated Hollow Back System, front access, a removable lid and hip belt, ice axe and ski holders, a rope pocket, compression straps, and hydration-system compatibility. It weighs 0.95 kg in its minimum configuration and up to 1.65 kg with all components.
Is the Ferrino Agile 35 backpack suitable for fast hiking and lightweight multi-day trips?
Yes. The Ferrino Agile 35 is a 35-litre ultralight trekking backpack weighing 0.960 kg, designed for alpine approaches, fast hiking and minimalist multi-day trips. It features a ventilated Hollow Back System, pole and ice axe holders, multiple mesh pockets and compatibility with H2 bag hydration systems and external helmet holders.
Is the Ferrino Zephyr 12 backpack suitable for day hikes?
Yes, the Ferrino Zephyr 12 is a 12-litre technical backpack designed for day hikes and trekking. It weighs 810 g, promotes back ventilation with the Dry Net System, and includes a rain cover and compatibility with the H2 Bag hydration system.
Is the Ferrino Zephyr 27+3 suitable for day hiking, and what features does it include?
Yes. The Ferrino Zephyr 27+3 is designed for day hikes and short mountain outings. It offers 27+3 litres of capacity, a ventilated Dry Net System back, a raincover, hydration compatibility, multiple pockets, pole and helmet holder options, and weighs 995 g.
What are the capacity, weight, and main features of the Ferrino Instinct 40+5 backpack?
The Ferrino Instinct 40+5 is a technical mountaineering backpack with a capacity of 40+5 liters and a modular weight ranging from 770 g to 1.15 kg. It is crafted from Dyneema® Composite Fabric and Double Diamond Cordura® with SuperFabric® reinforcements for maximum durability and lightness. It features a breathable Hollow Back System, dual ice axe holders, ski straps, and a rope carry system.
Is the Ferrino Maudit 30+5 backpack suitable for ski mountaineering?
Yes. The Ferrino Maudit 30+5 is designed for ski mountaineering and technical alpine routes. It has a 30+5 L capacity, side ski holders, removable ice axe holders, dedicated shovel and probe storage, full-opening access, a ventilated Hollow back system and an integrated RECCO reflector.
Is the Ferrino XMT 80+10 suitable for expeditions and multi-day trekking?
Yes. It is an expedition backpack designed for demanding trekking, long traverses and travel outside Europe. It offers an expandable capacity from 80 to 90 litres, an adjustable and breathable back panel, front and bottom access, and numerous solutions for organising and securing equipment. It weighs 2.65 kg and measures 85 × 35 × 28 cm.
Which backpacks is the Ferrino Cover 2 rain cover suitable for?
The Ferrino Cover 2 is suitable for hiking and trekking backpacks with a capacity of 40 to 90 litres. It is waterproof, lightweight and features an adjustable closure to protect the backpack from rain and moisture.
Is the Ferrino Caribou baby carrier suitable for hiking, and what is its maximum load?
Yes. The Ferrino Caribou is an ergonomic child carrier backpack designed for day hikes, mountain trails and family trekking. It is suitable for children who can sit unaided, typically from around six months, and supports a maximum load of 20 kg. This set includes rain and sun accessories.
Is the Ferrino Zephyr 27+3 backpack suitable for day hikes?
Yes. It has a capacity of 27 litres, expandable up to 30 litres, and is suitable for day hikes and light trekking. It also features a breathable Dry Net System back panel, H2 Bag hydration system compatibility and an integrated raincover.
What activities is the Ferrino Maudit 30+5 backpack suitable for, and how is the equipment organized?
The Ferrino Maudit 30+5 is a technical backpack for mountaineering, ski mountaineering and winter hiking, with an expandable capacity from 30 to 35 litres. It features a full front opening, a dedicated shovel and probe pocket, removable straps for skis or technical equipment, removable ice axe loops, an integrated RECCO reflector and compatibility with the H2 Bag hydration system.
Is the Ferrino XMT 60+10 backpack suitable for multi-day trekking and expeditions?
Yes. The Ferrino XMT 60+10 is designed for multi-day trekking, traverses, mountaineering and demanding expeditions. It offers an adjustable capacity from 60 to 70 litres, front access for quickly organising equipment, durable materials and an ergonomic, breathable back panel. It weighs 1.9 kg and measures 76 × 32 × 28 cm.