WalkingWomen guide to choosing your perfect walking companion ..
A good day pack can make all the difference between a wonderful day out walking and one spent adjusting straps, nursing aching shoulders or searching endlessly for your waterproof jacket!
At WalkingWomen, we believe that comfort is key to enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you’re strolling along the coast, exploring beautiful countryside or heading into the mountains, your backpack should feel like a trusted companion – not an extra burden.
For most day walks, we recommend a backpack between 18 and 25 litres.
10–15 litres: Perfect for shorter walks in fine weather.
18–25 litres: Our favourite all-round size for a full day of walking.
25–30 litres: Ideal for longer mountain days or when you need extra warm clothing and equipment.
Remember, the bigger the bag, the more tempting it is to fill it!
Why Choose a Women’s Specific Backpack?
Women’s backpacks are often designed with shorter back lengths, differently shaped shoulder straps and hip belts that better accommodate different body shapes.
But every woman is different. The best backpack is the one that fits your body, whether it’s labelled women’s or unisex.
Our advice? Always try a backpack on with some weight inside before buying it.
Five Features We Love
A comfortable hip belt. This helps transfer weight from your shoulders to your hips.
A breathable back panel. Especially welcome on warm summer walks.
Easy-access pockets. Somewhere handy for snacks, sunglasses, tissues and your phone.
Waterproof protection. A rain cover or waterproof liner is essential when the weather turns.
Adjustable straps. So you can get the fit just right and keep the pack stable.
Three Day Packs Worth Trying
Osprey Tempest 22 – The All-Rounder
A versatile women’s hiking pack with an adjustable fit, supportive hip belt and useful pockets. A great starting point for women who enjoy regular day walks.
Deuter Futura 25 SL – For Comfort and Ventilation
Designed with a shorter back fit and a ventilated carrying system. Worth considering for longer days and warmer climates.
Gregory Juno 24 – For Easy Organisation
A comfortable day-hiking option with a ventilated back and accessible storage. Particularly appealing if you like everything to have its place.
These are suggestions . Fit is more important than brand, so try several before deciding.
What Should You Carry?
Our WalkingWomen essentials include water, lunch and snacks, waterproofs, a warm layer, sun protection, personal medication, a small first-aid kit and a fully charged phone. Your guide may recommend additional equipment depending on the walk and conditions.
And perhaps a little chocolate – because there is nothing quite like enjoying a treat together at the top of a hill!
Our Final WalkingWomen Tip
Buy for comfort, not colour – although we’re all for a splash of colour too!
The right day pack should allow you to forget what’s on your back and concentrate on what really matters: the landscape, the fresh air, the conversations and the joy of walking together.
