The Difference Between a Daypack & an Overnite Pack

From daypacks for shorter journeys to overnight packs for serious campouts, outdoor-gear makers sell packs for virtually every condition or trip. Regardless of the type of pack you choose, don't use it for the first time on a big trip. Take your new pack on a few short test runs close to home first to determine if it fits your needs.

  1. Daypacks

    • In their size and shape, daypacks are almost indistinguishable from a schoolbook backpack. Most daypacks have a carrying capacity of around 30 liters, or 1,830 cubic inches -- enough space to carry up to 15 pounds of equipment, food and water, according to REI. Comfortable versions should have padded backs and shoulder straps and a reinforced bottom made of a tough nylon such as Cordura. Daypacks also have several pockets for carrying glasses, cameras, cell phones and other small gadgets. An empty daypack weighs 1.5 pounds to 3 pounds.

    Overnight Packs

    • Packs for overnight treks have aluminum or graphite frames to maintain their structure. They're also larger, with interior space starting at 50 liters, or 3,050 cubic inches, and ranging up to 90 liters, or 5,490 cubic inches, according to bushwalking.org. Overnight packs can handle more equipment: Smaller overnighters can carry 35 pounds of gear and food, while larger versions can hold as much as 60 pounds. To help campers bear that weight, overnight packs have extra support, including fixed waistbands to lighten the load on shoulders and backs. Overnight packs are considerably heavier than daypacks, weighing up to 6 pounds empty. They're also pricier, easily costing three to four times more than a standard daypack.

    Other Packs

    • Canyon packs are waterproof carriers with durable fabric coated in the polymer polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Alpine packs are narrow at the top and wider at the bottom, a design meant to place more weight lower on the body. Hydration packs, such as the CamelBak, hold up to 100 ounces of water and have a straw system that allows hikers to drink while they're on the move. Hosteling packs come with large zippers over their tops for quick access to the bag's entire contents.

    What Pack to Choose

    • Daypacks are suited to hikes lasting less than a day. Overnight packs are built for longer journeys; the smallest overnight packs can accommodate gear for a two-day trip, while the biggest can contain a week's worth of equipment and food. Canyon packs are meant to double as flotation devices and are ideal for river-rafting trips. Because their bottom-heavy construction provides improved balance, Alpine packs work best for mountain climbing. Choose a hosteling pack for a longer trip that involves multiple stops. And all serious hikers and campers should invest in a hydration pack. Smaller versions for daytrips can weigh as little as 25 ounces when full.