Backpacks are a tool for freedom. They provide a way to carry all you need conveniently on your person, to be unencumbered and free to move through the world as you so, please. But a single perfect pack, ideal for every activity, simply does not exist. At Paddy Pallin, we keep an extensive range of hiking packs and other backpacks to cater to all of your different outdoor needs. With large rucksacks for long, self-supported treks and travel packs for world sojourns, to smaller daypacks and hydration packs for shorter outings, we’ve got a pack to fit every adventure. 

FAQs

Which brands of hiking packs does Paddy Pallin sell?

The range of hiking backpacks that Paddy Pallin stocks is primarily from Osprey. Based in the USA, Osprey are world leaders in making top quality outdoor packs and luggage. Their range of packs is truly impressive, with everything from large full-featured trekking packs, to super compact daypacks and everything in between. All of the Osprey hiking packs also come in a variety of different harness sizes, so you can be sure to get the perfect fit. 

What volume of backpack will I need for multi-day hiking?  

Typically for longer multi-day hikes, you’ll be carrying a lot more gear and supplies, and as such, a larger pack will be required. Exactly what volume you’ll want however varies on a few factors. How long are the trips you’ll be doing? What type of outdoor and camping gear do you have; compact, ultralight or bigger bulky gear? Are you doing cold weather trips or hiking in warmer climates? As a starting point: those doing shorter overnight trips with minimal gear, food and other supplies might want to look at a 35L - 50L pack, whilst people tackling longer and self-supported treks should be looking in the 55L - 85L range. 

How much weight should I carry in a hiking backpack? 

As little as possible! Packing light is what it’s all about. With that being said, there is a general rule of thumb for how much weight a person should carry in a backpack. That is, 20% of your body weight. So if you weigh 80kg, you shouldn't be carrying more than 16kg. Of course, how much you can carry will also depend on other factors, such as your strength, fitness and experience. Additionally, this really only applies for a proper hiking pack that features a sturdy harness and padded hip-belt. When shopping for packs we suggest taking the opportunity to load up the bag and testing how it feels on your back. Paddy Pallin stores also have pack-weights designed just for this purpose! 

How do I know what size backpack harness I’ll require? 

A lot of Osprey packs are available in different harness sizes, especially those in the hiking pack range. If you’re not sure what size you’ll need, be sure to check out this handy online guide that Osprey provide, which will assist with finding your exact measurements and pack size. Of course, our friendly staff can also measure you up in-store and make sure your new pack is fitted and adjusted to perfection. 

What brands of daypacks are available at Paddy Pallin? 

Aside from a great range of Osprey daypacks, Paddy Pallin also stocks daypacks from Arc’teryx, Patagonia, The North Face, Pacsafe, Sea to Summit and Camelbak, with models designed for hiking, everyday use, hydration, commuting, mountain biking, travel and more. 

Are the packs at Paddy Pallin waterproof?

Due to the way they’re typically constructed the majority of packs will not be fully waterproof. Packs that are fully waterproof will feature special fabrics, roll-top openings, and fully taped seams. That being said, most packs will be water-resistant to some degree and are usually constructed from durable weatherproof fabrics. Adding a pack liner or rain cover can also increase the weather resistance of your pack. 

Can I buy a hydration pack at Paddy Pallin?

Hydration is vital to hiking and outdoor activities. One of the best methods to keep hydrated whilst hiking is with a specially designed hydration pack. These will use a soft bladder and hose setup, which allow for super easy on-the-go drinking. We keep a variety of models in stock from Osprey and Camelbak. These hydration bladders are removable, and can also be purchased separately. Hot tip: You can use a hydration bladder with almost any hiking pack! All Osprey hiking packs have a special bladder pocket or sleeve, and a hole to route the hose through. 

Does Paddy Pallin sell travel packs? 

Yes! Our range of Osprey travel packs will have you travelling in style. When you’re globetrotting with a backpack, there are a few special features that will be mega useful. The first is options to secure the pack for airline travel, such as lockable zippers and a way to zip the harness away for protection. Another is a wide opening for easy access and organisation of your belongings. All Osprey travel packs have these features and more to make your backpacking life both safer easier.  

How should I store and care for my outdoor packs?

As with most outdoor gear, the key to your packs lasting a long time is care. Storing them clean, dry and away from direct sunlight is important. If possible in a well-ventilated area. When your pack gets dirty, we recommend cleaning it with warm water, a soft brush and a specialised outdoor equipment cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash. Make sure to open all zippers, and hang the cleaned pack up upside down to air dry. Machine washing is not recommended.  

Does Paddy Pallin stock hiking baby carriers? 

With an Osprey baby carrier, you can get out hiking as a family, right from the early days. The Osprey Poco hiking child carriers offer a supportive and practical solution to hiking with infants. They are feature-packed and have plenty of storage pockets for all the essentials. The Poco carries feature well-padded and fully adjustable harnesses, designed to fit both mum and dad. If you’d like to test out and try-on a baby carrier, just chat to one of our friendly staff instore. We would be more than happy to help!

What pack accessories and internal storage options are available? 

There are a few key accessories we always recommend. These to make your hiking pack perform even better, and keep the weather out. The first accessory we’d suggest is some kind of rain cover or pack liner, which come in various sizes to fit different packs.  Some people even use both, to really increase the weather resistance of their pack. No-one likes to end a day of hiking only to discover a pack full of soggy gear! Another super useful addition to your pack is some stuff sacks or dry-sacks to help compartmentalise your gear. These will come in various sizes, shapes and styles. Some will have a roll-top and be waterproof whilst others are designed to be breathable. Stuff sacks are a great way to keep gear separated, one for your food, another for clothes, and so on. Hot Tip: Make sure you get different colours for the different sized sacks, so as not to get them mixed up in your bag.