# Contoso Outdoor - Backpacks & Hiking Gear Guide 2026

## Your Complete Backpack Selection Guide

Welcome to Contoso's comprehensive backpack collection. Whether you're planning a day hike or a month-long expedition, we have the perfect pack to carry your gear comfortably and efficiently.

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## Understanding Backpack Sizing

### How to Measure Your Torso Length:
1. Locate your C7 vertebra (the bony bump at the base of your neck when you tilt your head forward)
2. Place your hands on your hip bones at the iliac crest
3. Measure the distance between these two points

**Size Chart:**
- **X-Small:** 15-16 inches (38-41 cm)
- **Small:** 16-17 inches (41-43 cm)
- **Medium:** 17-19 inches (43-48 cm)
- **Large:** 19-21 inches (48-53 cm)
- **X-Large:** 21+ inches (53+ cm)

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## Daypacks (20-35 Liters)

### SummitTrail 25L Daypack
**SKU:** PACK-ST-25  
**Price:** $89.99  
**Sizes:** One Size (fits most)

Perfect for day hikes, urban exploring, and daily commutes.

**Specifications:**
- **Capacity:** 25 liters
- **Weight:** 1.3 lbs (590g)
- **Dimensions:** 18" x 11" x 9" (46 x 28 x 23 cm)
- **Materials:**
  - 210D ripstop nylon body
  - 420D nylon reinforced bottom panel
  - Water-resistant coating

**Features:**
- Breathable mesh back panel with air channels
- Padded shoulder straps with sternum strap
- Removable waist belt
- Hydration bladder compatible (3L capacity) - bladder sold separately
- Two side water bottle pockets (holds up to 32oz bottles)
- Front organization pocket with key clip
- Trekking pole attachment straps
- Reflective accents for visibility

**Best For:** Day hiking, biking, school, travel

**Available Colors:** Forest Green, Slate Blue, Charcoal Grey, Sunset Orange

**Warranty:** 3-year limited warranty

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### Explorer Pro 32L
**SKU:** PACK-EP-32  
**Price:** $129.99  
**Sizes:** S/M, M/L

A versatile technical daypack for serious hikers who need more capacity and features.

**Specifications:**
- **Capacity:** 32 liters
- **Weight:** 2.1 lbs (950g)
- **Torso Range:** S/M (16-18"), M/L (18-21")
- **Materials:**
  - 210D ripstop nylon with DWR finish
  - YKK zippers throughout
  - 1680D ballistic nylon bottom panel

**Features:**
- AirFlow suspended mesh back panel for maximum ventilation
- Load-lifting shoulder straps with dual adjustment points
- Padded hip belt with zippered pockets
- Top-loading main compartment with U-zip access
- Dedicated hydration sleeve with tube port (holds 3L bladder)
- Trekking pole attachments and ice axe loop
- Stretch mesh side pockets
- Zippered front stash pocket
- Internal security pocket with key clip
- Gear loops and bungee compression system
- Emergency whistle on sternum strap

**Best For:** Technical day hikes, scrambling, via ferrata, winter hiking

**Available Colors:** Alpine Blue, Summit Black, Trail Red

**Warranty:** 5-year limited warranty

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## Weekend Backpacks (40-50 Liters)

### TrailMaster 45L
**SKU:** PACK-TM-45  
**Price:** $189.99  
**Sizes:** S, M, L, XL

The ideal pack for 1-3 night trips, offering excellent value and comfort.

**Specifications:**
- **Capacity:** 45 liters (2,745 cubic inches)
- **Weight:** 3.8 lbs (1.72 kg)
- **Load Range:** 25-40 lbs (11-18 kg)
- **Torso Range by Size:**
  - Small: 16-17"
  - Medium: 17-19"
  - Large: 19-21"
  - X-Large: 21-23"

**Materials:**
- 420D nylon ripstop body
- 600D polyester base
- Water-resistant coating (not waterproof)

**Features:**
- Adjustable torso length (4-inch range on each size)
- Dual-density foam shoulder straps with load lifters
- Padded hip belt with dual zippered pockets
- Removable top lid converts to sling bag
- Front J-zip panel access to main compartment
- Sleeping bag compartment with divider
- Side compression straps
- Dual ice axe loops with bungee retention
- Integrated rain cover stored in bottom pocket
- Trekking pole attachments
- Multiple lash points and gear loops
- Hydration compatible (3L reservoir not included)

**Organization:**
- Main compartment
- Sleeping bag compartment
- Top lid pocket with internal mesh pocket
- Front stretch pocket
- Two hip belt pockets
- Two side water bottle pockets

**Best For:** Weekend backpacking, overnight trips, hut-to-hut hiking

**Available Colors:** Forest Green, Navy Blue, Grey/Black

**Warranty:** 5-year limited warranty

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### Alpine Trekker 50L
**SKU:** PACK-AT-50  
**Price:** $249.99  
**Sizes:** S, M, L, XL

Premium weekend pack with enhanced comfort and technical features.

**Specifications:**
- **Capacity:** 50 liters + 10L extendable collar = 60L max
- **Weight:** 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg)
- **Load Range:** 25-50 lbs (11-23 kg)
- **Torso Range:** Same as TrailMaster 45L

**Materials:**
- 420D ripstop nylon with PU coating
- 840D ballistic nylon reinforcement panels
- YKK zippers with waterproof construction

**Features:**
- FreeFloat adjustable suspension system (6" adjustment range)
- 3D-molded foam back panel with ventilation channels
- Ergonomic shoulder straps with dual-density foam
- Sculpted hip belt with four pockets (two zippered, two stretch)
- Rotating top lid with spacer mesh back
- Front panel J-zip access
- Separate bottom sleeping bag compartment with internal divider
- Dual side compression straps with load stabilizers
- Built-in rain cover
- Multiple gear attachment points
- Trekking pole and ice tool attachments
- Sternum strap with integrated safety whistle
- Hydration sleeve and port (3L capacity)

**Advanced Features:**
- QuickAdjust torso system - no tools required
- Load transfer shelf for optimal weight distribution
- Removable framesheet (reduce weight for lighter loads)
- SOS safety card holder on shoulder strap

**Organization:**
- Main compartment with internal security pocket
- Sleeping bag compartment
- Floating lid with two zippered pockets
- Large front shove-it pocket
- Four hip belt pockets
- Two side stretch pockets
- Dual ice axe loops

**Best For:** Weekend backpacking, alpine trekking, shoulder-season trips

**Available Colors:** Summit Black, Mountain Grey, Alpine Blue, Terra Red

**Warranty:** 10-year limited warranty

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## Expedition Backpacks (60-75 Liters)

### Expedition Pro 65L
**SKU:** PACK-EP-65  
**Price:** $349.99  
**Sizes:** S, M, L, XL

Our flagship expedition pack designed for extended trips and heavy loads.

**Specifications:**
- **Capacity:** 65 liters + 15L extendable collar = 80L max
- **Weight:** 5.2 lbs (2.36 kg)
- **Load Range:** 35-65 lbs (16-29 kg)
- **Frame:** Internal aluminum stays (removable and adjustable)

**Materials:**
- 420D high-tenacity nylon ripstop
- 1000D ballistic nylon bottom and stress points
- TPU coating for superior waterproofing
- YKK RC zippers (water-resistant)

**Features:**
- ExoFrame external aluminum perimeter frame with internal stays
- Precision-fit adjustable suspension system (8" adjustment)
- 3D-molded back panel with air channels
- Ultra-comfortable shoulder straps with four adjustment points
- Load-bearing hip belt with four zippered pockets plus stretch pockets
- Dual-access main compartment (top and front panel J-zip)
- Large separate sleeping bag compartment with removable divider
- Vertical side zip access panels (both sides)
- Reinforced compression straps (4 vertical, 2 horizontal)
- Premium integrated rain cover with reflective accents
- Multiple external gear attachment points
- Trekking pole sleeves with lower tip holders
- Dual ice tool loops with secure bungee system
- Crampon patch on front
- Helmet attachment straps

**Organizational System:**
- Large main compartment with internal compression straps
- Sleeping bag compartment (bottom access)
- Detachable top lid with two zippered compartments
- Front kangaroo pocket (fits rope or extra clothing)
- Four hip belt pockets (expandable)
- Two large side stretch pockets
- Internal hydration sleeve (3L capacity)
- Internal valuables pocket with RFID protection
- Key attachment clip

**Comfort Technology:**
- AirFlow back panel design
- Moisture-wicking shoulder strap and hip belt fabric
- Load transfer bars in hip belt
- Adjustable sternum strap with whistle
- Padded grab handles (top and side)

**Best For:** Week-long trips, mountaineering, winter camping, international trekking

**Available Colors:** Expedition Black, Mountain Blue, Alpine Grey

**Warranty:** Lifetime limited warranty

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### Summit Master 75L
**SKU:** PACK-SM-75  
**Price:** $429.99  
**Sizes:** M, L, XL

Our largest and most capable pack for extended expeditions and high-altitude mountaineering.

**Specifications:**
- **Capacity:** 75 liters + 15L collar extension = 90L max
- **Weight:** 6.1 lbs (2.77 kg)
- **Load Range:** 40-80 lbs (18-36 kg)
- **Frame:** Dual aluminum stay system with HDPE framesheet

**Materials:**
- 630D ripstop nylon with triple waterproof coating
- 1680D ballistic nylon reinforced base
- Ultra-durable YKK Aquaguard zippers
- Welded, waterproof construction

**Features:**
- Advanced ComfortCradle suspension with 10" adjustment range
- Sculptured dual-density foam back panel
- Ventilated back system with channeled foam
- Competition-grade shoulder harness with four-point adjustment
- Ultra-padded hip belt (6 pockets total)
- Roll-top closure plus lid for maximum capacity
- Triple compartment design (main, sleeping bag, lower gear)
- Full-length side zip access (both sides)
- Compression system with six straps plus V-straps
- Integrated, removable top lid that converts to day pack
- Heavy-duty gear loops and lash points throughout
- Reinforced ice tool attachments
- Rope strap with compression buckle
- Ski/snowboard carrying system
- Detachable rain cover with high-visibility accents

**Advanced Features:**
- Tool-free micro-adjustment hip belt
- Removable framesheet and stays for weight customization
- Dual hydration sleeves (can carry two 3L bladders)
- Winter-specific design elements (compatible with crampons and skis)
- High-visibility beacon attachment point
- Emergency repair kit pocket

**Extensive Organization:**
- Expansive main compartment with internal tie-downs
- Lower sleeping bag/gear compartment
- Removable divider system
- Top lid with two large zippered pockets
- Front U-zip pocket
- Four hip belt pockets
- Two side stretch pockets with compression
- Internal security pocket
- Hydration compartment with reinforced tube exits

**Best For:** Extended expeditions, high-altitude mountaineering, polar exploration, guided treks

**Available Colors:** Expedition Black, Ice Blue

**Warranty:** Lifetime limited warranty

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## Ultralight Backpacks

### FastPack Ultra 40L
**SKU:** PACK-FP-40  
**Price:** $279.99  
**Sizes:** S/M, M/L

Minimalist design for ultralight enthusiasts and fast-packers.

**Specifications:**
- **Capacity:** 40 liters
- **Weight:** 1.8 lbs (816g)
- **Load Range:** 15-30 lbs (7-14 kg)
- **Frame:** Frameless with removable foam framesheet

**Materials:**
- Ultra-light 100D ripstop nylon with silicone coating
- Dyneema reinforced stress points
- YKK ultralight zippers

**Features:**
- Minimalist shoulder straps with strategic padding
- Removable hip belt and sternum strap
- Roll-top closure with storm collar
- Simple main compartment design
- External mesh pockets (sides and front)
- Trekking pole/ice axe loops
- Hydration bladder sleeve
- Removable sit pad (doubles as framesheet)

**Design Philosophy:**
- Stripped-down weight
- Versatile capacity
- Durable construction
- Trail-proven reliability

**Best For:** Ultralight backpacking, thru-hiking, fastpacking, peak bagging

**Available Colors:** Trail Grey, Summit Black

**Warranty:** 3-year limited warranty

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## Backpack Accessories

### Rain Cover Collection
**SKU:** ACC-RC-SERIES  
**Price Range:** $19.99 - $34.99

Custom-fit rain covers available for all Contoso backpack sizes:
- Small (20-35L): $19.99
- Medium (35-50L): $24.99
- Large (50-75L): $29.99
- X-Large (75L+): $34.99

High-visibility colors with reflective accents. Includes stuff sack.

### Hydration Bladder - 3L
**SKU:** ACC-HYD-3L  
**Price:** $39.99

BPA-free, taste-free hydration bladder with:
- 3-liter (100oz) capacity
- Wide opening for easy filling and cleaning
- Slide-seal top
- Insulated drinking tube
- Magnetic tube clip
- Lifetime warranty against leaks

### Pack Liner - Waterproof
**SKU:** ACC-LINER  
**Price:** $24.99

Available sizes:
- 40L: $24.99
- 60L: $29.99
- 80L: $34.99

Ultralight silnylon waterproof liner. Keeps gear dry in any conditions.

### Backpack Repair Kit
**SKU:** ACC-REPAIR  
**Price:** $16.99

Essential field repair kit includes:
- Duct tape
- Nylon patches
- Needle and thread
- Webbing
- Buckle assortment
- Repair instructions

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## Fitting Your Backpack

### The Perfect Fit:

**Step 1: Adjust Torso Length**
- Loosen all straps
- Adjust torso length so hip belt sits on hip bones (iliac crest)

**Step 2: Hip Belt**
- Load pack with approximately 20 lbs
- Buckle hip belt so it's centered on hip bones
- Tighten until 80% of weight is on hips

**Step 3: Shoulder Straps**
- Pull shoulder straps snug but not tight
- Should fit smoothly without gaps
- Shoulder strap anchors should be 1-2 inches below shoulder tops

**Step 4: Load Lifters**
- Adjust load lifters at 45-degree angle
- Should pull weight off shoulders

**Step 5: Sternum Strap**
- Position sternum strap for comfortable breathing
- Should be 2-3 inches below collarbone

**Step 6: Stabilizer Straps**
- Tighten hip belt stabilizers to transfer load

### Pro Tip:
Visit a Contoso retail location for a professional fitting. Our trained staff will help you find the perfect pack and ensure optimal fit.

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## Care and Maintenance

### Cleaning Your Pack:
1. Empty all compartments
2. Spot clean with mild soap and water
3. Use soft brush for stubborn dirt
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water
5. Hang to dry in well-ventilated area - never machine dry
6. Store loosely - never compressed

### Storage Tips:
- Store in cool, dry place
- Keep out of direct sunlight
- Ensure completely dry before storage
- Leave all buckles unfastened
- Hang or store loosely

### Maintenance:
- Check stitching regularly
- Inspect buckles and zippers
- Re-waterproof as needed
- Repair small tears immediately
- Professional cleaning for heavily soiled packs

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## Contact Information

**Contoso Outdoor**  
Customer Service: 1-800-CONTOSO  
Email: backpacks@contosooutdoor.com  
Website: www.contosooutdoor.com/backpacks

**Find a Retailer:** www.contosooutdoor.com/store-locator

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*All specifications are approximate. Capacity and weight may vary slightly. Colors may vary from images shown. See individual product pages for complete specifications.*

**Last Updated:** January 2026
