Quick answer: 30 to 50 liters. REI puts weekend trips of 1 to 3 nights in that range, with 50 to 80 liters for 3 to 5 nights and 70 or more for extended or winter trips. Pick the lower end if your tent, bag and pad are compact, and the upper end for bulky gear, cold weather or a shared load.
Liters measure the main compartment plus pockets, and brands measure slightly differently, so treat the numbers as a range.
This guide helps you land on the right end of the weekend range.
Related: tent camping gear checklist, choosing a hiking backpack and packing a backpack.
The Range
| Trip | REI capacity |
|---|---|
| Weekend, 1 to 3 nights | 30 to 50 liters |
| Multiday, 3 to 5 nights | 50 to 80 liters |
| Extended or winter | 70 liters or larger |
Which End of the Range
- Compact gear and mild weather: 30 to 40 liters.
- Bulky synthetic bag, larger tent, cold nights: 45 to 50 liters.
- Carrying for two or a bear canister: go to 50 or above.
Check Before You Buy
Lay out your sleep system, tent, food, stove and clothes and pack them into a box of the target volume. REI advises packing dense items in the core near your back, bulky sleep gear at the bottom, and trail essentials on top. If it does not fit with room for food, size up.
Honest Limits
Brands measure liters differently, and your gear decides more than the number. Test pack your actual gear before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 40 liters enough for a weekend?
Often, with compact gear and mild weather.
Is 50 liters too big for a weekend?
No. It is the top of the REI weekend range and suits bulky gear.
What about a one-night trip?
30 to 40 liters is usually enough.
Do liters include pockets?
Usually, but brands vary.
What size for winter weekends?
REI suggests 70 liters or larger for winter trips over one night.
Can I use a 65-liter pack for a weekend?
Yes, with compression straps; it is heavier than needed.
Where does the tent go?
In the core or on top, per REI.
What about a bear canister?
It takes core space; size toward 50 liters.
Does a daypack work for an overnight?
Rarely. Daypacks are usually under 40 liters.
How do I check fit?
Measure torso length and load the pack with about 15 pounds.
Bottom Line
A weekend pack is 30 to 50 liters.
Compact gear goes low in the range; bulky or cold-weather gear goes high.
Sources: REI, How to Choose a Backpack; REI, How to Pack a Backpack.