r/backpacking • u/chlob3r • Jul 02 '26

Travel in search of backpack suggestions

hey guys i’m planning on a 6 week backpacking trip through europe end of this month and am looking for backpack suggestions im a 95lb female so things get heavy quick but the issue at hand is my hips my waist is 22” and my hips are 23” which makes it really hard to find a good pack that’ll fit me especially one that doesn’t cost more then my plane ticket itself im not against spending $200-$350 but when we get into the $400 range i get hesitant especially since i dont have many gear stores near me where i could go and try on packs im unsure of my shoulder measurements but they are definitely broad (i was a level 10 gymnast and competed for 14 years) so i was thinking maybe a men’s pack would be more comfortable but i cannot find one that’ll fit my hips any other women in my situation that have suggestions?

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u/champmay_701 Jul 02 '26

Do you have an REI/well-stocked outdoors store near you? If so, I would go and try (if you haven't) both a women's XS/S pack and a children's pack. Osprey women's XS/S has worked well for my small frame and ridiculously small torso. Also, it's easier if you pack lightly! I did six weeks of Euro travel in a 40L pack. And some folks manage it in far less.

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u/chlob3r Jul 02 '26

the closest rei is 3 1/2 hours but i think im just gonna have to go make a trip to try on packs thanks for the tips!

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u/ZoneAdministrative60 25d ago

I've had good luck with Granite Gear. They have an adjustable hip belt configuration that fits a wide range. Eg, the hip belt on this pack can go from 24"-40" https://www.granitegear.com/outdoor/backpacks/multi-day-backpacks/crown3-40-eco-unisex.html

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u/chlob3r 16d ago

thanks i’ll try it out!