Vango Backpacks

For a full day's hiking with layers, food and water, 20 to 30 litres is the right range. A 20 litre pack suits a half-day or a lightweight full-day outing; 25 to 30 litres gives you room for an extra layer, a waterproof and a packed lunch without the pack feeling oversized. Anything larger starts to feel unwieldy on a single-day route unless you are carrying specialist gear.

The hip belt should sit on your hip bones, not your waist, so that the bulk of the weight transfers off your shoulders and onto your hips. The shoulder straps should follow the curve of your shoulders without gaps and without digging in. Torso length, not height, determines the correct harness size: measure from the base of your neck to the top of your hip bones to find your torso length and match it to the pack's adjustment range.

Many Vango packs include a built-in rain cover stored in a base pocket. Check the individual product listing to confirm whether yours does. If not, a separate pack cover is worth carrying for hiking in Ireland given the frequency of rain, and a pack liner inside the main compartment gives a more thorough seal for multi-day trips where keeping kit dry is critical.

Day packs are compact and light, designed for single-day outings with a basic kit. They typically range from 15 to 35 litres and prioritise low weight over load-carrying features. Trekking rucksacks are built for multi-day routes carrying a tent, sleeping bag, mat, food and clothing. They have a structured back system with an adjustable harness and padded hip belt to distribute heavier loads comfortably over long distances.

Yes, choose Click & Collect at checkout. Orders are usually ready within 24 hours and you will get an email when ready. Available from our Dublin Carrickmines, Dublin Blanchardstown and Cork City Centre stores.

Yes, we offer free standard delivery on all orders over €100.

We have four stores across Ireland: Dublin Carrickmines, Dublin Blanchardstown, Cork City Centre and Arnotts Dublin.