Backpack or Bergen

Bergens, backpacks, rucksacks and knapsacks are somewhat interchangeable in name and differ depending on where you buy them from, so it can be a bit of a nightmare finding what you're really looking for.

Typically a backpack search will find you your run of the mill day packs, ranging from 30-40 litres, searching for a rucksack will typically find your larger hiking pack at 50-70 litres and a Bergen normally refers to a military style rucksack with 60-100l. A lesser searched knapsack normally refers to a smaller Bergen, usually made of canvas, in your 30-40l range.

As we say, the names are very much interchangeable, so you'll find each in varying sizes and styles that cross over in description, so here we try to help you find what suits you best.

When choosing what you put on your back, before you set off to your next adventure, there's a few things you should have in mind:

• Will it comfortably fit everything I want to carry?

• Will it stand up to the elements I want to use it in?

• Will it be a comfortable fit for the weight I'll likely carry, the distance I'll travel and the time I'll have it on for?

• Will it be as accessible as I want it to be?

• Will it be in the style I prefer?

• Will it be within budget?

The price you're willing or able to pay will of course have an impact for what you choose, so we'll share a few of our favorites in different price ranges to help you choose the best one for you. We're not paid for any reviews or referrals, so you can trust that we give you the usual honest reviews on things we've field tested.

If you're heading out for the day, then your choices are easier. 30 litres is more than ample and whether you prefer a water bladder, or to carry your bottle in a side pouch, there are many great options to choose from (too many to list). So if you're just looking to pack your lunch, water and a few survival essentials then we'd recommend any Berghaus or Karrimor backpack, as you'll find a good balance of reasonable quality and value on most of their options. These also come in handy as a a quick overnight bag if you're packing light in the summer for an impromptu WildCamping trip, where you can bug out with the essentials. The key downside is that you'll need to limit what you take, so redundancy backups e.g. multiple sources of shelter and heat are unlikely options. A reasonable price to pay should be around the £20-30 range.

If you're looking to WildCamp overnight or for the weekend then, unless you're a seasoned WildCamper and BushCrafter and stripped down to the bare essentials, then you'll likely make things a whole lot easier if you go for something a little bigger and pick a 40-60l rucksack or bergen, so it's adaptable for summer camping, with a little extra space to attach extras to the outside, like a roll mat and sleeping system. Our favorites are Highlander Pro-Force and the Karrimor Superlight 45+10. This is likely to be the most versatile option for you and a reasonable price to pay should be around the £35 to £45 range.

If you're looking to pack for a week, survive in the harshest winters, have almost unlimited space for your gadgets and goodies, or even sustain survival in the wild then we'd go all out with a 90-100l bergen to cater for the more extreme scenarios. Size and weight are definitely factors here, so if you're looking to take the kitchen sink then you better opt for cushioned straps, belt and chest straps and decent and breathable back support. Our favorites are the Snugpak Rocket and Forclaz Trek 900. These will set you back over £100 each (or if you really want to push the boat out you can opt for the Wisport Racoon that comes with an eye-watering price tag), but we think they're worth it. Each are made from robust materials, have great back support and look the part in the wild. They're not the smallest, but you can always pack light and leave room for your favorite snacks and a few beers!

We're interested what your rucksack of choice is, so share in the comments and we'll check them out. If you buy one of the rucksacks we recommended then let us know what you think.