Pack capacity: what's it all mean?

[baitn'ga>me]

I'm new to backpacking and was mystified by all the ci's and cc's and the packs that didn't have that kind of measurement but instead just said "Osprey 70" (for example). What's it all mean?

I was also wondering what's the average size of a thru hikers pack?

[Boothill]

generally the # in a packs name is it's liter capacity, so the "osprey 70" would be a 70 liter pack, for osprey in particular the 70 liters is the measurement of the main compartment and the lid to get the 70 liters, outside compartments don't figure into the 70 on ospreys

boot

[Turtle Feet]

I believe "cc" & "ci" would be cubic centimeter and cubic inch - someone correct me if I'm wrong.

tf

[Smile]

Head to your local outfitter where they can give you the scoop, measure you - try to go local if you can

[kayak karl]

1 liter=61 cubic inches.
so 70 liters is equivalent to a 4270 cu. in. pack.
knowing this doesn't help if you haven't backpacked before.
as suggested, take all your gear to a local outfitters.

[Appalachian Tater]

If you're trying to compare packs, Google will convert measurements for you.

For instance, type in: 70 l = ? cubic inches
Get back: 70 l = 4 271.66209 cubic inches

or type: 12 liters in cubic inches
Get back: 12 liters = 732.284929 cubic inches

Works with money, too, if you are hiking the IAT:

Type: 12.99 CAD in USD
Get back: 12.99 Canadian dollars = 13.0513 US dollars

[baitn'ga>me]

Thanks for all the info! Very helpful!

[crazystick]

For me I find that a 60L pack is the best size. I do pack light though. Couldn't off hand tell you how many cubic inches that is but I believe it's around 3,300 . I got in the habit of thinking in liters . Most school sized backpacks or day packs are about 30 to 40 liters. Or as small as 20. Many say a 60L pack is good for about 3-5 days depending on how you pack.