Backpack Salewa Alptrek 42 – hiking backpack with 42 L capacity, quiet shade

The Salewa Alptrek 42 is a 42-litre hiking backpack designed for multi-day treks, mountaineering approaches and outdoor travel. It combines a medium-capacity main compartment with organized pockets and attachment points to keep clothing, safety gear and daily essentials accessible. The pack features an adjustable carrying system to adapt fit and load distribution, a robust fabric construction for trail use, and a top-loading design with secondary access for efficient packing and unpacking during extended trips.

Advantages

The backpack provides a balance of capacity and manageability, allowing users to carry equipment for multi-day trips without excess bulk. Its adjustable back and hip belt improve comfort over varying terrain and loads, while the organized pockets and attachment loops make it easier to separate wet and dry items or secure trekking poles and helmets. Durable materials and reinforced stress points increase longevity for regular outdoor use.

Suitable for

• Multi-day hiking and trekking where 40–45 litres of capacity are required
• Mountaineering approaches and alpine day-to-day travel with moderate gear
• Backpacking trips that require organized storage for clothing and technical equipment
• Outdoor enthusiasts who need a medium-sized pack with adjustable fit

When it may not be suitable

This 42 L pack is not intended for very long expeditions that require heavy mountaineering equipment or large volumes of food and fuel; those trips typically need larger expedition-style packs. It may also be less suitable for users who require a dedicated laptop compartment with heavy padding, as the design prioritizes trekking organization and outdoor features over office-style protection.

Key specifications

• Volume: 42 litres
• Pack type: top-loading hiking backpack with secondary access
• Carrying system: adjustable back and hip belt for load distribution and fit adaptation
• Materials: durable trail-grade fabric with reinforced stress points
• Organization: multiple pockets, attachment loops and compartments for gear separation
• Use: designed for trekking, mountaineering approaches and travel

How to use

Pack heavier items close to the back and centered to maintain balance; place sleeping systems and bulky gear at the bottom and frequently used items in external or top pockets. Adjust the hip belt and shoulder straps so the hip belt carries most of the load and the shoulder straps provide stabilization. Use external attachment points for trekking poles and quick-access pockets for maps, snacks and water. If the pack has a hydration sleeve, route the tube over the shoulder for easy drinking on the move.

What to consider before purchase

• Whether 42 litres meets your typical trip duration and gear volume needs
• Your torso length and the pack's adjustment range to ensure proper fit
• Required features such as rain cover compatibility, hydration system compatibility, and attachment options
• Weight of the empty pack versus durability expectations for frequent use

Usage recommendations

For comfortable long days on the trail, set up the carrying system and load the pack at home before departing, then make small adjustments after 30–60 minutes of walking to fine-tune fit. Regularly use pockets and attachment points to balance weight and keep essentials reachable.