Fjallraven Kaipak 28 Backpack Review
The Fjallraven Kaipak is a durable hiking backpack designed for day hikes, hut-to-hut trips, and shorter trekking adventures. Its G-1000 Heavy Duty Eco fabric, fixed-length carrying system, rain cover, and practical storage make it a straightforward option for hikers who prioritize durability over ultralight weight.
I tested the backpack on two outdoor outings while carrying approximately 8–10 kg of gear. This gave me a chance to evaluate the carrying comfort, fit, ventilation, storage, and weather protection in real trail conditions.
How We Tested the Fjallraven Kaipak
I tested the backpack on two outdoor outings while carrying approximately 8–10 kg of gear, allowing me to evaluate the fit, carrying comfort, ventilation, storage access, compression system, and rain protection in real trail conditions. At 1.76 m tall, I also paid particular attention to how well the fixed back length and hip belt fitted my body.
Fjallraven Kaipak 28 Backpack Review
Technical Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 1,600 g |
| Volume | 38 L |
| Back length | 48–52 cm |
| Rain cover | Included |
| Material | G-1000 Heavy Duty Eco |
| Activities | Hiking & trekking |
Our Testing:
- Reviewer height: 1.76 m
- Test outings: 2
- Gear carried: approximately 8–10 kg
- Total pack load: approximately 10–12 kg
- Conditions evaluated: fit, ventilation, carrying comfort, storage and rain protection
Pros:
- Day hikers who prioritize durability
- Hut-to-hut and shorter trekking trips
- Hikers who prefer a traditional, straightforward backpack design
- Users who value weather-resistant materials and a supplied rain cover
- Hikers who want a stable carrying system for moderate loads
Cons:
- Ultralight hikers focused primarily on reducing pack weight
- Hikers who need a highly adjustable back-length system
- Users who regularly carry very heavy loads
- Smaller hikers who may not fit the fixed back length comfortably
The Fjallraven Kaipak 38 hiking backpack can be best described as simple. It maintains a straightforward design without unnecessary frills, yet incorporates all the essential features of a reliable hiking backpack. Even elements such as the logo featuring the iconic Arctic fox and the backpack’s name exhibit a sense of restraint.
Weighing 1600 grams, this backpack may not be considered lightweight for its 38-liter size, but it exudes a sense of quality when handled. The Kaipak 38 impresses with its meticulous craftsmanship, evident in the well-designed buckles, straps, and zippers that are both user-friendly and visually appealing.
The carrying system is easily adjustable to improve the overall comfort and functionality. These thoughtful details, which will be explored further below, enhance the overall positive impression of the Kaipak 38.
G-1000 Heavy Duty Eco S – Robust Outer Material
If you know Fjallraven, then G-1000 means something, doesn’t it? This substance is used by the manufacturer in almost all products. It is robust, breathable and windproof. It can be protected even better against wind and weather by applying Greenland’s own wax.
The G-1000 Heavy Duty Eco S material is a mix of recycled polyester and organic cotton. Greenland wax has already been applied to both sides at the factory for impregnation. This makes the G-1000 material even more durable, ideal for backpacks and ideally lasts a lifetime.
In addition, the G-1000 material does not require a plastic coating. This means that no coating can peel off or stick together over the years, as can be the case with other materials. The bottom of the pack is made of 100% polyamide 500D. 500D stands for the thread strength of the Cordura fabric. It is extremely abrasion and tear resistant and therefore ideally suited to protect the backpack from the ground.
If you need a pack designed specifically around women’s fit and torso proportions, our guide to women’s hiking backpacks compares options for day hikes, trekking, and multi-day trips.
Carrying System with Fixed Back Length and Stable Hip Belt
The Fjallraven Kaipak 38 has a carrying system with a fixed back length. So when buying it, make sure that the backpack fits your back and body size perfectly. The carrying straps, as well as the shoulder and hip areas of the carrying system, are well-padded. Carrying slightly larger loads is therefore not a problem.
We recommend carrying a maximum of 12 to 15 kilograms in this backpack. That’s an impressive load for its size and hard to match in other models. If you need to carry heavier gear, it’s best to opt for a larger backpack.
Air can circulate between the hip and shoulder pads for ventilation. The hip belts, each with a small compartment, are stable and flexible at the same time. Thanks to the compression straps, the hip straps of the backpack can be quickly adjusted to the hip circumference of the wearer.
For hiking in consistently wet conditions, consider a dedicated waterproof hiking backpack or use a rain cover and waterproof stuff sacks to protect sensitive gear.
Useful Equipment of the Fjallraven Kaipak 38
So, let’s start at the top with the features of the backpack. The lid compartment, which has two pockets, is height-adjustable. This means that the volume of the Fjallraven Kaipak 38 can be expanded by around 7 liters. The rain cover is stowed in the outer compartment of the lid compartment. On the inside, there is a small storage compartment with a zipper.
The large main compartment of the backpack, which is closed with compression straps and a drawstring, is located under the lid compartment. Both can be opened quickly and easily and provide a view of the inside. Here, in turn, a hydration bladder can be attached and stowed on the back. Otherwise, the main compartment offers enough space for everything you need to take with you on the tour.
An additional flat compartment on the front can be easily accessed via a zipper. This feature is handy for storing items such as maps, wind vests, or other essentials that you may need to retrieve quickly while on the move, without the need to empty the entire contents of your backpack.
The backpack offers convenient attachment options for hiking poles or an ice axe on the front. A larger loop holds the ice axe and can be neatly stowed in a dedicated slot when not in use. The smaller, always-visible loops are designed for trekking poles—the pole tip is inserted into the loop and secured with a metal hook located just below the lid compartment.
Furthermore, the Fjallraven Kaipak 38 has a mesh pocket on each side. Here you can easily store drinking bottles, for example. So that they don’t just fall out on the go, the pockets can be made smaller with the help of a drawstring. A detail that I have never noticed with any other manufacturer.
On the go with the Kaipak 38 hiking Backpack
I went out into nature twice with the Kaipak 38 to test it. The weight in the backpack was between 8 and 10 kilos on the two tours. With the backpack’s own weight, the load on the back was 10 to 12 kilograms.
With my height of 1.76 meters, the Fjallraven Kaipak 38 can be ideally adjusted to my back. The backpack is built with ergonomic design and quality padding and does not pinch or pinch anywhere. The stable hip belts are also not in the way, and the backpack always sits where it should.
In my opinion, the ventilation works reliably. Although I am someone who always sweats slightly on my back. It doesn’t matter which backpack or carrying system it is. That’s probably not going to happen entirely.
Personally, it doesn’t bother me in any way. Since I was out and about with the Kaipak 38 last fall, the temperatures were always in the double-digit plus range. If you then take a break and put the backpack down, I put on an insulating jacket while I do it so that my back doesn’t get completely cold.
I didn’t need the integrated rain cover. But it can be put over the backpack in no time at all and is quickly stowed away again in the lid compartment.
Speaking of rain! The Kaipak 38, or the material used, is already impregnated from the outset. If the weather forecast leaves something to be desired, you can additionally impregnate the backpack with Greenland Wax. In that case, you will most likely not need a rain cover afterward. However, to be on the safe side, it makes sense to use the rain cover when the sky gets wet.
Conclusion
The Fjallraven Kaipak is a good choice for hikers who want a durable, straightforward backpack rather than an ultralight design. In my testing, I carried roughly 10–12 kg including the backpack, and the carrying system remained comfortable and stable for my 1.76 m frame.
Its fixed back length means getting the right fit is particularly important. If the fit works for you, the durable G-1000 material, practical storage, compression straps, and included rain cover make it a capable option for day hikes and shorter trekking trips.
If you’re shopping on a tighter budget, these hiking backpacks under $100 offer several practical options without requiring a premium-priced pack.
FAQs: Fjallraven Kaipak Suitable Backpack
Is the Fjallraven Kaipak suitable for day hiking?
Yes. Based on my testing, the Kaipak is well suited to longer day hikes and shorter trekking trips. I carried approximately 8–10 kg of gear during two outings, with a total pack load of around 10–12 kg including the backpack, and found the carrying system comfortable and stable.
Is the Fjallraven Kaipak good for overnight trips?
The Kaipak can work well for minimalist overnight or hut-to-hut trips where you do not need to carry a large amount of bulky equipment. Its main compartment, lid storage, side pockets, and attachment points provide useful space for hiking and trekking essentials.
Is the Fjallraven Kaipak waterproof?
No. The G-1000 fabric is water-resistant and can be treated with Greenland Wax for additional weather protection, but the backpack should not be considered completely waterproof. A rain cover is included, providing additional protection during wet conditions.
How much weight can the Fjallraven Kaipak comfortably carry?
During my testing, I carried approximately 10–12 kg including the backpack and found the carrying system comfortable. I would recommend staying around the 12–15 kg range based on the backpack’s design, rather than treating it as a pack for consistently heavy loads.
Is the Fjallraven Kaipak suitable for shorter hikers?
Fit is an important consideration because the backpack uses a fixed back-length carrying system. At 1.76 m tall, I was able to adjust the pack comfortably during my testing. Shorter hikers should pay particular attention to the stated back length and fit before buying.
Does the Fjallraven Kaipak have an adjustable back length?
The carrying system has a fixed back length rather than a fully adjustable back-length system. The shoulder straps, hip belt, and compression system can still be adjusted, but choosing the correct size and ensuring the fixed back length fits your body is important.
What makes the Fjallraven Kaipak different from a lightweight hiking backpack?
The Kaipak prioritizes durable materials, a straightforward design, and practical features rather than minimizing weight. At around 1,600 g, it is not an ultralight backpack, but its G-1000 Heavy Duty Eco material and sturdy construction make it appealing to hikers who value durability.
Does the Fjallraven Kaipak come with a rain cover?
Yes. A rain cover is included and is stored in the lid compartment. During my testing, I did not need to use it, but I found that it could be deployed and packed away quickly when needed.
Is this backpack ideal for long day hikes or overnight trips?
Absolutely! This backpack is excellent for long day hikes and can even handle minimalist overnight trips. Its versatile design ensures you can comfortably carry essentials without feeling weighed down, making it perfect for adventurous hikers and weekend explorers alike.
