If you’ve ever turned up to a trail run without enough water, struggled to carry your phone and keys on a longer road run, or had to cut a run short because you ran out of fuel, a running backpack might be exactly what you need. But not every runner needs one – and the wrong pack can make a run miserable. Here’s everything you need to know.
When Does a Running Backpack Make Sense?
Trail Running and Off-Road Adventures
Trail running is where a running backpack really comes into its own. When you’re out on the hills or in the woods, you need to carry more than you would on a road run – water, nutrition, an emergency layer, a map or phone and sometimes a first aid kit. A well-fitted trail running pack keeps everything accessible without slowing you down or throwing off your balance.
Long Distance Road Running
For longer road runs where you’re out for 90 minutes or more, carrying water and nutrition becomes a practical necessity. While a handheld bottle or waist belt works for some runners, a backpack distributes the weight more evenly and frees up your hands entirely – which many runners find more comfortable over longer distances.
Commuter Running
If you run to work or use your run to travel between places, a running backpack is essential. Purpose-built running packs are designed to sit close to the body without bouncing, so you can carry your laptop, lunch and a change of clothes without it feeling like a burden.
Racing – Ultras and Trail Events
Many trail races and ultra marathons require you to carry mandatory kit – a waterproof jacket, emergency food, a whistle and sometimes a survival blanket. A running backpack is non-negotiable for these events and most races specify a minimum capacity requirement.
When You Probably Don’t Need One
If you’re running shorter distances on roads – up to about 10K – you likely don’t need a backpack. A running belt or handheld bottle will cover most of your needs for distances under an hour. A backpack adds weight and, if not fitted correctly, can cause chafing and discomfort that outweighs the convenience.
What to Look for in a Running Backpack
Fit and Bounce
The most important thing in a running backpack is how it fits when you’re actually running. A pack that sits perfectly still when you walk can bounce uncomfortably at running pace. Look for packs with chest and sternum straps, a close-fitting back panel, and adjustable shoulder straps that can be tightened down to eliminate movement.
Capacity
Running backpacks are typically measured in litres. For day trail runs and most races, 8-12 litres is the sweet spot – enough for water, nutrition and an emergency layer without being too bulky. Larger packs (15-20 litres) are better for longer adventures where you need to carry more kit.
Hydration
Most running packs include either a hydration bladder compartment, front soft flask pockets or both. Soft flasks in the front chest pockets are particularly popular for racing as they’re easy to access without stopping – you can drink on the move without breaking stride.
Weight
The best running packs are as light as possible when empty. Every gram you carry is energy you’re spending – look for packs made from lightweight technical fabrics that don’t compromise on durability.
Pockets and Organisation
Think about what you’ll actually be carrying and whether the pack makes it easy to access. Nutrition in an easily accessible front pocket, phone in a dedicated sleeve, emergency layer at the back – good organisation makes a significant difference on longer runs when you’re tired and don’t want to stop and rummage.
The Two Running Backpacks We Stock at Running Bath
OMM Ultra 8 – £45
The OMM Ultra 8 is a lightweight, minimalist trail running pack designed for fast and light adventures. At just 8 litres it’s perfectly sized for day trail runs and shorter races, with front soft flask pockets for easy hydration access on the move. OMM (Original Mountain Marathon) have been making performance mountain kit for decades and the Ultra 8 reflects that – it’s built to perform in tough conditions without weighing you down. An excellent choice for trail runners who want a no-nonsense, well-made pack at a great price point. Shop the OMM Ultra 8
Salomon Trailblazer 10 – £60
The Salomon Trailblazer 10 offers a little more capacity and organisation than the OMM, making it a great all-rounder for trail running, longer road runs and commuter running alike. At 10 litres there’s room for water, nutrition, a light layer and your essentials, with Salomon’s ErgonFit shoulder straps that adapt to your body shape for a comfortable, bounce-free carry. Salomon are one of the most respected names in trail running and the Trailblazer delivers their characteristic attention to detail at an accessible price. Shop the Salomon Trailblazer 10
OMM Ultra 8 vs Salomon Trailblazer 10 – Which Should You Choose?
Both are excellent packs at a similar price point but they suit slightly different runners. The OMM Ultra 8 is the more minimalist option – lighter, simpler and ideal if you want a pure trail running pack for faster efforts and shorter races. The Salomon Trailblazer 10 has a little more room and organisation, making it the better choice if you want one pack that works across trail running, longer road runs and everyday use. If you’re not sure which suits you, pop into Running Bath and we’ll help you find the right fit.
Tips for Running with a Backpack
- Always try before you buy – fit is everything with a running pack. What feels fine standing still may bounce or chafe at running pace. Visit us in-store and we’ll fit you properly.
- Pack light – only carry what you actually need. Every unnecessary gram adds up over longer distances.
- Wear a technical base layer – running with a pack against a cotton t-shirt is a recipe for chafing. A moisture-wicking base layer makes a significant difference to comfort.
- Adjust on the move – tighten your straps once you start running rather than when standing still. The pack will settle differently at pace.
- Fill soft flasks before you head out – practise opening and drinking from them before race day if you’re running an event.
Running Backpacks – FAQs
Not at all – as long as the pack fits well and isn’t too heavy. A well-fitted running backpack should barely feel like it’s there. The key is choosing a pack designed for running rather than hiking or commuting, as these are built to minimise bounce and distribute weight efficiently.
For most trail runners and longer road runners, 8-12 litres is the ideal range. The OMM Ultra 8 and Salomon Trailblazer 10 both fall within this range and cover the needs of the majority of runners.
You can, but it’s not ideal. Regular backpacks aren’t designed to stay close to the body at running pace, so they tend to bounce and shift – causing discomfort and affecting your running form. A purpose-built running pack is worth the investment if you’re going to run with one regularly.
For most trail runs of over an hour, yes – particularly if you’re running in remote areas where water sources aren’t guaranteed. Many trail races also require you to carry mandatory kit, which needs a pack to carry safely. For shorter trail runs on well-marked routes near civilisation, you may be able to get by without one.
Running Bath stocks the OMM Ultra 8 and Salomon Trailblazer 10 in our store in Bath city centre. Pop in and we’ll help you find the right fit. Browse our full range online or visit us in-store. Free UK delivery on orders over £60.
Visit Running Bath for Running Backpacks and Trail Gear
We stock the OMM Ultra 8 and Salomon Trailblazer 10 alongside our full range of trail running shoes, clothing and accessories. Come into our store on the High Street in Bath and our team will help you find the right kit for your running. Shop the OMM Ultra 8 – Shop the Salomon Trailblazer 10. Free UK delivery on orders over £60 – easy returns – expert advice in-store and online.
Also useful: Running Routes in Bath – Best Running Shoes for Beginners – Book a Gait Analysis