Arc Haul Ultra 70L vs 60L: Sizing Your Ultralight Pack
By Zpacks | Level Up Your Next Adventure | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: Comparisons
Compare the 70L and 60L Arc Haul Ultra backpacks to find the right volume for your thru-hike or week-long trip, with trade-offs on weight, capacity, and fit.
Quick answer
Choose the 70L if you carry a bear canister, winter gear, or resupply for 5+ days; pick the 60L for lighter, shorter trips where every ounce counts.
Volume vs. weight trade-off
The 70L and 60L Arc Haul Ultra backpacks share the same Ultra 100X fabric and adjustable frame, but the 10-liter difference affects how you pack and how much you carry. The 70L model (unisex and women’s) gives you room for bulkier items like a bear canister or puffy jacket, while the 60L trims a few ounces and forces more disciplined packing.
Both backpacks roll down when under-filled, so the 70L can compress for smaller loads, but the 60L is inherently lighter and less prone to overpacking. If you often carry a full load, the extra volume of the 70L prevents gear spill-over; if you prefer a minimalist system, the 60L keeps you honest.
Fit and customization options
Both sizes come with adjustable torso, shoulder straps, and belt length, and the women’s versions are shaped for a shorter torso and narrower shoulders. The 70L and 60L share the same suspension design, so comfort depends more on torso fit than volume. Measure your torso before ordering to match the size options.
The women’s Arc Haul Ultra 70L and 60L both have the same frame and hip belt as the unisex versions but with a curved shoulder strap and narrower belt. If you’re between sizes, the 70L offers more room to adjust the load while the 60L feels more compact.
Trade-offs at a glance
- 70L: More room, more weight: Carries a bear canister, winter bag, or 7+ days of food without external lashing. Weighs slightly more than the 60L, but the roll-top lets you compress it for smaller loads. Best for trips where you can't predict your gear list or you need to carry bulky items.
- 60L: Lighter, leaner, more disciplined: Saves a few ounces and forces you to pack only what you need. Works for 3-5 day resupplies and minimalist gear lists. A bear canister may need to be strapped externally. Best for experienced ultralight hikers who already own compact gear.
- Women's versions: Same trade-offs, better fit for shorter torsos: Both women's 70L and 60L have curved shoulder straps and narrower belts. The volume difference mirrors the unisex models, so choose based on trip length and gear bulk. Measure your torso and try the women's fit if you have a shorter torso or narrower shoulders.
Product facts
- Women's Arc Haul Ultra 70L Backpack: Women's Arc Haul Ultra 70L is made from Ultra 100X fabric and designed for epic thru-hikes and everyday escapes. The 70L volume accommodates a bear canister or winter gear without external strapping, making it ideal for long resupply stretches.
Women's Arc Haul Ultra 70L Backpack - Arc Haul Ultra 70L Backpack: Arc Haul Ultra 70L rolls down when not full, so you can use it for both big and small loads. This flexibility means you don't need a separate smaller pack for shorter trips, but you still carry the base weight of the larger frame.
Arc Haul Ultra 70L Backpack - Women's Arc Haul Ultra 60L Backpack: Women's Arc Haul Ultra 60L uses the same Ultra 100X fabric and suspension as the 70L but with a smaller main compartment. The 60L saves a few ounces and encourages a lighter pack, but may require you to strap a bear canister on top or leave bulky items behind.
- Arc Haul Ultra 60L Backpack: Arc Haul Ultra 60L is praised by thru-hikers for comfort on long days between resupply. Hikers on the Appalachian Trail report full satisfaction, confirming the 60L is enough for typical 3-5 day food carries if you pack efficiently.
Which one fits you?
Best for
- Thru-hikers who carry a bear canister or winter gear
- Hikers who want one pack for trips of varying length
- Anyone who prefers to never run out of space
Not for
- Ultralight purists who want the lightest possible pack for short trips
- Hikers who already own a smaller volume pack and rarely carry bulky items
