Arc Haul Ultra 70L vs 60L: Which Pack Size Fits?
By Zpacks | Level Up Your Next Adventure | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Arc Haul Ultra 70L and 60L backpacks to find the right ultralight capacity for your thru-hike or week-long trip. Learn the trade-offs and fit guidance.
Quick answer
The Arc Haul Ultra 70L and 60L share the same frame and materials, so the real choice comes down to how much volume you need. The 70L rolls down when not full, but the 60L saves a bit of weight and is more compact for trips under a week.
Volume trade-off: bigger doesn't always mean heavier
Both packs use the same Ultra 100X fabric and Arc Frame, so durability and carry feel are identical. The 70L version adds about 10 liters of capacity but only a few ounces of weight. When you don't fill it, the top rolls down, so you aren't carrying dead space.
The 60L is a better fit for trips where you know your gear fits in that range. For thru-hikers who might carry extra food or water between long resupplies, the 70L provides a safety margin without penalty.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Capacity vs. weight: The 70L adds 10L of volume for a minimal weight increase. If you often carry extra gear or food, the 70L gives you room without a major penalty.
- Roll-top flexibility: Both packs use a roll-top closure. The 70L can be compressed to a smaller load, but the 60L starts with a smaller packed size when full.
- Trip duration fit: For trips under a week with standard gear, the 60L usually fits. For longer hauls, winter gear, or shared loads, the 70L provides essential extra space. Measure your current gear volume before deciding. A trash bag test can confirm which size matches your typical load.
Product facts
- Arc Haul Ultra 70L Backpack: The Arc Haul Ultra 70L is designed for comfort and durability at an unbeatable weight, made from Ultra 100X material, and rolls down if not filled up. You get the flexibility of a large volume pack without carrying empty space, making it practical for variable load sizes.
Arc Haul Ultra 70L Backpack - Arc Haul Ultra 60L Backpack: The Arc Haul Ultra 60L is built for long days between resupply, with the same Ultra 100X material and Arc Frame, and is praised by thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail. It offers a more compact profile for typical week-long trips while still providing ample room for gear and food.
Arc Haul Ultra 60L Backpack
Which pack fits you?
Best for
- Thru-hikers who want a single pack for varied resupply lengths
- Hikers who carry extra gear for winter or group trips
Not for
- Ultralight hikers who prioritize the lightest possible pack for short trips
- Anyone whose gear fits comfortably in a 60L and wants the most compact profile
