How to choose the best hiking backpack
When heading out on a hike, you’ll need a reliable backpack for all your necessities. It’s vital to choose a pack to accommodate your gear while offering a comfortable fit on your shoulders, back and hips.
You wouldn’t want to use a 70-liter backpack for a quick day hike, which is why we’ve broken down our hiking backpack categories based on capacity and intended purpose. Keep reading to view our top picks in each category so you can hit the trail as soon as possible.
Types of backpacks
Hiking backpacks come in a wide variety of sizes, materials, colors and frame types. It can be challenging to know which model will work best for you. Once you know whether you’ll be doing more day hikes or backpacking trips, you can narrow down the type of backpack you’ll need. We’ll examine the four main types of backpacks: daypacks, overnight/weekend packs, multi-day packs, and extended trip packs.
Hiking daypacks
For single-day hikes, a pack with a capacity of 20-30 liters should fit just right. These packs are typically not big enough to hold a tent or sleeping bag but can easily store food, water, extra clothing and first aid kits.
The 20-liter Speedlite is a durable, lightweight hiking companion compatible with hydration bladders up to 3 liters. The padded shoulder straps add extra support, while the side compression straps keep all your contents compact and secure while on the trail.
The North Face Borealis 28L Backpack
The Borealis is a classic daypack that is just as useful in the woods as it is in the city. If you’re a hiker looking for a pack that you can also use for travel, work and school, this is a perfect crossover option.
Overnight hiking backpacks
An ideal pack for a night or two out in the woods is 30-50 liters. However, with the rising popularity of ultralight backpacking, some hikers may be able to use a pack of this size for longer trips.
A 36-liter capacity may not seem like a ton of space, but you’ll be surprised with how much you can fit into this Osprey bag, especially with the bottom zip sleeping bag compartment. Complete with an integrated rain cover, you won’t have to worry about the pack getting soaked through when the weather turns.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly overnight option, you’ll want to check out this 40-liter pack. Built using water-resistant materials, this pack has exterior straps that can securely hold a sleeping bag or tent and includes hip belt pockets for quick access to your phone, multitool or snacks.
Diamond Candy 40L Hiking Backpack
You don’t have to break the bank to find a functional overnight bag. The 40L pack from Diamond Candy keeps your contents dry in wet conditions and your body comfortable with adjustable straps and a reinforced cushioned back panel.
Multi-day hiking backpacks
A multi-day hike is perfect for 50-70 liter packs, which are large enough to hold all the essential gear, extra clothing, food and accessories.
A durable budget option suitable for both men and women, this 50-liter pack can easily fit the necessary items for a three or four-day backpacking trip. You can use the side compression straps to hold your packed tent in place when you want to save interior space for a bear canister, jackets or maybe even a camp chair.
TETON Sports Scout 3400 55L Backpack
TETON Sports is one of the most affordable outdoor brands that still offers high-quality products. Its fully adjustable 55-liter Scout pack is excellent for longer treks in the wilderness. The sleeping bag compartment lets you access your sleeping bag with ease, and the front bungee straps are ideal for holding a jacket or poncho in place when not in use.
If you’ve been on a backpacking trip recently, you’ve probably seen several hikers sporting this popular model from Osprey. One of the best overall multi-day and thru-hiking packs, the Anti-Gravity suspension system makes even the heaviest loads feel light and manageable.
Extended trip backpacks
Packs with a capacity of 70 liters or greater are designed for extended wilderness stays. These packs are also great for family or group backpacking trips.
With an empty weight under 5 pounds, this large backpacking pack can comfortably carry loads up to 65 pounds. With strategically placed compression straps, exterior gear loops and storage compartments, you’ll have all the features you’ll need for a successful hike.
TETON Sports Grand5500 90L Backpack
This 90-liter pack has more than enough space to hold everything you need to enjoy the outdoors. This model has several unique features, such as a detachable storage pouch and a three-in-one poncho/rainfly/tarp combo.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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