What Is The Best Hiking Backpack 

A good hike requires having all the supplies and gear you need Backpacks are the most efficient way to comfortably carry your supplies during a hike But with all the hiking backpacks out there, how do you choose the best one for your needs

There are several things to consider in a hiking backpack The bag should be the correct size for your hiking adventure and enable you to access your gear easily It should fit well, be padded, durable, designed with pockets for organization, and be comfortable to carry 

A vast array of hiking backpacks can be found in the market to accommodate different treks in various locations Read on below to learn what you should be looking for in a hiking backpack

Choosing The Best Hiking Backpack

It’s always important to be at ease and comfortable throughout any hike, especially if you are going on challenging terrain or long treks

Thankfully, hiking backpacks these days come in an expansive array of well-designed, comfortable models with thoughtful features Many of the best hiking backpacks are lighter, more functional, and more practical than ever before However, it can be daunting to find the best backpack for hiking given the sheer number of choices out there

This guide can help you find the best one for your needs Read on below

Type Of Hike

Understanding the kind of hike you are going on should influence most of the other features to think about in a hiking backpack In fact, backpack manufacturers have designed different backpacks to accommodate specific types of excursions

Below is a list of 4 common categories of hikes and the backpacks that are best suited for them:

Day Hikes

Day hikes refer to short, easy treks that are completed within a few hours Popular day hiking destinations include the Bryce Canyon, Half Dome, the Highline Trail, and the South Kaibab Trail in the Grand Canyon

They are usually accessible to most people and can be as short as two hours or as long as six hours Day hikes are not technical or difficult, so a simple backpacking pack under 30L will suffice This capacity is enough to hold everything you need in the wilderness for a few hours: some snacks, a water bottle, an extra shirt, and a jacket

Long Distance Hiking

Long-distance hiking can mean going on trails as short as 40 miles, or as long as 200 miles Some examples of famous long-distance hikes include the Camino de Santiago in Spain, the Appalachian Trail, and the John Muir Trail These all involve hiking for several days or weeks, which requires the use of more gear, clothing, food, and supplies  

Summit Climbing

Summit climbing involves continuously ascending a mountain with the intention of reaching the summit Examples include Snowmass Mountain, Mount Hood, Denali, and Grand Teton The terrain and conditions vary, and the difficulty level will depend on the nature of the mountain

In some cases, summit climbing can be more treacherous, while in others, it can be similar to a relatively easy but long walk Since summit climbing can be more complex, you will be needing a larger hiking pack, around 36 to 50 liters

Thru Hiking

Thru hiking is a serious mountaineering expedition that takes the longest to complete Though only done by seasoned or advanced hikers, thru-hiking can even go on for as long as 24 months Hikers who go on this type of journey must be in excellent health for a reason: it will test you physically as well as mentally Destinations that are popular among thru-hikers include the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and the American Discovery Trail among many others

Knowing the type of hike and destination you’re going to will help you plan more efficiently You’ll understand what exactly you will need to survive and be comfortable in various hiking scenarios, and what you need out of a backpack to make that happen

Capacity

The capacity of your hiking backpack is one of the most important considerations It’s the single accessory you will have with you throughout a hike, no matter how short or long, that carries everything you need

A hiking backpack that’s too small will be an inconvenience for your trip, and packing it to the seams will cause it to break faster On the other hand, a backpack that’s too large will weigh you down and can make it a bit challenging to find what you need quickly

Backpack volume is usually measured in liters, though some brands use cubic inches The duration of your hike will usually have the biggest impact on the right capacity you should get, though the seasons also play a role Doing any type of hike during the winter or in the snow requires greater volume because of thick cold-weather gear you may need

You can follow the general guidelines below as recommendations for backpack carrying capacity:

Daypacks

The best day hiking backpack usually has a volume of around 20 to 30 liters These are the perfect sizes for short day hikes that are just a few hours long, though they are too small to accommodate overnight hikes or longer Daypacks are also a favorite of minimalist hikers, as they can be utilized even for full-day hikes

A day pack can fit a decent amount of supplies needed for a few hours, including snacks, a 2L water bottle, a light jacket, a headlamp, and a few emergency supplies

30-40 Liters

Backpacks with a volume of 30 to 40L are a sweet spot for many short outdoor activities The larger size is perfect for more supplies that ensure you are properly fueled and always prepared with everything you need This capacity can fit enough food for two or three meals, a camera, a headlamp, up to 4 liters of water, two light jackets, a first-aid kit, and a few other small extras

40-50 Liters

Longer hiking expeditions, or overnight trips in the winter, require a bigger pack: 40 to 50 liter backpack is recommended for these situations Heavy packers will also appreciate the added volume to bring what’s needed, and minimalist backpackers will be able to maximize this capacity for multi-week trips

Backpacks of this size are also widely used for thru hiking, backpacking trips, and summit hikes It can fit cooking equipment, up to a week’s worth of food, two jackets, a sleeping bag, extra clothes, footwear, a few tools, and a first aid kit

50-60 Liters

Backpacks of this size provide hikers with plenty of room to keep more equipment needed to stay comfortable during long hikes These are ideal for multi-day hikes as well as long-distance hikes in locations where you can refill hydration and food supplies It can also be used for camping hikes, providing extra space for a tent or hammock to sleep in

60-70 Liters

These bigger backpacks are well-suited for long trips and technical hikes If you know how to pack well, then you can even use 60 to 70L backpacks to bring along many home comforts along to your trip to make the experience much more comfortable, such as pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment

Additionally, backpacks of this size can accommodate almost two weeks’ worth of food, basic camping gear, thicker jackets, a change of clothes, a camera, and more If you are going on longer trips or carrying necessities for your team, you may need the space to pack tents, layers to stay warm, and enough food and supplies for everyone

Pack Access

Pack access design matters because it’s what determines if you are able to access your belongings inside the pack quickly and efficiently or not A majority of hiking backpacks and daypacks are designed with top-loading pack access, which you should know how to be able to use correctly

With top-loading packs, items you need the least should be stored on the bottom; this is where things you won’t need until the evening, such as your sleeping bag, spare clothes, and toiletries are placed Meanwhile, items you’ll need quick access to are stacked near the pack opening Some top-loading backpacks are also equipped with an extendable lid that lets you add a few more things here

Other types of pack access you may encounter in hiking bags include:

Front or clamshell opening: Also known as panel access, the main compartment is opened through a U-shaped zipper, much like traditional suitcases or luggage except on a backpack Once the panel is completely opened, it falls off to the side, making it easy to locate other items Clamshell opening backpacks are preferred by many light hikers, especially those who use their backpacks for international travel as well

Side access: Several daypacks provide a side access opening to the main compartment, usually with a clamshell design or top loading The side access opening is great because it lets you access items in the interior more quickly

Bottom access: There are hiking backpacks with a bottom access pocket that leads to the interior compartment, in addition to a clamshell or top-loading feature This is beneficial for backpackers who may need quick access to items stored at the bottom of the pack so that you don’t have to unpack other belongings on the top to get to it

Fit

The best hiking backpack will fit you properly Hiking backpacks with beautiful designs don't mean much if it's ill-fitting and makes you uncomfortable 

To get the right fit, you'll need a hiking backpack with the proper torso length appropriate for yours It should sit comfortably in the right places on your back as well as your front

It’s much easier to get a proper fit when you are shopping for backpacks in a store because you can try them on This can be tricky when buying online, though taking your measurements with the use of a simple measuring tape and with the help of a friend Always check the size chart before buying a backpack online, because brands may vary in the measurement of each size

Torso Length

Some backpack brands offer hiking backpacks in different sizes, running from extra small to large This is to accommodate individuals of various torso lengths as well as your gender

For example, petite female hikers are recommended to check out women-specific hiking backpacks since the torso lengths are smaller compared to unisex or men’s backpacks The shoulder straps, hip belts, and sternum straps of women’s hiking backpacks also offer more adjustability to fit the female body better

Using a hiking backpack with the appropriate torso length is important because it will affect your comfort and stability when you use a pack that’s too short or too long An adjustable suspension system, which is found in many of the best hiking backpacks, enables backpacks to properly fit individuals of different body shapes

Follow the guide below to get the correct measurements of your torso length

What You’ll Need

You’ll only need a standard soft measuring tape, which you may already have at home If you don’t, here are affordable recommendations from Amazon:

iBayam Soft Measuring TapeUnitedPrime Flexible Tape Measure

Instructions

The most effective way to measure your torso length will require the help of a friend, then follow the instructions below:

Stand up straight, then look down Use your hand to look for the bony bump behind your neck, in the area where your shoulders and neck meet This is called the C7 vertebra, which is where your torso beginsUse your hands to locate the top of your hip bones, known as the iliac crest, below the rib cage on each side With each hand, hold the side of the iliac crest; your index fingers should be in the front while your thumbs are in the back This area at the bottom is your torso measurementStand up straight again, then ask your friend to measure the distance between the imaginary line between your thumbs and the C7 This is your torso length

Hip Width

When using a backpack with a hip belt, much of the weight will be distributed from your shoulders to the hips Generally, a backpack whose torso length fits you properly will likely have the right hip width However, it helps to double-check just to be sure

You’ll also need a measuring tape to quickly get the right hip width measurement

Instructions

Follow the steps below to obtain your hip width:

Wrap the tape measure around the circumference of the iliac crest It will be slightly higher than your pant lineThis measurement is your hip width

Durability

Hiking backpacks are generally constructed to be durable However, just how durable a backpack is will depend on the quality of the materials that go into the pack’s construction The most durable hiking backpacks tend to have a higher price tag, usually over $100, but it’s worth it because of the technology and engineering that ensure they can withstand the abuse that comes with being exposed to the elements and the outdoors

High-performance hiking backpacks are a good investment It gives you peace of mind that the fabrics won’t tear down or the zippers will snag while you’re far from home Imagine the inconvenience, and potential dangers, of your backpack breaking down on you while you’re up in the cold mountains of Colorado

There are a few ways you can tell how durable a backpack is:

Materials

The fabrics used in a backpack are an important factor in durability A majority of hiking backpacks are constructed using nylon, or an iteration of nylon such as Ripstop nylon or Ballistic nylon Nylon is the material of choice for backpacking backpacks because it is superior in its strength yet is lightweight, water-repellent, and usually affordable

Polyester is also popular and widely used in hiking backpacks Similar to nylon, but slightly less durable and lightweight However, it isn’t water resistant

The rise of modern fabrics, such as Cordura and Dyneema, has been beneficial for the outdoor community These materials are created through state-of-the-art technology that results in extremely lightweight yet strong fabrics that is ideal for backpacking and hiking

Check for the Denier rating of a backpack before you buy it too Higher denier ratings mean that the fibers have been woven more densely together to create a much stronger fabric Denier ratings are indicated by a number followed by a D

A good Denier rating for a day pack should be at least 300D For long hikes that involve carrying over 30L, it’s best to use backpacks that are at least 400D For perspective, military-grade backpacks are typically made with at least 800D fabrics

You can expect to get what you pay for when it comes to materials and durability Established high-end backpack brands are renowned for using state-of-the-art fabrics that are built to withstand the wear and tear that comes with hiking, even if you use it several times over Reputable brands also back up the durability and quality of their products with a warranty

Keep in mind that users should also take care of their backpacks After coming home from a long hike, backpacks that are dirty and muddy should be cleaned based on the manufacturer’s care instructions Let it air dry and keep them in a closet

Zippers

Don’t underestimate the importance of high-quality zippers It means nothing if the pack is constructed with strong fabrics, yet the zipper is of poor quality and will break down quickly

Look for backpacks made with metal zippers that run smoothly and don’t snag Check that each side of the zipper is closed properly Outdoor backpack brands frequently use YKK zippers, which are known worldwide for their excellent durability and longevity

Hiking Backpack Straps

The quality and type of straps in a backpacking backpack will have a significant impact on your overall comfort Good straps provide protection, support, and balance: all of which are necessary for your success and safety on all kinds of hikes

Shoulder Straps

Most of your pack weight will be felt in its shoulder straps That’s why it’s important to choose a backpack with the best quality shoulder straps that you can afford Below are the qualities you should look for in shoulder straps:

Padding, to reduce pressure and pain in your shouldersAdjustable buckles, which enable you to adjust how tight or loose the straps areS-shaped ergonomic shoulder straps are more effective in distributing weight across your chest; this is recommended for carrying backpacks over 35L during a hike J-shaped or straight straps will do just fine for daypacks and hikes that are less than a day long

Though not essential for every hike, shoulder straps that are designed with mesh fabrics or EVA foam are great for ventilation They prevent sweat from accumulating around your shoulders

Sternum Strap

The sternum strap should fit mid-chest, connecting each of your shoulder straps When worn, sternum straps provide users with better stability and support without restricting movement This is useful especially when you are navigating narrow trails or rough terrain with a heavy backpack

They also prevent your backpack from moving to one side, which can put you off balance

Hip Belt

Hip belts are crucial in redistributing the pack weight off your shoulders and down to your hips Going on a difficult climb that will require you to use your upper body muscles requires the use of a hip belt; you will be able to move with better efficiency and they help to reduce soreness the next day too Padded hip belts are always best for more comfort

Load Lifter Straps

Load lifter straps are essential for multi-day and technical hikes These backpack straps are crucial for improving the pack’s overall fit, minimizing any soreness in your shoulders To adjust them, simply pull the load lifter straps to keep the backpack closer to your back

When load lifter straps are too loose, the backpack can sag behind you, which is less stable and can put you off balance However, keeping the load lifter straps on too tight can also affect balance and comfort Ideally, load lifter straps are tight enough that they result in a 45-degree angle between the shoulder straps and your backpack

Compression Straps

Compression straps help adjust backpack size through compression They should always be fastened tightly so that the backpack sits in a position that is as close to your back as possible Wearing your backpack hanging loose will place pressure on your shoulders, which can cause discomfort and soreness

Organization

The right pockets and compartments are essential for staying organized You always want to know where your GPS, camera, snacks, and spare jacket are when you need them

The type and number of pockets a hiking backpack should have are a personal preference Some believe it’s more important to have enough pockets, while others prefer to organize things themselves, perhaps with the use of packing cubes Hikers must also be efficient at packing: keeping things you need at night at the bottom of the pack, and daytime essentials in the front pockets or near the top

It’s always recommended to carefully review the pockets available If you want the best when it comes to organization, here are important pockets you should consider:

Front access pockets: Hiking backpacks usually have a front pocket that can be accessed with a buckle or zipper closure In some cases, these pockets offer more organization inside These are perfect for keeping stuff you may need quickly throughout the trail such as a map, flashlight, camera, headlamp, and snacks

Side stretch pockets: Elastic or mesh stretch side pockets are great for keeping your water bottles so you can easily hydrate Side pockets can also be used to keep a pair of slippers or a small umbrella

Hip belt pocket: Small hip pockets are ideal for keeping your lip balm, compass, money, and snacks If your backpack doesn’t have a front pocket, hipbelt pockets may be the next best thing for small essentials

Lid pockets: Some hiking backpacks are designed with lid pockets where you can keep flat or small items Here, you can store your gloves, beanie, map, or a small notebook

Framed or Frameless Backpack

Deciding on either a framed or frameless backpack will play a significant role in your overall comfort during a hike

Many of the best hiking backpack brands offer one or both, but it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each

Frameless Hiking Backpacks

A frameless hiking backpack is best suited for the adventurous backpacker These packs are extremely lightweight, enabling you to hike quickly and farther without having to carry heavy weight They usually have a foam back panel or similar material behind the backpack to make it more comfortable

Frameless backpacks are also a fantastic option for trail running, mountain climbing, and other outdoor activities

Some models come with a detachable frame, which you can install in case you need it

Keep in mind that the downside of frameless hiking backpacks is that they can be cumbersome to use when they are packed to the brim They can also cause a lot of discomfort during multi-day hikes Frameless hiking backpacks are ideal for hiking with smaller loads

Framed Hiking Backpacks

Internal and external frames make backpacks more stable and rigid and help ensure they stay in place when you wear the pack This is helpful when you are carrying a heavy load such as during multi-day hikes because the frames evenly distribute the weight across your back to reduce the risk of injury They are also well-ventilated compared to frameless packs, since the frames create a small distance between your back and the backpack

In the past, backpack frames were designed out of metal or wood One can only imagine how heavy those were to carry! Thankfully, modern backpacks now use much lighter materials, such as plastic or aluminum in frames

Backpack frames are either internal or external Internal frame backpacks are more common; they are more compact and easier to move around with These are recommended for going on technical hikes or navigating tight trails, since the presence of an external frame may be cumbersome

On the other hand, external-frame hiking backpacks are easily recognizable because of the frame outside the pack They are less popular than their internal counterparts, though that doesn’t mean they don’t have any purpose: external frame backpacks are more effective at distributing heavy loads, particularly for packs greater than 50L

Additionally, hikers can attach various gear to the frame, which saves you space inside the pack External frames are also effective and provide the best ventilation

Hydration

The best hiking backpack is always equipped with hydration Having access to water is crucial to your safety and survival in the wilderness Dehydration during long hikes can be dangerous and will increase your risk of hypothermia or sunstroke

Your backpack should either have a hydration reservoir or space for water bottles Backpacks with a hydration reservoir or bladder are also known as a hydration backpacks; these enable you to sip water through a tube without having to stop or unpack your bag In most cases, a compatible hydration reservoir needs to be purchased separately

Hydration backpacks come in an array of sizes to suit day hikers as well as on overnight trips

A majority of hikers prefer to bring their own water bottles, though These are stored in backpack side pockets, usually made out of stretchy fabric Always be sure you have enough water for the hike you are going on; some backcountry trails have refueling stations that enable hikers to refill water and food while extremely remote destinations typically don’t, so prepare and plan accordingly

As a general rule, it’s recommended to consume a liter of water for every two hours of hiking This is just a baseline, though it should be increased significantly if you are hiking in hot summer temperatures or on desert trails

Optional Features To Consider

Though not essential, some hikers may find the features below useful:

Raincover: If your backpack isn’t water repellent and there is a chance you could be exposed to rain during your hike, a rain cover will prevent your bag’s contents from water In some hiking backpacks, a rain cover is provided and stored in a separate pocket – usually at the bottom Alternatively, you can purchase a raincover separately; there are many good raincovers out there that are affordable

Sleeping bag compartment: A bigger hiking backpack that has been designed for multi-day trips may come with a sleeping bag compartment found at the bag’s bottom This is useful if you’re bringing a sleeping bag with you, though for other trips when you don’t, this compartment can also be used to keep lightweight gear

Camera-specific features: For many hikers, photography and the great outdoors are a match made in heaven But due to the fragility of cameras, lenses, and other photography gear, you’ll need a hiking backpack with camera-specific features appropriate for the photography gear you will be carrying Features, such as a dedicated padded camera compartment, storage for your tripod, and generous padding all throughout the pack are essential because they provide more protection for your pricey photography gear than a traditional hiking backpack  

Weatherproofing: Hiking is an activity that will expose you to all kinds of weather in the outdoors There’s nothing more inconvenient than getting caught in the rain with a backpack that’s been soaked – and all your valuables are in it Prevent this from happening by investing in a backpack whose fabric is weatherproof or waterproof

A backpack made from waterproof fabric is a non-negotiable if you expect to be exposed to rain and snow For short day hikes in sunny weather, a water-repellent backpack is recommended

Ventilation: Sweating is part of hiking However, a good ventilation system can reduce the discomfort associated with extreme sweating, especially when you are using a backpack with an internal frame Breathable mesh back panels are an effective way to reduce sweat by enhancing airflow and improving overall breathability

External attachment points: Depending on the type and length of your hike, you may be able to make use of external attachment points These are great because they save lots of space inside your backpack while allowing you to carry gear outside the pack Examples of hiking gear you can attach outside your backpack include trekking poles and ice axes

Price

How much you should spend on a hiking pack will depend on your budget and needs You can easily find a simple yet highly functional backpack with all the right features for a day hike or weekend trek for under a hundred dollars However, if you do more technical hiking which requires specialized gear, you can expect to spend $200 and up for a decent backpack

For those who are just getting started with hiking, there’s no need to break the bank with a pricey bag yet As you start to familiarize yourself with hiking, and the more you go on longer treks, you’ll discover your own personal needs in a backpack Upgrade your backpack and gear as needed

Reviews and Testing

When you’ve narrowed down your options for a hiking backpack, it pays to invest time reading up on reviews See what people who have tested the pack have to say about each model and feature; customer reviews can cover the pack’s pros and cons Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each design will help you efficiently find the pack that’s best suited to your hiking needs and lifestyle

Our Recommendations For The Best Hiking Backpack

Given the popularity of hiking backpacks for traveling and outdoor activities, it can be difficult to just pick one Save some time by reading our picks in each category below; click the product links for more information on each backpack Note: we may earn a small commission if you decide to buy any of these hiking backpacks 

Best Hiking Backpack For Men

REI Co-Op Flash 55 Men’s Backpack: REI is one of the most trusted brands for outdoor bags and gear The REI Co-Op Flash is terrific value for money, given all the features designed This men’s pack is available in a women’s design as well

This men’s hiking backpack is loaded with useful amenities It can comfortably carry up to 30 pounds, and the roll-top opening allows you to pack just about anything you need for a two or three-day hike There are several other pockets located in strategic areas of the pack, such as the shoulder straps, hipbelt, sides, and front for added storage

The Rei Co-Op Flash 55 also has a generous 575-liter pocket stashed on the top lid And unlike other packs, the water bottle pockets are in the hip belt so you can easily grab your drink when needed The breathable mesh front pocket provides ideal storage for light gear, such as a rain cover

This backpack also has many thoughtful features designed to increase comfort for the wearer Just be cautious of how you use this pack, as it may damage quickly when exposed to rough rocks The 420D nylon bottom prevents that damage to the pack’s bottom, though the body is only 100D nylon

Best Hiking Backpack For Women

N Nevo Rhino Internal Frame Hiking Backpack: Adjustable, customizable fit, superior comfort, and excellent organization: these are just some reasons why the N Nevo Rhino Internal Frame Hiking Backpack is so popular Suitable for men and women, it’s easy to see why this product has a loyal following among female hikers

This expandable hiking backpack comes in four capacities: 45, 60, 65, and 75 – all of which come with an extra 5 liters of storage Despite that, it’s such a lightweight backpack, ideal for backpacking, thru hiking, and multi-day hikes The backpack’s construction, made out of tough abrasion and tear-resistant nylon, protects your belongings effectively

The N Nevo Rhino Internal Frame Hiking Backpack can fit women of varying body shapes The sternum strap, ergonomic and padded shoulder pads, and hip belt provide you with all the support you need for hiking with heavy loads In addition, the wishbone waist pad is generously padded

A waterproof rain cover is provided, which you can access from the bottom pocket when needed Several pockets are found inside and outside of the pack to keep you organized at all times Overall, in our opinion this clearly the best hiking backpack for women, especially if you are on a budget

Osprey Aura AG65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack: Beginners, as well as seasoned women hikers, trust the Osprey Aura AG65 backpack, and for good reason It’s designed specifically to cater to the unique needs of female backpackers, and Osprey never disappoints

Available in an extra small and small version, even petite women will be able to find the right size and fit The Aura AG 65 has the reputation of being the most comfortable and best-fitting women’s hiking backpack, which is a tough feat to achieve given all the competition in the market However, Osprey has done it again thanks to Anti-Gravity suspension, adjustable harness, and hip belt, and side compression straps for stabilized loads

The Osprey Aura AG65 makes it easy to enjoy the sights while you’re out on your adventure You can keep your phone or camera in the zippered hip belt pocket, so you can easily take it out for photos The floating top lid is equipped with two zippered pockets, web attachment points, and a FlapJacket flap for extra protection 

The Osprey Aura may be expensive, but this is a wise investment if you take hiking seriously 

Best Camera Hiking Backpack

Mountainsmith Tanuck Camera Backpack: Keep your camera and photography gear safe as you hike with the Mountainsmith Tanuck Camera Backpack This heavy-duty backpack can withstand the rigors of the outdoors, and it has superior protection and organization for photography enthusiasts as well

Don’t be fooled: even if this backpack is a 40 liter camera and hiking pack, it can accommodate more than that This comes in handy, as anyone who hikes with heavy camera gear can tell you that more space is always useful There are two access points from where you can open the main compartment: one at the front, and the other at the top, which is extremely convenient

The Mountainsmith Tanuck Camera Backpack features an exterior laptop compartment for computers up to 17 inches Meanwhile, a hydration bladder can be found inside the back panel There are several more practical pockets all around the bag, including interior zipped pockets in the floating lid and front panel, to help secure those small accessories like your memory cards, cables, and other electronics

Additionally, there are three closed pockets for organizing all the necessities On each side, a spacious drawcord side pocket can hold large 40-ounce water bottles Photographers also find these pockets useful for keeping tripods, which can be secured with the D-rings found in the front panel and side panels

Mountainsmith also offers camera modules for added organization, though these have to be purchased separately Overall, the Mountainsmith Tanuck Camera Bag ticks all the boxes for adventurous photographers

Best Day Hiking Backpack

Burton Day Hiker 28L Backpack: Day trippers and mountaineers alike can appreciate all the incredible bells and whistles that are found in the Burton Day Hiker 28L Backpack This day pack is designed to provide as much comfort as possible so you can focus on enjoying your time in the outdoors

The tough outer fabric is water repellent, suitable for use during the winter or in the snow No need to worry about keeping your things dry because this pack does the job for you Users will always stay comfortable with the ergonomic shoulder strap plus the ergonomic and breathable back panel

The Burton Day Hiker 28L Backpack has a built-in laptop sleeve, which is also hydration compatible Keep your goggles or sunglasses safe in the fleece-lined pocket; there are other fantastic organizational features including a front stretch pocket, internal zippered mesh pocket, and multi-purpose side zippered water bottle pockets

Weighing just 16 lbs, this hiking backpack is lightweight and ultra-spacious, with high-performance features that technical hikers can benefit from Best of all, it’s an affordable day pack that works well for technical hikes too

Best Backpack For Thru Hiking

Osprey Atmos AG 65: Osprey is a top-tier outdoor gear brand that is synonymous with quality as well as durability With such a wide array of superb backpacks and equipment, it’s no wonder that adventurers all around the world trust Osprey And when it comes to thru hiking, the Osprey Atmos is highly recommended

It shares many similar features with another famous multi-day and thru-hiking pack, the Osprey Aether However, the Atmos is much lighter and is significantly more comfortable to wear for long hikes It’s also better suited for thru-hikes that last under a week, whereas the Aether is heavy-duty and ideal for multi-week thru-hikes

That said, the Osprey Atmos is huge in comfort It’s built with Anti-Gravity suspension so that the backpack always feels like you’re carrying less than you actually are Always get the perfect fit with the custom hip belt and adjustable harness

The internal hydration sleeve can store up to 3L of water, though you have to purchase the reservoir separately There are just a handful of pockets, though they have been carefully designed for maximum functionality; these include a front stretch mesh pocket, a detachable floating lid with built-in zippered pockets, and web attachment points

The Osprey Atmos comes in small, medium, and large versions This is a high-end hiking backpack, but it’s a fantastic investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts because it will last you several years of rugged use

Gregory Baltoro 95 Pro Backpacking Backpack: The Gregory Baltoro range boasts ultra-spacious capacities ranging from 65 to as much as 100L These packs are designed for rough adventures, hiking, and backcountry trips, no matter what the season

Given how much space the Gregory Baltoro 95 can fit, you’ll be sure to have storage for anything you need for extended backcountry trips The full-length aluminum frame sheet helps you carry your load more efficiently, while the custom-fit suspension provides much-needed comfort for its weight The Response A3 Pro Suspension system and adjustable shoulder harness plus 3D air hipbelts are excellent features that are designed to get rid of any hot spots while reducing pressure

Any hiker will appreciate the breathable back panel, built with multi-density foam for added airflow and support There are many little extras that come in handy too, such as the fitted detachable rain cover, and a removable hydration sleeve that doubles as a nifty day pack Keep your valuables secure even when it’s raining, thanks to the WeatherShield hipbelt pocket that uses a water-resistant YKK zipper

Other useful features include the sunglass pocket located on the shoulder harness, stretch water bottle pockets on each side, several organizational pockets, and attachment loops for ice axes or trekking poles Gregory has thought of everything you need in this heavy-duty pack: it weighs 638 lbs, but all the other features ensure you feel as little of the pack’s weight as possible

Conclusion

Don’t leave home without the best hiking backpack for your needs Once you’re in the great outdoors, you’ll realize how valuable and important it is to invest in the right backpack This article provides you with all the information you need to know to locate a hiking backpack aligned with your needs