Hiking is a fun activity that helps people feel connected to nature and is an excellent way to reset their batteries. When hiking, having the right backpack that carries your equipment and doesn’t slow you down is essential.
Unfortunately, selecting the right hiking backpack isn’t easy, as many brands claim to be the best for hiking. This article highlights the 12 best hiking packs to help you know what to look for when selecting a backpack for outdoor adventures.
Best Hiking Backpacks At A Glance
- Best Overall – Osprey Airscape UNLTD
- Ideal For Long Trips – Osprey Aether/Ariel
- Best Ultralight Backpack – Osprey Exos 58
- Best Small Backpack – Deuter Speed Lite 20
- Best Leather Backpack – Kodiak Kobuk
- Freshest Hiking Daypack – The Adventure Pack
- Best Long-term Backpack – Deuter Air Contact
- Best For Photographers – WANDRD PRVKE 31
- Best Backpack for Travelers on Short Trips -Nomatic Travel Backpack
Factors To Consider When Purchasing A Hiking Backpack
When choosing the best trekking backpack for hiking, comfort is the primary factor. Nevertheless, there are other factors you should bear in mind. For instance, if you’ll be carrying heavy equipment on your trip, you’ll need a hip belt that’ll distribute the weight to your waist so that you don’t strain your back.
With a well-padded and designed hip and back belt, you can travel hundreds of kilometres comfortably. A good hiking backpack should also feature a comfortable and thick hip belt and a ventilated back and be adjustable in several places. Other things to look out for include the following:
1. Cost
The more you spend on a hiking backpack, the better the quality. Quality trekking backpacks are expensive, and even though there are some great budget-friendly options in the market, it’s better to think of a hiking backpack as an investment. Spending a few extra coins guarantees you’ll purchase a bag that’ll last forever.
It’s worth spending extra cash and buying an Osprey trekking backpack as they come with a guarantee. This means that no matter what happens, the brand will replace and repair the bag.
Nevertheless, there are a few exceptions in the guarantee; the brand won’t replace the bag if damage occurs due to accidents, wear and tear, water, hard use, and airline mishaps. That said, the brand still offers the best guarantee on the market.
2. Weight
The ideal hiking backpack should be durable and tough while still being lightweight. You must be careful when purchasing an ultralight backpack, as some can’t stand the wear and tear of being thrown around. If durability is a primary concern for you, opt for a hiking daypack rather than an ultralight backpack.
3. Sturdiness
Opt for a tough, rough backpack that can withstand the outdoors without wear and tear. Most hiking backpacks are tough; ensure you also look for a water-resistant bag, so your equipment doesn’t get soaked when it rains.
As tough as your bag can be, using it constantly means it’ll get damaged; therefore, you should opt for a brand that offers a lifetime warranty.
4. Frames
The best hiking backpacks have rods built into them for support. Since the internal frame is inside the bag, they’re easy to carry. External frames make packs heavier—this is the last thing you want during a hiking trip, as it’ll slow you down.
5. Volume
This is one of the most important considerations when choosing a suitable hiking backpack. Even if you’re a light packer, you’ll most likely fill it with unnecessary stuff when carrying a big backpack. Opting for a small hiking backpack will aid you in economising space.
6. Material
If you’re an avid hiker, you’ll eventually face adverse weather conditions like snow, heat, or rain. Therefore, selecting a suitable fabric is essential when you’re planning to purchase a trekking backpack.
Resistant and light materials such as Dyneema are ideal as this material is water-resistant. While it’s more expensive than other materials like nylon, it’s worth it.
7. How It Makes You Look
The pricier the bag, the better fabrics (likely) it has. If you’re considering buying a quality hiking backpack, you should ensure that it looks great on you. There are various colour and style options; therefore, go for a bag that looks great on you.
The Best Backpacks For Hiking
1. Kodiak Kobuk
This backpack’s design is super functional and can handle a good amount of equipment. Aesthetically pleasing, robust, and practical, the Kodiak Kobuk bag is a triple threat whether you’re commuting to work or hiking in the mountains.
The backpack is loaded with convenient features that make it an excellent choice for hiking. Its roll-top lid allows one to use the storage capacity or buckle it for travelling. It has adequate storage for hiking equipment and features a hip belt that distributes weight.
The robust leather is water-resistant and can withstand heavy downpours. The bag is designed from pure water buffalo leather and has four exterior compartments, including a zipper and a separate shoe pocket.
The bag is available in three colours; dark walnut, midnight blue, and antique brown; therefore, you can choose a colour that best suits your preferences. The bag is padded and has adjustable straps making it versatile.
The bag has many other standout features which make it appealing, such as a large front pocket, a D-ring on every side for ID, luggage tags, a water bottle or carabiner, and a padded laptop sleeve.
The bag comes with a lifetime guarantee that covers workmanship and material defects. If you experience any problem with the product, the manufacturers can replace or repair it.
While leather isn’t the go-to for a hiking backpack, Kodiak Kobuk is undoubtedly the best leather hiking bag available. The bag’s main selling point is its versatility; it can be used for hiking, travelling, or work.
2. Osprey Airscape UNLTD
This is one of the two hiking backpacks designed by the world’s top bag brands as part of the UNLTD series. The Osprey Airscape has become one of the top hiking backpacks globally.
It’s a 68-litre bag designed using cutting-edge three-dimensional technology to create a supportive and comfy bag. The pack also offers ergonomic lumbar support to minimise load weight and enhance comfort.
The bag has many excellent features, the main one being the 8I top lid which brings a new dimension to the bag as it can convert into an 18I day bag. The pack also features a polycarbonate vacuum and a stainless steel frame which makes it rigid while delivering adequate torso ventilation.
The bag’s AutoLift system adjusts the harness and fits length simultaneously. The Airspace is made using high-quality nylon and polyethene materials that make it a lightweight yet solid bag with high abrasion resistance,
The bag is also designed using water-resistant materials; it can withstand heavy rains as it’s fitted with a nylon rain cover that works with the hip belt to offer a snug and stable bag.
This backpack is ideal for short hikes and mountain bike trips and doubles as a carry-on bag for airline travel.
This unique and innovative backpack is perfect for hiking; the only downside is its hefty price tag ($750) deters many customers. However, the Osprey Airspace is the right bag for you if you’re in the market for a durable, high-quality backpack.
3. Osprey Ariel/Aether
The Osprey brand makes high-quality hiking backpacks in the market, and Ariel (for women)/ Aether (for men) is no exception. The Ariel bag has a capacity of 55L while the Aether has a capacity of 65L; however, the plus versions of both bags can expand to 85L.
The bags have a rigid frame that combines with a luxurious and thick foam to create a suspension system that’s stable under load and maintains ventilation and comfort. All parts of the bag that touch the body are adjustable in various dimensions—the hip belt and shoulder straps are adjustable lengthwise, while torso length can be adjusted using the weber ladder locks.
The Ariel/Aether bag has the advantages of all Osprey backpacks; comfort, durability, and a great warranty making it an excellent pack. Since it’s a full-sized trekking backpack, it’s not ideal for overnight trips or short hikes.
Only carry this backpack when you’re on a proper trekking trip, and you must bring camping equipment. The bag has several compartments and pockets to keep things organised and a ventilated back panel to keep you cool during the summer.
4. Osprey Exos 58
The Exos 58 is a minimalist backpack that weighs 2.7 pounds. This bag features ultralight fabrics and can reduce weight by removing the top lid, compression, and sleeping pad straps.
Its wire alloy frame offers excellent support even when carrying heavy loads. It has a three-dimensional mesh that offers excellent air circulation and keeps cool even on warm trips. The sides have dual access side pockets where you can store water bottles and other equipment.
The shoulder straps also have a pouch where you can place your phone or snacks. The bag also features a removable lid for easy access. The lid has a zipper pocket at the bottom and top where you can put small items like snacks, headlamps, or a guidebook.
If you want to do away with the lid, Exos 58 has an in-built flap that you can buckle over the top for protection. The bag also comes with a lifetime warranty and has a generous amount of space that can fit two weeks’ worth of supplies, equipment, and clothes.
Even though this bag is smaller than most hiking backpacks, it’s suitable for individuals who like to hike lightly and quickly.
5. Stubble & Co Adventure Pack
Stubble and Co are among the most versatile backpacks in the market as they can be used for camping, hiking, or as an office bag. The brand is popular because it’s functional, durable, and tough.
The bag is designed using recycled plastic, giving the brand eco-friendly credibility. The bag has 16 compartments like grab handles, compression straps, a card pocket, a bottle pocket, a laptop, and a shoe compartment. There are adjustable sternum and waist straps for treks and a soft padded back panel.
The removable shoulder and sternum straps and waist belts are adjustable in the proper ways to personalise comfort based on the weight of the equipment you’re carrying. The bag has a clamshell design and hence looks like a suitcase one can carry on their back.
You can also transform the bag into a duffel bag, and at 42 litres, there’s adequate space for equipment and clothes. Since the bag is designed for adventure, it combines functionality and style, making hiking as easy as possible.
6. Deuter Air Contact
The Deuter Air Contact is a comfy bag designed for longer treks. Its waist belt and shoulder straps are ideal for carrying heavy equipment. Its ventilation system keeps one fresh and cools regardless of the weather.
The bag has a detachable lid that keeps all your equipment dry when it’s raining and resistant cargo pockets. This bag is ideal for long hiking trips or for individuals who like carrying a lot of gear.
The bag offers excellent value for money and is the best cost-effective bag in this category. The bag is sturdy and can take a beating on any adventure, and it has several detachable parts and adjustable features, which makes it versatile.
For shorter treks, you can remove 10Ls by removing the brain. The bottom of this bag is reinforced to prevent punctures or wear in the material. The bag has an internal pocket that separates equipment and valuable items.
The bag comes in two colours, black or purple, and it also comes with a lifetime warranty guaranteeing that customers are investing in a worthwhile product. The bag is well padded, ensuring that your hips and back don’t suffer the effects of heavy loads.
The bag has a hiking ice axe/pole loops to assist you in securing your equipment efficiently. It also has a hydration and suspension system that allows air to circulate, ensuring you’re well-ventilated when hiking.
This is the perfect bag for hiking enthusiasts, and even though it’s a bit heavy, its comfort and durability are unmatched.
7. REI Co-op Traverse Pack
This is an excellent daypack with features that one would typically find in a bag that’s 2 to 3 times its price. It’s designed with superior quality, and the zippers all work well. Its sturdy metal and thick cushioning make it more supportive and comfortable than most ultralight backpacks.
It has a fair amount of exterior storage, two zipper pockets on the brain, and zip pockets on the hip belt that can fit small items like a phone. The bag also has a shove-it pocket at the front designed using nylon with light stretch at the edges for preventing tear resistance.
It has enough give to accommodate heavier items like camp shoes and jackets. The bag has a simple and functional setup, and it’s easy to assemble and remove. The REI ba backpack also features tiny channels between padding that promote air circulation, ventilating you during hikes.
This bag is pretty affordable considering its quality, and it’s the best 35L bag and is ideal for day hikes and ultralight trekking weekends. If you’re looking for a light backpack for quick hikes, the REI Co-op is perfect for you.
8. Deuter Speed Lite
This is the perfect backpack for you if you’re looking for a bag for trekking over short distances. Made with endurance athletes in mind, it’s an excellent ultralight bag, weighing over 1 pound, and is among the best value light hiking bags on the market.
This 20L hiking backpack has four exterior pockets with adequate storage, a detachable hip belt, and a comfy back with a ventilation feature that keeps you cool and from getting sweaty.
The bag is comfortable, lightweight, and versatile and has two external pockets for water bottles. Inside, the bag has a roomy compartment and a sleeve. Its padded mesh panel and shoulder straps are spongy and comfortable.
With a 20L capacity, the Deuter Speed Lite bag is perfect for fast-paced activities. The bag has four exterior pockets, two front stretches, and two side pockets. There are various lashings and loops where you can attach ice axes, hiking poles, and helmets, adding to the bag’s versatility.
9. Nomatic Travel Bag
If you’re looking for a bag for an upcoming hiking trip and don’t want to carry around a cumbersome backpack, the Nomatic Travel bag is perfect for you. This bag is well-rounded and can be used for various purposes like travelling and hiking.
The bag has two large pockets for travel and book documents on one side. On the other side, the bag has extra pockets for storing small items like phones, chargers, and cords. The bag’s bottom is home to the shoe compartment, while the top has three additional pockets for storing water bottles, socks, and underwear.
One great feature of this bag is that it converts between a backpack and a duffel bag using the same straps. Switching between these two modes is easy, and adjusting the strap length determines how you can carry the bag.
The back of the bag is made using rubber material, meaning there’s limited air circulation. The bag is sturdy, and its canvas is thick, while the exterior is made using water-resistant rubber material.
The bag has adequate storage for day hike equipment like a first aid kit and a water bottle. Nevertheless, this bag isn’t ideal for long hikes or trekking in rugged areas as it’s too small.
Even though this bag isn’t designed for hiking, it can be adopted. Investing in another more suitable backpack is advisable for an intensive or longer hike.
10. Osprey Aether 85
The Aether 85 is a backpack that keeps heavy loads secure and is made of high-quality materials that make it durable. This bag performs best when it’s heavy; its shoulder straps are adequately padded, and the waist straps are adjustable; hence you can get the firm-but-comfy fit necessary for carrying heavy loads.
It also features a ventilation system that promotes air circulation preventing sweating during hikes. The ventilation system extends to the waist strap, enabling the bag to source air from a greater surface area, thus cooling you more efficiently.
The bag does an excellent job of maximising storage with its many external pockets. Many compression and vertical and lateral buckled straps offer superior compression. The body compartment is removable and becomes a day bag once it’s detached.
The bag’s frame is flexible enough to let the back twist and bend a bit to move efficiently and stay balanced. The bags are durable, and it’s difficult to rip or damage their main body. The bag is also water-resistant and can withstand heavy downpours.
You can fit all your hiking gear into this bag, and it’ll remain manageable and comfortable. The Aether 85 is the perfect backpack for long hiking trips.
11. The North Face Banchee
The North Face Banchee is a lightweight hiking bag and ideal for short hikes or those who want to go for long hikes with limited hiking equipment. This bag is smaller than most hiking bags reviewed in this article but has adequate storage capacity.
The backpack can carry up to 50 pounds; thus, you can carry smaller and heavier things comfortably. The bags come with a lifetime guarantee against any manufacturing and material defect. The bag has an adjustable sternum strap and two external tool keepers to hang tools, sticks, and tent poles.
The lid has a zippered pocket where you can store things. It also has a tiny mesh pocket to keep small hiking equipment. The lid pocket is big enough to carry helmets or other tiny things.
The main compartment isn’t partitioned; nevertheless, you can use outside straps on the bottom to keep a sleeping bag. Due to the dynamic curved design and lumbar support, the compartment appears curved. The main compartment also has a pocket where you can store your water bottle.
This bag has more than eight pockets meaning you can use it for outdoor excursions. The pockets make it easy to organise equipment and are big enough to fit water bottles.
12. Wandrd Prvke 31
This is the perfect backpack for photographers as its interior has superior, sleek compartments and features to hold photography equipment. This bag is the perfect blend of a cool modern style and functionality and is designed with high-quality materials.
Its exterior uses tough, water-resistant materials and protects against heavy downpours. It also has adequate inner padding, ensuring your
Equipment is well-protected.
The exterior is fitted with several loops that you can use for accessories. The bag has a modular segment on the interior that creates camera divides. The brain can be folded back so you can easily access your camera.
If you wish to turn it into the best hiking bag, pair Wandrd Prvke 31 with a design camera clip to carry your camera on your bag’s chest or hip strap. This isn’t the best hiking bag overall, but it’s ideal for avid photographers.
The brand doesn’t create gendered bags meaning that while this bag is perfect for men, that might not be the case for women.
13. Gregory Alpinisto 50 Pack
The Gregory Alpinisto is the perfect backpack for hikers who carry heavy equipment. The bag has a narrow profile that aligns the payload with a user’s centre of gravity and allows unrestricted arm movement. It has a supportive design made with aluminium stay and a plastic frame sheet that distributes weight to the hips.
You can also use the Gregory Alpinisto bag for fast-and-light hiking. You can remove its bivy pad, stay, frame sheet, and lid to reduce the bag’s weight. The bag’s hip belt is cut high hence you can integrate a harness, and the equipment loops are big and can hold a dozen screws.
The external pocket consists of a TPU panel to prevent points from penetrating the bag. When the panel is empty, it collapses to minimise clutter. The pack also has various removable components that are perfect for snow hikes.
How We Determined The Ideal Trekking Backpacks
In a perfect world, the best way to compare trekking backpacks would be to take them all on the same hike, but that’s not practical. This article is based on trying and testing the different backpacks at different locations and times over several years.
During testing, we looked at factors such as how comfortable the bag was, the ease of unpacking and packing, and how they performed in harsh weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you still have some questions about the best trekking bags, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to help you.
What’s the best size bag for a day trek?
A day-trek bag needs to be adequately big to carry your hiking gear but be comfortable and light enough to allow you to move efficiently and fast. The best backpack is designed using lightweight fabrics for a 30 to 40-litre capacity.
What qualities should trekking backpacks have?
To choose the best trekking bags, here are some factors you should consider:
1. Hike duration
2. The equipment you need to carry during your trek
3. Your torso’s width and length
What’s the best water-resistant trekking backpack?
A water-resistant bag is always a good idea; the best waterproof hiking back is the Sea Summit Hydraulic backpack.