Best Backpacking Packs: Fitting, Features and Recommendations

I love going on day hikes, but nothing beats spending a couple of nights camping in the backcountry. On a crisp spring weekend, spending a night or two in the bush with friends is a great way of de-stressing after a tough week at work. To cater for these longer hikes I needed a larger backpack than my usual hiking daypack. If you’re looking for some of the best hiking backpacks then check out our buying guide below as well as reviews of our top picks.

Quick Look: the Best Hiking Backpacks on the List:

• Osprey Atmos 65: Our top pick for features, comfort, and price
• Osprey Aether 60: comes in at a very close second
• Mountaintop Outdoor Sport: Great for a low-budget buy
• Kelty Coyote 60: Good combination of features at an excellent price point

Below, you’ll find our detailed reviews and a buyer’s guide, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.

Best Hiking Backpacks Reviewed

We’ve had a look at plenty of backpacks to find the ones best suited for a few days in the backcountry. Here are the reviews of our favorites.

TETON Sports Explorer 4000

We like this hiking backpack because it has plenty of pockets, straps, pouches, and loops.

This makes it easy to take along all those extra necessities that make for a comfortable 3 day, hiking and camping experience.

The length is adjustable to accommodate hikers with a height of between 5 feet 1 inch and 6 feet 4 inches.

This backpacking backpack has some cool design features to give you a comfortable fit:

You can bend the removable stays to tailor them to the shape of your back. Combined with the four multi-directional compression straps; the load lifter straps and the – inch thick padded, fully-adjustable shoulder straps you’ll walk all day in comfort.

In terms of what you get for the price, this pack is a quality, good value for money option.

• Capacity: 65 liter
• Weight: 5 lbs
• Size: 32 X 18 X 12 inches

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

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Osprey Aether 60

Osprey is a firm favorite with most hikers and if you’re looking for a medium-weight hiking backpack then this may be the one for you.

Strap on your trekking poles (or ice axe!) on the outside. With both dual upper-side and dual front compression straps, the streamlined, no-fuss design makes it well-suited to rugged hiking.

Also, the LightWire peripheral frame transfers the load onto the hips making the pack extremely comfortable.

With its scaled-down dimensions, you get a lower-profile backpack that is still capable of carrying all your essentials.

This pack also comes with an external hydration sleeve which makes it easier to do a refill while also protecting the contents of your pack from spillage.

• Capacity: 60 liter
• Weight: 4.8lbs
• Size: 32 X 18 X 8 inches

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

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Osprey Atmos 65 AG

This premium quality hiking backpack comes in at just over 4.5 pounds.

It boasts a suspension system that makes for great for both carrying comfort and fantastic ventilation.

Moreover, the back panel consists of lightweight, seamless mesh that extends from the hips to the top of the back panel.

This feature provides great through-flow of air, unrestricted movement, and a great fit.

An especially neat feature is the handy trekking pole attachment system which allows you to quickly detach and reattach trekking poles in response to changes in the terrain.

An added bonus is the flap jacket, which is there to protect your outdoor gear if you decide to remove the floating top lid.

See more: Osprey Aether vs Osprey Atmos

• Capacity: 65 liter
• Weight: 4.67lbs
• Size: 33 X 15 X 15 inches

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

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Mountaintop 70L

If you’re new to hiking and backpacking, then this is a great entry-level pack at an affordable price.

Made from durable ripstop material, this backpacking pack can be converted from 70 to 80 liter offering a decent amount of packing space.

The adjustable frame has 8 length settings making it easy to accommodate varying body lengths. That being said, if you’re fairly short or over 6 feet tall, then the range of adjustment won’t cater to you.

This backpacking backpack offers moderate to good comfort but don’t pack it too heavy because the padding compresses a little easier than we’d like.

The Mountaintop is a good value-for-money pack that will do the job until you decide you love hiking and want to upgrade.

• Capacity: 70 liter
• Weight: 4.4 lbs
• Size: 29.99 x 13 x 10.2 inches

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

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Gregory Mountain Products Baltoro 65

If you’re looking for a high-performance hiking pack and don’t mind paying a little more, then this is a good option.

With a compact, streamlined body size, this backpacking backpack offers the performance experienced hikers demand.

Gregory’s suspension technology offers great load balancing, in conjunction with a customizable lumbar insert and ergonomically designed foam harness, to give you the perfect fit.

It has the classic top-load design, but a front zipper ensures super easy access to the main body of the hiking pack.

We like the abundance of pockets and useful gear loops, including a handy waterproof pocket in the hipbelt for smartphones and other hiking gadgets.

Additionally, the removable divider between the sleeping bag compartment and the main body of the bag keeps your sleeping bag clean and dry.

The detachable daypack is ideal for a short excursion from camp and it doubles as a water bladder holder.

• Capacity: 65 liter
• Weight: 5.5lbs
• Size: 25.2 X 15 X 9.5 inches

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

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Deuter Aircontact Lite 65 + 10

This is a one-size-fits-all best hiking backpack that you can adjust to your torso length. Its aluminum X-frame makes it one of the lighter packs in this capacity class.

We like the durability of this pack. The attractive, durable material means it will last ages and look good long after your first hike.

Soft-edged, ergonomically-shaped shoulder straps, two-layer foam support for the lumbar area, and a multi-layer hip belt ensure this hiking pack sits comfortably.

The hip strap has a zippered pocket for easy access to your gadgets while keeping them secure.

The hiking pack also features a variety of gear loops for a helmet, ice axe, etc. as well as spacious side pockets that stretch for added room.

• Capacity: 65 liter (+10)
• Weight: 4.6lbs
• Size: 34 X 14 X 13 inches

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

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Kelty Coyote 65L Backpack

This is a good choice if you are an experienced hiker looking for a value-for-money option.

Made from durable 420-denier polyester material, it can take the knocks and then some.

Kelty’s innovative PerfectFIT suspension offers great versatility and comfort with an on-body adjustment system. So no need to take the pack off to get the size just right. The internal frame can be shaped to the unique curve of your back.

These features, combined with the dual-density hip support and well-padded shoulders make for a comfortable hike.

Side compression, stabilizing, load-lifter straps, and a ventilating back panel keep your load centered for comfort.

Kelty Coyote is now available in a 65-liter version too.

• Capacity: 65/80 liter
• Weight: 5.9lbs
• Size: 16 x 34 x 16.5 inches

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

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High Sierra Titan 70

If you’re new to hiking or you’re on a serious budget, then these hiking backpacks may be a good option.

Fully adjustable to accommodate different body lengths, this roomy comfortable pack has all the internal space, pockets, and attachment points you need.

The ergonomically shaped shoulder harness and adjustable load lifters are designed to give you a comfortable fit.

Lower front zipper allows for easy alternate access to the main compartment.

Also, you can separate the lower compartment from the main one, which then serves as sleeping bag storage.

• Capacity: 70 liters
• Weight: 4lbs
• Size: 14.25 X 8.75 X 32 inches

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

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Arcteryx Alpha AR 55

If you need absolute comfort on multi-day hikes over tricky terrain, combined with durability and great features then this one might be for you. The Arc’teryx Alpha AR 55 is designed for climbing alpine environments, so you can move efficiently, protect, and carry your gear.

The shoulder straps are anatomically shaped and have an integrated air-permeable, breathable foam.

We loved the expandable and removable top lid to store your phone and small items. It has a map compartment and two zippered compartments.

On the other hand, the full-length Kangaroo pocket provides quick access to gear you need in a hurry.

A great feature is the pivoting hip belt which transfers the backpacking backpack weight from your shoulders to your hips.

• Best for: Climbing
• Capacity: 55 liter
• Weight: 2.95lbs
• Size: 24.65 x 16.81 x 5.47 inches

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

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Choosing Your Best Hiking Backpack

Capacity

Being able to hold more gear doesn’t necessarily make one backpacking backpack better than the other.

If you want the one of best backpacks for hikers, then it comes down to how long you’re heading out for, who’s using it, and your preferred backpacking style.

Basically, this will determine the equipment you’ll need to pack and give you a better idea of the size and features you will need.

Don’t choose a hiking backpack and then see what you can fit (cram) into it.

Gear first – backpack second

A capacity of around 60-65 liters is fine for 2-3 nights of comfortable camping or a thru-hike if you are streamlined.

While some essentials you’ll take on both longer and shorter hikes, the quantity of food, toiletries and some other gear will vary according to trip length.

First, you need to ask yourself: What backpacking pack size do I need??.

If you’re going on a weekend trip, then you could get away with as little as 35-50 liters of hiking backpack capacity.

But, for multi-day hikes of 3 to 5 days, you’ll need to aim around the 50-80 liter mark. Going on a long trip? For 6 days or more, you’ll need a larger hiking backpack of 70 liters or more.

If you are only off for a day hike, check out: Best Daypacks for Hiking

Wondering if the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Daypack is the right companion for your outdoor escapades? Dive into our detailed review to see how it fared on the rugged paths of an active volcano.

Secondly, if you’re flying to your hiking trail, bear in mind that the overhead baggage compartment on US airlines is a standard size of 22″ x 14″ x 9.”

Who Is Using the Best Hiking Backpack?

There’s a good reason why you get men’s, women’s, and youth backpacks. We’re all built differently and subtle changes in the design can make a big difference in comfort.

Furthermore, take into account the size of your hips, height, waist, and overall frame when choosing the best backpack for you. We cover how to get the right fit and frame size in more detail below.

Backpacking Style

What’s your backpacking style?

Are you trying to set a personal best each day with how many miles you cover?

Are you hitting the trail hard and fast or do you prefer setting up camp and chilling?

Or, maybe you’re somewhere in the middle.

If you’re an ultralight backpacker, then you’ll want the lightest, smallest hiking backpack for the bare essentials while you crush miles.

If you’re more of the “stop and smell the roses” kind of destination backpacker, you may prefer a slower pace and a bigger pack.

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Essential Best Hiking Backpacks Features

Carrying a load of gear in a backpack isn’t that hard. Carrying it comfortably? Now that’s a more significant challenge. These are some essential features you’re going to want in your backpack.

Ventilation

You may have the latest tech in breathable hiking clothing, but the parts that are up against the pack will still get hot and sticky.

Ventilation at the back panel and hips is crucial if you want to stay cool. You want it to fit nicely and snug up against your body for comfort, with some gaps for airflow.

Some packs have offset foam profiles and mesh panels in the back and hip areas offering a measure of ventilation. For the best backpack ventilation, go for a full-length mesh panel covering the entire back and the hip-belt regions.

Some manufacturers use hollow chamber foam in the back and hip panels, and as a result that gives you a pump effect with each movement to help ventilation.

Padding & Support

If the padding and lumbar support are done right, it will shift most weight onto your hips.

This results in a lot less weight on your shoulders and less stress on your lower back.

For heavier packs, you’ll want a thicker, more dense foam in the padding so that you get firm support. Unfortunately, more padding means more weight.

If you’re a lightweight backpacker, you can get away with softer, more compressible padding as long as you don’t overload the pack.

Suspension Design & Support

Some of the better internal-frame backpacks have support systems that go beyond just the hip belt and padding.

Manufacturers like Osprey have suspension designs with back panels, stays, frames, harnesses, hip belts, and load lifters that all work in unison.

The result is that the weight of the backpacking backpack is targeted at the right parts of your body while allowing for a full range of natural motion.

Osprey boldly calls their suspension design Anti-Gravity.

Sadly, we don’t yet have self-carrying packs but a good suspension design can feel pounds lighter than it actually is!

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Backpack Material

In the past, cotton canvas was the go-to fabric. Nowadays, modern backpacks are mostly made from Nylon and Polyester.

The different thicknesses of the fabrics or how they’re woven all impact the durability and waterproofing they’re going to deliver. These are a few of the materials you’re likely to see:

Ripstop

This is a fabric made up of primarily thin nylon threads with thicker nylon threads at regular intervals. Indeed, this prevents the fabric from unraveling and ripping if it gets punctured. It’s not great for spots that experience many abrasions as the thick and thin fabrics wear at different rates.

Ballistic Nylon

Material of nylon fibers woven into a special kind of weave pattern called a “ballistic weave”. Besides being fairly waterproof, it’s strong and has high abrasion resistance. It’s generally used to make things like laptop bags, but you’ll sometimes see it being used in hiking backpacks. Ballistic nylon is always black and the high denier makes it pretty heavy.

Cordura

This is a brand of a range of Nylon fabrics that incorporates a variety of different technologies. It’s very durable and waterproof. Also, the nylon fibers in Cordura are texturized, as opposed to the smooth filaments in ballistic nylon. This gives the fabric superior abrasion resistance. In general, Cordura is a premium fabric that you’ll find in higher-end backpacks.

Kodra

This is another brand of Nylon-based fabrics. It’s pretty much exactly the same as Cordura but it’s made by a Korean company called Kodra. Both have great durability and waterproof performance.

Polyester

Polyester isn’t as tough as nylon, and it’s heavier too. It absorbs less water than natural fabrics, but it’s not as waterproof as nylon or polypropylene. But it is cheap, so you’ll often find that lower-end, budget hiking backpacks are made from Polyester. If you want a backpacking backpack that’s going to last, then give Polyester a miss.

Polypropylene

This polymer is used to make a range of fabrics. It’s cheap, insulates well, and is waterproof. The problem is that it’s not very durable and degrades when exposed to UV light. Some hiking backpacks will use it as a liner on the inside.

Weight

Weight is always an issue when backpacking. It’s not just the weight of the hiking backpack that is important but also how it is distributed. Roughly 65-80% of the weight should fall on your hips.

The rest of the weight will be spread out along the front and top of your shoulder strap. This is why you want to make sure your pack not only fits around your hips but also wraps around your shoulders nicely.

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Compartments & Pockets

The sleeves, compartments, and pockets on your backpacking backpack will allow for a more even distribution of your pack weight and allow for quick access without digging around through all your stuff.

Even though you prefer a more simple layout with just a single main compartment, consider one with separate storage for your phone, water bottle, and snacks.

Main Compartment – This is the most critical and largest space in your hiking backpack. Notably, it needs to be big enough to hold your tent, stove, food, and the majority of the rest of your gear.

Most backpacking backpacks will provide access from the top, but it’s a good idea to get one that also allows access at the front of the pack. Likewise, some hiking daypacks will have a removable divider for this compartment, which adds greater storage versatility.

Sleeping Bag Compartment – Normally situated at the bottom in a space separate from the primary storage.

Top Lid: Keeps the rain from getting into the main compartment. Also, an excellent spot to store a poncho for quick access when the clouds gather.

Front Pockets *.

Side Sleeves and Pockets: These combine nicely with side compression straps to hold tent poles, trekking poles, or your laundry. Bigger sleeves can also hold water bottles.

Hip Belt Pockets– Nice for keeping small essentials within easy reach.

Additional Features Best Hiking Backpacks

While these may not necessarily be considered essential hiking backpack features, here are some “nice to haves” that can actually make a difference:

Water bottle holders

Carrying your best water bottles for hiking, all day isn’t great and opening your pack every time you want a drink isn’t either.

Furthermore, a loop or mesh holster allows for easy access to your water bottles without the hassle. Another good alternative is to have a loop around the neck of your water bottle that you can clip onto a carabiner.

Hydration Reservoir & Hydration Ports

Ensure that your backpack has a sleeve for your hydration reservoir bladder and ports to route the tube through.

Some backpacks have an integrated hydration bladder, though I prefer to choose my own.

Additional Waterproofing

It may have said “waterproof” on the label, but you’re bound to get some water into your pack when it starts to pour down.

An external rain cover is essential for keeping your gear dry in heavy rain. Most decent brands will supply a rain cover, often stowed in a compartment at the bottom for easy access when the wet weather sets in.

Having a waterproof lining on the inside of your pack is a good option. But if in doubt, it’s always best to line your backpack with a waterproof dry bag or at least, a black garbage bag.

Trekking Pole & Ice Axe Loops

Trekking poles are great for support and balance but horrible to stash when you don’t need them. Cinch-able loops on the back of your hiking pack make for an easy way to carry your poles or ice axe.

Straps for Bed Roll/Sleeping Pad

Bedding down on a comfy sleeping pad at night is a luxury you don’t want to skimp on. There’s no way it’s going to fit inside your pack, so make sure there are sleeping pad straps.

Removable Daypack/Top Lid

If you enjoy setting up camp and then doing shorter excursions to explore, then a removable top lid that doubles as a daypack is great. This gives you the extra stowage space with the convenience of a small pack when you want it.

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A Note on Pack Liners

If you’re carrying things in your travel backpack that you can’t risk getting wet then a pack liner is a worthwhile investment.

Even if cell phones and cameras don’t mix well with water, trying to sleep in a wet sleeping bag isn’t great either.

A pack cover may keep the rain off but it traps condensation that can make the inside of your pack pretty wet.

Even if you’re not expecting wet weather a leaky water bottle or hydration bladder failure can ruin your day if those critical items aren’t protected.

A heavy-duty plastic bag will do the job in a pinch, but a purpose-packed pack liner will be more durable and offer longer-term protection.

Backpack Attachment Points

Just because your pack is packed to the brim on the inside doesn’t mean it can’t hold more gear. Having external attachment points externally is great for attaching bulky items, or those that you want quick access to.

Some packs have tie-out loops that allow you to set up your own custom cord attachment system. These can be handy if you’re looking for a good spot to secure a backpacking solar panel to charge your electronics while hiking.

What’s more some of the bigger expedition packs have rear loading straps. These are great for securing your tent or top-rated sleeping bag at the bottom. A word of warning, though: If the gear is stowed too low down it can end up bumping you on the back of your thighs, or compromising the balance of the load.

A lot of weekend backpacks have compression straps to help reduce the volume of the pack. Some of these are reversible so you can wrap around and clip at the rear of the day pack. This is great for carrying snowshoes or a sleeping pad externally.

Backpack Versatility

If you go on both short and longer multi-day hikes, then buying a pack that caters to a range of scenarios can save you from buying two.

A pack with well-designed straps for compression will allow for a lightly packed bag to still sit firmly up against key support areas of your body.

If the pack offers good expansion, you’ll also have that extra space you need on a multi-day hike.

Having a detachable daypack is great for short excursions from camp or you could leave the rest of the pack at home if you’re just heading out for a few hours.

Your backpack doesn’t just have to be for hiking. While packing capacity is essential, if you choose a pack that isn’t too large, it could work well if you’re heading into the city for the day. Likewise, you can use it as a carry-on for flying.

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How to Fit a Backpack

This is vitally important to both comfort and function.

If the pack is too large or too small, then the weight will not be evenly distributed, putting pressure on different parts of your body. This can quickly make walking uncomfortable.

Notably, the key aspects related to fit are frame size and hip size.

Frame Size

Torso length, not your overall height, determines whether you take a small, medium, or large frame.

For example, a small may cover 16-19 inches, a medium may fit a torso of 18-21 inches, and a large may best fit a torso of 20-23 inches. (This varies by manufacturer, so make sure you double-check before you buy.)

Some packs have an adjustable torso length. Each brand’s method of measuring your torso and fitting their packs is unique so it might be wise to visit a brick-and-mortar store to get measured by a sales associate with access to each brand’s specific chart and measuring device.

The standard way of measuring your torso will give you a good idea though.

It’s helpful to have a friend to help you with this since you’ll be measuring your back.

To correctly find out your torso length:

• Locate your iliac crest by locating the top of your hip bone and following it around to the middle of your back
• Find your C7 vertebrae which is the bone that sticks out at the back of your neck when you look downwards
• Standing straight up, take the measurement from that C7 bone to the point on your spine level with your iliac crest.

This is your torso measurement. Use this measurement to choose a pack size.

This video helps to explain the correct fitting of a backpack:

Hip Size

Look for a pack with an interchangeable hip belt if possible.

This will allow you to first choose the frame size that suits you, and then match it with a hip belt that fits properly. In fact, most backpacks allow for a very wide range of waist sizes. 80% of the weight rests on your hips.

Particularly, you don’t want that weight shifting onto your shoulders, so a snug fit around the hips is important.

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Backpack Straps

Your backpack straps make a big difference to the comfort of your backpack. These are the ones you should look out for:

• Suspension Load Lifter Straps: These straps, when tightened correctly, connect the top of the straps on the shoulders, to the top of the pack preventing the pack from leaning away from your back. Ideally, they should be positioned at a 45-degree angle.
• Sternum Strap: The sternum strap clips across the chest, connecting both shoulder straps in the front. As a result, this enhances stability. But on some packs, the height of this strap can be adjusted.
• Compression: These straps tighten along the sides of a pack. When a pack is full, it should be extended and cinched down when the pack is almost empty. This way the pack will always be balanced, even if it’s not full.
• Hip Belt Stabilizer: This strap is made to tighten around the belt, it improves balance and comfort.

Internal or External Frame?

Frame Backpacks come with either an internal or external frame.

The more modern packs have internal frames, allowing them to be carried closer to the body.

These are better suited for active hikes (such as scrambling), and carrying lighter loads. Look for one that incorporates a tensioned mesh or channel to allow cool air to get to your back.

External Frame packs are more old-school, but some people still like them because they manage heavier loads and allow for good airflow to your back which means less sweating.

Also, for a weekend hike, you’re going to want to go for an internal frame backpack.

Quick pack-fitting pointers

• Your torso should be within the backpack’s torso range
• Check the shoulder strap; it should fit snugly to the back of your shoulders
• The load lifter straps should sit at a 45 angle when the pack is fitted
• Make sure the shoulder strap padding sits 2 or 3 inches below your armpits
• The hip belt should cover the top of your hip bones and where you should be feeling the majority of the pack’s weight

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Styles of Packs

Ultralight Backpacks

If your base weight (total packed weight minus consumables) is around 10 pounds or so, then you fall in the ultralight hiker category. If you’ve ever packed for even a short hike, then you’ll know that getting under 10 pounds is a tough ask.

These packs are pretty small with just a single internal compartment, made from lightweight material with limited durability. They don’t usually have a lot of additional features or attachment points.

Backpacking Packs

A traditional backpacking pack will hold anywhere from 30 to about 50 pounds. In general, these are typically made from a heavier denier ripstop nylon.

Having a variety of external pockets and attachment points and thicker-profile shoulder padding and hip belts, these packs are typically used for thru-hiking and longer distance hikes.

You can hold a decent amount of gear but it’s not too heavy and still comfortable enough for covering plenty of miles a few days in a row.

Expedition Packs

If you’re the kind of hiker who likes to head off to a single spot and set up a comfortable camp with plenty of gear, then a larger expedition pack will be the right fit.

These can sometimes carry up to 100 pounds so they’re going to be really heavy. It’s going to have a more substantial frame, plenty of padding, and thick profile shoulder and hip straps.

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A Note on Women-Specific Packs

Men and women are physically different so it stands to reason that a guy’s pack may not fit as well on a girl.

Here are a few of the main differences:

Carrying Capacity

Certainly, the difference in physical strength means that a woman would not opt for a really heavy pack. Women hiking daypacks often have smaller carrying capacities.

Torso Length

A woman’s torso or back length is shorter than a man’s. Women-specific backpacks are shorter to accommodate this. This design feature makes women-specific packs a good option for shorter guys.

Shoulder Straps

The gap between the straps is narrower to accommodate the narrower shoulders of an average woman. They are also shorter and curved to accommodate a woman’s bust.

Chest Strap

Look for the height of the chest strap to be both adjustable and positioned for maximum comfort across the bust.

Hip-Belt

Women have curvier hips than men, so the hip belt on a woman’s pack is shaped differently to accommodate this.

Curvy Women

If you’re a woman with a curvy figure then it’s definitely worth considering a woman-specific pack but if you have a slimmer build then a unisex pack may fit you just fine.

Getting one that fits right is a very personal thing. Just because it’s called a women’s backpack doesn’t mean that all women will find it a comfortable fit.

They do look prettier though so it may be the aesthetics that seal the deal for you in the end!

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Conclusion

I’d happily go off for a weekend with any of these packs. However, you need to consider your budget and the features you personally need.

Our Favorite: The Osprey Atmos combines the best of features, durability, comfort, and price. I’ve long been a fan of Osprey packs, and with this one they have not disappointed.

Depending on your body shape, the Osprey Aether might suit you better, you can check out our comparison of the two packs.

The Arcteryx Bora 65 is one of the best backpacking backpacks, with its proprietary Rotoglide hipbelt. It is one of the most comfortable backpacks on the market. The pivoting hip belt sounds like a sales gimmick but it makes a huge difference to the weight distribution, particularly when out in the backcountry ascents.

Best For Budget: If you’re looking for a decent backpack but don’t want to spend a lot of money the Mountaintop 70L+10L Outdoor Sport is worth a look.

Mountaintop 70L + 10L Outdoor Sport

As long as you don’t load it too heavily it’ll be fine for a first-time, or occasional, hiker. Just don’t expect a high degree of durability.

All of the rucksacks we looked at are good options, but some of them are exceptional.

Decide whether you’re going to be hiking regularly or only once or twice a year and then budget accordingly.

When you’re choosing the best backpack for weekend hikes, you need to start with the end in mind. First, have in mind the kind of hiking you’ll be doing and your inventory list, and only then start looking at different pack options.

Also, remember that comfort is king. It’s easier to compensate for a lack of features than it is to fix an uncomfortable pack.

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FAQs

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Need More Advice on Gear and Footwear?

Here are some links to our most popular articles:

• Complete Guide to Backpack Kinds: Choose the Perfect Pack for the Trails
• Expert Picks: The Most Reliable Waterproof Hiking Pants for Hikers
• 10 Best Mountaineering Packs for Every Budget
• Best Daypack for Hiking: Buying Guide & Recommendations
• 11 Cheap Hiking Backpacks That Are the Best Value for Money

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