Behind every great wanderer is a great hiking backpack. This rings true whether you’re gearing up for a cross-country journey by foot, hoofing it between rail stops in Europe, or on your daily jaunt on your favorite local trail in the mountains.
A hiking backpack is more than just a comfortable and convenient place to carry your food, water, first aid, and other essentials- it’s the foundation of every hiking kit.
We’ve rounded up the hiking world’s most celebrated backpacks and subjected them to rigorous vetting and scrutiny to bring you this list of our favorites. Our picks range from fast and light daypacks to high-capacity models built for the long haul– with plenty of options in between.
The Top 10 Hiking Backpacks in 2024
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1
Heavy Duty, High Comfort Load Hauler: Osprey Aether 65 Hiking Pack -
2
Fast and Light Alpine Pack: Arc'teryx Aerios 30 -
3
Awesome Weekend Tripping: Gregory Paragon 58 -
4
Affordable Entry-Level Pack: Gregory Zulu 65/Jade 63 -
5
Super Tough Long-Haul Bag: Granite Gear Blaze 60L -
6
Featherlight Budget Weekender: REI Flash 55 -
7
Lightweight, High Comfort: Osprey Exos 58/Eja 58 -
8
Ultralight Fastpacking Backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest 40L -
9
Durable Budget Backpack: Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10 -
10
Best Sustainable Innovation: Jack Wolfskin 3D Aerorise 40
All the Hiking Backpacks We've tested
Osprey is, without question, one of the most recognizable and recommended brands for hiking backpacks of any size and style. This is for good reason: their collection of packs is practical, reasonably priced, and tough.
Their men’s Aether and Women’s Ariel are the culmination of all these factors and more. Though these packs run a little on the heavy side, they’re equally capable of lugging around a considerable load comfortably. They represent an excellent entry point for backpackers without any specific needs who want a durable and dependable model for every trip.
Airscape Back Panel: A mesh back panel keeps the actual bag off of your back while you’re hiking while keeping weight distributed across your back. This system allows for considerably more airflow than typical foam back panels.
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 65 L
- Weight: 5 lbs. 2 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Tough pack capable of carrying heavier loads comfortably
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Extensive features and pockets for organization
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Well-rounded pack
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Beginner friendly
Things we don't like:
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These packs weigh quite a bit
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Runs a little on the big side for single night trips
With a fully realized set of features, appreciable storage capabilities, and a vest-style front harness- the Aerios 30 is somewhere between a running pack and a fast-and-light alpine bag. In a world of increasingly ambitious athletes pushing the boundaries of what constitutes a day mission, this backpack makes a lot of sense for a select demographic.
For everyone else, the Aerios 30 is a bit of an anomaly. It’s an ultralight, ultra tough bag with an impressive number of pockets and other features packed into its compact build. The low weight comes at the expense of padding around the shoulders and a more robust backplate. This could come as a big surprise to people expecting the supportive weight distribution systems found in less specialized models.
Shoulder Harness: The shoulder straps on the Aerios have more in common with a running vest than they do a hiking pack. These malleable webbing straps allow for more flexibility and movement while moving quickly through the hills.
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 30 L
- Weight: 2 lbs (men), 1 lb. 14 oz (women)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Low-weight, high-durability alpine fastpack
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Vest-style harness makes it more comfortable to move fast
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Extensive feature set for a lightweight bag
Things we don't like:
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A pretty specialized product for most hikers
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High price point, even for a specialized alpine pack
The Paragon 58 is an ideal pack for a 2-3 day hiking and camping trip. The weekend warriors are tragically underrepresented in a market more towards either long or short distances. Gregory’s long-standing reputation for simple and serviceable backpacks makes them ideally suited to step into this void.
Clocking in at three pounds, nine ounces (or 3.8 lbs for the women’s Maven), these aren’t the lightest packs on the market but are competitively light. Their (comparably) simple design and thoughtful amenities make it a great weekender rucksack for backpackers with technical kits and possibly an option for longer hikes for those with REALLY dialed kits (lightweight, low-profile).
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 58 L (Paragon), 55 L (Maven)
- Weight: 3 lbs. 7 oz. (Paragon), 3 lbs. 3 oz. (Maven)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Very versatile backpack that can handle a week or a weekend
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Slim profile keeps the weight close to your body
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Well-executed side zip for central compartment access
Things we don't like:
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Their support system doesn’t do much to help with heavier loads
Modern hiking packs have a pretty standardized size, shape, and feature sets across different manufacturers and styles. Considerable effort is invested in standing out from the crowd with mixed results. Gregory’s Jade 63 and men’s Zulu 65 make no such attempts, and their simple yet serviceable approach offers hikers a safe and standardized start point for a fair price.
Like Gregory’s Paragon, the Zulu 65 and Jade 63 aim to service the weekender crowd. The Zulu and Jade take a little more relaxed approach. They weigh a little more, cost a little less, and have more of a typical “backpacking” pack shape than the Paragon’s streamlined shape. There are no surprises attached to these packs, and that’s not a bad thing when what you’re seeking is predictability and consistency.
Notable Features
Sunglasses QuickStow: Convenient loop on the shoulder to stow your sunglasses when the clouds roll in
- Materials: 210D Honeycomb Cryptorip Nylon / 210D High Tenacity Nylon (Body), 630D High-Density Nylon / 135D High-Density Polyester (Bottom), LifeSpan EVA Foam, Fiberglass Anti-barreling Stay, HDPE and 4mm Alloy Steel
- Volume: 65 Liters
- Dimensions: 28” x 13.25” x 12”
- Weight: 3.3 lbs.
- Ideal for: Short Technical Trips, Multi-Day Hiking, Trail Running
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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FreeFloat suspension system is excellent for ventilation and offers premium comfort
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It fits even broad shoulders
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2-way access water bottle holders, with compression straps to fit any bottle size
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There’s a built-in emergency whistle and tube clip at the sternum strap
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U-Zip front loading makes it easy to access the main compartment
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Mesh front pocket is very stretchable and suitable for draining gear
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You can remove the bottom compartment’s divider for extra space
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The mesh front pocket is stretchable and great for your wet gear
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No additional heaviness since its lightweight
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Built-in bladder sleeve means you can quench your thirst on the go
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The key leash on the top lid is a time-saver
Things we don't like:
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Hip belt pockets are hard to open/close
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Extra haul loops in the front (top and bottom) so you quickly move the bag while front access is open.
The Blaze 60 is a well-regarded hiking pack within many different hiking communities, celebrated for its low weight, comfort over long carries, and capability to haul more weight uncommonly well for a pack toeing the ultralight category. With a semi-modular design that allows you to remove straps and padding at your discretion, the Blaze 60 caters to many different kinds of trips and hiking philosophies.
The Blaze 60 sits very comfortably in the crossroads between ultralight packs favored by long-distance hikers like the Hyperlite’s 2400 Southwest, and the more built-out backpacks typified by Osprey’s Aether 65. While this may seem a difficult space to occupy, the Blaze 60’s weight is low enough, and its carry capabilities stable enough that both groups can enjoy some cross-benefits.
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 60 L
- Weight: 3 lbs.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Balances being light in weight and design with a high carry capacity
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Modularity makes the pack a little more versatile
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Incredibly tough
Things we don't like:
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The back panel is not breathable and runs much warmer than other packs
Continuing their trend of affordable in-house gear influenced by the best the industry has to offer, REI’s Flash 55 is their take on a lightweight backpack built for versatility. Equipped with a well thought out modular accessory system, hikers can adjust their bag for any kind of hike ranging from quick afternoon strolls to extended overnighters.
Based on its weight, price, and adjustable attitude, we think the Flash 55 holds broad appeal for a wide array of hikers. Not to mention that it’s readily available at your local REI. If you’re skeptical about how featherweight packs hold up compared to their more traditional counterparts, the Flash 55 makes for a great entry point.
Notable Features
Packmod System: REI’s modular system allows hikers to strip certain components off of their pack to save weight, or add accessories such as waterproof pockets based on their needs
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 55 L
- Weight: 2 lbs. 13 oz. (men’s) 2 lbs. 11 oz. (women’s)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Versatile bag at an impressively affordable price
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Modular setup allows hikers to tailor the bag to their needs
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Thoughtful features show REI has been paying attention to the competition
Things we don't like:
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Durability is a concern for a pack this light
Osprey’s answer to ultralight packs, the Exos and women’s Eja, shave off as much weight as possible while staying true to Osprey’s vision of what a backpack needs. To this point, both the Exos and Eja are comfortable, well-appointed with pockets and other storage conveniences, and, most notably, feature a full suspension system despite their modest weight.
When most hikers make a conscious effort to shave down their carry weight, they’re often confronted with a choice between bringing less gear or being less comfortable. The Exos and Eja cannot carry as much as a burlier, more built-out pack- but they do offer a supportive alternative for hikers trending towards the lighter side of the spectrum.
Notable Features
AirSpeed Suspension: A retooled version of Osprey’s mesh suspension system. This new lightweight version is a little tougher to hold up to the rigors of long-distance hiking
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 58 L
- Weight: 2 lbs. 13 oz. (men’s Exos) 2 lbs. 11 oz. (women’s Eja)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Bridges the gap between lightweight and supportive packs
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Remain up to Osprey’s standard of comfort despite their trimmed-down design
Things we don't like:
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Durability is a concern, as it is with most lightweight packs
Hyperlite has been on the forefront of the ultralight hiking movement for a while. Their packs are highly representative of the ultralight style, and it’s easy to argue that all of the lightweight packs in this review were in some ways influenced by their iconic backpacks.
The 2400 Southwest is Hyperlite’s version of a fast and light pack- which is saying something. This backpack is built for fast hikes through rugged terrain, where you plan in your resupplies rather than pack for distance. It’s a well-loved favorite, deserving of its near cult status in the ultralight backpacking world.
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 40 L
- Weight: 2 lbs.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Super tough lightweight pack built for fast and light hikers
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Abrasion and water resistant Dyneema build
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Large external stuff sacks are great for storing gear on the go
Things we don't like:
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Specialized gear for a growing niche of hikers
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Limited weight support encourages packing as light as possible
High volume, high value, and high utility; Deuter’s Aircontact Core is a simple and well-padded backpack that should appeal to people after an affordable option for hiking or travel. Given its high capacity (around 75L with the expandable collar deployed), this bag is great for gear-intensive hikes or for extended travel.
Its design prioritizes comfort, carry weight, and durability over any other metrics. This focus makes the Aircontact great for people who want the most supportive bag they can find, but its considerable bulk isn’t going to be for anyone concerned about their packed weight. We’d recommend the Aircontact Core to more traditionally minded trekkers, travelers, and gear enthusiasts who like to bring their toys into the mountains.
Notable Features
Expandable Collar: Built-in collar unrolls to allow for an additional 10 L of internal volume
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 65 L (men’s) (75 L with collar), 60 L (women’s) (70 with collar)
- Weight: 4 lbs. 15 oz. (men’s) 4 lbs. 9 oz. (women’s)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Affordable bag that’s built to hold up on trail
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High capacity with good hauling capabilities
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Good expandability
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Good balance when filled up
Things we don't like:
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Not a great feature set
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Only comes in a single size per model
What immediately stands out on this hiking backpack is the honeycomb-shaped cellular design across four back panels. This 3D-printed design improves ventilation while distributing weight effectively, which reduces the heat and stress on a wearer’s back.
The 3D Aerorise 40 holds a respectable 40 liter capacity, while boasting being lightweight when empty at barely over 2 pounds. This light weight does not apparently come at a cost in durability or adaptability as the hiking backpack utilizes durable metal hooks as well as adjustable chest and shoulder straps.
Even more, the 3D Aerorise 40 features a waterproof main compartment that our reviewers tested with good results. All these features come at a price naturally, which will likely deter entry-level consumers of hiking backpacks, but for innovation aficionados and particularly hikers needing a pack for short trips, scrambling, or lightpacking, the 3D Aerorise 40 is a strong choice.
- Dimensions: 68 x 32 x 27 cm
- Capacity: 40 Liters
- Weight: 930 grams/2.05 pounds
- Shell material: 100% recycled 70D CROSS RIP synthetic polymide
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Waterproof main compartment
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Lightweight
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Durable fabric and build
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Innovative back breathability
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Made from 100% recycled fabric
Things we don't like:
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May not fit well for some shorter hikers, no adjustable torso length
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Difficult to organize what’s inside
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Price puts the bag out of reach for many shoppers
Crossover products between the outdoor and lifestyle categories are hard to get right. Osprey’s Daylite Plus is a notable exception to this rule, sitting very comfortably with one foot on the trail and the other on the pavement. While it’s a far cry from highly specialized daypacks like Arc’Teryx’s Aerios 30, the Daylite Plus is more than capable of handling the occasional dayhike, while making concessions for your laptop and a more urban aesthetic.
A backpack that presents as professionally as any backpack could, but has amenities like mesh side pockets and some internal organization to help you keep track of your headlamp alongside whatever you’d take to the coffee shop.
- Frame Type: N/A
- Gear Capacity: 20 L
- Weight: 1 lb. 5 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Crossover option for the outdoors and your day to day life
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At home in the woods or on your morning bike ride
Things we don't like:
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It has some features for outdoor application, but not as many as a more focused bag
Not wanting to shell out a lot of cash for a good hiking backpack? Want to try out the backpacking lifestyle without breaking your bank? The TETON Sports Scout 3400 Backpack might interest you.
This 55-liter large backpack from TETON is a minimalist rucksack that provides all the basics of a travel/hiking bag: lots of storage, some organization, good enough comfort, and durability.
The TETON Sports Scout 3400 might appeal to you if you’re on a smaller budget but need a backpack. It may also be a good companion for your once-a-year hiking trip or a comfortable bag for a weekend escapade.
But is it even worth it, or maybe it would be wiser to invest in a backpack with a better brand?
We’ve put the TETON Sports Scout 3400 Backpack to the test, comparing it to better known brands too, and here’s our honest appraisal of what this hiking backpack does and what it can’t do.
- Materials: 600D Diamond Ripstop Nylon, 600D Polyester Oxford Canvas
- Volume: 55 Liters + Expandable 5 Liters
- Dimensions: 30” x 17” x 12”
- Weight: 4.5 lbs.
- Colors: Black, Burnt Orange, Huckleberry, Mecca Orange, Olive, Tan
- Ideal for: Hiking, Traveling
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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It comes with a built-in hydration sleeve for ease of access
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The internal frame and harness system offers enough comfort
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Massive zipped side pockets for extras
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You can keep items in the bungee straps at the front
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The integrated rain cover is a time-saver
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It provides robust construction considering its relatively cheap
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You can fine-tune torso and shoulder strap length, as well as hip belt size
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The removable divider between the main compartment and sleeping bag pocket, plus expandable top storage for maximum space
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Secret pocket under the flap
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It's got a lifetime warranty
Things we don't like:
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The hip belts got no pockets
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It can't fit in tall water bottles
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Zippers feel cheap
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The sleeping bag compartment is small
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Mesh front pocket isn’t stretchable
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You’ll need to dig through the bag since there’s no front access
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A front pocket would be nice
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It can't carry its total capacity
Want a reasonably priced yet stylish hiking backpack you can carry around the city and take on a weekend holiday trip? Jack Wolf Skin Highland Trail 55 Backpack might be the ideal bag for you.
Jack Wolfskin made its mark as a company innovating cross-over products. The German company makes gear for the great outdoors and urban life with a quality to be respected and at a price not to be dismissed.
They pledge to provide you with a nylon backpack you can equally use while strolling city centers and also take the middle of the wilderness.
It’s a 2-in-1 performance deal that has proven quite compelling to a segment of casual outdoor enthusiasts these last few years?
To confirm these expectations with reality, we put this Jack Wolfskin backpack to the test.
Here’s our verdict.
- Material: : 280D Cross Rip Polyamide (Body) and 300D Cross Rip Polyester (Base), Polyester Lining, DWR Coating, YKK Zippers
- Volume: : 55 Liters + Expandable 5 Liters
- Dimension: : 14.96” x 12.6” x 32.28”
- Weight: : 4.85 lbs.
- Colors: : Black (Phantom)
- Ideal for: : Day Hike, Short-Term Travel
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Stylish design works in both urban and outdoor escapades
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The clamshell opening is one of the best
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Zipped front pocket provides security for items you need within reach
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Spacious sleeping bag compartment
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You can max out another 5 liters on top
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Lumbar pad and hip belts are thick and comfortable
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Adjustable torso length for a custom fit
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Integrated rainfly saves you time
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There's a hidden pocket under the top lid for your valuables
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Hydration sleeve for longer trips
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Reflective accents help with visibility during the night
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The right hip pocket can double as a water bottle holder
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Enough lash points on shoulder straps for compass, flashlight, etc.
Things we don't like:
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The back padding system isn’t as breathable as it could be.
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Missing criss-cross bungee strings or a front mesh pocket for wet items
The premium build Mystery Ranch Glacier hiking backpack is a tough competitor on the hiking equipment market for a reason – it is built from the rigid Nylon and equipped with a composite internal frame for that longevity. You won’t have to replace it even after years of rigorous use due to the backpack’s unique composition.
There will be no need for extra accessories for the storage of your essentials either – the Glacier has got you covered with its 2 vertical torpedo pockets and a Speedzip compartment that gives you quick and easy access to your stuff including the sleeping bag.
The floating lid is a feature that makes it stand out in the crowd – you can easily transform it into a daytime backpack that has two massive pockets. As per usual, there are a water bottle pocket and trekking pole loops for you to use whenever you plan on climbing mountains or hills.
- Material: 550-denier Lite Plus Cordura Nylon
- Frame: Internal Composite
- Pockets: 4 + main compartment
- Dimensions: 34.5 x 13.5 x 13.5 inches
- Weight: 6 lbs. 6.4 oz
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The tough Nylon guarantees a long usage period
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The top-loading construction makes it easy for you to stuff the backpack with hiking essentials
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The 71-liters capacity means that you can embark on week-long trips without leaving any essentials behind
Things we don't like:
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Much heavier than other backpacks
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No hip-belt pockets
The Arc’teryx Bora 65 is a backcountry beast. A hiking backpack that is built to carry a good amount of gear smartly, features and a general design make this $300+ pack worth it for more serious wanderers of the wilderness. There is a bigger 75-liter option for longer outings.
While the Roto-Glide hip belt can rotate for a natural stride and shoulder straps can be adjusted in height and width, the ventilated back panel keeps your back feeling cool even after hours of hiking. Arcteryx has a Bora in male and female options and regular and tall iterations.
The backpack is made from Cordura Nylon with a respectable 210D rating for durability. Water resistance is as good as any premium pack. The Bora is created to be top-loading, meaning you fill it up from the top down. This is usually a downside, although this model has side zippers that allow you to reach the gear you placed in the bottom at any point.
Organization, comfort and quality make this hiking pack worth checking out.
- Material: 210D Cordura Nylon
- Frame: Internal
- Pockets: 6 + external compartment
- Dimensions: 30 x 24 x 13 inches
- Weight: 5 lbs. 0.1 oz. (Regular)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The hip-belt design is innovative due to its side-to-side and up-and-down rotation
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The Tegris frame sheet along with the aluminum stays aid in distributing the weight evenly
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The double waterproof fabric ensures no water ever gets soaked by the backpack’s fabric
Things we don't like:
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The price tag is extremely high
A hiking backpack that takes on the challenges that lie ahead of you is what Osprey’s Xena 85-liters is all about. Wild expeditions that require long hours of exploration are what the manufacturer had in mind when designing a tenacious backpack with adjustable BioForm torso harness and an AirSpace back panel that provides you with comfort and ventilation.
The Stow-on-the-go feature is unique to this model and is handy for quickly attaching trekking poles to the pack. The customizable Bioform CM hip-belt allows you to proportionately distribute the weight while also providing you with enough storage. You will find a lower base compartment zips and dual side-zips that give you direct access to your stuff without having to open the backpack from the top.
We found these features to be helpful when you are out and about with zero time to waste. Make use of the Powermesh pockets located on the front and by the sides of the backpack and stuff them with things like water bottle/insulated wine tumbler, sunscreen and electronic gear of your choice.
- Material: 420-denier/210-denier high-tenacity nylon/500-denier nylon packcloth
- Frame: Internal lightwire
- Pockets: 9 + main compartment
- Dimensions: 33 x 17 x 15 inches
- Weight: 5 lbs. 5 oz. (Medium)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The FlapJacket flap integrated into the backpack helps to protect your gear when the lid is removed
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The top lid of the backpack can be easily converted into a daytime backpack practical for short trips from and to the camp
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The external hydration reservoir sleeve can accommodate up to 3 liters of water
Things we don't like:
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The construction is durable yet rough, meaning that you can get blisters if not adjusted correctly
Comfortable and breathable back panel, floating lid, molded hip-belt, zippered side entry – these are just some of the features of The North Face Terra hiking backpack. This sleek-looking hiking companion will quickly find its place in your closet alongside other backpacking essentials due to its user-friendly design and an abundance of organizational storage.
It has got the OPTFIT suspension system that guarantees a secure and snug fit and padded shoulder straps that foster the highest level of comfort possible. The hip belt is designed to store all of your essentials at your fingertips while also being built from the softest air-mesh fabric. This is particularly important for prolonged hikes that cannot handle digging-into-the-hips feeling for too long.
The access to your stuff is granted to you by the spacious zippered side entry and the bottom pocket that stores your sleeping bag.
- Material: 600-denier Polyester
- Frame: Internal Aluminum
- Pockets: 9 + main compartment (Small/Medium)
- Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 4 inches
- Weight: 4 lbs. 5.8 oz
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The slimmed-down style of the backpack allows you to carry lots of stuff without looking bulky
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The vertical channel helps to improve the ventilation your back receives
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The many pockets provide you with an extensive amount of storage space
Things we don't like:
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Not widely available online
How to Choose a Hiking Pack
When it comes time to pick out a new hiking backpack, you want to keep a couple of core criteria in mind.
What kind of hiking are you looking to do?
How much do you plan on carrying with you?
How much do you want to spend?
You don’t need a different bag for every activity, but some very specialized packs aren’t very versatile. Super light and small packs can’t carry much, and oversized high-volume bags are overkill for day hikes.
There’s also a question of comfort, which will directly relate to the weight of your burden. This will also affect what you pay for your pack, so you better choose appropriately.
Carrying Capacity
Hiking backpacks range from anywhere between 10 to around 80L, not including additional mesh storage pockets and tie-downs. Savvy packers can fit a surprising amount of gear tucked in pockets and lashed to daisy chains.
Packs under 10 L are best for activities where you’re moving fast and will only be on your way for a short amount of time (ex. Salomon Active Skin 8). These bags have room for only a few essentials like an extra layer, food and water, and personal items like your phone, wallet, or keys.
20-35 L is solidly within day hiking range. Some packs this size border on large running vests (ex. Aerios 30) or minimalist overnighters (ex. 2400 Southwest). Packs around this size start to include features like hip belts and simple suspension systems to help distribute weight.
35-56 L is what most would consider an overnight or weekend pack (ex. Zulu 65). In this range, the average hiker will be more than capable of packing enough gear and food to spend a couple of nights down the trail. Weekender bags often have full suspension systems and padding to offset the weight of your gear.
60+ L includes bags built for hauling enough supplies for multiple consecutive nights in the woods, and other extended travel plans (ex. Aether 65). High-volume bags are built to withstand serious wear and tear and have overbuilt support systems and cushioning. Bags on the upper end of the spectrum are covered with pockets and have helpful organizational tools to help keep track of your large gear list.
Features
Frames and suspension
Hiking pack frames range from high-tech to non-existent. Frames are usually made of rigid plastic or lightweight alloys, sometimes with mesh webbing to keep the bag off your skin and for a more breathable fit. Larger, heavier backpacks tend to have more involved frames, with ultralight overnight packs keeping things minimal- though the Osprey Exos and Eja are notable exceptions.
Straps and hip belts
A comfortable and snug hip belt is important to keeping weight off of your shoulders and back during a hike. Similar to frames, larger bags built for heavier loads tend to have more sturdily built hip belts.
Fit Adjustment
Most hiking bags come in a size range but also feature an array of different ways to adjust how the backpack fits. These methods range from typical webbing shoulder and waist straps, to hook and ladder slots on the backplate hikers can use to further fit to the size of their torso. Higher-end bags are going to have better, easier-to-use fit adjustment systems – both for permanent adjustments and tightening belts on the go.
Pockets
A good array of pockets is a critical feature for hiking bags of any size. Side pockets for water bottles, hip belt pockets for storing snacks and other on-the-go items, and a few stuff sacks on the front of the pack are good things to look for. High-end day packs and overnight bags often have internal organizational pockets, and specialized pockets for your hydration bladder and your sleeping bag.
Side Zips and Other Access Panels
Having on-the-fly access to the main compartment of your hiking bag is a convenient way to find specific gear without completely unpacking. These access panels range from zippers along the side of your bag to U-shaped flaps that open like a duffel bag. For longer trips and larger packs, these kinds of access points are particularly useful.
Frequently asked questions
The best hiking pack is going to depend largely on the kind of hiking you want to do. From short packs for day hikes, to specialized backpacks built to haul gear- you can read about our favorites in our buyer’s guide.
Best Hiking Packs
- Osprey Aether 65/Ariel 65
- Arc’teryx Aerios 30
- Granite Gear Blaze 60
- REI Flash 55
- Osprey’s Daylite Plus
Hiking pack costs vary depending on the size of the pack and the quality of the build. High end, high capacity backpacks cost up to $400 dollars, with the most affordable starting around $200. Smaller daypacks are more affordable, usually ranging between $50 and $150 dollars. Our guide to the best hiking packs has a breakdown of our favorites across all categories.
Any time you go hiking, you’ll want to make sure you’re bringing the 10 Essentials of outdoor travel with you. At the very least, make sure you bring food, water, extra clothing, navigation, and a way of communicating with the outside world. Many hiking packs have internal pockets to help you organize yourself for your upcoming trip. Check out our best-of list for a closer look at our favorites.
If you already have a hiking backpack or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it.
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