16 Best Hiking Backpack for 2022 (All Gender Guide)

Planning a hiking adventure with your family or friends is always exciting. You dream about the beautiful scenery you will get to see once at the top of a mountain or cliff, the fun journey to go there, and the experience itself. But how can you enjoy the hike if you don’t have the right bag for it?

Hiking backpacks are created for either overnight or longer travels. These are made to withstand the weather, the weight of the items that you’re going to bring, and to help ease the weight off your back.

In this article, we have compiled all the best hiking backpacks for your whole family. We will give you the best choices for women, men, and kids. We will also show you the best bags under $100 for those of you looking to start their hiking journey.

 

Go to Comparison Table

Best Overall Hiking Backpack

1. Osprey Atmos AG 65

Dimensions: 34” X 15” X 16”

Weight: 4.48 pounds

Fabric: Nylon (100D x 630D)

Capacities: 50, 65L

Osprey has been creating backpacks for travelers for decades, which is why most professional hikers turn to this brand. Known for its durable backpacks, the company has proven itself a leader in innovation and quality, and the Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a force to be reckoned with.

What We Like

The Osprey Atmos/Aura AG 65’s best asset is that almost every part of it is perfectly padded. I said “almost” since we noticed that the edges of the hip belt have little to no pads. I’ll discuss this more later on.

The AG (Anti-Gravity) suspension system of Osprey is one of the best in this business. This lightweight mesh, which covers the entire back panel from the hip belt to the top of the bag, makes you feel that the bag is customarily-made for your body and provides great ventilation for your back.

The padding on this pack is great and gives a sense of balance even when you’re on the go. Although, you have to keep in mind the total weight of the items that you’re going to bring. This bag is great for 40 lbs. and below, but once you exceed this limit, you’ll notice that the shoulder paddings can be a little too soft.

We also loved the idea of having pockets that are easy to reach, which is very beneficial for a camping backpack. Besides, the Atmos 65 is equipped with dual-access stretch mesh side pockets, and the hip belt has zippered pockets for you to easily grab your snacks, phone, or other valuable things.

Other features include inside-out side compression straps that help stabilize the weight of the bag, a removable floating top lid with zippered pockets for additional storage, a sleeping bag compartment at the bottom for easy access, and a Sternum strap with a safety whistle.

What We Don’t Like

We liked that the hip belt can fit almost any body size, but what ticks us off is that it is somewhat unpadded, which causes minor discomfort during long trails. Plus, this discomfort is more noticeable when we exceed the 40-pound weight suggestion.

Overall, the Osprey Atmos/Aura AG 65 is a great bag for beginners and professionals. All the features and comfort it brings are worth every dollar that you spend.

---

 

Like any valued investment, whether your hiking backpack is cheap or a high-end one, it’s important that you take care of it to ensure that it can last for years. To make sure that you are taking care of your equipment properly, check out our guide on cleaning and maintaining your hiking backpack. 

 

Best Hiking Backpacks for Kids

2. Gregory Mountain Wander 50 Liter Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 24” X 9.1” X 13.4”

Weight: 3.4 pounds

Fabric: Nylon (210D x 630D)

Capacities: 50, 70L

Gregory is one of the top competing brands that produce durable hiking backpacks. Known for excellent quality and comfort, the Gregory Mountain Wander 50 is no exception to their standards.

You’ll find all the benefits of a hiking backpack for kids in this one pack. The breathable 3D foam back panel provides great ventilation to avoid over sweating. Plus, the 4” VersaFit adjustable suspension is a great idea for kids who are still growing.

The organization and pockets were also well-thought in this bag. Indeed, your kid will find dual-side pockets where they can secure a fishing rod or trekking pole, which also provides easy access to a water bottle or light snacks. The U-zip access feature provides easy access to your main compartment without rummaging through your things.

Other noteworthy features in this camping backpack for kids include a die-cut shoulder harness on the strap that has an integrated safety whistle, an adjustable hip belt with zippered pockets for great stability, a rain cover with zippered pockets to protect your bag from water, and a hydration sleeve for added water reservoir.

Overall, there’s nothing we can say against the Gregory Mountain Wander 50 hiking backpack for kids. It’s definitely one of the best options to choose from in the kids edition for under $200.

---

 

3. Osprey Ace 50 Kids Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 27.56” X 13.39” X 11.81”

Weight: 3.7 pounds

Fabric: Nylon (600D)

Capacities: 38, 50, 75L

Our next best hiking backpack for kids is the Osprey Ace 50. Because it’s Osprey, you’ll find the same quality and craftsmanship from the adult version of the bags down to the kids. Not only that, but you’ll also find great features in this bag, even if it’s under the $200 mark.

What we like about the Ace 50 is that you can adjust the torso length up to 5” and extend the Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt up to 3”. You don’t have to worry about buying bags for your child every other year since it can easily accommodate kids ages 10-18.

The AirSpeed Suspension is equipped with a 3.5 mm LightWire peripheral frame that works perfectly to transfer all the weight from the bag to the hip belt. Osprey also added a 3D-tensioned breathable mesh in the back panel to provide great ventilation while you’re on the move.

You can access the main compartment from the top load that has underlid pockets for extra organization. There’s also dual access mesh side pockets for water bottles, zippered hip belt pockets for extra snack bars, and storage for mobile phones. Additionally, you’ll find a large front panel mesh shove-it pocket for bigger items that you may want to fit in.

Other features of the Ace 50 includes a daisy chain for your to strap additional gear, dual lower and upper side compression straps, removable sleeping pads straps, a lower zippered sleeping bag access with a divider, a removal rain cover to protect your bag, an adjustable strap to carry your fishing rod or ice tool, and an internal reservoir sleeve.

Overall, the Osprey Ace 50 is one for the buck. Your kid will find everything they’ll need in one bag and will use it for a long time. When it comes to durability and organization, the Osprey is at the top of the charts.

---

 

4. Deuter Kids Fox 40 Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 26” X 11” X 9.4”

Weight: 2.93 pounds

Fabric: Polyester (600D)

Capacities: 30, 40L

Next on our list of the best hiking backpacks for kids is the Deuter Fox 40. Deuter has been in the industry for decades and has proven to offer quality packs at a much more affordable price than brands like Osprey or Gregory.

What we like about the Fox 40 is that it’s specifically designed for growing kids. The VariQuick System allows you to adjust the back length and torsos between 10-18”. You’ll also find pull-forward hip fins that you can adjust according to the size of your child, which is super beneficial for any camping backpacks.

It also features Deuter’s Contact back system, thanks to which you’ll notice that the weight of the bag is distributed evenly up to the hips. The 3D AirMesh provides enough ventilation so that your kid will experience minimum sweat at the back while on the go.

But, what caught our attention are the compartments. You’ll find an elasticated compartment inside the pack to store any of your kid’s wet clothes or their water reservoir. There’s also an integrated zip pocket at the lid to store other necessities. At the bottom of the pack, there’s a separate compartment with a removable intermediate base.

Other features you’ll find in this hiking backpack for kids include a walking pole or fishing rod holder, outer mesh pockets for easy access of water and snacks, an SOS label in case your kid experiences a tough situation, and a hydration compatible system.

What we don’t like about the Deuter Fox 40 is that it doesn’t include a rain cover to protect the bag. Plus, there are no compression straps to attach a sleeping bag or pad, the hip belt has thin paddings, and the bag doesn’t have any pocket for extra storage.

---

 

Best Hiking Backpacks for Women

5. Osprey Aura AG 65 Women’s Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 30” X 18” X 7”

Weight: 4.02 pounds

Fabric: Nylon (100D x 630D)

Capacities: 50L

We recognize that the Osprey Aura AG 65 is one of the best women’s camping backpacks on the market today. Like other Osprey bags, this pack is equipped with all the right features in the right places.

What we like about the Aura AG 65 is that it’s a great fit for any woman of any size. It’s equipped with the Anti-Gravity Suspension system with a full peripheral frame that transfers most of the weight down to the hips. Besides, the Anti-Gravity back panel covers the entire pack, from the top to the bottom, with mesh on the shoulder, back, and hips.

The pockets are accessible everywhere. Another feature that we like about this pack is its many pockets. Aside from the main compartment that features extra pockets, you’ll find a sleeping bag compartment at the bottom of the bag, dual-stretch mesh pockets on the side for your water bottles and snacks, and zippered pockets on the hip belt for smaller items.

The other features of the Aura AG 65 are worth mentioning too. Indeed, the integrated FlapJacket helps protect the top lid even if you remove it. There’s also the Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment thanks to which you can easily attach the gears that you’re carrying to free your hands.

However, what we don’t like about this backpack is the feel of the hip belt. It somewhat lacks padding, which is why over time, while hiking, we felt slight discomfort. This is also why we don’t recommend carrying over 50 lbs. in total.

Overall, if you maintain up to 45 lbs., the Osprey Aura AG 65 should be on the top of your choices. It has all the right features for a hiking backpack and the durability of an Osprey brand is top-notch.

---

 

6. Gregory Mountain Octal 55 Women’s Camping Backpack

Dimensions: 28” X 9” X 7”

Weight: 6.58 pounds

Fabric: Nylon (100D x 210D)

Capacities: 35L

Our next top pick for women’s hiking backpacks is the Gregory Mountain Octal 55. For about $200, you’ll find comfort, a good weight distribution, and great features.

What we like about the Octal 55 is the ultra-lightweight 7001 tubular aluminum frame that helps balance all the weight from your bag. This frame is equipped with a leaf-spring lumbar pad and an anti-barreling support system. Not only that, but the pack has an AeroSpan ventilated suspension with additional moisture-wicking mesh to improve the ventilation of your back.

We also love the idea of having a women’s specific feature for the pack. Gregory equipped this pack with a FocusForm dual density with LifeSpan EVA foam on the shoulder harness and hip belt for additional comfort. This also comes with a sternum strap with a hydration clip and large zippered pockets on the hip belt.

The compartments and organization of the entire pack were also well-thought. Indeed, you’ll find a Sunglass QuickStow system around the shoulder harness to easily secure your sunglasses without fearing scratching them. There’s also a custom-fitted rain cover under the top lid to protect your bag from a downpour.

Not only that, but you’ll also find multiple zippered compartments at the top and undersize of the pack for easy storage, key clip, and attachment points. Like other camping backpacks, you’ll also find a side and front oversized stretch mesh pocket to reach your water bottle and snacks. Plus, there’s a dual trekking/tool attachment and molded webbing keepers for better strap management.

---

 

7. Gregory Deva 60 Women’s Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 25.2″ X 15.75″ X 9.06″

Weight: 4.14 pounds

Fabric: Nylon (210D x 630D)

Capacity: 50L

Another Gregory backpack on our list is the Deva women’s camping backpack. Compared to the Octal 55, the Deva pack has more advanced features for almost double the price. Don’t get us wrong though, every penny you spend on this bag is worth it. Now, let’s get down to the features.

The pack has an aluminum wishbone frame with an anti-barreling cross-stay feature, along with an A3 (Auto Angle Adjust) suspension on the shoulder harnesses and a hip belt that automatically rotates to fit your unique body structure. This also allows the bag to deliver the weight down to the ComfortGrip Lumbar pad with a removable LumbarTune Pad for you to effortlessly customize the fit.

The Deva 60 also screams comfort in every part of the pack. The harness and hip belts are designed with a multi-density LifeSpan Eva foam construction and Gregory’s pre-curved technology to relieve the pressure and weight from your back and eliminate hot spots from constantly moving. It’s also worth mentioning that the back panel has multi-density, layered matrix breathable foam to provide airflow, cushioning, and support for your back.

Gregory has also provided maximum compartments within the bag. The main opening in front of the bag is a full-body U-Zip for you to easily unload your items. There’s also dual front zippered heavy-duty mesh pockets, mesh side stack pockets for additional water bottle or trekking poles, a dual-barrel top lid design with zippered pockets and a center divider for large items, and a zippered bottom with a removable divider to create a sleeping bag compartment.

When we said earlier that the Dova 60 has all the possible advanced features, we’re not lying. Aside from the aforementioned compartments and back support technology, Gregory has added more surprise to this pack.

For instance, it has a removable hydration sleeve that you can convert into a SideKick Daypack with an accessory pocket and harness. It also includes a rain cover that’s hidden on the underside of the top lid zippered pocket. Plus, the WeatherShield hip belt is H2O-resistant with a zipper pocket for your camera or phone.

There’s also a SideWinder bottle holster where you can tuck away your water bottle one-handedly, as well as a Sunglass QuickStow system to secure your sunglasses without worrying about any scratches. Finally, there are upper shock locks and dual adjustable loops for trekking poles or fishing rods.

Additional features include a removable girth-hitched Multi-Straps lower compression, comfort-grip zipper pulls, and four top pockets to attach your other accessories. Overall, the Gregory Deva 60 women’s camping backpack is perfect for those who are looking for an extreme backpack with complete features.

---

 

Choosing the correct hiking equipment that will suit your needs and preferences can be a bit intimidating, mainly because of the cost of the equipment  and the endless amount of gear available to choose from. When choosing a hiking backpack, there are a lot of factors to consider. Read our article to know how to choose a hiking backpack. 

 

Best Hiking Backpacks for Men

8. Osprey Packs Volt 75 Men’s Camping Backpack

Dimensions: 33.3” X 15.0” 14.2”

Weight: 2.07 pounds

Fabric: 210D Nylon x 600D Polyester

Capacity: 50L

The Osprey Volt 75 is included in our best backpack list because it has all the best features without unnecessary extras. For about $200, it outperforms other more expensive camping backpacks.

The key attribute of the Volt 75 is its one-size-fits-all feature. You can adjust the torso up to 5” and extend the Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt to 3” so you don’t have to worry about having the perfect fit or balance of the bag. It’s equipped with an integrated rain cover that you can remove when the sun is up.

The pack is also equipped with an AirScape back panel and AirScape suspension to provide your back with ease while carrying the weight load. Besides, the back panel is made of mesh-covered ridge foam that keeps the weight close to the body while providing enough ventilation. The 3.5 mm LightWire peripheral frame and 1 mm HDPE framesheet for the suspension allow transferring most of the weight from the shoulder harness down to the hip belt.

What we also like about the Volt 75 are the pockets. You’ll find dual-zippered pockets on the top lid, shove-it pockets on the front panel, dual access stretch mesh side pockets, zippered pockets on the hip belt, and a zippered compartment for a sleeping bag.

Even though we consider the Osprey Volt 75 one of the best hiking backpacks, we still found some issues with it. First, you should definitely take note of the weight and not exceed 50 lbs., or you’ll notice difficulty in the shoulder harness. Also, the side pockets are a little too tight, making it kind of difficult to get the water bottle using one hand. You also have to consider that this pack doesn’t come with a rain cover.

Overall, for a durable backpack with loads of features, the Volt 75 is still worth every penny.

---

 

9. Gregory Baltoro 75 Men’s Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 28” X 14” X 13.5”

Weight: 4.83 pounds

Fabric: Nylon (210D x 630D)

Capacity: 50L

When you’re looking for a durable hiking backpack, Gregory packs should be one of your top choices. With the Baltoro 75, there’s no doubt that you’ll have a worry-free camping experience.

What we like about the Gregory Baltoro 75 is that it has the complete features you’ll find in a pack. It’s equipped with the Gregory’s A3 (Auto Angle Adjust) suspension system on the hip belt and harnesses that automatically rotate to provide you with custom-fit comfort. The Wishbone aluminum frame also helps deliver the weight from your back down to the lumbar pad.

There’s also the matrix breathable back panel with multi-density and layered foam to provide cushioning, airflow, and support to your back. Plus, you’ll find nine external pockets in this pack.

Besides, you’ll notice the U-zip full-body main opening for easy access to your items. In addition, there is a zippered pocket right on the underside of the top lid for a custom rain cover, and a removable hydration sleeve that you can convert into an accessory pocket and shoulder harness.

The WeatherShield hip belt H2O-resistant is also equipped with a zippered pocket for your phone. A SideWinder bottle holster for a one-hand on-the-go bottle access, side stash pockets for your snacks and extra water bottles, dual zippered pockets on the front, a double-barrel top lid design with zippered pockets with a center divider, a zippered sleeping bag compartment with a removable divider, and more.

What we don’t like about the Gregory Baltoro 75 is it’s quite expensive considering you’ll find most of these features on more affordable packs. Aside from that, this pack has got everything you need for your next camping adventure.

---

 

10. Granite Crown 2 60 Men’s Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 23.5” X 16” X 8”

Weight: 2.1 pounds

Fabric: Nylon (100D x 210D)

Capacity: 60L

We included the Granite Crown 2 60 in our favorite hiking backpacks for men because it’s ultra-lightweight, provides great features, and is much cheaper than other packs with the same features.

The Crown 2 is equipped with the new Vapor Current Mark 2 frame, made from polypropylene frame sheet, with designed holes to minimize the weight and a molded foam back panel with mesh ventilation channels to provide more comfort while reducing the moisture to give you a breathable pack.

What we love about this pack is that it adopted the Re-Fit adjustable/removable hip belt from the Lutsen pack series. With this hip belt, you’ll surely love the tight customization fit on your body. Another feature that separates the Crown 2 from the previous products made by Granite is the removable top lid which now has a DWR-treated zipper for you to easily store smaller items.

For storing your gears, you’ll find a roll-top main compartment with a singular buckle and centered dual strap for easy compression and organization. There also are large side stretch woven pockets for your water bottles, front-stretch mesh pockets for your snacks, and an internal hydration sleeve and hydration port for your water reservoir.

What we don’t like about the Granite Crown 2 is that it doesn’t have a separate compartment for the sleeping bags, which means you’ll have to be good at organizing your gears. It also lives up to its tagline for being ultra-lightweight so you have to be extra careful with the fabric to prevent it from tearing. Lastly, you have to keep in mind the total weight of your gear because it has minimal padding and performs poorly when loaded heavily.

Overall, if you’re looking for a pack that’s lightweight, has great compartment features, and is fairly cheap, then the Granite Crown 2 should be at the top of your list.

---

 

11. Deuter Aircontact 65 10 Men’s Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 33.1” X 11.8” X 10.2”

Weight: 6.6 pounds

Fabric: Polyamide (330D x 250D)

Capacity: 75L

What we love about the Deuter Aircontact 65 10 backpack is the carefully-thought enhanced back system by Deuter. The aluminum X-frame provides stability for the bag, and the Aircontact back system was created to mirror your body movements. There’s also a VariFlex pivoting hip belt with a floating scapula pad that provides you full control of the bag.

All these features were put together to create an advanced back system that takes away the warm air when the bag compresses to your back and pulls the fresh air when the bag is extended. This results in 15% less sweat in your back and the bag.

We also love the adjustable straps and belts that enable you to fit the pack on almost any body size. You’ll also find pull-forward hip fins for precise adjustment, adjustable shoulder straps for better load distribution, an adjustable lid height for expanded storage, and an adjustable sternum belt.

This durable backpack is also full of compartments. You’ll find a large U-shaped two-way zipper on the main compartment to access the lower part of the bag without getting all your gears out. There’s also a separate bottom compartment, which you can easily remove as a base. Inside the pack, there’s a separate elasticated inner compartment to help keep your clothes dry.

Also, there’s an integrated zip pocket on the lid for an additional compartment for your most important gears. Of course, there are two either zipped or elasticated outer side pockets for your water bottles. You’ll also find loops to fasten your fishing rods or walking poles.

Other notable features include a removable rain hood with storage, a water reservoir, and a SOS label in case of an emergency.

What we don’t like about the Deuter Aircontact 65 10 is that it’s one of the heaviest packs that we have ever reviewed. Additionally, the hip belt is too bulky and provides too much friction so you can’t adjust it too easily.

---

 

12. Granite Gear Blaze 60L Men’s Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 29” X 15” X 7”

Weight: 3 pounds

Fabric: Nylon (100D x 210D)

Capacities: 60L

What we like about the Granite Gear Blaze 60 is the overall feel of the back support down to the hip belt. It simply uses a plastic frame sheet with foams covering the back panel, hip belts, and lumbar area, thus providing support on the back with enough comfort. This gives a solid feel and the Air Current frame support gives great ventilation.

Another thing that we like about this pack is that it’s lightweight and can hold heavier loads than other brands. Surprisingly, Granite has built this pack with hikers in mind. Therefore, the bag is full of compartments and features.

For instance, you’ll find extra-large pockets on the hip belt, stuff-it stretchy mesh pockets in the front, big side pockets for water bottles, hidden zippered pockets on the front, and a pocket on the removable top tip side. There are also loads of compression straps in the front and side of the pack, where you can secure the load or place a foam pad or poles.

What we don’t like about the Granite Gear Blaze is that the shoulder straps and hip belt don’t have mesh, which means you’ll feel the sweat when the weather is warm. We also had a hard time fitting all the shoulder straps and hip belt, which was kind of time-consuming.

Overall, the Gear Blaze is an exceptional pack that is neither cheap nor expensive. In the lightweight division, it can impressively carry heavier weight.

---

 

Best Hiking Backpack Under $100

13. Amazon Basics Internal Frame with Rainfly Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 32″ X 15.5” X 7”

Weight: 5.11 pounds

Fabric: Polyester

Capacity: 55L

What we like about the AmazonBasics Internal Frame is its durability, compartments, affordability, and water-resistance. This pack has an internal frame for support and durability. Plus, the straps and lumbar support are sufficiently padded for you to feel comfortable even on a day hike.

We also like the idea of a water-repellent exterior and waterproof tarp to protect your gear from the rain. It’s complete in the necessary compartments, which are found on the side for your water bottles, and zippered pockets on the front and side for your small items.

What we don’t like on this pack, however, is that the straps tend to slack and you’d have to constantly pull them to be fit again. Besides, the sleeping bag compartment is too small. Indeed, we tried strapping a standard-sized sleeping bag and we had to push it in order to lock it.

Overall, you get what you pay for when it comes to the AmazonBasics Internal Frame. If you’re going for a 1- or 2-day hike, then you can already use this pack without worrying about any discomfort.

---

 

14. OutdoorMaster 45L Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 23” X 15” X 8.6”

Weight: 2.4 pounds

Fabric: Nylon

Capacity: 50L

OutdoorMaster has proven its performance with this 45L Travel Carry-on, which is an affordable and durable backpack. This equipment provides all the best features and compartments in the right places.

First off, you’ll find thickened shoulder straps to provide you comfort while carrying the bag. There’s also interior light padding to protect your gear, and a sturdy back panel to provide good air ventilation. What we definitely like about this pack is that you can easily fit a 15.6” laptop in the main compartment.

Besides, there are many compartments to store your small items. Indeed, there’s a side stretch pocket for your water bottle, two zippered storage (main and secondary compartment), and a lot of attachment points to hold your sleeping bag, tent, water reservoir, etc. We also love having a headphone port on the main compartment. Plus, although the pack is already water-resistant, it includes a rain cover for even better protection.

However, there are a few points that we don’t like about the OutdoorMaster 45L. For one, the zippers are not high quality so you need to be careful when pulling those strings. Plus, you have to completely remove the cover to access the items inside your main compartment.

Overall, the Outdoor Master 45L hiking backpack is totally worth its price. You can easily carry the maximum weight without feeling any discomfort.

---

 

15. Outlander Ultra Lightweight Packable Water Resistant Travel Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 17” X 11” X 7”

Weight: 0.46 pounds

Fabric: Nylon

Capacity: 20L

Outlander has given everyone a reason to go on a hiking adventure with their ultra-lightweight, water-resistant backpack. The weight of this pack is the feature that stands out the most to us. Weighing just around .46 lbs., you’ll be surprised to know that it can carry 20 lbs. without experiencing any problem.

It’s both a durable and water-resistant backpack so you don’t have to worry about wear and tear while you’re hiking. Plus, it’s compact and roomy at the same time. If you’re not using it, you can simply fold it into its zippered pocket.

You’ll also be astounded by how many compartments this pack features. It has a spacious main compartment, two front zippered pockets to store away your snacks and accessories, one internal zippered pocket to store your phone, and two side pockets for your water bottle. In this new version of the Outlander backpack, you’ll also find a very accessible carabiner clip to easily attach your gears.

The only thing that is troublesome with this backpack is that the fabric is thin, so you might not want to bring it in extreme hikes.

---

 

16. Teton Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Hiking Backpack

Dimensions: 30” X 17” X 12”

Weight: 4.5 pounds

Fabric: Polyester

Capacity: 55L

The Teton Sports Scout 3400 is considered by many as one of the best hiking backpacks for beginners. It’s equipped with an internal frame that is most sought out in Amazon. If you’re planning to go on a 2-to-4-day hiking trip, this backpack should be one of your top choices.

The torso, waist, and shoulder harnesses can be adjusted to fit almost any body size. Plus, it has molded channels, dual aluminum, and lumbar pads to make your trip more comfortable and provide steadier balance without stressing your back.

You’ll also find the pockets and compartments very handy. The main compartment is 3400 cubic inches, so you can easily store all your clothes, food, gears, and lightweight sleeping bag inside. There are two zippered side pockets for your water bottles, front and side mesh pockets for your snacks and small items, a top zippered pocket for your other essentials, and another pocket if you have a padded water bladder.

---

 

Hiking Backpacks: Comparison Table

---

 

Nobody wants to experience a quick day hike trip with excessive weight on their shoulders. Imagine the heavy load and muscle pains you’ll go through by the time you get back home. To help you avoid this situation, read our article to learn how to pack for a day hike.

 

How Do You Choose a Hiking Backpack?

Backpacks differ in sizes, features, capacity, and more. Imagine bringing a pack that’s too large for your trip, you’d end up bringing lots of unnecessary items and having more weight to carry. On the other hand, a bag that’s too small means you’d have to sacrifice a lot of necessary items and overstuff the bag, which would imbalance your weight.

Here are some of the factors that you need to consider when buying a hiking backpack.

• Capacity

  Before deciding what type of bag you would be using, you should create a checklist of all the items that you need to bring. By doing so, you’ll have an idea of the weight that you need to carry during your hike. Different backpacks have different capacities depending on the items you’d bring and the duration of your hike.

  You can take note of the description below to help you measure the size of the hiking bag to bring.

  • 30 to 50 liters

    Some day packs can reach up to 35 liters, but if you’re planning an overnight camping trip, then you should consider a hiking pack that can carry around 30-50 liters. Generally speaking, this can already accommodate food, clothing, and sleeping pads for a hike of around 1-3 days.

  • 51 to 80 liters

    If you’re planning a 3-to-5-day hike, then you should definitely consider a backpack that can easily carry this kind of weight. Packs of this size typically have more technical features and are sometimes specialized to endure certain climates.

  • 80 liters and beyond

    Typically used by experienced hikers and professionally guided trips, these types of backpacks can carry enough food, clothes, and gears to last 5 days or more. You’ll find every feature of a durable backpack, and sometimes more.

• Mesh ventilation

  One of the many important features to look for in a hiking backpack is mesh ventilation. This is a back panel made from mesh that allows the bag to float a couple of inches from your back to promote airflow and prevent sweating.

• Frame or frameless

  If you’re a minimalist hiker or new to this hobby, it’s best to choose a frameless backpack first. Without a frame, the bag itself is lightweight and can store a small capacity of gears, food, and clothes. If you plan to continuously hike, then you can go for a backpack with a frame.

  Frames can differ in materials and weight. You’ll find frames made of plastic, aluminum, or any other durable materials. This makes the pack sturdier to help support the extra weight, and at the same time, is a little heavier than a frameless one.

• Waist belt

  You’ll usually find a waist belt on any durable backpacks that are 25 liters and up. This advanced suspension system helps hold your bag in place while you’re hiking. The waist belt also transfers some of the weight from your shoulder down to your hips to ease your shoulders and let your legs do the lifting.

• Storage

  It’s fairly important that you look for a pack that provides loads of storage. Not only will it allow you to fully organize everything you’ll bring, but it will also make it easier for you to access frequently used items. The pack should have several pockets and storage solutions for you to be able to attach your gears.

• Sternum straps

  Another advanced suspension system that you need to look for in a backpack is sternum straps. These are the straps you’ll find in the chest area to prevent your back and shoulder from getting sore from the weight.

• Hydration

  Most hiking packs nowadays either have a hydration sleeve or hydration reservoir. These are rubber or plastic bladders that can be filled with water. You can access the water via a tube that is directly connected to your pack. This is very convenient as you don’t need to stop and reach for your water bottle every now and then.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a hiking backpack for your next camping trip, make sure to check all the items and gears that you’re going to bring first. This will help you distinguish what type of camping pack you should buy.

Also, you should always consider the features that you’re going to need, the size, and the overall weight of the pack. Whether it’s just under $100 or beaming up to $300, the most important things to remember are your necessities and overall safety.