Best Hiking Backpacks 2024: Expert Buying Guide & Top Picks
Selecting the right hiking backpack is essential for comfort and enjoyment on the trail. Key factors include how well it fits your body, desired features, and your specific hiking style—whether day hikes, overnight trips, or multi-day adventures.
While no single backpack suits everyone, proven guidelines can simplify your choice. This comprehensive guide, informed by extensive field testing and expert insights, reviews top hiking backpacks, key selection criteria, and trusted brands to help you find the perfect pack.
How to Choose a Hiking Backpack
Capacity (Size)
Match backpack size to your hikes and trip length. Daypacks range from 20-40L, while overnight or multi-day treks require 50-85L. Consult local outdoor retailers for personalized sizing advice if unsure.
Expandability
Opt for packs with expansion zippers for flexibility when packing varies.
Features
Modern hiking packs offer customizable elements like strategic pockets, adjustable straps, durable fabrics, YKK zippers, padded hipbelts, and side water bottle holsters.
Load Distribution
Effective load transfer to hips (not shoulders) prevents fatigue. Test packs in-store to ensure proper fit—the hipbelt should carry 70-80% of the weight.
Ventilation
Prioritize mesh back panels and shoulder straps to minimize sweat buildup during long hikes.
Top Hiking Backpack Brands
Osprey
Renowned for innovative travel and hiking packs, Osprey offers activity-specific designs with excellent fit options and accessories. Available at major retailers like Amazon, backed by lifetime warranties and repair services.
Gregory
Gregory excels in durable, comfortable packs with comprehensive support resources on fit, care, and repairs.
Lowe Alpine
Versatile packs for trails to urban use, including specialized mountaineering and trekking models.
Deuter
A one-stop outdoor brand with rugged packs; their blog provides valuable hiking tips.
REI
Curates top brands and produces reliable in-house packs. Visit REI stores for expert fitting.
Mystery Ranch
Built for extreme durability, ideal for trekking, hunting, and tactical use.
Best Trekking and Backpacking Packs
Gregory Baltoro 75L
Perfect for multi-day hikes, featuring adjustable A3 suspension, ergonomic hipbelt/shoulder harness, lumbar support, rain cover, weather-resistant pockets, and ample storage.
TETON Sports Scout 3400
Affordable 55L internal-frame pack with torso adjustments, lumbar padding, sleeping bag compartment, and compression straps for versatile body types.
Best Waterproof Hiking Backpacks
Venture Pal 40L
Ultralight, packable daypack with water-resistant nylon, durable zippers, breathable straps, and a dedicated wet pocket.
AIRSSON Waterproof 40L
Features abrasion-resistant zippers, sweat-wicking straps, multiple compartments, security pocket, and external lash points.
Best Small Backpacks
Mubasel Gear Insulated Hydration Backpack
Compact with 2L insulated, leakproof bladder (cold for 4 hours), ventilation, and three compartments.
Osprey Packs Daylite Daypack
Versatile 13L pack with mesh pockets/straps, laptop sleeve, foam back panel, and hydration compatibility; pairs with larger Osprey packs.
Stylish Backpacks
Osprey Sirrus 24
Women-specific 24L pack with organized pockets, panel loading, and rain cover.
Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21
Rugged, military-inspired 21L pack with fixed harness, sizing options, and laptop sleeve.
Essential Hiking Gear
Hiking Poles: Protect knees on rough terrain; adjustable pairs recommended.
Hiking Boots: Break in Oboz or similar for blister-free trails.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, light layers.
Hydration: Reusable bottles or CamelBak-style systems.
Waterproofing: Dry bag, raincoat, pack cover.
