Hiking is an excellent way to get some exercise, enjoy the great outdoors, and connect with nature. A good hiking backpack is essential for carrying all the necessary gear, snacks, and water.
There are many types of backpacks available, but for hiking, it’s important to choose one that is specifically designed for this activity.
Let’s review some of the best hiking backpacks for the year, with pros and cons, so you can get one that is perfect for you.
What to Look for in a Hiking Backpack
When choosing a hiking backpack, there are several critical things to consider. The first is the size of the backpack, which will depend on the length of your hike and the amount of gear you plan to carry. A backpack that is too small will not be able to carry everything you need, while a backpack that is too large will be too heavy and cumbersome to carry.
The second thing to consider is the type of backpack. There are two main types of hiking backpacks: internal frame and external frame. Internal frame backpacks are more popular because they are more comfortable and better suited for uneven terrain. External frame backpacks are better for carrying heavy loads over flat terrain.
We spent hours researching and testing ten hiking backpacks to identify the best ones on the market. Our top picks are designed to be comfortable, durable, and spacious enough to carry everything you need for a day hike or a multi-day trip.
Best Hiking Backpacks
Whether you’re planning a day hike or a thru-hiking adventure, having the right backpack is essential. The best backpack for long-distance hiking should be comfortable, durable, and have enough storage space to carry all your gear.
To help you find the perfect backpack for your next adventure, we’ve compiled a list of the best hiking backpacks on the market.
From lightweight daypacks to heavy-duty backpacking packs, these top-rated backpacks offer the perfect combination of comfort, functionality, and style.
G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack
If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable hiking backpack that is easy to pack and carry, the G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack is a great option.
Pros
- Foldable design allows for easy packing and carrying
- Several compartments keep items organized and separated
- Durable and water-resistant materials ensure longevity and protection from the elements
- Great affordable entry-level hiking backpack option
Cons
- May not be large enough for longer hikes or trips
- Side pockets may not fit larger water bottles
- Not suitable for heavy loads or extensive use
The G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack is perfect for short hikes, day trips, and other outdoor activities. The foldable design makes it easy to pack and carry, while the multiple compartments keep your items organized and easy to access.
The durable and water-resistant materials ensure that your belongings stay dry and protected from the elements, making it a reliable choice for any outdoor adventure.
However, the backpack may not be large enough for longer hikes or trips, and the side pockets may not fit larger water bottle.
Overall, the G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack is a great choice for those looking for a lightweight and durable backpack for their outdoor adventures, and is rated as one of the best camping backpacks.
TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack
If you’re looking for a hydration pack that’s perfect for day trips, look no further than the TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack.
It’s light, comfortable, and comes with a leakproof 2-liter hydration bladder, making it a terrific companion for all your day-long or overnight hydration needs.
Pros
- The backpack is highly customizable, with adjustable shoulder, chest, and waist straps that allow you to get a custom fit.
- The Oasis 1100 is designed with plenty of room for all the gear you want to keep handy, including a large main pocket that protects gear, clothes, and lunch.
- The backpack is made with trusted quality, with over 1,000 verified 5-star reviews testifying to the quality and design.
Cons
- Sometimes the hydration bladder’s sip tube can kink, making it difficult to drink from.
- The backpack may not be the best choice for those who need to carry a lot of gear, as it only has an 18-liter capacity.
The TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack is a great choice for hikers, runners, cyclists, and commuters who need a lightweight, comfortable backpack that’s designed to keep them hydrated. With its customizable fit and trusted quality, it’s a backpack that you can count on to get you through any adventure.
One thing to keep in mind is that the hydration bladder’s sip tube can kink easily, which can make it difficult to drink from.
Sometimes the backpack’s bungee cord system for cycling and climbing helmets can be difficult to use. However, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the backpack’s many benefits, including its large main pocket and trusted quality.
If you’re looking for a hydration pack that’s perfect for day trips, the TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack is definitely worth considering. It’s a high-quality backpack that’s designed to keep you hydrated and comfortable, no matter where your adventures take you.
THE NORTH FACE Terra 65 Backpack
If you’re looking for a durable and comfortable backpack for your next multi-day hiking trip, THE NORTH FACE Terra 65 Backpacking Backpack is a great option.
Pros
- The suspension system and cushioned back panel provide ultimate comfort and support for carrying heavy loads.
- The Dyno Lift System helps distribute weight evenly and adjust the load lifters on the fly, making it easy to carry what you need without adding extra weight.
- The full J-zip opening and separated compartments help you organize your essentials and provide quick access to the pack’s contents.
Cons
- The backpack is somewhat heavy, with an average weight of 4lbs 1oz for the S/M size and 4lbs 5oz for the L/XL size.
- Relatively expensive compared to other hiking backpacks on this list.
The NORTH FACE Terra 65 Backpacking Backpack is a great investment for serious hikers who need a durable and comfortable backpack for multi-day expeditions off the beaten path.
With its suspension system, Dyno Lift System, and organized storage compartments, this backpack is designed to carry everything you need.
However, it may be a bit much for shorter trips or those on a budget, it is definitely a more premium option.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality hiking backpack, THE NORTH FACE Terra 65 Backpack is the best backpack for a 3 day hike.
Osprey Talon 22 Men’s Hiking Backpack
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable hiking backpack, the Osprey Talon 22 is a great choice.
Pros
- Internal padded laptop sleeve
- Dual zippered hipbelt pockets
- Blinkie light attachment
Cons
- May not be large enough for multi-day trips
- Water resistance could be better
The Osprey Talon 22 is a well-designed backpack that is perfect for day hikes and light-and-fast missions.
The internal padded laptop sleeve is a convenient feature for those who want to bring their electronics on the trail.
The dual zippered hipbelt pockets offer easy access to small items like snacks or a phone. The blinkie light attachment is a nice safety feature for those who hike in low-light conditions.
However, the backpack may not be large enough for multi-day trips, so if you’re planning on camping overnight, you may need a larger pack.
Some users may find the straps uncomfortable, especially if the pack is not adjusted properly. And while the backpack is water-resistant, it may not keep your belongings completely dry in heavy rain.
Overall, the Osprey hiking backpack is a great choice for those who want a durable and versatile hiking backpack for day trips and light-and-fast missions.
I’ve also purchased and personally used the Osprey Talon 11 backpack and it is an amazing choice for the price.
Venture Pal 40L Foldable Backpack
One of my personal favorites for an affordable pack is the Venture Pal 40L Foldable hiking backpack.
Pros
- The waterproof pocket is an excellent feature that allows you to separate damp or soiled items from the rest of your belongings.
- The nylon fabric used in this backpack is resistant to tears and water, while the zippers and stress points are reinforced, ensuring durability.
- The lightweight and foldable design of this backpack, coupled with its breathable mesh shoulder straps and sponge padding, make it a comfortable and easy-to-carry option.
- With a 40L capacity and multiple compartments, this backpack provides an easy way to organize and access your gear during outdoor excursions.
- This is one of the most affordable hiking backpacks that you can find and does not sacrifice quality.
Cons
- This backpack does not have a specialized laptop pocket, which may make it less suitable for carrying laptops or fragile electronic devices.
- The thin material of this backpack may provide inadequate protection for delicate items, like cameras or other sensitive equipment.
- Although designed for durability, this backpack may not be the best option for carrying extremely heavy loads over extended periods.
I recently purchased the Venture Pal 40L hiking backpack and it has exceeded all of my expectations. The wet pocket design is perfect for wet clothes and I can tell the materials are durable enough to last even through rough treatment.
I love the multiple compartments, making it easy to organize and access all of my gear. The backpack is also very comfortable to wear, even on longer hikes.
Overall, I would rate this backpack a 10/10 and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile entry-level hiking backpack.
Be sure to check out our full Venture Pal 40L backpack review here for more details.
Hiking Backpack Buying Guide
To help make your decision easier, here are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing what the best hiking backpack to buy will be for your lifestyle.
| Factor to Consider | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Consider the duration of your hikes and the amount of gear you’ll need. A daypack typically holds up to 30 liters, while an overnight pack can hold 30-50 liters. Multi-day packs range from 50-80 liters or more. |
| Fit | Make sure the backpack fits your body type and is comfortable to wear for extended periods. Look for adjustable straps and a hip belt that distributes weight evenly. |
| Weight | A lighter pack will be more comfortable to wear, but a heavier pack may offer more durability and features. Consider the weight of the pack itself, as well as the weight of the gear you’ll be carrying. |
| Ventilation | Look for a backpack with breathable mesh panels or foam padding to keep you cool and dry during hot and humid weather. |
| Accessibility | Consider how easy it is to access your gear while wearing the backpack. Look for features like front-loading zippers or side pockets. |
| Durability | Look for a backpack made of sturdy materials that can withstand wear and tear. Consider the durability of the zippers, buckles, and straps as well. |
| Weather resistance | If you’ll be hiking in wet conditions, look for a backpack made of waterproof or water-resistant materials. |
| Price | Hiking backpacks can range from $50 to $500 or more. Consider your budget and the features you need before making a purchase. |
| Brand | Look for reputable brands that specialize in outdoor gear and have a history of producing quality backpacks. Read reviews from other hikers to see how the backpack performs in real-world conditions. |
FAQs about Hiking Backpacks
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers I hear about buying hiking backpacks.
How do I make sure the backpack fits me properly?
Proper fit is important for comfort and to prevent injuries. Look for a backpack with adjustable straps and a hip belt that distributes weight evenly. Measure your torso length and choose a backpack that matches that measurement. When trying on a backpack, adjust the straps and hip belt to fit your body.
What features should I look for in a hiking backpack?
Proper fit is important for comfort and to prevent injuries. Look for a backpack with adjustable straps and a hip belt that distributes weight evenly. Measure your torso length and choose a backpack that matches that measurement. When trying on a backpack, adjust the straps and hip belt to fit your body.
Can I use a regular backpack for hiking?
While it is possible to use a regular backpack for hiking, it may not be as comfortable or durable as a backpack designed specifically for hiking. Regular backpacks may not have the necessary ventilation, padding, or weight distribution to make a long hike comfortable.
How much should I spend on a hiking backpack?
The price of hiking backpacks can vary widely, from $50 to $500 or more. Consider your budget and the features you need before making a purchase. A higher-priced backpack may have more features, durability, and comfort, but it may not be necessary for everyone.
Conclusion
From lightweight daypacks to heavy-duty backpacking packs, we’ve reviewed some of the best hiking backpacks for 2023.
The G4Free 10L backpack is perfect for short hikes, while the TETON Sports Oasis 18L is great for day trips.
If you’re planning a multi-day hike, the North Face Terra 65 is a durable and comfortable option.
The Osprey Talon 22 is a versatile choice for day hikes and light-and-fast missions.
In the end, choosing the best hiking backpack ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
It’s important to do your research and choose a backpack that is comfortable, durable, and has enough storage space to carry all your essentials for any outdoor adventure.
Hopefully this buying guide has helped you decide on which of the top hiking packs will work best for you. Any time you use a link from my site, it helps support me and my family, and I appreciate it immensely.