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The best hiking backpack can feel daunting to find. After all, every hiker knows that when planning an outdoor adventure, organizing your gear and creature comforts can sometimes feel as challenging as the journey itself. You have that pre-trip list down pat: water bottle, check; sun protection, check; bug spray, check. But the perfect bag to carry it all in? Getting that right takes a little more time and research. To help you sort through the best hiking backpacks for your next adventure—whether you're headed on a half-day outing in your local state park, or a weeklong trek through Denali—we looked to some of our favorite outdoor gear brands, and tapped the outdoorsy folks in our sphere to tell us which backpacks they love to sport. Sport Backpack
If you're preparing for a one-off adventure or want to start slow by comparison-shopping our picks, there's a cost-conscious option for you, too: Insta-famous drag queen and outdoors advocate Pattie Gonia suggests going for a rental. “Instead of buying new, there are so many ways to be an environmental queen by thrifting a bag or renting one. REI offers so many fantastic rental options for day backpacks and bigger backpacking options, and will help fit you to one, just like a ski boot, for the perfect match.”
Ready to gear up? Read on to find the best hiking backpacks for every level of hiker, from day bags and parent-friendly packs to multi-day workhorses, plus answers to some commons FAQs.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Megan Spurrell and Meaghan Kenny.
Though they might look similar in form and function, the truth is that there’s a world of difference between a hiking-specific backpack and your run-of-the-mill book bag. For starters, hiking backpacks tend to be made of durable, water-repellent nylon that’s woven in a ripstop pattern (meaning that if your rucksack snags on a boulder, the tear isn’t likely to grow).
A good hiking pack will also feature adventure-specific pockets and features for things like a water bladder, snacks, a climbing helmet, trekking poles, ice axes, and/or water bottles.
When you’re doing research for the perfect pack, it’s key to look at the size, ventilation, and pockets. A smaller backpack for quick day hikes can be ultralight, holding 15–30 liters, and offer space for simple comforts like your water and a jacket. A larger backpack for overnight trekking should be in the 50–70 liter range, have a hip belt to help distribute the load, and will vary in weight, depending on how much support and suspension you desire.
Next, it’s important to think about what kinds of activities you’re likely to be using the pack for. A climbing pack will be streamlined, to avoid snags, with an ice axe and helmet carry system, while a backpacking bag will offer plenty of accessible space for a sleeping bag, tent, and kitchen kit.
Lastly, think about what climate you typically hike in. If you’re planning to slog uphill on a sunny multi-day in a humid location, consider splurging on a brand with specially-designed ventilation. The extra padding might add weight to a backpack’s design, but it’s worth it for a comfortable carry.
Most hikers will find that a 50–60 liter pack is all that they need for a three-day weekend adventure, unless they’re trekking in wintertime or in a national park that requires bear canisters for food storage. Sizing up to a 65- or 70-liter pack for puffy layers and a large load might be necessary if you’re overnighting in Yosemite or Rocky Mountain; just make sure it’s got a comfy hip belt for that extra weight.
Bag weight: 2 lbs. Capacity: 20 liters Maximum suggested load: 20 lbs.
According to freelance adventure writer Heather Balogh Rochfort, the Osprey Tempest 20 is as solid as it gets. “It has lots of pockets and features that make it really easy to use, but it sits comfortably and takes a beating,” she says of the 20L bag that manages to pack two water bottle holders, hip belt stash pockets, and a LidLock bike helmet attachment into its small size. The design also boasts a hydration reservoir sleeve and an external mesh pouch for stowing wet or grimy gear.
Bag weight: 9.5 oz. Capacity: 18L Maximum suggested load: 15 lbs.
This light, frameless day pack is a favorite of The Venture Out Project's director of operations Travis Clough. “It's so packable that it can fit in your pocket when it's empty. This backpack can literally go anywhere,” says Clough, who has taken it on day hikes, cross-country skiing trips, to the 48 high peaks in New Hampshire, and even to hold six-packs on summer afternoon bike rides to a friend's house. “I’ve had mine for years and it’s still going strong,” he says.
Bag weight: 10.6 oz. Capacity: 18L
You don't have to be outdoorsy to love this Cotopaxi bag, says former Traveler editor Stephanie Wu. You don't even have to reserve it for hiking trips. “My Cotopaxi backpack has become my go-to for any type of adventurous outing. It's incredibly lightweight, and was clearly designed by people who love to travel. There's a compartment for my water bottle on the side, and an off-center zipper on the front that is great for when you need to reach for your passport or phone, and only want to take your backpack off one shoulder,” she says. Plus, every backpack is different—they're made out of leftover bits of fabric, so the colors and zipper liners are unique from one bag to the next.
Bag weight: 1 lb. 10 oz. Capacity: 26L
A super lightweight pack, relative to its volume, Osprey’s Hikelite 26 is as at home on the trail as it is in town, boasting a low-profile design with compression straps, side pouches for water bottles, and an extra-stretchy mesh compartment to separate a rain jacket or microspikes from the rest of your kit. Travel journalist Stephanie Vermillion loves it for its ventilated back panel and scratch-resistant front pocket, adding, “this an excellent addition given I've ruined many sunglasses by stashing them in my pack.”
Bag weight: 2.5 lbs. Capacity: 20L
Drinking enough water is crucial, even if your planned adventure is a mellow stroll through the woods. Hipcamp founder and CEO Alyssa Ravasio says that she always grabs her Camelbak Hawg hydration pack before heading out on a quick escape. “For overnights to glamping getaways like this one, it’s a comfortable mid-sized pack with lots of functional organization and–most importantly–solid hydration,” she says. Plus, with its padded harness and Air Director back panel, it’s comfy enough for all-day wear too.
Bag weight: 14 oz. Capacity: 22L
Recently redesigned to feature a larger top stash pocket, double cinch straps, and a padded hip belt, REI Co-Op’s Flash 22 is an epic daypack for hikers who don’t want to break the bank. Rue Mapp, founder of Outdoor Afro and author of Nature Swagger, says it’s her favorite “all-around backpack for morning to afternoon hikes. As a safety bonus, it even has a whistle.” Other notable features? Mapp says the pack has the perfect amount of room for snacks and light layers.
Bag weight: 2 lbs. 5 oz. (XS/S); 2 lbs. 8 oz. (M/L) Capacity: 32L (XS/S); 34L (M/L) Maximum suggested load: 25 lbs.
Ask any group of hikers what their favorite backpack is, and you’re likely to hear a chorus of “Osprey.” That’s because the company, which stitches its goods with Bluesign-approved materials, pairs excellent on-the-go features (think trekking pole attachments, perfectly-sized hip pockets, and external hydration sleeves) with its All Mighty Guarantee—a promise to repair or replace any damage or defect, free of charge, forever. The women-specific Tempest might just be the brand’s best daypack yet, with a lightweight frame, AirScape vented back panel, and top-loading main compartment. It comes in a men’s variety, the Talon.
Bag weight: 1 lb. 8 oz. Capacity: 23L
Hiking with kids doesn't just mean an extra person to keep an eye on—it means doubling up on gear as well. Shanti Hodges, the founder of Hike It Baby, swears by the Deuter Speedlite pack. “I use this as my go-to for day hikes, because I am often carrying a lot if I have my kid in tow. This means water for both of us, snacks and lunch, potentially extra clothing, and a first aid kit. This pack is light, but still has a lot of padding in the shoulders so I get the support I need. This bag has been through all kinds of weather with me as well and it always stays dry inside, which is really important if you are hiking in the Pacific Northwest like I am.”
Bag weight: 2 lbs. 15 oz. Capacity: 28L
Recommended by the founder of Out There Adventures, Elyse Rylander, this bag sits in the middle of the pack, size-wise. Efficient packers can even use it for multi-day adventures—Rylander's sister traveled for three months in Southeast Asia with just the Gregory Jade 28-liter. Adjustable straps help it fit to your torso length, and the OpenAir ventilated back panel increases breathability. This backpack also meets carry-on restrictions for most airlines, making it a great option for those traveling light.
Bag weight: 2 lbs 10 oz. Capacity: 53–57L Maximum suggested load: 30 lbs.
Every time I ask my most adventurous friends what their favorite budget backpacking pack is, I’m met with a resounding chorus lauding the REI Flash 55 Pack. So, it was no surprise that this tried-and-true bag was outdoor writer Bernadette Rankin’s top pick when it comes to hiking backpacks, namely because of its comfortable hip belt and fabulous pockets. “When I want to hike along my local Pacific Northwest trails or aim for a longer overnight backpacking trip to Olympic National Park, REI’s Flash 55 is my go-to pack to confidently carry everything I need,” she says.
Bag weight: 5 lbs. Capacity: 70L Maximum suggested load: 45 lbs.
Finding the right fit for your torso is crucial when you’re going to be crunching your boots along wilderness trails for days on end, and Rochfort says she adores Deuter for its well-ventilated, smartly-sized packs. “The back panel is super breathable, so I don't feel quite as gross when I'm huffing and puffing up a mountain,” she says of this 60L rucksack that comes with a 10L removable top “brain” pocket. “Plus, the pack is made with 50 percent recycled material and is PFC-free, so it's a bit better for the environment than older backpacks,” she says.
Bag weight: 1 lb. 13 oz.–2 lbs. 2 oz. (S, M, L sizes available) Capacity: 60L Maximum suggested load: 35 lbs.
When you want to go big, sometimes you’ve got to go ultralight. Weighing in at just two pounds, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa is a time-tested favorite on massive thru hikes like the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails. Brian Beckstead, adventurer and co-founder of Altra Footwear, loves its “blend of comfort, functionality, weight, and simplicity.” Meanwhile, Jennifer Pharr Davis, author and owner of Blue Ridge Hiking Company, is a fan of the customizable torso lengths and hip belt options so that every hiker can find the fit that works for them.
Bag weight: 5 lbs. Capacity: 65L Maximum suggested load: 45 lbs.
Jenny Bruso, the founder of Unlikely Hikers, helped create a line of plus-size hiking gear designed to allow every adventurer to take on any trail feeling confident and supported. This Katmai 65-liter pack comes with extended length shoulder straps and hip belts, plus additional fit revisions to accommodate larger body shapes and sizes. Made with recycled fabrics, it has seven pockets, a trekking pole attachment, and a sleeping bag compartment.
Bag weight: 4.8 lbs. Capacity: 52L (XS/S); 55L (M/L) Maximum suggested load: 60 lbs.
”I love the 55-liter Osprey Ariel pack. This pack is designed for women (or anyone with narrower shoulders) which means a more comfortable, chafe-free fit. Even better? The pockets on the belt clip are the perfect size for a phone,” blogger Liz Carlson, the founder of Young Adventuress, says. Part of the backpack can also be zipped off and used as a handy day pack, perfect for side trips in the middle of longer journeys.
Bag weight: 3 lbs. 10 oz. (S/M); 3 lbs. 13 oz. (L/XL) Capacity: 55L
The North Face Terra Backpack is another great mid-size option for weekend-long trips. Its back panel features cushy foam and breathable mesh for extra comfort during long days. The Terra also uses a Dyno Lift System with adjustable load lifters and a pivoting hip belt for a more steady, comfortable hike.
Bag weight: 3 lbs. (regular); 3 lbs. 2 oz. (tall) Capacity: 60L Maximum suggested load: 50 lbs.
Perry Cohen, the founder of The Venture Out Project, started using this bag in 2019 and can't imagine switching to anything else. “This is the only all-gender pack I’ve found in this size or quality, and it's fully adjustable to fit many different body types. It’s ultralight, but doesn’t compromise comfort or capacity,” he says. A side zip lets you access your gear without unpacking everything from the top and the top of the pack (or, as some hikers call it, ”the brain”), unclips and combines with the detachable hip belt to create a fanny pack for short day hikes.
Bag weight: 4 lbs. Capacity: 38.3L
Half sleek travel backpack, half sturdy adventure duffel, this 38-liter bag is small enough to tote as a carry-on for most flights, yet just the right size to stash a week’s worth of clothing, if you pack smartly. “[This] is the perfect travel backpack,” says Emmy-nominated clean beauty expert and travel writer Karim Orange. “It has the convenience of sitting on your back but opening like a traditional suitcase, keeping everything neat and in order.” She also mentioned loving its noteworthy laptop and water bottle compartments.
Bag weight: 2 lbs. Capacity: 30L
Though it may look like a sleek commuter pack at first glance (the laptop sleeve and lack of bulky outer pockets make it great for streamlined city and airport travel), the Fjällräven Ulvö 30 proved surprisingly robust when I spent a year van-lifing and visiting every national park in the US. A zippered mesh pocket on the interior helped hold my valuables, like keys and a wallet, and the bigger outer pouch was just large enough to stash snacks and a beanie. My only note? For longer hikes, I’d love a padded hip belt.
Bag weight: 2 lbs. Capacity: 30L
Though it may look like a sleek commuter pack at first glance (the laptop sleeve and lack of bulky outer pockets make it great for streamlined city and airport travel), the Fjällräven Ulvö 30 proved surprisingly robust when I spent a year van-lifing and visiting every national park in the US. A zippered mesh pocket on the interior helped hold my valuables, like keys and a wallet, and the bigger outer pouch was just large enough to stash snacks and a beanie. My only note? For longer hikes, I’d love a padded hip belt.
Bag weight: 1 lb. 6 oz. Capacity: 20L
“I love how colorful Topo's bags are. From bumblebee yellows to cerulean blues and more, you will never lose a Topo bag,” says writer and world traveler Keith Langston. That’s certainly true with the Rover Pack Classic, which seamlessly blends the design of a vintage book bag with modern functionality (like an internal laptop sleeve, expandable side pockets, water resistance, and eco-friendly recycled nylon fabric). “With this backpack, I've hiked through tea fields in China, along a volcano in Costa Rica, and to a waterfall in Bali. It also has a fantastic closure system, with both a drawstring and buckles, which allows me to easily loosen or tighten the bag, making it great when I need to totally stuff the thing,” says Langston.
Bag weight: 1 lb. Capacity: 25L
Of course, there are those adventures that promise to get wet and wild, like traipsing through tropical monsoons in Thailand or snorkeling in Cozumel. For travel on boats or in rainy climates, I heartily recommend Exped’s Typhoon 25 Pack, which, apart from being ultra-lightweight and fully waterproof, is also constructed with durable, recycled nylon fabric. Daisy chains on the outside of the pack make storing additional gear a cinch (bring your own cord), and two stretchy side pouches allow you to quickly store a water bottle, trekking poles, or an extra jacket.
Bag weight: 3 lbs. 10 oz. Capacity: 45L
For those that need a bigger travel bag that just as smoothly transitions from city jaunts to camping excursions, spanning weekend to week-long trips, Patagonia's convertible model is an easy favorite. ”I just got the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack and I'm already obsessed—I had trouble finding a midsize pack I loved before this one,” says Faith E. Briggs, a documentary filmmaker and an ambassador for Brown Folks Fishing. ”I love Patagonia in general because they are the most thoroughly sustainable outdoor company: They repair everything, so whenever I buy from them I feel like I have a lifetime guarantee, which justifies the price.” The ultra-durable waterproof body, made from recycled materials, also fits most carry-on requirements and fits easily on the handles of your rolling luggage as it does slung over your shoulder, or strapped on your back on a backcountry trek. Talk about multitasking.
Bag weight: 2 lbs. 10.6 oz. Capacity: 24L
From day-long snowshoeing excursions to backcountry ski trips, Gregory’s Targhee 24 is an excellent snow pack. Designed to help you organize your winter-specific gear, this hard-working backpack features a front zip pouch for avalanche safety and rescue items, an insulated shoulder hydration sleeve, and a deployable helmet carry system. Tack on the bag’s bungee-style ice tool carry system and its ability to easily stow skis or a splitboard, and you’ll see why it’s my new go-to for all things winter recreation.
Bag weight: 3.2 lbs. Capacity: 27L (zipped up); 33L (expanded)
Thoughtfully designed by camera-toting adventure lovers, Peak Design’s Travel Backpack looks as at home traipsing through downtown Athens as it does on a mountainous trail. With theft-deterrent zipper pulls, a weatherproof shell made of 100 percent recycled nylon canvas, and expandable side pockets for tripods or water bottles, the bag seamlessly blends sensible city features with rugged outdoor necessities. Pair it with a set of the brand’s camera cubes for optimal protection and organization.
Bag weight: 3.3 lbs. Capacity: 32L
If you're trekking with photography gear, this bag will get you and your tripod wherever you need to go. “The F-Stop Lotus is the best adventure camera pack for day hikes and one night trips,” says Carlson. “It’s a bit smaller than their normal Tilopa, which is really designed for those with broader shoulders. With the Lotus, you can also attach plenty of gear to the outside, from a tripod to a sleeping bag to a snowboard (seriously).” F-Stop also sells a system of padded compartments for your cameras and lenses, so you can customize the interior of the bag based on your existing gear.
By Madison Flager and Paris Wilson
By Madison Flager and Kristi Kellogg
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