Factors to consider when picking out the best hiking backpack
With the help of this article, you'll know exactly what to look for when picking out the best backpack for your hiking adventures...
Comfort
Cost
Weight
Durability
Frame
Volume
Material
The Cool Factor
Comfort is crucial
The most important factor when choosing a hiking backpack is to pick something that is comfortable.
If you are carrying a heavy load in your pack you will definitely 100% need a hip belt so that you can take the majority of the weight onto your hips rather than having it hanging off your shoulders and straining your back.
I've carried 20kg over eighteen days for hundreds of kilometers relatively comfortably as I had picked a backpacking backpack with a really well designed, well-padded, back and hip belt. In my opinion, the most comfortable hiking pack is going to have a ventilated back, a thick and comfortable hip-belt and the ability to adjust in several places.
You get what you pay for
I'll level with you right now-the more you spend, the better a hiking backpack you will get.
Quality hiking backpacks are not cheap and whilst there are some good value options on the market, it's best to think of this purchase as an investment. I recommend spending a bit more so that you can buy a hiking backpack with a lifetime guarantee-that way you can be sure it will last forever!
In my opinion, it's worth spending the extra money and choosing an Osprey hiking pack as that way your backpack will be covered by Osprey's almighty guarantee-meaning they will repair or replace it, no matter what happens. However, note that there are some exceptions to the All-Mighty Guarantee. They will not fix airline damage, accidental damage, hard use, wear & tear or damp related damage. Still, it's a lot better than most guarantees on the market.
Go for something lightweight
You want your backpack to be as lightweight as possible whilst still being incredibly tough and durable. I once had an ultralight backpack but it broke pretty quickly as it just couldn't stand the wear and tear of being thrown around.
The best backpacking backpacks are lightweight anyway so this isn't such a big concern. If this is a big concern for you, choose a daypack for hiking instead.
You want a tough backpack for backpacking
You want to choose a rough and tough pack that can take a beating and still come out smiling. These days, most backpacks are tough but you want to find something that is also water-resistant to keep your stuff from getting soaked during sudden downpours.
No matter how tough your pack is it will eventually get damaged if you use it constantly-I live out of my backpack-so again, try to pick a hiking backpack with a lifetime warranty.
Internal frame backpacks are best
I always recommend going for a backpack with an internal frame. The best backpacks for hiking have the rods that support it built into the bag instead of outside of it, which makes it super practical and easy to carry.
External frames make your bag heavier and, believe me when you are hiking in the wild, the last thing you want is a bulky, complicated backpacking backpack to slow you down. Pack light and you won't need a big frame!
Volume is key
Contrary to popular belief: go small or go home. It doesn't matter if you think you are a light packer, if you carry around a big backpack, chances are it is going to be filled eventually with tons of stuff you don't actually need.
Choosing a more minimalist backpack will help you to economize space and keep your luggage light.
If you are hiking in a snowy area you might want to go a size up, but otherwise, the best backpacks for hiking should be between 40-50L. Personally, I have one 70l hiking backpack for big expeditions and a smaller 30l backpack for day hikes.
Material can make or break...
If you are into hiking, you should know that, eventually, you will need to face the elements. Rain, heat or even snow, everything can happen when you are out there in the wilderness.
Therefore, choosing the right material is crucial when you are planning to buy one of the best backpacks for hiking.
Light and resistant materials like Dyneema are ideal, especially because this fabric is water-resistant. It can be more pricey than other fabrics like nylon, but it is worth the investment, I promise!
The sexy-factor!
If you are already putting some money on one of the best backpacks for hiking out there, at least you want to make you that it looks good on you. There are plenty of options regarding colour and style, so choose one that makes you feel sexy... Well, as sexy as you can feel in the middle of a muddy jungle!
