The 11 Best Hiking Backpacks (2020)
As a ten-year world traveler and experienced hiker, I've personally tried every one of the hiking backpacks in this post on different hikes and expeditions.In this article, I assess the best hiking packs for you. I lay out my top picks for my favorite hiking backpacks, and I'll introduce you to my favourite outdoor gear company.
With the help of this article, you'll know exactly what to look for when picking out the best backpack for your hiking adventures...
These are my top hiking backpack recommendations. Let's dive in.
I swear by Osprey backpacks. They simply make the best backpacks around-period.
Osprey has consistently put out some of the best bags on the market, and the Aether (for men) and the Ariel (for the ladies) are two of Osprey's flagship backpacking backpacks.
The Aether/Ariel have all the advantages of every Osprey pack (all-mighty guarantee, durability, comfort), but the models are slightly smaller which makes it the best backpack for hiking if you are planning a short escapade.
For men-the Aether 85 pack is better if you prefer to carry some extra gear on your trekking trips, but 95% of the time I could easily get away with the space in the Aether 70l backpack on my hikes. If you prefer something a bit smaller, check out the Osprey Talon 33 or for the ladies, check out the Osprey Sirrus 36.
If you are in the market for an ultralight, versatile, no bullshit backpack for backpacking or your next hiking trip or long-term travel adventure, look no further than the Osprey Exos 58 - one of the best Osprey backpacks around!
This is technically a minimalist backpack, weighing in at just 2.7 pounds. However, I would say it is on the larger side of the spectrum for the category. It does not have all of the bells and whistles nor the weight of a hiking pack that weighs 2 or 3 times its size.
The light wire alloy frame offers great support even when carrying loads up to 40 pounds. The AirSpeed 3-D tensioned mesh back panel was designed with the purpose of meeting all of your free-flowing air needs and offers great ventilation to keep your back cool. There are a solid 5 inches of air space between where your back sits and the frame of the backpack! Say goodbye to the swamp back blues!
Ok, so this is not a super light backpack, however, it made it to the list because it is super comfortable (maybe even one of the most comfortable hiking packs in existence) and well built for longer hikes.
The shoulder straps and waist belt are perfect for carrying heavy loads and its ventilation system keeps you cool and fresh, no matter the weather conditions, which makes it one of the best multi-day backpacks.
The Deuter Air comes with a detachable rain cover that will keep all your belongings dry and with dual zippered cargo pockets that are super resistant.
I recommend this pack for long trekking trips or for people who like to carry a lot of stuff but don't want to splash out on the Osprey Aether. The Deuter Air offers great value for your money and is the best budget backpack in this size category, plus it's tough as nails and can take a beating on any adventure.
This foldable backpack is the best daypack for hiking because it is extremely lightweight and easy to bring on the trails (at only 10oz), yet still durable enough to handle the elements. This is a great pack to bring along a multi-day trek for when you want to leave your base camp and explore the area around you.
With a 34 liter capacity you have PLENTY of space to bring extra water, food, layers, and the day hike essentials. I love that it offers 7 easy-access pockets and pouches to organize your belongings. Honestly, I haven't seen a foldable backpack with so much organization.
Finally, with each purchase, Active Roots donates to one of the several environmental charities they work with that help clean up our planet. If you don't love your foldable backpack, they have a 30-day money-back guarantee.
I've been using my REI Traverse for a while now as my go-to ultralight backpack for day hikes.
It's one hell of a pack and is the best budget hiking backpack I've come across. It's pretty cheap considering the quality and it has plenty of pockets for storage, a padded hip belt, a supportive yet breathable back panel, and a built-in rain cover.
It's the best 35L backpack around and is good for day hikes or ultralight hiking weekends rather than long trekking expeditions where you have to carry tents and food. It's hands down one of the best backpacks for hiking at the weekend...
