Hiking is an activity that requires proper preparation. A reliable backpack is crucial for comfort and safety. The best-rated hiking backpacks combine durability, comfort, capacity, and organization. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, investing in the right gear can make a big difference.
In this article, we will explore the best hiking backpacks currently available. We’ll consider factors such as size, weight, features, and user reviews. We’ll also highlight what makes these backpacks ideal for different hiking scenarios, whether you’re going for a day hike or a multi-day adventure.
1. Osprey Atmos AG 65
Key Features:
Capacity: 65 liters
Weight: 4.6 pounds (2.09 kg)
Best for: Multi-day hikes and backpacking
Suspension system: Anti-Gravity™
Material: Nylon
The Osprey Atmos AG 65 consistently ranks as one of the best backpacks for long-distance and multi-day hiking trips. Its standout feature is the Anti-Gravity™ suspension system, which provides excellent ventilation and comfort. The back panel molds to your body, distributing the weight evenly. This makes it feel like you’re carrying less than you actually are.
The large 65-liter capacity makes this backpack ideal for extended trips where you need to carry a lot of gear. The weight is well-managed, so even though it’s on the heavier side, it feels light on the back due to the efficient load distribution.
The pack is designed with various pockets and compartments, which make organizing your gear simple. The floating lid, internal hydration sleeve, and removable sleeping pad straps are just a few of the many features that make it versatile.
Pros:
- Anti-Gravity™ system for comfort
- Large capacity for multi-day trips
- Adjustable harness and hip belt
Cons:
- Heavier compared to some competitors
- Pricey
2. Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10
Key Features:
Capacity: 50 liters + 10 liters (expandable)
Weight: 4.6 pounds (2.09 kg)
Best for: Backpacking and alpine hiking
Suspension system: Aircontact back system
Material: Polyester and nylon
The Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10 is a versatile pack suitable for longer treks and alpine expeditions. It features the Aircontact Lite back system, which combines comfort and breathability. The system works by creating a ventilated space between your back and the backpack, reducing sweating during long hikes.
This pack is expandable, allowing you to carry additional gear if necessary. The “50+10” indicates a 50-liter base capacity with an additional 10 liters available via an extendable lid. This feature is particularly helpful for those who want flexibility in their packing.
The backpack has a V-frame design, which aids in even weight distribution. It also includes numerous pockets for easy access to essentials like water bottles and snacks. The removable hip belt and adjustable shoulder straps contribute to its comfort.
Pros:
- Expandable capacity for flexible packing
- Aircontact Lite system for ventilation
- Durable and rugged design
Cons:
- Less internal organization than some other models
- Can feel bulky for shorter trips
3. Gregory Baltoro 75
Key Features:
Capacity: 75 liters
Weight: 5.2 pounds (2.35 kg)
Best for: Multi-day backpacking trips
Suspension system: Response A3 suspension
Material: Nylon
The Gregory Baltoro 75 is designed for serious backpackers who need ample storage space and supreme comfort. With a 75-liter capacity, it’s perfect for long adventures where you need to carry camping gear, food, and water for multiple days.
One of the standout features is the Response A3 suspension system, which automatically adjusts to your body shape, providing excellent load balancing and stability. The LumbarTune feature allows for customized lower back support, which can be adjusted to your preferences. This makes the Baltoro 75 one of the most comfortable packs on the market for heavy loads.
The pockets and organization are another strong point. The front U-zip panel allows easy access to your gear without needing to dig through the top. It also has a sleeping bag compartment, hydration sleeve, and weather-resistant hip-belt pockets for items like phones and snacks.
Pros:
- High capacity for extended trips
- Customizable lumbar support
- Well-organized pockets and compartments
Cons:
- Heavy even when empty
- Expensive
4. Osprey Exos 58
Key Features:
Capacity: 58 liters
Weight: 2.7 pounds (1.22 kg)
Best for: Ultralight backpacking
Suspension system: AirSpeed™ suspension
Material: 100D High Tenacity Nylon
The Osprey Exos 58 is a lightweight backpack that is ideal for those who prioritize speed and efficiency on the trail. Weighing in at only 2.7 pounds, it’s perfect for ultralight backpackers who want to minimize their pack weight without sacrificing durability.
The AirSpeed™ suspension system provides excellent ventilation while keeping the pack snug and comfortable on your back. It includes a highly breathable mesh back panel that ensures airflow, reducing the chances of overheating on warm hikes.
Although it’s a lightweight pack, the Exos 58 still offers a decent amount of space and organization. It features a removable floating lid, a large front stretch pocket for quick access items, and side compression straps to stabilize your load. It’s also hydration compatible, with a sleeve that accommodates most standard water reservoirs.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Excellent ventilation
- Simple, minimalist design
Cons:
- Less padding on the hip belt
- Not ideal for carrying heavy loads
5. Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest
Key Features:
Capacity: 55 liters
Weight: 2 pounds (0.91 kg)
Best for: Ultralight and thru-hiking
Suspension system: Frameless design with padded back panel
Material: Dyneema® Composite Fabrics (DCF)
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest is one of the best-rated backpacks for ultralight hikers and thru-hikers. Weighing just 2 pounds, this backpack is made from Dyneema® Composite Fabric, which is extremely light but highly durable. This material is also waterproof, making the pack a great choice for wet conditions.
The 3400 Southwest has a minimalist design with a frameless structure, but it still offers good support and comfort. The padded back panel and contoured shoulder straps help distribute the weight evenly, which is essential for long days on the trail.
This pack excels in its simplicity. The main compartment is spacious, and it includes three external pockets for quick-access items. The roll-top closure provides some flexibility in how much gear you can carry, and the compression straps help secure the load.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and waterproof
- Simple design, ideal for ultralight hikers
- Durable material for rugged conditions
Cons:
- Limited internal organization
- Frameless design may lack support for heavier loads
6. The North Face Banchee 50
Key Features:
Capacity: 50 liters
Weight: 3 pounds (1.36 kg)
Best for: Lightweight backpacking
Suspension system: Dyno Lite System™
Material: Nylon
The North Face Banchee 50 is a lightweight pack that offers a good balance between comfort, capacity, and weight. Weighing just 3 pounds, it’s suitable for lightweight backpackers and those on shorter multi-day trips.
The Dyno Lite System™ suspension provides excellent load control and comfort without adding too much weight. The harness is adjustable, allowing users to tweak the fit based on their body type and load. The pack also has plenty of external storage options, including two stretch mesh water bottle pockets, two hip belt pockets, and tool attachment loops.
What sets this pack apart is its simplicity. It offers ample space for gear without overcomplicating the design. This makes it easy to load, unload, and organize. The material is highly durable, and the pack’s overall design allows for efficient movement.
Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Simple design with ample external storage
- Adjustable suspension system
Cons:
- Not as durable for heavy use
- Lacks some of the premium features found in more expensive models
SEE ALSO: What Is a Derny Bike?
7. Arc’teryx Bora AR 63
Key Features:
Capacity: 63 liters
Weight: 5.1 pounds (2.3 kg)
Best for: Multi-day hiking and backpacking
Suspension system: RotoGlide™ hipbelt and Tegris® frame
Material: AC² (Advanced Composite Construction)
The Arc’teryx Bora AR 63 is designed for serious hikers who need a durable and comfortable backpack for multi-day trips. It features the RotoGlide™ hipbelt, which allows for smooth movement of the hipbelt with your body. This minimizes friction and reduces discomfort during long hikes.
The Tegris® frame provides excellent structure and load support, helping the pack retain its shape even when fully loaded. The AC² fabric is water-resistant, making the Bora AR 63 suitable for wet or unpredictable conditions. The backpack also features taped seams to further protect against water.
With 63 liters of capacity, the Bora AR 63 can carry a substantial amount of gear. It has multiple compartments for easy organization, including a front kangaroo pocket and internal hydration sleeve.
Pros:
- Excellent suspension and load management
- Durable and weather-resistant material
- Well-organized compartments
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavier than some other backpacks in this category
Conclusion
Selecting the best-rated hiking backpack depends on your hiking style, the duration of your trips, and your preferences for comfort and features. Backpacks like the Osprey Atmos AG 65 and Gregory Baltoro 75 are ideal for multi-day treks where capacity and comfort are top priorities. For ultralight hikers, packs like the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest and Osprey Exos 58 offer excellent performance with minimal weight.
Regardless of your choice, ensure that the backpack fits well, has the right capacity, and offers features suited to your hiking needs. Consider testing the pack with a load before your trip to ensure it’s comfortable for extended use.