I’m sharing the best hiking backpacks for every budget. Plus, how to know what backpack features are essential for your hike or trek and which ones just add unwanted extra weight.
I’ve been hiking for over 20 years in the Canadian Rockies, Alps, Kilimanjaro and most recently in the Pirin Mountains in Bulgaria, so trust me when I say that I’ve had my share of backpacks.
It’s through trial and error and experimenting with different types of hikes that I’ve learned what to look for in a backpack.
I currently have three different backpacks, although admittedly, I only need two.
If you’re planning on doing different types of hikes, like a multi-day trek like our Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc hiking tour, or you need a different one than if you’re doing day hikes, or one like our Kilimanjaro tour where you only need your daypack, since the rest of your hiking gear is carried for you.
Below our recommendations, you’ll find more info on the above features to consider so that you can choose the best hiking backpack for you.
Best Hiking Backpacks
To make it easy for you, we’ve curated our backpack recommendations on our Amazon List. You’ll find everything from the:
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best hiking backpacks for women
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best hiking backpacks for men
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top unisex hiking backpacks
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recommended hiking backpacks for kids
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best budget hiking backpacks
And if you’re looking for full packing lists, you can also find our Day Hiking Packing List on Amazon and our Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List on Amazon, along with hiking outfits and more hiking gear recommendations that you’ll find on our main page.
4 Tips for Choosing the Right Hiking Backpack
1. Choose the Right Size of Backpack For Your Hike
You’ll find a wide range of hiking backpack sizes. Use our guideline to find the right one for the hike that you’re doing:
- Day hike: 20 – 35 L backpack
- 1 – 3 night hike: 30 – 50 L backpack
- 3 – 5 night hike: 40 – 60 L backpack
- 5+ nights trek: 55- 85 L backpack
Backpacking Trips: 55 – 85 L Hiking Backpack
You’ll want to choose a hiking backpack from our Amazon list that’s between 55 to 85 L. I realize that’s a large range, but it depends on how long your trip is and how much gear you need.
If you’re going with a hiking buddy, and you can split carrying the gear, you’ll need much less than if you’re carrying it all yourself.
Backpacks of this size is a balancing act between weight and size. I’d always choose a high-quality backpack for these types of adventures since you need hiking gear that you know can perform well.
Related Reading: Trekking and Hiking Tours in Europe
2. Find a Hiking Backpack That Fits Right For You
No two bodies are created the same so it’s important to have a hiking backpack that fits you correctly. Here are some ways to check that it’s the right fit:
- Check that the backpack that fits your torso. Make sure that it’s long enough but not too long. It’s a little bit like Goldilocks choosing the right bed.
- Consider your body size. If you have a small frame, a women’s backpack may be a good choice since they’re usually shorter and narrower. Conversely, if you’re tall or have a larger frame, consider a man’s hiking backpack.
- Check the size of the waist strap. Generally speaking, the larger the waist strap, the more it will reduce shoulder strain. Ideally you want around 80% of your backpack’s weight to be supported by your hips. Trust me, your shoulders will thank you after a long day of hiking.
I once made the mistake of choosing a lightweight backpack that only offered a flimsy hip belt and my shoulders ached for several days after, even on day hikes. This article from Harvard University has more tops on how to find the right backpack for hiking that’s the right fit for you.
Related Reading: Best Travel Backpacks: Our Top Picks For Every Budget
3. Choose the Right Backpack Frame
For most hikers, I’d recommend an internal-frame backpack. They keep you stable on uneven terrain and many include load-supporting technology that transfers the weight to your hips.
If you’re carrying an irregular load like an inflatable kayak, an external-frame backpack could be a good choice.
Frameless backpacks are a good choice if the most important thing to you is keeping your load light. But these are best for day hikes and if you’re not carrying a heavy load.
Related Reading: 16 Best Child Carrier Backpacks
4. Decide Which Hiking Backpack Features Are Essential
The more gadgets on your hiking backpack the heavier it will be. Decide what’s essential for you depending on the type of hiking that you’ll be doing. If you don’t need certain features, it’s better to choose a pack that doesn’t have them since they add extra weight:
- Pockets
I think side pockets are essential, but others are often not necessary. I honestly prefer zippered side entry pockets. However, it will depend on how you hike and what you carry. For example, I like having a place for my trail logbook in stretch pockets so that it doesn’t get wrecked. - Padding
It makes your hiking backpack more comfortable, especially for longer trips but adds weight so you have to find a balance. - Attachment points
I.e. gear loops for hiking poles, etc. Consider how many you need. I personally just use the ones for hiking poles and don’t need them anymore. - Integrated Hydration Reservoir
Hydration bladder and hydration sleeves are essential if you hike with a Camelback or similar water reservoir. I personally hike with a water reservoir and a water bottle, as I prefer having at least two different sources of water. - Removable daypack/top lid
It may be nice on larger packs but it’s not necessary on smaller ones. Think whether you’ll really use this feature. Otherwise it’s just adding extra weight to your hiking backpack. - Sleeping bag compartment
This compartment makes life much easier if you’re planning on doing overnight hikes or backpacking trips, but just adds extra weight if you’re only doing day trips. - Rain covers
These are a must-have for any type of hiking backpack. Most come with an integrated raincover which is what I recommend.
Recommended Reading: 18 Best Women’s Hiking Leggings
Best Hiking Backpack Brands
Osprey was founded in 1974 and the headquarters are located in California, USA They offer a lifelong guarantee so your hiking backpack is eligible for repairs or a replacement. Plus, Osprey backpacks are very comfortable. This is a top choice for many avid hikers that I know.
Gregory Packs was founded in 1977 and the headquarters are located in California, USA. This brand is well known for the quality and sturdiness of its backpacks. Gregory has a zero policy for modern slavery in its supply chain which I love. Gregory Paragon, Gregory Optic, and Gregory Maven are some of their other popular hiking backpacks too.
Arcteryx was founded in 1991 and its headquarters are located in North Vancouver, Canada. Arcteryx builds hiking backpacks to last to minimize the negative environmental impact. They do this through responsible manufacturing, and community engagement.
Deuter was founded in 1898 and the headquarters are located in Germany. Their backpacks are award-winning due to the strong materials that they use. They are also a member of Bluesign. The world’s strictest standard for environmental protection. I’m a big fan of Deuter as are tons of my friends who have lived in Germany for years.
REI Co-op started in 1955 as a small co-operative in Seattle selling equipment specializing in gear for hikers, serious climbers and mountaineers under their own labels. Over the years, REI continues to foster a feeling of community, belonging, and inclusivity.
Recommended Reading: Alta Via 1 Hiking Tour in Dolomites Italy Entire, North or South Route
Now you have my recommended best hiking backpacks for every budget and know what features to look for when you buy your next one. I really like Osprey and Deuter for their functionality and durability.
