What are the Best Hiking Backpacks in 2023 ?

Whether you’re planning on heading out for a day hike of a multi-day trip, it’s essential that you have the best hiking gear, and the type of hiking backpack you use is quite possibly the most important choice you can make before setting out on your next adventure. The type of backpack you select can either make or break your trip.

Top 5 Best Hiking Backpacks For 2023

• Osprey Atmos AG 65

  Beautifully made, well featured and comfortable, making this our Best Overall Backpack

• Teton Sports Scout 3400

  Tough and inexpensive, with all the necessary basics makes this our Best Budget Hiking Backpack

• Osprey Aether AG 70

  Everything you could need for a long time on the trail makes this our Best Heavy Duty Thru-Hiking Backpack

• Gregory Deva 60

  Beautifully constructed with a woman’s frame in mind makes this our Best Hiking BackPack for Women

• Gregory Optic 48

  Missing a few features, but weighs an unbelievable 2.5lbs making this our Best Ultralight Pack

What To Consider When Buying A Backpack For Hiking

Choose the best gear that is suited for the intended activity and climate, and you’re sure to have a comfy, well-ventilated and well-balanced experience out on the trail. Choose the wrong backpack, and 2 hours into your unbelievably sweaty hike, your back and shoulders begin to ache. This is why choosing the best daypack is fundamental before setting out on an all-day or multi-day trip.

All of the outdoor gear in our reviews today have both a male and female option, with the exception of the Teton Sports 3400 unisex packs. The major differences between the male and female hiking gear on our list are the capacity, and the cut of the shoulder straps and hip belt.

Women’s packs are generally smaller in size by a few liters, and the shoulder straps and hip belts are shaped differently to better conform to the contour of a woman’s curves. The length of the backpack is also shorter to best fit a woman’s torso.

To help aid you in your hunt for the best hiking backpack, we’ve researched the ins and out of dozens of hiking backpacks, read countless gear reviews, and have selected what we found to be the top 5 best hiking backpacks around. We hope these gear reviews of our top recommendations will help you to make an informed decision when choosing the best backpack for hiking.

There are seemingly endless options of backpacks for hiking to pick from, and it can be a bit overwhelming to try and figure out which one to choose. Many of them may look similar in appearance, but when you take a peek inside, you’ll see that there are many between them. Picking the right backpack is an important part of planning your hike.

If you go for a pack that is too large, you’ll end up carrying around an unnecessarily bulky bag and added weight. Choose a pack that is too small, and you’ll find yourself overstuffing it and attaching anything you can to every available hook and strap to accommodate all of your gear, leaving it exposed to the elements (rain, snow, etc.) To save you a bit of grief and prevent that from happening, we’ve compiled a list of four questions you should ask yourself to make sure you select the best hiking backpack for you:

• Capacity: Is there enough storage space to carry all of my gear?
• Features: What type of frame, or compartment access works best for me? Is there a hydration bladder or side pockets for water bottles?
• Fit:Does the pack feature adjustable torso lengths and hip sizes?
• Climate:Will I primarily use this daypack in hot and humid, or cold conditions?

Capacity

Although the size and type of pockets and compartments vary from pack to pack, capacity and storage are pretty straightforward. There is a large main compartment and outer pockets, and lash points for holding additional gear and water bottles. Some of the more technical packs have pockets and additional storage stashed within the main compartment for better organizing your supplies.

The capacity of hiking backpacks tends to be a bit larger than daypacks, as they are generally used for all-day or overnight adventures. Even still, the capacity can vary widely, so it would be wise to make a checklist of all of the essentials and extras you plan to carry on your hike. You should also be sure to select a bag that will allow you to comfortably carry the amount of weight you plan to carry.

Use these descriptions to help gauge what size hiking backpack is best for you:

36 to 50 Liters: Most day packs aren’t large enough to accommodate all of your gear for a long trek or overnight trip, but packs in the 36-liter to 50-liter range are. In general, they are an ideal choice to accommodate sleeping pad and enough clothing and food for a 1 to 3-day hike.

51 to 75 Liters: Packs of this size are perfect for a multi-day trip. These packs provide you ample space for enough food and clothing for 3 to 5 nights. Hiking packs of this size are able to accommodate a sleeping bag or tent and may offer more technical features that are specialized for the specific climate you’ll be hiking in.

76 Liters and beyond: These backpacks are massive and provide you with enough storage to last 5 days or more out in the wild. They’re designed to hold an insane amount of food and gear, and they are usually used for professionally guided trips, or by hardcore, experienced hikers.

Features

When out for a day hike, an overly technical, bulky bag isn’t necessarily. The goal should be to find a pack with the right amount of space and storage to best suit your needs for an afternoon of exploring, not an entire weekend. An ideal daypack for hiking should be lightweight and compact enough that it won’t weigh you down, but still has enough technical features to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

Here is a list of a few common features of most daypacks:

Frame or Frameless

• Most hiking backpacks have an internal frame made of aluminum or other durable materials. These are best for making the pack a bit sturdier for supporting heavier loads. Other packs include plastic frames just to add structure to the bag, but packs with an aluminum frame tend to weigh more than ones with plastic frames, or frame-less ones.
• Frameless backpacks are usually found in smaller capacity hiking packs and are best suited for the minimalist hiker looking for lightweight storage for their hike. The lack of frame makes these packs less than ideal for heavy loads because they offer no support in taking the weight of the pack off of your back. Carrying a heavy frameless pack will make for an uncomfortable and possibly painful hike over time.

Waist belt

A load-bearing, padded waist belt is part of an advanced suspension system included on many daypacks, and it is meant to carry most of your pack’s weight. It also helps to stabilize your pack and hold it in place while hiking or climbing. By transferring the load to your hips, the waist belt provides comfort and relieves your shoulders from the majority of the weight, allowing your stronger leg muscles to do the heavy lifting. Waist belts are generally found on packs 25 liters and up.

Sternum Straps

Another important of the suspension system when searching for the best day pack, are the sternum straps. Like waistbelts, they also disperse the weight of the pack, preventing your shoulders from getting too overworked and sore. The sternum straps snap together in the center of your chest to keep the shoulder straps in place so that they don’t slide off of your shoulders.

Hydration

• Staying properly adequately hydrated is key to your comfort and performance while on a strenuous hike. You need to replace the fluids your body is expelling through your sweat. Inadequate hydration can lower your energy, cause dizziness or headaches.
• Just about all daypacks include one or two pockets to accommodate water bottles, and many of them also come with a hydration reservoir or have a hydration sleeve to add a reservoir. Hydration reservoirs are plastic or rubber bladders that can be filled with water. The water is easily accessible without having to stop and remove your pack, via a long tube that is connected to the shoulder strap on your pack. Hydration bladders are a convenient feature to have if you prefer to not fiddle water bottles inside, or on the sides of your pack.

Storage

• Regardless of what size pack you choose, make sure there is plenty of storage for any gear, hydration or food you may need on your hike. A great pack should offer several different storage solutions, zippered and mesh pockets, and lash points for attaching gear. In addition to the main compartment and pockets, there should also be external storage, allowing you quick access to any frequently used items like water bottles, a map or trekking poles.

Mesh Ventilation

• Many daypacks have a ventilated back panel made of mesh that helps to promote airflow and keep your back nice and cool while out on the trail. This panel allows the pack to float a few inches off of your back to prevent sweating, which usually happens when a pack rides directly against your back.

Rain cover

• Some daypacks include or have an optional rain cover to help protect your bag from the elements. Many hiking packs are also made from water-resistant materials.

Fit

Most hiking packs are unisex, but there are also models specific to men and women’s frames. Women’s packs have a shorter torso range, and the hip belts and shoulder straps are contoured to fit a woman’s frame. Women’s packs also have a slightly smaller capacity and are available in brighter colors. Many of these packs come in various sizes and have adjustable straps and hip widths to ensure the comfortable fit possible. The waist belt should sit slightly above the center of your hips, and be tightened for a snug fit. The shoulder straps should be tightened until there is no gap between your shoulders and the pack.

Climate

You should also consider the type of conditions that you’ll primarily be exposing your outdoor gear to. Hot and humid, or cold and snowy? A lot of packs are constructed out of certain materials and include features based on the intended use and climate they’ll be exposed to.

For hot and humid weather, you’ll most certainly prioritize finding a pack with a comfortable mesh back panel to keep you cool and comfortable. When hiking in cold weather, your focus should be on finding a pack made of water-resistant materials, or one that includes a rain cover.

Best Hiking BackPack Reviews

Now you know what to look for and the criteria we have gone into more detail below on our picks.

So, without further ado, let’s get to it!

Best Hiking BackPack for Women – Gregory Deva 60

The award-winning Gregory Deva 60 and it’s male counterpart the Gregory Baltoro 65, are some of the best packs for carrying heavy loads on a long weekend adventure. They allow you to carry up to 50 pounds of weight comfortably, and both the Gregory Deva 60 and Gregory Baltoro 65 have enough features to impress even the most seasoned hiker.

The Deva 60 has long been one of the best hiking backpacks for weekend getaways and expeditions. Constructed with a woman’s frame in mind, the harness and hip belt on this piece of gear are pre-curved. The moisture-wicking, air mesh back panel, and shoulder straps are well padded for maximum comfort, but a downside to all of the padding is the added weight it gives the pack.

The A3 suspension system on this gear is one of the best, it helps with weight distribution and keeps it stable when trekking through rough, uneven terrain. A3 stands for Auto Angle Adjust, which means that the shoulder straps and the hip belt follow the movement of your body as you hike.

This results in less muscle fatigue because you won’t feel the need to overcorrect your balance when on your varying terrain. Not only does the A3 suspension to make this backpack extremely comfortable to carry, it also helps to prevent sore spots and chaffing which commonly occurs with more rigid packs.

A tubular aluminum frame maintains the shape of the backpack, and a layered mesh and foam panel helps to keep your back cool. The Deva 60 also has the added luxury of a removable lumbar pad for added support and comfort. The main storage area of this backpack is accessible in 3 different ways, through the top lid with drawstring enclosure, by full front U-zip or via the bottom sleeping bag compartment, which includes a removable divider.

Within the main compartment is a hydration sleeve that can be removed and used as a summit hiking pack. The front stretch pocket is perfect for keeping wet clothes or an extra layer, and dual hip-belt pockets are big enough for a smartphone or snacks. There are several bungee loops and lash points to attach a helmet, trekking poles or other gear to this trekking backpack.

The lid on this hiking gear has a storage capacity of 7 liters and is also where you’ll find the included rain cover and a ring to stash your keys. There is a large stretch mesh pocket on either, one perfect for carrying an extra pair of shoes, and the other is large enough to hold up a 32 oz water bottle, it’s also angled for easy reach around access.

The Deva is a versatile hiking backpack, best for multi-sport adventures, and weekend backpacking trips. Although its a bit pricy and on the heavier side, this luxury backpack contains features that many other lighter, and cheaper, packs do not.

Best Budget Hiking Backpack – Teton Sports Scout 3400

Tough and inexpensive, the unisex Teton 3400 is the best backpack for the novice hiker. It lacks all the bells and whistles found on more technical hiking packs, but it provides you with all the necessary basics needed for a night or two of trekking. This is a top-loading hiking pack with a drawstring closure, covered by a panel and secured by two buckles.

There is room in the main compartment of this 55-liter hiking backpack to accommodate a hydration system and there is a small opening in the back for the hose. For added hydration options there are pockets on either side of this back to accommodate a 1-liter bottle. Above the elastic pockets are zippered pockets on either side for storing small items.

The Sports Scout 3400 features foam padding along the upper and lower back, as well as around the hips, but the belt doesn’t fully contour to your hips. The shoulder straps can be a bit stiff and abrasive, but maybe they will get more comfortable after extended use, like breaking in a new pair of shoes?

There are elastic drawstrings on both the front and the top of the lid for attaching shoes or an extra layer. The lower straps are great for attaching a tent or sleeping pad, and there are also lash points for attaching an ice ax or trekking poles.

A zippered pocket just below the elastic drawstrings is large enough for a tarp, extra layer, and a hammock. The front mesh pocket is a bit small, but still large enough to store things like a map, or a few nutrition bars, and a velcro-sealed compartment on the bottom of the bag is where you’ll find the attached rain cover.

Although it’s not as technical as the other hiking packs on our list, the Teton Sports 3400 is a capable hiking backpack with all of the necessary features for day hikes or an overnight trek.

Specifications:

• 55-liter capacity
• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Internal frame for added support
• Multi-position torso adjustments fit a wide range of body sizes
• Padded waist straps with wide locking hip straps
• Sturdy 600D ripstop and Oxford Canvas shell
• Lower compression straps
• Side and lower gear loops to store poles, and ice ax or helmet
• Large side zippered pockets with weather-guard zippers
• Contoured, adjustable, padded shoulder straps
• Foam lumbar pad
• Separate sleeping bag compartment for easy access
• Hydration system compatible up to 3-Liters
• Rain cover included

Pros:

• Low-priced
• Best for day hikes or a quick overnight trip
• Made of durable ripstop canvas
• The lower front compression straps can secure a sleeping bag, sleeping pad or tent
• This unisex hiking backpackpack can be adjusted to fit various frames
• Adjustable to different torso lengths
• Offers plenty of storage, and functionality for an overnight trek
• Attached rain cover to keep your gear nice dry

Cons:

• Heavy for its size at a weight of 4.5 pounds
• Not ideal for a serious multi-day trip
• Shoulder straps are stiff and may lack comfort with extended wear

Best Heavy Duty Thru-Hiking Backpack – Osprey Aether AG 70

The Anti-Gravity suspension on the Osprey Aether AG 70 is one of the best top of the line choices for the serious backpacker. This durable hiking backpack allows you to comfortably carry heavy loads of up to 60 pounds of weight while on a big thru-hiking trip. This 70-liter technical hiking backpack was made with the serious backpacker in mind, it has a customizable fit, a generous amount of storage, and loads of features.

The lid of this top-loading zippered access hike backpack has two main compartments, a large one and a smaller one perfect for keeping your wallet, keys or any small, easy-to-lose items. The detachable lid can also be converted into a day pack, giving you the option to travel light for a quick day trip while you leave the main hiking backpack at basecamp.

The removable day pack on these Osprey backpacks have ample space to accommodate a hydration bladder, enough gear for an afternoon trek, food and there’s even a loop to attach an ice axe or trekking pole.

The Osprey Aether AG 70 has a compartment for sleeping bags underneath that’s also large enough to accommodate a foldable tent. The divider is removable, giving you the option of having one huge main compartment. You’re also able to access the main compartment of the Osprey Aether AG 70 via a huge side pocket. There is an internal hydration sleeve large enough to support a water reservoir of up to 3 liters but unfortunately, the reservoir isn’t included with this hiking backpack.

The wide stretchy pouch on the front of these Osprey backpacks are perfect for storing rain gear or an extra layer. Large expandable pockets on both sides are accessible from either the top or side, making it easier to retrieve your water bottle or other gear. The dual hip-belt pockets are great for storing a protein bar, your phone, or any important items that should be quick and easy to access.

The anti-gravity suspension on the Osprey Aether AG is the best! All packs in the AG series feature a suspended back panel of made of lightweight mesh that floats a few inches away from your back, giving you maximum airflow and comfort. Another perk of these anti-gravity packs is that the back panel is almost completely seamless.

A seamless back panel helps to prevent any chaffing or blisters on pressure points, that could result from hours of hiking. The lumbar area, along with stiff load bars integrated into the harness system, works together to evenly distribute the weight of your hiking backpack to alleviate pressure off of your shoulders and back.

This Osprey hiking backpack is best for the seasoned hiker that likes to stay well-organized. The Aether AG 70 features loads of storage compartments and several compression straps that allow you to reduce the profile of this hiking backpack, which helps to evenly distribute weight, and further secure its contents. There are also plenty of lash points for attaching a helmet, hiking boots or other gear.

The suspension system, meticulous design and amount of storage space make the Osprey Aether AG one of the best backpacks on the market. It’s comfy to carry and is best for long hikes and backpacking trips. It’s a little on the pricy side, but this piece of gear will literally last you a lifetime since it is backed by the Osprey “All Mighty Guarantee”, which will repair or replace parts of your hiking backpack forever!

You definitely get what you pay for, and the Aether AG is worth every penny.

Specifications:

• 70-liter capacity (65 for the Ariel AG)
• Weight: 5.4 pounds
• Durable 210D Nylon Dobby
• Die-cut foam and mesh ExoForm wrap back panel
• Anti-Gravity suspension system
• Internal aluminum frame
• Adjustable torso length
• Dual side compression straps
• Internal hydration reservoir sleeve
• Large front J-zip access to main compartment
• Removable top lid converts to a daypack
• Adjustable sternum strap with safety whistle
• Zippered lower compartment for sleeping bags
• Dual-access stretch-mesh side pockets
• Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment
• Dual ice-tool loops with bungee tie-offs
• Removable sleeping pad straps

Pros:

• Backed by the Osprey “All Mighty Guarantee”
• Additional main storage access through sleeping bags compartment on bottom of pack
• The removable top lid can function as a daypack, or leave it at home to reduce pack weight
• The anti-gravity suspension system supports the backpack’s weight and allows for better ventilation
• The hip belt and harness are interchangeable and are also heat-moldable to give you a customized fit
• Features a large J-zip access to the main storage compartment on the front panel makes loading and unloading easy
• Dual upper side upper and lower compression straps; dual front compression straps
• Dual-access stretch-mesh side pockets; zippered hip belt pockets; large stretch-mesh pocket on the front panel
• Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment; dual ice-tool loops with bungee tie-offs; removable sleeping pad straps
• Made of water resistant materials

Cons:

• Expensive
• Hydration system not included

Best Ultralight Pack – Gregory Optic 48

The Gregory Optic 48 is the best backpacking rucksack for the experienced hiker in need of an ultralight pack for all-day comfort, and plenty of storage. This pack is only 2.5 pounds in weight partially due to the internal frame made of a lightweight aluminum tubular frame, which prevents barreling to help the backpack maintain its shape while carrying a heavy load.

This lightweight, top-loading hiking backpack is one of the best choices around for the minimalist hiker that doesn’t need all the lash points and storage of a more technical pack. Aside from its 48-liter main compartment, storage options are pretty limited on this pack.

This pack includes 2 different lids, one with a zippered pocket for additional storage, and one without. You could also use the lid to store your valuables and bring them with you while out for an afternoon walk. An added bonus, there is a waterproof cover integrated into the lid with the storage pockets.

The AeroSpan trampoline style suspension on this hiking backpack provides moisture-wicking material throughout, and there is a space between the pack and your back for added breathability. The spacing between your back and the pack isn’t too wide so that the load will still be able to rest comfortably on your hips and lower back.

This pack also includes Gregory’s leaf spring lumbar pad for maximum comfort which may add a little bit of weight to the pack. The enhanced comfort is well worth a few ounces of weight, especially when trekking with a full pack on an all-day hike.

To minimize the weight of this pack the folks at Gregory have removed excess zippers and outside compartments, which is why this pack is drastically lighter than most other packs of a similar size. The Optic 48 has two stretch mesh side pockets for your hydration bottles or additional gear.

Gregory designed the pockets to have two different configurations to hold your bottles. Aside from the usual upright way, you can choose to store your bottles holster-style by sliding them through a hole in the front of the side pocket made of mesh. This gives you a quick access option to hydration without having to remove your pack.

A large hydration sleeve inside the main storage area of this pack can accommodate up to a 3-liter reservoir and padded side hip belts allow you easy access to important things like a GPS, phone or snacks.

On the front of the pack is a large stretch pocket, and there is a dual attachment system to hold your trekking poles or an ice axe. Upper and lower V-shaped straps keep your pack in place while trekking uphill or on rough terrain.

If you loosen the lower compression straps, you’re able to attach tents to the bottom of this versatile pack. The streamlined Gregory Optic 48 liter pack has plenty of room to comfortably hold all of your gear and is best for backpacking, hiking, camping or travel.

Specifications:

• 48-liter capacity
• Weight: 2.5 pounds
• 100 denier nylon fabric
• 7001 aluminum perimeter frame with AeroSpan trampoline-type suspension system
• Dual-density FocusForm shoulder harness and contoured hip belt
• Trekking pole and ice ax attachments
• Side compression straps
• Sunglass QuickStow system on the shoulder harness
• Hydration bladder compatibility

Pros:

• The lightest pack on our list of gear reviews at 2.5 pounds
• A custom-fitted cover is included with this backpack
• Option to store hydration bottles holster-style for quick access
• Room for a hydration bladder of up to 3-liters
• There’s an option between two different pack lids
• Ventilated trampoline-style suspension system keeps your back cool and comfortable
• Features lumbar padding unlike many other packs of this size
• Lower straps able to accommodate tents when loosened

Cons:

• Water bottles may slide out when storing them holster-style
• There is no front or bottom access to the main storage compartment
• Hydration bladder not included

Best Overall Backpack – Osprey Atmos AG 65/Aura AG 50

It’s no surprise that another award-winning Osprey pack makes a second appearance on our list. They produce some of the most popular, well-made and highly regarded backpacks in the world! The Osprey Atmos AG 50 and the Osprey Aether AG 70 have some features in common, but there are a few major differences in the two styles aside from capacity and color options.

The 50-liter Osprey Atmos AG 50 provides you with all of the breathability and comfort you need, and it’s the perfect pack for a weekend getaway. The anti-gravity suspension system on this luxury pack allows you to carry up to 40 pounds of weight with ease while on an all-day hike, on any terrain.

The Osprey Atmos AG 50 is a top-loading, alpine style pack, with one large main storage compartment. This compartment is also accessible via a removable divider in the lower, zippered access to the compartment for sleeping bags. These Osprey backpacks feature a floating lid that has both an internal and external pocket that you can load up with gear, and you can extend the straps of the lid for more space which allows you to overstuff the pack.

You can also fully remove the lid if you don’t need it, while the included flap jacket keeps your gear secure and dry. Within the main storage compartment, you’ll find a hydration sleeve large enough to accommodate a water reservoir of up to 3-liters. Unfortunately, the hydration bladder has to be purchased separately.

There are both upper and lower compression straps to lock down your gear and reduce the overall profile of the pack, and there are also removable sleeping pad straps along with lash points, bungee loops and a stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment on the shoulder harness. Mesh pockets on either side of the pack are ideal for storing any items you want quick and easy access to, and a stretch mesh pocket on the front of the pack is large enough to store extra layers or a small two-person tent.

These Osprey backpacks have generously padded shoulder straps have optional stiffeners that connect to load lifters to give you more structure while carrying heavy loads. Indicators on the harness make it easy to adjust torso length for a customized fit by pulling on the harness straps.

The innovative anti-gravity suspension on these Osprey hiking backpacks allows it to float a few inches away from your back, giving you maximum airflow and comfort. It’s made of a lightweight mesh that extends from the top of the back panel, down to the hip belt for unmatched comfort and ventilation.

As with the Osprey Aether AG 70 backpacks, the back panel of this backpack is almost completely seamless, and a seamless back panel can help to prevent any chaffing or blisters on pressure points, that could result from hours of hiking. The back panel also contours to the body, providing an outstanding fit and unrestricted movement. It’s as though the pack is hugging you, instead of you wearing it.

You can easily adjust the torso length by sliding the shoulder harness on the Atmos AG 50 up or down until you find the perfect fit. The pre-curved hip belt is also adjustable using Osprey’s patented Fit on the Fly system, which has velcroed extensions built-in to add a few inches of length to it if necessary.

Hip belt pockets on either side of these Osprey backpacks are large enough for your phone, GPS and snacks. At a pack weight of 4.8 pounds, far from the lightest pack on our list due to the anti-gravity suspension system, but it’s worth the extra weight, and it’s also our overall pick because of its versatility and how comfortable it is to carry.

This technical luxury pack is the perfect choice for many outdoor activities and on any terrain. Whether you’re trekking through a national park or on a weekend mountaineering adventure, the Osprey Atmos AG 50 is one of the best hiking backpacks around.

Specifications:

• 50-liter capacity
• Weight: 4.8 pounds
• Durable100 D x 630 D nylon dobby
• Die-cut foam lower and mesh ExoForm wrap upper
• Adjustable Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt
• Internal hydration reservoir sleeve
• Aluminum internal frame
• Stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment
• Dual stretch mesh side pockets
• Dual zippered hip belt pockets
• Dual ice tool loops with bungee tie-offs
• Large stretch mesh front pocket with buckle
• Zippered sleeping bag compartment
• Dual zippered top lid pockets
• Removable floating top lid
• Dual compression straps
• Adjustable sternum strap and emergency whistle
• Integrated FlapJacket for weather-protected lidless use

Pros:

• Backed by the Osprey “All Mighty Guarantee”
• Top and bottom access to main storage compartment
• The hipbelt on this backpack can be adjusted while wearing the pack
• The anti-gravity suspension system supports the pack’s weight and allows for better ventilation
• Shoulder straps have optional stiffeners for more structure when carrying heavy loads
• Indicators on harness make it easy to adjust torso length by pulling on the straps for
• Comfy to carry up to 40 pounds of weight on any terrain; a national park or while mountaineering
• Made of water resistant materials

Cons:

• Water reservoir not included
• Maybe a bit expensive for some

Final Verdict

So what is the best hiking backpack?

Well, any of the packs on our list of reviews are a great option for a multi-day trek or mountaineering adventure, so deciding which hiking backpack is the best depends on what you’re looking for. What will be the intended use of the pack? Will you be trekking or mountaineering? What type of climate or terrain will you be exploring? Are you in need of a weekender pack or one that has a large enough capacity to hold a week’s worth of gear? What is your budget?

Your hiking pack is the most important piece of hiking gear you will own, and if you’re an avid hiker it’s best to do a bit of research and invest in a great pack that will last for years. Generally, high-quality hiking backpacks are a bit on the pricier side, but they are well worth it. Take our overall pick, for example, the Osprey Aether AG 70. This technical pack is also available in 60L and 80L capacities, and there is a women’s version of this award-winning pack, the Ariel AG.

We chose the Osprey Aether AG 70 as our overall pick mainly because of its anti-gravity suspension, which makes them comfortable to carry on long treks, even when loaded to its full 60-pound limit, and the fit is highly customizable. There are also lots of storage options on both inside and outside of this pack, several lash points for attaching additional gear, and the lid of transforms into a day pack! It has everything you could want in a hiking pack for a multi-day adventure in any climate. The Aether AG 70, like all of Osprey’s packs, come with a lifetime warranty which they call the “All Mighty Guarantee”.

We hope that the packs we’ve highlighted in our reviews have helped to narrow your search for the best hiking backpack and that you find the perfect one to suit your needs.

See you out on the trails!