When it comes to hiking, your backpack isn’t just a place to stash your gear—it’s your mobile base camp, lifeline, and comfort system all in one. Whether you’re heading out for a short day hike or tackling a multi-day trail, the right hiking backpack can make or break your adventure.
But not all backpacks are created equal. The best hiking backpack for you depends on the kind of hiking you do, how much gear you carry, and what features you value most. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose the perfect pack for your outdoor journeys.
1. Know the Different Types of Hiking Backpacks
There are several types of hiking backpacks, each designed for a specific kind of trip.
Daypacks (10–30 liters)
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Designed for short hikes or day trips
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Hold essentials like water, snacks, jacket, and a first-aid kit
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Lightweight and compact
Overnight Packs (30–50 liters)
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Great for one or two-night trips
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Accommodate sleeping bags, light food supplies, and extra layers
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Balance space with portability
Multi-Day Packs (50–75 liters)
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Best for longer trips (2–5 nights)
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Room for tents, cooking gear, bulkier food, and extra clothing
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Often feature advanced suspension systems for heavy loads
Expedition Packs (75+ liters)
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Built for extended trips or gear-heavy adventures like mountaineering
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Prioritize capacity, durability, and support
Choosing the right size pack starts with identifying how long you’ll be hiking and what gear you’ll need to bring.
2. Consider Fit and Comfort
No matter how many features a backpack has, if it doesn’t fit you well, it won’t be comfortable—especially over long distances.
Key Fit Factors:
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Torso Length: Backpacks come in different sizes based on your torso length, not your height. Measure from the base of your neck to your hip bone.
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Hip Belt: Should sit on your hips (not your waist) and support most of the weight.
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Shoulder Straps: Should contour your body and distribute the load evenly.
Try Before You Buy:
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Visit an outdoor store and get fitted by a specialist if possible.
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Load the backpack with weight to simulate a real hike.
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Walk around, adjust the straps, and see how it feels after 10–15 minutes.
A well-fitting backpack will feel balanced, snug, and reduce fatigue on the trail.
3. Look for the Right Suspension System
The suspension system is what helps your backpack carry heavy loads comfortably.
Components to Consider:
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Internal frame: Most modern hiking backpacks have internal frames for better weight distribution.
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Load lifters: Straps near your shoulders that help shift the weight from your shoulders to your hips.
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Ventilated back panel: Keeps air flowing between your back and the pack to reduce sweat buildup.
Good suspension not only improves comfort but also protects your spine and joints from strain.
4. Choose Based on Access and Organization
How you pack—and how easily you can access your gear—makes a big difference on the trail.
Common Access Options:
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Top-loading packs: Classic design; gear loads from the top and is often secured with a drawstring and lid.
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Front panel or clamshell access: Unzips like a suitcase for quick access to all contents.
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Side zippers or bottom compartments: Allow access to sleeping bags or clothes without unpacking everything.
Organizational Features to Look For:
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Exterior pockets for water bottles or snacks
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Hip belt pockets for phone or sunscreen
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Stretch mesh pockets for wet gear
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Hydration reservoir sleeves or ports
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Sleeping bag compartments
Well-placed pockets and smart layout reduce time spent digging through your gear.
5. Pay Attention to Weight
The weight of your backpack matters—especially when combined with all your gear.
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Ultralight packs (1–3 lbs): Best for minimalist hikers or thru-hikers. Sacrifice features for low weight.
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Standard packs (3–5 lbs): Offer more padding, compartments, and durability.
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Heavy-duty packs (5+ lbs): Ideal for long expeditions with large gear loads.
Lighter packs reduce fatigue but often offer less support and durability. Balance weight with functionality for your needs.
6. Prioritize Durability and Material
Your backpack needs to withstand exposure to the elements, abrasion, and heavy use.
Durable Materials Include:
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Ripstop nylon: Lightweight and tear-resistant
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Cordura: Heavy-duty and abrasion-resistant
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Water-resistant coatings (DWR): Keep gear dry in light rain
Check the denier rating (a measure of thickness): Higher numbers mean more durable material, but also more weight.
Some packs also include reinforced bottoms or weatherproof zippers for added longevity.
7. Consider Weather Protection
If you're hiking in wet climates or during unpredictable seasons, look for backpacks with built-in or add-on rain protection.
Options:
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Integrated rain cover: Stored in a zippered pocket at the bottom
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Water-resistant materials: Keeps contents dry in light showers
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Sealed seams: Prevent water from sneaking through stitching
Always bring a rain cover or liner for longer hikes, even if your pack claims to be water-resistant.
8. Don’t Overlook Useful Extras
The best hiking backpacks include small details that enhance functionality and comfort.
Handy Extras:
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Trekking pole loops
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Gear loops or daisy chains for carabiners
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Compression straps to stabilize loads
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Adjustable sternum strap
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Whistle built into the buckle (for emergencies)
These features might seem minor at first, but they often become essentials once you're out on the trail.
9. Set a Budget That Matches Your Needs
You don’t need to spend a fortune, but good hiking backpacks often reflect their price in comfort and performance.
Price Ranges:
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Budget packs ($50–$100): Good for casual hikers or day use. Fewer features, but often lightweight.
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Mid-range packs ($100–$250): More durable, with added support and better materials.
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Premium packs ($250+): Designed for serious hikers and backpackers. Feature-rich, ergonomic, and ultra-durable.
For most hikers, a mid-range backpack from a trusted brand will offer the best balance of value and long-term performance.
10. Read Reviews and Compare Brands
Top outdoor brands consistently earn praise for their comfort, durability, and innovation. Some reliable names to explore include:
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Osprey
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Deuter
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Gregory
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REI Co-op
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Granite Gear
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Hyperlite Mountain Gear (for ultralight options)
Be sure to read user reviews and comparison tests from real hikers. What works for one body type or adventure style may not work for another.
