Backpacking is a thrilling and adventurous activity for many outdoor enthusiasts. It's an excellent way to explore the great outdoors while challenging yourself physically and mentally. However, to make the most out of your backpacking experience, you need to have the right gear, and that includes a backpacking pack.

A backpacking pack is a type of backpack specifically designed for multi-day hikes and camping trips. It's larger and more durable than a regular backpack and can hold all the gear and supplies you need for your journey. When choosing a backpacking pack, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you get the right one for your needs.

The most critical factor to consider when choosing a backpacking pack is its size and capacity. You need to choose a pack that's large enough to hold all your gear and supplies but not too large that it becomes cumbersome to carry. The pack's weight and comfort are also essential factors to consider since you'll be carrying it for extended periods.

We spent countless hours researching and testing various backpacking packs to identify the best ones for different needs and preferences. In the following sections, we'll share our top picks for the best backpacking packs and what makes each one stand out.

Best Backpacking Packs

As avid backpackers ourselves, we know the importance of a good backpacking pack. It's not just about carrying your gear, but also about comfort, durability, and functionality. After researching and testing various backpacking packs, we have compiled a list of the best backpacking packs on the market. Whether you're planning a weekend trip or a multi-day trek, these backpacking packs are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

King'sGuard 100L Camping Hiking Backpack Molle Rucksack Military Camping Backpacking Daypack Armygreen

If you're looking for a durable, spacious backpack for your next camping or hiking trip, the King'sGuard 100L Camping Hiking Backpack might be worth considering.

Pros

• Large-capacity loading
• Matching belt bag
• Waterproof and breathable fabric

Cons

• Heavy when fully loaded
• Side pocket zipper may break easily
• Some users found the backpack uncomfortable to wear for extended periods

This backpack is designed to hold a lot of gear, making it a good choice for multi-day trips with multiple people. The matching belt bag is a nice touch, providing easy access to frequently used items. The waterproof and breathable fabric is a plus, ensuring that your gear stays dry and that you don't get too sweaty while wearing the backpack.

However, the backpack can be quite heavy when fully loaded, which may be a concern for some users. Additionally, the side pocket zipper has been known to break easily, so it may not be the best choice for those who need to access their gear frequently. Finally, some users have found the backpack uncomfortable to wear for extended periods, so it may not be the best choice for those planning on long hikes.

Overall, if you're looking for a spacious, durable backpack for your next camping or hiking trip, the King'sGuard 100L Camping Hiking Backpack might be worth considering.

Osprey Exos 48 Men's Ultralight Backpacking Backpack Small/Medium Blue Ribbon

We highly recommend the Osprey Exos 48 Men's Ultralight Backpacking Backpack for anyone in need of a reliable and comfortable backpacking pack for their next adventure.

Pros

• The AirSpeed injection-molded ladder adjustment system provides 4" of torso adjustability for a customizable fit.
• The ExoForm harness features seamless layered mesh to provide improved comfort and cushioning.
• The front stretch mesh pocket, dual-access stretch mesh side pockets, and dual-zippered hipbelt pockets allow for easy access to essentials while on the go.

Cons

• The recommended load range for the Size Small/Medium is limited to 25-30 lbs.
• The removable floating lid may not be as secure as a fixed lid.
• The pack's size may be too large for carry-on as a flight bag.

The Osprey Exos 48 Backpack is a lightweight and comfortable backpacking pack that provides ample storage space for all your essentials. The adjustable AirSpeed injection-molded ladder adjustment system allows for a customizable fit, while the ExoForm harness provides improved comfort and cushioning. The removable floating lid with top- and under-lid zippered pockets and integrated flapJacket cover for lidless use offers versatility and convenience. The dual ice axe loops with bungee tie-off, Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment, and sternum strap with integrated safety whistle provide additional functionality for outdoor adventures.

The front stretch mesh pocket is perfect for stashing gear, and the dual-access stretch mesh side pockets and dual-zippered hipbelt pockets keep essentials handy. However, the recommended load range for the Size Small/Medium is limited to 25-30 lbs, and the removable floating lid may not be as secure as a fixed lid. Additionally, the pack's size may be too large for carry-on as a flight bag.

Overall, the Osprey Exos 48 Backpack is a great choice for anyone in need of a reliable and comfortable backpacking pack for their next adventure.

4Monster Hiking Daypack

If you're looking for a lightweight and compact backpack for your hiking and camping trips, the 4Monster Hiking Daypack is a great option.

Pros

• The backpack is incredibly lightweight, weighing only 4 ounces, making it easy to carry around all day.
• It's made of water-resistant material, which will keep your belongings dry in case of rain or splashes.
• The backpack is durable and tear-resistant, ensuring that it will last through many hikes and trips.

Cons

• The backpack only has a total capacity of 16 liters, which may not be enough for longer trips or for carrying larger items.
• The backpack has limited padding and support, which may not be comfortable for extended periods of use.
• The backpack doesn't have many compartments or pockets, which may make it difficult to organize your belongings.

We recently took the 4Monster Hiking Daypack on a day trip and were impressed with its lightweight design and water-resistant material. The backpack was able to fit all of our essentials, including a water bottle, snacks, and a light jacket. However, we did notice that the backpack didn't have much padding or support, which made it uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time. Additionally, the lack of compartments and pockets made it difficult to organize our belongings. Overall, we would recommend the 4Monster Hiking Daypack for shorter trips and for those who prioritize lightweight and compact design over additional features.

ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack 25L

We highly recommend the ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack 25L for anyone in need of a durable, lightweight backpack for their next hiking or travel adventure.

Pros

• The backpack is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry for extended periods of time.
• The backpack is foldable and can be stored in a compact pocket, making it convenient for travel.
• The backpack has multiple compartments, including a main bag, inner bag, front bags, and side bags, making it easy to organize and store items.

Cons

• The backpack is not completely waterproof, so it may not be suitable for use in heavy rain.
• The side pockets are not deep enough to securely hold larger water bottles.
• The backpack may not be suitable for carrying heavy loads, as it is designed to be lightweight.

We found the ZOMAKE backpack to be a great choice for our recent hiking trip. The backpack was incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry for extended periods of time, and the multiple compartments made it easy to organize and store all of our gear. Additionally, the backpack's foldable design made it convenient to pack and store when not in use.

One thing to note is that the backpack is not completely waterproof, so it may not be suitable for use in heavy rain. Additionally, the side pockets are not deep enough to securely hold larger water bottles, which may be a drawback for some users. Finally, while the backpack is durable, it may not be suitable for carrying heavy loads, as it is designed to be lightweight.

Overall, we highly recommend the ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack 25L for anyone in need of a durable, lightweight backpack for their next hiking or travel adventure.

SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack

We highly recommend the SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack for anyone looking for a lightweight and durable backpack for outdoor activities.

Pros

• The high-density 600D polyester and 210D nylon plaid fabric make this backpack water-resistant, tear-resistant, and wear-resistant, ensuring long-lasting durability.
• The breathable grooved carrying system and mesh back fabric reduce sweating for extra comfort during travel.
• The backpack features multiple compartments, an anti-theft zipper, and an outdoor emergency rescue guide for additional safety.

Cons

• The backpack is only 20L, which may not be enough space for longer trips or for those who need to carry more gear.
• The backpack is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
• The backpack may not be suitable for those who prefer a more traditional or classic backpack design.

We recently used the SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack on a day hike and were impressed with its durability and comfort. The backpack's waterproof material kept our gear dry and the breathable back fabric kept us cool during the hike. The multiple compartments made it easy to organize our gear and the anti-theft zipper provided peace of mind. We also appreciated the outdoor emergency rescue guide, which provided additional safety information.

Overall, we highly recommend the SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack for anyone looking for a lightweight and durable backpack for outdoor activities.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best backpacking pack, there are several features that you should consider. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

Capacity

The capacity of the backpacking pack is one of the most important factors to consider. You need to choose a pack that is big enough to hold all of your gear, but not so big that it is uncomfortable to carry. Most backpacking packs range in size from 30 to 80 liters.

Fit

The fit of the pack is also crucial. A pack that doesn't fit well can cause discomfort and even pain during long hikes. Look for a pack that fits your body type and has adjustable straps to help you get the perfect fit.

Weight

The weight of the pack is another important consideration. A lighter pack will be easier to carry, but you don't want to sacrifice durability and comfort for weight savings. Look for a pack that balances weight and comfort.

Features

There are several features that you should look for in a backpacking pack. Here are some of the most important:

• Pockets: Look for a pack with plenty of pockets for organization and easy access to your gear.
• Compression straps: Compression straps help to keep your gear secure and prevent it from shifting during your hike.
• Ventilation: A pack with good ventilation will help to keep you cool and comfortable during long hikes.
• Hydration compatibility: Look for a pack that is compatible with a hydration system so you can stay hydrated on the trail.

Materials

The materials used in the construction of the pack are also important. Look for a pack made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of backpacking.

Overall, choosing the best backpacking pack requires careful consideration of several factors. By taking the time to find the right pack for your needs, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable backpacking experience.