These days, finding the right backpack for you can be like shopping for the perfect mattress. Backpack technology isn’t what it used to be when your grandpappy was hitting the trail. It’s far better but also a lot more complicated. You’ll need to understand frame types and nylon fabric densities and hydration system compatibilities and—well, you get the picture. It’s all just a little more confusing than it needs to be. That’s why our expert team put together this guide to the best hiking backpacks to help you find the perfect pack without breaking your back and the bank in the process. Here’s what to look for.
What to Consider
Capacity
Ultimately, every hiking backpack is designed for hauling your “stuff.” The amount of stuff each pack can carry is measured in liters (L) or cubic inches. The right size for you depends on how long you typically hike for (hours, days, weeks?) and how heavy a packer you are. If you’re shopping for your first pack, finding the perfect capacity can involve a little trial and error. But, for a wide variety of hikers, the following numbers are a good starting point.
- Day Hikes (not planning to sleep in the backcountry): 30 liters or less
- Weekender Trips (up to 3 nights): 30-50 liters
- Multi-day Treks (3-5 nights): 50-80 liters
- Expedition Treks (5 or more nights): 75 liters or more
If you tend to pack light, the right capacity for you may fall closer to the lower end of the above ranges. If you’re an over-packer (no shame!), you might want to size up to a slightly larger pack with a capacity on the upper end of the above ranges. Again: Trial and error.
Weight
You may have heard an old hiker’s adage that goes something like, “Ounces make pounds, and pounds make pain.” It’s a simple axiom, but it’s true: The more weight you carry, the more work you need to do on the trail. That’s why it’s important to pack as light as possible while still taking all the essentials. It helps to start with as light of a hiking backpack as you can afford. The difference between three pounds and four pounds might not seem like much when you’re standing in your living room, but you’ll feel every gram of that one-pound difference after 10 miles.
Frame Type
There are three main types of backpack construction: internal frame, external frame, and frameless. External frame packs have largely been phased out in the mainstream outdoor gear space in favor of internal frame models. True to the name, they feature a rigid structure that’s “hidden” inside the pack’s back panel. They sit closer to the back, hugging the body for a more streamlined fit that’s ultimately more comfortable. All but the smallest hiking backpacks we recommend below rely on an internal frame construction.
Some compact daypacks (usually 20 liters or less) use a frameless construction similar to standard backpacks. The lack of a frame means they’re not ideal for supporting heavier loads, but that typically isn’t an issue if you’re only carrying enough for an afternoon hike. Without a frame, most of these packs collapse down almost completely flat, making them perfect travel backpacks.
Pack Access
Some packs—particularly those designed for alpine climbers—rely on top-loading-only designs. Think of a typical shopping bag where the contents are only accessible directly through the top opening. It’s simple but limiting. Thankfully, many of the best hiking backpacks these days are accessible via both top and side openings. For larger packs, this makes it infinitely easier to get to the gear at the bottom of your pack without having to take everything out first.
Storage & Organization
The “best” storage layout is personal to each hiker. If you’re an organizational nerd (I count myself among this camp), you may prefer more pockets to better wrangle your gear in a way that makes sense to you. On the other end of the spectrum are alpine-style bags that typically trade more pockets (and zippers and stitching) for a simpler, lighter-weight design. These tend to feature a single open-concept storage compartment with only one or two smaller storage pockets.
A few pieces of gear you may want dedicated pockets for include: a hydration bladder, water bottle(s), a phone (with easy access to its camera), a satellite messenger, and bear spray. Most modern bags also offer external storage options, like reinforced crampon patches and gear loops or “daisy chains” (i.e., webbing stitched into the pack’s exterior that provides multiple attachment points for wet gear, ice axes, helmets, and more that you may not want store inside your pack).
Other Features
Hiking backpacks are deceptively complex, and there are dozens of technical features available on many of today’s best models. If you’re shopping for anything other than a daypack, consider a bag with a dedicated sleeping bag compartment and sleeping pad straps. For longer treks where you may want to venture away from basecamp once you set up your tent, a removable daypack (sometimes the “brain” or top lid of a larger pack converts into an ultra-compact hip bag for this purpose), and a rain cover, which may be a standalone piece of fabric with a stretch seam or sewn into the pack itself, so you can easily pull it over the pack if the weather turns south.
How We Selected
As an outdoors writer, I spend countless weeks outside each year. During that time, I’ve put the most popular and well-reviewed hiking backpacks to the test to determine the best of the best. Over the last 12 months, I’ve tested dozens of packs from Mystery Ranch, Mammut, Gregory, Osprey, and more throughout the U.S., in Utah’s National Parks, the White Mountains of New Hampshire, the vast deserts of Big Bend National Park, and beyond. I’ve also consulted with Senior Gear and Commerce Editor Ryan Brower on top options, research, and some of his testing. While testing hiking backpacks, I’ve been sure to take thorough notes on comfort, ease of packing, weight, durability, how well (or not) the weight is spread throughout, and how much gear can fit in them.
So, whether you’re looking for a featherweight daypack for afternoon peak-bagging or a full-fledged expedition pack for tackling the wilds of Patagonia, we’ve got you covered with the best hiking backpacks for any trail.
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Cons
- A little heavy for a 45-liter pack
Mystery Ranch’s wildly popular Bridger 45 is sort of a “jack of all trades,” but … a master of all of them, too. The 45-liter capacity is perfect for a wide variety of hikers. It’s large enough to accommodate gear for a three-day weekender, for example, and even minimalist expedition treks of five days or more if you pack really smart. Like all of the brand’s packs, the Bridger 45 uses premium materials that are extremely durable, far more than most other bags at this price point.
After three days with it in the backcountry, I found it to be exceptionally comfortable and livable on the trail. The so-called Endurance Yoke fits more like a running vest to help spread out the load on your chest and shoulders. Dual zippers allow the main compartment to open wide for easy access to everything right down to the bottom of the pack. There’s a seemingly endless number of pockets, pouches, loops, and straps for stashing all your hiking essentials. But it’s all well-organized, so nothing ever feels entirely “lost.”
Of the dozens of bags currently in my gear closet, the Bridger 45 has been the easiest to grab whenever I’m planning to be out for longer than three days. It’s sized right, priced right, and the design is thoughtful and clever enough to stay out of its own way. Plus, you can’t beat the durability of MR’s products or its lifetime warranty.
Read More: Best Hiking Boots
| Capacity | 45 liters |
| Weight | 4.4 lbs |
| Frame Type | Internal |
| Pack Access | Top; side |
Cons
- Might be too small for most day hiking needs
At just 12L and weighing only 390 grams, this pack is designed for ultra-efficient climbs and lightning-fast summit assaults. It’s the daypack you grab when most other daypacks are too much. I found the simple organizational layout—one main compartment and two zippered pockets (one internal, one external)—made wrangling my day hiking essentials a breeze. Additional gear loops at the rear provide extra space for hanging anything you might need at the ready. The just-right back padding, removable hip belt, and ventilated mesh shoulder straps were extremely comfy for tackling daily summits in the White Mountains.
It’s all made from recycled, eco-friendly materials that are Bluesign certified, with a PFC-free DWR treatment. The best part? It’s among the most affordable brand-name speedpacks we’d recommend this year.
| Capacity | 12 liters |
| Weight | 390 grams |
| Frame Type | Frameless |
| Pack Access | Top; side |
Cons
- A little heavy relative to its capacity
- Could be more water-resistant
Like every Gregory pack I’ve tested in the last two decades, the Paragon 60 is durable, cleverly designed, and features smart organizational options. But I’m including it here mainly because it’s so dang comfy to wear. It features a widely adjustable torso length and an airy mesh back panel that breathes well thanks to a design that’s 90% air. The hip belt is equally adjustable, too, with dynamic panels that move independently of the frame. Translation: It’s the most comfortable pack I tested this year, even after hundreds of miles of hiking with fairly heavy loads.
Bonus: The PFAS-free durable water-repellent (DWR) coating on the body, bottom, and pack lining means it’s more eco-friendly, too.
| Capacity | 56 liters (S/M); 60 liters (M/L) |
| Weight | 3 lbs 8.3 oz (S/M); 3 lbs 11.5 oz (M/L) |
| Frame Type | Internal |
| Pack Access | Top; bottom; side-zipper |
Cons
- Premium price tag
- Organization requires proprietary cubes to maximize
For an all-in-one solution—a backpack that moves effortlessly from your morning commute to the office to the trail and back again—Peak Design’s new Outdoor 25L pack delivers. The frameless, low-profile build is extremely comfy on and off the trail. The brand’s signature organizational elements are here, too—it’s hydration system compatible, features a 16-inch laptop sleeve, and is purpose-built to accept PD’s own gear cubes (sold separately) so you can divvy up the main compartment however you see fit. The drawstring/roll-top closure provides quick and easy access to the internal compartment while protecting your gear from the elements.
Fair warning, though: You’ll pay a premium for the PD brand name.
| Capacity | 25 liters |
| Weight | 2 lbs 8.6oz |
| Frame Type | Frameless |
| Pack Access | Top |
Cons
- Limited organization options
Like many Arc’teryx packs, the FL30 is first and foremost built for climbing (including a top strap, six lash points, and a built-in RECCO reflector for SAR situations). But, I also found its sleek silhouette and featherweight construction great for fast-packing. It’s only as heavy as it needs to be while still protecting your gear with the brand’s own abrasion-resistant Hadron grid fabric. The drawstring opening provides quick access to a cavernous, open-concept interior with only a single, small zippered security pocket.
It’s a no-frills design with minimal organization options that won’t please every hiker. But it’s a solid, if pricey, option for hard-charging trail lovers who appreciate a pack that stays out of its own way.
| Capacity | 30 liters |
| Weight | 23 oz |
| Frame Type | Frameless |
| Pack Access | Top only |
Cons
- A little pricey for a daypack
Exped’s all-new Skyline 20 hits the sweet spot for day hikers with a good blend of capacity, overall dimensions, weight, and organizational features. At 20 liters, it’s well-sized for most day hikes or ultra-minimalist overnighters. A full-length, asymmetrical zipper allows easy access to the main storage compartment all the way down to the bottom.
On my recent trek through the Whites, I found the multiple zippered pockets, elastic side pockets, and oversized front pouch (for rain shells, gloves, hats, etc.) perfect for wrangling my day-hiking essentials. I also love the integrated rain cover that tucks neatly into a hidden pocket at the bottom of the pack.
| Capacity | 20 liters |
| Weight | 1 lb. 11.9 oz. (S/M); 2 lbs. 0.5 oz. (M/L) |
| Frame Type | Internal |
| Pack Access | Top; side |
Cons
- Only two colorways available for the 44 model
With a 44-liter capacity, the Talon 44 is large enough for two-day weekender trips and even longer multi-day treks. It’s an ideal bag for most hikers looking to buy just one backpack that does it all. I love the slim profile, excellent padding, and close-to-body fit—all of which makes for more comfortable wear, especially after long days on the trail.
This latest iteration of Osprey’s best-seller features a long list of upgrades to the straps, padding, and overall design. Plus, I found the sheer number of storage options to be perfect for almost any length of trip.
| Capacity | 44 liters |
| Weight | 3.46 lbs (S/M); 3.57 lbs (M/L) |
| Frame Type | Internal |
| Pack Access | Top; side |
Cons
- Premium Yeti price tag
The Crossroads 27L Carry-On is, first and foremost, a travel backpack (it fits under most airline seats, making it a great carry-on backpack). But Yeti bakes in plenty of trail-ready durability to make this one good enough for hiking, too. The 700-denier TuffSkin Nylon exterior is both water—and abrasion-resistant, with an extra durable and easy-to-clean PU-coated base. Contoured, EVA-foam shoulder straps and a no-pressure back panel make for easy carrying, even during long layovers.
Plus, with a suspended laptop sleeve and multiple zippered pockets inside and out, this has become my go-to weekender bag, especially on trips where I’m intent on hitting the trail straight from the airport. (Pro tip: Pair it with Yeti’s own Crossroads packing cubes for maximum organization options)
| Capacity | 27 liters |
| Weight | 3.6 lbs |
| Frame Type | Frameless |
| Pack Access | Top; side |
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He’s kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South Africa, and survived a near-miss great white shark attack in Mexico. His travel advice has appeared on the websites for Forbes, Travel + Leisure, CNET, and National Geographic. He loves the great outdoors and good bourbon, and (usually) calls Tulsa, Oklahoma home. Mike also enjoys speaking in the third person.Â
Ryan Brower is the Senior Gear and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he tests the best products in outdoor gear and tech. Baseball, surfing, and camping occupied most of his time growing up.
He also trained in martial arts for 12 years and holds a third degree black belt. He has written about the outdoors for nearly two decades and was previously the Managing Editor, Content Performance at Gear Patrol. He is also a Certified Beer Server and previously covered the craft beer industry. Ryan currently lives on the water in New Jersey with his wife and their dog.
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