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For nature lovers who find happiness and joy enjoying adventures out of their homes, hiking may be one of their most sought-after activities. Some hikers strongly point out how hiking improves their total well-being.
Now, if you’re a hiker, or planning to go on your first hike, one of the things you should be equipped with is a hiking backpack. Finding the best hiking backpack for you will provide you a smoother and more enjoyable hiking experience.
In this article, we break down our best hiking backpacks to date. Read on to find out!
Best hiking backpack
Osprey Packs Stratos 36
Osprey Packs Stratos 36 is the epitome of balance when it comes to hiking backpacks. Renowned for its reputation in hiking equipment, Osprey delivers a product that is neither too small for a day trip nor too bulky for a weekend getaway.
Key Features
The Stratos 36 is most famous for its impressive ventilation, an asset when you’re hiking under the scorching sun. The size-adjustable handles ensure that the backpack fits comfortably, tailored to your body’s proportions. Choose from four different size capacities, each designed with an airspeed suspension system for added breathability and comfort.
What Sets It Apart
In addition to comfort features, this backpack comes with a built-in rain cover for those unpredictable showers. The hip belt interface eliminates discomfort, making chafing a thing of the past.
Summary
This is a backpack you can rely on—whether for a day trip or an overnight trek. Osprey’s Stratos 36 stands out in a crowded market, effectively combining durability with breathability in a way that few competitors have managed to achieve.
Pros
- Versatile
- Comes with a rain cover
- An integrated hip belt adds comfort
- Well-ventilated
- Breathable
Cons
- Design can be improved
- Capacity lies between a daypack and a weekend backpack
Osprey Packs Atmos AG 65
Another strong contender from Osprey, the Atmos AG 65, has gained traction among both seasoned hikers and those just starting their outdoor adventures.
Key Features
This bag boasts an array of spacious pockets, perfect for all your smaller essentials like phones, GPS, and cameras. The stretch mesh pockets accommodate irregular items, and there are dedicated compartments for rain gear. The bag even includes emergency features like a sternum strap and a whistle.
What Sets It Apart
The Atmos AG 65 utilizes anti-gravity straps, effectively distributing weight across your back and shoulders, ensuring a less strenuous hiking experience. However, be aware that the rain cover may not hold up in extreme weather conditions.
Summary
It’s a preferred choice for many hikers due to its superior suspension and array of features. However, its limitations in wet conditions should be considered when making your selection.
Pros
- High-quality build
- Provides comfort
- Well-ventilated
- Breathable
- Adaptable hip, belt, and shoulder straps
Cons
- Rain cover can only survive for so long
- It May be uncomfortable when overloaded
Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Backpack
If aesthetics matter to you as much as functionality, the Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Backpack offers a stylish array of color choices without compromising on features.
Key Features
Its large storage capacity and lightweight design are further complemented by cushioned shoulder straps and adjustable chest straps. This bag truly is a mix of comfort and style.
What Sets It Apart
Unique to this backpack is a separate pocket for wet or dirty clothes, ensuring that your clean items remain unaffected.
Summary
This Venture Pal model offers a blend of aesthetics, comfort, and durability. It’s built to last while keeping you looking fashionable on the trails.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Tightly packed
- Waterproof
- Comes in different designs
- Comes with a water pocket inside
Cons
- Short strap padding
- Some components are not that sturdy
Kelty Red Cloud 90 Backpack
The Kelty Red Cloud 90 is the stalwart choice for hikers looking for a bag that offers a blend of durability and practicality.
Key Features
Its best feature is its adaptive suspension design, meaning the bag conforms to what you pack. Furthermore, it’s designed with ventilation in mind, making it ideal for hikes in warmer climates.
What Sets It Apart
Versatility shines through in this Kelty model, with a high storage capacity and multiple compartments for easy organization.
Summary
This backpack is designed for any type of hiking scenario. If you’re looking for a reliable companion on long hikes, Kelty Red Cloud 90 should be on your list.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Enough storage space
- Adapts to the user’s size through its PerfectFIT feature
- Comfortable even in longer hikes
Cons
- No rain cover
- Some problems with the lower compartments
High Sierra Summit 40 Internal Frame Pack
The High Sierra Summit 40 offers unmatched durability, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about hiking.
Key Features
The bag is designed for overnight trips and includes special compartments for sleeping bags. Its Hex-Vent fabric padding ensures weight is evenly distributed, making for a more comfortable hike.
What Sets It Apart
This model stands out for its adaptability to different weather conditions. It even includes a rain cover for those wet hiking days.
Summary
For a sturdy, weather-resistant, and practical backpack that can endure the long haul, the High Sierra Summit 40 is a strong candidate.
Pros
- Versatile
- Easy to use
- Fantastic compression straps
- Comes with a rain cover
- Durable
Cons
- On the expensive side
- Top-load style opening
Buyer’s guide
Now that we’re done talking about the best hiking backpacks let’s now dive into the things that you should best consider before deciding on your purchase.
Backpack types
Backpacks come in different types, and it’s usually based on what you need it for:
- Daypacks: With a 15L to 35L usual capacity, this type is used for day trips or overnight ones.
- Internal frame packs: As the name implies, this type of backpack comes with an internal frame that functions to increase durability as it protects your stuff. This is stronger and is recommended for longer trips.
- External frame packs: This has the highest capacity and is one sturdy type. It’s also best used in trips that run even up to a couple of weeks or more.
Load Capacity
If you plan to use your backpack on an activity such as hiking, it is best to consider the load capacity. Remember, it will house everything you need, so contemplate on how much you need to pack.
Backpack capacity is typically expressed in liters. But there are also brands that identify their products’ capacity by stating many items they can possibly carry.
Generally, for single-day trips, a backpack capacity of 10L to 25L should suffice. Moreover, backpack capacities of 20L to 40L and 30L to 50Lare advisable for overnight trips and longer journeys, respectively.
Materials used
When it comes to materials, look for nylon, canvas, Cordura, and polyester. These make durable backpacks without making them heavy.
Weight
Considering the weight is a must when it comes to looking for your hiking backpack. Hiking is already a tiring activity, so your backpack shouldn’t be holding you back. As a general rule, backpacks should not go beyond 5 pounds for a balanced weight-to-capacity ratio.
Price point
The first thing to do when it comes to the price department is to determine how much your budget is. Of course the more features there are, the more expensive the backpack will be. However, keep in mind that you don’t have to break the bank to find a bag that’s perfect for you.
Frequently asked questions
- How to pack for my hiking trip?
Packing is like wine, it gets better in time! If you’re a newbie, the best way is to list down everything you need and cross things out as you go. In time, you won’t need a list because it will come naturally.
- What materials are backpacks made of?
The materials typically used in creating backpacks are:
- Canvas
- Cotton
- Packcloth nylon
- Polyester packcloth nylon
- Cordura nylon
- Ripstop nylon
- PVC fabric
- Leather
- What is the best size for a hiking backpack?
Height, weight, strength, and capacity make up the size of the backpack. Knowing what size is best for you largely depends on you: your body type, trip length, and other specific needs.
Generally, though, an ideal backpack is one that is tight on the hips with the perfect height for your sternum.
- How to choose a hiking backpack for myself?
There are various backpacks for hiking in the market. They all differ in features, sizes, and uses. Essentially, you just have to find what suits your needs.
Things to consider, as written as well above, are as follows:
- Backpack types
- Price point
- Weight
- Materials used
- Load Capacity
- How should a backpack fit me?
Since the purpose, you’re buying a backpack is for hiking, how it fits is of vital importance. It should fit you well with as much comfort as possible. But thankfully, the majority of backpacks come with several straps that you can adjust accordingly.
Verdict
Although we adore all five backpacks in this article, #1 on our list is Osprey Packs Stratos 36. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend overnight hike, this will surely serve you well. On top of that, it’s comfortable, durable, and functional.
But then again, your backpack, your choice!
