For backpackers who crave adventure, regardless of the elements, choosing the right hiking backpack is as crucial as lacing up sturdy boots.
Choosing the right backpack can make the difference between a seamless trek and a cumbersome journey. As the elements are unpredictable, finding a backpack that stands resilient against diverse weather conditions is paramount.
In this guide, we delve into the top contenders that strike the perfect balance between functionality, durability, and adaptability.
Granite Gear Blaze 60
Price:
- Backcountry: $300
- REI: $300
- Amazon: $270
The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is a pinnacle in hiking backpacks, seamlessly blending durability with a mere 2.2-pound weight. Its spacious 60-liter capacity, multiple compartments, and robust materials make it an ideal choice for avid hikers seeking a reliable, versatile pack.
- Materials: 100D robic nylon w/ DWR coating
- Stated capacity: 60 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: No
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Comfortable with heavy loads
- Perfect pocket combination
Cons:
- Tiny buckles hard to operate with gloves
Osprey Atmos 65 AG
Price:
- Backcountry: $340
- REI: $340
- Amazon: $330
The Osprey Atmos 65 AG seamlessly combines classic aesthetics with cutting-edge functionality. Its breathable suspension system ensures comfort during extended journeys, while a plethora of user-friendly features enhances accessibility.
- Materials: Recycled 210D honeycomb nylon, Recycled 210D high-tenacity nylon, Recycled 500D high-tenacity nylon
- Stated capacity: 65 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: Yes
Pros:
- Awesome pockets
- Excellent ventilation
- General comfort
Cons:
- Not supportive for loads over 40 pounds
Ultralight Adventure Equipment Catalyst
Price:
- List Price: $280
The Ultralight Adventure Equipment (ULA) Catalyst is a pinnacle of ultralight backpacking, meticulously designed for weight-conscious adventurers. Weighing just under 3 pounds, the Catalyst doesn't compromise on durability.
- Materials: 400 Robic fabric
- Stated capacity: 75 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: No
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Supportive
- Functional feature set
Cons:
- No lid
- Back panel lacks ventilation
REI Co-op Flash 55
Price:
- List Price: $199
- REI: $199
The REI Co-op Flash 55 represents a blend of innovation and practicality in the realm of backpacking. Packed with user-friendly features and durable materials, the Flash 55 represents a reliable choice for those seeking a versatile and high-performance backpack for their outdoor adventures.
- Materials: 100D ripstop nylon, 420D nylon
- Stated capacity: 55 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: No
Pros:
- Light-weight
- Comfortable
- Easily personalized
Cons:
- Not the most durable
- Low maximum load weight
Osprey Aether 65
Price:
- Backcountry: $320
- REI: $320
- Amazon: $310
The Osprey Aether 65 stands as a hallmark in backpacking excellence, offering a generous 65-liter capacity coupled with Osprey's renowned craftsmanship.
- Materials: 420HD nylon, DWR treatment
- Stated capacity: 65 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: Yes
Pros:
- Durable
- Lots of features
- Plenty of adjustments to dial in the perfect fit
- Supportive
Cons:
- Heavy
- Attached hip belt
- Water bottle pockets can be inconvenient
Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10
Price:
- REI: $250
- Amazon: $250
The Deuter Aircontact Lite 65+10 embodies versatility and durability, offering a spacious 65+10-liter capacity for extended expeditions.
- Materials: 235-denier polyamide, 500-denier textured polyamide
- Stated capacity: 65L + 10L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: Yes
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Great cushioning
- Adjustable torso length
- Tons of organization options
Cons:
- Only comes in one size
- Heavier for its volume
Gregory Focal 58
Price:
- Backcountry: $250
- REI: $250
- Amazon: $193
The Gregory Focal 58 is a pinnacle in backpack design, meticulously crafted for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of functionality and comfort. With a 58-liter capacity, it strikes a balance between ample storage and a streamlined design
- Materials: 100% Nylon
- Stated capacity: 58 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: No
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Comfortable suspension
- Great features
Cons:
- Not a very adjustable torso
Osprey Aether Pro 70
Price:
- Backcountry: $260
- Amazon: $363
The Osprey Aether Pro 70 is a testament to advanced backpacking engineering, offering a generous 70-liter capacity for serious expeditions.
- Materials: NanoFly 210D Nylon X 200D UHMWPE (ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene)
- Stated capacity: 70 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: Yes
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Handles heavy loads
- Comfortable shoulder straps
- Several removable features
Cons:
- Poor gear accessibility
- Not many features
REI Co-op Traverse 60
Price:
- List Price: $229
- REI: $259
The REI Co-op Traverse 60 is a testament to reliability and versatility in backpack design. It is a dependable choice for those who value adaptability and durability in their outdoor pursuits.
- Materials: 300D recycled ripstop nylon
- Stated capacity: 60 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: Yes
Pros:
- Comfortable with heavy loads
- Good pockets
- Easy to use
- Durable
Cons:
- Heavier than most
Gregory Baltoro 65
Price:
- REI: $330
- Amazon: $247
The Gregory Baltoro 65 stands as a paragon of backpacking excellence, offering a robust 65-liter capacity for those embarking on extended expeditions
- Materials: 210D High Density 40% Recycled Nylon, 420D High Density 45% Recycled Nylon with PFC-Free DWR
- Stated capacity: 65 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: Yes
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Handles heavy loads
- Dual zippered lid pockets for accessibility
- The Large "U" zipper allows easy access
Cons:
- Heavier weight
- Supportive foam can feel stiff at first
Mountain Hardwear PCT 70
Price:
- Backcountry: $300
- Amazon: $300
The Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 combines durability with efficient functionality. Featuring a customizable suspension system, numerous pockets, and high-quality materials, the PCT 70 ensures optimal comfort and organization for extended journeys.
- Materials: 100% recycled 210D ripstop nylon, 100% 500D Cordura nylon plain weave
- Stated capacity: 72 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: Optional divider
Pros:
- Lots of pockets
- Breathable back panel
- Transfers weight to hips
- Large water bottle pockets
Cons:
- Suspension is bouncy
- Too many pockets for some
Arc'teryx Bora AR 65
Price:
- List Price: $320
The Arc'teryx Bora AR 65 exemplifies backpacking sophistication, offering a resilient 65-liter capacity for extensive journeys. It ets a high standard for those prioritizing top-tier performance and innovation in their outdoor pursuits.
- Materials: 210D CORDURA nylon
- Stated capacity: 65 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: No
Pros:
- Very adjustable
- Carbon fiber frame
- Lots of zipper pockets
Cons:
- Only one water bottle pocket
- No zippers on hip belt pockets
Big Agnes Parkview 63
Price:
- Amazon: $206
The Big Agnes Parkview 63 is a versatile and spacious backpack designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking comfort and organization on their journeys.
- Materials: Recycled high-tenacity Mipan regen robic nylon
- Stated capacity: 3 L + 10 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: No
Pros:
- Adjustable torso
- Great pockets
- Lots of lash points
- Comes with an extra stuff sack
Cons:
- Doesn't transfer load to hips well
- Small hip belt pockets
Osprey Rook 65
Price:
- List Price: $190
- Amazon: $190
The Osprey Rook 65 is a reliable and practical backpack, tailored for hikers seeking efficiency and durability. Crafted with Osprey's renowned attention to detail and durability, the Rook 65 strikes a good balance between functionality and value.
- Materials: 600D nylon ripstop
- Stated capacity: 65 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: yes
Pros:
- Bottom access
- Included pack cover
Cons:
- Difficult top-lid access
- Minimal features
- Heavier than expected
ALPS Mountaineering Cascade 90
Price:
- List Price: $290
- Amazon: $290
The ALPS Mountaineering Cascade 90 is a robust and capacious backpack designed for those venturing into challenging terrains. With an expansive 90-liter capacity, it accommodates extended expeditions with ease.
- Materials: 200D nylon double ripstop
- Stated capacity: 90 L
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Sleeping Bag Compartment: Yes
Pros:
- Huge volume capacity
- Lots of external pockets
- Very durable,
- Comes with rain cover
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
- Doesn't carry heavy loads the best