Hiking or backpacking is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature. However, you always have gear that needs to go along on the journey and having the best hiking backpack can make life so much easier out in the backcountry. One of the most common questions we have come across is, “What backpack should you use when hiking?” Once you have found one, you should be ready for every trip.
The best hiking backpack has ample storage space for all your gear. However, you should not stop with storage space, and you also need to look for durability and how comfortable it s to carry the backpack. The ultimate backpack has enough storage space while being easy to carry.
Since there are so many dimensions of the perfect backpack, we have decided to choose a backpack and design comfortable for all your needs. When you are looking for a new backpack, the following guide could be something useful to ensure you get great value for your money. Here are some of the important things to keep in mind when buying your next backpack.
What Do You Need To Look For When Buying A Hiking Backpack?
Storage and comfort are the two most important elements of selecting a new hiking backpack. Once you have these down, it should be much easier to find one that meets all your needs. Comfort relates to the straps of the backpack and the padding. As you will notice, the best backpacks have numerous straps and padding to ensure they are comfortable.
Storage refers to the internal components and how much of your gear you could keep inside. While you might be tempted to go for the biggest backpack, keep in mind that it also needs to be lightweight. Backpacking requires long-distance trekking, and you will have to carry all the gear along in a comfortable manner.
Key Features To Look For In A Hiking Backpack
Before we dive into some of the top hiking backpacks, you can buy them immediately. You need to understand which process we followed in selecting these backpacks. In the following section, we will look deeper at some of these elements. You can now use these features as a buyer’s guide of your own and select the most useful option for your needs.
Materials
Backpacks come in a variety of shapes and forms, but the materials are important. Since you are backpacking, you need to keep in mind that the backpack might get wet. Polyester is one of the best materials to mitigate wet weather. It will dry out rapidly and ensure that you are ready for your grip in wet conditions.
Storage Space
The storage space of any backpack is measured in liters. While it is hard for us to determine the exact size that will be useful for your trip, you might want to consider something in the range of 30-50 liters to ensure enough storage space. Keep an eye out for the internal storage components and how it is structured.
Weight
One needs to keep the weight of any backpacking expedition as low as possible. Yes, you will add some weight with the gear you are carrying along. However, you might want to keep the bag as light as possible. Generally, you will find that the bag’s weight is indicated when you purchase it and look at the specs.
Straps And Padding
Since you will need to carry the bag on your shoulders for prolonged periods, it is important to make sure they are comfortable. You can look at the straps and the padding on the back of the backpack. There should be ample padding with moisture-wicking capabilities. It is even more of a bonus if the straps have padding, reducing the impact when walking.
Accessories
Not every bag will have accessories, but it can be beneficial if you find one that does. In terms of accessories, you might have a bladder that makes it easier to stay hydrated. Additionally, you can have side pockets for personal belongings as well. Many of the high-end options can even have solar panels to charge your mobile devices.
Top 3 Hiking Backpacks On The Market Today
With all the features out of the way, it should be much easier for you to focus on the best backpacks. If you don’t feel like using the features to find the best options, we have included a few top options. You can use these bags for backpacking, but they also measure sticks for when you want to buy a different option:
TETON Sports Oasis 1200 Hydration Pack
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Price: $48.16
Pros:
- Includes a bladder
- Reliable brand
- 20-liter capacity
- Adjustable to all frames
- Affordable
Cons:
- Small internal capacity
Bottom Line: The TETON Sports Oasis 1200 Hydration Pack is one of the top options, and it is made by one of the best brands. It is made from polyester, and the design is adjustable. The unit includes a 3-liter bladder, and it will give you an internal capacity of 20-liters.
Osprey Viva 50 Women’s Backpacking Pack
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Price: $159.96
Pros:
- Ergonomic for women
- 50-liter capacity
- Includes a sleeping bag compartment
- 50-pound weight capacity
Cons:
- Expensive
Bottom Line: As a lady, you might want to consider the Osprey Viva 50 Women’s Backpacking Pack. It might be more expensive, but the design and padding are perfect for the average woman. The backpack is lightweight at only 4-pounds, but it can hold up to 50-pounds of weight. We recommend it to female backpackers
High Sierra Appalachian Top Load Internal Frame Hiking Pack
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Price: $116.99
Pros:
- Solid internal frame
- Top loading design
- 75-liter capacity
- Ripstop nylon construction
Cons:
- Heavy
Bottom Line: For longer backpacking trips, you might want to look at the High Sierra Appalachian Top Load Internal Frame Hiking Pack. The backpack is much heavier but features an internal frame that will keep the unit solid. It has a 75-liter capacity, and the top-loading design will ensure that you can easily store all your belongings.
Need Help Preparing for a Hike or Backpacking Trip?
Check out our Hiking Equipment Guide for Beginners. It’s a complete list of gear that every beginner should have!
Hiking Backpack Buyers Guide Summary
Selecting a backpack might not be as easy as it seems. However, when you have the right one, your trips will be much easier. The above-mentioned backpack might not be the overall best, but they offer great value for the money. Let us know in the comment section which backpacks you prefer and if we have missed your favorites.