This list of the best outdoor backpacks provides options from day hiking to long backpacking trips. This post breaks down weight, durability, structure, and function of an outdoor backpack.
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Tips For Choosing Outdoor Backpacks
There are key features to consider when choosing outdoor backpacks. These tips will help you decide on a pack depending on what you’ll be bringing and how you plan to use your backpack.
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Weight
When choosing a backpack, the lighter the better. Especially on longer trips, a light backpack will cause less pain and muscle fatigue. More structured packs are heavier due to reinforcements, while less structured packs tend to be lighter. Overall, your outdoor backpack should weigh no more than 20 percent of your body weight when full. Only pack essentials to keep your pack weight down, and find a good balance between weight and structure.
Durability
Especially when hiking, a durable backpack will hold up against the elements. Outdoor backpacks are more versatile than your average pack. They can be used as a backrest, a seat, a pillow, and more. There are sharp branches and elements along the trail that can potentially damage your pack if it isn’t durable. Your backpack holds your essentials, but can also protect you if you happen to fall backwards.
Structure
Depending on the primary use of your pack, structure is important. Outdoor backpacks are constructed to distribute the weight evenly to prevent shoulder and back pain on long treks. Consider the location and distance you’ll be carrying your backpack to decide whether you need a more structured pack or not.
Features
Outdoor backpacks are made to be as convenient as possible so you can have access to your essentials even on the go. Some feature an easy access zipper that allows you to get to the bottom of your bag without unpacking everything on top first. Most have side pockets and sleeping bag pockets to keep your bag organized for multiple day trips. Backpacks with a hydration reservoir pocket provide you with easy access to water on the go.
Best Day Pack
Osprey Tempest 9
From $123.70
Weight: 1.79 lb
Capacity: 9L
The Osprey Tempest 9 backpack is perfect for about a half day of hiking, biking, kayaking, or any other outdoor activity. This outdoor backpack features a reservoir pocket to hold plenty of water, plus side and hip-belt pockets for easy access to essentials. This is a convenient, ultralight daypack option for any outdoor activity.
Best Weekender Backpack
Gregory Amber 44
From $150
Weight: 2.83 lb
Capacity: 44L
The Gregory Amber 44 backpack is the perfect size for a weekend backpacking trip. Around 50L is a good size for a weekend pack, as it can hold enough for up to 3 days and 2 nights without extra weight. This outdoor backpack features a sleeping bag pocket, a reservoir pocket, a hip-belt with pockets, and extra structure to distribute the weight evenly.
Best Carry On Travel Pack
Cotopaxi Allpa 28L
From $170
Weight: 2.63 lb
Capacity: 28L
The Cotopaxi Allpa 28L pack is perfect for travel, especially when flying. This outdoor backpack is a perfect carry on size and provides easy access to all of your essentials. The features of this backpack include a removable hip-belt, side handles, a laptop sleeve, and a suitcase like design. This pack doubles as a daypack when you get to your destination.
Best Long Trip Backpack
Kelty Coyote
From $142.46
Weight: 4lb 6 oz
Capacity: 60L – 105L
The Kelty Coyote Pack is the best outdoor backpack for long trips. This pack has multiple sizes to fit your unique hiking needs depending on the length of your hike. The many pockets on this backpack keep you organized with a spot for your sleeping bag, water bottle, bear canister, and more. This is a structured hiking pack built to keep you comfortable with more weight on your back. Backpacks with a capacity over 60L can accommodate 5-10 days of hiking and camping.
Best Budget Backpacking Pack
Bseash 60L Pack
From $43.99
Weight: 2.2 lb
Capacity: 60L
The Bseash 60L Backpack gives you quality at a great price. Hiking backpacks can be expensive, especially if you’re just starting out. This pack features a waterproof design, specified compartments, a rain cover, and more. Although this pack does not have as much structure, it features a hip-belt for added support with convenient pockets. This is a great starter pack for under $50.
These outdoor backpacks are great options for almost any adventure.
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