Best hiking backpacks 2025: our top picks across various types and sizes

ActiveHiking & WalkingBest hiking backpacks 2025: our top picks across various types and sizesThe best hiking backpacks, including lightweight day packs and big, tough bags for longer adventuresWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

The best hiking backpacks, including lightweight day packs and big, tough bags for longer adventures

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: The North Face)

best hiking backpacks: hiker wearing the full The North Face Summer Exploration Collection

(Image credit: The North Face)

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Setting off on a hiking escapade demands careful gear selection, and finding the perfect hiking backpack is the Holy Grail of successful adventures.

Whether you’re jaunting through a jungle gym of trails or tackling the Mount Everest of peaks, your backpack should be your trusty sidekick, offering comfort, space, and organisation to carry all your essentials without turning you into a hunched-over sherpa (sherpas are the MVPs, though).

Selecting the right backpack is as vital as picking the perfecthiking bootsor the ultimatebackpacking tent. It’s like finding your soulmate but with more pockets and fewer emotional breakdowns.

In this epic saga of backpacks, we’ll uncover a treasure trove of options suitable for every type of adventure. From featherweight daypacks to behemoth multi-day packs, we’ll delve into the depths of features, benefits, and considerations to ensure your gear matches your hiking style like peanut butter to jelly. So buckle up, grab your compass, and let’s embark on this wild journey to find your backpack soulmate.

Best hiking backpacks to buy now right now

Why you can trust T3Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you.Find out more about how we test.

(Image credit: Sian Lewis)

Osprey Tempest/Talon Pro

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(Image credit: Sian Lewis)

Osprey Tempest Pro 28 / Talon Pro 30Best hiking backpack overallOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsCapacity:28L (Tempest Pro), 30L (Talon Pro)Waterproof:Water resistantWeight:1kg (Tempest Pro), 1.1kg (Talon Pro)Today’s Best DealsView at Jenson USAView at AmazonView at REI.comReasons to buy+Perfect daypack size+Mountain-ready extras+Comfortable strapsReasons to avoid-On the heavier side
Osprey Tempest Pro 28 / Talon Pro 30

1. Osprey Tempest Pro 28 / Talon Pro 30

Best hiking backpack overall

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsCapacity:28L (Tempest Pro), 30L (Talon Pro)Waterproof:Water resistantWeight:1kg (Tempest Pro), 1.1kg (Talon Pro)

Capacity:28L (Tempest Pro), 30L (Talon Pro)Waterproof:Water resistantWeight:1kg (Tempest Pro), 1.1kg (Talon Pro)

Capacity:28L (Tempest Pro), 30L (Talon Pro)

Waterproof:Water resistant

Weight:1kg (Tempest Pro), 1.1kg (Talon Pro)

Today’s Best DealsView at Jenson USAView at AmazonView at REI.com

Today’s Best Deals

View at Jenson USAView at AmazonView at REI.com

View at Jenson USA

View at Amazon

View at REI.com

Reasons to buy+Perfect daypack size+Mountain-ready extras+Comfortable straps

+Perfect daypack size+Mountain-ready extras+Comfortable straps

Perfect daypack size

Mountain-ready extras

Comfortable straps

Reasons to avoid-On the heavier side

-On the heavier side

On the heavier side

For our money, the best hiking backpack right now is the Osprey Tempest Pro (for men) and Osprey Talon Pro (for women). This excellent backpack will give you all the storage you need for a big day out as well as features that you’ll appreciate if you’re hitting the mountains and fells. For big days out, you’ll find hydration pack compatibility as well as loops for ice axes and trekking poles; these packs also feature well-designed strap systems that’ll fit you snugly all day.

The Tempest Pro gives you 28 litres of storage, while the Talon Pro can hold up to 30 litres, enough for everything you might need for a long day’s excursion. Bear in mind, though, that at around a kilogram in weight, these might be a bit heavy if you’re planning on keeping up the pace. They’re water-resistant enough to withstand all but the heaviest downpour and tough enough for most eventualities. In short, either could easily become your favourite hiking companion.

Read our fullOsprey Tempest Pro 28 / Talon Pro 30 backpack review

(Image credit: Future)

Vaude Brenta 24 hiking backpack, shot on some grass, close up

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(Image credit: Future)

Vaude BrentaBest day hiking backpackOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsCapacity:24L, 30L, 36+6L, 44+6LWaterproof:water repellent finishWeight:1,090gToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)View at AmazonView at Amazon(Blue)Reasons to buy+Breathable back design+Lots of added features+Sustainable materialsReasons to avoid-Side pockets not easy to reach
Vaude Brenta

2. Vaude Brenta

Best day hiking backpack

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsCapacity:24L, 30L, 36+6L, 44+6LWaterproof:water repellent finishWeight:1,090g

Capacity:24L, 30L, 36+6L, 44+6LWaterproof:water repellent finishWeight:1,090g

Capacity:24L, 30L, 36+6L, 44+6L

Waterproof:water repellent finish

Weight:1,090g

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)View at AmazonView at Amazon(Blue)

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Black)View at AmazonView at Amazon(Blue)

View at Amazon(Black)

View at Amazon

(Black)

View at Amazon

View at Amazon(Blue)

View at Amazon

(Blue)

Reasons to buy+Breathable back design+Lots of added features+Sustainable materials

+Breathable back design+Lots of added features+Sustainable materials

Breathable back design

Lots of added features

Sustainable materials

Reasons to avoid-Side pockets not easy to reach

-Side pockets not easy to reach

Side pockets not easy to reach

The Brenta is one of Vaude’s bestselling backpacks, and even in its smallest configuration – we tested the 24L version in our review – it packs in plenty of features that you’d normally only find on bigger hiking backpacks. It has a height-adjustable back with hip and chest straps for better weight distribution, as well as an ‘Aeroflex 3D suspension system’ that uses mesh to keep the main body of the pack away from your back for extra breathability.

This isn’t a casual backpack for taking to the office; features such as an integrated rain cover, a flap for a platypus tube and a hoop for holding a walking pole are all evidence that this is for serious hiking; naturally, there is all manner of pockets for stashing your gear. It’s water-repellent and made from 50% recycled polyester, and crucially it’s easy to adjust and comfortable for all-day wear in the great outdoors.

Read our fullVaude Brenta hiking backpack review

(Image credit: Osprey)

Berghaus Alpine 45

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(Image credit: Osprey)

Berghaus Alpine 45Best affordable hiking backpackSpecificationsCapacity:50LWaterproof:YesWeight:955gToday’s Best DealsCheck AmazonReasons to buy+Light+Super clean lines+Keen price point
Berghaus Alpine 45

3. Berghaus Alpine 45

Best affordable hiking backpack

SpecificationsCapacity:50LWaterproof:YesWeight:955g

Capacity:50LWaterproof:YesWeight:955g

Capacity:50L

Waterproof:Yes

Weight:955g

Today’s Best DealsCheck Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

Check Amazon

Reasons to buy+Light+Super clean lines+Keen price point

+Light+Super clean lines+Keen price point

Light

Super clean lines

Keen price point

The Berghaus Alpine 45 keeps things simple, as well as the costs down, making it a strong contender in our best hiking backpack ranking. With a 45-litre capacity, you’ve plenty of space for any adventure but not enough to be tempted into taking the kitchen sink along. Neat side compression straps keep the clean lines intact even when in use, with plenty of additional attachment points for poles, skis, tents and a reflective bungee for that extra layer you’ve just taken off.

A simple roll-top enclosure will keep the worst of the weather at bay and is easily managed wearing gloves, while the back support is removable if shaving those extra grams is a priority. Low-profile straps and a slim-line hip belt reduce faff to the minimum without reducing comfort, and there’s even a small zipped pocket for essentials too. In short, there’s everything you need here for a great day out and nothing you don’t. Sounds good to us…

Make sure you check ourBerghaus discount codesto pick up a saving.

(Image credit: Future)

Osprey Talon 55 on a cliff leaning against a wooden fence, with a large beach at low tide in the background

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(Image credit: Future)

Osprey Talon 55 / Tempest 50Best hiking backpack for multi-day tripsSpecificationsCapacity:55L / 50LWaterproof:NoWeight:1.4 kg / 1.6kgToday’s Best DealsCheck AmazonVisit SiteReasons to buy+Versatile design+Comfortable and supportive to wear+Uses recycled materialsReasons to avoid-Bladder can be hard to pack when full
Osprey Talon 55 / Tempest 50

4. Osprey Talon 55 / Tempest 50

Best hiking backpack for multi-day trips

SpecificationsCapacity:55L / 50LWaterproof:NoWeight:1.4 kg / 1.6kg

Capacity:55L / 50LWaterproof:NoWeight:1.4 kg / 1.6kg

Capacity:55L / 50L

Waterproof:No

Weight:1.4 kg / 1.6kg

Today’s Best DealsCheck AmazonVisit Site

Today’s Best Deals

Check AmazonVisit Site

Check Amazon

Visit Site

Reasons to buy+Versatile design+Comfortable and supportive to wear+Uses recycled materials

+Versatile design+Comfortable and supportive to wear+Uses recycled materials

Versatile design

Comfortable and supportive to wear

Uses recycled materials

Reasons to avoid-Bladder can be hard to pack when full

-Bladder can be hard to pack when full

Bladder can be hard to pack when full

The bigger version of the same line we have in the top spot on this list, the Osprey Talon 55 (for men) and Tempest 50 (for women), is an excellent option for multi-day adventures. In our review, our tester praised how lightweight, comfortable and supportive it was in use. There is a large top-loading compartment with zippered side access, and to keep things organised internally, there’s another small base compartment that can be separated using the in-built divider.

The detachable floating top lid can be used to add volume. A headline feature is the back system, which is fully adjustable and extremely breathable too. If you’re after a versatile mid-sized pack that looks stylish, can hold a decent amount of outdoorsy kit, and will last, this is a great choice.

Read our fullOsprey Talon 55 / Tempest 50 review

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

The North Face Trail Lite 65 Backpack review

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

The North Face Trail Lite BackpackBest 65-litre hiking backpackOur expert review:SpecificationsCapacity:65LWaterproof:210D recycled nylon Ripstop with non-PFC Durable Water-Repellent (Non-PFC DWR) finishWeight:1,800g/63.5oz (65L, L/XL)Reasons to buy+Plenty of pockets and compartments for organising+Large, easy-to-access main compartment+DRW finish offers some weatherproofing+Well-padded and comfortable to wear over long distancesReasons to avoid-A bit OTT for shorter hikes
The North Face Trail Lite Backpack

5. The North Face Trail Lite Backpack

Best 65-litre hiking backpack

Our expert review:

SpecificationsCapacity:65LWaterproof:210D recycled nylon Ripstop with non-PFC Durable Water-Repellent (Non-PFC DWR) finishWeight:1,800g/63.5oz (65L, L/XL)

Capacity:65LWaterproof:210D recycled nylon Ripstop with non-PFC Durable Water-Repellent (Non-PFC DWR) finishWeight:1,800g/63.5oz (65L, L/XL)

Capacity:65L

Waterproof:210D recycled nylon Ripstop with non-PFC Durable Water-Repellent (Non-PFC DWR) finish

Weight:1,800g/63.5oz (65L, L/XL)

Reasons to buy+Plenty of pockets and compartments for organising+Large, easy-to-access main compartment+DRW finish offers some weatherproofing+Well-padded and comfortable to wear over long distances

+Plenty of pockets and compartments for organising+Large, easy-to-access main compartment+DRW finish offers some weatherproofing+Well-padded and comfortable to wear over long distances

Plenty of pockets and compartments for organising

Large, easy-to-access main compartment

DRW finish offers some weatherproofing

Well-padded and comfortable to wear over long distances

Reasons to avoid-A bit OTT for shorter hikes

-A bit OTT for shorter hikes

A bit OTT for shorter hikes

The North Face Trail Lite Backpack stands out as the best 65-litre hiking backpack available today. Ideal for overnight hikes for two or generously packed solo treks, its numerous pockets and compartments keep trail equipment organised, from large items in the main compartment to smaller essentials in the top lid and hip belt zippered pockets.

Featuring a DWR finish, this backpack offers protection from light showers and rain, keeping your gear dry during unexpected weather. Despite its ample storage, the Trail Lite Backpack remains comfortable to wear thanks to its adjustable back panel, dual-density foam hip belt, and supportive shoulder straps, ensuring you can carry it with ease throughout your journey.

Read our fullThe North Face Trail Lite Backpack review.

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

Lowepro PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack BP 24L AW III review

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

Lowepro PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack BP 24L AW IIIBest hiking backpack for photographersOur expert review:SpecificationsCapacity:24LWaterproof:DWR finish + integrated rain coverWeight:TBCToday’s Best DealsView at WalmartView at BHPhotoView at Amazon(Black)Reasons to buy+Removable camera compartment+Semi-integrated rain cover+The perfect size for day trips+Allows you to create your own system+Organisational pockets in all the right placesReasons to avoid-The hip belt isn’t removable
Lowepro PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack BP 24L AW III

6. Lowepro PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack BP 24L AW III

Best hiking backpack for photographers

Our expert review:

SpecificationsCapacity:24LWaterproof:DWR finish + integrated rain coverWeight:TBC

Capacity:24LWaterproof:DWR finish + integrated rain coverWeight:TBC

Capacity:24L

Waterproof:DWR finish + integrated rain cover

Weight:TBC

Today’s Best DealsView at WalmartView at BHPhotoView at Amazon(Black)

Today’s Best Deals

View at WalmartView at BHPhotoView at Amazon(Black)

View at Walmart

View at BHPhoto

View at Amazon(Black)

View at Amazon

(Black)

Reasons to buy+Removable camera compartment+Semi-integrated rain cover+The perfect size for day trips+Allows you to create your own system+Organisational pockets in all the right places

+Removable camera compartment+Semi-integrated rain cover+The perfect size for day trips+Allows you to create your own system+Organisational pockets in all the right places

Removable camera compartment

Semi-integrated rain cover

The perfect size for day trips

Allows you to create your own system

Organisational pockets in all the right places

Reasons to avoid-The hip belt isn’t removable

-The hip belt isn’t removable

The hip belt isn’t removable

If you’re a photographer or content creator who likes being out and about, you need the PhotoSport BP 24L AW III. From the recycled, DWR-coated shell and the clever organisation pockets to the premium build quality and thoughtful little design elements, there is little not to love about the PhotoSport BP 24L AW III. Best of all, if you like the bag but think, ‘I might need something bigger’, Lowepro have you covered with the gazillion different size options available on their website and via third-party retailers.

We found the 24-litre variety the perfect size for day trips and short hikes. Also, the camera we use, theSonyAlpha a7 III, fits perfectly in the camera compartment, leaving me more than enough space elsewhere in the bag to store all my bits and bobs. This is the hiking backpack for photographers to beat for sure!

Read our fullLowepro PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack BP 24L AW III review.

(Image credit: Sian Lewis)

Fjallraven Abisko Friluft on some grass

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(Image credit: Sian Lewis)

Fjallraven Abisko Friluft 35Best hiking backpack for weekendsOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsCapacity:35LWaterproof:NoWeight:1.55kgToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Green)Reasons to buy+Great quality+Well-placed pockets+Smart looksReasons to avoid-Blue version shows dirt easily
Fjallraven Abisko Friluft 35

7. Fjallraven Abisko Friluft 35

Best hiking backpack for weekends

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsCapacity:35LWaterproof:NoWeight:1.55kg

Capacity:35LWaterproof:NoWeight:1.55kg

Capacity:35L

Waterproof:No

Weight:1.55kg

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Green)

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Green)

View at Amazon

(Green)

Reasons to buy+Great quality+Well-placed pockets+Smart looks

+Great quality+Well-placed pockets+Smart looks

Great quality

Well-placed pockets

Smart looks

Reasons to avoid-Blue version shows dirt easily

-Blue version shows dirt easily

Blue version shows dirt easily

A bit big for a daypack and not quite roomy enough for a week away, Fjallraven’s Abisko Friluft 35 is the perfect size for a two-day adventure in the outdoors. Its 35-litre capacity plus an extendable top lid means that you can comfortably pack for two days way (or even three if you pack light), and it comes with plenty of additional pockets for stashing all your bits and bobs.

It looks great, and it’s comfortable to wear for extended periods. However, we’d be wary of choosing the pale blue colourway as it attracts dirt like nobody’s business. Go for the black or dark green instead, and you’ll be rewarded with a weekend pack that ticks all the boxes.

Read our fullFjallraven Abisko Friluft 35 review

(Image credit: Sian Lewis)

Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD Backpack

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(Image credit: Sian Lewis)

Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTDBest premium hiking backpackOur expert review:SpecificationsCapacity:64LWaterproof:water-resistant, rain cover includedWeight:2.9kgToday’s Best DealsView at Outdoor Gear ExchangeView at Backcountry.comCheck AmazonReasons to buy+Great quality+Supportive, weight-reducing frameReasons to avoid-Really expensive-May not suit curvier bodies
Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD

8. Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD

Best premium hiking backpack

Our expert review:

SpecificationsCapacity:64LWaterproof:water-resistant, rain cover includedWeight:2.9kg

Capacity:64LWaterproof:water-resistant, rain cover includedWeight:2.9kg

Capacity:64L

Waterproof:water-resistant, rain cover included

Weight:2.9kg

Today’s Best DealsView at Outdoor Gear ExchangeView at Backcountry.comCheck Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

View at Outdoor Gear ExchangeView at Backcountry.comCheck Amazon

View at Outdoor Gear Exchange

View at Backcountry.com

Check Amazon

Reasons to buy+Great quality+Supportive, weight-reducing frame

+Great quality+Supportive, weight-reducing frame

Great quality

Supportive, weight-reducing frame

Reasons to avoid-Really expensive-May not suit curvier bodies

-Really expensive-May not suit curvier bodies

Really expensive

May not suit curvier bodies

If you can stomach the extravagant price point, the limited edition Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD has a lot going for it. The bag features a 3D-printed PU back panel that’s springy and flexible and does a great job of allowing your back to stay cool and sweat-free, even over an extended hike. It’s well-specced with plenty of pockets and straps for everything you might need to carry, as well as a compression compartment for your sleeping bag and even room for a water reservoir.

At 64 litres capacity, it’s not small, and despite the name, it’s not especially lightweight, weighing in at almost 3kg. The Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD is weatherproof if not quite waterproof, and if you need a rucksack that offers tip-top performance for long-distance adventures, it’s definitely up to the job, although we expect the price will put many off.

Read our fullOsprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD backpack review

(Image credit: Snow Peak)

Snow Peak Active Backpack Type 01

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(Image credit: Snow Peak)

Snow Peak Active Backpack Type 01Best hiking backpack for touringSpecificationsCapacity:43LWaterproof:no information availableWeight:1.84kgToday’s Best DealsView at Snow PeakReasons to buy+Dual-storage space+Handy daisy chains+Water resistant materialReasons to avoid-Little on the heavier side
Snow Peak Active Backpack Type 01

9. Snow Peak Active Backpack Type 01

Best hiking backpack for touring

SpecificationsCapacity:43LWaterproof:no information availableWeight:1.84kg

Capacity:43LWaterproof:no information availableWeight:1.84kg

Capacity:43L

Waterproof:no information available

Weight:1.84kg

Today’s Best DealsView at Snow Peak

Today’s Best Deals

View at Snow Peak

Reasons to buy+Dual-storage space+Handy daisy chains+Water resistant material

+Dual-storage space+Handy daisy chains+Water resistant material

Dual-storage space

Handy daisy chains

Water resistant material

Reasons to avoid-Little on the heavier side

-Little on the heavier side

Little on the heavier side

A more traditional hiking rucksack design, the Snow Peak Active Backpack Type 01 ONE boasts a decent 43 litre capacity, more than enough for multiple days on the trail, hut-to-hut excursions and short camping jaunts. The two separate areas of storage help keep the contents organised, one accessible from the top, one via a zipped rear section, and with an outer of water-resistant nylon it’ll shrug off all but the heaviest downpours.

The super-wide hip belt should soak up much of the load-carrying work, and also has zipped pockets for trail essentials – handy for a soft flask and snacks to keep you fuelled on the go. On the downside, this is a heavier bag than we’d like (just under 2kg for the bag alone), and the price point is on the high side. However, if you’re looking for that traditional dual-storage area hiking rucksack in tasteful tactical black, this is well worth checking out.

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

Fjallraven Kanken Outlong review

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(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

Fjallraven Kanken OutlongBest lightweight hiking backpackSpecificationsCapacity:18LWaterproof:NoWeight:500gReasons to buy+More spacious than standard Kankens+Side pockets are big enough for water bottles+Organisational pockets galore+Durable yet lightweight constructionReasons to avoid-Not waterproof
Fjallraven Kanken Outlong

10. Fjallraven Kanken Outlong

Best lightweight hiking backpack

SpecificationsCapacity:18LWaterproof:NoWeight:500g

Capacity:18LWaterproof:NoWeight:500g

Capacity:18L

Waterproof:No

Weight:500g

Reasons to buy+More spacious than standard Kankens+Side pockets are big enough for water bottles+Organisational pockets galore+Durable yet lightweight construction

+More spacious than standard Kankens+Side pockets are big enough for water bottles+Organisational pockets galore+Durable yet lightweight construction

More spacious than standard Kankens

Side pockets are big enough for water bottles

Organisational pockets galore

Durable yet lightweight construction

Reasons to avoid-Not waterproof

-Not waterproof

Not waterproof

Addressing the limitations, the Fjallraven Kanken Outlong emerged as a comparatively spacious and functional daypack. With an 18-litre capacity, six pockets, and durable Vinylon F fabric, it offers versatility for commuting and solo day hiking trips. Notably, it’s the lightest hiking backpack at only 500 grams.

We loved the mature design, which includes padded shoulder straps, oversized zip pulls, and webbing attachments for outdoor adventures. Its sustainability features, including recycled materials and PFC-free production, align with Fjallraven’s ethos.

The Kanken Outlong excels as an excellent daypack, offering a balance of functionality, style, and eco-friendliness, making it an ideal companion for urban commutes and outdoor excursions.

Read our fullFjallraven Kanken Outlong review.

How to choose the best hiking backpack for you

Hiking is all things to all people, so getting the right balance between weight, size and robustness is key, especially for something you’ll be wearing on your back for many days in total. Modern materials mean that ye olde steel frame rucksacks are broadly unnecessary, unless you’re in training and want to carry the extra weight. Here are some things to look for when choosing the best hiking backpack for you:

VolumeArguably the most important starting point. How much do youreallyneed to carry? Summer rambling along the coast requires a different set of kit to winter wild camping, but don’t get carried away and buy a giant windsock of a thing that needs an SAS team to carry once filled.

FitCheck and check again that the rucksack fits your back well. Most makes have different back sizes available, so try a few on with both a light load and a heavy one (most shops have weight bags for this). If there’s a hip belt, this should rest on the top of your hip bones, and adjust to a comfortable tightness – this can transfer a lot of weight from your shoulders to your hips, so don’t underestimate the importance of a well-fitting hip belt. And of course, none of this is any good if the straps aren’t adjusted correctly: here’show to fit a backpack.

WeightLighter is nearly always better, and that often means the minimum of random bells and whistles, which all add weight. Don’t be afraid to cut off straps and fastenings you know you’ll never use.

Pockets and strapsThink about what you’ll need to carry, and how accessible you’ll need it to be. Streamlined designs might look smart, but when you’re having to unpack the whole thing to access yourtorchin the middle of the evening, pockets start to look more appealing.

FAQ

Which hiking backpack materials perform the best?

Modern hiking backpacks are made from whatever fabric you desire, from Dyneema and kevlar to canvas and steel. There is usually a compromise somewhere in materials, but also that simple, tried, and tested materials are unlikely to disappoint you. In contrast, that experimental new kevlar weave might delaminate in strong sunlight.

Although DWR coatings are helpful to avoid fabric wetting out and adding weight, covers and special ‘waterproof’ closures tend not to work in actual outdoor weather, so are best ignored. Remember, the actual ultralight hiking backpacks on the market will wear out quickly, so it’s probably wise to pick a slightly more robust model with durable materials. But, again, your planned use is the key to choosing the right blend of weight versus durability.

What’s the best size for a hiking backpack?

Round up of today’s best deals

Osprey Talon Pro 30$230ViewSee all pricesVaude Brenta$119.94ViewSee all pricesLowepro PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack BP$230.99ViewSee all pricesFjällräven Abisko Friluft 35$209.36ViewSee all pricesOsprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD$700ViewSee all prices

Osprey Talon Pro 30$230ViewSee all prices

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$230

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$230.99

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Fjällräven Abisko Friluft 35$209.36ViewSee all prices

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Fjällräven Abisko Friluft 35

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$209.36

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Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD$700ViewSee all prices

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Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD

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$700

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Canyon Grizl:ON CF Daily review

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Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 with solar panel

Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 review: a low-weight battery juicer for thirsty devicesFuss-free electricity for the great outdoors and household emergencies

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Best hiking backpacks to buy now right now#

1. Osprey Tempest Pro 28 / Talon Pro 30#

2. Vaude Brenta#

3. Berghaus Alpine 45#

4. Osprey Talon 55 / Tempest 50#

5. The North Face Trail Lite Backpack#

6. Lowepro PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack BP 24L AW III#

7. Fjallraven Abisko Friluft 35#

8. Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD#

9. Snow Peak Active Backpack Type 01#

10. Fjallraven Kanken Outlong#

How to choose the best hiking backpack for you#

FAQ#

Which hiking backpack materials perform the best?#

What’s the best size for a hiking backpack?#

Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox#

Best hiking backpacks to buy now right now

1. Osprey Tempest Pro 28 / Talon Pro 30

2. Vaude Brenta

3. Berghaus Alpine 45

4. Osprey Talon 55 / Tempest 50

5. The North Face Trail Lite Backpack

6. Lowepro PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack BP 24L AW III

7. Fjallraven Abisko Friluft 35

8. Osprey Antigravity 64 UNLTD

9. Snow Peak Active Backpack Type 01

10. Fjallraven Kanken Outlong

How to choose the best hiking backpack for you

FAQ

Which hiking backpack materials perform the best?

What’s the best size for a hiking backpack?

Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox