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10 Best Backpacking Packs 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10L Hiking Backpack - Almond-Ink

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,451
Material and Durability
Fit and Size
Features

Most important from
2 reviews

Material and Durability
The pack holds up great across different hiking scenarios, proving its reliability and durability.
Fit and Size
Its adjustable fit makes it comfortable and balanced even on challenging trails.
Features
Versatile enough to handle mountain climbs and multi-day hikes with ease.

The Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10L is designed for serious backpackers who need a reliable pack for longer trips. Its 65-liter main capacity plus a 10-liter expandable collar gives plenty of space for gear, appealing to those packing for several days. The adjustable VariSlide back system and ActiveFit shoulder straps help create a comfortable, balanced fit by keeping the load close to your body, which is important on tough trails.

Weighing around 4.15 pounds, it is moderately light for its size but not ultra-light, which is typical for durable, supportive packs like this. The internal frame aids in load transfer, making heavier loads feel more manageable. Access is convenient with a J-shaped front zipper and plenty of pockets and loops, including compatibility with a 3-liter hydration system, so staying organized and hydrated is easier. Hip fins and a lumbar pad improve comfort and stability, while features like the detachable trekking pole attachments and modular gear straps add versatility.

This backpack is well-suited for adult thru-hikers or multi-day adventurers who want a sturdy, comfortable pack with flexible storage options and good load support, though its weight may not appeal to ultralight hikers.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,451
Material and Durability
Fit and Size
Features

Most important from
2 reviews

Material and Durability
The pack holds up great across different hiking scenarios, proving its reliability and durability.
Fit and Size
Its adjustable fit makes it comfortable and balanced even on challenging trails.
Features
Versatile enough to handle mountain climbs and multi-day hikes with ease.
#2

Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack, Waterproof Camping Essentials Bag with Rain Cover, 45+5 Liter Lightweight Backpacking Back Pack

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Fit and Size
Access and Compartments

Most important from
5492 reviews

Capacity
Despite its large capacity, the backpack remains lightweight, making it suitable for both day hikes and extended trips.
Fit and Size
The backpack is comfortable to wear for long periods, thanks to breathable mesh shoulder straps and adjustable features that cater to different body types.
Access and Compartments
With ample space and multiple compartments, this backpack makes organizing and accessing gear easy, even on demanding trips like the Camino de Santiago.
Material and Durability
The Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack has proven to be durable, holding up well even under heavy use and abuse over several years.
Features
The waterproof design and included rain cover keep your gear dry, even in light rain without immediately needing the cover.

The Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack is a solid choice for backpackers looking for a versatile and lightweight option. With a capacity of 50 liters, it can accommodate enough gear for 3-5 days of outdoor adventures, making it suitable for hiking, camping, and trekking. One of its standout features is its waterproof design, complemented by a rain cover that provides extra protection against the elements. The use of tear-resistant materials ensures durability, which is crucial for rugged outdoor use.

Comfort is another strong point, with breathable mesh shoulder straps and ample padding that help relieve shoulder strain during long hikes. Its no-frame design contributes to its lightweight nature, weighing in at only 2.1 pounds, which is ideal for those looking to minimize pack weight. The bag’s organizational features are impressive as well, with a large main compartment, multiple external pockets, and a shoe separator that helps keep your gear organized and accessible.

The Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack is a practical option for those seeking a blend of comfort, durability, and capacity for outdoor adventures.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Fit and Size
Access and Compartments

Most important from
5492 reviews

Capacity
Despite its large capacity, the backpack remains lightweight, making it suitable for both day hikes and extended trips.
Fit and Size
The backpack is comfortable to wear for long periods, thanks to breathable mesh shoulder straps and adjustable features that cater to different body types.
Access and Compartments
With ample space and multiple compartments, this backpack makes organizing and accessing gear easy, even on demanding trips like the Camino de Santiago.
Material and Durability
The Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack has proven to be durable, holding up well even under heavy use and abuse over several years.
Features
The waterproof design and included rain cover keep your gear dry, even in light rain without immediately needing the cover.
#3

Deuter Futura 32 Hiking Backpack - Graphite-Shale

Rating
9.4
Material and Durability
Fit and Size
Frame Type

Most important from
438 reviews

Material and Durability
The backpack impresses with its sturdy build, delivering a solid feel despite initial impressions of flimsiness.
Fit and Size
Its lightweight design and well-fitting size make it an inviting choice for active hikers eager to hit the trail.
Frame Type
The bottom of the pack lacks sufficient padding and curves inward, causing discomfort and pressure points with heavier loads.
Features
The absence of bottom straps limits the ability to attach essential gear like tents or mats, which could be a drawback for some hikers.

The Deuter Futura 32 Hiking Backpack is a solid choice for hikers seeking a lightweight yet durable pack with a 32-liter capacity, suitable for day hikes or short overnight trips. It excels in comfort thanks to its ActiveFit shoulder harness that adjusts to your body shape and lumbar pads designed to fit hips well, which helps reduce strain during longer hikes. The Aircomfort Sensic back system is a standout feature, providing excellent ventilation by keeping a mesh layer between your back and the pack, reducing sweat and increasing comfort on warm days.

Weighing about 1.44 kilograms (roughly 3.2 pounds), it strikes a good balance between being lightweight and sturdy, with a flexible internal frame that shifts weight from shoulders to hips for better support. The pack offers plenty of organizational options including multiple external pockets, hiking pole loops, and a hydration system compatibility, making it easy to keep essentials handy. Durability is also well covered with strong polyester and nylon materials, and an included detachable rain cover adds protection against bad weather. Adjustability is another plus with straps to fine-tune height, width, and load stability.

The 32-liter size may be limiting for longer backpacking trips where more gear is needed, and some users might find the price a bit higher compared to simpler models. While it is a great option for advanced hikers, beginners might prefer something with more straightforward access points or fewer adjustment options. This backpack suits active hikers who value ventilation, comfort, and durability in moderate-capacity packs, especially in varied weather conditions.

Rating
9.4
Material and Durability
Fit and Size
Frame Type

Most important from
438 reviews

Material and Durability
The backpack impresses with its sturdy build, delivering a solid feel despite initial impressions of flimsiness.
Fit and Size
Its lightweight design and well-fitting size make it an inviting choice for active hikers eager to hit the trail.
Frame Type
The bottom of the pack lacks sufficient padding and curves inward, causing discomfort and pressure points with heavier loads.
Features
The absence of bottom straps limits the ability to attach essential gear like tents or mats, which could be a drawback for some hikers.

Buying Guide for the Best Backpacking Packs

Choosing the right backpacking pack is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor adventure. The right pack will fit well, carry your gear efficiently, and be durable enough to withstand the elements. When selecting a backpacking pack, consider the following key specifications to ensure you find the best fit for your needs.
CapacityCapacity refers to the volume of the pack, usually measured in liters. This spec is important because it determines how much gear you can carry. For short trips (1-3 days), a pack with 30-50 liters should suffice. For longer trips (3-5 days), consider a pack with 50-70 liters. For extended trips (5+ days), you may need a pack with 70+ liters. Choose a capacity based on the length of your trips and the amount of gear you need to carry.
Fit and SizeFit and size are crucial for comfort. Packs come in different sizes to fit various torso lengths and hip sizes. This spec is important because a well-fitting pack will distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your back and shoulders. To find the right fit, measure your torso length from the base of your neck to the top of your hip bones. Packs often come in small, medium, and large sizes, so choose one that matches your measurements. Adjustable packs can also help fine-tune the fit.
WeightThe weight of the pack itself is important because it adds to the total load you will be carrying. Lighter packs are generally more comfortable but may sacrifice durability and features. Ultralight packs (under 2 pounds) are great for minimalist hikers, while standard packs (2-5 pounds) offer a balance of weight and durability. Heavier packs (over 5 pounds) are typically more durable and feature-rich but can be cumbersome. Choose a weight that balances comfort and functionality based on your hiking style.
Frame TypeBackpacking packs come with different frame types: internal, external, and frameless. This spec is important because it affects how the pack carries weight and how stable it feels. Internal frame packs are the most common and offer good weight distribution and stability. External frame packs are less common but provide excellent ventilation and load-carrying capacity. Frameless packs are lightweight and suitable for experienced hikers who carry minimal gear. Choose a frame type based on your experience level and the type of terrain you will be hiking.
Access and CompartmentsAccess and compartments refer to how you can get to your gear and how the pack is organized. This spec is important because it affects convenience and organization. Top-loading packs are simple and lightweight but can make it harder to reach items at the bottom. Panel-loading packs have zippers that allow easy access to all areas of the pack. Packs with multiple compartments and pockets help keep gear organized. Choose a pack with access and compartments that match your organizational preferences and the type of gear you carry.
Material and DurabilityThe material and durability of the pack are important for ensuring it can withstand the rigors of backpacking. Packs are typically made from nylon or polyester, with varying denier ratings indicating thickness and durability. Higher denier materials are more durable but heavier. Look for packs with reinforced areas and quality stitching. Choose a material that balances durability and weight based on the conditions you expect to encounter and how rough you are on your gear.
FeaturesFeatures include additional elements like hydration compatibility, rain covers, gear loops, and adjustable straps. This spec is important because it can enhance your backpacking experience. Hydration-compatible packs have a sleeve for a water reservoir, making it easy to stay hydrated. Rain covers protect your gear from wet weather. Gear loops and attachment points allow you to carry extra items like trekking poles or ice axes. Adjustable straps help customize the fit. Choose features that align with your specific needs and preferences.

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