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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

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,238
Capacity
Access and Compartments
Material and Durability

Most important from
5536 reviews

Capacity
This backpack stands out as an exceptionally reliable travel companion, comfortably fitting carry-on requirements across multiple airlines even when fully packed.
Access and Compartments
The spacious design includes numerous compartments that keep essentials like chargers and power banks easily accessible during travel.
Material and Durability
Built with durable materials and strong stitching, this pack handles heavy use without issues, proving its long-lasting quality.
Features
Padded shoulder straps and back support make carrying loads around 20 pounds comfortable for extended periods.
Fit and Size
Weight distribution is well balanced, allowing comfortable wear for 6 to 7 hours of hiking per day when packed thoughtfully.

The Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack is a budget-friendly option that offers solid value for casual hikers and campers. Its 45+5 liter capacity is roomy enough for multi-day trips or carrying essentials without feeling overloaded. The pack is designed without an internal frame, which keeps it lightweight and comfortable for those who prefer less structure and more mobility. The padded, S-shaped shoulder straps and breathable back support improve comfort and ventilation, helping reduce shoulder strain during long hikes.

Made from tear-resistant polyester and nylon, this backpack is durable and comes with a waterproof rain cover stored in the bottom pouch, which protects your gear from rain and dust. The absence of a frame might not provide enough support for heavier loads or longer backpacking trips where load stability is important. While the pack includes basic compartments, it lacks detailed organizational features that more advanced hikers might expect.

This makes it best suited for beginners or those who want a reliable, easy-to-use pack for day hikes or short camping trips without breaking the bank.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,238
Capacity
Access and Compartments
Material and Durability

Most important from
5536 reviews

Capacity
This backpack stands out as an exceptionally reliable travel companion, comfortably fitting carry-on requirements across multiple airlines even when fully packed.
Access and Compartments
The spacious design includes numerous compartments that keep essentials like chargers and power banks easily accessible during travel.
Material and Durability
Built with durable materials and strong stitching, this pack handles heavy use without issues, proving its long-lasting quality.
Features
Padded shoulder straps and back support make carrying loads around 20 pounds comfortable for extended periods.
Fit and Size
Weight distribution is well balanced, allowing comfortable wear for 6 to 7 hours of hiking per day when packed thoughtfully.
#2

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

Rating
10.0
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
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.
#3

Granite Gear Crown 3 60L Backpack - Dunes/Black Regular

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Frame Type
Access and Compartments

Most important from
29 reviews

Capacity
The pack excels in carrying loads between 30 to 40 pounds comfortably, making it ideal for moderately heavy multi-day trips.
Frame Type
Adding the aluminum stay is essential to prevent frame flex and side-to-side movement, significantly improving stability and handling.
Access and Compartments
Large side pockets and a spacious mesh pocket provide excellent storage options and easy access to essentials on the trail.
Features
The removable brain compartment doubles as a chest or belt pack, adding versatile carrying options.
Fit and Size
Shoulder straps feel thin and can cause discomfort on longer hikes, especially when carrying heavier loads.
Weight
Lightweight design and good adjustability make it a great value for backpackers looking for a roomy yet manageable pack.

The Granite Gear Crown 3 60L backpack is a solid choice for backpackers needing a roomy pack with 60 liters of capacity, suitable for multi-day trips. Its roll-top main compartment offers flexible access and easy compression, making it simple to pack and adjust load size. The pack includes dual large hip belt pockets with weather-resistant zippers, which are great for keeping essentials close and protected.

The dual-density shoulder harness with load-lifter straps and removable sternum straps helps balance the weight comfortably, though the design likely uses an internal frame with lightweight structural components. At about 1.25 kg (around 2.75 lbs), it is relatively lightweight for its size, helping reduce fatigue on longer hikes. The materials, including 210D and 100D HT nylon, are durable and water-resistant, supporting toughness in rough outdoor conditions.

Features like a hydration sleeve and port add convenience for staying hydrated on the trail, and the reflective logo improves visibility in low light. The lack of detailed sizing options beyond 'Regular' may affect fit for some users, and the backpack’s listed dimensions suggest a tall, narrow profile that might not suit all body types or packing styles. This pack works well for backpackers seeking a reliable, spacious, and lightweight option with useful features, but those needing custom fit adjustments or more access options might want to consider other models.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Frame Type
Access and Compartments

Most important from
29 reviews

Capacity
The pack excels in carrying loads between 30 to 40 pounds comfortably, making it ideal for moderately heavy multi-day trips.
Frame Type
Adding the aluminum stay is essential to prevent frame flex and side-to-side movement, significantly improving stability and handling.
Access and Compartments
Large side pockets and a spacious mesh pocket provide excellent storage options and easy access to essentials on the trail.
Features
The removable brain compartment doubles as a chest or belt pack, adding versatile carrying options.
Fit and Size
Shoulder straps feel thin and can cause discomfort on longer hikes, especially when carrying heavier loads.
Weight
Lightweight design and good adjustability make it a great value for backpackers looking for a roomy yet manageable pack.

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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