10 Best Womens Hiking Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack is a solid choice for women hikers who want a lightweight and versatile backpack with hydration built in. Its 18-liter capacity offers enough room for essentials without feeling bulky, making it great for day hikes or shorter outdoor activities like running and cycling. The included 2-liter water bladder is a big plus, with a wide opening for easy cleaning and ice, along with a leakproof design that ensures you stay hydrated on the go.

Comfort-wise, the pack features adjustable, breathable shoulder straps with high-density foam that should fit well for various body types, including women, thanks to its athletic, low-profile cut. The material feels durable with the 210D polyester ripstop fabric, which also helps protect your gear from rain and dirt, complemented by weather-guarded zippers and a sewn-in rain cover. Its weight of 2 pounds is fairly light, which adds to ease during longer hikes.

It does not have a rigid frame, so it may not provide as much structure or support for heavier loads or very rugged terrain. The bungee cord system and other outdoor-ready features add practical value but the size and design lean toward lighter, moderate use rather than heavy-duty hiking. If you want a reliable hydration pack that balances comfort, decent capacity, and durability for daily hikes and active outdoor use, this pack fits the bill well.

The Maelstrom Hydration Backpack is a solid choice for women who want a lightweight and functional hiking backpack with hydration features. It offers a 20-liter capacity, which is roomy enough for day hikes, letting you carry clothes, first aid, tools, and personal items in its multiple specialized pockets. Weighing just under 2 pounds, it’s easy to carry without adding much bulk. While it doesn’t have a rigid frame, the adjustable chest and waist straps, along with a breathable padded back, help provide a secure and comfortable fit for various body sizes.

The highlight is its 2-liter hydration bladder with an insulated compartment to keep water cool, a replaceable bladder option, and a high-flow bite valve designed to prevent leaks—great for staying hydrated on the move. The backpack is made of durable, high-density nylon with reflective strips for safety in low light, plus it includes a whistle for emergencies.

One downside is that the lack of a firm frame might reduce support on rough terrain or for heavier loads, and the 20-liter size may be a bit small for longer hikes needing more gear. Nevertheless, its thoughtful pocket design and hydration system make it especially suitable for active users who value convenience and hydration during hiking, cycling, or similar outdoor activities.

The Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack is a solid choice for women who want a roomy but lightweight pack for day hikes or travel. It offers a generous 40-liter capacity, which is great for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and extra clothes without feeling cramped. Weighing just over 1 pound, it’s easy to carry and won’t add much extra load, making it suitable for longer outings where every ounce counts. The material is a durable, water-resistant nylon with reinforced stitching and a tough double-layer bottom, so it should hold up well to regular use on trails.

While it doesn’t have an internal frame, which some hikers prefer for better support and weight distribution, it does include padded, breathable shoulder straps and a chest clip to help keep the pack stable and comfortable. The pack’s standout feature is the waterproof wet pocket accessible from the back, perfect for separating sweaty or wet items, which adds convenience for active users. Multiple compartments and pockets help keep gear organized and easy to reach.

The reflective fabric enhances safety by improving visibility in low light, a thoughtful addition for early morning or evening hikes. Those seeking a backpack specifically designed for women’s body shapes might find the fit less tailored, as this is a unisex design. Also, since it’s packable and foldable, it might not offer the same level of comfort or support as more structured hiking backpacks with frames. This backpack is ideal for casual to moderate hikers or travelers looking for a lightweight, versatile daypack with good organization and durability, rather than for demanding multi-day hikes needing heavy loads and advanced fit features.