Whether you’re hiking the alpine trails of British Columbia, tackling multi-day treks in the Rockies, or exploring the desert canyons of Utah, one thing remains constant: your backpack is your most critical piece of gear. It’s not just storage—it’s your mobile basecamp, lifeline, and comfort zone.
Choosing the right and best hiking backpacks can make or break your outdoor experience. But with hundreds of options out there, how do you know which one is right for you?
This guide is the result of deep research across hiking forums, expert gear reviews, and real-world field reports. We’ve divided our picks into three categories based on trip length:
- Daypacks (15–36 liters): Ideal for short hikes and summit pushes
- Weekend/Overnight Packs (45–60 liters): Perfect for 1–3 night trips
- Multi-day/Expedition Packs (65–85 liters): For serious trekkers carrying more gear
Each pack on this list was selected based on the following criteria:
- Fit and comfort: Ergonomics, suspension systems, padding, and ventilation
- Durability and weight: How well it holds up in rugged conditions, without excess weight
- Weather resistance: Protection against rain, snow, and the elements
- Organization and access: Pockets, zippers, compartments, and hydration compatibility
- User reviews and field feedback: Insights from real hikers and outdoor experts
Let’s start with the best daypacks for hikers who like to keep it light and fast.
10 Best Hiking Backpacks
Best Daypacks (15 – 36L)
Daypacks are essential for short hikes, peak-bagging missions, and everyday outdoor adventures. A great daypack carries just enough to keep you safe and comfortable without weighing you down. Here are our top three picks for daypacks that blend performance, durability, and smart features.
1. Osprey Talon 22 / Tempest 22 – Best All-Around Daypack
- Capacity: 22L
- Weight: ~2.4 lbs (1.1 kg)
- Best For: Versatile day hiking, biking, climbing
- Price: ~$160 USD
Why We Love It:
The Osprey Talon 22 (and the women-specific Tempest 22) is the quintessential daypack for active adventurers. It’s lightweight, agile, and packed with features that make it suitable for everything from day hikes to biking and scrambling.
The Talon uses Osprey’s AirScape backpanel-flexible foam ridges covered with mesh, which provides excellent airflow and keeps the load close to your body. A padded hipbelt with dual zippered pockets ensures the weight stays on your hips, not your shoulders. It also comes with an internal hydration sleeve, stretch mesh side pockets, and a shove-it front pocket.
There are also dedicated attachments for trekking poles, an ice axe, helmet, and even a bike light. It’s a multitasker’s dream.
Real-World Feedback:
Hikers consistently praise the Talon’s comfort and mobility. Many mention that it feels “like an extension of your back.” However, those planning to carry heavier loads may want something with a bit more structure.
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2. Osprey Stratos 36 / Sirrus 36 – Most Comfortable Daypack
- Capacity: 36L
- Weight: ~3.3 lbs (1.5 kg)
- Best For: Long day hikes, light overnights, winter hiking
- Price: ~$220 USD
Why We Love It:
The Stratos 36 is a comfort-first pack with premium features. It has a full internal frame, making it ideal for carrying heavier day loads or gear for an ultralight overnight trip. Its suspended mesh backpanel offers unmatched ventilation, which is a game-changer in hot or humid climates.
With nine external pockets, zippered side access to the main compartment, a separate sleeping bag compartment, and an included rain cover, the Stratos 36 is one of the most organized daypacks available. It even includes sleeping pad straps for those occasional overnight ventures.
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Real-World Feedback:
This pack earns rave reviews for its load-carrying comfort. While heavier than ultralight daypacks, it excels in durability and support, especially when carrying gear for winter hikes or mountaineering day trips.
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3. REI Co-op Flash 22 – Best Ultralight Budget Daypack
- Capacity: 22L
- Weight: ~0.9 lbs (0.4 kg)
- Best For: Lightweight hiking, summit packs, budget-conscious hikers
- Price: ~$60 USD
Why We Love It:
The REI Flash 22 is proof that a minimalist, frameless design can still be comfortable and durable. This ultralight daypack is ideal for summit pushes, travel, or quick outings where you want to carry as little as possible.
It features a drawstring closure with a top lid pocket, two stretch side pockets, an internal hydration sleeve, and removable foam back panel. The hipbelt is a simple webbing strap, and the whole pack compresses easily into larger bags.
Real-World Feedback:
Backpackers and hikers love the Flash 22’s simplicity and versatility. While not built for carrying more than ~10–12 lbs comfortably, it’s a great addition to any gear closet, especially at its price point.
Buy Online:
- REI Co-op Flash 22 – Official Website
Best Weekend and Overnight Packs (45–60L)
When your adventures stretch into one to three nights, your pack needs to do more than just carry lunch and a rain jacket. Weekend and overnight backpacks need to support additional weight for food, a shelter system, and extra clothing. Comfort, durability, and thoughtful organization become critical.
Here are three outstanding overnight packs that strike the right balance between support, features, and weight.
1. Gregory Paragon 58 / Maven 55 – Best Balanced Overnight Pack
- Capacity: 58L (Paragon), 55L (Maven)
- Weight: ~3.5 lbs (1.6 kg)
- Best For: Weekend trips, 2–3 night hikes, beginner backpackers
- Price: ~$280 USD
Why We Love It:
The Gregory Paragon (and women’s Maven) offer exceptional comfort and thoughtful design in a lighter-than-average frame pack. With a well-ventilated back panel, robust hipbelt padding, and an adjustable torso, the fit is customizable and dialed in.
The pack includes front U-zip access to the main compartment, a large mesh front pocket, ample hipbelt storage, and a bottom sleeping bag compartment with a removable divider. It even comes with a hydration sleeve that doubles as a removable daypack—perfect for summit pushes or side trails.
Real-World Feedback:
Backpackers praise this model for being “feature-rich without being bulky.” It’s well-suited for moderate loads (~30–40 lbs) and provides enough structure to stay comfortable over varied terrain.
Buy Online:
- Gregory Paragon 58 – Official Website
- Gregory Maven 55 – Official Website
2. Osprey Exos 58 / Eja 58 – Best Lightweight Overnight Pack
- Capacity: 58L
- Weight: ~2.8 lbs (1.3 kg)
- Best For: Lightweight backpacking, thru-hikes, minimalist trips
- Price: ~$280 USD
Why We Love It:
A favorite among thru-hikers, the Exos (and women’s Eja) series provides excellent support with minimal weight. It features a tensioned mesh backpanel for ventilation and a strong internal frame that comfortably handles loads up to ~35 lbs.
The latest version has an adjustable torso, hipbelt pockets, and a removable lid to trim weight. External gear loops and stretch pockets keep gear accessible and organized.
Real-World Feedback:
Many consider this the best “lightweight transition pack”—offering more comfort and features than ultralight frameless models without the bulk of traditional packs.
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3. Arc’teryx Aerios 45 – Best Weather-Resistant Ultralight Pack
- Capacity: 45L
- Weight: ~2.4 lbs (1.1 kg)
- Best For: Fastpacking, alpine weekends, wet-weather trips
- Price: ~$270 USD
Why We Love It:
The Aerios 45 is streamlined, water-resistant, and built for speed. With its vest-style harness and stretch chest pockets, it offers high mobility and fast access to essentials on the move.
Its rugged, weather-resistant fabric shrugs off rain and abrasion, and the roll-top closure with side zip access keeps gear dry and reachable. It fits best for those packing light (~25–30 lbs max).
Real-World Feedback:
Users appreciate its sleek profile, comfort during long days, and minimalist design. It’s not for hauling heavy loads, but ideal for fast-and-light weekends or high-output hiking in variable conditions.
Buy Online:
- Arc’teryx Aerios 45
Best Multi-Day and Expedition Packs (65–85L)
When your hike stretches into a week or includes winter gear, climbing tools, or bear canisters, you need a pack that can carry heavy loads comfortably and withstand tough conditions. These expedition-sized backpacks prioritize support, organization, and durability.
1. Osprey Atmos AG 65 / Aura AG 65 – Best All-Around Multi-Day Pack
- Capacity: 65L
- Weight: ~4.6 lbs (2.1 kg)
- Best For: Multi-day trips, 3–7 nights, 35–45 lbs loads
- Price: ~$340 USD
Why We Love It:
The Osprey Atmos and Aura AG are often hailed as the most comfortable backpacks on the market, thanks to their Anti-Gravity suspension system. This design uses a tensioned mesh backpanel that wraps across the back and hips, distributing weight evenly while offering unmatched ventilation.
With 8+ external pockets, a removable top lid, dual access to the main compartment, sleeping bag storage, and an optional rain cover, it’s built for efficiency and comfort. It’s a favorite for backpackers who want structure and features without tipping into expedition-level bulk.
Real-World Feedback:
Thousands of hikers swear by the Atmos AG for its comfort, especially when carrying over 35 lbs. It’s well-suited for backcountry treks, section hikes, or gear-heavy trips in mixed weather.
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2. Gregory Baltoro 75 / Deva 70 – Best Heavy Load Hauler
Capacity: 75L (Baltoro), 70L (Deva)
Weight: ~5.0 lbs (2.3 kg)
Best For: Long expeditions, winter hiking, loads 40–50 lbs+
Price: ~$360 USD
Why We Love It:
The Baltoro and Deva are known for plush comfort and excellent load support. They feature a pivoting hipbelt and harness system that adjusts to your movements, ideal for off-trail or steep terrain.
With nine exterior pockets, a U-zip front panel, separate sleeping bag compartment, and a hydration sleeve that doubles as a daypack, it’s perfect for gear-heavy expeditions. Rugged 210D and 420D fabrics with a rain cover keep your gear protected.
Real-World Feedback:
Praised for its durability and comfort under heavy loads, this pack is popular among serious trekkers and mountaineers who prioritize support over weight savings.
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3. Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest – Best Ultralight Waterproof Pack
- Capacity: 55L (main body + pockets)
- Weight: ~2.0 lbs (0.9 kg)
- Best For: Thru-hikes, wet weather, ultralight expeditions
- Price: ~$379 USD
Why We Love It:
Made from Dyneema Composite Fabric, this pack is incredibly strong, weather-resistant, and ultralight. The roll-top closure and solid external pockets protect your gear in wet conditions without needing a separate rain cover.
It has an internal frame with aluminum stays, load lifters, and adjustable hipbelt. Although minimalist in design, it excels in wet climates or for hikers with dialed-in ultralight setups.
Real-World Feedback:
Thru-hikers love its weight-to-durability ratio and built-in waterproofing. It’s not the most breathable or padded, but unbeatable for minimalist, long-distance treks.
Buy Online:
- Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest – Amazon
4. ULA Equipment Circuit – Most Customizable Lightweight Pack
- Capacity: ~68L (total with external pockets)
- Weight: ~2.5 lbs (1.1 kg)
- Best For: Long-distance backpacking, moderate loads
- Price: ~$280 USD
Why We Love It:
A fan-favorite on trails like the PCT and AT, the ULA Circuit balances lightweight construction with real-world durability. Its carbon and aluminum frame supports loads up to 35 lbs comfortably.
The huge mesh front pocket, dual side pockets, and robust hipbelt pockets provide excellent organization. It also offers multiple torso and hipbelt size options, making it ideal for a dialed-in fit.
Real-World Feedback:
Hikers call this the most versatile ultralight pack available. Durable, comfortable, and affordable—it hits a sweet spot for multi-day adventures under 40 lbs.
Buy Online:
- ULA Equipment Circuit – Amazon
With these expedition-ready packs, you can tackle backcountry routes, alpine missions, or extended treks with confidence. Now, let’s wrap up with our closing thoughts and recommendations.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Backpack for Your Adventures
The best hiking backpack isn’t about having the most features—it’s about finding the pack that matches your needs, body, and adventure style. Whether you’re climbing alpine ridges on a weekend escape or thru-hiking the PCT for months, the right backpack will carry not just your gear but your goals and grit.
Here’s a quick recap:
- For casual and short hikes, the Osprey Talon 22 offers all-day comfort and versatility, while the REI Flash 22 gives you ultralight efficiency at a great price.
- For 1–3 night backpacking trips, the Gregory Paragon 58 hits the sweet spot of features and weight, while the Arc’teryx Aerios 45 excels for fastpackers in changeable weather.
- For extended treks and heavy gear loads, the Osprey Atmos AG 65 and Gregory Baltoro 75 dominate in comfort, while ultralight adventurers will love the Hyperlite Southwest and ULA Circuit.
Before buying, try to test-fit your pack fully loaded, adjust the torso length and hipbelt, and ensure it aligns with your planned gear list. Consider your climate, hiking style, and body shape just as much as liters and pockets.
A great backpack makes the journey more enjoyable, the miles lighter, and the adventure more memorable. Choose the right one, and you’ll wonder how you ever hiked without it.
