Top 10 Best Hiking Backpack of 2023 | Review and Buying Guide

A hiking backpack is an essential piece of gear for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re embarking on a day hike or a multi-day trek, having the right backpack can make a significant difference in your comfort and overall hiking experience. In this article, we will review the top 10 best hiking backpacks of 2023, considering factors such as size, comfort, durability, organizational features, and more. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the perfect backpack for your hiking adventures.

Importance of Hiking Backpack

A hiking backpack’s importance cannot be overstated, as it serves several crucial functions that enhance comfort, safety, and overall hiking experience. Here are some reasons why a hiking backpack is important:

• Gear Storage: Hiking backpacks are specifically designed with ample storage space and compartments to accommodate all the necessary gear and equipment you’ll need on a hiking trip.
  
• Weight Distribution: A well-designed hiking backpack evenly distributes the weight of your gear across your shoulders, back, and hips.
  
• Comfort and Ergonomics: Hiking backpacks are built with adjustable straps, padded shoulder harnesses, and hip belts to provide a customized and ergonomic fit.
  
• Organization and Accessibility: Hiking backpacks usually have multiple compartments, pockets, and attachment points, allowing you to organize your gear efficiently. Just you need to know how to pack a hiking backpack properly.
  
• Durability and Weather Resistance: Hiking backpacks are constructed from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities.
  
• Versatility: A good hiking backpack is suitable for day hikes as well as overnight or multi-day trips.
  
• Safety and Emergency Preparedness: Hiking backpacks allow you to carry essential safety items such as a first aid kit, emergency shelter, navigation tools, and communication devices.
  
• Balance and Stability: The design of a hiking backpack helps to maintain your balance and stability while navigating various terrains.
  

How to Choose Hiking Backpack

Choosing the right hiking backpack is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a hiking backpack:

• Capacity: Determine the capacity you need based on the length and type of your hikes. Daypacks typically range from 20 to 35 liters and are suitable for day hikes, while multi-day backpacking trips may require larger packs with capacities of 40 liters or more.
  
• Fit and Comfort: Look for a backpack that fits your body well. Consider the length of your torso and choose a backpack with adjustable shoulder straps and a hip belt to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Try the backpack on with some weight in it to assess how it feels on your back.
  
• Load Distribution: Opt for a backpack with a well-designed suspension system that effectively distributes the weight of your gear across your back, shoulders, and hips. Look for padded shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, and a supportive hip belt to minimize discomfort and strain.
  
• Accessibility and Organization: Consider how easily you can access your gear while on the trail. Look for backpacks with multiple compartments, pockets, and external attachment points that allow you to organize your gear efficiently and provide easy access to frequently used items.
  
• Durability: Choose a backpack made from durable materials that can withstand the demands of hiking. Look for sturdy fabrics, reinforced stitching, and reliable zippers. Water-resistant or waterproof materials are also desirable to protect your gear from the elements.
  
• Weight: Consider the weight of the backpack itself. Lightweight backpacks are ideal for minimizing the overall weight you carry, but ensure they still offer the necessary features and durability for your hiking needs.
  
• Ventilation: Look for backpacks with good ventilation features, such as mesh back panels or airflow channels, to help keep your back cool and reduce sweating during hikes.
  
• Additional Features: Consider any additional features that may be important to you. This could include hydration compatibility, rain covers, trekking pole attachments, compression straps, or external pockets for quick access to items like water bottles.
  
• Brand and Reviews: Research reputable outdoor gear brands and read reviews from other hikers to get an idea of the backpack’s performance, durability, and customer satisfaction.
  
• Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, visit a store and try on different backpacks to assess their fit and comfort. Load them up with some weight to simulate a real hiking experience.

Remember that choosing a hiking backpack is a personal decision, and what works for one person may not work for another. Consider your specific needs, preferences, and the type of hiking you’ll be doing to find the backpack that best suits you.

Review of Top 10 Best Hiking Backpacks

1. Osprey Atmos 65 AG

• Anti-Gravity Suspension
• Adjustable Fit
• 1,449 Ratings (4.9 Stars)

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Key features of the Osprey Atmos 65 AG include:

The Osprey Atmos 65 AG is a popular hiking backpack known for its comfort, ventilation, and advanced suspension system. Here are some key features and benefits of the Osprey Atmos 65 AG:

• Anti-Gravity Suspension: The AG (Anti-Gravity) suspension system is a standout feature of the Osprey Atmos 65 AG. It incorporates a suspended mesh back panel that contours to your body, providing exceptional comfort and ventilation. The system distributes the weight of the pack evenly, reducing pressure points and allowing for a more balanced and enjoyable hiking experience.
  
• Adjustable Fit: The Atmos 65 AG offers an adjustable fit to accommodate different torso lengths. It comes in multiple sizes, allowing you to choose the one that best matches your measurements for a customized and comfortable fit.
  
• Spacious Capacity: With a 65-liter capacity, the Atmos 65 AG is suitable for multi-day backpacking trips or hikers who require extra storage space. It provides ample room to carry clothing, gear, and supplies for extended adventures in the outdoors.
  
• Organization and Accessibility: The backpack features multiple pockets, compartments, and attachment points for efficient organization and easy access to your gear. It includes a large main compartment, a separate sleeping bag compartment, zippered hip belt pockets, and stretch mesh side pockets for water bottles or other essentials.
  
• Durability: Osprey is known for its high-quality construction, and the Atmos 65 AG is no exception. It is made from durable materials that can withstand rugged outdoor conditions, ensuring the longevity of the pack even with regular use.
  
• Hydration Compatibility: The backpack is hydration reservoir compatible, with a dedicated hydration sleeve and an external hydration port. This allows you to conveniently carry and access water during your hikes without having to stop and reach for water bottles.
  
• Integrated Rain Cover: The Atmos 65 AG comes with an integrated rain cover that provides protection against wet weather conditions. The rain cover can be easily deployed and stowed away in a dedicated pocket when not in use.
  
• Additional Features: The backpack includes other useful features such as trekking pole attachments, compression straps to stabilize the load, and a removable floating top lid that can be converted into a daypack for shorter excursions from your base camp.

2. Osprey Exos 58 / Eja 58

• Ultralight Design
• Ventilated Suspension System
• 41 Ratings (4.1 Stars)

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Key features of the Osprey Exos 58 / Eja 58 include:

The Osprey Exos 58 (for men) and Eja 58 (for women) are popular hiking backpacks known for their lightweight design, ventilation, spacious capacity, durability, and comfort. Here are some key features, pros, cons, and reasons why customers love these backpacks:

• Ultralight Design: The Exos 58/Eja 58 are constructed with lightweight materials, making them ideal for weight-conscious hikers and thru-hikers.
  
• Ventilated Suspension System: The AirSpeed suspension system provides excellent ventilation, keeping the hiker’s back cool and minimizing sweating during long hikes.
  
• Spacious Capacity: With a 58-liter capacity, these backpacks offer ample storage space for multi-day backpacking trips, allowing you to carry necessary gear and supplies.
  
• Efficient Organization: Multiple pockets, compartments, and attachment points ensure efficient organization and easy access to gear and essentials.
  
• Comfortable Fit: Adjustable shoulder straps, hip belts, and harnesses provide a comfortable and customizable fit for different body shapes and sizes.
  
• Durability: The Exos 58/Eja 58 are built with durable materials to withstand the rigors of long-distance hiking and challenging terrains.

3. Gregory Baltoro 75

• Spacious Capacity
• Comfortable Suspension System
• 146 Ratings (4.7 Stars)

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Key features of Gregory Baltoro 75 include:

The Gregory Baltoro 75 is a popular hiking backpack known for its spacious capacity, comfort, organization features, and durability. Here are some key features and benefits of the Gregory Baltoro 75:

• Spacious Capacity: With a 75-liter capacity, the Baltoro 75 provides ample storage space for extended backpacking trips or hikers who require extra gear and supplies.
  
• Comfortable Suspension System: The Baltoro 75 features a comfortable suspension system with adjustable shoulder straps, hip belt, and lumbar support. This allows for a personalized and comfortable fit, reducing strain and fatigue during long hikes.
  
• Organizational Versatility: The backpack offers various pockets, compartments, and attachment points for efficient organization of gear. It includes a front U-zip panel, top lid pockets, side pockets, and a sleeping bag compartment, allowing for easy access and separation of different items.
  
• Load Stabilization: The Baltoro 75 incorporates a robust load stabilization system, including a frame and suspension design, to distribute weight evenly and maintain balance while hiking. This helps to minimize discomfort and maintain stability on uneven terrain.
  
• Durability and Weather Resistance: The backpack is constructed from durable materials, designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. It is also equipped with weather-resistant features such as water-resistant fabrics and a built-in rain cover to protect your gear from rain or wet conditions.
  
• Customizable Fit: The Baltoro 75 offers adjustable components, including the shoulder harness, hip belt, and torso length, allowing hikers to achieve a comfortable and personalized fit.
  
• Integrated Features: The backpack includes additional features such as hydration compatibility, trekking pole attachments, and external gear attachment points, adding convenience and versatility to your hiking experience.

Also Read:

• Top 10 Best Hiking Boots

• Top 10 Best Hiking Poles
  

4. Osprey Renn 65 Women’s Backpack

• Women-Specific Design
• Spacious Capacity
• 596 Ratings (4.8 Stars)

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The Osprey Renn 65 Women’s Backpack is a popular choice among female backpackers for its comfort, versatility, and practical features. Here are the key points regarding the Osprey Renn 65:

• Women-Specific Design: The Osprey Renn 65 is specifically designed to fit the female anatomy, offering a comfortable and customized fit for women.
  
• Spacious Capacity: With a 65-liter capacity, the backpack provides ample room for multi-day backpacking trips, allowing you to carry gear, clothing, and supplies.
  
• Lightweight and Durable: The backpack is made from lightweight yet durable materials, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures without adding unnecessary weight.
  
• Comfortable Suspension System: The adjustable suspension system, including the shoulder straps and hip belt, provides a comfortable fit and helps distribute the weight evenly, reducing strain and fatigue during long hikes.
  
• Organizational Features: The backpack offers multiple pockets, compartments, and attachment points for efficient organization and easy access to gear and essentials. It includes a large main compartment, side pockets, and a separate sleeping bag compartment.
  
• Integrated Rain Cover: The Osprey Renn 65 comes with an integrated rain cover to protect your gear from wet weather conditions.
  
• Ventilation: The back panel is designed with mesh and foam padding to enhance airflow, keeping your back cool and reducing sweat accumulation.
  
• Adjustability: The backpack provides adjustable shoulder straps and a customizable hip belt, allowing you to achieve a secure and comfortable fit based on your body shape and size.

5. Deuter Speed Lite 20

• Lightweight Design
• Comfortable Fit
•  336 Ratings (4.7 Stars)

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Key features of the Deuter Speed Lite 20 include:

The Deuter Speed Lite 20 Hiking Backpack is a popular choice among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts for its lightweight design, versatility, and functionality. Here are some key points about the Deuter Speed Lite 20:

• Lightweight Design: The Speed Lite 20 is known for its ultralight construction, making it ideal for fast and lightweight day hikes or outdoor activities.
  
• Comfortable Fit: The backpack features a compact and ergonomic design that provides a snug and comfortable fit, allowing for freedom of movement during active pursuits.
  
• Versatile Use: The Speed Lite 20 is suitable for various outdoor activities, including day hiking, trail running, and climbing, thanks to its minimalistic yet functional design.
  
• Efficient Organization: Despite its compact size, the backpack offers efficient organization with multiple pockets, including a large main compartment, front stash pocket, and side mesh pockets for easy access to essentials.
  
• Ventilation and Breathability: The back panel of the Speed Lite 20 is designed with breathable padding and mesh, providing airflow and ventilation to keep your back cool and minimize sweating.
  
• Durable Construction: Deuter is known for its high-quality construction, and the Speed Lite 20 is built to withstand rugged outdoor conditions, ensuring its longevity.
  
• Hydration System Compatibility: The backpack is compatible with hydration reservoirs, allowing you to stay hydrated on the go by conveniently accessing water without stopping.

6. Kobuk Leather Backpack

• Premium Leather Construction
• Spacious Capacity
• Organizational Pockets

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Key features of the Kobuk Leather Backpack in Midnight Black include:

The Kobuk Leather Backpack in Midnight Black is a stylish and functional backpack known for its premium leather construction and sleek design. Here are some key features of the Kobuk Leather Backpack:

• Premium Leather Construction: The Kobuk Leather Backpack is crafted from high-quality leather, known for its durability and timeless appeal. The leather material provides a stylish and sophisticated look.
  
• Spacious Capacity: This backpack offers a spacious interior compartment that can accommodate your everyday essentials such as a laptop, books, notebooks, and other belongings.
  
• Organizational Pockets: The Kobuk Leather Backpack typically includes multiple pockets, both internal and external, to help you stay organized. These pockets allow for convenient storage and easy access to smaller items like keys, phones, and wallets.
  
• Comfortable Straps and Back Panel: The backpack is designed with padded shoulder straps and a cushioned back panel for added comfort during extended periods of wear. This feature helps to reduce strain and discomfort while carrying the backpack.
  
• Versatile Style: The Midnight Black color adds a touch of elegance and versatility to the backpack, making it suitable for various occasions, whether it’s for work, school, travel, or daily use.
  
• Durability: Leather is known for its durability, and the Kobuk Leather Backpack is designed to withstand daily wear and tear, ensuring that it remains in good condition for a long time with proper care.

7. WANDRD PRVKE 31L Photography Backpack

• Photography-Focused Design
• Modular Carry Options
• 61 Ratings (4.4 Stars)

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Key features of the WANDRD PRVKE 31L Photography Travel Backpack include:

The WANDRD PRVKE 31L Photography Travel Backpack is a popular choice among photographers and travelers for its versatile design, functional features, and durability. Here are some key points about the WANDRD PRVKE 31L:

• Photography-Focused Design: The PRVKE 31L is specifically designed to cater to the needs of photographers, with features like dedicated camera compartments, customizable dividers, and quick side camera access.
  
• Spacious Capacity: With a 31-liter capacity, this backpack offers ample room to carry camera gear, lenses, accessories, and personal belongings for travel or everyday use.
  
• Modular Carry Options: The backpack provides multiple carry options, including top and side handles, shoulder straps, and a waist belt, allowing for versatile and comfortable carry.
  
• Weather-Resistant Materials: The PRVKE 31L is made from durable and weather-resistant materials, ensuring protection for your gear in various weather conditions.
  
• Organizational Features: It offers multiple pockets, compartments, and dedicated sleeves for organization, including a laptop/tablet sleeve and pockets for small items like memory cards, batteries, and cables.
  
• Expandability and Compression: The backpack has expandable and compressible features, allowing you to adjust the volume based on your needs and secure the contents for a streamlined carry.
  
• Comfortable and Ergonomic Design: The PRVKE 31L features padded shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, and an adjustable sternum strap for comfortable and ergonomic wear, even during long hours of use.

8. Kelty Coyote 60-105 Liter Backpack

• Adjustable Capacity
• Hydration Compatibility
• 938 Ratings (4.7 Stars)

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Key features of the Kelty Coyote 60-105 Liter Backpack include:

The Kelty Coyote 60-105 Liter Backpack is a versatile and durable backpack designed for multi-day backpacking and camping trips. Here are some key points about the Kelty Coyote backpack:

• Adjustable Capacity: The Coyote backpack offers an adjustable capacity range from 60 to 105 liters, allowing you to customize the size based on your trip duration and gear requirements.
  
• Comfortable Suspension System: The backpack features a comfortable suspension system with padded shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, and an adjustable hip belt for optimal weight distribution and support during long hikes.
  
• Organizational Features: It includes multiple pockets, compartments, and attachment points for efficient organization of gear. It features a large main compartment, zippered side pockets, a front pocket, and a top lid with a zippered pocket.
  
• Hydration Compatibility: The backpack is hydration system compatible, allowing you to easily access water on the go by integrating a hydration reservoir.
  
• Durable Construction: The Kelty Coyote backpack is built with durable materials, including a sturdy frame, reinforced seams, and rugged zippers, ensuring its ability to withstand challenging outdoor conditions.
  
• Versatility: With its adjustable capacity and versatile features, the Coyote backpack is suitable for various outdoor activities, including backpacking, camping, and hiking.

9. Vitchelo Waterproof Hiking Backpack

• Waterproof Construction
• Insulated Warmth
• 143 Ratings (4.6 Stars)

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Key features of Vitchelo Waterproof Hiking Backpack include:

The Vitchelo Waterproof Backpack Dry Bag is a versatile and durable backpack designed to keep your belongings dry and protected in wet conditions. Here are some key points about the Vitchelo Waterproof Backpack Dry Bag:

• Waterproof Design: The backpack is made from high-quality waterproof materials and features a roll-top closure to keep your gear dry in various water-based activities.
  
• Spacious Capacity: With a 30-liter capacity, the backpack provides ample storage space for your belongings, making it suitable for travel, swimming, boating, kayaking, hiking, camping, and beach activities.
  
• Floats on Water: The waterproof backpack is designed to float on water, ensuring your gear stays safe even if it accidentally falls into water.
  
• Included Phone Case: The backpack comes with a waterproof phone case that allows you to protect your phone while still being able to use its functions and touch screen.
  
• Lightweight and Comfortable: The backpack is lightweight, making it comfortable to carry for extended periods. The adjustable shoulder straps provide a customizable and ergonomic fit.
  
• Versatile Use: The Vitchelo Waterproof Backpack Dry Bag is designed for a variety of outdoor activities, including travel, water sports, hiking, camping, and beach trips.

10. WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Hiking Backpack

• Compact and Lightweight
• Sling Design
• 33,989 Ratings (4.6 Stars)

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Key features of WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Hiking Backpack include:

The WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Hiking Backpack is a popular choice among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts for its compact and lightweight design, versatility, and convenience. Here are some key points about the WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Hiking Backpack:

• Compact and Lightweight: The WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Hiking Backpack is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it suitable for day hikes, walks, and other outdoor activities where you want to keep your belongings close and easily accessible.
  
• Sling Design: It features a sling-style design with a single shoulder strap that allows for easy and quick access to your gear without the need to remove the backpack entirely. This design provides convenience and freedom of movement.
  
• Multiple Pockets and Compartments: The backpack offers various pockets and compartments to help you stay organized and keep your essentials easily accessible. These pockets can accommodate items such as a water bottle, snacks, phone, wallet, keys, and small gear.
  
• Water-Resistant Material: The backpack is made from water-resistant materials, providing protection for your belongings in light rain or splashes. However, it is not fully waterproof and may not withstand heavy rain or prolonged exposure to water.
  
• Adjustable and Breathable Strap: The shoulder strap is adjustable, allowing you to customize the fit to your preference. The strap is also designed to be breathable, reducing sweat and discomfort during hot weather or physical activities.
  
• Versatile Use: The WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Hiking Backpack is not only suitable for hiking but can also be used for travel, daily commutes, or as a casual everyday bag.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best hiking backpack is a personal decision that depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the size, comfort, durability, organizational features, weight, and price when making your decision.

After thoroughly analyzing the best hiking backpacks of 2023, it is evident that the market offers a wide range of options to suit diverse needs and preferences. Always prioritize factors such as fit, comfort, durability, capacity, and functionality when making your selection. By considering these factors and understanding the individual characteristics of each backpack model, you can confidently choose the perfect hiking backpack for your upcoming adventures.

Some Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking Backpack

Q: What size backpack do I need for a multi-day hike?

A: The size of your backpack will depend on the length of your hike and the amount of gear you need to carry. Generally, backpacks with a capacity of 50 to 70 liters are suitable for multi-day hikes.

Q: Are hiking backpacks waterproof?

A: While some hiking backpacks are constructed from water-resistant materials, few are fully waterproof. Many backpacks, however, come with integrated rain covers or additional waterproofing options to protect your gear during rainy conditions.

Q: How do I measure my torso length for proper fit?

A: To measure your torso length, start at the base of your neck and measure down to the top of your hip bones. This measurement will help you determine the appropriate backpack size for your body.

Q: Can hiking backpacks be used for other activities, such as travel or camping?

A: While hiking backpacks are specifically designed for hiking, they can certainly be used for other outdoor activities such as camping or travel. However, it’s important to consider the specific features and organizational options needed for these activities.

Q: How long should a hiking backpack last with proper care?

A: With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality hiking backpack can last for several years. However, the lifespan of a backpack may vary depending on the frequency of use, intensity of hikes, and the overall quality of the backpack.