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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
9.8
Chosen by1,479
Capacity
Fit and Size
Access and Compartments

Most important from
5297 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
9.8
Chosen by1,479
Capacity
Fit and Size
Access and Compartments

Most important from
5297 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.
#2

Esup 50L Hiking Backpack Men Camping Backpack with rain cover 45l+5l Lightweight Backpacking Backpack Travel Backpack (Black New)

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Fit and Size
Weight

Most important from
1645 reviews

Capacity
Fit an extra sweatshirt, a day's worth of food, 64oz of water, and a small first aid kit perfectly.
Fit and Size
Stayed comfortable during a 7-hour hike, even at 12,000 feet.
Weight
Everything about this pack is well made; it is light and comfortable.
Material and Durability
Loaded it with about 35 pounds, and it felt strong and secure.
Features
The included rain cover is a great feature, keeping items dry even in heavy rain.

The Esup 50L Hiking Backpack is suitable for backpacking and camping trips lasting 2-4 days. Its capacity of 45 liters plus an additional 5 liters is ample for carrying essentials. The adjustable straps make it versatile for different body sizes and allow you to secure extra gear like sleeping bags or hammocks. The backpack is lightweight at 2.6 pounds, which is beneficial for long hikes.

Constructed from high-quality tear-resistant polyester and nylon fabric, it is durable and includes a rain cover to protect your belongings from water. The breathable mesh shoulder straps and padded back support provide comfort, which is essential for extended wear. The multiple compartments, including a sleeping bag compartment, two front pockets, and mesh side pockets, offer organized storage for easy access to your gear.

This backpack is a practical choice for adults planning short to medium backpacking trips and needing a durable, spacious, and comfortable pack.

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Fit and Size
Weight

Most important from
1645 reviews

Capacity
Fit an extra sweatshirt, a day's worth of food, 64oz of water, and a small first aid kit perfectly.
Fit and Size
Stayed comfortable during a 7-hour hike, even at 12,000 feet.
Weight
Everything about this pack is well made; it is light and comfortable.
Material and Durability
Loaded it with about 35 pounds, and it felt strong and secure.
Features
The included rain cover is a great feature, keeping items dry even in heavy rain.
#3

IGOLUMON Lightweight Foldable Daypack 40L - Waterproof Packable Backpack for Men & Women - Perfect for Hiking, Camping, Climbing & Trekking, Red

Rating
9.5
Capacity
Fit and Size
Weight

Most important from
553 reviews

Capacity
The main compartment offers lots of good room, with additional tech and outer pockets for organization.
Fit and Size
The padded adjustable straps make it comfortable to carry, even for those who are shorter.
Weight
This travel backpack is lightweight and compresses to a small footprint, making it perfect for travel.
Access and Compartments
The main compartment offers lots of good room, with additional tech and outer pockets for organization.
Material and Durability
Quality seems top-notch, with plenty of room in the center for bulky items.
Features
The double water bottle pockets and bottom straps add to its practicality.

The IGOLUMON Lightweight Hiking Backpack is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a solid 40 liters of capacity which is ideal for day hikes and short camping trips. Its multi-compartment layout allows for easy organization of gear with several pockets including a waterproof wet pocket, perfect for keeping sweaty clothes separate. Weighing only 1 pound, it’s remarkably lightweight and folds up into its own pocket, making it great for those who appreciate portability.

Comfort is addressed through breathable mesh shoulder straps padded to relieve pressure, and a chest buckle that doubles as a whistle, adding a layer of safety. The reflective signs are a nice touch for visibility during nighttime adventures. Additionally, the adjustable straps on the sides and bottom can accommodate trekking poles and other gear, enhancing its practicality.

On the durability front, the backpack is made from tear-resistant and waterproof nylon, with reinforced stress points. This should hold up well against the rigors of outdoor use, ensuring it lasts through various conditions. While it boasts many features, some users may find the 40 liters a bit limiting for longer excursions or for carrying bulky items. The focus on being lightweight might compromise some sturdiness when fully packed. Also, the backpack's design is quite basic, so it may not appeal to those looking for a more stylish option. This backpack is a good fit for casual hikers and campers looking for a lightweight, functional, and budget-friendly daypack, but it may not meet the needs of those requiring more capacity or high-end features.

Rating
9.5
Capacity
Fit and Size
Weight

Most important from
553 reviews

Capacity
The main compartment offers lots of good room, with additional tech and outer pockets for organization.
Fit and Size
The padded adjustable straps make it comfortable to carry, even for those who are shorter.
Weight
This travel backpack is lightweight and compresses to a small footprint, making it perfect for travel.
Access and Compartments
The main compartment offers lots of good room, with additional tech and outer pockets for organization.
Material and Durability
Quality seems top-notch, with plenty of room in the center for bulky items.
Features
The double water bottle pockets and bottom straps add to its practicality.

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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