10 Best Budget Backpacking Backpacks 2026 in the United States

The Kelty Asher Day Hiking Pack is a solid choice for budget-conscious backpackers who need a reliable and spacious pack for their adventures. With a generous capacity of 55 liters, it offers ample room for essentials, making it ideal for hiking, backpacking, and travel. Weighing just 3 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, which is a significant advantage for those who plan to hike for extended periods.

One of the standout features of the Asher is its Fit Pro technology, which allows for a customized torso fit, providing comfort during long hikes. Additionally, the ventilated back panel helps keep you cool, which is particularly important on warm days. With features like hydration compatibility and a sleeping bag compartment, it comes equipped with functions that meet the needs of serious hikers despite its entry-level pricing.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the weight is manageable, some users may find the 55-liter capacity may be too much for short day hikes, and it might feel bulky for those with a preference for minimalist gear. Durability is generally good, but with the budget-friendly price tag, some may worry about longevity in rugged conditions compared to higher-end models. Some users have expressed concerns about fit, especially for those at the extremes of the torso length range.

The Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack is a budget-friendly option tailored for backpacking and outdoor adventures. With a capacity of 50 liters (45+5), it's ample for 3-5 days of travel or outdoor activities, making it suitable for both men and women. The backpack is extremely lightweight at only 2.1 pounds, which is excellent for long hikes and camping trips where every ounce counts. The comprehensive upgrade to better materials, stronger straps, and durable zippers adds to its longevity and reliability, crucial for frequent use. Furthermore, the included rain cover ensures your belongings remain dry and protected from the elements, a valuable feature for unpredictable weather conditions.

In terms of fit and comfort, the backpack excels with breathable mesh shoulder straps and thickened S-type shoulder straps, coupled with high elastic breathable back support, offering significant relief from shoulder stress and enhancing ventilation. These features contribute to a more comfortable hiking experience. The organizational features are impressive, with a large main compartment, separate shoe separator, and six external pockets, allowing you to easily distribute and access your gear. Additionally, ample compression straps and attachment points enable you to carry extra equipment like sleeping bags, tents, or trekking poles.

However, it's important to note that the backpack lacks an internal frame, which might affect the support and structure, especially when carrying heavier loads over extended periods. While this design choice contributes to its lightweight nature, it might not provide the same level of stability as framed backpacks. In summary, the Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack is a great option for budget-conscious hikers and campers looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and well-organized pack, although the absence of an internal frame might be a drawback for those needing extra support.

The Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10 is a solid choice for backpackers needing a spacious and comfortable pack for longer trips. Its 65-liter base capacity, with an extra 10-liter expandable collar, offers plenty of room for gear, which is great for multi-day hikes. The backpack is designed to keep the load close to your body, thanks to its Aircontact back system and adjustable back length, which helps with balance and reduces strain. The waist belt and hip fins are adjustable and padded, contributing to better weight distribution and comfort, especially if you’re carrying heavier loads.

Weighing around 5 pounds, it’s a bit on the heavier side compared to ultralight backpacks, but this weight supports its durability and comfort features. The pack includes useful extras like numerous pockets, loops for attaching gear, trekking pole holders, and compatibility with hydration systems, making it versatile for trail use. The J-shaped front zipper also allows easy access to your belongings without unpacking everything.

One thing to note is that while it offers many features and durability, the weight and size might feel bulky for those wanting a minimalist or ultralight option. Also, at its price point, it may be a bit higher than typical budget backpacks, but the quality and comfort may justify that for serious hikers. This backpack suits hikers who prioritize comfort, capacity, and load control on extended trips, rather than those looking for the lightest or most compact pack for short excursions.