HIKING BACKPACKS
(2023 GUIDE)
Are you after a new hiking backpack? Look no further! With a huge selection of the best hiking backpacks for 2023, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for here! Check out the breakdown of brands below.
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BEST HIKING BACKPACKS
Check out the table below for a summary of the best hiking backpacks, based on editor rating. Criteria for the editor rating comprises style, comfort, durability, and value. Emerging trends in this year’s hiking backpacks include ergonomic carrying support, hydration compatibility, external gear attachment, and high visibility.
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5 Best Hiking Backpacks for 2023
| Rank | Name | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fjällräven Kajka 75 Backpack | Fjällräven's Kajka 75 Backpack has a stylish design, long-lasting materials, and plenty of storage space. The Kajka is notable for its sophisticated hiking design with a revolutionary hardwood frame for greater weight-carrying support. Also included is an exterior rain cover, a hip belt with compression straps, and separate storage for wet and dry gear. |
| 2 | The North Face Terra 65 Backpack | The rugged North Face Terra 65 Backpack is a well-built hiking bag that is designed to withstand the elements. Ample storage and a rain cover safeguard the Terra in damp situations. Additionally, the upgraded harness support system allows for a more precise fit between the backpack and the body, all while maintaining breathability. |
| 3 | Osprey Exos 48 Backpack | Osprey's Exos 48 is a medium hiking pack that falls between between big hiking packs and compact daypacks. An integrated hydration pack sleeve on the back panel, an aluminum load-bearing frame, and several exterior tie-off points round out the essential features. |
| 4 | Arc'teryx Alpha FL 45 Backpack | With this high-quality Arc'teryx backpack on your back, you can hike with confidence. The Alpha FL 45 Backpack is a roomy, long-lasting, and stylish option for those who want the best of both worlds. Among its many features, the FL 45 is waterproof and includes a bungee front connection mechanism for attaching additional gear. |
| 5 | JanSport Far Out 65 Backpack | The JanSport Far Out 65's top-loading design is ideal for heavy packers. This durable hiking pack from JanSport offers a large 65 L storage capacity and many fast stow external compartments. An additional feature is a cushioned waist belt that is attached to dual-density foam shoulder straps for increased comfort. |
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"Hike in confidence with this top-notch Arc'teryx pack on your back. The Alpha FL 45 Backpack is a spacious, durable, and lightweight pack with style to match. Importantly, the FL 45 is seam-sealed for water resistance and has a bungee front attachment system for extra gear."
Eye-Catching Outdoor Pack
From Arc’teryx Alpha FL 45 Backpack has a simple, structured design that is designed for efficient, lightweight outdoor use. While hiking the mountains, the streamlined profile reduces weight of the backpack and allows for more flexibility of movement.
The intuitive, simple and glove-friendly design allows for quick access storage. A top strap secures the rope, while a waterproof, weather-resistant fabric protects the cargo and resists damage.
Among the new features for this year are revised shoulder straps, an enlarged front pocket, and an additional interior pocket. The impressive Alpha FL 45 Backpack is an excellent storage option for all outdoor enthusiasts.
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"Step up the storage with the roomy Trailhead 65 Rucksack from Berghaus. Importantly, the Trailhead features padded back, shoulder, and sternum carrying support. Furthermore, the Trailhead 65 has a seperate wet/dry compartment for laundry."
Berghaus Trailhead 65 Hiking Backpack
Spacious Berghaus Rucksack
From Berghaus, the Trailhead 65 has a redesigned design that includes all of the excellent features we’ve come to expect, as well as some new ones. Notably, the adjustable back system includes extra padding for added comfort.
The adjustable back system includes extra padding for added comfort. When it comes to storage capacity, the 65-litre capacity provides plenty of space, and features multiple pockets and gear attachment points, so you have plenty of space for all your hiking necessities.
Having a separate laundry section to separate your clean items from your laundry will help you maintain your kit mud free and tidy. Overall, the Berghaus Trailhead 65 is a well-designed hiking backpack with adequate storage space for outdoor day trips.
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"The Speed Lite 20 Hiking Pack comprises the lightest, minimalist back system available from Deuter. For additional carrying comfort the Lite 20 Pack features a padded back panel that's lined with ventilating 3D-Air Mesh."
Lightweight Hiking Backpack
With the ultralight Deuter Speed Lite 20 Backpack, you’ll be on your way to the mountains in no time. The Speed Lite Backpack’s sporty V-line shaped shoulder straps provide tremendous flexibility for hikes and a variety of other sports pursuits.
Additional storage options include loops for attaching a climbing helmet and a dedicated compartment for valuables. Deuter’s Speed Lite is all about providing a high degree of comfort while also including innovative features without the use of excessive material.
The Speed Lite Backpack does not contain any dangerous PFC compounds. Instead, Deuter now uses DWR (Durable Water Repellency) technology. Importantly, DWR poses no threat to health or the environment.
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"The Kajka 75 Backpack from Fjällräven combines style with durability and spacious storage. Notably, the Kajka features an advanced trekking design with an innovative wooden frame for superior weight-carrying support. Additional features include separate wet and dry storage, quick stash pockets, supportive hip belt, compression straps, and an external rain cover."
Fjallraven Kajka 75 Backpack
Advanced Hiking Backpack
Durable, comfy, and functional, the Kajka 75 Backpack is an advanced hiking backpack with all the Fjällräven perks. Over the years, the Kajka 75 has been redesigned with enhanced features. A standout feature is the hardwood structure that is less environmentally damaging while retaining strength and performance.
The user-friendly Perfect Fit Modification System enables simple adjustment for various body types. Long trekking days are made easier with the wide hip belt. The main container is top-loaded and snow-locked. It also features a big vertical opening front and a smaller one at the base for quick access.
Importantly, the top lid, sides, and hip belt all have zippered pockets. For further security, the top cover may be detached and used as an accessory bag. The Fjällräven Kajka has been appreciated by hikers and the industry alike — winning notable product awards in Sweden and Finland.
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"Granite Gear's reliable Crown 2 boasts a spacious main compartment that's secured by a roll-top opening and dual external straps. For comfortable carrying support, the Crown 2 features load-lifter straps, a supportive sternum strap, and a dual density shoulder harness."
Practical Outdoor Pack
Introducing the Crown 2 Backpack, a lightweight and comfortable daypack from Granite Gear. Reinforcing channels and die-cut perforations in the Crown 2 Backpack help to reduce weight without compromising structural integrity.
With the help of the contoured back panel with breathable channels, the frame helps to ventilate moisture from the back — improving carrying comfort. Additionally, the Crown 2 Backpack has an adjustable, weight-supporting hip belt.
Finally, the Granite Gear Crown 2 Backpack includes a completely detachable zippered cover that is specially created for use with this pack. It delivers additional convenience and storage space.
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"The Gregory Baltoro 65 is a versatile outdoor pack that's suitable for hiking, camping, and backpacking. Key features include multiple spacious storage compartments, an aerated back panel, and ergonomically tapered shoulder harness straps for a barely there feel."
Reliable Hiking Backpack
From Gregory, the Baltoro 65 Backpack has enough space for a weekend away, and if you’re well-versed in the art of packing light, you’ll have enough space for an additional day or two.
The terrain-adaptive A3 suspension means the Baltoro 65 can be used in rugged conditions, and the hip belt and harnesses may be rotated independently of one another. An additional daypack that comes with the Baltoro 65 can also be used as a hydration sleeve on the inside.
Importantly, the bottom panel is made of two layers for increased durability. Lastly, a lightweight rain cover is provided with the Baltoro 65 Backpack. It can be easily accessed via a zippered pocket on the bottom of the top lid.
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"Heavy packers, the top-loading Far Out 65 is no obstacle. This supportive hiking pack from JanSport is an excellent option. It has a roomy 65 L of storage space and multiple quick stash exterior pockets. Additional features include a padded waist belt and dual-density foam shoulder straps."
Impressive JanSport Hiking Bag
Enjoy the spacious storage capacity of the JanSport Far Out 65 Backpack. With a range of useful features, including an inbuilt hydration system, you’ll be ready to tackle even the most gruelling hiking trips.
The main compartment opens from the top with a drawstring clasp and provides access to a sleeping bag compartment. Additionally, the top cover is completely detachable with a zippered pocket and compression straps.
For added safety, the adjustable sternum strap is fitted with a safety whistle. The exterior of the JanSport Far Out 65 features a heavy-duty recycled ripstop polyester and a water-repellent bottom panel. The fully cushioned air-mesh harness system and adjustable shoulder straps complete the list of impressive features.
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"Kelty's Coyote 65 Backpack is loaded with a range of convenient interior and exterior storage options. Dual zippered side pockets offer convenient quick stash storage and the main compartment opens wide for easy packing and unpacking. Lastly, the breathable back panel is designed to keep you cool and dry."
Versatile Hiking Backpack
Kelty’s Coyote 65 is a spacious, well-designed outdoor backpack that strikes a balance between comfort and load capacity. The new Fit-Pro carry system allows for a more precise and tailored torso fit, while an improved perimeter frame delivers better stability and support.
The rear panel is vented to ensure that you get your share of cool air, and the smart storage pockets keep everything orderly. Additional Coyote 65 features include a security sleeve on the top lid and a dedicated sleeping bag compartment.
Access to frequently used things is provided via a zipped pocket on the front of the Coyote 65. Lastly, for a quick size guide, the torso fit range for the Kelty Coyote 65 Backpack is between 15.5″ and 21″.
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"Marmot's versatile Graviton 34 is an excellent hiking backpack. Made of lightweight nylon ripstop material, the Graviton 34 features a spacious top-loading main compartment, breathable back panel, hip and sternum support, and a storm collar with compression straps."
Streamlined Marmot Backpack
The journey begins with the Marmot Graviton 34 Backpack. With this versatile hiking backpack you’ll be climbing mountains in no time. The wrap-around zipper with various sliders makes it easy to get to anything, including the spacious main compartment.
A trekking pole attachment point simplifies your trip, and fastening hooks with reflective tape keep you safe on your journey. Additional features include a vented suspension system, adjustable compression straps, and a cushioned waist belt with twin mesh utility pockets.
Overflow items can be stored in the zipped lip compartment, which also has a mesh pocket and a key clip. Overall, the Marmot Graviton 34 Backpack is a versatile outdoor backpack with simple usability.
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"Attack the trails in confidence with the Osprey Exos 48 Backpack. Key features include an internal back panel sleeve for hydration pack storage, peripheral aluminium frame for load carrying support, and multiple external tie-off points for additional gear attachment."
Supportive Hiking Backpack
The Exos 48 is a midsize hiking pack that bridges the gap between the larger hiking packs and the smaller daypacks. It’s perfect for weekend outdoor getaways and, depending on how you pack, may see you through much longer trips.
A combination of trail-friendly features such as stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment point and the ergonomic back harness provide advanced carrying support on the Exos 48 Backpack.
Furthermore, the breathable AirSpeed suspension system makes every backpacking journey as comfortable and pleasant as possible. With Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee, you can be sure that Osprey will repair or replace damage and defects.
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"Designed to handle all conditions, the durable North Face Terra 65 Backpack is a well-designed hiking pack. Lightweight and comfortable, the Terra has plenty of storage room as well as an integrated rain cover for protection in wet conditions."
The North Face Terra 65 Backpack
Sleek TNF Explorer
From The North Face, the streamlined Terra 65 Backpack has been redesigned with a user-friendly design that is thinner and lighter. The top-loading main compartment offers significant storage space and is secured by dual external buckles.
In addition to providing greater load management on the trails, the improved harness support system provides a custom fit between the backpack and body, all without compromising breathability.
Access to trail necessities is made easier with the help of a number of strategically positioned utility pockets. Designed for day-long outdoor comfort, the freshly updated Terra 65 is one of this year’s best hiking backpacks.
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"The practical AllTrail Hiking Backpack from Thule offers a comfortable 45 L of storage space. Importantly, the hydration compatible AllTrail features a dedicated hydration sleeve and dual side water bottle pockets. Furthermore, for protection in wet conditions, the AllTrail includes a removable, high-visibility rain cover."
Sturdy Thule Trail Backpack
Thule’s AllTrail 45 Backpack is a flexible, multipurpose pack that can be used for a variety of outdoor activities in all seasons. With the front shove-it pocket, you can quickly stow and access your belongings while on the move.
The drink tube exit port and dual water bottle pockets on each side of the dedicated hydration reservoir will help you stay hydrated. Additionally, trekking poles can be conveniently stored on the hip belt without having to remove the pack by using the dedicated attachment point.
With a breathable back panel and shoulder straps, the Thule AllTrail 45 Backpack goes a long way to keep you cool on the trail. Additionally the detachable rain cover offers protection for your stored gear in wet conditions.
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