10 Best Backpacking Backpacks In 2021

Strong, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, the Osprey Atmos AG 65 is the perfect choice for a multi-day backpacking adventure. Besides excellent capacity and smart organization, the backpack also features Anti-Gravity technology that guarantees a great fit and ideal weight distribution.

Construction and Design

Made from high-quality nylon and reinforced with a LightWire peripheral frame, the Osprey Atmos AG 65 provides impressive strength on your expeditions. Every element on this backpack is well-made and, if you encounter a problem, Osprey offers free repairs or replacement.

Storage Capacity and Organization

With a 65-liter capacity, the Atmos AG 65 allows you to bring everything you need for several days in the backcountry. Furthermore, the main compartment features a top-loader design that makes packing easier. In addition, the backpack also features a sleeping bag compartment (with a removable divider), stretch mesh side pockets, and InsideOut compression straps for reducing the bulk. 

Weight Distribution and Comfort

Osprey backpacks are well-known for the comfort they provide, and the Atmos AG 65 is an excellent example of this. The mentioned Anti-Gravity system ensures good load balancing, while the adjustable harness and Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt allow you to find the ideal backpack position.

Thanks to their unique back panel and strap design, the REI Co-op Flash 55 backpacks for backpacking are the best option for female backpackers. They offer a good amount of storage and impressive balance which is why they’re very popular for multi-day adventures. In addition, they also feature an integrated suspension system that makes your hikes even more comfortable.

Construction and Design

The shell of the REI Co-Op Flash 55 is made from ripstop nylon which is an exceptional material in terms of tear-resistance and water protection. The backpack comes with a built-in steel frame for additional support, as well as PackMod straps that allow you to compress it and make it easier for carrying.

Storage Capacity and Organization

As its name suggests, the Flash 55 backpacks come with a 55-liter capacity. The main compartment is spacious, easily accessible, and even allows you to insert a hydration bladder. In addition, the Flash pack is equipped with several PackMod pockets (in the hip belt and shoulder straps) that enable you to conveniently stash smaller items within hand’s reach.

Weight Distribution and Comfort

For optimal strength and stability, the REI Flash comes with a sturdy steel frame. However, the backpack is surprisingly lightweight and weighs slightly over 2.5 pounds. The bag also features a 3D contoured hip belt that transfers all the weight to the hips and allows you to carry up to 30 pounds without problems.

If you’re after a reliable backpack on a tighter budget, the TETON Sports Scout 3400 is the one for you. It’s incredibly adjustable and fits almost any adult backpacker (both male and female). Despite being the most affordable model in our backpacking backpacks reviews, the Scout 3400 provides quality and comfort that can easily match more expensive models.

Construction and Design

A combination of 600D diamond ripstop and 600D Oxford canvas fabric allows the Scout 3400 to handle harsh and frequent use really well. As a bonus, the pack also comes with an integrated rainfly that you can spread over the shell and protect the gear inside even if the rain is pouring.

Storage Capacity and Organization

The capacity of 55 liters (3400 cubic inches, hence the name) is great for scouting, lightweight backpacking, and weekend trips that last 2 to 4 days. Besides the main compartment, the bag features a multitude of pockets, a separate sleeping bag compartment, and bungee storage for securing bulkier items.

Weight Distribution and Comfort

Thanks to its top-level torso adjustability, the Scout 3400 fits men, women, and youth of all sizes. Furthermore, the bag has an aluminum frame inside for improved stability, as well as a padded waist belt to help with weight distribution.

The TETON Sports Explorer features a generous 65-liter capacity that is going to be handy if you’re planning a longer trip. Similarly to the previous model, it’s very budget-friendly and gives you excellent value for money. The backpack is stable, comfortable, and even provides water protection to your gear.

Construction and Design

The 600D ripstop canvas shell fabric is rugged enough to withstand pretty much anything from sharp branches and thorn bushes to heavy rain. The construction also includes an aluminum frame inside that has a dual purpose – it makes the bag more stable while simultaneously improving the weight distribution.

Storage Capacity and Organization

With a capacity of 65 liters (4000 cubic inches), this backpack fits gear for 2 to 5 days depending on what you want to bring. If you pack light and use the compression straps, you might even be able to use it for week-long trips. To help you do this, the Explorer 4000 has excellent organization and features a large number of pockets and compartments.

Weight Distribution and Comfort

Owing to the contoured frame and easily-adjustable chest and hip straps, carrying comfort won’t be an issue with the Explorer. The torso length adjusts between 19 and 23 inches and the backpack is an excellent fit for adults and youth who range from 5 feet 1 inch to 6 feet 4 inches in height. 

The thing that separates the AmazonBasics backpacking backpack from the rest is its simple but highly-functional design. It performs well in all types of weather, and is generally considered a top-rated backpacking backpack in terms of organized and convenient storage.

Construction and Design

The outer layer of the AmazonBasics backpack is made from high-quality polyester that makes it durable and provides good protection to your gear inside. In addition, the shell is also treated with a water repellent that will block light rain. However, if the rain starts to pour, you can always use the integrated waterproof cover that withstands even the harshest weather conditions.

Storage Capacity and Organization

Compared to all the other products we’ve featured, the AmazonBasics backpack has the highest storage capacity. With a base volume of 70 liters and a 5-liter extension, this backpack will work great for 5 to 7-day trips. As we’ve mentioned, the backpack comes with an impressive number of compartments and pockets for organizing gear.

Weight Distribution and Comfort

Like you would expect from a large backpacking backpack, it comes with a sturdy internal frame. It also features an adjustable chest strap for stability, as well as a padded hip strap that allows you to move the weight from your back to your legs.

One of the details we particularly like about the Osprey Aura AG 65 is its unique Anti-Gravity suspension system that gives you ideal weight distribution. Because of this, it ranks among the best backpacking backpacks for women who want a bit more comfort on the trail.

Construction and Design

Just like the previous Osprey model we’ve reviewed, the Aura AG 65 uses the recognizable high-denier nylon construction. The backpack is tough, water-resistant, and features an internal frame that makes it stable regardless if it’s full or not.

Storage Capacity and Organization

Owing to its 65-liter storage capacity, the Osprey Aura women’s backpack is incredibly versatile and can be used for both short and long expeditions. As a bonus, the exterior comes with a mesh front pocket as well as ice tool loops and Stow-on-the-Go attachments for trekking poles.

Weight Distribution and Comfort

Due to the unique anti-gravity suspension, the Aura AG 65 allows you to bear a heavy load on your back without ending up with a sore back. The backpack also features the Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt that is easily adjustable and shifts the weight to your hip bones.

Additional Features

The versatile design of the Deuter Aircontact allows it to work great on both shorter and longer trips. While the basic volume is 60 liters, the lid can easily be expanded to add 10 more liters for packing additional gear. The backpack is strong, durable, and very comfortable thanks to the unique 3D Air Mesh back panel.

Construction and Design

The contours of this backpack follow the female figure and provide an excellent fit. Owing to the Vari-Quick system, the Torso can easily be adjusted anywhere between 14 and 20 inches. In addition, the backpack uses a combination of nylon, polyester, and foam to bring you excellent performance with an accent on strength.

Storage Capacity and Organization

As we’ve explained at the beginning, the Deuter Aircontact Lite women’s backpack has a modular storage capacity. The main compartment has a default volume of 60 liters but the lid can also be used if you need extra storage. The backpack also features several inner and external pockets as well as full hydration bladder compatibility.

Weight Distribution and Comfort

One of the things that we really like about this backpack are its S-shaped shoulder straps that are easily adjustable and provide ergonomic comfort. In addition, the pack also a height and width-adjustable chest strap as well as a tough hip belt with Comfort Lock fins that are padded with thick foam.

With its 33-liter capacity, the Osprey Talon 33 is the most compact model on our list. It’s among the best backpacking packs for one-day or overnight trips, and offers much better functionality than most other lightweight backpacking backpacks.

Construction and Design

Made from high-quality nylon, the Osprey Talon 33 ultralight pack offers good shell strength while keeping the weight fairly low. In fact, at only 2 pounds, it’s one of the best ultralight models that you’ll come across. Keep in mind, however, that these top rated backpacking packs are the only packs on this list that come without a frame.

Storage Capacity and Organization

The capacity of 33 liters is perfect for shorter adventures. It has plenty of room to pack extra clothing, snacks, water, and other essentials without weighing you down on the road. In addition, the Talon uses a quick-access compartment design and comes with several well-placed pockets for easy gear organization.

Weight Distribution and Comfort

Even though it doesn’t have a frame, the Osprey Talon 33 offers everything that you would expect from a good backpacking backpack – padded back, adjustable shoulder and hip belts, and several compression straps. The hip belt transfers almost all of the weight to your hip bones so you can carry a full backpack with ease for many hours at a time.

If you want a rugged model that can handle tactical and survival use, the Mardingtop Molle is probably the best backpacking backpack to get. Made from tough 600D polyester, this backpack can handle pretty much any type of challenge outdoors. This tactical pack is built to last a lifetime and provide you with functionality that only a few other hiking backpacks can match.

Construction and Design

The rugged shell of the Mardingtop Molle makes it highly resistant to tears and abrasions. On top of this, the polyester fabric also provides protection in light rain. As a bonus, the backpack even comes with a rain cover that you can use in downpours. 

Storage Capacity and Organization

The capacity of the Mardingtop backpack is 65 liters –enough to haul gear for 3 to 7-day adventures (depending on how you pack). Organization and attachment options include a zippered main compartment, multiple pockets, MOLLE webbing, and a separate hydration compartment that fits a 5-liter bladder.

Weight Distribution and Comfort

The internal frame is tough and significantly improves backpack stability. The shoulder and waist straps complement it nicely and boost the pack weight distribution, while the padding in the lower back and hip areas improves the comfort. In addition, the backpack features compression straps that compress the load and adjust the balance.

The WASING trail backpacks are lightweight and breathable, which makes them an excellent choice for adventures in warmer weather. With a capacity of 55 liters, you can use it for multi-day expeditions. In addition, it features a contoured frame and a molded foam back with air flow channels so top-level comfort is guaranteed.

Construction and Design

Considering the price point, quality and durability are very impressive. The shell is made from a ripstop polyester fabric that is very rugged and highly water-resistant. The buckles are lightweight and sturdy, as are the seams and zippers. On top of this, the attached rainfly keeps gear dry in stronger rain.

Storage Capacity and Organization

If you belong to the group of weekend backpackers, the 55-liter load capacity that the Wasing backpack offers is going to be perfect. Besides the large main compartment, the bag also features a zippered divider, multiple external pockets, and gear loops on the sides. We really like that it also features a separate sleeve for a hydration bladder.

Weight Distribution and Comfort

Equipped with adjustable sternum and hip straps as well as an internal aluminum frame, this backpack adjusts well to any type of body. Both the shoulder straps and the hip belt come with additional padding and a great balance so the backpack won’t overburden you even when fully loaded.