Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a long distance hiker, having the right gear to meet your needs in the backcountry is essential. Now days, ultralight backpacking is the hot new thing, which makes sense, if the number one goal of the trip is to travel quick and light weight. But.. not everyone is an ultralight hiker. Some people may fall into the “I’d rather have it and not need it” category. Which is totally fine! We all have our own ways we like to do stuff so to each their own. With that being said, if you are newer to the outdoor world, it can be overwhelming hearing a lot of bias opinions on how you should do things as well as the best gear you should invest in.
Here at The Epic Reviews, my goal is to provide unbiased opinions on a wide range of gear options, as well as details on some of the best features these products provide. In this review, we’re going to talk about some of the most popular backpacking backpacks on the trails these days, compare some features and prices, and let you decide what will be the best backpacking backpack for you. Let’s dive in!
For more of our top backpacking gear reviews, check out:
- Top 5 Backpacking Tents of 2020
- 10 Best Sleeping Pads of 2020
- 10 Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2020
- Best Backpacking Stoves of 2020
- Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2020
QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST BACKPACKING BACKPACKS
- Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest
- Osprey Atmos 65L & Aura 65L AG
- Gossamer Gear Gorilla 40
- Deuter Futura Vario 50+10
- REI Co-Op Flash 55
- Gregory Optic 48L & Octal 45L
- Osprey Exos 48L & Eja 48
- ULA Circuit
- Granite Gear Crown2
- ZPacks Arc Blast
THE BEST BACKPACKING BACKPACKS:
COMPARISON TABLE
| Picture | Name | Volume | Weight | Raincover | Hydration Compatibility | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Hyperlite Mtn Gear 3400 Southwest | 55L (Medium) | 2 lbs | No | Yes | $$$$ | |
 |
Osprey Atmos & Aura | 65L (Medium) | 4lbs 6oz | No | Yes | $$$ | |
 |
Gossamer Gear Gorilla | 40L (Small) | 1lbs 14oz | No | Yes | $$ | |
 |
Deuter Futura Vario 50+10 | 60L (Medium) | 4lbs 9oz | Yes | Yes | $$ | |
 |
REI Co-op Flash 55 | 55L (Medium) | 2lbs 11oz | No | Yes | $ | |
  |
Gregory Optic & Octal | 48L & 45L (Medium) | 2lbs 8oz | Yes | Yes | $ | |
  |
Osprey Exos & Eja | 48L (Medium) | 2lbs 10oz | No | Yes | $$ | |
 |
ULA Circuit | 68L (Large) | 2lbs 9oz | No | Yes | $$ | |
  |
Granite Gear Crown2 | 60L (Medium) | 2lbs 6.7oz | No | Yes | $ | |
 |
ZPacks Arc Blast | 55L (Medium) | 1lbs 5oz | No | Yes | $$$$ | |
| Picture | Name | Volume | Weight | Raincover | Hydration Compatibility | Price |
REVIEWS – BEST BACKPACKING BACKPACKS
HYPERLITE MOUNTAIN GEAR 3400 SOUTHWEST
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 2 lbs
- VOLUME: 55L (Medium)
- MAX WEIGHT: 40 lbs
- RAINCOVER: No
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- Made From Waterproof Fabric
- Roll-Top Closure
- Adjustable Sternum Strap
- Proprietary Seam Sealing
BEST FOR: LIGHTWEIGHT EXPEDITIONS
Made in Maine, Hyperlite Mountain Gear continues to push the envelope in ultralight gear. The 3400 Southwest is no exception. It’s made from waterproof fabric, thus negating the need for a rain cover. At 2 pounds, this pack is the complete package.
Everything about this pack is designed to get you to camp everyday high and dry. The roll-top closure is complete with compression straps to cinch the pack down vertically to complement the side compression straps. The adjustable sternum strap is made with self-tensioning elastic to move with you. Three external pockets are also created using the waterproof fabric. Used in conjunction with the brand’s waterproof stuff sacks, you will remain organized and your gear will stay dry for the entire trip. While the Southwest comes at a higher price than many other packs on this list, it will last for many years and thousands of trail miles if treated with care, making it one of the best backpacking backpacks out there today.
OSPREY ATMOS & AURA
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 4 lbs 6 oz
- VOLUME: 65L (Medium)
- MAX WEIGHT: 50 lbs
- RAINCOVER: No
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- Heavy Load Capacity
- Adjustable Torso
- Separate Sleeping Bag Compartment
- Anti-Gravity Suspension
BEST FOR: HEAVY LOAD CARRIES
So you’re not an ultralight hiker. Cool. No problem. Everyone has their own style of hiking and their is a backpack that meet the needs of just about any style. If you see yourself carrying heavier loads, then the Atmos or Aura (women’s size) is the way to go. With their Anti-Gravity suspension through the shoulder straps and the back panel, as well as the beast of a hip belt, you’ll be able to carry heavier loads over a longer period of time and still maintain comfort. The shoulder straps and hip best adjust nicely to meet wider ranges of comfort due to personal size or layering of clothing. I hauled this bad boy through the entire PCT, and while ultralight hikers may have thought it was over-kill, this pack treated me just fine!
VIEW AT AMAZON
GOSSAMER GEAR GORILLA
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 1 lb 14 oz
- VOLUME: 40L (Medium)
- MAX WEIGHT: 30 lbs
- RAINCOVER: No
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- Ultralight
- Convenient SitLight Pad
- Removable Hip Belt
- Frameless Option
BEST FOR: COMFORTABLE ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING PACK
The Gossamer Gear Gorilla 40 has been among the one of the favorite packs for a long time because it’s well-designed, durable, and comfortable. The Gorilla has a unisex ergonomic hip belt that carries weight well on the trail, but the belt can also be removed for truly ultralight adventures. One of my favorite features of the Gorilla is its removable SitLight pad (this upgraded pad can also be purchased separately), which acts as back padding on the trail and a cushy seat around camp. The Gorilla’s capacity is 40 liters, so it’s a good, comfy option for those with their gear dialed in.
VIEW AT GOSSAMER GEAR
DEUTER FUTURA VARIO 50+10
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 4lbs 9oz
- VOLUME: 60L (Medium)
- RAINCOVER: Yes
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- Zippered Stretch-Mesh Hipbelt Pockets
- Large U-Shaped 2-Way Zip Opening
- Front Stash Pocket
- Valuables Pocket Located Inside Lid Interior
BEST FOR: VERSATILITY
Founded in 1898, Deuter began making mail bags and later military gear. In 1928, the brand outfitted its first expedition and up until the 1970s, it provided the gear for nearly all German expeditions.
An expandable collar on the main compartment of this pack provides ten extra liters of storage, taking the expanded capacity to 60 liters. When not needed, the collar tucks away but can be quickly deployed for use. A tensioned mesh back panel allows for maximum airflow. Unlike other sized packs in this guide, the Futura Vario has an adjustable torso range of 15-22 inches. A multitude of pockets ensure quick access to needed items while the reservoir sleeve accommodates a three-liter bladder, ensuring you’ll have enough water for every long-distance hike.
VIEW AT AMAZON
REI CO-OP FLASH
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 2lbs 11oz
- VOLUME: 57L (Medium)
- RAINCOVER: No
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- Roll-Top Closure
- Breathable Mesh Front Pocket
- Exterior Side Pockets
- Water Bottle Pockets
BEST FOR: BUDGET BACKPACKING
What began as a co-op to provide quality gear has grown into one of the biggest retailers for outdoor gear in the United States. In addition to selling outdoor gear, REI designs and creates its own products. The result is high quality gear for anyone looking to get outside on a budget.
The Flash 55 is capable of a week-long trip or can be stripped down to the bare necessities for a quick overnight trip. The pack is designed to allow the user to modify it as needed. Pockets on the shoulder straps and hip belt provide additional storage or can be removed entirely to reduce weight. The adaptable compression straps along the outside of the pack can be moved, allowing the load to be shaped accordingly. Multiple pockets allow for exterior storage while the removable top lid can further customize the pack’s volume.
GREGORY OPTIC & OCTAL
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 2lbs 8oz
- VOLUME: 48L & 45L (Medium)
- MAX WEIGHT: 30 lbs
- RAINCOVER: Yes
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- AeroSpan Suspension
- FocusForm Ventilated Shoulder Straps
- Built-in Rain Cover
- Organized Storage
BEST FOR: BUDGET BACKPACKING PACK
The Optic 48 (men’s sizes) and Octal 45 (women’s sizes) are Gregory’s response to the increasing demand for lightweight backpacking gear. With features similar to Osprey’s Exos and Eja, the Optic is comfortable, sleek, and well-ventilated. Though not quite as comfortable as Osprey’s stretch mesh back panel, the frame on the Optic 48 feels very sturdy. The suspension transfers weight to the hips extremely well and can carry heavier loads quite comfortably. Overall, the Gregory Optic 48 is a solid lightweight pack with great features and a very affordable price tag.
OSPREY EXOS & EJA
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 2lbs 10oz
- VOLUME: 48L (Medium)
- MAX WEIGHT: 40 lbs
- RAINCOVER: No
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- ExoFoam Harness
- AirSpeed Ventilation Suspension System
- Removable Top Lid
- Dual Access Side Pockets
BEST FOR: COMFORTABLE LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACKING PACK
The Osprey Exos 48 (men’s sizes) and Eja 48 (women’s sizes) are extremely comfortable lightweight backpacks with great all-around value. The tensioned-mesh frame is sturdier than that of most lightweight packs and can carry heavier loads more comfortably. Our biggest complaint with the newest model is the lack of hip belt pockets. We spend a lot of time on the trail, so we like to have quick access to small items like our cell phone (for gps), chapstick, and a few snacks. The lack of hipbelt pockets may not be a big deal for everyone, though, and these packs still have a lot of great features to offer. Overall, if comfort is your main priority, these packs are among the very best.
VIEW AT AMAZON
ULA CIRCUIT
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 2lbs 9oz
- VOLUME: 68L (Medium)
- MAX WEIGHT: 35 lbs
- RAINCOVER: No
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- Durable Material
- Internal Foam Frame
- Roll-Top Closure
- Contoured Shoulder Straps
BEST FOR: DURABLE LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACKING PACK
The Ultralight Adventure Equipment Circuit is a comfortable, lightweight backpack made tough for the trail. The Circuit’s unique, three-part frame transfers weight to the hips well, but we do notice the weight of the pack pulling backwards slightly, leaving us a bit less balanced than we’d prefer. The mesh on the front pocket of this pack is far more durable than most backpacks and in general this pack is quite burly.
VIEW AT ULA
GRANITE GEAR CROWN2
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 2lbs 6.7oz
- VOLUME: 60L (Medium)
- MAX WEIGHT: 35
- RAINCOVER: No
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- Hip Belt Pockets
- Stretch Mesh Front Pocket
- Removable Sternum Strap
- Roll-Top Main Compartment
BEST FOR: TRAIL COMFORT
Founded in 1986, Granite Gear was created out of the desire to create high quality gear that was as tough as granite. The Crown2 60 is that and more.
The packs features a dual-density shoulder harness with load-lifting straps and a removable sternum strap, so you’ll hardly feel the weight of this pack on your back. The fully adjustable hip belt extends from 28-40 inches. Additionally, the pack has two large hip belt pockets, a stretchy mesh front pocket, and a removable lid. The roll-top main compartment allows quick access and easily compresses. For hydrating on-the-go, the internal bladder hanger supports the reservoir while threading the tubing through the hydration port keeps the tube easily accessible.
VIEW AT AMAZON
ZPACK ARC BLAST
SPECS
- WEIGHT: 1 lb 5 oz
- VOLUME: 55L (Medium)
- MAX WEIGHT: 35 lbs
- RAINCOVER: No
- HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY: Yes
FEATURES
- Dyneema Fabric
- Contoured Shoulder Straps and Hip Belt
- Roll-Top MainCompartment
- Torso Height Adjustment Mechanism
BEST FOR: ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING PACK
The ZPacks Arc Blast is a featherweight pack that’s great for thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers carrying base weights around 15 pounds or less. This pack’s unique arching frame creates a taut mesh back panel that provides good ventilation when not packed too full. The Arc Blast also has torso adjustment straps to help you dial in the perfect fit. ZPacks lists the Arc Blast’s volume at 55 liters, but it seems like its max volume is closer to 40 liters to get the proper fit. This pack is made with DCF fabric, which makes it highly water resistant and ridiculously light, but it also increases the price. All things considered, the Arc Blast is an exceptional backpack for ultralight trekkers with their gear dialed in.
VIEW AT ZPACKS
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A BACKPACKING BACKPACK
VOLUME
The size of the pack you’ll need for your trip is typically in direct proportion to the number of days you intend to spend on the trail. The volume refers to the capacity of the backpack. As a general rule:
- Weekend trips: Less than 50L (Small)
- Multi-day Trips: Greater than 50L (Medium)
- Extended backcountry trips: Greater than 70L (Large) – Unless you’ve got your pack weight/size dialed in then I’d go medium
Also, consider that summer trips will often require less gear than winter excursions, as you will need extra apparel and a warmer sleep system in the colder months.
SIZE (TORSO LENGTH)
Knowing how to properly fit a pack may be the most crucial consideration when choosing the best backpacking backpack. Determining your torso length will assist you in choosing the right size pack for your body. The torso length can be determined by measuring the distance between the C7 vertebra and the top of your hip bones.
Here’s how to determine the measurement so you can figure out what size pack you will need.
- First, grab a flexible measuring tape and a friend.
- Begin by leaning your neck forward. Reach back and feel for the bony bump that extends above the plane of your neck. This is your C7 vertebra and will be the top point from which to measure.
- Next, find the top of your hip bones and place your hands on your hips with your index finger pointing forward and your thumbs pointing towards your back. Draw an imaginary line between your thumbs. This is the bottom of your torso length.
- Finally, stand up straight and have your friend measure the distance between the two points. This is your torso length.
Having this measurement will help you to determine what size pack is right for you (small, medium, or large). Pack size varies between manufacturers, so make sure to refer to your torso length measurement to pick the pack size that is right for you.
WEIGHT
The weight of the pack can drastically add to the weight you are carrying. Large expedition packs can weigh substantially more than weekend packs. Expedition packs are designed to carry heavy loads and that often translates to needing a beefier suspension system so they’re usually constructed using more rugged (re: heavier) materials. Consider this: if you are looking to keep the weight that you are carrying for a trip to 40 pounds and the pack weighs five pounds, you can carry thirty-five pounds of gear.
PRIMARY USE
It is best to determine the intended use before purchasing a backpack. If you plan to spend most of your time enjoying weekend excursions, you can easily work with a smaller pack. If you want a pack that can occasionally take you on a multi-day backcountry experience, opt for a slightly larger pack. Just because you have the extra space doesn’t mean that you have to fill it for a weekend jaunt.
FEATURES EXPLAINED
HIP BELT
These padded arms located at the bottom of the pack are designed to help transfer the weight of the pack to your hips and minimize the downward weight on your shoulders. This is perhaps one of the most important parts of a pack. Hip belt pockets are ideal for storing small items that might be needed quickly while on the trail.
STERNUM STRAP
The sternum strap connects the two shoulder straps and is ideal when it’s adjustable to allow the user to find the perfect location on the chest.
COMPRESSION STRAPS
Compression straps strategically placed around the outside of the backpack allow for cinching the pack down for a more streamlined feel when carrying lighter loads. These straps can be released when carrying more gear.
TOP LID (AKA THE BRAIN)
Provided it has one, the top lid of the backpack is often referred to as the ‘brain’. This is a great place to store items that you might need quick access to such as a headlamp, extra snacks, and other essentials.
RAIN COVER
A rain cover can protect your pack and its contents from precipitation. Some packs come complete with rain covers and others must be purchased separately.
HYDRATION BLADDER
This water reservoir is advantageous when backpacking as it allows the user the option to sip water perpetually while in motion. Most backpacks come with an integrated sleeve in which to contain the bladder and have a hole in which the reservoir’s tube can be threaded. This bladder option is typically sold separately.
INTEGRATED DAYPACK
Some packs have the option to remove the lid (or brain) of the pack and this can be converted into a daypack for hikes away from basecamp.
MORE INFORMATION
I hope you found this gear guide helpful. As I stated at the beginning of the article, my goal here at The Epic Reviews is to offer unbiased opinions on the most popular gear on trail these days. If you have any questions on other backpacks or products out there, or would like to see me cover a particular topic in future articles, please drop me a line in the comment section below and I’ll get to work! Let me bring the information to you!
For more backpacking gear recommendations, check out:
*Editor’s note: Help support this site by making your next gear purchase through one of the links above at no extra costs to you. Click a link, buy what you need, and the seller will contribute a portion of the purchase price to support TheEpicReviews unsponsored gear reviews, articles, and hiking guides.
