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The Best Backpacking Backpacks for 2024
Starting your hiking adventure with the right gear is crucial in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. A fundamental part of this gear is a reliable backpack that carries your essentials with ease and comfort. In this blog, we will introduce you to the best hiking backpacks for 2024, covering a comprehensive range of options suitable for various needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for the best all-around option, the most comfortable pack, or the top choice for ultralight backpacking, we have you covered. Read on to find the perfect backpack for your next trip.
Best Overall Backpacking Backpack
Granite Gear Blaze 60
The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is renowned for its perfect balance of comfort, durability, and weight. This backpack features a robust yet adaptable frame capable of handling a variety of loads, making it suitable for extended trips. Its revolutionary Re-Fit hip belt allows you to adjust the fit on the move, ensuring maximum comfort throughout your hike. Additionally, the Blaze 60 boasts ample storage with well-organized compartments that make accessing your gear a breeze. The zipper-free, roll-top main compartment is designed to keep your gear dry, while the large front stash pocket offers extra space for quick-access items. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended adventure, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 stands out as a reliable choice.
Best Bang for the Buck
REI Co-op Flash 55
For hikers seeking exceptional value without compromising performance, the REI Co-op Flash 55 is an outstanding choice. With a price point well below many premium models, the Flash 55 delivers a lightweight design combined with a strong and supportive frame. It weighs just over 2.5 pounds, yet it can comfortably carry up to 30 pounds thanks to its well-engineered suspension system. This backpack also features a customizable pack design with removable pockets and straps, allowing you to streamline your gear for different types of trips. The ventilated back panel and adjustable hip belt ensure a comfortable fit, making it a versatile option for budget-conscious hikers looking for quality on a dime.
Best for Superior Comfort
Osprey Atmos 65 AG
The Osprey Atmos 65 AG is top-rated for its unparalleled comfort, thanks to the Anti-Gravity suspension system. This innovative design seamlessly distributes weight and offers excellent ventilation, reducing sweat and discomfort on longer hikes. The shoulder straps and hip belt are exceptionally padded, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit even with heavier loads. Moreover, the Atmos 65 AG provides an array of pockets and compartments, enabling excellent organization. Its adjustable harness and hip belt accommodate various body types, making it one of the most versatile and user-friendly packs on the market. If comfort is your top priority, the Osprey Atmos 65 AG is the clear winner.
Best Lightweight Support for Long Distances
Ultralight Adventure Equipment Catalyst
If you’re an ultralight backpacker looking for maximum support, the Ultralight Adventure Equipment (ULA) Catalyst deserves your attention. Weighing in at just 48 ounces, the Catalyst can support up to 40 pounds of gear, making it ideal for long-distance hikes where every ounce matters. Its sturdy yet lightweight frame offers excellent back support, allowing you to hike longer with less strain. The Catalyst includes numerous customization options, from adjustable torso lengths to optional hip belt pockets, ensuring a perfect fit for all users. Its spacious design and thoughtful compartment layout help keep your gear organized and accessible, making this pack a favorite among long-distance trekkers.
Best for Carrying Heavy Loads
Osprey Aether 65
For those who need to carry heavy loads, the Osprey Aether 65 excels in delivering exceptional support and durability. Its robust build features a highly adjustable fit, with a customizable hip belt and shoulder harness that cater to diverse body shapes and sizes. Despite its sturdiness, the Aether 65 offers remarkable comfort, even under heavy loads. The pack’s extensive storage options include multiple compartments and external attachment points, making it easy to organize your gear. The top lid can also be converted into a daypack, adding versatility for shorter excursions once you’ve set up camp. If your adventures require hauling substantial gear, the Aether 65 won’t let you down.
Best Organizational Features
Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10
The Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10 is the ultimate backpack for those who prioritize organization. Its thoughtful design includes a unique front U-shaped zipper, allowing easy access to the main compartment without needing to unload your entire pack. Mesh pockets and various internal dividers help keep your gear methodically arranged. In addition to its organizational prowess, the Aircontact Core 65+10 boasts excellent comfort and support. The ergonomic hip fins and adjustable back system provide a tailored fit, while the well-ventilated padding ensures you stay cool and comfortable. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend camping trip or an extended expedition, this backpack keeps everything in its place.
Best Overall Ultralight Backpack
Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60
The Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is hailed as the best overall ultralight backpack, offering an extraordinary combination of minimal weight and maximum capacity. At just over 2 pounds, the Mariposa 60 is incredibly light, but that doesn’t mean it sacrifices on comfort or durability. The use of durable, lightweight fabrics ensures your gear stays protected. What sets the Mariposa 60 apart is its practical design featuring seven external pockets for organized packing, a removable stay, and a SitLight pad that doubles as a camp seat or sleeping pad. This backpack caters to ultralight enthusiasts who still want some of the conveniences provided by heavier packs.
Compare Products
When comparing the top backpacking backpacks, it’s vital to consider factors such as comfort, weight, capacity, and additional features. The Granite Gear Blaze 60 shines as the best overall pack due to its balanced features. If you’re budget-conscious, the REI Co-op Flash 55 offers exceptional value. For those emphasizing comfort, the Osprey Atmos 65 AG is unmatched, while the ULA Catalyst is perfect for ultralight long-distance hikes. For carrying heavy loads, the Osprey Aether 65 stands out with its robust construction. The Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10 is ideal for hikers needing excellent organizational features, and the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is the top ultralight option. Each backpack has its unique strengths, so your choice will depend on your specific hiking needs.
How We Test Backpacking Backpacks
Our evaluation of backpacking backpacks involves rigorous and comprehensive testing under real-world conditions. We assess these packs on various terrains, from rocky trails to dense forests, and through different weather conditions. Key aspects such as comfort, durability, weight distribution, accessibility, and organizational features are meticulously examined. We also gather feedback from seasoned hikers who use these backpacks over extended periods, ensuring that our recommendations are based on both expert assessments and user experiences. This methodical approach guarantees that the backpacks we highlight are not only high-quality but also well-suited to diverse hiking scenarios.
Why Trust GearLab
At GearLab, we pride ourselves on delivering honest, unbiased reviews based on extensive testing and firsthand experience. Our team of dedicated outdoor enthusiasts is committed to helping you make informed decisions by providing detailed and accurate information. We purchase all our review gear independently, ensuring our reviews remain free from manufacturer bias. Additionally, our rigorous, field-tested approach guarantees that our recommendations are grounded in real-world use, rather than lab conditions. Your trust is our priority, and we strive to be your reliable source for outdoor gear insights and advice.
Analysis and Test Results
What’s the Best Value?
In terms of value, the REI Co-op Flash 55 stands out. It offers a superb combination of light weight, durability, and functionality for a fraction of the cost of higher-end models. This backpack ensures you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability, making it the best bang-for-the-buck option.
Comfort
Comfort is critical on long hikes, and the Osprey Atmos 65 AG leads the pack in this category. Its Anti-Gravity suspension system and highly padded straps provide unmatched comfort, even on the toughest trails. The customizable fit options further enhance user comfort, ensuring a pleasant hiking experience.
Ease of Use
The Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10 excels in ease of use, thanks to its intuitive design and organizational features. The front U-shaped zipper allows quick access to the main compartment, and the multiple pockets make it easy to organize and retrieve your gear. This pack ensures you spend less time rummaging and more time hiking.
Weight-to-Volume Ratio
The Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 offers the best weight-to-volume ratio, providing ample space for gear while maintaining an ultralight profile. Its smart design and lightweight materials ensure you can carry everything you need without being weighed down. This balance makes it ideal for ultralight backpackers.
Adjustability
When it comes to adjustability, the Osprey Aether 65 stands out. Its highly customizable harness and hip belt system allow for a tailored fit, accommodating various body shapes and sizes. This adjustability ensures maximum comfort and stability, especially when carrying heavy loads.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect backpacking backpack depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a summary of our top picks to help you make an informed decision:
| Category | Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall Backpacking Backpack | Granite Gear Blaze 60 | Adjustable hip belt, ample storage, zipper-free design |
| Best Bang for the Buck | REI Co-op Flash 55 | Lightweight, customizable design, budget-friendly |
| Best for Superior Comfort | Osprey Atmos 65 AG | Anti-Gravity suspension, adjustable harness, ventilated back panel |
| Best Lightweight Support for Long Distances | ULA Catalyst | Lightweight, strong frame, customizable options |
| Best for Carrying Heavy Loads | Osprey Aether 65 | Robust build, adjustable fit, extensive storage |
| Best Organizational Features | Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10 | Front U-shaped zipper, multiple pockets, ergonomic design |
| Best Overall Ultralight Backpack | Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 | Minimal weight, durable fabrics, practical design |
Embark on your next adventure equipped with the right backpack, ensuring comfort, durability, and ease of use. These top-rated backpacks are designed to meet the demands of various hiking preferences and adventures, making your journey more enjoyable and hassle-free. Happy hiking!
