Top Camping Backpack Reviews
Finding a backpack that feels perfect on your camping trips is about nailing down comfort, durability, and how much you can stuff in it. Here’s my take on the best camping backpacks to guide you right.
Osprey Atmos AG 65
The Osprey Atmos AG 65’s Anti-Gravity suspension system feels like a hug on long hikes. With its mesh back, you won’t sweat buckets.
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Guts (Capacity) | 65 Liters |
| Heavy or Light? (Weight) | 4.56 lbs |
| Skin (Material) | 100D x 630D Nylon Dobby |
Pros include its cool custom fit and tons of pockets for your knickknacks. On the downside, it’s a bit of a heavyweight. Need something lighter? Check out Osprey: Lightweight Backpacks.
REI Co-op Trailmade 60
The REI Co-op Trailmade 60 is a steal for quality. It can adjust to your torso and has a padded hipbelt to handle weight like a pro.
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Guts (Capacity) | 60 Liters |
| Heavy or Light? (Weight) | 3.75 lbs |
| Skin (Material) | 210D Nylon Ripstop |
It’s a good buy, though the padding could be beefier for heftier stuff. For a closer peek at the top, slide over to top-rated camping equipment reviews.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55
Fans of light living love the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55. Made with Dyneema, it’s all about staying strong without the extra pounds.
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Guts (Capacity) | 55 Liters |
| Heavy or Light? (Weight) | 2.44 lbs |
| Skin (Material) | Dyneema Composite Fabric |
This one’s stripped-down design skips extra pockets, but it’s got the weight thing nailed. Into the ultralight life? Check out a full breakdown at pros and cons of ultralight backpacking.
Gregory Baltoro 75
Packing for long hauls? The Gregory Baltoro 75’s got room for days. Its Response A3 system keeps you comfy while giving you easy access.
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Guts (Capacity) | 75 Liters |
| Heavy or Light? (Weight) | 5.84 lbs |
| Skin (Material) | 210D Nylon & 420D HD Nylon |
It’s heavy, which might cramp the minimalist’s style. But if space and support are what you need, this one’s a winner. More Gregory options await you at Gregory: Hiking Backpacks.
Osprey Exos 58
For those loving light loads, the Osprey Exos 58 is a champ. It’s praised for comfort and its feather-light frame, with a back that lets the breeze through.
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Guts (Capacity) | 58 Liters |
| Heavy or Light? (Weight) | 2.71 lbs |
| Skin (Material) | 100D High Tenacity Nylon |
But if you’re lugging heavy, this might not cut it. Think about your pack weight before jumping in. For more fluffy-light Osprey, look up Osprey: Lightweight Backpacks.
Granite Gear Blaze 60
Blending toughness with featheriness, the Granite Gear Blaze 60’s adjustable torso and Re-Fit hip belt give you a snug ride, no matter where you’re headed.
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Guts (Capacity) | 60 Liters |
| Heavy or Light? (Weight) | 3 lbs |
| Skin (Material) | 210D Robic Nylon |
The pack’s no-nonsense build works wonders, though some might miss more outside pockets. Round up other gear with my camping knife reviews for top-notch camping insights.
Types of Camping Backpacks
When gearing up for a camping trip, picking the right backpack makes all the difference between an easy-breezy adventure or one filled with struggles and backaches. I’m here to guide you through the three backpack styles you’ll likely encounter: those made for weekend escapes, slightly longer outings, and grand adventures requiring extended stays.
Weekend Packs
For jaunts lasting a couple of nights, weekend packs are your pal. They’re spacious enough—30 to 50 liters—to squeeze in all the necessities without overwhelming you. With these on your back, you’re ready to go, be it a short hike or a two-day camp-out.
| Feature | Weekend Packs |
|---|---|
| Trip Duration | 1-3 nights |
| Capacity | 30-50 liters |
| Best Use | Short trips, day hikes |
Even though they’re on the smaller side, you still get plenty of pockets and compartments for your gear. Need some pointers on what to stuff in there? Peek at our camping gear reviews.
Multiday Packs
If the plan’s to be out in the wild for 3 to 5 nights, multiday packs step in as the handy sidekick. These can hold 50 to 80 liters worth of your prized camping bits and bobs.
| Feature | Multiday Packs |
|---|---|
| Trip Duration | 3-5 nights |
| Capacity | 50-80 liters |
| Best Use | Moderate-length trips |
With multiday packs, you’ll feel the love through padded hipbelts and adjustable straps that evenly load the weight. Plus, they’ve got hooks and loops galore for those extra camping extras like camping stoves or camping coolers.
Extended-Trip Packs
For the brave souls setting out on journeys of a week or more, extended-trip packs come to the rescue. Boasting 70 liters and above, these giants are made to haul whatever your heart desires for a truly awesome outing.
| Feature | Extended-Trip Packs |
|---|---|
| Trip Duration | 5+ nights |
| Capacity | 70 liters or more |
| Best Use | Long-duration trips |
Extended-trip packs are champs in the comfort arena, a godsend for heavy-duty trekking. Swappable belts and ergonomic designs mean they mold perfectly to your frame, making the trek less of a drag. Pondering the ultimate camp setup? Swing by our camping tent reviews to find the perfect match.
There’s a backpack for every trek; it’s all about knowing your camping gig and picking the right one for the journey ahead. If you’re still curious about the bells and whistles on these packs, don’t miss our backpack features to consider.
Backpack Features to Consider
Choosing the right backpack for your camping trips involves more than just picking something that looks cool. Let’s chat about a few things to keep in mind when you’re packing up for your next adventure.
Backpanel Ventilation
Ever get that sticky-back feeling while you’re hiking? Yeah, that’s no fun. That’s why backpanel ventilation is a big deal. Some backpacks come with this nifty suspended mesh back panel, which keeps the backpack a little bit off your back, letting air flow through so you don’t wind up with a sweaty shirt. Other packs have these built-in ventilation channels that basically do the same thing but still keep things close to your back (REI).
| Thingamajig | What’s it do? |
|---|---|
| Suspended Mesh Back | Lets air circulate by keeping the backpack off your back |
| Ventilation Channels | Built-in grooves that help with airflow |
| Combo Deal | Some packs mix both methods for extra breeze |
Pocket Placement
Where you shove your stuff can change the whole camping game. Pocket size and pocket placement are more important than you’d think. Pocket types range from side pockets for your trusty water bottle to hipbelt pockets for quick-grab snacks and maps, and even shovel pockets for the big stuff like jackets or pots (REI).
| Pocket Pro | What’s Good For |
|---|---|
| Side Pockets | Just right for water bottles or small things |
| Hipbelt Pockets | Handy for treats, maps, and stuff you need in a hurry |
| Shovel Pockets | Great for hauling bulkier gear like a coat or cooking supplies |
Knowing where to stash your gear makes a big difference when you’re out there. Don’t forget to peep our camping knife reviews to find the neat stuff to pop in those pockets.
Removable Daypacks
Modern backpacks often come with removable daypacks, which is a pretty neat trick. You can detach it for those short jaunts from camp, maybe even for a quick mountain top adventure or a run to fetch some supplies during a long hike (REI). These daypacks can be turned into a hipbelt pack or a light backpack for quicker expeditions.
| Extra Bit | What’s It Do For You? |
|---|---|
| Removable Daypack | Flexibility for shorter trips away from the base camp |
| Hipbelt Pack Option | Just attach it to your waist for a lighter load |
| Lightweight Bag | Functions as a tiny backpack for short hikes or emergency missions |
Grabbing a backpack with these handy features will make your camping trips way smoother and ultimately more fun. If you’re on the hunt for more camping gear goodies, check out our camping tent reviews for top-notch shelter ideas on your next journey.
Support and Fit
Picking the perfect camping backpack is like finding your adventure soulmate—it needs to hug your body just right. A good backpack plays nice with your body’s shape, making every step feel like a breeze.
Weight Distribution
You don’t wanna be a human seesaw with all that weight swinging around, right? So, a backpack should load most of that weight on your hips. Trust me, your hips are the burly ones here—not your shoulders. They know how to handle the load for longer treks. Take the Osprey Atmos AG 65 for instance—this bad boy’s got your back (literally) with its clever weight-spreading magic, ideal for packs under 45 pounds (Outdoor Gear Lab). Got more gear? No sweat—the Osprey Aether 65 is built for that too, helping you carry heavier loads like it ain’t no thing.
| Backpack | Sweet Spot Load | Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Osprey Atmos AG 65 | < 45 | 4.6 |
| Osprey Aether 65 | > 45 | 5.0 |
Hipbelt Design
Think of the hipbelt as the unsung hero in your backpacking saga. It’s what keeps all that weight chillin’ on your hips. You need one that’s comfy, snug, and adjusts to match your hips—whether you’re dealing with mid-20 inches or mid-40s (REI). No slipping and sliding while you’re on the move. The Gregory Baltoro 75 nails this with a hipbelt that sticks to you like a best friend, keeping every step steady and comfy when you’re chasing the horizon.
Interchangeable Hipbelts
Some folks’ waistlines like to keep things interesting. That’s where interchangeable hipbelts strut in. They let you tweak and adjust as your measurements go on a wild ride or if you’re sharing a pack (sharing is caring, after all). Brands like Osprey and Gregory offer these adaptable heroes, especially in their swankier models, giving you the good fit you deserve for comfy, supported hiking.
In a nutshell, balancing weight, high-fiving hipbelt design, and the magic of interchangeable belts make backpacking a smoother ride. For a big-fat scoop of gear goodness, check out our best camping gear reviews and prepare to have your mind blown.
Got more camping reads to satisfy your curiosity? Look here:
Best Backpack Recommendations
Picking the right backpack can really boost your outdoor adventures. Here are my top picks for backpack brands that cater to different needs and uses.
Herschel: Travel Backpacks
If travel’s your game, Herschel’s a brand you can count on, blending style with function. Named the best overall backpack brand for travel by Travel + Leisure, they nail it with sturdy materials, plenty of pockets, and comfy straps. The Kaslo Backpack Tech is a champ, swallowing up clothes for days, multiple laptops, toiletries, and even a small camera.
What’s to Love:
- Tons of compartments
- Comfy straps
- Cool vintage styles
Need more on travel essentials? Dive into our camping stove reviews.
Gregory: Hiking Backpacks
Gregory stakes its claim in the hiking scene. It’s well-known for making tough, featherweight bags perfect for either a quick hike or a long trek, as recognized by Travel + Leisure. The Katmai 55 Pack is a fan favorite, boasting high-grade materials, sizing up to 6XL, and hydro tanks for hikers and cyclists.
What’s to Love:
- Tough build
- Ideal for long trips
- Size options aplenty
On the hunt for more hiking gear? Peek at our camping chair reviews.
Samsonite: Business Travel Backpacks
Samsonite’s your go-to for business travel backpacks. They mix smarts with durability, rolling out backpacks that come battle-ready for travel with lots of spots for organizing your stuff. Their popular models feature a snuggled laptop sleeve and snappy pockets for must-haves like your passport and boarding pass, as noted by Travel + Leisure.
What’s to Love:
- Sturdy build
- Tons of pockets
- Secure laptop nook
Want more business travel gear? See our camping cooler reviews.
Cotopaxi: Sustainable Backpacks
Concerned about the planet? Cotopaxi’s got you covered. Applauded by Travel + Leisure for their green designs, they use 94% recycled, repurposed or responsible materials. Plus, they give back 1% of their profits to uplift communities through the Cotopaxi Foundation.
What’s to Love:
- Planet-friendly materials
- Bright, bold designs
- Supports great causes
See how to eco-up your load by checking out our camping hammock reviews.
Osprey: Lightweight Backpacks
Osprey rolls out some of the snazziest lightweight backpacks, perfect for those wanting to save their back from extra weight. The Osprey Daylite Plus Pack, as commended by Travel + Leisure, shines with its featherweight design (just 1.3 pounds) and gear like a padded laptop sleeve and a webbed hip belt that you can take off.
What’s to Love:
- Featherweight build
- Snug laptop nook
- Balances weight well
Curious about smart packing? Check out our camping knife reviews.
Check out these picks to snag the right backpack for you, fitting whatever it is you need – whether it’s adventure, business, sustainability, or keeping things light. Choosing the right gear can level up your outdoor fun. For more gear, head to our best camping gear reviews.
Pros and Cons of Ultralight Backpacking
Cost Considerations
Switching to ultralight backpacking can feel like a punch in the wallet. Getting the fancy lightweight gear means shelling out some serious cash, even if your old heavy stuff’s still in one piece. Yep, it’s pricey, but it’s like paying for a VIP pass in the backpacking world.
| Gear Type | Old School Price | Light as a Feather Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tent | $100 | $300 |
| Sleeping Bag | $150 | $400 |
| Backpack | $200 | $350 |
Durability
With ultralight gear, you’ve got this trade-off where weight’s forgotten, but durability’s kinda sidelined. Stuff made from Dyneema and Cuben Fiber holds up pretty well for their weight class, but they’re not quite as tough as the beefier 70D nylon. It’s like trading in a sturdy old pickup for a sleek new car—looks great, goes fast, but don’t expect it to haul the heaviest loads.
Comfort Sacrifices
Going ultralight often means you’re leaving the cushy comforts behind. Smaller tents feel like crawling into a cocoon, thinner sleeping pads make the ground feel a bit rockier, and you may need to ditch the two-burner stove for a single flame. It’s a bit of balancing act between being cushy and going easy on your back.
Enjoyment of Challenge
Some folks get a real kick out of ultralight backpacking because it’s like a challenging puzzle. Piecing together the essentials while keeping that pack light is half the fun. It’s minimalism with a purpose and, if chess isn’t your thing, this might be your kind of strategy game.
Joint Strain Relief
Here’s the main perk: your joints will thank you. Lighter gear takes the load off your knees, ankles, and back. If you’ve ever felt your knees complaining or know the woes of a creaky back, ultralight gear is your new best friend. It’s a lovely excuse to keep hitting the trails, even if your joints don’t think they’re as young as they used to be.
Ultralight backpacking gear is like that friend who drags you off the couch to go hiking. Check out some other reviews on camping stoves, camping chairs, and coolers if you want to dive into more gear chats.
