When it comes to hiking, your backpack is your lifeline—it carries your shelter, food, and essentials. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend trip or a multi-week trek, having the best hiking backpack ensures comfort, organization, and performance.
This guide covers the top-rated hiking backpacks of 2025, categorized by purpose, weight, price, and hiking experience.
🏆 Top 10 Best Hiking Backpacks (2025 Edition)
| Backpack | Best For | Capacity | Est. Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osprey Atmos AG 65 | All-around comfort | 65L | $330 | View on Amazon |
| Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 | Ultralight long treks | 55L–70L | $379 | View on Amazon |
| Gregory Baltoro 75 | Heavy loads / expedition hikes | 75L | $349 | View on Amazon |
| Deuter AirContact Lite 65+10 | Comfort + gear-heavy hiking | 65+10L | $260 | View on Amazon |
| REI Co-op Trailbreak 60 | Best budget starter pack | 60L | $149 | View on Amazon |
| Osprey Exos 58 | Lightweight hybrid | 58L | $260 | View on Amazon |
| Gregory Zulu 65 | Summer backpacking | 65L | $269 | View on Amazon |
| Granite Gear Blaze 60 | Long-distance hiking | 60L | $270 | View on Amazon |
| Osprey Rook 65 | Affordable for new hikers | 65L | $165 | View on Amazon |
| Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 | Ultralight, versatile | 50L | $255 | View on Amazon |
🧠 How to Pick the Best Hiking Backpack
1. 🧳 Capacity & Storage
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Day hikes: 20L–35L
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Weekend hikes: 40L–55L
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Multi-day hikes: 60L–80L
🛒 Kelty Redwing 50 Tactical Backpack – Day + Weekend Versatile
2. 💺 Comfort & Fit
Look for:
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Adjustable shoulder straps
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Padded hip belts
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Suspension systems (like Osprey’s Anti-Gravity)
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Breathable back panels
🛒 Osprey Atmos AG 65 – Supreme Comfort
3. 🧵 Durability & Materials
Choose:
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Ripstop nylon
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Water-resistant coatings
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Built-in or detachable rain covers
🛒 Deuter Rain Cover III – Backpack Protection
4. ⚖️ Weight
If you’re a thru-hiker or ultralight enthusiast, opt for packs under 3 lbs.
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ZPacks Arc Blast 55: 1.1 lbs
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Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400: 2.1 lbs
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Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50: 1.9 lbs
🎯 Best Hiking Backpacks by Category
🔹 Best Overall Hiking Backpack
🛶 Osprey Atmos AG 65
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Anti-Gravity suspension system
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Comfortable under heavy load
🛒 Buy on Amazon
🔹 Best Budget Hiking Backpack
🛶 REI Co-op Trailbreak 60
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Affordable, durable, beginner-friendly
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Simple suspension system
🛒Buy on Amazon
🔹 Best for Ultralight Hiking
🛶 Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 3400
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Ultralight Dyneema fabric
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Waterproof and bombproof
🛒 Buy on Amazon
🔹 Best for Heavy Loads
🛶 Gregory Baltoro 75
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Strong support for gear-heavy trips
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Great organization and hydration sleeve
🛒 Buy on Amazon
🔹 Best for Hot Weather
🛶 Gregory Zulu 65
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Open-air mesh suspension
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Designed to reduce back sweat
🛒 Buy on Amazon
📦 Hiking Backpack Accessories You’ll Love
🧭 Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Hiking Backpack?
The best hiking backpack depends on:
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How long you’re hiking
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What season/weather you’re preparing for
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Your weight capacity and comfort preference
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Whether ultralight gear is important to you
For most hikers, Osprey and Gregory lead the pack in performance, comfort, and reliability. Ultralight fans will love Hyperlite, ZPacks, and Gossamer Gear.
