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
Day hikes: 20L–35L
Weekend hikes: 40L–55L
Multi-day hikes: 60L–80L
🛒 Kelty Redwing 50 Tactical Backpack – Day + Weekend Versatile
2. 💺 Comfort & Fit
Look for:
Adjustable shoulder straps
Padded hip belts
Suspension systems (like Osprey’s Anti-Gravity)
Breathable back panels
🛒 Osprey Atmos AG 65 – Supreme Comfort
3. 🧵 Durability & Materials
Choose:
Ripstop nylon
Water-resistant coatings
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.
ZPacks Arc Blast 55: 1.1 lbs
Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400: 2.1 lbs
Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50: 1.9 lbs
🎯 Best Hiking Backpacks by Category
🔹 Best Overall Hiking Backpack
🛶 Osprey Atmos AG 65
Anti-Gravity suspension system
Comfortable under heavy load
🛒 Buy on Amazon
🔹 Best Budget Hiking Backpack
🛶 REI Co-op Trailbreak 60
Affordable, durable, beginner-friendly
Simple suspension system
🛒Buy on Amazon
🔹 Best for Ultralight Hiking
🛶 Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 3400
Ultralight Dyneema fabric
Waterproof and bombproof
🛒 Buy on Amazon
🔹 Best for Heavy Loads
🛶 Gregory Baltoro 75
Strong support for gear-heavy trips
Great organization and hydration sleeve
🛒 Buy on Amazon
🔹 Best for Hot Weather
🛶 Gregory Zulu 65
Open-air mesh suspension
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:
How long you’re hiking
What season/weather you’re preparing for
Your weight capacity and comfort preference
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.
