Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Find the perfect hiking backpack with our expert reviews and rigorous testing.
Choosing the right hiking backpack can make or break your outdoor adventure. Whether you're tackling a day hike or a multi-day trek, a well-designed backpack ensures comfort, durability, and easy access to your gear. A poorly chosen pack, however, can lead to aching shoulders, disorganized essentials, and even safety risks on the trail. With countless options on the market, finding the best hiking backpack for your needs requires understanding key factors like capacity, fit, weight, and weather resistance. Our 2025 guide dives deep into these elements to help you make an informed decision for every type of hike.
At Review Atlas, we’ve spent over 200 hours testing the top hiking backpacks across rugged terrains, from alpine trails to dense forests. Our team of outdoor enthusiasts and gear experts evaluates each pack based on comfort, load distribution, durability, and features like hydration compatibility and storage options. We’ve hiked with these packs in rain, heat, and cold to simulate real-world conditions, ensuring our recommendations stand up to the toughest challenges. Whether you're a beginner searching for a budget hiking backpack or a seasoned hiker needing a premium option, our list of the best hiking backpacks of 2025 covers all bases. Let’s help you find the perfect companion for your next adventure!
The Osprey Atmos AG 65 reigns as our top pick for 2025, thanks to its unbeatable blend of comfort and functionality. Designed for multi-day hikes, this 65-liter pack features Osprey’s Anti-Gravity suspension system, which molds to your body for exceptional load distribution, even on long treks. Weighing just 4.5 lbs, it offers ample storage with multiple compartments, including a sleeping bag divider and hip belt pockets. Testers loved its breathable back panel, ideal for sweaty ascents, and the adjustable torso length for a custom fit. Pros: Superior comfort, durable 100D nylon, hydration sleeve. Cons: Slightly pricey for casual hikers. If you’re serious about backpacking, the Atmos AG 65 is the best hiking backpack for extended adventures.
As our Editor’s Choice, the Gregory Baltoro 65 stands out for its premium build and thoughtful design, perfect for serious backpackers. This 65-liter pack boasts a Response A3 suspension system that dynamically adjusts to your movements, offering unparalleled support for heavy loads. At 5 lbs, it’s packed with features like a removable daypack, weatherproof zippers, and a U-Zip front access panel for easy gear retrieval. Our testers raved about its plush shoulder straps and customizable fit. Pros: Excellent load balance, high-quality materials, versatile storage. Cons: Heavier than some competitors. For those seeking a top-tier hiking backpack with luxury features, the Baltoro 65 is worth every penny.
For hikers on a budget, the REI Co-op Traverse 32 is our Budget Pick for 2025, delivering solid performance at an affordable price. This 32-liter daypack is lightweight at 2.5 lbs and ideal for shorter hikes or minimalist treks. It features REI’s RAIN system for adjustable fit, padded shoulder straps, and a hydration reservoir sleeve. Testers appreciated the side compression straps and ample pockets for organization. While it lacks the capacity for multi-day trips, it’s a fantastic entry-level hiking backpack. Pros: Affordable, lightweight, comfortable for day hikes. Cons: Limited storage, less durable under heavy loads. Perfect for beginners or casual adventurers on a tight budget.
The Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10 is a standout for mid-range backpackers seeking versatility. With a 50-liter base capacity (expandable to 60), it’s great for weekend trips or longer hikes. Weighing 3.5 lbs, it features Deuter’s Aircontact back system for ventilation and a VariFlex hip belt for dynamic load support. Our team loved the top-loading design and separate bottom compartment for gear organization. It’s also made with durable, eco-friendly materials. Pros: Lightweight for its size, excellent ventilation, adjustable fit. Cons: Fewer external pockets than competitors. A reliable hiking backpack for those stepping up to multi-day adventures.
The Arc’teryx Bora 50 is a premium choice for hikers who prioritize durability and weather resistance. This 50-liter pack, weighing 4.8 lbs, uses Arc’teryx’s signature waterproof fabric and taped seams to keep gear dry in harsh conditions. The RotoGlide hip belt reduces friction during long walks, and the GridLock shoulder straps adjust for a perfect fit. Testers noted its sleek design and robust build, though storage options are somewhat limited. Pros: Weatherproof, innovative hip belt, premium materials. Cons: Expensive, fewer compartments. A top hiking backpack for wet climates or rugged terrain.
The Thule Capstone 50L offers a balanced mix of capacity and comfort for weekend warriors. At 50 liters and 3.2 lbs, it’s equipped with a customizable suspension system and a breathable back panel for sweaty hikes. Features like a removable lid (convertible to a daypack) and side-access zippers impressed our testers for their practicality. It’s ideal for 1-3 day trips with plenty of storage options. Pros: Versatile lid design, lightweight, good ventilation. Cons: Less durable under extreme conditions. A solid mid-range hiking backpack for casual to moderate use.
The Kelty Coyote 60-80 is a spacious option for extended treks, with an adjustable capacity from 60 to 80 liters. Weighing 4.7 lbs, it features Kelty’s PerfectFIT suspension for a tailored fit and a dual-use hip belt pocket for quick access to essentials. Testers liked the top-loading design and multiple access points, though it’s bulkier than some alternatives. Pros: High capacity, adjustable fit, affordable for its size. Cons: Heavier, less breathable back panel. A great hiking backpack for long hauls on a budget.
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 caters to ultralight enthusiasts with its minimalist design. At just 2.2 lbs for a 55-liter capacity, it’s made from durable Dyneema fabric, offering strength without bulk. Our testers appreciated the roll-top closure and external mesh pockets for gear, though it lacks padded comfort for heavy loads. Pros: Ultralight, durable, waterproof. Cons: Minimal padding, higher cost. An excellent hiking backpack for thru-hikers prioritizing weight savings.
The Patagonia Black Hole 32L is a rugged daypack for shorter hikes or urban-to-trail transitions. Weighing 2 lbs, this 32-liter pack uses recycled, weather-resistant fabric to protect gear. Testers loved the padded laptop sleeve and simple design, though it’s not suited for heavy loads or long treks. Pros: Eco-friendly, durable, lightweight. Cons: Limited capacity, basic suspension. A stylish, reliable hiking backpack for casual day hikes.
The Mystery Ranch Terraframe 50 is built for heavy haulers with its external frame design. This 50-liter pack, at 5.3 lbs, excels at carrying oversized loads with a rigid frame and adjustable harness. Testers praised its durability and load stability, ideal for hunters or gear-heavy trips, though it’s overkill for casual hikes. Pros: Exceptional load capacity, durable, stable. Cons: Heavy, complex fit adjustments. A niche hiking backpack for specialized, heavy-duty use.
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Osprey Atmos AG 65 Rank #1 | 🏆 Top Pick | N/A | Check price |
Flags of our Fathers (Edited Version) Rank #2 | ⭐ Editor's Choice | N/A | Check price |
Barefoot Shoes Men Wide Toe Box Zero Drop Water Shoes Men for Gym Workout Minimalist Weightlifting Cross-Trainer Running Hike Grounded Footwear 8.5 Black Brown Rank #3 | 💰 Budget Pick | 4.3 4.3 | |
Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10 Rank #4 | — | N/A | Check price |
Arc’teryx Bora 50 Rank #5 | — | N/A | Check price |
Thule Capstone 50L Rank #6 | — | N/A | Check price |
Kelty Coyote 60-80 Rank #7 | — | N/A | Check price |
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 Rank #8 | — | N/A | Check price |
Patagonia Black Hole 32L Rank #9 | — | N/A | Check price |
Mystery Ranch Terraframe 50 Rank #10 | — | N/A | Check price |
Review Atlas Team - Editorial Team
