Online shopping for a backpack is tough. How will it fit? Is it large enough, light enough, and have the right type of pockets for me? All of these are important questions. In this review, we focus on the critical components of an exceptional pack. We compared the top models on the market and figured out each pack’s strengths and weaknesses in the following categories: comfort and suspension, weight, organizational systems, and adjustability.
Every model we tested is different; some have adjustable features for maximum versatility, and some are created to fill a niche. We tested models that work best for fast and light backpacking and others that can haul a heavy load like it’s nothing. If you want lots of pockets to organize your gear into or a sleek look with minimal gear stored out of the main compartment, we tested all of these.
Backpacking Styles
No backpacking style is better than another, but there are packs that suit your style better than others. Consider if you’ll be taking single overnights, weekends, or weeklong trips. If you’re thru-hiking a long trail, prioritizing lighter weights might be more important to you than if you plan to stick to shorter trips. Those who will haul heavy loads for climbing expeditions or guiding should focus more on comfort, padding, and capacity. Each is unique to personal style and geographical parameters.
Leisure
Some hikers prefer to stop and smell the roses; they move slow and steady and don’t focus on covering a lot of distance. This style of backpacking is leisurely and typically allows plenty of time for photography, swimming in lakes, and rest time around camp. There is less concern for lightweight, compact gear, and this hiker can afford to carry an extra pound or two in exchange for added comfort.
This specific style covers shorter distances per day and typically enjoys shorter length trips overall. Features that will be most important will be the pack’s comfort with heavier loads and capacity if you like to bring everything but the kitchen sink on your backpacking glamping rambles. A lower priority might be quick access pockets that allow you to get to your gear while still wearing the pack since breaks can be frequent and leisurely.
Light and Fast
If you are primarily concerned with weight and your ability to cover distances quickly, you fit into this category of backpacker. This hiker may sacrifice some luxuries in the name of carrying a lighter-weight pack and less gear. Whether hiking 75 miles in 5 days or 2,000 miles in 5 months, this hiker pays the most attention to cutting down on weight and optimizing suspension to remain comfortable and unrestrained for going the distance. On-the-go pockets that allow this hiker to access gear and snacks without stopping are a top priority, so you can down a lot of calories without reducing your pace. Thickly padded hip belts and shoulder straps can be eschewed in favor of trimming ounces. Lighter loads won’t need the padding as they don’t put as much pressure on the body.
Thru-Hike
Then there are thru-hikers, who cover enormous distances over weeks to months, usually hiking continuously from the start to the finish of a particular trail. Similar to the light and fast style, the thru-hiker is typically very conscious of gear weight. This style requires more preparation and planning than a leisurely trip or even a weeklong trip. Thru-hikers tend to seek simplicity and durability with great suspension, as the packs will be used day in and day out for an extended period.
You might identify with one of these styles or even a combination, but by defining your style and priorities, you can narrow your options down by size, weight, and organizational needs.
Seasons, Climate and Environment
Most backpackers find that the summer months offer prime backpacking conditions with extended daylight hours and warmer temperatures. For those backpackers extending their hiking season to three or four seasons, consider the features you will need to be comfortable. The bulk of warmer sleeping bags and extra layers calls for a larger capacity pack than one used solely for mild weather travel.
Pack Capacity
A simple internet search will prove that the recommended capacity for different trips length varies greatly from one source to another. The reason for this is that personal style, budget, and in which decade the recommendation was written all impact how much space you need for your gear.