One of the biggest rewards as hikers is walking through incredible landscapes and enjoying the beauties of nature. However, the price we pay for such stunning scenery is that we often end up walking in the rain. Therefore, we need the best waterproof backpack that will keep equipment dry no matter how wet the weather.
Not only do you want a backpack that protects your gear from the elements, but you also need to carry everything you need on your trip comfortably. Bonus points for being able to organize your kit and easily access whatever items you require.
While this may seem like a lot to expect of a backpack there are several companies making backpacks that fulfil this criteria. We’ve spent countless hours on the trail testing out the backpacks we’ve recommended below. We’ve also discounted plenty that haven’t quite cut it in our stringent tests.
In our round up below, we go through the backpacks that we think are the best for every scenario that our team has tried and tested. We’ve also highlighted the vital features and compared the essential data to make it easier for you to pick the backpack that is perfect for you. If you’re looking for a smaller pack, you may also want to check out our guide to daypacks for hiking.
Editor’s note: This review was updated in September 2024 to reflect further real world testing experience on some of our recent backpacking trips. We’ve also included updates from testing the new version of the Granite Gear Blaze 60.
Product | Osprey Atmos AG 65 | Osprey Kestrel 48 | Osprey Aether Plus 70 | Gregory Paragon 58 | Gregory Baltoro 65 | Big Agnes Parkview 63 | Osprey Aether 65 | Granite Gear Blaze 60 Women | The North Face Women's Terra 55 | Dueter Air Contact Core 60+10 |
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Buying Options | ||||||||||
Our Award | Best for Men | Best Lighter Backpack for Men | Best Large Capacity Backpack for Men | Best for Women | Best Lighter Backpack for Women | Best Large Capacity Backpack for Women | ||||
Size | S/M - L/XL | S/M - L/XL | S/M - L/XL | S/M - M/L | S - M - L | M - L | S/M - L/XL | WS - UL | XS/S - M/L | W - Regular |
Weight | 2 - 2.2 kg | 1.9 - 2.1 kg | 2.5 - 2.8 kg | 1.5 - 1.6 kg | 2.1 - 2.4 kg | 1.6 - 1.8 kg | 2.2 - 2.3 kg | 1.3 - 1.4 kg | 1.6 - 1.7 kg | 2.1 - 2.3 kg |
Capacity | 65 - 68 liters | 46 - 48 litres | 68 - 70 liters | 58 litres | 65 litres | 63 + 10 liters | 65 - 68 liters | 60 liters | 55 litres | 60 + 10 liters |
Load | 13.6 – 18 kg | 9.1 – 15.9 kg | 14 – 27 kg | 22.7 kg | 22.7 kg | 22.7 kg | 14 - 27 kg | 22.7 kg | N/A | 15 - 20 kg |
Pockets | 9 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 8 |
Torso Lengths | 43 - 58.9 | 40.5 - 58.5 cm | 43 - 58.5 cm | 38 - 60 cm | 40.6 - 55.9 cm | 46 - 56 cm | 43 - 58.5 cm | 38.1 - 60.9 cm | 35.5 - 47.7 cm | 35 - 62 cm |
Rain Cover | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
This article is part of our buyers guide to waterproof hiking backpacks. See other articles in this series:
- How to Choose The Right Waterproof Backpack For Your Hike
- How We Tested Waterproof Hiking Backpacks
- Compare Waterproof Hiking Backpacks
- Water Resistant vs Waterproof vs Water Repellent – What is the Difference
Looking for other waterproof gear? Check out our buyers guides on:
Looking for a smaller pack? Read our guide on the best hiking daypacks.
These are the seven backpacks we recommend for men:
Osprey Atmos AG 65 - Best for Men
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Very comfortable to carry
- Lots of storage options
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Not suitable to carry more than 18kg / 40 lbs
- Water pockets are not easy to use
See the Osprey AG 65 in more detail:
From our tests, we’re confident to say that the Osprey AG 65 boasts a comprehensive set of features catering to the needs of any hiker. With nine pockets, gear organization becomes effortless, and additional straps and loops offer ample storage options. The pockets, most of which are zippered, provide easy access, though the dual-access water bottle pockets can be awkward to use.
One area we feel sets this backpack apart is its high comfort levels and adjustable fit, accommodating a wide range of body sizes. The Anti-Gravity system ensures comfortable load-carrying, complemented by generous padding. Customizing the fit to your frame is easy, making it simple to carry your load correctly.
This backpack is made from 210 and 500 denier nylon with a DWR coating, making it durable and water-resistant. A custom-fit rain cover is included in case of unexpected rain during your hike.
While it’s slightly heavier compared to similar models, you really don’t notice it or find yourself complaining about it and the additional storage and padding is appreciated. The backpack can handle a maximum load of 18kg/40 lbs, but exceeding this limit may affect its performance. Overall, the Osprey AG 65 is a well-designed backpack that’s difficult to fault.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Load | Measurements | Torso Length |
Small/ Medium | 65 liters
3,967 cubic inches | 2 kg
4.6 lbs | 13.6 – 18kg
30 - 40 lbs
| 83 x 39 x 36 cm
32.7 x 15.3 x 14.2 inches
| 43 - 52 cm
17 - 20.5 inches |
Large/ Extra Large | 68 liters
4,150 cubic inches
| 2.2 kg
4.8 lbs
| 13.6 – 18kg
30 - 40 lbs
| 89 x 39 x 36 cm
34.6 x 15.3 x 14.2 inches
| 49 - 58.9 cm
19.5 - 23 inches
|
Osprey Kestrel 48 - Best Lighter Backpack for Men
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight but fully featured
- Budget price
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Difficult to access water bottle when fully loaded
- Less capacity than heavier backpacks
See the Osprey Kestrel 48 in more detail:
Modern camping equipment has evolved to be remarkably lightweight, reducing the need for backpacks built to handle heavy loads. If you have the latest light camping equipment, this backpack is an excellent choice for you. It maintains the same intelligent design and high-quality standards as larger Osprey models but offers a much lighter alternative.
Despite its lightweight nature, Osprey has spared no effort in its construction. The well-padded back panel, hip belt, and shoulder straps work well with the frame to distribute the load evenly. We found it simple to adjust the torso length to fit correctly. Environmentally friendly and durable materials are used in its construction too, which we love and is certainly an added bonus.
There are many storage options, including compression straps, lash points, daisy chain webbing, trekking pole and ice axe holders, and ten external pockets. Accessibility is easy, with options to reach the main pocket through a side zip, the top lid, or the zip on the sleeping bag compartment at the bottom. Extras include a rain cover, hydration system compartment, and built-in whistle. This is a good choice if you are looking for a lighter backpack to carry all your camping equipment comfortably.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Load | Measurements | Torso Length |
Small/ Medium | 46 liters
2807 cubic inches | 1.9 kg
4.4 lbs | 9.1 – 15.9 kg
20 – 35 lbs | 74 x 40 x 30 cm
29.1 x 15.7 x 11.8 inches
| 40.5 – 53 cm
16 - 21 inches |
Large/ Extra Large | 48 liters
2929 cubic inches | 2.1 kg
4.6 lbs
| 9.1 – 15.9 kg
20 – 35 lbs | 79 x 40 x 30 cm
31.1 x 15.7 x 11.8 inches | 40.5 – 53 cm
16 - 21 inches |
Osprey Aether Plus 70 - Best Large Capacity Backpack for Men
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Lots of storage
- Comfortable to carry
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Heavy
- Water pockets are not easy to use
See the Osprey Aether Plus 70 in more detail:
We loved this pack! The Osprey Aether Plus 70 is the perfect backpack for carrying heavy loads over several days, offering outstanding comfort. Its adjustable, well-padded shoulder straps, along with a padded lumbar pad and a die-cut foam back panel, ensure a comfortable fit. The hip belt is easy to adjust and comes with generous padding, and the frame efficiently distributes the load between the shoulders and hips.
We found that accessing your gear is straightforward, with a full-length curved zip on the main pocket, as well as the usual top access and another zip on the sleeping bag compartment at the bottom. This backpack also has eight additional pockets of various sizes, plus several straps for attaching extra equipment.
Constructed from durable, hardwearing nylon, it’s built to last. The included rain cover adds an extra layer of protection against wet weather.
We found that on one of our most recent backpacking trips in Lassen Volcanic that this pack handled exceptionally well. We loved that it’s designed to carry your gear comfortably, perfect for extended backcountry hikes or leisurely walks where you might want a few extra comforts.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Load | Measurements | Torso Length |
Small/ Medium | 68 liters
4150 cubic inches
| 2.5 kg
5.6 lbs | 14 – 27 kg
30 - 60 lbs
| 79 x 38 x 36 cm
31.1 x 14.9 x 14.2 inches
| 43 – 53 cm
17 – 21 inches
|
Large/ Extra Large | 70 liters
4272 cubic inches
| 2.8 kg
6.2 lbs
| 14 – 27 kg
30 - 60 lbs
| 84 x 38 x 36 cm
33.1 x 14.9 x 14.2 inches
| 48 - 58.5 cm
19 - 23 inches
|
Gregory Paragon 58
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight
- Rain cover included
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Can be uncomfortable when carrying a full load
See the Gregory Paragon 58 in more detail:
The Gregory Paragon 58 is one of the lightest backpacks available that is practical for backpacking. It is comfortable to carry with a wishbone alloy frame and a fiberglass cross-stay for stability, which are some of the reasons why we loved this pack in our tests.
Its back panel is designed to be both flexible and breathable. The pack offers adjustability in the torso length, hip belt, and shoulder straps through a user-friendly Velcro system. This all adds to its comfort, which was really evident to us.
This backpack has an easily accessible main compartment and numerous external pockets, straps, lash points, and compression straps. This backpack has features like a rain cover and a sunglasses holder, which are rare in lightweight backpacks. Although it might get uncomfortable when fully packed, the Gregory Paragon 58 is an excellent choice for hiking adventures.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Load | Measurements | Torso Length |
Small/ Medium | 58 liters
3,539 cubic inches | 1.6 kg
3.5lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs | 74 x 37 x 26 cm
29 x 14.6 x 10.2 inches
| 38.1 – 48.3 cm
15 – 19 inches
|
Medium/Large | 58 liters
3,539 cubic inches | 1.2 kg
2.6 lbs | 26 kg
57 lbs | 79 x 37 x 26 cm
31 x 14.6 x 10.2 inches
| 45.7 – 55.9 cm
18 – 22 inches
|
Gregory Baltoro 65
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Comfortable to carry heavy loads
- Excellent breathability
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- It’s heavier than some comparable models
- Water bottles can easily fall out of the holder
See the Gregory Baltoro 65 in more detail:
The Gregory Baltoro 65 backpack stands out to us from our tests as one of our top choices for carrying heavy gear, thanks to its design that prioritizes comfort. Its shoulder straps and hip belt are engineered to move with you, while the alloy wishbone frame and fiberglass cross-stay ensure stability and balanced weight distribution.
The backpack offers multiple adjustment points for the torso length, hip belt, and shoulder straps, enabling a custom fit that enhances comfort during extended hikes. Gregory has made this backpack using both durable and sustainable materials – which we love to see. It provides generous storage capacity, including a large main compartment, a dedicated sleeping bag compartment, and ten additional pockets for organized storage.
This backpack has all the necessary features, including a rain cover and sunglasses holder. It has excellent breathability, and the fabric has been treated with Polygiene Stays Fresh Technology. Overall, the Gregory Baltoro 65 is a practical, feature-rich backpack, which we have found to be perfect for lengthy hiking excursions.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Load | Measurements | Torso Length |
Small | 65 liters
3966.5 cubic inches
| 2.14 kg
4.7 lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 34 x 79 x 34 cm
13.4 x 31 x 13.4 inches
| 40.6 – 48.3 cm
16 – 19 inches
|
Medium | 65 liters
3966.5 cubic inches
| 2.23 kg
4.9 lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 34 x 81 x 34 cm
13.4 x 31.9 x 13.4 inches
| 43.2 – 53.3 cm
17 – 21 inches
|
Large | 65 liters
3966.5 cubic inches
| 2.38 kg
5.2 lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 34 x 84 x 34 cm
13.4 x 33 x 13.4 inches
| 45.7 – 55.9 cm
18 – 22 inches
|
Big Agnes Parkview 63
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Lots of storage
- Lightweight for a big backpack
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- No zip to access the main compartment
- No rain cover
See the Big Agnes Parkview 63 in more detail:
We think the Big Agnes Parkview 63 is an excellent choice for hikers embarking on multiday backcountry trips with a preference for carrying ample equipment. It features numerous large pockets, two rows of daisy-chain webbing, bungee cord loops, and zig-zag compression straps for extensive gear organization.
While the lid and hip belts are detachable for weight reduction, the backpack remains surprisingly light for its size. The backpack is constructed from durable materials, with high-quality zippers and strategic padding.
Although you don’t get a rain cover with this backpack, we have included it because it has a very effective water-resistant coating. However, we recommend investing in a rain cover if you expect more than light showers.
The internal frame is designed to evenly distribute weight across your hips and shoulders, improving carrying comfort. From our tests, we found it to do just that – it’s really comfortable! Available in two large sizes, the Big Agnes Parkview 63 offers easy adjustability to accommodate various body shapes and sizes.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Load | Measurements | Torso Length |
Medium | 63 + 10 liters
3844.5 + 610 cubic inches | 1.64 kg
3.10 lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 74 x 15 x 28 x 24 cm
29 x 6 x 11 x 9.5 inches
| 46 – 51 cm
18 – 20 inches
|
Large | 63 + 10 liters | 1.84 kg
4.1 lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 79 x15 x 28 x 24 cm
31 x 6 x 11 x 9.5 inches
| 51 – 56 cm
20 – 22 inches |
Osprey Aether 65
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Comfortable to carry
- Plenty of storage options
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Heavy
- Water pockets are not easy to use
Like all Osprey backpacks, we found the Aether 65 is well-made and practical. If the Atmos 65 AG is more than you want to pay and the Aether Plus 70 is bigger than you need, then you should consider this backpack. It has the typical Osprey frame that distributes the weight evenly. It is easy to adjust, and there is plenty of padding in all the necessary places.
The main compartment is a generous size with a full-length curved zipper so you can get to all your gear quickly. You get another five pockets and plenty of loops and straps for organizing your equipment.
The water pockets are dual-access and easy to reach, but we did find getting a bottle back into the pocket can be difficult. The materials used in this backpack’s construction are all high quality and durable, with a rain cover included for extra protection from wet weather.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Load | Measurements | Torso Length |
Small/Medium | 65 liters
3967 cubic inches | 2.23 kg
4.9 lbs
| 14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 lbs | 80 x 40 x 28 cm
31.5 x 15.7 x 11 inches
| 43 - 53 cm
17 – 21 inches
|
Large/Extra Large | 68 liters
4,150 cubic inches
| 2.3 kg
4.95 lbs
| 14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 lbs
| 85 x 40 x 28 cm
33.5 x 15.7 x 11 inches | 48 - 58.5 cm
19 - 23 inches
|
The 3 Best Waterproof Backpacks for Women
While most backpacks can be used or are intended to be unisex, some manufacturers do tailor their backpacks specifically for women. Typical adaptations are shoulder straps that are an S-shape and hip belts that curve more. Torso lengths can be shorter, and the main pack doesn’t come up as high. These are our recommendations for the best waterproof backpacks for women.
Granite Gear Women Blaze 60 - Best for Women
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Light frame
- Wide range of sizes and adjustability
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Poor breathability
- No rain cover included
The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is a very popular backpack for good reason – and we loved it too. Granite Gear’s innovative materials and design have resulted in a lightweight pack that comfortably supports a full load without sacrificing quality.
The pack has actually been updated since our original test, so we got hold of the updated pack to make sure it still stands up as highly in our review as it did originally. The main areas that have been updated on this pack are when it comes to the breathability. Granite Gear has increased the areas in which air can flow around – we found this to be a noticeable improvement from it’s predecessor.
Its other great improvement is in the level of weight it can carry. It is both lightweight and able to carry very heavy loads. We loved how this tested in terms of versatility – as it works great with lighter loads just as well as heavier.
The custom nylon fabric used is both durable and tear-resistant, with reinforced materials in areas prone to wear. The backpack has a large storage capacity with an easily accessible main compartment, thanks to a full-length zip and a removable, adaptable lid.
We also loved that the six external pockets are larger than usual, and the nine compression straps – three on the front and three on each side – stabilize the load and facilitate attaching extra gear. Adjusting the torso and hip belt can be fiddly but leads to a snug, custom fit. It comes in a range of sizes, with two specifically designed for women. The women’s models are smaller and include shoulder straps and a hip belt shaped for the female body. It has no rain cover, but the fabric has a highly water-resistant DWR coating.
It would still be advisable to buy a rain cover, though. The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is an excellent backpack for any hiker, especially for women.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Load | Measurements | Torso Length |
Women Short | 60 liters
3660 cubic inches
| 1.31 kg
2.9 lbs | 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 59.7 x 33 x 20.3 cm
23.5 x 13 x 8 inches
| 38.1 – 45.7 cm
15 – 18 inches
|
Women Regular | 60 liters
3660 cubic inches
| 1.36 kg
3 lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 59.7 x 33 x 20.3 cm
23.5 x 13 x 8 inches
| 45.7 – 53.3 cm
18 – 21 inches
|
Unisex Short | 60 liters
3660 cubic inches
| 1.31 kg
2.9 lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 59.7 x 33 x 20.3 cm
23.5 x 13 x 8 inches
| 38.1 – 45.7 cm
15 – 18 inches
|
Unisex Regular | 60 liters
3660 cubic inches
| 1.36 kg
3 lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 59.7 x 33 x 20.3 cm
23.5 x 13 x 8 inches
| 45.7 – 53.3 cm
18 – 21 inches
|
Unisex Long | 60 liters
3660 cubic inches
| 1.41 kg
3.1 lbs
| 22.7 kg
50 lbs
| 59.7 x 33 x 20.3 cm
23.5 x 13 x 8 inches
| 53.3 – 60.9 cm
21 – 24 inches
|
The North Face Women's Terra 55 - Best Lighter Backpack for Women
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Plenty of storage with 7 pockets
- Comfortable to carry
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Torso length isn’t adjustable.
- Rain cover not included.
The North Face Women’s Terra 55 has the OPTIFIT suspension system that gives shock-absorbing support. The addition of the Dyno Lift System allows for fine-tuning the load lifters, which we found to be a nice feature during our tests. This is complemented by aluminum stays and a foam back panel, which work together to evenly distribute weight across the hips and shoulders.
Both the hip belt and shoulder straps are designed with ample padding and are easy to adjust, contributing to the backpack’s overall comfort. There are lots of storage options, with seven easily accessible, generously sized pockets, along with numerous straps and loops for gear attachment. Although the torso length is not adjustable, the two available sizes span a 12 cm (5 inches) range.
With a 55-liter capacity, this backpack is large enough for multiday hikes, offering as much organized storage as larger models. Its design effectively balances the load, ensuring comfort.
The molded hip belt and specially cut shoulder straps are tailored specifically to the female form. Although you would have to buy a rain cover separately, they are not very expensive. However, this is an excellent option if you are looking for a lighter backpack to take on a hiking trip.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Measurements | Torso Length |
Extra Small / Small | 55 liters
3356 cubic inches | 1.6 kg
3.9 lbs
| 53 x 34 x 25 cm
20.9 x 13.4 x 9.8 inches
| 35.5 – 43 cm
14 – 17 inches |
Medium / Large | 55 liters
3356 cubic inches | 1.7 kg
3.12 lbs
| 57 x 34 x 26 cm
22.4 x 13.4 x 10.2 inches
| 40.5 – 47.7 cm
16 – 19 inches |
Deuter Air Contact Core 60+10 - Best Large Capacity Backpack for Women
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Comfortable with lots of padding
- Lots of adaptable storage
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Heavy
- Only two sizes
See the Dueter Aircontact Core 60+10 in more detail:
We love this pack! The design of the Deuter Aircontact Core 60+10 backpack clearly reflects a focus on practicality and carrying comfort. Adjustable straps allow for optimal load height, while the frame ensures weight is evenly distributed between shoulders and hips.
The women’s version, slimline in design, features hip fins contoured for the female body. Ample padding on the back, shoulder straps, and hip fins which, through our tests, we found make it exceptionally comfortable.
There are eight external pockets and a full-length zip for easy main compartment access. The two hip belt pockets and three exterior mesh pockets offer ample gear storage, and the expandable collar increases capacity by an extra ten liters.
The materials are both water-resistant and breathable, and a rain cover is included. While the generous padding does add weight compared to similar models, the enhanced comfort it provides justifies the additional load.
Sizes | Capacity | Weight | Load | Measurements | Torso Length |
Women
(Slim Line) | 60 + 10 liters
4,272 cubic inches | 2.15 kg
4.7 lbs | 15 - 20 kg
33 – 44 lbs | 82 x 31 x 26 cm
32.3 x 12.2 x 10.2 inches | 35 - 56 cm
13.8 – 22.1 inches |
Unisex
(Regular) | 60 + 10 liters
4,272 cubic inches | 2.31 kg
5.1 lbs | 15 - 20 kg
33 – 44 lbs | 82 x 32 x 26 cm
32.3 x 12.6 x 10.2 inches | 42 - 62 cm
16.5 – 24.4 inches
|
Waterproof Rain Backpack Buying Guide
There are many options when it comes to choosing a backpack, and it can be a significant investment, so it is necessary to consider how you will be using your backpack and what features you consider essential.
Choosing the right size and fit is important, but other aspects of backpacking need consideration. Whatever your requirements, these are the key features to consider before buying a rain backpack.
Material
Backpacks are usually made of nylon or polyester. Polyester is cheaper and more water resistant, but it is less durable. Nylon is the most commonly used textile and you will usually see the denier specified.
The higher the denier, the thicker and more durable the material. However, the higher denier fabrics are also heavier. A good compromise many manufacturers make is to have heavier denier nylon on the areas of the backpack that are subject to the most wear and tear and use lower denier nylon on the rest of the pack.
Breathability
Backpacks are in close contact with your back, shoulders, and hips. Padding is necessary to make carrying comfortable. This can lead to sweat building up in these areas.
As well as being unpleasantly clammy when you are wearing the backpack, the damp sweatiness will be cold and unpleasant when you take a break. Back panels with air channels or perforations help to increase breathability. Covering padded areas in mesh that wicks away the moisture also helps.
Waterproofing
Most hikers expect to be walking through the rain at some point. Having some degree of water resistance in a backpack is desirable. Most backpack materials will have a DWR (durable water repellent) coating.
Some DWRs are more effective than others, but none will keep water out entirely if you are hiking in heavy weather. You have two options to ensure your backpack’s contents stay dry: a pack liner or a rain cover. You can buy a pack liner or use a bin bag.
However, this isn’t a great solution as it makes it difficult to access your gear without taking everything out. A rain cover is a much more practical solution. Some backpacks come with a rain cover and may even have a pocket specifically for one.
If not, they are cheap and readily available to buy. Double-check the measurements of your backpack, but most rain covers can accommodate a range of sizes.
Dimensions
The dimensions of a backpack are important. Some backpacks are shorter but wider, while others are narrower but longer. The wider packs will not be comfortable if you have a narrow back.
On the other hand, if you have a wider back, the slimline backpacks will not feel good. Some walkers don’t mind a backpack that comes up behind their head, while others find this unpleasant.
Knowing the dimension measurement is also helpful if you need to fit something specific in your rucksack, for example, a bear canister. If you plan on taking a backpack on a plane, you also need to know if it is small enough to be classed as a carry-on bag.
Fit
Everyone’s body shape is different, so most backpacks are adjustable. The length of the torso is one of the crucial measurements to check. You must measure from the C7 vertebrae in your neck down to your iliac crest.
You can locate the C7 vertebrae by bending your head forward and finding the vertebrae that sticks out at the bottom of your neck. Placing a belt across the top of your hipbones will give you the line of your iliac crest.
Manufacturers use various different systems to adjust the torso length, some simpler than others. When you are changing the fit of your backpack, you need to have a load in it, as an empty pack will sit differently from a full one.
Hip belt and shoulder straps can also be adjustable on some models. Once the fit is adjusted to your measurements, the hip belt and shoulder straps can be tightened or slackened once the backpack is fastened. There are usually load lifters on the top of the backpack to get it set to the correct angle and sometimes stabiliser straps on the hip belt that also adjust the set of the pack.
Storage
Being able to access the items you want when you want them is important. While having an opening at the top of the backpack is traditional, most manufacturers now include a long zip on the body of the pack so you can access all of the main compartment. You will often have the bottom of the main compartment separated with a removable divider to create a space for a sleeping bag with another zippered opening.
Hip belts typically have pockets on them. These can be small or big enough to hold a camera, smartphone, or water bottle. They are often made of mesh, which is great for holding lots of things but provides no rain protection. Fabric pockets with a zip are not so easy to access, especially with cold fingers or if you are wearing gloves.
Most backpacks have water bottle holders. Some have dual access, while others are difficult to reach when wearing the backpack. Ideally, your backpack will have a pocket for valuables, maybe with a keychain.
An outside mesh pocket where you can put anything wet and leave it to dry is handy. How many pockets you need is up to each person and how you like to pack and access your gear. However, it is useful to have plenty of options.
Comfort
If you are planning a multiday hike, then comfort is paramount. Most backpacks have padding on the hip belt, back panel, and shoulder straps. Having more padding makes the backpack heavier, but as it makes the load easier to carry, it is worth the extra weight. Some hip belts and shoulder straps are designed to move or pivot with your body’s movements.
The frame used to construct the backpack is also important. You need a backpack that transfers the weight efficiently between your shoulders and hips. Frames can be internal or external and work with the suspension system.
Manufacturers all have their own versions, but they tend to work on similar principles. To find which suits you it would be advisable to try a backpack on with some weight in it.
Features
Having extra features is always welcome. You will often find backpacks designed to work with hydration systems, but they usually need to be brought separately.
Compression straps are another common feature. Not only do these stabilize your load, but they can also be used to attach equipment to the outside of your pack.
There are often loops, straps, and daisy chain webbing strips that are also used to fix items to your pack. Some backpacks have attachment points specifically designed for trekking poles, ice axes, or even sunglasses.
The lid of a backpack can sometimes be removed. This can be a weight-reduction measure, but sometimes they can be converted into a small pack. Floating lids allow you to pack more into the main compartment. They often have a spindrift collar that extends if you need the extra space. Ideally, it will still be possible to completely secure the top opening of your pack even if the lid is removed.
Durability
If you are investing in a backpack, you want it to be durable. As well as looking at the materials used in the backpack’s construction and checking online reviews, you should also see if the manufacturer has a repair service available. A good warranty that covers the backpack for its lifetime is also reassuring.
Sustainability
Hikers appreciate the beauty of nature and usually are concerned by the damage being done to our environment. Manufacturers of backpacks are aware of these concerns, and most are taking steps to increase the sustainability of their products. Many use recycled fabrics, and having Bluesign approval is a good indication that they are taking steps to improve their manufacturing processes.
How Big Does My Backpack Need to Be?
No one wants to find themselves with a backpack that is too big to be practical, but neither do you want one that is too small. Backpacks usually have two measurements to indicate how much they can carry – capacity and load.
The capacity is how much space there is in the rucksack. The load is how much weight the rucksack can accommodate. The capacity of a backpack includes the various external pockets as well as the main compartment. If you have a floating lid and a spindrift collar, the capacity can be increased, usually by ten liters.
Because backpacks have loops and straps that can be used to attach equipment to the outside of the pack, the weight of the load the backpack is designed for is also important. Technological advances mean that camping equipment can now be extremely light, so you can take more gear without overloading yourself. Bear in mind that if you are hiking in colder conditions, you will need more clothing and equipment.
Weekend Trip (1-3 nights)
If you are planning a weekend hike, then you will need a pack with a capacity of between thirty and fifty liters. This will give you enough room for the essentials you need to enjoy your trip without having a heavy pack to carry.
Multiday Trip (3-7 nights)
A fifty to seventy-five liter backpack would be suitable for a more extended trip. This gives you the capacity for the food and water you will need for your trip. This size backpack should have plenty of padding and a well-designed suspension system to make sure you are comfortable while walking.
It is usually best to err on the side of caution and to go with a bigger pack. The larger backpacks have compression straps to stabilize smaller loads, and they usually have more padding. The smaller backpacks save weight by having less padding, as it is not needed for lighter loads. Having a larger pack also means you take a few luxuries along on your trip!
Conclusion
Hiking is a rewarding experience, and having the right backpack can make all the difference in how much you enjoy your journey. The best backpacks blend comfort, durability, and practical design. From adjustable fittings and ample storage to specialized features for women and innovative material use, these backpacks will help you enjoy your backpacking adventures.
With so many choices, deciding which backpack to invest in is not easy. This article aims to help you find the backpack that best suits your needs. Ultimately, the ideal backpack is one that offers comfort on the trail and lets you enjoy your hike.
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