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The 12 Best Hiking Backpacks for Outdoorsmen
Slip one of these on before seeking adventure.
While we’re all about bringing back the backpack for guys, your typical Jansport simply will not do when you’re hiking. For one, there’s not a whole lot of room for all the gear you’ll need in a rucksack, and for two, they’re probably not the most durable option when you’ll be battling the elements. Instead, opt for a hiking-specific backpack.
Hiking backpacks all have a few common features. For one, they’re durable as hell, often made out of carbon fiber or other rugged material that won’t tear or flood your gear with water.
They hold a hell of a lot more than your typical bag, too—their carrying capacity can range from 30 to 50 to even 70 liters. That’s a lot of room.
And then there are the straps. As you wander the wild, you’re definitely not going to want something that can slip off. Many hiking backpacks have straps not just for your shoulders but your chest and waist as well for an extra-secure fit.
Read more: Best Hiking Gear for Men
Now, when it comes to choosing your specific pack, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. We encourage considering what sort of adventure you’re about to head out on. For example, if you're going for a week-long trek in the woods, you’ll probably need a lot more carrying capacity than you might think. But if it’s just a weekend getaway, you might just need something that could carry 35 liters. Like you would for your hiking boots, always take your adventure into consideration.
If you’re trekking for long lengths of time without breaking, you may also want to consider a pack with a hydration reservoir, which has a tube that lets you drink from it on the go. Once again, you’ll have to take into consideration how long you’ll be on the trail—you may need a bigger reservoir.
And lastly, the best packs for hiking are those that are broken in. If you’re getting ready for an epic adventure, take a weekend and head out on a simpler trail just to get a good feel for the pack to make sure it holds up on a hike. You won’t want to regret your choice later.
Check out the 12 best hiking backpacks below and pick one up before wilding out.
Read More: Best Camping Gear for Men
Best Backpacks for Men
- Best Overall Hiking Backpack: Mammut Ducan 24
- Best Lightweight Hiking Backpack: 4Monster Hiking Daypack
- Best Backpack for Camping: Mystery Ranch Scree 32 Backpack
- Best Technical Hiking Backpack: Arc'Teryx Aerios 15 Backpack
- Best Hydration Backpack: CamelBack Arete 18 Hydration Backpack
- Best Day Hiking Backpack: Cotopaxi Batac 16L Pack
Weight: 13 ounces
Capacity: 10.65 liters
They call this behemoth “virtually puncture-proof,” and we believe it. This hyper-durable bag even comes with an integrated cord for tying to a fixed object.
4Monster Hiking Daypack
4Monster Hiking Daypack
Weight: 4 ounces
Capacity: 16 liters
An all-around awesome, budget-friendly, small hiking backpack option. It’s super packable, collapsing into a small sack on the side of your hand.
Hyperlite 4400 Southwest Backpack
Hyperlite 4400 Southwest Backpack
Weight: 2.45 pounds
Capacity: 70 liters (medium)
This hiking backpack is not made for a hike so much as an all-out adventure. It holds up to 70 liters of gear, and the three external pockets are made extra tough to protect the gear you need quick access to.
N Nevo Rhino 45L / 50L Internal Frame Backpack
N Nevo Rhino 45L / 50L Internal Frame Backpack
Weight: 2.65 pounds
Capacity: 45/50 liters
The best hiking backpack under $100 still has a ton to offer. Though not as adjustable as other options, this pack still soars with a more rigid design that’s secure and holds a very solid 50 liters of stuff.
The North Face Basin 18 Daypack
Weight: 1 pound and 5 ounces
Capacity: 20 liters
The Face Basin 18 thinks has a stash for hiking poles that comes in clutch when you need to grab something from your stash. It's water resistant with a few different organizational pockets. Plus, it'll look stylish as hell on any trail.
Mystery Ranch Scree 32 Backpack
Mystery Ranch Scree 32 Backpack
Weight: 2.86 pounds
Capacity: 30 liters
Fit around a unique tri-zipper construction, this backpack from Mystery Ranch allows you to easily grab and replace items in your pack. It also comes with a removable waist strap, so you can distribute weight across your body when needed.
Arc'teryx Aerios 15 Backpack Men's
Arc'teryx Aerios 15 Backpack Men's
Weight: 1.85 pounds
Capacity: 15 liters
The Aerios 15 holds your entire day: water, snacks, and layers comfortably. It features pockets on the shoulder straps for your phone or quick-grab items, while the sides provide secure, accessible storage. It's super durable to withstand wind, snow, and rain with extra padding for a comfortable carry.
Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack
Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack
Weight: 1.98 pounds
Capacity: 22 liters
If you're looking for one of the best in the game, consider an Osprey hiking backpack. This one has external side pockets for easy access and chest straps that keep you in proper posture along the trail.
CamelBak Arete 18 Hydration Backpack
CamelBak Arete 18 Hydration Backpack
Weight: 11 ounces
Capacity: 16.5 liters
CamelBak packs are great because you can leave the clunky water bottle behind and still stay hydrated on the trail. This one can pack a whole lot more than their classic Mule packs, making it a solid option for long hikes when you need to pack backup.
Mammut Ducan 24
Weight: 2 pounds and 0.16 ounces
Capacity: 24 liters
This lightweight hiking backpack is filled to the brim with technical features like side pockets positioned to allow easy access while walking—as well as an air space suspension system that ensures ventilation for unparalleled comfort. No matter what you're looking for, this pack has it.
Cotopaxi Batac 16L Pack
Cotopaxi Batac 16L Pack
Weight: 12 ounces
Capacity: 16 liters
Featuring a durable yet lightweight rip-resistant nylon shell, this backpack from Cotopaxi is great for day hikes. It also has a space for a hydration sleeve, so you can take a drink whenever you need it.
Weight: 2 pounds and 10 ounces (medium)
Capacity: 55 liters (medium)
The best hiking backpack brands are usually the most storied. REI’s own stellar option is perfect for a long weekend or a night in the woods. It has comfy compression straps and a roll-top closure that lets you collapse parts of the bag you’re not using.
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