backpacking trip package

Hiking & backpacking tours

When it comes to immersing yourself in the great outdoors, nothing beats camping in the wilderness beneath a sky full of stars

Have all the fun of an adventurous outdoor experience without any of the organizational hassle by embarking on a hiking backpacking trip through some of the  USA’s most captivating landscapes  – the Intrepid way. Take in the sights of national treasures like  Zion National Park , Joshua Tree National Park, and Olympic National Park during the day, and at night, help your guide set up camp, swap stories with your fellow travelers, and let the sounds of Mother Nature slowly sing you to sleep. Simply put, unforgettable doesn’t even begin to describe it.

Our backpacking trips are all about switching off and getting back to basics. Say goodbye to running water, and hello to cathole toilets! Carrying a backpack loaded with camping gear, personal items and group supplies, you’ll hike through untamed backcountry and set up a new camp each day with your group. Two words: pack light.

Our base camp trips are perfect if you don’t want to lug a backpack around, or if you'd prefer to camp with a few extra creature comforts. After enjoying daily hikes on front country trails, you’ll return to the same campsite each day equipped with proper toilets, showers, bigger tents and a camp kitchen.

If you’re an adventurous type who also likes sleeping on a real mattress (we don't blame you), our hut-to-hut trips could be for you. You’ll still need to carry your backpack as you hike through the backcountry, but you’ll stay in huts each night that range from basic bunkhouses to comfortable motels depending on the trip.

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Leave the busy roads and noisy sounds of everyday life behind as you embark on an adventure through one of the  USA’s  most beloved parks. Brimming with epic natural features,  Yellowstone National Park  boasts landscapes that need to be seen to be believed and luckily for you, you’ll get to see them all on  hikes during the day  before resting your body and camping out under the stars every night. 

If you’re searching for remarkable sights that’ll give your camera its hardest workout yet, then search no longer –  Yosemite National Park’s  North Rim offers all that and so much more. Perfect for both outdoor enthusiasts and hardcore hikers, this trail boasts giant waterfalls, majestic peaks, and flower-filled meadows you’re bound to ooh and ahh over. And at night, set up camp, enjoy a hearty meal, and fall asleep under the night sky’s twinkling stars. 

Picture this: you wake up to the peaceful sounds of Mother Nature and have your morning coffee surrounded by spring-fed creeks, huge canyons and colorful cliffs. Spend six days hiking in  Utah ’s most iconic national parks and watch these otherworldly landscapes come alive. Trek through Bryce Canyon’s awe-inspiring “hoodoos” and natural amphitheaters, wade through the rushing waters of Zion’s slot canyons, and explore the labyrinth of potholes, arches, and grottos in the dreamy Escalante. 

Explore one of the most beautiful sections of the Appalachian Trail on a three-day backcountry adventure through the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll journey deep into the wilderness of the Cradle of Forestry, wind through postcard-perfect grassy meadows and witness the cascades of Looking Glass Falls – maybe jumping in for a swim to cool down. The best part? You’ll camp on the summit of the spectacular Shining Rock and enjoy lunch on huge ledges overlooking the rolling plains of Ivestor Gap.

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Hiking and Camping in Utah

What's the range of backpacking and hiking trips available?

We offer a wide range of all-inclusive backpacking and hiking tours in some of the USA's best national parks and scenic trails. Apart from getting yourself to the meeting point and bringing your personal items, everything is organised and provided for you including an expert hiking guide, permits and fees, meals, and most camping and hiking gear. Our trips range from base camp tours that include easy to moderate day hikes on front country trails to multi-day backpacking or hut-to-hut adventures in high mountains and backcountry routes. 

What do I have to carry when we hike?

On our backpacking and hut-to-hut tours you'll need to carry a backpack that weighs between 25-45 lbs (11-20 kg) depending on the itinerary and season. It'll be loaded will be with your personal items (clothing, camera, toiletries, water bladder, etc), camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc), and a portion of the group's food supplies or camping gear. Base camp tours are a bit different – we'll return to the same campsite each day so you can leave your main bag at camp. You'll still need a small daypack to carry your water bottle, snacks, camera and any other essential items while we're out hiking. 

Should I bring/pack anything special?

We'll provide you with camping gear including a daypack, trekking poles, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad and pillow. Essentials you'll need to bring from home include a three-litre water bladder or bottle, hiking clothes and boots, headlamp, toiletries and medication, camera and any other personal items you might need. Just remember, it's no fun lugging a really heavy bag around so try to pack as light as possible. 

How fit do I need to be to join?

While our range of backpacking and hiking trips differ in difficulty, it is recommended that you have a reasonable level of fitness so that the tour's enjoyable and you can get the most out of your holiday. To do this, try participating in some form of physical activity (such as long walks, running, cycling, etc) at least six weeks out from your trip. It's also a good idea to do some shorter test hikes with a backpack or something similar so you can become comfortable carrying your gear when the trip comes. 

To help you choose the trip with the right level of difficulty, our team will forward an assessment form to you at the time of booking, and we will be open to discussing your choice and making suggestions if need be. You won't be confirmed for the trip until your form has been received and reviewed. 

What sort of safety precautions are taken?

We value the safety of our customers, staff and fellow travellers very highly so you can rest assured that you'll be safe throughout the duration of your trip. Our leaders are well-trained and experienced (as well as insured) and don't cut corners when it comes to the wellbeing and safety of others. This means we only take well-researched trails and listen to all safety warnings when it comes to changing weather conditions. 

Do I need special insurance for backpacking trips?

The short answer is no and yes - you won't need any extra insurance to cover any additional or technical activities that come with a backpacking and hiking trip but you will need to have an insurance policy that covers activities such as hiking and trekking. To make sure you're appropriately covered, we recommend presenting your insurer with the trip's itinerary.

Are backpacking and hiking trips accessible?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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The Best Backpacking Packs for Any Adventure

We spent five months testing the year’s top multiday packs. these 10 rose above the rest..

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Shopping for a multiday pack can be intimidating. Big haulers are often pricey, and the variety of materials and features can be mind-numbing. To help you streamline your shopping, we spent five months putting more than a dozen and a half of this season’s best packs under the microscope—and under a whole lot of weight. These are the packs worth taking home.

At a Glance

• Editor’s Choice: Mystery Ranch Radix 57 ($299)
• Best for Short Overnights: Deuter Aircontact Ultra 35+5 ($240)
• Most Versatile: Sierra Designs Nexus Lite 35-50 ($250)
• Lightest: Black Diamond Betalight 45 ($400)
• Best for Long Trails:  Outdoor Vitals CS40 Ultra ($368)
• Best for First-Timers: Rab Muon 50 ($260)
• Best Organization: Lowe Alpine Yacuri 55 ($320)
• Best for Technical Terrain: Mountain Hardwear Direttissima 55L ($420)
• Most Eco-friendly: Fjällräven Kajka 65 ($375)
• Best for Bigger Bodies: Osprey Rook/Renn 65 EF ($190)

Choosing the Right Backpacking Pack

How we test, meet our testers.

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more .

Editors’ Choice

Mystery ranch radix 57.

$299 at Backcountry (Women’s) $299 at Backcountry (Men’s)

Weight: 3.8 lbs Size: M’s S-XL and W’s XS-L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Superior load carry ⊕ Carrying comfort ⊗ Tiny hydration sleeve

The Radix 57 doesn’t just look sexy with its sleek monochrome fabric and tantalizing, full-length side zipper. It also delivers best-in-class comfort, load carry, and gear access all in a sub-4-pound package—about a pound less than many other packs capable of carrying similar loads. The secret: shaving weight by using space-age materials—not skimping on suspension. On the outside, a strong-but-gossamer 100-denier Robic nylon is reinforced with a grid of ultra-high molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), a uniquely strong and waterproof thread. While the pack itself isn’t seam-taped—and therefore isn’t waterproof—the use of the UHMWPE makes it highly water-resistant as well as abrasion-resistant. “I’ve squeezed under large blow-downs and past grabby bushes and trees,” reports Washington-based tester Matt Wise. “The pack hasn’t been phased.”

On the inside, a 7000-series aerospace-grade aluminum frame keeps loads close to the back. The frame, which is lightbulb-shaped and contoured to match the spine, provides both vertical stability and adequate torsional flex to support a natural gait. Load lifters and a cushy hipbelt further boost comfort. As a result, testers were able to heft up to 50 pounds without soreness. While there are other UHMWPE packs that can carry up to 60 or 70 pounds, most cost twice as much. “It’s the best pack I’ve tested yet,” says Wise. “It’s become my go-to for three- to four-day trips.”

Organization is outstanding for a lightweight pack: an off-center, full-length zipper flays the bag open nearly flat, making gear access and camp setup a breeze. The waist pockets each fit a phone, and large lateral pockets are angled for easy access while hiking. Even better news for weight-conscious hikers: the roomy toplid, compression straps, and frame are all removable, allowing it to function as a breezy overnight pack; the Radix 57 weighs just 3 pounds stripped.

Read our full review to learn more

Best for Short Overnights

Deuter aircontact ultra 35+5.

$240 at Amazon

Weight: 2.5 lbs Size: M’s and W’s, two sizes each

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Breathable ⊕ Good load-carrying capacity ⊗ Small pockets

The Aircontact Ultra has been an outstanding bag for years—we gave the 50+5 an Editor’s Choice Award in 2022 —thanks to its low weight, well-rounded features, and impressive durability. But the new 35+5 is a whole different beast. This pack sports a redesigned suspension that’s lighter and more breathable—and yet still more robust than some others in this weight range. The pack’s W-shaped, 2-millimeter spring-steel frame is molded to follow the S-curve of the back. This 3D contouring enhances its strength, letting us carry up to 25 pounds with ease. While the bag is relatively narrow, the 40-liter rating feels spot-on; we were able to fit a lightweight overnight kit and still had room to spare.

Generous sacral padding prevents lower back soreness, and molded foam in the backpanel permits some airflow—a feature tester Robin Mino was happy to have on a weekend trip to Colorado’s James Lake Wilderness in 70-degree heat. She also appreciated the generous stretch-mesh dorsal pocket, which allowed her to stuff layers quickly as the mercury rose.

Two small hipbelt pockets were adequate for snacks—but not a phone—and the removable toplid easily held a hat, gloves, and sunscreen. This toploader offers no bottom- or side-zipper access to the main packbag, but the minimalists among us didn’t mind. “The organizational layout is simple, which made it easy to pack overnight gear for quick trips around the Colorado Front Range,” reports packs category manager Corey Buhay. So far, she says, the material—a 175-denier polyamide with a UHMWPE ripstop grid—shows no signs of wear, even while scraping past boulders and talus in Colorado’s Eldorado Springs Canyon. (Note: Deuter’s use of “Ultra” in the pack name is unrelated to the popular ultralight material of the same name.)

Most Versatile

Sierra designs nexus lite 35-50.

$250 at Sierra Designs

Weight: 3 lbs (multiday configuration), 2.4 lbs (daypack configuration) Size: Unisex, S/M and M/L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Modular components ⊕ Good durability ⊗ Minimalist hipbelt ⊗ No hydration hose port ⊗ Zipperless entry can be fiddly

Plenty of packs expand or contract by a few liters. Few are capable of full metamorphosis. Enter the Sierra Designs Nexus. Simply snap on a removable, stuff-sack-like garment bag (which acts as a roomy external pocket) and toplid, and this 35-liter daypack transforms into a fully fledged 50-liter overnight bag. Stretch-mesh side pockets, a hydration pouch, and hipbelt pockets made it easy to grab water and gear in either configuration. Better yet, the Nexus felt comfortable at both day-trip and overnight weights up to 25 pounds. Thanks to the roll-top, which expands for bigger loads, Backpacker Assistant Editor Emma Veidt was able to carry her sleeping bag, pad, stove, tent, and layers without issue. Credit goes to a Y-shaped aluminum frame. The system transfers weight to the lightly padded hipbelt while allowing shoulders to rotate naturally with each arm swing. “It was so comfortable—no pack sway,” said Veidt after an Appalachian Trail section hike. And when she found herself in need of an afternoon nap, she was able to use the removable, water-resistant garment bag—which has a soft inner liner—as a backcountry pillow.

Durability was impressive, not only because the pack utilizes a DWR-coated, 200-denier recycled nylon, but also because zippers, a notorious weak spot, are absent from this buckle-only pack. The only place we missed the zips? On the hipbelt pockets, where stretch-mesh flaps fit snacks and a headlamp, but provide limited security.

Black Diamond Betalight UL 45

$400 at Black Diamond

Weight: 1.9 lbs (1.1 lbs stripped) Size: Unisex; XS-L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Plentiful organization ⊕ Durable materials ⊗ Subpar breathability ⊗ Price

The Beta Light UL was already one of the lightest bags we tested this season. But, thanks to a removable hipbelt, frame, and backpanel, it can get even lighter. At just 1 lb. 2 oz. fully stripped, this sleek fastpacking pack quickly became our go-to for speedy, big-mileage missions.

The Beta Light UL owes its gravity-defying weight to a minimalist layout and ultralight materials. The frame is comprised of dual aluminum stays, which transfer loads of up to 35 pounds to a lightly padded hipbelt. A closed-cell foam panel helps protect the back from pointy cargo (though it isn’t very breathable). Even with the stays removed, the pack was able to support about 25 pounds with ease, thanks to a broad, vest-style harness that spreads weight across the chest and shoulders. A toploading entry—which closes via a cinch and buckle—provides the only way in or out of the main pack bag. However, generous chest pockets kept essential sundries close so we never had to go digging.

While most ultralight packs call it quits at three pockets, the Beta Light UL sports a 3-liter internal hydration sleeve, three chest pockets, and two hipbelt pockets, each big enough to fit a phone or camera.

Ultra 200—a superlight, waterproof laminate fabric—covers the majority of the bag. Taped seams make it fully waterproof. Over four months of testing, the Ultra 200 defied torrential rain on foraging trips in Alaska as well as scratches from pine branches and sharp scree. Even the finely woven nylon stretch mesh on the lateral bottle pockets and dorsal shove-it pocket escaped all but one small hole over the course of the season.

Best for Long Trails

Outdoor vitals cs40 ultra.

$368 at Outdoor Vitals

Weight: 1.7 lbs Size: Unisex, S-L torso and S-L belt

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Comfortable carry ⊕ Carbon frame ⊗ Subpar organization ⊗ Minimal padding

Thru-hikers, add this one to your vision board. At well under two pounds, the CS40 is lighter than many top ultralight packs. But unlike many of its contemporaries, this baby comes equipped with load-lifters, a real hipbelt, and a full frame. The dual carbon stays add just an ounce each—but boost the CS40’s load-carrying capacity to 35 pounds. Even more impressive: pack category manager Corey Buhay found the CS40 remained comfortable even fully loaded, thanks to the hipbelt’s dual adjustment points and broad hip wings. While the belt’s minimalist padding left our more bony-hipped testers sore, most found it perfectly contoured to prevent hot spots, even after sweaty, 20-mile days in the Appalachians.

A U-shaped foam back panel provides targeted padding. While the close-to-body fit did inhibit breathability, it also prevented pack sway. “I could cinch down the main compartment and not feel any wobble during summit trips,” says Colorado tester Robin Mino after a season of bagging Fourteeners.

Organization was decent. The main bag is sufficiently cavernous to fit a bear canister while maintaining room for the rest of your kit, and the roll-top adds about 10 extra liters fully extended. Two small zippered hip pockets fit snacks and sunscreen, and each side pocket (angled for accessibility while hiking) fits a Nalgene. The dorsal stretch pocket was perfect for stuffing wet layers. While the pack isn’t seam-taped and won’t keep your gear safe during extended downpours, the waterproof Ultra 200 fabric and rolltop design kept gear dry through both light rain and wet bushwhacks. Both the abrasion-resistant Ultra 200 and accessory stretch mesh ended the season without a scratch.

Best for First-Timers

Rab muon 50.

$260 at Backcountry (Women’s) $260 at Backcountry (Men’s)

Weight: 2.3 lbs Size: M’s and W’s, one size each

Pros and Cons ⊕ Comfortable carry ⊕ Huge pockets ⊕ Relatively lightweight ⊗ Fiddly sternum straps ⊗ No hipbelt pockets

After five months of testing across three different states, the Rab Muon 50 became our go-to recommendation for first-time backpackers thanks to a near-perfect balance of comfort, weight, features, and price.

For starters, the aluminum perimeter frame is sturdy enough to transfer loads up to 35 pounds to the hip-hugging waist belt. Both the wide hip wings and contoured lumbar pad are cushioned with a plush EVA foam. Editor Zoe Gates reported no chafing or hot spots, even after a 35-mile thru-hike of North Carolina’s Art Loeb Trail. Deep channels in the foam back panel helped maintain airflow and breathability on sweaty uphills.

Organization is unfussy. A surprisingly large main packbag accommodates three days of food, overnight gear, and a bear canister. The two enormous side pockets are accessible while hiking, and a large dorsal shove-it sleeve fits a day’s food and layers. We could stuff a hat, gloves, and snacks in the roomy toplid and a three-liter reservoir in the hydration sleeve. (Ding: Though the vest-style harness sports two zippered chest pouches big enough to squeeze a smartphone, there were no hip pockets.) The simple layout also keeps the weight low—a major bonus for first-timers.

The main pack body material, a 100-denier high-tenacity ripstop nylon, should be durable enough to survive the beginner years. Despite getting thrown on rocks in Colorado and shoved through rhododendron thickets in North Carolina, our test pack remained scratch-free. And at just $260, the Muon is more affordable than most of the packs on this list—giving the backpacking-curious one less reason to stay on the fence.

Best Organization

Lowe alpine yacuri 55.

$320 at Rab

Weight: 4.2 lbs Size: M’s & W’s, one size each

Pros and Cons ⊕ Plentiful pockets ⊕ Easy gear access ⊕ Included raincover ⊗ Limited load-carrying capacity for a pack of this weight

Most of the frustration of backpacking usually arises during points of transition: starting, stopping, digging for gear, packing, and unpacking. The Yacuri 55 is designed to eliminate much of that irritation.

The key is a streamlined organization system. Equipped with both hipbelt and chest pockets, this pack is built to keep you moving. Each hip pocket fits a full baggie of trail mix, and the roomy toplid boasts three zippered compartments. Stretch-mesh side pockets and a shove-it sleeve facilitate gear-stuffing on-the-go. And, thanks to the bottom-access zipper and a U-shaped dorsal zipper, camp setup and breakdown are a breeze.

The pack is so comfortable that testers rarely had to take it off. An adjustable backpanel makes it easy to dial in fit, and the 6-mm aluminum wire frame braces loads up to 30 pounds, according to tester Jim Pierce, who took the Yacuri on a 45-mile backpack of Idaho’s Centennial Trail. The hipbelt was thickly padded, though some testers reported that the contouring was a little off, causing chafing.

The pack comes with an included rain cover, but we rarely needed it; the DWR coating repelled water during both light showers and wet bushwhacks. And the 330-denier polyester (and 550-denier nylon boot) proved plenty durable. On the Centennial Trail, Pierce reported: “The buck brush was so thick that I was walking on branches and couldn’t even see the ground—the pack was unscathed.”

Best For Technical Terrain

Mountain hardwear direttissima 55l.

$420 at Mountain Hardwear

Weight: 4.7 lbs (S/M) Size: Unisex, S/M and M/L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Comfortable carry ⊕ Decent organization ⊕ Durable materials ⊗ Poor breathability

If you’ve got a big climb standing between you and camp, you’ll want the Direttissima on your side. “Even after 3,000 feet of vertical gain with a 40-pound load, my hips felt fine,” gushed Katie Griffith, a Washington-based climbing guide who’s typically prone to hip sores. “This is probably the most comfortable climbing pack I’ve used.”

Credit goes to the aerospace-grade, V-shaped aluminum frame, which transfers loads to the center of a lightly-padded hipbelt. There, the tip of the V creates a pivot point, which allows the pack to rock and twist with your body. We found the pack moved with us, even while scrambling, traversing glaciers, and ‘shwacking up primitive approach trails. The one tradeoff to that close-to-back fit: breathability. We often arrived at the base of our objectives soaked in sweat.

Despite all the rough handling, the pack showed no signs of wear. The Direttissima owes its durability to its cutting-edge fabrics. The sides and toplid sport a PU-coated, 210-denier nylon ripstop, while the dorsal panel is Challenge Sailcloth’s Ultra 400TX, which has a higher tear strength and double the abrasion resistance as the Ultra 200 fabric found in some of the year’s other packs. The boot is further reinforced with an 840-denier carbonate-coated nylon—the highest-denier fabric in the test.

The Direttissima is also better organized than most alpine packs. It sports a 8-liter toplid as well as ice-axe and gear loops. Plentiful external straps made it easy to lash on a helmet, and a small removable pouch fits low-profile aluminum crampons. (The hipbelt and toplid are also removable for lighter-weight missions.) A single zipper provides side access, and a sole hipbelt pocket holds snacks, lip balm, and sunscreen. Another bonus: the Direttissima fits seamlessly over a harness. “I didn’t even notice I had it on,” reports Oregon mountain guide Kelly Rice.

Most Eco-Friendly

Fjällräven kajka 65.

$375 at Fjällräven

Weight: 6.4 lbs Size: Unisex; S/M and M/L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Top-notch durability ⊕ Excellent load carry ⊕ Included raincover ⊗ Weight

Many eco-friendly packs with alternative materials have one major downside: they’re heavy. Fjällräven, especially, is known for its weighty packs owing to the brand’s use of wood and canvas. But now, major material and design updates have shaved more than a pound off previous editions of the Kajka, making this low-carbon-footprint favorite more accessible—and comfortable—than ever.

Several features contribute to the Kajka’s eco cred. For one, the combination of proprietary synthetic polyvinyl and burly 500-denier nylon ensures that your Kajka will likely outlive you (and therefore stay out of the landfill). Second, polyvinyl is naturally dirt- and water-resistant, eliminating the need for additional chemical treatments. Proof: the Kajka successfully deflected wet vegetation, rain, and sandstone scrapes on North Carolina bushwhacks and Arizona canyoneering trips alike. The nylon is fully recycled, and the dual vertical stays are made of flexible-but-strong renewable birch.

Thanks to the unique frame and plush hipbelt, photographer Evan Green was able to carry 50 pounds of camera equipment on a 35-mile backpack through Western North Carolina. He reported stable carry, even while running up hills to get the shot.

Green was also impressed with the Kajka’s organization. A full U-shaped zipper afforded him quick access to both memory cards and overnight gear, and massive lateral zipper pockets kept snacks and layers handy. Each hipbelt pocket fits a phone, and bungeed side pockets accommodate Nalgenes. Fun bonus: The removable toplid converts into both a chest pack and a shoulder bag.

Best for Bigger Bodies

Osprey rook/renn 65 ef.

$190 at REI (Renn/Women’s) $190 at REI (Rook/Men’s)

Weight: 3.8 lbs (Renn) Size: M’s and W’s; one size each

Pros and Cons ⊕ Adjustable backpanel ⊕ Included raincover ⊕ Good load carry ⊕ Affordable price ⊗ Subpar breathability

Most plus-size backpacks feel like an afterthought, but the Rook/Renn 65 EF was specifically designed for the needs and nuances of bigger bodies. The hip pockets are positioned to remain accessible even with the waist belt extended to its full 70-inches. Likewise, the harness padding is extended and contoured to comfortably wrap broader shoulders and waists.

Though the Rook/Renn 65 EF only comes in a single size for each gender, it sports four inches of torso-length adjustability. Testers found the adjustment system—two parallel ladders with plastic toggles—easy to manipulate. And testers of all sizes felt that the 4-mm aluminum perimeter frame let them carry extra heavy loads.“I packed about 45 pounds to an alpine hut,” says Diandra Oliver, a tester based in British Columbia. “I had plenty of room left in the bag and could have carried more.”

She also lauded the plentiful organization, which made it easy to quickly stuff gear for an early start. Deep bottle pockets, a massive toplid, and a stretchy dorsal sleeve swelled to fit extra layers. A three-liter hydration sleeve and included raincover round out the features.

The only downside was breathability: the backpanel’s mesh trampoline is hourglass-shaped, which means that larger bodies tend to block airflow on either side of the mesh. As a result, we ended humid hikes in the Adirondacks soaked with sweat.

So far, the pack’s burly 600-denier recycled polyester has defied scrapes, even after a season of bashing. “I threw it on rocks and packed my axe inside with a cereal box for a blade cover,” Oliver reports. “No holes or wear.”

Your choice of pack can make the difference between a life-changing trip and a miserable one. Here’s how to choose.

1. Capacity: The first step is to determine what kind of capacity you need. For one- to three-night trips, target 40 to 55 liters. For gear-intensive trips or those nearing a week in length, you’ll likely need 60 to 70 liters. When you go shopping, bring your full kit—clothes, water, sleeping bag, tent, the works. Make sure it all fits in the pack before you buy.

2. Fit: No discount is worth sacrificing your comfort for. Before you buy, have a gear shop employee measure your torso length (the distance from the vertebra at the base of your neck to the point midway between your iliac crests). Most people are between 16 and 21 inches. Make sure this number falls within the range of your prospective pack’s specs. Then, try it on. Swing your arms, rock your head back, and leap around. The pack should feel snug but not too tight, and it should move with your body without impairing motion.

3. Load-carrying capacity: How much can your pack comfortably carry? Lightweight and ultralight packs may look sleek, but many cap out around 25 pounds—a tough weight to achieve if you prefer a few creature comforts. Beefier packs can often tote up to 50 or 60 pounds, but they also weigh more when empty.

4. Features: Now consider your backpacking style. If you like to snack on the go, prioritize hipbelt and chest pockets. If you’re a reservoir person rather than a bottle person, make sure there’s a built-in hydration sleeve and hose port. If you plan to carry an ice axe or trekking poles, look for stowage loops. Your preferences may change over time, but make sure your pack meets your basic needs.

• Total miles: 425
• Total vertical feet: 119,500
• Coldest temp: 28°F (Denali National Park, AK, Diane Van Dommelen)
• Hottest temp: 98°F (New River Gorge, WV, Ashley Manning)
• Highest elevation: 14,007 (Mt. of the Holy Cross, CO, Robin Mino)
• Highest winds: 35 mph (Continental Divide Trail, CO, Robin Mino)
• Heaviest Load: 50 lbs (Evan Green, Kajka 65)
• Biggest oops: One tester strapped his bag of camp meals to the outside of his pack, went bushwhacking, and promptly lost all his food. He had to hike out via an emergency Forest Service road exit

Backpacking packs are among the toughest items to fully test within the course of a season. They’re more complex than apparel, they take longer than boots to show their pain points, and all the bells and whistles can take dozens of miles to evaluate. That means each pack needs at least two testers and 50 to 100 miles on the trail at a minimum—all in just a five-month span. Every testing season is a madcap race to drive as many packs into the ground as fast as we possibly can. Samples usually start trickling into the office in July. From then on, it’s a game of hot potato: we rush to ship them to our hardest-charging testers. When one trip ends, the pack flies back to the post office and into the hands of the next tester.

This year, we evaluated 19 total packs. The ones without technical features, load-bearing hip belts, or suspensions appropriate for their carrying capacity, we eliminated from the test. From there we distributed our candidates to 20 testers across nine states and three countries—as far as Canada, Alaska, and Argentina. Those that broke, tore, or left our testers aching were either re-tested or cut from the running. Those that lightened loads, kept us moving, or made us forget we were wearing packs at all made the list.

Corey Buhay is a former Backpacker editor and co-author of the hiking guidebook Colorado Rockies. She is currently based in Boulder, Colorado. She’s been managing the packs category for Backpacker since 2019, and has developed very strong opinions about hipbelt pockets.

Erica Givans is a longtime backpacker, ice climber, and artist from Bend, Oregon. She currently lives in Denver, Colorado, where she alternates between seeking out hot springs and packrafting on alpine lakes throughout the Rockies.

Nate Pipenberg is a freelance writer and trailworker and the author of Backpacke r’s ultralight hiking column. He recently finished hiking the Idaho Centennial Trail, and he’s currently working on a guidebook of gravel bike routes near his home in Boise, Idaho.

When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.

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The Hungry Hiker

Tips & Tricks on How to Plan Your Next Outdoor Adventure

How to Plan Your First (Or Next) Overnight Backpacking Trip

Want to go on an overnight backpacking trip and have no idea where to start with planning a trip like this? Trip planning for an overnight backpacking trip can be overwhelming and intimidating for a lot of people, especially if you’re new to backpacking.

I’m going to share with you some of my favorite tools I use to plan overnight backpacking trips, in hopes of helping you learn how to plan either your first or next overnight backpacking trip of your own.

I recently took a group of my students from my online backpacking program for women, The Confident Solo Female Backpacker System out for an early season overnight backpacking trip to Ancient Lakes , here in Washington State. This turned out to be a very fun, successful and amazing trip!

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through my entire process of how I planned this trip for my students including how I decided where to go, why I chose this specific location and some of my favorite resources I used to plan our trip. Then I’ll share with you a special online tool I created that will help you start planning your first or next overnight backpacking trip.

If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed with the trip planning process, it’s okay. Trip planning for any trip, no matter where you’re going and how long you plan on being out there can be overwhelming for a lot of backpackers, AND not just beginner backpackers, but also experienced backpackers as well.

Here’s how I planned our recent overnight backpacking trip to Ancient Lakes . Starting with how I decided where to go for our group overnight backpacking trip.

How I Decided Where To Go Overnight  Backpacking

When planning a group trip for my students, I always start by taking the trip objective and the experience level of my students into consideration when deciding where to go.

My objective for this group trip was to give my students a chance to practice using their gear in a low risk setting while having fun. I knew for most of the students in the group, this would be their first overnight backpacking trip this year. This would also be considered an early season trip, a first for a majority of the group. I wanted to pick a place where they could safely and comfortably ease back into the backpacking season, apply what they’ve been learning in my program out on trail and have fun while they’re out there.

The time of year is another consideration I kept in mind when deciding where to go. We would be going on our overnight backpacking trip in March, which is still considered winter/early season here in Washington. When most places, especially at a higher elevation are still covered in snow, I knew Ancient Lakes over in Eastern Washington would be a good option, terrain and weather-wise. This time of year, the temperatures can be milder than most areas in Western Washington. There’s very little elevation gain and there’s no snow on the ground. Ancient Lakes is also a great option for this time of year because during the warmer months, the snakes and ticks come out, the area is exposed with very little shade and the water sources are extremely limited.

I also wanted to keep the total trip mileage and daily mileage in mind for my students. Since I knew this would be the first overnight backpacking trip of the year for most of the group, I didn’t want to pick a place where we’d have to hike a lot of miles just to get to camp.

Ancient Lakes has a number of different trails with multiple trailheads to access the area. I could make this trip – the hike to camp, water and our day hikes throughout the trip – as long or as short of a hike as I needed to, while keeping my students in mind.

I also didn’t want to have to deal with needing to secure a permit for this trip. There’s no permit needed to camp anywhere at Ancient Lakes. All of the tentsites are first come, first served and free. The only permit required is the Discover Pass at the trailhead.

Something else I wanted to take into consideration when choosing a place to take my students backpacking was picking an area that I was already familiar with. Since I would be leading the group, I wanted to pick a place where I felt comfortable and had been before.

I’ve day hiked the Ancient Lakes area multiple times before. I was familiar with the drive to get to the trailhead, the different trailheads we could start our trip from, the tentsites in the area, the terrain we’d be hiking through, and all of the day hike options we’d have while we were out there. I also knew that this area would be well-traveled and that we wouldn’t be the only group out there.

Part of my research for this trip included previous day hikes I’ve been on out in this area. I was familiar with the drive to get to the trailhead, the different trailheads we could start our trip from, the tentsites in the area, the terrain we’d be hiking through, and all of the day hiking options we’d have while we were out there.

I also read current trip reports for the area on both the WTA website and AllTrails , to get a feel for the current trail conditions.

Then, I looked at a map and created a route using Gaia GPS to determine our total trip and daily mileage, possible places to camp, water sources and day hiking options in the area.

While doing my research, I also learned that there would be limited water sources in the area. Even though there were lakes nearby, they wouldn’t be safe to drink out of, even if we filtered the water because all of the water in the lakes were irrigation runoff.

For this trip, we’d have to carry in a large amount of water on Day 1 and then plan to hike down to the river, which would be a 6-mile hike roundtrip from camp and back, to collect and filter safe drinking water to bring back to camp.

Also, while doing my research, I learned that since it was still considered early season (meaning that the area would be cooler days and even colder nights), local wildlife like ticks and snakes wouldn’t be an issue yet.

Checking The Conditions

Once I’ve completed my research for the Ancient Lakes area, I started checking the trail conditions, road conditions and weather forecast to get an idea of what we could expect while being out there.

Each day up until leaving for trip, I would look for any new trip reports on both the WTA website and AllTrails .

Since I knew I’d have to travel over a mountain pass to get to Eastern Washington, I also kept an eye on the road conditions for Snoqualmie Pass through the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) website .

And for weather, I checked the current weather forecast through the National Weather Service or NOAA website for the Ancient Lakes area a week prior to leaving for the trip, a couple of days before the trip and then again, the night before and morning of leaving for the trip, just to see if anything had changed.

Planning The Trip

Then for the actual planning for the trip, I used the routes I created on Gaia GPS to note total trip and daily mileage, elevation gain/loss, nearby trailheads and parking lots, possible tentsites, potential water sources and multiple day hiking options in case we wanted to make our hikes during the day shorter or longer.

Once I put together a plan for the whole trip and plotted out a route for each day we’d be out on trail, I put together my meal plan for the trip based on the number of days we were planning on being out on trail. Then I packed up my food and moved on to deciding what backpacking gear to bring for the trip.

Backpacking Gear To Bring

If you’re interested in seeing the backpacking gear I brought with me for this trip, check out my LighterPack.com list for this trip.

Keep in mind when deciding on what backpacking gear to bring for your trip, you’ll need to consider how long you plan on being out there, how many miles you plan on hiking during your trip, both daily mileage and overall trip mileage, the time of year, the forecasted weather for the area, the type of terrain you’ll be traveling through and camping on and nearby water sources..

There’s a lot of information out there about backpacking gear, but how do you sort through all of the information trying to figure out what gear is going to work for you, the type of trip you want to go on and the area and/or climate you’ll be hiking in?

I’ve put together a free Backpacking Gear Packing List you can download and print out to use when planning your trip. This packing list will help give you an idea on what gear you’ll need to bring with you for an overnight backpacking trip.

READY TO START PLANNING YOUR OVERNIGHT BACKPACKING TRIP?

Now that you’ve seen how I planned my recent overnight backpacking trip with my students using some of my favorite trip planning resources, you’re probably excited about planning your own trip, but maybe you’re still feeling overwhelmed about the whole process. This is why I created a special online tool that will help you start planning your first or next overnight backpacking trip.

Introducing The Hungry Hiker Backpacking Trip Planning Masterclass , a step-by-step guide on how to plan your first or next overnight backpacking trip.

The Hungry Hiker Backpacking Trip Planning Masterclass will cover everything (in detail) from how to prepare, research and plan for your trip to the backpacking gear you’ll need.

This masterclass also includes navigation and trip planning video tutorials and digital and printable trip planning resources along with tips and tricks for first time solo backpackers.

This online class is self-paced so you can work through all of the material at your own pace and easily fit it into you own schedule and time zone whenever you’re ready to start planning your trip. Once enrolled, you’ll have lifetime access to the class so you can refer back to it whenever you’re planning future overnight backpacking trips.

If you’re ready to finally start planning your overnight backpacking trip this year, then this masterclass will help you get to the trailhead.

CLICK HERE to learn more and sign up for The Hungry Hiker Backpacking Trip Planning Masterclass.

Disclaimer:  The-Hungry-Hiker.com  is a participant in the Amazon Affiliate Links and AvantlInks Program, affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and other affiliated sites at no cost to you. Please note, I only link to products and services I personally use and trust.

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Backpacking europe made easy.

Whether you dream of eating gelato on sun-soaked Italian piazzas, exploring the cobbled streets of Prague or seeing the lights of Paris, backpacking through Europe has to be on everyone’s bucket list.

But planning your Europe trip itinerary can be a minefield. There are so many things to consider:  how to get around ,  where to stay , which  destinations to include … and that’s before you’ve even considered what to do when you get there!

Coach tours can be an easy option, but travelling with a massive group can make your experience less authentic – it’s definitely not for everyone.

Want to  plan your Europe backpacking trip with minimal stress , but without jumping on board a hop-on hop-off bus? We might just have a solution for you!

From self-guided European routes  with all tickets and accommodation included, to fully guided small group trips to Europe , we’ve got a range of options that could be a great compromise. Check out our options below,  read reviews  or  get in touch  to find out more!

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Pick from our  popular routes or create your very own custom route . Just tell us where you want to go and when, and we’ll sort out the rest. We don’t prescribe activities or set times; we know each traveller has a different idea of what makes the perfect Euroventure:

“The team at Euroventure was outstanding! Not only were they knowledgeable and helpful, but they were always quick to respond, very accommodating, and made every part of our trip personal and meaningful. Highly recommend Euroventure and would definitely book with them again.”  – Dannah

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Join one of our  backpacking tours for 18-30-somethings . You’ll travel with like-minded backpackers and a knowledgeable tour leader in a small group of up to 20 people, allowing you to experience a more authentic side to each country. Travelling safely on trains, buses and ferries like a native, you’ll get a unique insight into local culture:

“I went on the 2 week Central Europe group tour and it was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. We went to Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Venice. The included activities in each city were amazing!”  – Lauren

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Even today, this unspoiled natural landscape remains a frontier. A Grand Canyon hiking tour offers an incredible opportunity to explore shimmering waterfalls, ancient ruins, unimaginable vistas, and spectacular rock formations. Choose from a range of guided backpacking trips, mule-assisted camping and hiking tours, lodge-based tours and basecamp adventures. Experience a Grand Canyon hiking tour with Four Season Guides for the unforgettable vacation of a lifetime!

Your trip will be led by a professional, licensed Grand Canyon backcountry guide. All guides are highly experienced and thoroughly trained in emergency wilderness medicine (Wilderness First Responder and CPR certified). They carry extensive first-aid supplies, as well as emergency communication devices. In addition to their extensive backcountry knowledge and skills, our guides are extremely knowledgeable in all things Grand Canyon: geology, ecology, human history, and conservation. They are also skilled backcountry chefs, serving up delicious and nourishing meals every step of the way. Your backcountry hiking experience will surely be enhanced by the well-rounded skill sets our guides bring to every adventure.

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If you’re looking to explore all that the vast Grand Canyon backcountry has to offer, then a guided backpacking tour is for you! We carry everything we need on our backs for the duration of the trip. Our backpacking tours delve deep into the hidden wonders found below the rim and offer opportunities for exquisite solitude and discovery. All Grand Canyon backpacking tours include nearly all necessary gear (top-quality backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, tents, trekking poles, cooking and eating gear), all food for the duration of the trip, transportation to/from trailheads via Flagstaff, AZ, and a professional, knowledgeable Grand Canyon guide. The only things you need to bring are your personal clothing and footwear, raingear, personal toiletries, headlamp, and water bottles or hydration bladder.

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Enjoy the opportunity to hike and explore a wide variety of trails, viewpoints, and local secrets by day and spend your nights camping beneath the stars. Shady forests, evening campfires, and outstanding stargazing are a welcome treat on the Canyon’s mile-high rims. Or if you prefer a more strenuous endeavor, descend to the bottom of Grand Canyon for a vastly different perspective, staring up to the rims from the depths. Basecamp hiking tours are all-inclusive and provide all necessary gear (day packs, trekking poles, tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, all cooking and eating gear), delicious meals, and a professional, knowledgeable Grand Canyon guide to lead you safely, keep you well-fed, and enhance your Grand Canyon experience with a wealth of fascinating information.

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For ultimate comfort, consider one of our lodge-based Grand Canyon hiking tours. Hike and explore the park’s fantastic trails by day and enjoy showers, soft beds, and restaurant dining each evening. The majority of our lodge-based tours utilize lodging above the rim and embark on a variety of hikes, both along the rim and below, and return to the lodge in the evenings after a full day of exploring. Our Phantom Ranch hiking tour offers a chance to hike to the bottom of Grand Canyon and stay at the only developed tourist accommodations below the rim. All lodge-based Grand Canyon hiking tours include use of day packs, trekking poles, lodge accommodations, delicious meals, and a professional, knowledgeable Grand Canyon hiking guide.

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Our Grand Canyon guided day hikes offer an excellent introduction to one of the World’s Seven Natural Wonders. Enjoy fully-guided, expert-led hiking tours or sightseeing along the South Rim. We take the work out of your Grand Canyon vacation planning. Our local experts will help you discover all the best viewpoints, trails and hidden secrets of this world-renowned destination. All day hikes include lunch, trail snacks, day packs, trekking poles, and a professional, knowledgeable guide.

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My 3-Day Backpacking Checklist (with PDF)

This comprehensive backpacking checklist includes every item I pack when I’m going backpacking. If you’re looking for a backpacking packing list with lightweight gear and a couple of luxuries that will maximize your comfort both at camp and on the trail, you’ve come to the right place.

Packing for a backpacking trip always feels a little stressful. It’s a careful balance between overpacking and underpacking. Bring too much, and your pack will be uncomfortably heavy. Bring too little, and you could end up cold, hungry and miserable. I know because I experienced both situations when I first started backpacking 20 years ago.

Since then, I’ve backpacked more than a thousand miles which has given me lots of opportunities to dial in my backpacking checklist so it has everything I need to be safe and comfortable and nothing more.

This comprehensive backpacking checklist list has all of the essentials you need for a 3-day (or longer) backpacking trip, including your shelter, sleeping system, clothing, safety gear, cooking equipment, and other basic necessities.

I recommend saving this post and printing off the checklist so you can easily refer back to it while you’re packing. That way you can make sure you don’t forget anything!

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Backpacking Gear Essentials

These are the essential pieces of gear that should always be on your backpacking checklist for every single trip you plan.

• Backpacking Pack : For a 3-5 day trip, the average backpacker will need a pack that is 50-60 liters. This is big enough to fit all of your backpacking essentials, as well as a bear canister if needed. Out of all the backpacks I’ve tried, I find the Deuter Aircontact Packs to be the most supportive and comfortable. They are very adjustable so you can get the perfect fit and have tons of pockets for easy access and organization.
• Tent : I love my Zpacks tent. It’s one of the lightest, yet roomiest tents on the market. The Zpacks Duplex (2-person) weighs 17.9 ounces and the Zpacks Triplex (3-person) weighs a mere 21.4 ounces, which is pounds less than most other tents! Ryan and I use the Triplex because it gives us a little extra space to spread out with our dogs. Instead of tent poles, you use your trekking poles and guy line tension to give the tent structure. That may sound intimidating, but I promise once you set it up a couple of times, it feels very easy. In my experience, it’s incredibly durable and can stand up to pretty horrible weather. Read my detailed Zpacks review for more info.
• Tent Stakes : Stakes are an easy item to forget, and I always pack a couple extras just in case. I use the Zpacks Sonic Stakes which are lightweight, have great holding power, and aren’t too expensive.
• Sleeping Bag : A few years bag, I switched to a backpacking quilt, and I’ll never go back to a traditional sleeping bag. The Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quit is very warm, incredibly light, and it’s way more comfy for those of us who shift around a lot in their sleep at night. The 850-fill down, 10-degree regular size only weighs 25.95 ounces, while the 30-degree weighs 19.18 oz. You can cinch the footbox completely closed, and it comes with straps that you use to attach the quilt to your sleeping pad, creating a cocoon-like environment. The quilt doesn’t have a sewn in hood, but if you need one, you can buy a hood separately.
• Sleeping Pad : The NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is 3.5 inches thick, and extremely light, packing down to the size of a Nalgene. The regular size weighs 1 lb, and it offers excellent insulation against the cold ground.
• Trekking Poles : I’d argue that trekking poles are an essential piece of gear on your backpacking checklist (especially if you are using the Zpacks tent I recommended). On those uphill climbs, trekking poles help take the weight off your hips and legs by utilizing your arm strength. On the downhill, they help ease the pressure on your knees. And on those stream crossings, these puppies have saved me more times than I can count by helping me balance. The Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles are the poles I use.
• Rain Cover for your Pack : Backpacks sometimes come with a rain cover, but if not, you’ll want to buy a rain cover separately to protect your gear in a downpour. You can also line the inside of your pack with a compacter bag as a budget-friendly solution.

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Cooking Gear

I tend to keep my cooking setup simple when backpacking. I mainly boil water for coffee or tea and oats in the morning and for backpacking meals in the evening.

• Backpacking Stove/Pot : The  Jetboil Flash Cooking System is the most efficient backpacking stove I’ve used. It takes just over 3 minutes to boil water. The Jetboil includes the stove and an integrated pot and weighs 13.1 oz. The Jetboil is best if you only plan to boil water. If you like to cook from scratch, I recommend the MSR Pocket Rocket and the TOAKS Titanium Pot .
• Fuel : For a 3-5 day trip for 2 people, one 8 oz fuel canister should be enough if you are boiling water for coffee, breakfast, and dinner.
• Water Filter : While there are lighter options, like the Sawyer Squeeze , the Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System is absolutely the easiest way to filter your water in the backcountry. You just hang up the bag and let gravity push the water through, eliminating the need to manually pump or squeeze water through a filter. At 11.5 ounces, it’s still very light and you can quickly and effortlessly filter water for your whole group. I also always carry some purification tablets in my first aid kit, just in case.
• Water Bottles : I like to have the ability to pack 3 liters of water. That way I can carry enough to last if there is a long distance between water sources. It’s also nice to have enough to cook with and drink at camp without having to constantly be filtering water. These lightweight Platypus Soft Bottles weigh practically nothing and can be rolled up when they are empty. While I normally day hike with a hydration reservoir in my pack, I prefer water bottles when backpacking. A hydration reservoir is much harder to refill because you have to take all of your gear out of your pack to access it.
• Mug : You’ll need something for that morning coffee and evening tea. The GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug is lightweight and will keep your beverage warm with its insulated wrap and sip lid. It even has a lightweight fabric strap as a handle.
• Eating Utensil : If you’re eating backpacker meals, this TOAKS Long-Handled Spoon is the only utensil you need, and it weighs shockingly little at 0.65 ounces! It also has a long handle and can easily reach the bottom of that Mountain House bag.
• Bear Canister : Bear canisters are required by law in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, spots in Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, and others. Even if they aren’t required, I often like to use a bear canister to keep other types of critters from getting my food. If you are on a short trip and only carrying food for yourself, the Bear Vault 450  is a good inexpensive option. Or for 2 people or longer trips, go for the larger version . Also in some places, they may be available for rent at rangers stations or local outdoors stores, but be sure to check before heading out.
• Lighter : Even if your stove has an ignition switch, you should always bring a lighter as a backup.
• Knife/Multi-tool : Depending on what you want to cook, you may need a small knife . Alternatively, a lightweight multi-tool with a knife can also come in handy for both cooking and in-the-field gear repairs.
• Bowl (Optional) : If you are relying on backpacker meals, you can eat right out of the pouch or the pot. If you are a bigger group where you are dishing out food, pack a small bowl. I like these foldable bowls since they take up zero room and weigh nothing, and you can lick them clean when you’re done.
• Food : See my post about lightweight backpacking food for ideas that are easy and don’t require a lot of cleanup.

Backpacking Kitchen

Safety gear.

There are a few safety gear essentials that should be on your backpacking packing list, no matter where you are headed.

• Emergency Communication Device : I consider an emergency communication device a must on my backpacking checklist. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 tracks your location with GPS, allows for two-way texting, and has an SOS function that you can use to call for help.
• Headlamp : The Black Diamond SPOT Rechargeable Headlamp is ultralight, waterproof, and has battery that should last on a 3-5 day trip as long as you aren’t using it on high beam the entire time.
• First-Aid Kit : This ultralight, waterproof medical kit comes with the minimum supplies that you will need to address minor wounds, as well as travel-sized packs of some handy medications. In addition to what comes in this kit, you should supplement it with some extra blister band-aids and any medications that are specific to the hikers in your group.

Read next: Prefer to put together your own medical kit? Read our guide on How to Build Your Own First Aid Kit .

My beauty routine while backpacking is pretty limited and is focused purely on hygiene, and that is reflected in this backpacking checklist. No deodorant, no makeup, etc.

• Lip Balm : The mountains can suck the moisture right out of those beautiful lips leaving them cracked and dry. Plus, your lips are just as vulnerable to sunburn as your face, so SPF is key. I’ve been using Jack Black SPF 25 lip balm for years. It’s very effective!
• Sunscreen : I like to cover my arms and neck with sun protective clothing, but I still use sunscreen on my face and other uncovered skin. I like Babo Botanicals Sunscreen because it’s EWG certified and free of nasty chemicals.
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste : I recently started packing Toothpaste Tablets on backpacking trips. I throw the number of tablets I need in a small bag, which weighs less than a travel-sized toothpaste tube. You just chew for a few seconds before brushing, and they work great!
• Poop Kit : Your poop kit should consist of a lightweight trowel for digging a 6-8″ cathole, toilet paper, and a small ziplock for packing out dirty toilet paper. Please pack out your toilet paper! It’s really gross to find used toilet paper from other backpackers, and animals like to dig it up. I typically like to put the ziplock with the dirty TP in a small, non-see-through sack just so I don’t have to look at it. For tips on how to Leave No Trace, read my post on How to Poop Outside .
• Pee Rag : Ladies, listen up! The antimicrobial Kula Cloth is a life-changing backpacking invention. Instead wiping with TP each time you pee and packing out the dirty TP OR not wiping at all, which can result in odors and discomfort, just wipe with the reusable Kula cloth pee rag! After using it, you rinse it off and hang it on the outside of your pack to dry. Then when you get home, you can throw it in the washing machine, and it’s good as new. For more details, read my full Kula Cloth Review .
• Hand Sanitizer : A small bottle of hand sanitizer is essential for cleaning your hands after going to the bathroom and before handling food.
• Bug spray : If the mosquitos are out, you’ll want to apply buy spray to uncovered areas. Bug spray is also effective against ticks if you are backpacking in areas where ticks are common.
• Body Wipes (Optional) : If you can’t stand the idea of not bathing for a few days, you can pack a few body wipes to clean yourself. Rather than bringing the whole package, you can take the number you need and put them in a ziplock.
• Portable Bidet (Optional) : A new backpacking trend is to pack a portable bidet. It helps cut down on toilet paper use and keeps things a lot cleaner when you’re going days without a shower.
• Small hairbrush (Optional) : If you have long hair, wearing it in braids can help avoid tangles. However, a small brush is nice to keep things from getting too knotted up.

The specific clothing you pack is going to depend on the climate. The backpacking clothing checklist here assumes you are spending 3-5 days in the mountains during the normal summer/fall hiking season.

The idea is to bring the absolute minimum you need to be comfortable. You really only need 1 hiking outfit and 1 set of dry, warm clothes to change into when you get to camp and for sleeping.

• Shirts (2) : I always hike in a lightweight, quick-dry, moisture-wicking t-shirt, and most often it’s the Patagonia Cool Capilene Long Sleeve T-Shirt . I prefer long sleeves because it minimizes the amount of sunscreen I have to apply throughout the day. I bring 2 – one for hiking and another for camp.
• Shorts (1) : These REI Co-op Active Pursuits Shorts are comfortable, stretchy and breathability than spandex.
• Hiking Pants (1) : While I like to hike in leggings, if the mosquitos are bad, they can bite you right through leggings. In that case, I like something a bit looser like the the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle Pants . They are extremely light, have deep pockets, and a stretchy waistband. For men, my partner Ryan likes to backpack in the Kuhl Renegade pants .
• Camp/Sleep Pants (1) : If you can find hiking pants that are also comfortable to sleep in, then you might not need a second pair of pants. However, I like to have something a bit warmer for nighttime. Long johns are great because you can always layer them underneath your hiking pants if it’s really cold, and they are great to sleep in too.
• Midlayer (1) : The Patagonia R1 Full Zip Hoody is warm, yet breathable and can be layered over your hiking shirt if it’s a cold day or underneath a jacket at night.
• Insulated Jacket (1) : I recently tried the Enlightened Equipment Torrid Jacket ( men’s here ). It’s made of synthetic insulation which performs better than down in wet conditions. It’s lighter and warmer than the popular Patagonia Nanopuff and packs down very small. It’s not the most fashionable, but for a lightweight backpacking jacket, it’s hard to beat.
• Rain Gear : Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s wise to pack rain gear, even if the forecast isn’t calling for rain. I personally use the Arc’teryx Beta SL (see my full Beta SL review here ). It’s made of 3-layered GORE-TEX, has big pit zips for ventilation, and the material is soft and flexible so it’s comfortable to hike in. Plus it only weighs 10.6 oz, making it one of the lightest quality rain jackets out there. You should also consider bringing rain pants .
• Sports Bra (2) : I prefer a basic sports bra that doesn’t have underwire or clasps that could end up rubbing against my backpack. I’ve been wearing the Nike Swoosh Bras for years, and they are great for hiking and swimming in.
• Underwear (2-3) : You may be tempted to bring more on a short 3-day trip, but it’s not practical to bring a pair of underwear for each day on longer trips. I bring 2-3 pairs. When I change out of one, I rinse it, and hang it to the outside of my pack to dry. Here is a roundup of my favorite quick-dry women’s underwear for hiking .
• Socks (2) : I bring 2 pairs of Darn Tough Lightweight Hiking Socks on every backpacking trip. Like my underwear, I’ll swap them out and rinse them in between uses. Darn Tough are extremely durable, keep their shape, and stay in place on your feet so you avoid nasty blisters .
• Hiking Boots (1) : I’m a huge fan of Oboz Footwear and have been wearing them exclusively for almost a decade. If you like a traditional mid-ankle hiking boot, the Oboz Bridger BDry Mid is extremely popular. If you like something a bit lighter, the Sawooth, Sypes or Katabatic are great choices too. Want more recommendations? Check out my guide to the best women’s hiking boots .
• Camp Sandals (1) : For a camp sandal, you want something that is light, supportive enough to walk around in, can be worn in the water, and that you can wear socks with. I love the Teva Universal Trail Sandals . They are lightweight (1 pound for the pair) and provide structure and grip for walking around camp. Read my full Teva Sandal review for more details.
• Sun Hat (1) : I like a wide-brimmed hat because it protects more of my face from the sun. The Wallaroo Sedona Hat has been my favorite for years. It’s comfortable, provides great UPF 50 coverage, and the brim is flexible enough that it isn’t annoying when it hits my backpack. You can get 20% off any Wallaroo hat with the code “BEARFOOT20”
• Sunglasses : These should provide UVA/UVB protection. I wear Roka Sunglasses (The Rory 2.0 are my favs). They are lightweight and don’t shift around on my face. You can also get Roka sunglasses with a prescription.
• Buff : A Buff is a versatile piece that you can wear around your neck for sun protection or around your face and ears if it’s windy. When I’m hot, I like to dunk mine in the water which keeps me cool as I hike.
• Beanie : Depending on how cold it will get, you may want a beanie for nighttime.
• Gloves : If it’s going to be cold, you’ll also want to bring a pair of gloves. I like these lightweight Smartwool liner gloves . They’re touchscreen compatible and not bulky, so they work well with trekking poles. If you think you might be hiking in rain, these ultralight rain mitts can be worn over your gloves and will keep your hands dry as you hike.
• Head net : If the mosquitos are bad, you’ll thank yourself for bringing a small insect head net to keep them off your face.
• Swimsuit (Optional) : Swimming in a sports bra and underwear is totally acceptable in the backcountry, but if you’re more comfortable you can also bring a swimsuit.

Helpful Tip

Avoid cotton.

When backpacking, you want to avoid cotton because it retains moisture, takes a long time to dry, and tends to harbor smells. Instead, opt for quick-dry materials that wick sweat and resist odors.

Backpacking Clothes

Backpacking luxury items.

Below are a few luxury items that you might consider adding to your backpacking checklist. These aren’t necessities, but they can make your time on the trail more comfortable and enjoyable.

• Backpacking Chair : Packing a lightweight chair is definitely not essential for a backpacking trip, but it’s a nice-to-have item if you plan to spend a lot of time relaxing at camp. The Helinox Chair Zero packs down to roughly the size of 2 Nalgene water bottles and weighs only 1 pound.
• Backpacking Pillow : As I get older, a pillow has become a must for me. It helps me sleep so much better at night, and a real pillow is far superior to the old-school method of stuffing clothing in a stuff sack. An inflatable pillow is going to be the lightest option, but I prefer the Therm-a-rest Compressible Pillow which allows me to comfortably sleep on my back or side. I also like using this pillow strap to attach my pillow to my sleeping pad so it doesn’t shift around at night.
• Quick Dry Towel : A lightweight quick-dry towel is always handy, whether it’s for drying your hands and face, doing dishes, or going for a swim and doing some sunbathing.
• Portable battery pack : If you want to recharge your devices, this Nitecore Gen2 Power Bank is one of the lightest, weighing 5.29 oz. It has a 10,000mAh capacity and can charge a iPhone 2 times.
• Book : I suggest bringing a Kindle over a bulky paperback.

What’s on your backpacking checklist that I missed? Is there anything you’d add or subtract? Do you have any questions about what to bring backpacking? Let me know in the comments below.

More Backpacking Tips

• How to Train for Hiking & Backpacking
• How to Pack a Backpacking Pack for a Multi-Day Trip
• How to Plan a Backpacking Trip in 12 Simple Steps
• Backpacking 101
• Most Common Beginner Backpacking Mistakes
• Tips for Backpacking With a Dog

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With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

59 Comments

Pretty nice list! I need to have a look at the Nemo sleeping pad, my Thermarest is annoying me so much recently.. Need something light and rectangular.

I’m totally with you re: trying to find a comfortable and convenient way to carry photography gear. Have you tried the Peak Design capture clip? I’ve used it for day hikes and have liked it so far but am not sure how it will work for weekend backpacking trips. Of course, even with the clip you’d need some decent bag for protection if you’re going through rough terrain or if the elements don’t cooperate. I like your approach with the sling though. 🙂

I have tried the Peak Design clip. They are pretty cool and I might be taking one with me on my upcoming trip to Nepal.

Check out Cotton Carrier’s Strapshot camera holster for your DSLR. It wraps around your backpack shoulder strap and provides a secure place to hang your camera with a 1/4 turn quick release and safety tether. I use it and have the full chest harness. (I’m not at all associated with them, just find their gear really convenient.) Thanks for the good read.

I also use the cotton carrier system – a disc screws into the tripod attachment of my camera (I pack in a Sony a6000 with an 18-200mm lens) and then there’s a holster that clips/velcros on to my backpack strap on my shoulder. You keep the strap around your neck for safety (more than twice I’ve been over, the camera unhooked from the carrier and I would have dropped it without the neck strap!) and then the camera is easily accessible when you want to shoot something. The downside is no protection from dust/moisture, so on dusty trails I’m brushing off the lens a lot. But it went with me to Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro and numerous 2-7 day backpacking trips with a large ziplock in my bag for water protection if needed. Love this setup.

I love my cotton carrier. I carry a full sized Nikon on it..have for 3 years… zero accidental disconnects… its tough for a piece of plastic too….

Great list Kristen, these checklists are so handy for people that are new to doing these kind of hikes. Have a great holidays! Stephen – Uncharted Backpacker

This is an awesome and very specific list! It’s very helpful you listed brands that you specifically like to use!

Just got the Montrail hiking boots. Loving it so far. Great list.

I THINK I obtained permits for Havasu Falls for this spring (I received confirmation emails, but still have a fear something may go wrong, but I’m hoping for the best). Starting to plan and struggle with what camera equipment to bring. I have a Nikon d7100 that I love, but would like to get by with just my 35 mm/1.8 lens. Think that’s wide enough to get good waterfall shots?

Hey Des, I’d highly recommend a wide angle lens. I brought a 16-35mm last time and it worked out perfectly. Have fun!

Amazing list! Seems to be the go-to stuff when comparing to other lists. That said, I\’d strongly suggest bringing a compass and map! On a longer trip would you change change the gear or simply bring a few more items of clothes?

Thanks Sean for the added recommendation of a compass and map! For a longer trip I would just recommend having at least one change of clothes in case of weather or for added layering. I backpacked the entire PCT for 5 months with only 2 shirts and 2 pairs of bottoms, so you definitely don’t need to expand on bringing more items necessarily.

A great list and this is going to be so useful to me. I go on treks very frequently and usually don’t get much time for backpacking. Thanks a lot for posting!

You literally just saved my life. Thank you for making this list!

Its always good to have a small extra knife just to be sure and ready for everything. A roadeavour knife wont add that much. only a size of a credit card. but very reliable.

Also a good thing to have is a collapsible water bottle like the one in roadeavour

n NZ if I went hiking with an umbrella, I would be laughed out of the hills. It would be really good to see exactly what you take in all the small bags, as this is wear weight accumulates and my pack gets heavy. Thanks for sharing.

Hey man, this is a very specific and a great list. Thanks for sharing with us such a awesome list.

Great list Kristen. Thanks for taking the time to put this stuff together. Your site is full of great info. I do the same stuff on a much less professional level on my youtube channel. Your site always has a few gems that even experienced hikers can find useful. Keep up the good work!

Thanks good stuff

Wow you hit the lottery? Most hikers couldn’t afford have your list. Anyone can go into a REI and buy the best available but a true backpacker can use whats handy and go on a trip. I am an assistant scout master for a Boy Scout troop and do trips including gas for a 3 hour trip, food for 12 and snacks for around 12 bucks each using basic gear for 3 days on the trail. Contact me and I can teach you how to hike on a tight budget.

I am so grateful to have stumble across your website. I am a beach bum. I have only done one day hikes. But, I have been invited to a three day hike in Korea. I will be doing the Jirisan Nature Reserve over three days. I have a bag and sleeping bag. That’s it. What elae do I need to prepare for this three day trek? It will be in September. Your help would be appreciated. I am an Expat teaching in Korea. I am exploring Korea through Hikes and wone tasting. I am open to suggestion.

Hi Gabriela, we are so glad you found us! Will you need a tent for your trek or will they be provided? We would recommend a sleeping pad as well. If you’d like to reach out and email us at [email protected] we can provide you with additional links to great articles and packing lists on our site to help you prepare for your trip. Sounds like an incredible adventure you have ahead of you!

Just what I was going to say. This is nice list of gear for anyone who has, say, a couple of thousand dollars to drop on a three-day (two-night?) backpacking trip.

What is your total weight of your pack?

Hi Rolando, that really depends on how long you are going to be backpacking. For a 3-day backpacking trip, we recommend trying to keep your pack weight as minimal as possible, depending on if you need to carry water or not. A good rule of thumb is not having your pack weight more than 20% of your body weight.

It is interesting that trekking poles can help manage the weight on your hips and legs by using your arms. My wife and I are going on our first backpacking trip in three months and we are trying to get everything together. We may consider going to a few camping stores near us to see what they recommend we bring too.

Hi James, So exciting to hear you and your wife are getting into backpacking! Trekking poles are a game-changer on the trail. We have a ton of comprehensive blog posts here about backpacking that you’ll probably find helpful. I suggest you start here: https://bearfoottheory.com/backpacking-101/ Let us know where you go and if you have any questions!

On my must pack list is a brightly colored bandana or two. So many uses; shade, neck warmer/cooler, dishrag, splint maker, wash rag, hunter safety gear (thus, brightly colored), and on and on. Thanks for great list, Kristen!

My thoughts, exactly…Black Diamond everything! If I’m going to spend $1000, might as well be in a hotel. There are countless other, just as good, options out there. Off-Brand does not always mean that you are compromising durability and/or performance. Do yourself a favor and think logically–don’t always believe sites like this. Some great info in here, I’ll agree, but focus on being “prepared,” and not showing off at the trailhead as you unload from your Volvo.

Ho! these are some really good checklist, thanks for sharing 🙂

Thank you. I will try everything on my first hike this fall.

Thanks for reading, happy hiking!

What are your thoughts on a woman hiking solo? Safe?

We thinking hiking solo as women can be done safely. In fact, it can be fun and empowering. Check out this blog post for more on this topic as well as safety tips for solo hiking: https://bearfoottheory.com/hiking-alone/

Thanks for this list, I’m planning out my first backpacking trip for myself and my husband and struggling to find a minimalist approach! I don’t want to pack everything and the kitchen sink but every blog seems to have twenty million things that are unnecessary. I’m looking forward to following your list! Any tips on seating? My husband is struggling with not being able to pack his giant camping chair.

Hi Claire – we know what you mean! Taking only what you need to be safe and comfortable will help you have a better experience. If you’re suffering under the weight of your pack it’s hard to have a good time. The Helinox Chair Zero in the blog post below is a good option. It’s super lightweight and packs down small making it great for backpacking. The REI Trail Chair in the same blog post is a good option as well if you don’t mind sitting on the ground. Another option is a lightweight, folding stool (just search “camp stool” online and you should be able to find a few options). Happy hiking!

https://bearfoottheory.com/best-camp-chairs/

Look up thermarest trekker chair. It converts/folds your sleeping pad into a sitting position.

That’s a great suggestion, thank you!

I will definitely keep this in mind in my next travels. thank you!

Thanks for reading!

What is your total weight including pack for 3 days? Also check out Lume deodorant on line. Some folks can go 72 hours with out stink. Safe for any body part. And no I don’t work for Lume, just having great results.

It varies depending on a few factors including the weather (how much warmth, rain gear, and shelter we have to pack for example) and whether a bear canister is needed which adds a little weight as well. I’d say our standard pack weight is anywhere from 15-30 lbs depending on how lightweight we’re going. And thanks for that deodorant recommendation!

Hi, thanks for taking the time to write these articles and share them, much appreciated. I have shared them on my own webpage/blog with my own followers as well – spreading the love.

Thanks Tania!

I was meant to find this post. I am a woman about to go on my first 3 day hiking/backpacking trip. I can’t tell you how helpful this info is. Thank you so much!

You’re welcome – happy trails!

The point is that if you’re looking to list existing products – it pays to ensure that you’re using the most effective techniques to instill trust, desire, and confidence in your buyers.

I love the mansplainers out there shaming her for touting nice gear. We all like to spend on different things. Some of us might go to REI to pick up a fun toy or two, and the rest of us probably have the brains to know how to substitute a cheaper item or repurpose something we have. First timers can also borrow gear from friends or neighbors before they commit to more frequent backpackers. It’s a great way to figure out what you like. This list was very helpful, Kim. Thanks.

Where’s your straw hat from though?? So cute!

It’s a Wallaroo Sedona Hat . My favorite wide-brimmed hat!

As others have said…THANK YOU. I have not backpacked in 8+ years and this was a great reminder and check list. I actually cannot believe some of the folks who harassed you about buying quality gear…guess their Momma never told them that “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything”…you would think they would have learned that on the trail. Their packs must get heavy carrying all that hate around…lose the weight! Franklly, I am always looking for ways to time weight and cost, but that is part of the fun and the process. Thanks again for a great list/refresher as I plan a 3 day in the Smokey’s!

So glad to hear you found this helpful! Enjoy your trip to the Smokey’s, and welcome back to backpacking! We actually have a fall travel guide for the park here in case you need help planning: https://bearfoottheory.com/smoky-mountains-fall-guide/

This is a very nice list, but if you put all these things together, the weight is not going to be ideal. The tent and sleeping bag is just about 6 lbs for start. All these are good products, but for the weight conscious, I would definitely be going for lighter items, if you don’t mind the weight, great list.

Hi Nikki, thanks for the input! These are the gear items we’ve personally carried when backpacking, even though they might not be the lightest on the market. For someone just starting out, buying gear can be really expensive so we’ve tried to strike a good balance between cost and weight in our recommendations. However, we’re working on an ultralight backpacking gear guide at the moment which will focus more on lightweight items.

Do you have an article on what you pack for food for a three day hike? I have always day hiked, and know my go to list for snacks, but haven’t ever done overnights, so not sure what to bring for calorie packed real meals. Thanks.

Hi Melanie, this blog post gives tips for what to pack for backpacking food, how much to bring, and our personal favorites: https://bearfoottheory.com/backpacking-food-ideas/

Thanks since I’ve become an old man I haven’t backpacked in a few years. So this was a good reminder. Appreciate you taking the time to post this. All the best for a safe and healthy season. Dave H Fort kent, Maine

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It’s no secret there are many national park hiking companies offering a wide range of national park hiking packages all across the globe. Wildland Trekking offers a proven, professional option for guided hiking vacations that showcase the very best of the parks we visit. We specialize 100% on hiking, trekking and backpacking, and we’re experts at it! Our trips are all-inclusive, expert-led, and feature hand-picked itineraries that consistently wow our guests, whether they’re on a backpacking trip, camping tour, inn-based tour, llama trek, or day hike. We invite you to peruse our destinations below and  contact us  with any questions!

All National Park Tours Trips ( 142 results)

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Yellowstone Snowshoe Traverse

Alaska Northern Lights and Snowshoe Tour Northbound

Alaska Snowshoe and Northern Lights Tour Southbound

Rocky Mountain Lodge Based Snowshoe Tour

Acadia: Summits to Ocean Inn-based

Hermit Loop

Summer Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon

Ultimate Utah National Parks Hiking Adventure

Heart of Alaska Inn-based Tour

Alpine Peaks, Lakes and Waterfalls Thru Hike

Best of Grand Canyon Tour

Grand Canyon Classic

More about national park trips, why a national park hiking vacation.

Some of the most famous destinations in North America are national parks. Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Great Smoky Mountains…the list goes on. The National Park Service has a unique mission when contrasted with other federal land management agencies like the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and others. The National Park Service is directed to preserve “unimpaired” the natural and cultural resources in the park boundaries “for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.” What this means is these amazingly unique, beautiful, wild places are preserved with the highest possible integrity. Exploring our national parks is often like stepping back in history, looking at what America looked like in the 18th or 17th centuries. What an incredible opportunity!

SHOULD I GO ON A GUIDED TOUR?

Many people choose to hike national parks on their own, and many choose to go with national park hiking companies like Wildland Trekking. Some of the benefits of going on a guided tour are:

• See the very best of the national park(s) you’re visiting . With itineraries hand-picked by local experts, guided tours allow you to focus in on the must-see hiking trails, natural features, wildlife areas…etc. and maximize your vacation time.
• Guides help national parks come to life  through natural and cultural history interpretation, stories, fascinating tidbits, and their passion for the local area. This level of enjoyment is difficult to emulate on your own.
• Enjoy an increased level of safety . Many of America’s national parks are quite dangerous, with hundreds of rescues annually, and even quite a few deaths. Grand Canyon’s mostly waterless desert environment, Yellowstone’s grizzly bears, Yosemite’s cliffs and deep backcountry…etc. Going with a local, professional guide and the company of a group dramatically increases the safety of your expedition.
• Plan stress free, travel light . Without having to worry about lodging, transportation, permits, meals, gear, daily plans…etc. for most of the trip (only the night before your trip begins), the planning is wonderfully simple! And the traveling? Equally so. We supply almost everything so you don’t have to travel with loads of gear and supplies.

WHAT TYPE OF TRIP SHOULD I JOIN?

We offer national park backpacking trips, inn-based tours, camping-based tours (“basecamp Tours”), llama treks (and other stock-supported treks), portered treks, and day hikes. If you’re looking for a backcountry experience where you leave the roads behind and venture far into the wilderness, then look to the backpacking trips, llama treks, and portered treks to be the best options. If you’d like an outdoor experience, but with showers, elaborate meals, more comfortable accommodations…etc. then a basecamp tour is a perfect option. If you want to get great hikes in, explore the best trails of your chosen park, and live it up at night with cozy lodge accommodations and restaurant meals, then our inn-based tours are the way to go. You can always  contact us  with any questions!

The Mt. Rainier Inn trip with Wildland was perfect. The Inn was comfortable; the guide was an expert in his field; the pacing was just right to accommodate all those on the trip; the scenery was ideal. If you can go please do.

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The 7 Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

From weekend trips to long-distance treks, these backpacking backpacks have you covered.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

I’ve been backpacking in various capacities for over a decade from off-the-grid wilderness treks to hostel hopping around Europe. Whether you’re planning to head out for a day trip , an overnight hike, or extended excursion, choosing the right backpacking backpack is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Backpacking backpacks come in a range of designs, from ultralight models for speedy, minimalist hikers to more burly packs suited for lugging heavier loads (or even checking if you're flying).

Besides holding all your equipment, gear, and provisions, a quality pack should be comfortable to carry and fit your frame. When choosing the best backpacking pack for my trips, I consider performance, durability, value, and versatility for different durations and weather conditions. If you’re gearing up for your first backpacking trip or looking to level up with a new pack, check out my favorite options below.

Best Overall

Osprey kestrel 58 pack.

It’s a versatile, full-featured pack made with durable materials that will last for years to come.

This is quite a large and hefty pack that may be too heavy for lighter trips.

For an all-around performer that’s suitable for weekend and long-distance trips in varied climates, the Osprey Kestrel 58 is my top pick along with the women’s specific version: the Osprey Kyte 58L Pack . Osprey backpacks are well-known for their top-notch performance and lasting durability. My first Osprey Kestrel is over a decade old and accompanied me up all 12,244 feet of Indonesia's Mount Rinjani and to every corner of Cambodia during my two-year Peace Corps service. The current model incorporates a revamped back panel: the AirScape system. It offers adjustable torso lengths and breathability while delivering close contact and excellent weight distribution on the lower back. 

The Kestrel’s use of 420-denier nylon in the pack body provides exceptional durability against wear and tear, even compared to other Osprey packs. I love that it’s equipped with a detachable rain cover, and how easy the cover is to pull over even fully loaded packs. There’s plenty of options for storage and organization, too. It has five external pockets, trekking pole holders, and daisy chains for adding more gear. I’m a big fan of packs with multiple access points, and the Kestrel offers easy entry from the top and front. To expand my storage options, I typically make use of the sleeping bag straps to hold dirty clothes on longer trips.

The Details: 420-denier nylon and 500-denier high-tenacity nylon | 4.7-4.9 pounds | Size S/M and L/XL | 58 liters | Waterproof

Best Lightweight

Gossamer gear mariposa 60 backpack.

This ultralight pack offers a frame that moves with your gait and a choice of hip belt design for a tailored fit. 

It’s water-resistant, not waterproof.

When every ounce counts, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is an excellent choice for lightening your load on the trail. With a 60-liter capacity, it delivers an impressive weight to storage ratio of roughly 0.54 ounces per liter. The main compartment is spacious, and there are seven exterior pockets for stashing water bottles and trail essentials. The pack is made with robic nylon, which helps save on weight, but doesn’t offer much for waterproofing. However, this can be resolved by adding Gossamer’s waterproof pack liner .

I love that the modular design allows the Gossamer to be configured for optimal weight and fit preferences (for example, the choice of a straight or curved hip belt). The Mariposa’s hip belt, back padding, and aluminum frame can be removed to make the pack even lighter, though this sacrifices comfort and ability to carry the pack fully loaded. There are also load lifters that work with the frame to relieve pressure on the shoulders, if desired.

The Details: Recycled nylon | 2.1 pounds | Size S-L | 60 liters 

Best for Beginners

Rei co-op trailmade 60 pack.

It’s a highly adjustable pack with comfortable padding and intuitive organization that new and experienced hikers will appreciate. 

The weight is middle of the road for a backpack this size.

The REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Pack is a user-friendly introduction to backpacking. Dialing in the right fit is essential when backpacking, and REI’s adjustable design makes this a seamless process. REI’s Trailmade collection is focused on more inclusive sizing options and affordability for new hikers and backpackers as well. To that end, the Trailmade 60 Pack is designed with an adjustable back length and a range of hip belt sizes. Both the men’s and women’s packs can fit waists and hips between 32 and 58 inches and the torso length is easily tweaked with a Velcro strap. I appreciate that adjustment directions (and packing tips) are printed on the underside of the top lid for even easier set up. The top-loading compartment is easy to use, and the option to configure a separate compartment for a sleeping bag (or dirty clothes) comes in handy on multi-day trips. I’m also a big fan of how accessible the water bottle holders are while wearing the pack. 

The Details: Recycled nylon | 3.2-3.7 pounds | 60 liters

Best Organization

Deuter aircontact core 65+10l backpack.

It has multiple access points and numerous exterior and interior pockets. 

It only comes in one size.

Having quick and easy access to essential gear saves time and hassle on the trail; not to mention, it makes setting up camp after an arduous day that much easier. The Deuter Aircontact Core Pack 65 + 10 gives backpackers a wealth of storage and functionality (do note that the women’s version of the Aircontact Core is designed as a 60 + 10 backpack). I love that gear can be packed and accessed from the top, front, and bottom of the bag. There’s a total of six exterior pockets, including zippered hip belt pockets, mesh side pockets, front stash pocket, and a zippered top pocket. The pack also features an interior pocket for valuables, trekking pole holders, and hydration system compatibility. While 65 liters of capacity is sufficient for many treks, I appreciate the ease of expanding the collar on the main compartment for an additional 10 liters of storage if needed. Though it only comes in one size, the VariSlide system allows for easy and exact adjustments to your back length for a secure fit. The hip belts and shoulder straps are supportive and adjustable, too, to ensure the pack stays in place

The Details: 235-denier polyamide and 500-denier textured polyamide | 4.9 pounds | One size | Up to 75 liters

Best Ventilation

Gregory katmai 55 pack.

The pack offers excellent air flow and ventilation for staying comfortable on the trail. 

The sturdy frame and full set of features add some weight compared to ultralight models. 

It’s easy to work up a sweat while backpacking — the Gregory Katmai 55 Pack offers top-notch breathability and ventilation when things heat up. The pack is equipped with Gregory’s FreeFloat 360 suspension system — a highly ventilated back panel that conforms to the shape of the lower back while allowing optimal air flow between you and the pack. I appreciate that the ventilated back panel is also treated with Polygiene Stays Fresh Technology to diminish odor-causing bacteria.

I also love that the pack offers inclusive sizing. The S/M fits waists/hips from 25 to 48 inches and torso lengths from 15 to 19 inches, while the M/L goes up to 53 inches for the waist/hips and 22 inches for torso length. The Katmai is a men’s specific pack, but the Gregory Kalmia 50 Pack is a similar model specifically designed for women. 

The Details: 210-denier nylon and 420-denier nylon | 4.6 pounds | Size S/M and M/L | 55 liters | Water-repellent

Best for Heavier Loads

Osprey aether 55 pack.

The customizable fit and suspension system aid in hauling considerably more gear than models of comparable weight and capacity. 

It’s on the heavier side if you don’t intend to make use of its hauling capabilities. 

Whether planning for a longer trek or carrying gear for others, having the option to haul more can be a major plus. The Osprey Aether 55 Pack (or Osprey Ariel 55 Pack for women) boasts an impressive load range of up to 60 pounds (when fully expanded). To handle heftier loads comfortably, the pack employs a close-to-body carry design. This is accomplished with Osprey’s AirScape injection-molded back panel that fits snug to the body, plus adjustable hip belt and torso length and shoulder straps that can be fine-tuned on the trail as needed. As an avid hiker, I appreciate that much of the weight sits on the hip belt and lumbar area to avoid strain in the shoulders.

Multiple access points and numerous loops and pockets make it easy to keep things organized while piling on lots of gear and provisions as well. When fully loaded, the twin compression straps come in handy for balancing weight and keeping gear in place.

The Details: 420HD nylon pack cloth and 210-denier nylon Diamond | 5 pounds | Size S/M, L/XL | 55 liters 

Most Comfortable

Rei co-op flash air 50 pack.

It’s ultra lightweight and adjustable so you can get a tailor-made fit. 

The thin materials may not be as durable as other options. 

For a lightweight backpack that doesn’t offload the pack weight onto your shoulders, we love the Flash Air 50 Pack for both men and women. The pack weighs less than two pounds, making this a great option for thru-hikers, weekend adventurers, and overnight travelers alike. While this pack is quite minimalistic with few pockets, it does have external pouches large enough to hold your water bottle and other essentials.

We love the light nylon fabric, but it is a bit thin and could snag if caught on branches. We also recommend investing in a raincover if you’re heading off on a longer adventure. But overall, the hip belt and ventilated back panel make this pack an overall comfortable option regardless of your hiking destination and style.

The Details: Ripstop nylon | 1.88 pounds for medium | Size S-L | 50 liters for medium

Tips for Buying a Backpacking Backpack

Be sure to find a proper fit.

Features aside, the best backpack is one that fits you well. Your torso length — a measurement that’s likely not top of mind — is a key determining factor in finding a proper fitting backpack . Thankfully, torso lengths are listed with any reputable backpacking backpack. Your torso length is the distance from where your shoulders and neck meet (the C7 vertebra to get technical) to the point of the lower back that’s aligned with your hip bones. 

The fit along the hips and waist is also critical and, thankfully, easier to measure. Simply wrap a tape measure just above where you’d wear a belt to get your hip measurements. While at-home measurements can give a rough idea to narrow your search, trying on a pack is critical before embarking on a trek. Check that the hip belt sits on top of the hips, as this is where most of the pack weight should rest. Shoulder straps should be snug but only carrying a modest amount of weight. If a pack is sitting on the hips correctly and not touching the shoulders, shorten the torso length or change pack size. 

Note that many packs offer some level of adjustability for torso length and hip belts. Extra features like load lifters and sternum straps can enhance the fit but be cautious about over-tightening these to avoid transferring too much weight onto the upper body.

Consider overall weight

The trip duration, weather conditions, and necessary gear will have some bearing on how much you need to pack, but a general rule of thumb is that a backpacking backpack should not exceed 20 percent of your weight when fully packed. To strategize your packing, start with the actual weight of the backpack plus truly essential equipment. Carefully planning out how much water, snacks, and food you should bring is best to avoid unnecessary weight. Typically, food amounts to 1.5-2.5 pounds per day per person, and this weight lessens as the trip goes on.

It can take some trial and error to figure out what gear and equipment is essential for your backpacking style and preferences. After each trip, consider which items you used frequently versus sparingly or not at all to fine-tune your backpacking packing list. Save yourself some nighttime frustration and pick up a decent camping lantern now.

Think about breathability 

A breathable and well-ventilated backpack is important for comfort and reducing sweat on the trail. If your backpacking trip has limited or no access to potable water (such as deserts and arid environments), cutting down on perspiration can make a big difference. Assess the ventilation in the back panel of any backpack when comparing options.

A good size for a hiking pack depends on your needs, but 10-30 liters is fairly standard for day trip packs. For a weekend backpacking trip or thru-hike, consider leveling up to 30-50 liters.

Most backpacking backpacks use an internal frame system. An external frame may come in handy if carrying larger gear that can’t fit within the backpack, while frameless models are popular with ultralight backpackers carrying only the essentials.

Pack denser and heavier items toward the bottom and middle of the backpack for optimal weight distribution with smaller and lighter items on top. Anything you’ll want quick access to on the trail can go in exterior pockets or the top of the backpack.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kevin Brouillard specializes in outdoor gear and apparel. His work has also been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster, and he served in the Peace Corps in Cambodia for two years. Kevin used his backpacking and camping experience to curate this list of the best backpacking backpacks.

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Europe Backpacking Tours

If you want to immerse yourself in different cultures and experience some incredible adventures along the way, a Europe backpacking tour should be at the top of your bucket list. Hop around the continent or explore a single country like Greece — either way, this style of travel delivers the perfect balance of must-see sights and once-in-a-lifetime activities!  

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Backpacking Europe routes

Backpacking northern europe.

If you want to travel slightly off the well-trodden tourist trail, Northern Europe might just be the perfect option for your European backpacking adventure. Destinations in this region — including Scandinavia, Finland , Iceland , and the Baltics — boast some of the most beautiful, diverse, and otherworldly landscapes on the planet. Discover the best of these underrated gems on the following tours:   Iceland Express Duration: 5 days Highlights: Explore the Golden Circle route, experience the sheer power of the Gullfoss (Golden) double waterfall, soak in the famous Blue Lagoon Scandi Highlights Duration: 7 days Highlights: Explore the city of Olso, experience Stockholm by bike, see the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen Absolute North Duration: 12 days Highlights: Soak up the scenery at Nyhavn in Copenhagen, marvel at the gorgeous fjord coast of Norway , explore Tallinn’s medieval centre   Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights Duration: 6 days Highlights: See the geothermal fields of Geysir and Strokkur, gaze at the sky in search of the Northern Lights   Explore more Northern Europe backpacking tours here .

Should I backpack Europe?

• Backpacking is a fun and affordable way to make your Europe travel dreams a reality
• With efficient and reliable trains, planes, and buses galore, it’s relatively easy to travel across the continent
• Staying at hostels means you’ll end up meeting new people and making lifelong friends — even if you’re travelling solo
• Carrying your belongings on your back gets tiring fast
• The crowds and queues at major attractions can quickly ruin your travel experience
• Certain cities, such as Barcelona and Paris, are notorious for scams and pickpockets, so you’ll need to be extra cautious when travelling to these destinations

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The Best Backpacking Backpacks, Tested and Reviewed

By Laura Lancaster

Updated on Aug 1, 2024 8:01 PM EDT

64 minute read

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Backpacking backpacks are undergoing a sea change. Huge 70-liter, heavily padded, fully-featured models are on their way out, and the minimalist packs pioneered by thru-hikers are in. Today’s backpackers can choose from lightweight, streamlined models with a range of frame styles that allow you to position your pack’s weight where it’s most comfortable. To find the best backpacking backpacks for everyone from ultralight diehards to weekend warriors, we conducted side-by-side testing on some of America’s most iconic long trails with a seasoned and diverse group of outdoors people. 

Below I’ve organized our top picks into three different frame styles. 

• Rigid frame backpacks transfer the majority of a pack’s weight to your hips.
• Wrap-around frame backpacks hug and contour to the body, balancing weight across your torso. 
• Removable frame backpacks allow you to choose between these two styles. It does not do either as well as a pack designed for that particular frame style, but allows for versatility.

Frameless backpacks are only appropriate for individuals whose kit is already ultralight, and are covered in our take on the best ultralight backpacks .

↓ Jump to the Best Backpacking Backpacks: Wrap-Around Frames

Best overall: aarn mountain magic 50, six moon designs swift x, ↓ jump to the best backpacking backpacks: removable frames, best overall: ula circuit.

• Best Load Bearing: Hyperlite Southwest 40

Black Diamond Beta Light 45

Durston kakwa 40, ↓ jump to the best backpacking backpacks: rigid frames.

• Best Overall: Osprey Exos 48

Best for Beginners: Granite Gear Crown3

• Best Traditional: Mystery Ranch Bridger

Mystery Ranch Radix 47

Rei flash air 50, outdoor vitals cs40 ultra.

• Deuter AirContact Core 65+10

Gregory Baltoro & Deva

• Zpacks Ultra Arc Haul

How We Tested the Best Backpacking Backpacks

We’re living through a golden era of backpacking backpacks: Big brand names like Mystery Ranch, Gregory, and Osprey are fine-tuning their internal frame designs. Mature cottage companies Six Moon Designs, Gossamer Gear, and Granite Gear are finally starting to go mainstream. Meanwhile, hardcore ultralight brands — Zpacks and Hyperlite, I’m looking at you — keep everyone honest. And there are new backpacking backpack brands all the time: Nashville, Symbiosis, and Lite AF. 

Diana Helmuth

While this review does include traditional-style backpacks, the focus is on lightweight and ultralight-style backpacks. There was a time when this style of gear was only appropriate for experienced backpackers, but increasingly brands are experimenting with — and succeeding in — creating lightweight backpacking backpacks that are just as comfortable, capable, and affordable as the six-pound models of yore. 

The Testers

To test the best backpacking backpacks, OL recruited a testing panel with a range of experience levels, body types, and preferences. 

Ashley Thess

• Adam Tycaster: Over 4,000 miles of backpacking experience, including the PCT 2014 and CT 2017. Previous go-to backpacks include the Osprey Exos.
• Alex Robinson: OL editor-in-chief; a backcountry big game hunter and fair-weather trail runner. Previous go-to backpacks include the Stone Glacier Evo 3300 and Kuiu Pro 6000. 
• Ashley Thess: Outdoor Life associate gear editor. Over 600 miles of backpacking experience. Previous go-to backpacks include the ULA Ohm.
• Diana Helmuth: Author of How to Suffer Outside (National Outdoor Book Award winner). Over 1,500 miles of backpacking experience. Previous go-to backpacks include the Dana Designs ArcFlex Terraplane.  
• Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchel: Over 11,000 miles of backpacking experience including the PCT 2014, CDT 2016, AZT, 2017, and GET 2017. Previous go-to backpacks include the Six Moon Minimalist, Mountain Laurel Designs Burn, and Gossamer G4.
• Jason Boyle: Shenandoah National Park hiking and backpacking guide. Previous go-to backpacks include Six Moon Designs.
• Laura “Chop Chop” Lancaster: OL staff writer. Over 4,000 miles of backpacking experience, including the PCT 2014 and CT 2017. Previous go-to backpacks include the ULA Catalyst and Osprey Talon.
• Patrice “Steady” La Vigne: Gear reviewer, Denali guide, and author of Between Each Step . Over 7,000 miles of backpacking experience, including the AT 2011 and Te Araroa 2014-2015. Previous go-to backpacks include the Gregory Deva and Osprey Aura. 
• Rebecca Ross: Outdoor photographer and gear reviewer. Previous go-to backpacks include Gregory, Osprey, and Teton Sports. 
• Sven “Magic” Anderson: 1,350-mile LASH (PCT) 2022. Hiking with Parkinson’s disease. 

Outdoor Life conducts an annual backpacking gear testing trip that focuses on innovative lightweight and ultralight backpacking gear. These testing trips take place on America’s national scenic trails, including a 30-mile stretch of the northernmost section of the Oregon Coast Trail and a 40-mile stretch along the Pacific Crest Trail in the Goat Rocks Wilderness. 

These trips usually see the testing group covering 10 or more miles each day. With our day’s mileage complete we take notes on each pack, as well as the other gear that’s being tested, and then swap out for a different model for the following day. This part can get a little intense as everyone unloads and then reloads all of their gear into a new backpack: think a typical pack explosion, but on steroids and your entire trail family. Over time, each pack’s features, flaws, and even personality began to make themselves known — Top Shelf began to see each pack as one of her children.

Traditional backpacking backpacks are tested individually by Rebecca Ross, Jason Boyle, and Diana Helmuth. 

After taking copious notes in the field, the testing team then spends a day filling out scoring sheets for each item in the test. We also discuss and compare with one another, which is helpful for understanding how and why experiences with the same gear can vary from person to person. 

Backpacking backpacks are scored on fit, comfort, load bearing, packability, accessibility, and value. Scores are then averaged among the testers, with the top scoring packs receiving top honors. 

• Fit: Were the testers able to adjust the pack to fit their bodies? 
• Comfort: Did the ultralight backpack produce any hot spots or soreness while hiking? Did they look forward to taking it off or did they leave the backpack on during breaks?
• Load Bearing: We measured how heavy our backpacks were each day before heading out to see how well they handled our typical loads, which ran between 15 and 30 pounds.
• Packability: We looked at whether we could fit our typical gear kit into each backpack and how easy (or difficult) it was to balance the load.
• Accessibility: How easily could we get at our gear during the day? 
• Value: Was the pack worth the price tag for the features it provides?

Comparison Table

Below is a side-by-side look at the specifications most important to backpackers (price, capacity, and weight) along with the average of our testers’ scores. The backpack weights here come from our testing and, as such, may differ from manufacturer specifications. Prices are current as of the date this article was last updated. Backpacks are organized by frame style and listed in the order in which we recommend them. 

Wraparound Frame Backpacks Specs & Tester Scores

Removable frame backpacks specs & tester scores, rigid frame backpacks specs & tester scores, best backpacking backpacks: wrap-around frames.

Patrice La Vigne

Tested in the Goat Rocks Wilderness by Laura “Chop Chop” Lancaster, Diana Helmuth, Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchell, and Patrice “Steady” La Vigne

Report Card

• Comfort: 4.75
• Load Bearing: 4.75
• Packability: 5
• Accessibility: 5

Key Features

• Price: $350
• Capacity: 50 liters
• Weight: 2 pounds, 8.7 ounces
• Unisex Torso Fit: 16 to 22 inches
• Pockets: Top zip pocket, two side stretch pockets, back mesh pocket, with two inner mesh pockets, two hip belt zip pockets, two oversize shoulder strap zip pockets with external mesh pockets
• Adjustment Points: Hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, adjustable back panel, two sternum straps
• Comfortable up to 40 pounds (as reported by the testers)
• Warranty: 1 year
• Out of stock until September 2024
• Able to perfectly fit a wide range of torso shapes and sizes
• Comfortably carried our testers’ heaviest loads
• Impressive range of motion on par with a frameless backpack
• Shockingly lightweight
• Annoying to put on and take off
• Balance pockets look ridiculous
• Limited warranty

The Aarn Mountain Magic 50 is the real deal, winning top marks from our testing panel and surprising the group with one of the most innovative backpack designs we had ever seen. But this backpack is also bizarre — more than one member of the testing team was skeptical of its purported benefits before trying it themselves. So let’s break down what makes the Aarn Mountain Magic 50 such a game changer. (Hint: It’s about much more than the massive shoulder strap pockets.)

Back Panel Adjustment

The typical order of operations when fitting a backpacking backpack is to first choose one with the correct back panel length for your torso size, or adjust the back panel to the correct length. With the Aarn Mountain Magic Pro, the back panel adjustment comes almost at the end — after you’ve adjusted the hip belt, shoulder straps, and sternum strap. 

A blue loop at the bottom of the pack connects to the top of the frame, such that when you pull down on the backpack, it pulls the frame down until the shoulder straps are resting securely and comfortably on your shoulders. 

Alex Robinson

This shift in the order of operations for fitting a pack made a huge difference in our testers’ ability to adjust the backpack to their frame — it earned nearly perfect marks in this category with only the tester with the shortest torso deducting one point for fit. One reason for this is that by ensuring a perfect fit of the back panel, the load was already balanced between their hips and their shoulders before even getting to the load lifters. “I found that I didn’t need to do much adjustment to these because the weight was distributed so well,” noted Steady, who carried 36 pounds and experienced zero discomfort. 

U-Flow System

Typically, once you’ve got an internal frame backpacking backpack strapped on, your range of motion is going to be somewhat limited. Try to swivel your hips, and the pack will resist you. Try to move your shoulders up and down, and the pack will resist you. That’s partly why frameless packs have become so popular with the fastpacking set — they allow for the greater range of motion needed to run and scamper and break FKTs. 

But the Aarn Mountain Magic Pro allows for a similar range of motion, while still transferring plenty of weight to your hips via metal stays in the frame. That’s because the shoulder straps aren’t stitched into the back panel. Instead, the top of the shoulder straps are attached to the back panel adjustment mechanism at the top and a nylon cord running between the bottom of the shoulder straps that’s tucked into the bottom of the back panel. When you swivel your hips, the pack moves with you. When you move your shoulders up and down, the pack is along for the ride. 

I’m forever turning around while hiking to talk to the person behind me on testing trips. With the rigid frame backpacks I tested, a nagging piriformis injury would flare each time I tried to do this, but I was completely pain-free in the Aarn Mountain Magic Pro. Other testers noted feeling similarly free: “The way the Aarn Mountain Magic Pro moves with you makes you feel limber, solid, flexible in a way that no other pack has made me feel,” said Helmuth. 

Balance Pockets 

The most visually striking part of the Aarn Mountain Magic Pro are the balance pockets on the front. While front shoulder pockets are becoming increasingly common on backpacks, these pockets take it to a new level. Most of the testers for this pack struggled to make a dent on their 7-liter capacity. “With three separate compartments on each side — one mesh and two interior zippered pockets — I would be able to access just about anything quickly,” said Steady. “Some of the things I would like to have more accessible in my daily guiding would be my binoculars, wildflower field guides/books, reading glasses, sat device, bug spray, sunblock in addition to the things I usually put in my hip belt pockets like snacks.”

When it was my turn to test this pack on the final leg of our trip, I tried to put everything in there that I could think of, and there was still plenty of room to spare when another hiker (testing the minimalist Symbiosis pack) who needed me to hold her sunglasses case. I even plunked my liter gatorade bottle in the front mesh pocket and barely noticed a thing. 

And that’s the thing about the balance pockets: You can load them up and still barely notice the added weight. But, you have to be brave enough to do so because — by American standards — they look ridiculous. So ridiculous in fact, that we took the pockets off at one point to make sure that the benefits of the back panel adjustment and U-flow harness stayed intact even without the balance pockets (they do) because more than one tester stated they would not use this pack with the pockets. 

The other problem with the balance pockets is that they make it difficult to put on the backpack because, fully loaded, they weigh down the shoulder straps, narrowing the gap that you have to shimmy your arm through. Some testers responded to this by simply not taking the pack off, including when relieving themselves, and found that the pack’s flexibility made this a viable option. 

Laura Lancaster

Tested by Diana Helmuth on the Oregon Coast Trail with additional input from Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchell and Laura “Chop Chop” Lancaster

• Comfort: 5 
• Load bearing: 4 
• Packability: 4
• Accessibility: 3
• Price: $375
• Weight: 2 pounds, 6.8 ounces 
• Pockets: Two hip belt pockets, two side pockets, back mesh pocket, six shoulder strap pockets
• Adjustment Points: Hip belt, hip belt stabilizers, shoulder straps, back panel, load lifters, and two sternum straps
• Comfortable up to 35 pounds (as reported by testers)
• Warranty: Limited lifetime, provides repairs related to expected wear and tear for a fee
• Very comfortable
• Adjusts to a wide variety of body shapes
• Plenty of pockets
• Takes a while to fit the first few times you use it

Plenty of people just can’t get the frame and structure of a backpacking backpack — ultralight or traditional — to work for them. It’s either too stiff or too tight at the hips, pulling at the shoulders or unbalancing them at larger loads. If that sounds like you, then the Six Moon Designs Swift X backpack may have that Goldilocks configuration you’ve been after.

Despite being the heaviest pack we tested on our Oregon Coast Trail testing trip, the Six Moon Designs Swift X scored highly for fit and comfort. It also took advantage of the wide running vest harness by adding three pockets onto each side, the most of any backpack that we looked at in 2023.

My most experienced tester — Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchell — had discussed Six Moon Designs vest-style backpack when we interviewed her in the fall of 2022 . Unlike traditional backpacks or framed ultralight backpacks that tend to perch weight on your hips and shoulders, the vest style of backpack conforms more closely to your body, almost hugging you (Six Moon also offers this backpack with a more traditional strap configuration). We were curious to see what Diana Helmuth, an ultralight skeptic who swears by her decades-old Dana Designs backpack, would think. Would she miss the more robust internal frame?

Nope. “I had 5 liters of water in that thing, plus the rest of my gear, and I couldn’t believe how my shoulder and hips felt,” she reported. “That was a big eye opener for me compared to my experience with a beefy internal frame.” 

I was similarly impressed with the Six Moons Designs pack, particularly the running vest straps, when I took this one out into the field. Unlike other ultralight packs I’ve used, this one felt like it had a fully supported frame that was also comfortable to use. And the strap system seemed to work equally well on a wide range of body types — a very thin woman stopped me on my hike and asked about the pack. I helped her adjust it and she said that it was one of the most comfortable packs she had tried. 

Best Backpacking Backpacks: Removable Frames

Tested on the Oregon Coast Trail by Laura “Chop Chop” Lancaster, Patrice “Steady” La Vigne, and Diana Helmuth

Report Card 

• Comfort: 3.9 
• Load Bearing: 4.7
• Packability: 4 
• Accessibility: 3.7
• Price: $300 ($380 in Ultra)
• Capacity: 68 liters
• Weight: 2 pounds, 5.3 ounces (2 pounds, 1.8 ounces in Ultra)
• Unisex Torso Fit: 15 to 24 inches
• Pockets: Two hip belt pockets, two side pockets, one large back pocket
• Adjustment Points: Hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, sternum strap
• Comfortable up to 40 pounds (as reported by the testers) 
• Warranty: Lifetime
• Available in high-performing Ultra fabric or more cost-effective Robic 
• Can handle large, heavy loads while scaling down for smaller carries
• Wide range of sizing options makes it easier to get the right fit
• Customizable if you want bottom straps, ice ax loops, etc.
• Limited pockets compared to other models we looked at

There was some controversy with this one. ULA is a mainstay of the ultralight backpacking world, and their packs are regularly seen on long trails across the country. In a lot of ways, they epitomize what ultralight packs are all about: ULA packs pare away everything but the bare essentials. They test the limit of how little structure and frame you can get away with across a range of load weights. They’re tough and durable enough to go the distance on not one but multiple thru-hikes.

ULA also has a lifetime warranty, and — unlike other so-called warranties — thru-hikers have reported that ULA stands by their policy. (One Triple Crowner told us for our story on the best thru-hiking backpacks that ULA offered to send her a brand-new pack after the liner of her ULA Circuit wore down.) The ULA Circuit was also the only pack we looked at where you could choose to keep the price down with the time-tested Robic fabric or upgrade to the best-in-class Ultra, a $100 price difference. 

Ultra is a comparatively newer fabric in the ultralight landscape, that meets or exceeds the durability and waterproofness ability of other best-in-class fabrics while weighing significantly less. It’s also significantly more expensive. We tested a number of packs that used this fabric, including the Durston Kakwa 40, the Palante Desert, Outdoor Vitals CS40, and Zpacks Ultra Arc Haul. One difference with the ULA Ultra Circuit is that in addition to using Ultra 200 (as opposed to 100) on the body of the pack, the bottom is reinforced with Ultra 400 for extra durability. Whether the weight savings (and promised waterproofness) of the Ultra material is worth the extra cost is ultimately a matter of preference — either option would be an excellent choice that would serve you well for multiple thru-hikes.  

The level of support the ULA Circuit provides is perfect for 30-pound loads, and even up to 40-pounds in the event of a long water carry. While some backpacks in this weight category dispense with any sort of frame or structure to the back panel, the ULA Circuit has a hoop running along the outer edges up across the top of the back mesh panel and then meeting again at the bottom. This provides an exceptional level of support for its minimalist design. We had one tester, Diana Helmuth, who is new to ultralight-style gear (she typically uses traditional backpacking backpacks, like the Deuter Aircontact) and she reported that the ULA Circuit caused her zero pain points and was similarly amazed at how well this pack handled the load.

I used the ULA Catalyst (the big brother to the Circuit) years ago on a thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail, but hadn’t picked up a ULA since. When it was my turn to test the ULA Circuit on the third day of testing I was surprised by how much I still liked this style of pack. It swallowed all my gear and cinched down effortlessly around it. The shoulder straps and hip belt were cushioned without overdoing it; the back panel was firm without being stiff. Even though it was the third day of testing, it was the most comfortable carry of the whole testing trip. If I was heading out on a trip with a significant load tomorrow, this is the pack I would bring with me.

When I asked associate gear editor, Ashley Thess, if she would be trading in her current ULA pack (an Ohm) for any of the lighter models she tried out during testing, the answer was a resounding no. Part of what makes the ULA packs so popular is that they are both a great entry-level ultralight backpack and a great choice for the third hike of your Triple Crown.

But not everyone loved it, including Steady, who has completed both the Appalachian and Te Araroa Trails. For her, the comparatively minimalist pockets and access points on the ULA Circuit disrupted her system for packing and accessing gear on trail — and the weight savings of the pack didn’t make that worth the headache. Other testers noted, too, that the pockets on the ULA Ultra Circuit that we tested had less give than other backpacks we looked at (including the Robic version of ULA’s packs). 

Something the ULA Circuit drove home for this testing group is that the switch to ultralight-style backpacks is not just about cutting weight from your kit; it’s about reimagining your relationship with your backpack and, by extension, your gear. Most of us that spend significant time in the backcountry have developed countless routines that we barely register: how we prep our coffee in the morning, how we organize the inside of our tents — and how we get into and out of our backpacks. These routines aren’t small things; they are what keep us going on days when 20 mile per hour wind is sandblasting you in the face (as happened on the second day of our testing trip).

So if Patrice’s frustrations with the top-entry-only access and scant pockets of the ULA Circuit resonate with you, then our recommendation is to look at one of the options on this list with more traditional-style pockets, such as the Granite Gear Crown3 or Osprey Exos. 

But if you’re prepared to really rethink your relationship to your backpack, then we think the ULA Circuit is the place to start. All our testers were impressed with how comfortable it was, even with heavier loads, both compared to traditional-style backpacks and compared to other ultralight models we looked at. So even if you’re just getting started on your ultralight journey, and haven’t yet upgraded to the best ultralight tent or the best ultralight quilt, this pack will work for the kit you have now, and the kit you have in the future. Plus its warranty-backed durability means that you may never need to switch it out.

Hyperlite Southwest 40

Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchell

Tested on the Oregon Coast Trail by Ashley Thess with additional input from Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchell

• Comfort: 4 
• Load bearing: 5 
• Accessibility: 4
• Capacity: 40 liters
• Weight: 1 pound, 14.8 ounces (1 pound, 15.9 ounces for DCH150)
• Unisex Torso Sizes: XS to L (15 to 21 inches) 
• Adjustment Points: Hip belt, shoulder straps, sternum strap
• Comfortable up to 25 pounds
• Warranty: One year
• Available in brick and mortar stores
• Lightweight
• Great load bearing for its weight
• Sternum strap was abrasive to our tester

Hyperlite is one of the most well-known names in ultralight gear, and it’s one of the few sold in brick-and-mortar stores. So we were curious to see how it would stack up next to the cottage companies. If you try out a Hyperlite pack in an REI and love it, does that mean you should go ahead and buy it? Or would it be better to take a gamble on another pack in this list?

After testing the Hyperlite Southwest 40, we feel confident that you should trust your gut and buy that Hyperlite if you like it in the store. It’s comfortable even with the heavier end of ultralight loads (one tester carried 24 pounds in this pack over 15 miles). Despite having only two aluminum stays and no load lifters, Thess said she was able to forget about the pack on her shoulders — the highest of praise, in our opinion.

It also scored high for its accessibility, as it had all of the pockets (two hip belt pockets, two side pockets, and a giant back pouch held closed with an elastic band) we look for from an ultralight backpack, and none of the ones that add extra weight without increasing functionality.

One thing to note is that, unlike the other ultralight backpacks at this price point, the Hyperlite is made from DCH rather than Ultra. DCH is a laminated version of Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), which has many of the same qualities as Ultra. The only concrete difference between the two is that DCH tends to look the worse for wear over time, although its performance is typically unaffected. 

So what are the downsides of this pack? It’s a few ounces heavier than the other packs in Ultra that we looked at (although lighter than the more frame-intensive ULA Circuit). Despite their widespread availability and ubiquity, there isn’t the option to switch to S straps (although our tester did note that the J straps were less extreme than on other ultralight backpacks). The sternum strap is also only minimally adjustable, and for Thess it was pitched too high. She reported needing to stash a bandana underneath to prevent chafing. Finally, it has a limited warranty — only one year. 

Tested in the Goat Rocks Wilderness by Adam Tycaster, Alex Robinson, and Ashley Thess

• Comfort: 2.7
• Load Bearing: 3
• Packability: 4.7
• Price: $400
• Capacity: 45 liters
• Weight: 2 pounds, 5 ounces
• Unisex Torso Fit: 14 to 21.5 inches
• Pockets: Two side stretch pockets, back mesh pocket, two hip belt zip pockets, two zip and two mesh shoulder strap pockets
• Adjustment Points: Attached hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, two sternum straps
• Comfortable up to 25 pounds (as reported by the testers)
• Warranty: Limited lifetime 
• Made out of Ultra, which is waterproof and extremely durable, and seam taped
• Holds a surprising amount of gear for its size and weight
• Uncomfortable shoulder straps (need to be wider)

Black Diamond is a big name in climbing and skiing, but less popular among backpackers. But having used the Black Diamond Trail Zip (one of my best hiking daypacks ), I know they understand the nuances of how load is carried on the body. I was excited to see what they had come up with for the lightweight-set. 

Our testers came away impressed with how well this backpack fit large loads and compressed them down into something that was tidy and manageable. The first tester for this pack was OL’s own editor-in-chief, Alex Robinson, who hiked up 2,000 feet from the trailhead over four miles to intersect with the rest of the crew in the Goat Rocks Wilderness. Robinson was new to lightweight backpacking, so I wasn’t sure what to expect with a pack loaded up with a backpack hunter’s kit (plus photography equipment and whiskey).

But it turns out this backpack had plenty of space, even for an ultralight novice. “Overall, the pack had plenty of storage space and lots of nice pockets on the hip belt, shoulder straps, and interior that I liked,” he reported. Other testers agreed, although they noted that the amount of usable space in the back pocket is restricted by the amount you pack into the main compartment. Thess especially appreciated the shoulder strap pockets which were the perfect size for sunglasses, a phone, and snacks. The other two male testers, however, noted its narrow running-vest style profile cut into their shoulders at loads of 35 pounds and 25 pounds. Thess, who does a lot of trail running, enjoyed the flexible mesh over some of the stiffer padded options in our test. Though, she found herself wishing the hip belt was wider.

Other packing features were minimal. It has a simple roll-top closure (top buckle only) with a single compression strap running to the top. There are two removable compression bungees on the sides that testers noted were too high to really slim down a bulky pack. (The shallow depth of the side pockets fortunately meant they weren’t as important for securing water bottles or trekking poles in place. Unusually, the Black Diamond Beta Light 45 comes with under-carriage straps, but this gear writer suspects most people who use this pack will remove them.

Testers were mixed on the fit on this pack. It received middle-of-the-road marks for load bearing (all three testers kept the aluminum stays in) and lower than average marks for comfort due to the narrow shoulder straps. One bright note was the load lifter straps. These were, by far, the longest load lifter straps in our test, possibly the longest I had ever seen. But, there was also a small triangle of fabric between the load lifters and the connection point on the straps. I liked this, because it gave testers all the satisfaction of really cranking down on the load lifters without running into the all-too-common problem of overdoing it and ending up with a pack that’s pulling too hard on their shoulders or hitting them in the back of the head. 

Ultralight backpackers will also appreciate that this pack is made from Ultra, a best-in-class backpack material that is extremely durable and waterproof. Moreover, the inside of the pack has been seam-sealed, so the thing ought to be, at least at the start, fully waterproof. (Our testing trip was unfortunately completely dry). Backpackers should still use caution, and at least bring a trash compactor bag for their gear, in the event this feature fails in the field. 

Tested on the Oregon Coast Trail by Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchell and Ashley Thess with additional input from Laura “Chop Chop” Lancaster

• Comfort: 2 
• Load bearing: 3 
• Packability: 3
• Price: $250
• Capacity: 36 liters
• Weight: 1 pound, 11.3 ounces
• Unisex Torso Fit: 14.5 to 21.5 inches
• Pockets: two hip belt pockets, two side pockets with vertical zip pocket on the left side, back mesh pocket
• Comfortable up to 35 pounds (as reported by the testers)
• Great pockets
• The most affordable backpack in Ultra that we looked at
• Lack of structure along the back panel requires careful packing

The Durston Kakwa 40 is an experienced ultralight backpacker’s dream. It’s lightweight (27.3 ounces for a medium). It has enough structure to manage heavier loads. It’s got all the pockets you’d expect (plus one extra). It’s made with Ultra, giving you that extra durability and additional waterproofness. And it’s extremely reasonably priced.

While the Durston Kakwa 40 has a frame that’s similar to the ULA Circuit, what it doesn’t have is a foam backing. On most of the back panel, there’s just a thin piece of Ultra fabric between you and the interior contents. Thess struggled with the lack of structure, reporting that a bulge against her back all day was annoying. Like all frameless, or unpadded, backpacks, even slightly less than ideal packing is going to result in serious discomfort. If you’re going frameless for the first time, pay attention to how you’re structuring the items in the Durston Kakwa 40.

Top Shelf, conversely, found the structure to be almost too stiff. While it wasn’t uncomfortable, it was more noticeable than other packs we looked at. After the testing trip, I loaded this pack up with about 35 pounds to see how it would handle the load. (35 pounds is what you should expect to carry in the desert with an all-day water carry but an otherwise ultralight load.) Whereas the pack hugged around my body comfortably at 15 pounds, to get the 35-pound balanced between my hips and my shoulders it had to perch more on my hips that was natural. That would be fine for a short distance (you are going to be drinking all that water, after all); this is not the pack for someone who plans to consistently carry 35 pounds.  

The testers appreciated the details of the Durston Kakwa 40. Generous hip belt pockets, side pockets, and back mesh pockets (one of the few in our test that was truly see-through) made stashing items on the go a breeze. There was also a bonus zip pocket along one of the side pockets for easy access to larger items that don’t fit in your side pocket. Our only ding on the features were the side compression straps, which were somewhat difficult to tighten and release.

Best Backpacking Backpacks: Rigid Frames

Best overall: osprey exos 48 and eja 48.

Tested in the Goat Rocks Wilderness by Adam Tycaster, Sven “Magic” Anderson, Alex Robinson, and Diana Helmuth

• Load Bearing: 4.25
• Accessibility: 3.5
• Price: $240
• Capacity: 48 liters
• Weight: 2 pounds, 12.7 ounces
• Men’s (Exos) Torso Fit: 17 to 23 inches
• Women’s (Eja) Torso Fit: 13 to 19.5 inches
• Pockets: Removable top lid pocket, two side stretch pockets, back mesh pocket, two hip belt zip pockets
• Adjustment Points: Attached hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, adjustable back panel, sternum strap
• Warranty: Lifetime guarantee
• Best-in-class load bearing
• Unparalleled back panel ventilation
• Removable top lid pocket makes this a good option for those transitioning to a lightweight style
• Easy-to-use toggle system to adjust the height of the back panel
• Affordably priced
• Great warranty
• Too-tight pockets
• Fiddly compression straps

It is extremely tough to make a proper rigid-frame load-bearing backpack that comes in under three pounds, but that is exactly what the Osprey Exos is. There is no soft back panel that must be packed exactly so or soft foam that rests right up against your pack. It boasts proper aluminum stays with superb airflow across the back panel. “The Osprey was a very comfortable pack,” noted Magic. “I literally felt like I had an air conditioner on my pack.” Robinson carried this pack on the last (and longest) day, when the mosquitoes were at their worst, noting that “It rode on my back comfortably and I loved the venting.”

When you look at the side profile of the Osprey Exos, you can easily see the broad arc at the back panel, bracketed by the aluminum stays, that’s responsible for all that extra airflow while transferring the majority of the weight to your hips. It’s worth noting that shifting the center of the backpack’s load away from the back can, with too-heavy loads, start to pull back on the shoulders uncomfortably. However, our testers, who carried loads ranging from 25 to 31 pounds, reported no issues with the load pulling away. (Robinson did note that after carrying this backpack for over 10 miles, the bottom of the curve began to dig into his hip uncomfortably.) Testers similarly reported that the Z-shaped compression straps were a bit onerous to tighten and loosen throughout the day, but that they did their job of streamlining their load into a more aerodynamic profile.

What they did have issues with are the pockets. Multiple testers, including Magic, who has Parkinson’s, noted that the tight pockets on the Osprey Exos limited their ability to access gear. Helmuth also noted that the hip belt pockets rode unusually far back on her hips, limiting her ability to use them throughout the day.

One feature I appreciate about the Osprey Exos is that it has a mid-sized removable brain. For backpackers transitioning to a lightweight kit, this can help ease some of the organization retooling that comes with having fewer pockets and straps, while also ensuring they don’t unnecessarily load up the brain with heavy items (making it top heavy). Then, once they’ve got their kit truly dialed in, they can remove the brain, saving a cool 4 ounces in the process. 

My one quibble here is that the alternative closure to this pack is a useless piece of fabric that only exists to cover the drawstring closure. Backpackers who choose to keep the top lid are then carrying around extra weight to no purpose (unless they are brave enough to cut it off permanently). And lightweight backpackers are also getting the short end of the stick as drawstring closures neither provide as much potential carrying capacity as roll-top closures, nor do they pack down smaller loads as cleanly. But these are all comparatively small complaints next to what the Osprey does best: lightweight best-in-class suspension and back ventilation. 

Tested in the Goat Rocks Wilderness by Alex Robinson, Patrice “Steady” La Vigne, Sven “Magic” Anderson, and Diana Helmuth. Individually field tested by Rebecca Ross, Jason Boyle, and Helmuth.

• Load Bearing: 4.25 
• Accessibility: 3.75
• Capacity: 60 liters
• Weight: 2 pounds, 9.6 ounces
• Adjustment Points: Removable hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, sternum strap
• Huge capacity and great load bearing up to 35 pounds
• Plenty of pockets for organization
• Stiff shoulder straps aggravated several testers collar bones
• Too large for smaller backpacking kits

This Granite Gear Crown3 sits at the intersection of traditional backpacking backpacks and newer ultralight models. This pack was a top pick for thru-hikers a decade ago, but has since been eclipsed by the likes of Hyperlite and ULA. But there’s still lots to love here, especially for backpackers interested in experimenting with ultralight backpacking but not interested in overhauling their whole approach to organizing their gear.

I initially sent out the Granite Gear Crown3 with backpackers that were accustomed to traditional (read: heavy and padded) backpacks to see what they would make of it. They were all impressed with how lightweight this pack was and how well it handled its max load (35 pounds). THe group praised the pockets and organization system of this pack, while noting the lack of a sleeping bag compartment took some getting used to. Unlike most lightweight or ultralight backpacks, this one not only has a removable brain, but you can even strap it around the removable hip belt to make an impromptu daypack. But testers were especially impressed with how comfortable this backpack was, with one noting that being able to position more of the pack’s weight on her shoulders helped alleviate discomfort in her hips from conventional-style backpacks.

The testers on the Outdoor Life backpacking gear test, most of whom are familiar with the wider range of lightweight and ultralight backpacking gear available today, were somewhat less impressed. They noted that the stiff and narrow shoulder straps had minimal padding, and testers of both genders reported feeling so much pressure on their clavicle that they were sore even in the days after using this backpack. Magic found that his gear kit, honed on over a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, took up so little room in the comparatively spacious Granite Gear Crown3 that the pack looked only half full. This, in effect, sums up the Granite Gear Crown3: Ultralight backpackers will see it as a traditional style backpack, while traditional backpackers will view it as ultralight. 

Adam Tycaster

But for those testers that had more of a maximalist backpacking style, the inclusion of so many pockets and organizational options came as a relief after using the more minimal designs. “Because I am a pocket lover, I have to praise the four pockets — one of which was the zippered brain pocket and the other three were large and stretchy, which helped with my organization,” noted Steady. “There were lots of unused features that offer even more versatility: four loops on top of the brain, two bungees on the shoulder straps, straps on the outside of the mesh outer pocket.” Even Magic praised how “the large outside pockets made it easy to get things in and out of” — helpful given the Parkinson’s he’s managing while he hikes.  

Notably missing were straps to attach gear to the underside of your backpack, but given how often backpackers use these straps for their sleeping bags (which they should absolutely never do), that is, in this gear tester’s opinion, just as well. As it was, several testers self-reported that they overloaded the generously sized brain pocket with too many odds and ends, unnecessarily top-loading their backpack. If you are looking for an ultralight backpack that will force you into a more streamlined, minimalist backpacking style, this isn’t it. But if you’re looking to save a couple of pounds off your base weight with no loss of carrying capacity, the Granite Gear Crown3 remains one of the most cost-effective options out there and should go straight to the top of your list. 

Read Next: How to Pack a Backpack

Mystery Ranch Bridger 65

Rebecca Ross

Tested individually by Rebecca Ross, Jason Boyle, and Diana Helmuth

• Comfort: 4.3
• Load Bearing: 4.6
• Packability: 4.1
• Accessibility: 3.6
• Price: $375
• Capacity: 63 liters
• Weight: 5.5 pounds
• Women’s Torso Fit: 14 to 22 inches
• Pockets: Removable top lid pocket with inner mesh pocket, two side stretch pockets, back pocket (not mesh) with two inner mesh pockets, two hip belt zip pockets, two shoulder strap pockets
• Adjustment Points: Attached hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, adjustable back panel, two sternum straps
• Comfortable up to 50 pounds (as reported by the testers)
• Comfortable across a wide range of body types
• Pockets and entry points helped keep testers organized

The Mystery Ranch Bridger was the highest scoring backpack among the heavier, traditional-style backpacks that this review series has looked at. If you truly do not care about how much weight you are carrying into the backcountry (and we think you should), then this is hands-down the backpack you should purchase. The testers, who all had the unisex version of the Mystery Ranch Bridger, were effusive in their praise, which ranged from “really comfortable” (Ross) to “insanely comfortable” (Helmuth). Similarly, Boyle headed out with a pack that weighed just over 40 pounds and reported that he thought it would be comfortable up to 50 pounds. 

Part of this is just that the Mystery Ranch Bridger was more padded than anything else we looked at. The hip belt is plush; the shoulder straps are wide, flexible, and padded. But what really won the testers over was that all the adjustment points just worked.

Helmuth noted that part of her positive experience was thanks to the Mystery Ranch video that shows how to wear their packs. “It was different than how I had been taught to wear other internal frame backpacks, and I was glad they had this info,” she says. The Mystery Ranch Bridger received the highest marks for fit across the board of anything we tested.

But it wasn’t just the fit that impressed the testers: They also liked the Mystery Ranch Bridger’s unique take on organization. Rather than relying on an external mesh pocket to store odds and ends, there is a more robust back compartment that zips all the way down, revealing internal mesh pockets that will negate the need for separate stuff sacks for parts of your kit, like toiletries or cooking gear. Similarly, the main compartment of the backpacking backpack could be entered through the top, bottom zip, or by unzipping the front panel in a U shape. Inside were two more side mesh pockets for organization. Even more appealing to the tidy backpackers will be the Velcro straps that tie up the loose ends of webbing after your pack is fully adjusted. 

There were a few dings. Boyle struggled to fit his sleeping bag into the bottom compartment, and the testers that stored their Nalgenes in the side pockets noted that they weren’t deep enough to hold them securely. Helmuth also reported that both of the trekking pole attachments on her pack broke during testing.

Read the full Mystery Ranch Bridger 65 review to learn more.

Tested in the Goat Rocks Wilderness by Diana Helmuth, Laura “Chop Chop” Lancaster, Patrice “Steady” La Vigne, and Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchell

• Comfort: 3.25
• Load Bearing: 4.5
• Packability: 4.25
• Value: 4.75
• Weight: 3 pounds, 9.7 ounces
• Men’s Torso Fit: 15 to 24 inches
• Women’s Torso Fit: 13 to 22 inches
• Pockets: Top lid pocket, two side stretch pockets, back pocket (not mesh), two hip belt zip pockets,
• Comfortable up to 30 pounds (as reported by the testers)
• Hews closely to the tried and true Mystery Ranch designs
• Not as cushioned as our testers wanted for such a rigid-frame backpack
• Heavy for something styling itself lightweight

More than one eyebrow was raised when the Mystery Ranch Radix, a 47-liter, 3.6-pound backpack, styled itself “lightweight.” But this is Mystery Ranch, where a 5- or even 6-pound backpacking backpack is a Tuesday (for context, there are ultralight backpackers whose entire kit weighs less than that). For Mystery Ranch, 3.5 pounds is pretty light, and given Mystery Ranch-founder Dana Gleason’s heralded reputation among backpackers, we wanted to see what it was about. Helmuth was especially curious given that her go-to backpack at home is a Dana Designs ArcFlex Terraplane, also created by Gleason. 

Results were split. Testers that preferred a more traditional-style backpack — a robust frame, plenty of pockets and adjustment points, weight be damned — gravitated toward it, while the testers that preferred ultralight gear were less enthused. The biggest issue was the fit of the frame. The hip belt and back panel were some of the stiffest in our test: perfect if you want to control the position of your backpack and transfer the majority of the weight to your hips. But it does constrict your movement to an extent.

In my case, that meant more pressure on my hips than I prefer while backpacking along rocky terrain like the Goat Rocks. For Top Shelf, the dealbreaker was the long, rigid frame. She noted that despite being in the middle of the range for the torso length that the pack felt tall on her body and the top of the frame would hit her in the back of the head.

The load lifters are positioned low on the pack. Most backpackers using rigid-frame backpacks will crank down on the load lifters further than they are designed to do, because it will transfer even more weight to your hips. But this combined with a tall frame could cause the top of the pack to move uncomfortably close to your head.

Steady was unequivocal in her feelings about the Mystery Ranch Radix: “I love this pack,” she said. “I would use this pack regularly for sure. The organization and access worked for me, and, of course, I loved carrying the load on my hips.” She was especially keen on the cushioned hip belt and shoulder straps. Her only real complaint about the Radix’s fit was that her back ended up a little sweatier in this backpack than it did in the others. Helmuth, however, noted that the Radix “doesn’t hug me the way my Dana Designs or the Mystery Ranch Bridger does,” although she felt it was “still a great pack.” She reported some soreness in her lower back and chafing under her right arm while carrying a load just shy of 34 pounds. 

This pack had fairly standard organizational features for a backpacking backpack, hip belt pockets, side pockets, pocket on a fixed brain. It did lack some stretch in the back pocket, and there were no shoulder strap pockets. It also sported a single zipper running down the length of the backpack, which is a fairly iconic feature for Mystery Ranch. Generally, this testing group takes a dim view of zippers on backpacking backpacks, as they are prone to clogging with dirt and failing. It was nice to see this flagship feature carried over to Mystery Ranch’s entree to lightweight backpacking, but we look forward to seeing what that team comes up with in the future. 

Tested in the Goat Rocks Wilderness by Adam Tycaster, Ashley Thess, Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchell, and Sven “Magic” Anderson

• Comfort: 2.5
• Load Bearing: 2.75
• Value: 2.25
• Price: $300
• Weight: 1 pound, 15.3 ounces
• Men’s Torso Fit: 18 to 20 inches
• Women’s Torso Fit: 16 to 18 inches 
• Pockets: Two side stretch pockets, back pocket (not mesh), two hip belt zip pockets, one shoulder strap pocket
• Adjustment Points: Attached hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, sternum strap
• Under 2 pounds
• Great water bottle pockets
• Stiff, inflexible frame
• Doesn’t carry heavy loads well

Testers were surprised at the end of the test when I revealed both the weight and the price point of the REI Flash Air 50. At just under 2 pounds, it was right in line with the likes of the Hyperlite Southwest and Gossamer Gear Gorilla for weight, easily beating out the Osprey Exos, Aarn Mountain Magic Pro, and ULA Circuit. But it was more expensive than testers, accustomed to REI as a best-in-class value brand, were expecting. And ultimately, given the quality of other options on this list, they didn’t think that the weight savings were justified by the pack’s design at this price point.

Unlike other packs, testers reported a myriad of small complaints with this pack with no clear pattern. Magic reported that it didn’t move with his body like other backpacks at this weight typically do, while Top Shelf and Thess said that the frame felt stiff and inflexible. Thess even commented that she struggled with portions of the frame digging into her torso, while there was a general consensus that the pack didn’t carry well even with sub-30-pound loads. Top Shelf also noted that the laminate being used tended to be a bit sticky in humid weather. 

Two bright spots with the REI Flash air was the inclusion of separate water bottle compartments that was a boon for individuals that don’t use hydration bladders. Testers also noted that the hip belt on the REI Flash Air was especially comfortable, with one tester noting that if you could swap these two features onto the Osprey Exos, you’d have the perfect backpack. Magic also said that the easy-to-access water bottle pockets were a game change for his Parkinson’s.

I was a bit surprised at how little the testers responded to the REI Flash Air 50. It has many popular features: roll-top lid, deep pockets at the side and back, a Y-strap that can be used to secure additional gear on top of the pack, and a shoulder strap pocket. But when the group sat down to go through the packs, there was little to say about the REI Air Flash 50 compared to other packs that elicited strong feelings in either direction. In the end, I wonder if it was this unexpected marriage of features: a backpack that presented and weighed-in as ultralight but then tried to carry like a traditional backpack that just didn’t sit right, leaving the testers feeling that this backpack simply wasn’t for them even if there wasn’t anything all that wrong with it. 

Tested on the Oregon Coast Trail by Laura “Chop Chop” Lancaster and Patrice “Steady” La Vigne

• Packability: 3.5
• Price: $370
• Capacity: 53 liters
• Weight: 1 pound, 11 ounces
• Unisex Torso Fit: 18 to 22 inches
• Pockets: Two hip belt pockets, two side pockets, back mesh pocket
• Adjustment Points: hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, sternum strap
• Warranty: Lifetime 
• Great back panel padding and ventilation
• Roomy back mesh pocket
• Profile is somewhat slack 
• Aggressive J straps were less comfortable for our testers 

There are a lot of positives about the Outdoor Vitals CS40 Ultra. It’s lightweight, thanks in part to its 200D Ultra exterior. It has a great back mesh pocket that not only holds all of your small items, but also allows you to see where they are — decidedly not the case for all the mesh pockets we looked at. It’s got plenty of capacity and it carries loads reasonably well, producing only a minor crick in one tester’s shoulder after 10 miles and 1,200 feet of elevation gain through muddy terrain. 

But where this pack really stood apart from the crowd was in its ability to manage sweat along the shoulder straps and back panel. Traditionally, the sweatiest long-distance hikers have gravitated toward Osprey’s packs, including the 40-ounce Exos, because of its best-in-class back panel ventilation. And this isn’t a small point: For some backpackers, back panel chafe can be a debilitating, hike-ending issue. That makes the vast majority of ultralight backpacks a virtual nonstarter.

Steady (who says she sweats “just by looking at the sun”) took this pack out on day four, when temperatures climbed into the upper 70s right as we hit a destroyed section of trail that necessitated some bushwhacking. Not only did she find the back panel to be the most comfortable of everything she tried, but she also didn’t feel any sweat against her back. That’s because, in addition to being ventilated, the padding is also raised off the middle portion of the Outdoor Vitals CS40 Ultra, and overlaid with a mesh layer that allows some airflow to move beneath it. If you’re used to using an Osprey pack, you might be disappointed with the level of airflow provided, but if you are looking for an upgrade from a typical ultralight backpack, this is a massive improvement.

The biggest ding against the Outdoor Vitals CS40 Ultra is that it looks a little sloppy. The mesh of the back pocket is a bit loose, the roll-top bunched up, the side pockets drooped. While this is ultimately more an aesthetic concern than a practical one, at this price point we’d expect a backpack to look a lot sharper. For this testing group — all women — the aggressive J-straps also proved noticeably less comfortable than other models we tested. If your chest has any bulk to it, check out the Duston Kakwa 40 or the ULA Circuit.

Deuter Aircontact Core 65 +10

• Packability: 4.5
• Capacity: 60 liters (can expand to 70 liters)
• Weight: 5 pounds, 1.5 ounces 
• Unisex Torso Fit: 16.5 to 24.5 inches
• Pockets: Two top lid pockets, two side stretch pockets, back mesh pocket, two hip belt zip pockets
• Comfortable up to 45 pounds (as reported by the testers)
• Has every adjustment point and pocket you expect from a backpacking backpack
• A great match for more typically masculine builds
• Can be difficult for women to balance
• Some durability issues with the mesh

Boyle was effusive in his praise of the Deuter Aircontact Core. He noted several times on his testing sheet that the pack fit amazingly well and that it was the most comfortable pack in the test series. Notably, it supported the typically heavy loads he carries into the Appalachians, and was simple to fit to his frame using the various adjustment points, including the Variglide back panel adjustment. Boyle also liked that he could move the compression straps around, which made it easier to change up his load when he was out guiding clients through Shenandoah National Park.

He noted disappointment that the Deuter Aircontact Core did not include an integrated rain cover (which comes with other Deuter backpacks), and that the mesh sections were slightly fragile if rubbed against an abrasive surface, like a rock wall. But these, for him, were small points. “No matter how much weight I was carrying, I never really felt it,” he says. “The pack fit so well, I could almost forget it was there.”

This turned out to be at odds with both Helmuth’s and Ross’s experience. While Helmuth was out on an overnight to the Carbon River in Mount Rainier National Park, she found that when the load lifters were loose, the weight of the pack settled on her hips, but when she cranked them down to help move the weight to her shoulders, the top of the pack would hit the top of her head. Ross reported that her smaller physical stature made this one-size-fits-all backpack even more of a no-go. “The internal frame of the backpack hit the back of my head at such an uncomfortable spot that I turned my overnight backpacking trip into a day hike,” she says. Ross also found that the weight in the pack kept unbalancing while she was out testing, so that the pack repeatedly tipped to one side.

Overall, the ergonomics of this backpack, including its hip belt, seemed to pair significantly better with men’s more typically streamlined builds. (For this test, Boyle was sent the SL pack, which is considered the women’s fit.)

All three testers noted that the organization of this pack epitomized what they look for in the features of a backpack. A healthy sized sleeping bag compartment. A stretchy mesh back pocket. Two side pockets for water bottles and two hip belt pockets for snacks. A top lid that fits all their important items with room to spare. The top of the main compartment can also be pulled up to expand the pack from 60 liters to 70 liters. Anyone with a typically masculine build that prefers traditional-style backpacking backpacks would be well served by the Deuter Aircontact Core. 

Read the full Deuter Aircontact Core review to learn more.

Laura “Chop Chop” Lancaster

• Comfort: 3.2
• Load bearing: 4
• Accessibility: 4.3
• Capacity: 65 liters (Baltoro); 60 liters (Deva)
• Weight: 4 pounds, 14 ounces (Baltoro)
• Baltoro Torso Fit: 16 to 21 inches
• Deva Torso Fit: 14 to 20 inches
• Pockets: Three top lid pockets, one side stretch pocket, one water bottle holder, back mesh pocket, two back zip pockets, two hip belt zip pockets
• Thoughtful design elements, including a dedicated water bottle pouch
• Contoured hip belt works well with typically feminine bodies
• Velcro back panel is easy to inadvertently create a lopsided profile
• Pre-curved hip belt was uncomfortable for our male tester

If the Deuter Aircontact Core fit my male testers great, while leaving my female testers struggling, the Gregory Baltoro and Deva were the opposite. Boyle tested the men’s version of this pack (the Baltoro), and reported that, despite being quite padded, the hip belt felt tight against his hips. Part of this was that the curved shape was somewhat misaligned with his frame; at one point, leaving his phone inside the hip belt pocket resulted in a bruise. 

Ross’s and Helmuth’s experience with the Gregory Deva (the women’s version of the same pack) was, fortunately, a different story. Despite initially struggling with the Velcro adjustment panel (lopsided shoulder straps resulted in pain in her left trapezoid), Helmuth felt that, overall, the pack fit her frame well. Ross had a similar experience with the fit of this backpack, giving it a 10 for fit and an 8 for comfort.  

But what really won them over, winning 10 points from each, was the Gregory Deva’s approach to storage and accessibility. Ross liked the three different compartments for the brain. “It allowed me to keep my smaller items organized,” she says. Ross also appreciated being able to easily access the main compartment without unbuckling the brain, as it saved her time when searching for a specific item. Both Ross and Helmuth also commented on how easily accessible their Nalgenes were while hiking, thanks to the dedicated side water bottle holder.

While neither Ross nor Helmuth had any particular difficulty fitting their shoulder season gear into the backpack, Boyle found that his larger gear kit was difficult to fit into the available pockets. “It’s the smallest packing, 65-liter pack I have used,” he says. 

Read the full Gregory Baltoro and Deva review to learn more.

Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 40

Tested on the Oregon Coast Trail by Jac “Top Shelf” Mitchell and Ashley Thess

• Comfort: 3 
• Accessibility: 2
• Weight: 1 pound, 2.8 ounces
• Available Torso Sizes: 16 to 26 inches
• Pockets: Two side pockets, back mesh pocket
• Warranty: Two years
• Very lightweight
• Great load bearing
• Fewest pockets in our test

The Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra is exactly what it promises: It strips away everything you don’t absolutely need and uses the absolute lightest materials for everything else. And it does that while staying true to the needs of thru-hikers. It does not skimp on load bearing, boasting both load lifter straps and carbon fiber stays that provide significant structure to this pack. 

It does, however, skimp on features — too much, it turned out, for our testers. We should also note that it’s expensive, along with the Black Diamond Beta Light, it’s one of the most expensive we’ve ever tested. But it’s also one of the lightest packs we’ve ever tested. 

Both of the testers for this pack were impressed with how well the Zpacks Ultra Arc Haul handled the loads typical of ultralight backpackers, thanks in part to the stiff back panel that helped to distribute weight. They even pushed the weight to 26 pounds by strapping a water bladder to the pack during a dry section of the hike. The tester who hauled that load noted that the Zpacks Ultra Arc Haul handled the additional pounds well given how unideal the setup was. And the adjustments were comfortable and conformed to the testers’ bodies the way they wanted them to. This is, after all, an ultralight backpack’s most important job, and the Zpacks Ultra Arc Haul gets it done. 

So what didn’t they like? Both testers struggled with accessibility with the Zpacks Ultra Arc Haul, even compared to similar models like the Durston Kakwa 40 and the Palante Desert. There were no pockets on the hip belts, or on the shoulder straps (Zpacks does sell these as fairly pricey additional add-ons), so to get anything out of their packs they had to stop to take it off. They also had durability concerns with some of the non-Ultra parts of the pack — particularly the mesh on the back pocket.

Other Backpacking Backpacks We’ve Tested

I tested the Gossamer Gear Gorilla on OL’s inaugural backpacker gear test, and came back less enthused than I had hoped with the pack’s overall performance given its reputation. It adhered to a minimal design and frame — no load lifters in sight — but was less compact than other backpacking backpacks in that style. The net effect was that even with a lighter load than typical for me, I felt the pack pulling down and out from my shoulders more than I would have liked. Since that test, Gossamer Gear has added load lifters to the Gorilla. While I expect this will help to alleviate some of the issue, I have yet to test this new version out. 

My smallest tester, Rebecca Ross, was impressed by how well the Kelty Coyote fit her frame, making that backpacking backpack an especially great budget pick for individuals with short torsos — which is a fairly uncommon find. Unfortunately, that backpacking backpack has since been discontinued. 

Helmuth, Boyle, Ross, and I all tried out the Big Agnes Parkview and Garnett with high expectations, given Big Agnes’s reputation among backpackers for their tents. While there were aspects of this pack that they thought were best-in-class, including its approach to the back panel adjustment, generous side mesh pockets, and the trash can, its overall stiffness (even over multiple trips) made it one of the least comfortable packs we’ve looked at. 

Things to Consider When Choosing a Backpacking Backpack

Frame Style

The vast majority of contemporary backpacking backpacks have rigid internal frames. This, when it’s working correctly, transfers much of the weight of your pack from your shoulders to your hips, which are almost always stronger than your shoulders. And for some people, this style of backpack works great. Unfortunately, you don’t have to spend much time on trail to recognize that this style of backpack doesn’t work for plenty of others.

The problem with rigid internal frames is that the weight and pressure of a heavy load is always going somewhere, and if you can’t get the right fit for your body type, pain points crop up. Telltale signs are bruised hips, bruised collarbones, packs that are hanging too low or too high — all evidence that the user is trying to shift the weight around on their body to get a more comfortable fit. If that sounds familiar, you may want to try a different backpacking backpack style. 

Another style of backpacking backpack doesn’t try to balance the weight on your hips, but instead wrap around your body so that the weight is balanced everywhere equally. These backpacks, which I’ve termed here “wrap-around” frame backpacks typically have unusual adjustment points that may take some time to get used to. 

A third style of backpack has a removable frame. With these backpacks, you can alternate between a more rigid structure that positions the weight on your hips and a softer structure that hugs the body and places more weight on your shoulders. This latter style is more popular with lightweight and ultralight backpackers that have smaller loads. 

The temptation is to always get a backpacking backpack that is slightly bigger than you think you’ll need, just in case. But I would caution you to go in the opposite direction, err on the side of something that’s a bit too small. Backpacking at its best is an exercise in minimalism. The fewer extravagances — like backpacking chairs or solar showers or a change of outfit for every day — you carry, the less weight you’ll carry. And when you carry less weight, you can go farther and feel stronger.

For most backpackers, who are heading out for an overnight or a couple of nights at a time, a 45-liter backpack will offer plenty of capacity for the essentials. If you have a week or more trip in your sights, then a backpack in the range of 55 or 60 liters would be appropriate. Backpacks that are 70 liters or larger are best reserved for either guides or individuals carrying additional gear for climbing or hunting objectives. 

For decades, backpacking backpacks were dominated by unnecessarily heavy, overly padded options that were too large and complicated. In recent years, with the mainstreaming of ultralight-style backpacking, there has been a subtle shift away from more fully featured options toward a more streamlined minimal style. The challenge for most backpackers is finding the sweet spot for their particular biomechanics and packing style. Unless you have a dialed-in ultralight kit, I would encourage most backpackers to look for a pack in the range of two to three pounds, which is the sweet spot for gear that isn’t adding unnecessary bulk but can still handle loads of up to 30 pounds or more. 

For many, the hardest adjustment with switching from a more traditional backpacking backpack to a lightweight or ultralight model is the difference in pocket design. The most noticeable difference is the use or exclusion of a lid on the top of a backpack, often referred to as the brain. Traditional-style backpacks almost always have this feature, and many find them convenient for storing and organizing small odds and ends — Helmuth in particular is miffed if there isn’t also a zipped pocket on the underside of the lid explicitly for storing her bathroom supplies. Lightweight and ultralight backpacks almost never have this lid. For those manufacturers and their fan base, the added weight of that pocket doesn’t justify its holding capacity, and there is a tendency for users to inadvertently overload with electronic devices, sunscreens, headlamps, and other small, dense items that can result in a top-heavy backpack. 

Another difference is in the sleeping bag compartment, which are not included on lightweight or ultralight backpacks but are often considered an essential feature on traditional backpacking backpacks. (It’s this gear tester’s opinion that if digging out your sleeping bag and pad from your backpack is arduous then there is probably too much stuff in your backpack that you aren’t using.)

Conversely, lightweight and ultralight backpacks often include shoulder straps pockets, so that users can more easily access small odds and ends while hiking. They also tend toward generously sized and stretchy back pockets. However, even with these additions, the overall effect is fewer pockets and organizational options. 

Given that boutique goods are almost always more expensive than mass-produced goods, it’s no wonder that so many people have the misconception that lightweight and ultralight backpacking gear made by small companies (sometimes only consisting of a handful of people) would be more expensive. But when it comes to lightweight and ultralight gear, the inverse is often true. For instance, Granite Gear, which has only a couple dozen employees, had one of the lowest priced packs on this list. 

Yes, a 50-liter pack is enough for backpacking, although for longer treks you may need to be judicious about what you do and do not bring. 

The size backpack that you need for three days of backpacking will depend on the size of your gear, but most people can get away with a 50-liter or less. The biggest determining factor for most beginning backpackers is the size of their sleeping bag (which should be kept inside your pack, to protect it from the elements). If yours is a bulky synthetic bag, aim for a slightly larger backpack. If it’s a svelte high-fill power down model, you can go smaller. 

You typically cannot use a 60-liter pack as a carry-on. The exception to this is frameless or minimalist backpacking backpacks, as the longer frames on these can sometimes be compressed down far enough to squeak by. If you are looking for a backpacking backpack that can double as a carry-on, it’s better to go with 45 liters or less, and cross your fingers that the airline attendants turn a blind eye when you stroll down the air bridge.

Generally, you want to aim for a total weight, including food, water, gear, everything, of no more than 20 percent of your total body weight. However, the reality is that some packs carry heavier loads better than others. If you prefer to carry a heavy load when backpacking, refer to our testers’ take on the maximum carrying capacity for each backpack in the above story. 

Final Thoughts

Choosing a comfortable, well-fitting backpacking backpack is foundational to your experience in the backcountry. Our experienced testers reported back on how some of the most popular models on the market interacted with the ergonomics of their body types. In most cases, these varied significantly: One tester’s perfect pack would be a nightmare for someone else. When choosing a backpack, remember that your experience and comfort — not the wisdom of the crowd — is paramount. Here is our take on the best backpacking backpacks for different body types.

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Backpacking Vietnam: Northern Adventures

Travel the best of Vietnam and meet new friends! Check out everything included in the 15-day tour package below.

• 20 Meals (Vegetarian Options)
• All Trips and Excursions
• All Accommodation
• Airport Pick-Up & Drop-Off
• All In-Country Transport
• Free BT T-Shirt
• Private Facebook Group
• Full Tour Photo Album
• No Hidden Charges
• International Flights
• Travel Insurance
• Visa (Required)

I had amazing time on the Vietnam tour this July, I would highly recommend to anyone thinking of doing this tour, we had so much fun. Once in a lifetime experience! Aoife - December Tour

Travel over 750 kilometres to five locations - from Halong Bay down to Hoi An - on the ultimate Vietnam adventure!

• Length 15 Days
• Avg. Age 20-45
• No. Of Activities 27
• No. Of Meals 20
• Avg. Group Size 5 - 20
• Operator Backpacking Tours
• Starting Point Hanoi
• Ending Point Hoi An

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Tour Itinerary

Meet & Greet

Your Vietnam adventure begins! Settle in at the hotel, meet the Vietnam tour guides, and get to know your travel mates before a complimentary welcoming dinner that samples Vietnam's most delicious dishes. Then, a night out in the ever-bustling streets of Hanoi.

• Meals Included Dinner
• Room Type Hotel
• Activities Included Airport Transfer, Vietnamese Feast!

1000 Year Old Sights In Hanoi

Take in the sights of Vietnam’s 1000-year-old capital city! Explore all the must-see sights of Hanoi including Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, Ngoc Son Temple, and One Pillar Pagoda. Finish your day of exploring with the perfect post-sightseeing activity -- a one-hour, traditional Vietnamese massage.

• Meals Included Breakfast
• Activities Included Hanoi sights, Language Lesson, Massage

Hello, Halong Bay

Cruise on our privately reserved sleeper boat as we voyage through this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sunset cocktails from the top deck - just in time for happy hour - is a can't-miss experience. Sit down for a never-ending feast afterward that gives way to nighttime festivities including your first Vietnamese cooking lesson of the tour. Consider this something like a cocktail cruise with a world-class view.

• Meals Included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Room Type Overnight Cruise
• Activities Included Halong Bay Cruise, Kayaking, Cooking Lesson

Halong Bay To Tam Coc

Good morning, Vietnam! Catch sunrise on the top deck with your morning cup of coffee before we set out to explore Halong's Thien Canh Son Cave. Then, enjoy a lunchtime feast aboard the boat before heading to Tam Coc to kick back and relax at our ever-welcoming countryside resort - pool table, fishing pond, and stunning scenery included.

• Meals Included Breakfast, Lunch
• Activities Included Thien Canh Son Cave

Lying Dragon Mountain & River Tour

Climb the 500 steps of Hang Mua - Lying Dragon Mountain - to the picturesque view of the elaborate system of mountains, caves, and rivers below. Unsurprisingly, this was once the choice spot of Vietnam's former King where he held days-long celebrations that included dancing, feasting, and drinking rice wine. Afterward, we cycle our way through ricefields before taking a ride down the river (and through the caves) in a traditional sampan boat.

• Activities Included Hang Mua, Caves, Cycling, Boat ride

Primate Centre & Jungle Trek

Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre and come face to face with some of the world’s most critically endangered primates! Many of these species have been pushed to the brink of extinction - some being one of less than 100 left in the entire world - making the work of this incredible rehabilitation organisation that much more important. But first, a jungle trek through the surrounding National Park. Then hop on the sleeper bus and wake up in the lazy town of Phong Nha.

• Room Type Sleeper Bus
• Activities Included Cuc Phuong National Park ,Primate Centre, Jungle Trek

Free Time In Phong Nha

Explore the beauty of Phong Nha or post up by the hotel pool! This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains the oldest karst mountains in Asia - clocking in at over 400 million years old. There are many caves and waterfalls to explore for the restless. Paradise Cave is the longest cave is part of the longest cave system in the world and makes for an unforgettable day trip! For the not-so-restless, we suggest poolside beverages.

• Activities Included Free Time

The Dark Cave Experience

Ziplining, kayaking, and caving knee-deep in mud. What to expect? Start with the longest zipline in Vietnam before heading in for some fun in the mud. The natural mud bath is thousands of years old; you can even see ancient fossils on the cave walls. After your mud bath, kayak adventures before we finish with a refreshing swim, obstacle course above the water (optional but highly suggested), and float in the Chay River.

• Activities Included Ziplining, Kayaking, dark cave

Beach Time & Ancient Hue

Early bus down to Vietnam's Ancient Capital of Hue! En route, we stop off for a recharge with some much-needed beach time. Sunbathe, swim, and soak in the first of several beach stops on your journey. Then we weave our way into Hue for two nights in the centre of a historic, vibrant city. For evening times, there are many markets with much to explore, eat, and drink just near the hotel.

• Activities Included Beach Time

Explore The Former Capital

For a century, Hue was the capital of Vietnam. Spend the day seeing the remnants and relics of those times at this UNESCO World Heritage Site -- such as the Imperial City and Forbidden Purple City. Afterward, we volunteer some time at a local school to play games, help out with English-speaking lessons, and experience an entire different side of Vietnamese culture. Then, a Backpacking Tours exclusive experience as we stop at a local nunnery for a full vegan lunch prepared by the welcoming women who explain life here and their fascinating life stories. Finish up poolside with a beverage!

• Activities Included Hue - Sights, Dong Thien Pagoda

Drive The Hai Van Pass to Hoi An

The Hai Van Pass: 19 kilometres of roadway that towers above the dramatic coastline of Central Vietnam. Jeremy Clarkson of the BBC's Top Gear praised this drive as "...a deserted ribbon of perfection -- one of the best coast roads in the world." Photo stops will be made! Plus, a pitstop for a swim and stretch at a little-known natural spring along the way with some of the most underrated views in all of Vietnam. Final destination: Hoi An - the City Of Lanterns.

• Activities Included Nhi Ho Waterfall, Hai Van Pass, Kindergarten

Free Time in Hoi An

Explore the uniqueness of this ancient port town and UNESCO World Heritage Site… or just enjoy the white sands and warm waters at An Bang Beach. Bamboo raft rides are also a cultural experience not to be missed. Time to hit the brakes on the bus rides and enjoy five days experiencing the eclectic charm of The City of Lanterns - Hoi An's well-deserved nickname. Chilling out at the hotel pool is also an option! But free time is your time - we suggest, you decide.

Ricefield Cycle To An Bang Beach

Bike to the beach for some group bonding (and beach beverages). The quick, flat ride brings us through the vibrant city centre of Hoi An, through the rolling ricefields, to the sea. Catch some sun, rent a paddleboard, sample the local seafood, and enjoy Hoi An's most stunning beach. Not feeling beachtime? The tailor-made clothing is world-famous (and incredibly affordable) or you can just hang by the hotel pool.

• Activities Included Bike Tour

Live Like The Locals

Cycle through the ricefields to the organic farm for a day of unique cultural experiences with the farmers who call this home. Stop by a local farmer's market for an ingredient lesson, make rice paper from scratch, get in the garden alongside local farmers, and learn to make four mouth-watering Vietnamese dishes from scratch! And don't forget the well-deserved foot massage to finish off your day of adventure.

• Activities Included Cycling, Work with Farmers, Cooking Lesson, Foot Massage

Not Goodbye! Until Next Time

Enjoy a final breakfast together and say your goodbyes and until-next-times before heading to Danang airport or further on in your travels. Airport drop off is included in the tour and available throughout the day. The tour has finished but your Vietnam adventure will stay with you for a lifetime!

• Activities Included Airport Transfer

Optional Extras

Extra night in vietnam.

Extra accommodation before/after your tour, including breakfast & airport transfer.

Flight to Hanoi

If you prefer a transport to your next destination, add this option and we'll help arrange it for you.

Flight to Ho Chi Minh

Private room 13 nights (vietnam).

You have the option to book a private room for yourself throughout the tour. Please note that on the sleeper bus days, private room is not possible.

Tour Highlights

• St. Joseph Cathedral
• Language Lesson
• Halong Bay Luxury Cruise (2D/1N)
• Lunch & Learn At Nunnery
• Temple of Literature
• Bicycle Tour of Tam Coc
• Primate Rescue Centre
• Jungle Trek
• Dark Cave Ziplining
• Hang Mua View Point
• Imperial City
• Capital Tour of Hue
• Drive The Hai Van Pass
• Dong Thien Pagoda
• Cooking Lesson - Halong Bay
• Local School Visit
• Nhi Ho Waterfall
• Kayak In Halong Bay
• Sunrise Tai-Chi Lesson
• Cuc Phuong National Park
• Sleeper Bus
• Phong Nha Kayaking + Water Sports
• Phong Nha Mud bathing
• Squid Fishing
• Presidential Palace
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

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