Backpacks

A breathable pack for sweaty testers.

A low-profile bag that the wily climbers loved.

This versatile pack works equally well for big dayhikes and whirlwind travel.

A look back at the packs we've loved for years that are still at the top of their class.

It’s light, low-profile, and “perfect in that there’s nothing left to take away,” according to one tester.

This retro-looking rucksack sports a single, roomy packbag that can easily compress low-volume loads. It’s well-suited for dayhikes, sessions at the crag, or anyone who’s tough on gear.

Use this streamlined chameleon as a stand-alone hydration daypack (it comes with a 2-liter reservoir) or slip it into the sleeve of your big pack and use it for day jaunts or summit sprints from basecamp.

Ultralight, waterproof, and comfortable—the top-loading Alpha FL 30 hits a rare trifecta. Plus, its shape provides unmatched mobility.

It’s ideal for newbies who need some packing guidance and type As who like to have a precise spot for every little thing.

A breathable, stable trampoline-style multiday pack.

This top-loader is big-load friendly, built like a tank, and has great access.

This 85-liter behemoth manages the heaviest loads.

The Flash has been a perennial favorite for its low weight and price, and female testers raved about its new women’s suspension system.

This burly, big-volume, well-organized pack boasts a unique system of exterior straps that lend it year-round performance—without adding a lot of weight.

It’s as light as some daypacks, but the Rondane has the muscle to carry weeklong loads.

The Z nails the tester wish list: ventilated trampoline suspension with a super-stable carry; low weight for the capacity; and smart, uncluttered organization.

The South Col proved ideal for mountaineers: comfortable and stable mile after mile with loads up to 60 pounds.

This frameless little pack is a great all-arounder for bike commuting and dayhikes.

A durable, ultralight pack that's affordable.

Check out Glenna Xie's author page.

The versatile gear-hauling system by Boreas Gear.

A hearty hydration pack that's also water resistant.

Stay hydrated on the trail with these innovative filters and containers.

A light 50-liter pack with minimalist suspension.

We tested a slew of load monsters to find the best in comfort, support, and organization.

3 great ways to store accessories, water, and food.

Find the best pack for your needs with these four field-tested models.

Hike hard in hot weather with this well-ventilated pack from Mountain Hardwear.

Enjoy big pack performance with this light-weight bargain pack from Osprey.

This adjustable pack from The North Face provides all-day comfort, even with a heavy load.

Extend the life of your pack, sleeping bag, and tent with these tips.

Treat your back to the perfect load-hauler.

Check out these additional tester picks.

For big, big loads (think parents or mountaineering) this pack is ideal.

The more you pack, the better it will carry.

Clever features, plentiful pockets, and easy-access side zips have earned this pack "best organization."

Best all-around: this pack will melt into your body and accomodate any quick-access needs as it supports over 50 pounds.

Mountainsmith Lariat 65 is a big-load bargain pack that'll last.

Light weight and load-bearing: Try this clean-design, ultralight pack.

Cure for back sweat takes the form of pack with the Kelty Fleet 55.

This pack's balance and close-fit is made complete with it's most exhaustive compression system.

This pack will fine-tune fit, carry 50-pound loads, and ease the burden with its ultralight weight.

With incredible load distribution, this pack's easy on the shoulders.

This "best travel pack" can check as luggage, keep your electronics dry, and accomodate your travel needs.

Don't judge a pack by its price: this pack's a loaded bargain.

Tough fabric, compact, and room to spare. What more could you want?

Anywhere, any activity, this pack will carry your goods from bushwacking in Arizona to climbing Mt. Sneffels with an ice axe.

In constant downpour, the impermeable thermoplastic, PU-coated nylon material of this pack kept our tester's gear bone-dry.

Best-in-class air circulation keeps sweat off your back while maintaining stability, ideal for intense dayhikes.

This Mammut pack hugs your back for balance while maintaining freedom for movement, creating the ideal alpine pack.

Stability for heavy loads from a stiff nylon framesheet allow for minimal rubbing and improved balance with this "carry-anything workhorse" daypack.

Durable, efficient, comfortable, surprisingly roomy, this pack survived 200 trail miles and 200,000 air miles and landed its spot as "best all-around."

A 20-liter pack that offers all-day comfort.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

A pack made for multi-day ski touring.