The Best Backpacking Packs of 2023
Our team of testers vetted 20 new rucksacks. These ones came out on top.
Our team of testers vetted 20 new rucksacks. These ones came out on top.
From the backcountry to the airport, this pack has you covered
A reliable workhorse that will last for years
You know hydration is critical—in life, and especially in the outdoors, where exertion and extreme temperatures can dehydration a dangerous threat. Unfortunately, too often people visit the outdoors and don’t carry or drink enough water. Hydration packs not only solve the problem of making sure you have enough water on hand—they keep water readily accessible so you can sip as you go. Plus, they’re built for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. Since recreation pros need to keep their hands free, the design of hydration packs is perfect for such pursuits. Besides, the stylish backpacks also provide bonus features like extra storage compartments. We found the three best hydration packs for you.
Finding the right backpack isn’t always a quick or easy process, but you’ll thank yourself later for investing the time now.
Rich culture and easy access to some of Europe’s most stunning scenery? Count us in.
Best load-hauler backpack from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Best features in a backpack from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Most stable backpack from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
The best-carrying avy pack from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Best avy pack for overnights from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Best backpack for organization from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
This pack tames the biggest loads.
Serious about backpacking and photography? You'll love this camera-ready pack.
A light, low-bulk airbag system means less weight on your back and more space for your gear.
No need for fussy rain covers or liners with this waterproof pack
Save big on a full-featured ski pack.
When you hear the call to get out and go, the Granite Gear Crown VC60 is the ultralight performance pack for you.
One of the best packs gets better.
One of the best packs gets better.
This pack raises the bar for big-load ventilation.
This pack raises the bar for big-load ventilation.
No-compromise features with bargain price make this pack shine.
This battery-operated, fan-powered airbag system takes the hassle and uncertainty out of a piece of critical safety gear.
Our team loved this stabilty of this pack for carrying skis and tools, and raved about the back panel that zips open.
This pack is waterproof, practically weightless for the size, and as far as we could tell, indestructible.
This multiday pack is perfect for type As who love organization, ventilation, and maximum adjustability.
This versatile pack works eqally well for big dayhikes and whirlwind travel.
Improve comfort and stability.
Learn to pick the winter pack that's right for you with contributing editor Kelly Bastone.
An easily adjustable pack for a comfortable fit.
"This is the best-fitting pack I’ve ever used," said our tester after hauling it on a bevy of summer trips.
This lightweight, rugged pack handles dense loads better than any daypack.
For extended hiking adventures and backpacking trips, a good internal frame backpack is a must. Choosing the pack that’s right for you can be a challenge, especially if you’re a beginner or someone on a tight budget. Here are three internal frame packs we recommend for their comfort, utility, and value. They’re all highly functional, and they’re all under 100 bucks.
Load up in comfort with this well-padded, heavy-duty pack from Mountainsmith.
Keep all your gear organized with this multi-pocket design from REI. Deputy editor Anthony Cerretani shows off the attributes of this load-hauler.
Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter reviews the ski-specific, multi-day Ymir 55 pack from Sierra Designs
Ski tester Crystal Sagan shows the Arc'teryx Quintic 28 backpack
Two ultralight, ultracomfortable backpacks - one with a top lid and one without.
Maximize your pack's comfort with a few easy, on-trail strap adjustments.
A lightweight pack with best-in-class suspension for heavy loads.
Carry the biggest loads with shocking comfort with this backpack that loads like a suitcase.
Climbing guru Peter Whittaker gives Backpacker a preview of a new line of gear from Eddie Bauer.
Want a one-pack quiver? Our editors loved this versatile, lightweight pack on everything from fast-and-light weekends to overloaded weeks. Find out why in this exclusive video, shot on location in Wales.
From suspension to pockets, gear editor Kristin Hostetter details what to consider when shopping for a new pack.
Dennis Lewon shows you why the Mountainsmith Phoenix won this year's Green Award at the Outdoor Retailer Show in Salt Lake City. See why this pack from Mountainsmith went home with our Editors' Choice Award.
Editor in Chief Jon Dorn showcases this award winner at the 2008 Outdoor Retailer Show.
Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter drops some knowledge on how to find, fit, and buy your perfect backpack.