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We purchased and tested the best backpacks from Osprey, Gregory, REI, Deuter, Granite Gear and more to help you pick out the perfect one for your next trip
We tested the best backpacking packs side by side and ranked them based on overall performance so you can easily pick the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Credit: Sam Schild
By Sam Schild ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated May 13, 2026
The right backpacking backpack will conform to your body like a gentle hug, offer all of the space and features you need to organize your gear, and provide enough support to carry it as far as you want. Two of the best ways to improve your experience are to carry less weight and to distribute it more comfortably, and a great pack will strike that balance.
Our overall favorite backpacking pack is the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65. It's the most comfortable pack we've worn, by far. It's supportive enough to carry a week's worth of gear and food, and versatile enough for weekend overnight trips.
The REI Co-op Flash 55 is the best bang for your buck. It's nearly as comfortable and well-organized as the top-scoring packs, but much more affordable. It's also worth comparing the Flash 55 directly against the REI Co-op Trailmade 60 – at less than $200, this inclusively sized pack is perfect for anyone just starting out.
We purchased 13 of the best backpacking backpacks and tested them side by side. We've taken hundreds of trips and hiked thousands of miles, from high mountain passes in the Sierra Nevada to sweaty slogs through the Appalachian woods. We draw on our team's cumulative experience to offer you expert advice on picking the perfect backpack for your needs and budget.
Editor's Note: We updated our review of backpacking backpacks on May 14, 2026, to add two new packs from REI and Hyperlite Mountain Gear. We also added more information to many of the individual reviews in our lineup.
The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 is our favorite overall backpack for backpacking. It's extremely comfortable, thanks to a suspended mesh back panel that rests against your back. This creates an air channel between you and the pack, allowing for ample ventilation. But that's not where the back panel design ends. The trampoline mesh that's on the back panel also wraps around onto the hip belt. This feature is what truly makes the pack unique. “It feels like the pack is giving me a hug,” one of our testers said. “I often dread putting on a heavy backpacking pack, but this one feels like the loving embrace of a close friend,” another tester continued. Indeed, we've carried a lot of weight with this friendly backpack for hundreds of miles, and have nothing but good things to say about it.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
4.2 lb
Weight per Liter
1.03 oz/L
Advertised Volume
65 L
Measured Volume (main compartment)
52 L
Organization Compartments
Lid, front mesh pocket, side water bottle pockets, hip belt pockets
While we love most aspects of the Atmos AG LT 65, it may not be ideal for everyone. The Atmos AG LT isn't nearly as streamlined as the ultra-simple Granite Gear Blaze 60. We believe the Atmos AG LT strikes the perfect balance between the Blaze's ultralight simplicity and the feature-rich, high-capacity, highly adjustable Osprey Aether 65. Between the three, “the Atmos AG LT is the ideal mixture of simplistic design and ultimate comfort,” our lead tester stated. “I've worn lighter packs, and I've worn more feature-rich packs, and the Atmos is just different, in the best way possible.” If you're looking for the most comfortable backpacking pack for your next backcountry adventure, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better option than the Atmos AG LT 65.
The REI Flash 55 is an inexpensive, well-designed backpack. Lightweight packs are often less supportive and pricier than their competitors, but not the Flash 55. “I particularly love the Packmod system,” one tester said, “which enables you to customize the pack by moving or eliminating virtually all external pockets and straps.” It has two “extra” side pockets between the water bottle and the front stretch pockets. These extra pockets are super handy and essentially double the external storage capacity. The side bottle pockets are also the most easily accessible in the group. They sit low on the pack, making it easy to grab and replace your bottles with one hand. Since water bottles are placed vertically in these pockets, your swinging arms won't hit them as you walk, either.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
2.8 lb
Weight per Liter
0.81 oz/L
Advertised Volume
55 L
Measured Volume (main compartment)
45 L
Organization Compartments
Lid, front mesh pockets, 2 side pockets per side, hip belt pockets, shoulder strap pocket
We love how affordable the Flash 55 is, but we have some concerns about the fabric's durability. The relatively thin material isn't as abrasion-resistant as some of the heavier-duty packs we tested. That said, we've seen this model last for 2650-mile thru-hikes. “Just don't drag it against rocks, and it will last a long time,” as one tester puts it simply. As a lightweight pack, the Flash 55 isn't the best choice for longer trips – if you plan to carry more than 30 pounds, you should select a larger pack with a more robust suspension system. While the more affordable REI Co-op Trailmade 60 can carry a bit more weight than the Flash 55, if you're planning on trips longer than a weekend, it's worth investing in a pack like the Granite Gear Blaze 60 that can comfortably carry up to 50 pounds.
We independently measured the volume of the Flash 55. While the 45-liter main compartment can carry a remarkable amount, there's a weight limit for this pack. Credit: Sam Schild
The REI Co-op Trailmade 60 is an excellent choice for a budget backpacking pack, and it's one of the most size-inclusive packs we've seen. It comes in two widths – accommodating up to a 52-inch waist – and like most other packs, you can also adjust the torso length. The shoulder straps are comfortable, and the hip belt is well-padded. The Trailmade 60 has everything you'd need for a successful backpacking trip. There are tons of pockets to make it easy to access your gear during the day, including large side water bottle pockets, and a top lid with zipper pockets. It also has a massive U-shaped zipper that runs from the sleeping bag compartment almost to the top of the pack, which allows you to open the entire front of the pack. The thick recycled nylon materials are well-equipped to withstand daily wear and tear on the trail.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
3.3 lb
Weight per Liter
0.88 oz/L
Advertised Volume
60 L
Measured Volume (main compartment)
(not measured)
Organization Compartments
Lid with exterior pocket, cinch cord front panel, water bottle pockets, hip belt pockets, sleeping bag compartment
The drawback to this pack is its lid design. “I love the large pocket on the lid, but the lid itself is sewn onto the pack, so you can't remove it or adjust it to fit over a larger load,” our lead tester noted. We don't think this is a dealbreaker, but if adjustable buckles were attached to the pack lid, it would be easier to keep it balanced when the main compartment is stuffed to the brim. The Osprey Rook 65L is slightly more expensive than the Trailmade 60, but it features an adjustable lid and a suspended mesh back panel, which keeps your back from getting as sweaty. It's also worth comparing the Trailmade 60 against the REI Flash 55, which is a bit smaller and less adjustable than the Trailmade 60, but it has features that may appeal to backpackers with some experience. The Trailmade 60, on the other hand, is our top recommendation for anyone just starting out – it's comfortable, durable, well-organized, and most importantly, affordable.
The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is perfect for anyone who wants a lightweight pack, but doesn't want to fully make the leap into ultralight backpacking. It keeps things simple, and by using some of the lightest and most durable fabrics available, it's lightweight and strong. The Blaze 60 may look a lot like an ultralight pack, but the simple frame transfers the pack's weight to your hips better than many ultralight options. “This is the pack I recommend to any friends who are ultralight-curious,” our lead tester said. The Blaze 60 keeps your base weight low, while the robust suspension lets you comfortably carry a few luxury items – it comfortably carries up to 50 pounds of gear. It has a few hidden features that also make it more functional than an ultralight pack. Most notably, it has a hidden zipper pocket that lets you access the pack's contents from the front without unrolling the roll-top closure, making it easier to grab a spare layer when the temperature drops.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
3.0 lb
Weight per Liter
0.80 oz/L
Advertised Volume
60 L
Measured Volume (main compartment)
58 L
Organization Compartments
Lid, front mesh pocket, side water bottle pockets, hip belt pockets
"The Blaze 60 allows you to go lighter without making quite as many sacrifices as you'd need to go full-on ultralight," our lead tester stated. The Blaze can comfortably carry more weight than the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 and has additional pockets for better organization, including a removable top lid with a zipper pocket. “I love the Blaze's well-thought-out design,” our lead tester continued. “They put everything where I want it to be without adding extras I don't need.” You can also remove the brain and the waist belt and combine them into a fanny pack for day hikes away from camp. “That's pretty smart,” they said. If gear accessibility and adjustability are important to you, it's worth looking at the Gregory Paragon 60 as a similar alternative. The Paragon 60 features a trampoline-style mesh back panel and a free-floating, highly adjustable hip belt. While the Blaze 60 may not have any revolutionary features like this, the simple design is part of its appeal.
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 is the ultralight pack we choose for long-distance backpacking. This 1.9-pound pack is a widely popular pack among thru-hikers. “This pack is extremely simple, which makes it superlight, but it's also surprisingly comfortable if you keep the load at 30 pounds or less,” our lead tester said. It's made of Dyneema composite fabric, which is puncture-resistant and waterproof. It has simple yet highly functional external pockets for storing extra gear, and you can easily reach into those side pockets to grab your water bottle without taking the pack off.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
1.9 lb
Weight per Liter
0.55 oz/L
Advertised Volume
55 L
Measured Volume (main compartment)
(not measured)
Organization Compartments
Hip belt pockets, 3 section front pocket
We love this specialty pack, but we can't deny that it's expensive. There are other packs, like the REI Co-op Flash 55 and the Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10, that cost nearly half as much as the Southwest 55 but perform as well overall. And our lead tester admits, "Unless you already have an ultralight tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad, you should probably be looking at other packs. The Osprey Exos 58 is a lightweight alternative that's a bit more beginner-friendly and more comfortable than the Southwest 55, thanks to a mesh back panel that offers more support and airflow across your back. “Still, I can't deny the number of Hyperlite packs that complete 2,000+ mile thru-hikes every year,” our lead tester continues. “As long as you have the rest of your backpacking kit dialed, the weight savings with this pack are real.”
Osprey has always done a good job of marrying durability, adjustability, and comfort – the Osprey Aether 65 is the perfect example, and a pack that's particularly well-suited to carrying a lot of gear. This pack is easily adjustable, allowing you to dial in your perfect fit, even while out on the trail. You can easily access your gear through either the sleeping bag compartment, a reinforced stretch “shove-it” front pocket, a large zipper for accessing the pack's interior, and a double-pocketed lid that keeps all the necessities just a zip away. “The back panel and shoulder straps are firm and supportive,” our lead tester said. As another one of our testers candidly put it, “I never want to be carrying 50 pounds on my back. (And I'm certain if my knees could talk, they would agree.) But for some trips, that's what you have to do, and for those times, I'm glad the Aether 65 exists.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
5.0 lb
Weight per Liter
1.23 oz/L
Advertised Volume
65 L
Measured Volume (main compartment)
45 L
Organization Compartments
Lid, front pocket, side water bottle pockets, hip belt pockets, sleeping bag compartment
The main disadvantage of the Aether 65 is that the pack alone weighs 5 pounds. Though it can comfortably handle gear-heavy trips that we wouldn't dream of with many lighter packs, it's undeniably heavy. For the amount of weight you'd carry for a weekend trip, the relative weight savings of a 3-pound pack like the Granite Gear Blaze 60 is meaningful. Another reasonable alternative is the Gregory Focal 58, which is substantially lighter than the Aether and Blaze, yet still holds up well under heavy loads. If you like the Osprey suspension system, the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 weighs a pound less than the Aether and is more comfortable. Although the Aether is more comfortable carrying loads near 50 pounds, the Atmos is the most comfortable pack we tested for carrying a more reasonable 30-40 pounds.
If you want a specific pocket or space for every piece of gear, the Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10 was designed for you. It's designed to keep your gear well organized and easy to access, including three separate access points to the main compartment. An interesting suite of features allows you to customize its setup. The sleeping bag compartment has a separate opening that can be opened and used in the main compartment via an internal zipper. It also has two side compression straps per side, both of which are removable or reconfigurable. “I love how easy it is to stay organized on long backpacking trips with this pack,” our lead tester stated. The Aircontact Core also has pockets galore. The brain has two zippered pockets, and the hip belt has two more. On top of all this, the generously cushioned shoulder straps, lumbar pad, and hip belt ensure that your well-organized load rides comfortably on your back.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
5.2 lb
Weight per Liter
1.11 oz/L
Advertised Volume
65 L + 10 L
Measured Volume (main compartment)
52 L
Organization Compartments
Lid with two zippered pockets, front mesh pocket, side water bottle pockets, hip belt pockets, sleeping bag compartment
Unfortunately, the Aircontact Core is only available in one size. Therefore, if your torso length is not within the 18 to 21-inch range, this pack won't fit you. If you're not within the Deuter's 4-inch torso range, we like the REI Co-op Flash 55, which comes in four sizes and can be easily adjusted for the perfect fit. The Aircontact Core also has a forward-angled water bottle pocket on the right, but none on the left, so you'll only have access to one water bottle at a time (at least, without taking your pack off). Still, these are minor issues for an overall great backpack.
Deuter's newest version of this pack is the Aircontact Core 60+10, which is 5 liters smaller and features a U-shaped zipper that creates a duffel-style opening for accessing your gear. Our links point to this new 60+10 version.
Thanks to a zipper on the front of the Deuter Aircontact Core, it's easy to retrieve a jacket buried in the middle of your pack. Credit: Sam Schild
Product Comparison Table
Backpacking is a great way to share the wonders of the great outdoors. Credit: Chris McNamara
How We Tested
For this review, we identified the key metrics essential to grading a backpack. Then we designed a thorough set of tests we could run in the lab and, more importantly, in the field. Then we, and our friends, hiked all over the country on backpacking trips. We considered what made them comfortable and convenient for trips of different lengths. We independently measured the volume and carrying capacity, and closely examined the utility of each feature. From the Appalachians to the Rocky Mountains to the Sierra Nevadas, we wore these backpacking backpacks on long and short trail days, testing and assessing their strengths and weaknesses along the way.
We tested the packs in this review with a focus on the following metrics:
Comfort(40% of overall weighting)
Ease of Use(25% of overall weighting)
Weight-to-Volume Ratio(20% of overall weighting)
Adjustability(15% of overall weighting)
Loading up the REI Co-op Traverse 60 for a backpacking trip. Credit: Sam Schild
Why Trust GearLab
Our test team is led by Sam Schild, a backpacker, trail runner, and mountain biker based in Colorado. He has backpacked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, Arizona Trail, and Colorado Trail (three times), along with countless shorter backpacking trips.
We tested packs across mountain ranges, forests, deserts, grasslands, and coastal landscapes.
Analysis and Test Results
We purchased every pack we tested at retail, just like you. To prepare for testing, we considered what makes a great backpacking backpack.
We then tested the entire lineup of packs side by side, assessing them for comfort, ease of use, weight, and adjustability. Below, we break down our findings by metric and dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes each pack worthy of your consideration.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
These backpacks, like other outdoor gear, can be quite expensive. However, if you've ever hiked all day with an ill-fitting pack, you understand that pain quickly replaces any joy of saving money. Top dollar doesn't always equal top comfort, though.
REI Co-op Trailmade 60: For less than $200, this pack is a great option for anyone just starting out. It has plenty of external pockets and multiple zippers for accessing the main compartment, which makes it easy to pack and unpack. It comes in the widest range of sizes (including sizes that accommodate up to a 52-inch waist), and is easily adjustable, so you can dial in the perfect fit.
REI Co-op Flash 55: This reasonably priced pack performs nearly as well as other packs that cost upwards of $100 more. It's lightweight and full of features that can be added, moved, or removed as needed. The only downside is that it's not very comfortable for carrying more than 30 pounds, which makes it better for weekend rather than week-long trips.
Granite Gear Blaze 60: While some packs may cost more, few perform as well across the board as this one. (We often see this pack on sale, making it an even better value!) If you plan to go on trips longer than a weekend – or even if you want to carry some extra comforts – the Blaze 60 carries loads beyond 30 pounds much more comfortably than the Flash 55.
The Osprey Exos 58 is another good value for a backpack, with a comfortable, lightweight design. Credit: Sam Schild
Comfort
Each person's body is unique, so our tests included a diverse range of users to gather a wide variety of data. When a pack seems to fit a specific body type best, we mention that in the review, though we find the most comfortable packs fit the widest variety of body types.
The comfort of the waist belt, shoulder straps, and back panel is crucial when choosing a backpack – most issues that bother new backpackers involve the shoulders, hips, and back. Padded hip belts and shoulder straps are worth very little without a good suspension system or frame to complement them. A pack's suspension system or frame distributes the pack's load evenly across your shoulders, hips, and back.
The Gregory Paragon 60 remains comfortable over long days on the trail. Credit: Sam Schild
The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 is wildly comfortable, with a snug ride thanks to its trampoline-style suspension. It also has the most supportive hip belt of any pack we tested.
The Osprey Airscape back panel, found on the Atmos AG LT, Aether, Exos, and Rook, is one of the most comfortable back panel designs we tested because it lets your back breathe. Credit: Sam Schild
Trampoline Suspension Systems
Trampoline-style or suspension systems feature a tensioned mesh back panel (like a trampoline) instead of a traditional back panel that rests the entire pack directly on your back. Trampoline back panels allow airflow between your back and the pack's load, reducing back sweat. More importantly, weight is distributed more evenly, producing fewer hot spots.
We like trampoline-style suspension systems for their breathability and weight distribution. However, not many trampoline-style harnesses can handle large loads of 45 pounds or more. Trampoline suspensions also position the load further away from your back, increasing leverage and reducing balance, which makes for a less comfortable overall carrying experience as the weight increases.
The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65, Gregory Focal 58, Gregory Paragon 60, Osprey Exos 58, and Osprey Rook all have trampoline-style suspension.
The trampoline mesh back panel on the Osprey Exos 58 is just as airy, but not quite as comfortable as the one on the Atmos AG LT 65. Credit: Sam Schild
We never get hot spots on our backs or hips wearing the Atmos AG LT 65, even after long, hot days on the trail. One reason is the heavily tapered padding in the straps and waist belt, which provides the thickest cushioning at the tops of your shoulders, where you want it most. At the same time, thinner padding in less important areas reduces chafing. At loads above 40 pounds, however, the Atmos becomes less comfortable.
The Atmos AG LT was comfortable enough to wear even during a quick stop at an alpine lake for some fishing. Credit: Chris McNamara
The most comfortable packs for carrying heavier loads are the Osprey Aether 65, the Gregory Baltoro 65, and the Granite Gear Blaze 60. Instead of a suspension system, these packs utilize high-quality foam that provides a perfect balance of support and comfort. All of the shoulder straps offer top-notch ergonomics and slightly stiffer padding. While this rigid padding is marginally less comfy, it won't compress when you're lugging a heavy load. Each of these models offers subtle advantages that help transfer the load to your hips, which is crucial when your pack weighs more than 30 pounds.
The Granite Gear Blaze 60 has a stable back panel even without a trampoline back, and is among the most comfortable packs we tested. Credit: Sam Schild
The hip belt is one of the primary contributors to a comfortable pack, especially when it is well-loaded. Some are light and relatively soft, while others swivel and are well-padded yet rigid to carry heavy loads. On some packs, such as the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65, Granite Gear Blaze 60, and Gregory Paragon 60, you can extend the foam padding of the waistbelt to accommodate larger waist sizes.
The Gregory Paragon 60's hip belt comfortably moves with you as you walk, and the foam extends out to match your waist size. Credit: Sam Schild
Ease of Use
We pay particular attention to the design of the main compartment, pockets, lid, straps, and other unique attributes. We looked at each feature and asked ourselves: "Does this make my life easier and keep me more organized?"
Anyone who likes a well-organized pack should home in on the Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10, Osprey Atmos AG LT 65, and Granite Gear Blaze 60. These packs are well laid out so you can access your gear quickly and easily. They have large hip-belt pockets, large side pockets for water bottles, and a stretchy mesh “stuff-it” pocket on the outside, which is ideal for wet clothes or camp shoes (or oversized extras, like a frisbee).
The Blaze 60's hidden front zipper provides access to the main pack compartment without opening the top lid. Credit: Sam Schild
We also considered the usefulness of other features that are all now fairly standard. We also awarded extra points for features that can be removed or customized for a more personalized experience.
Even though we load it from the top, the Gregory Paragon 60 has many convenient ways to access your gear. Credit: Sam Schild
Main Compartment Access
As pack volume increases, easy access becomes more important because you want to reach key items without unpacking your entire backpack. All the backpacks in our review are top-loading, but some packs also allow access to the main compartment through the front or sides.
The REI Trailmade 60 has a massive U-shaped zipper, which is great for grabbing anything from inside the pack after you've stuffed it full. Credit: Sam Schild
In our Product Comparison Table, we specifically note the accessibility for each pack we tested.
While packs like the REI Trailmade 60 have a wide, U-shaped zipper that fully opens the main compartment, other packs like the Deuter Aircontact Core have a half-zip on the front.
Thanks to the front half-zipper, it's easy to retrieve a jacket buried in the middle of the Deuter Aircontact Core. Credit: Sam Schild
Others, like the Gregory Paragon 60, feature side access zippers. While these are useful, they're often less convenient than a front zipper because side access panels can be difficult to close when your pack is fully loaded.
The Gregory Paragon 60 features a side access zipper, allowing you to grab items from the main compartment without opening the top lid. Credit: Sam Schild
Many packs, including favorites like the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65, Deuter Aircontact Core, and REI Trailmade 60, have a separate sleeping-bag compartment. The bottom-access zipper on this compartment lets you open the part of the pack that would otherwise force you to unload everything onto the ground. While it's useful for keeping your sleeping bag separate – especially if your other gear is wet – you can choose to use it to store other bulky items, like a bear canister.
The Paragon 60 also has a zippered pocket to store and access your sleeping bag separately. Credit: Sam Schild
Top Lid Pocket (aka "The Brain")
Every pack except the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 has a top lid with a zippered pocket. This is one of the best places to store small items that require quick, easy access, such as sunglasses, sunscreen, or bug spray. Many packs also feature a small pocket on the underside of the lid, a perfect spot to store small items you don't want to lose, like car keys.
The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 has a massive top lid pocket for easy access to a surprising amount of gear. Credit: Sam Schild
The Gregory Baltoro 65 has a very wide-opening zipper on its lid, which can easily fit an entire day's worth of snacks, a jacket, and a headlamp. The sizable zippered lid pockets on the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 are next level, though. “This brain can fit everything but the kitchen sink!” one of our testers exclaimed.
The top lid on the REI Traverse 60 has two zippered pockets and doubles as a day pack. Credit: Sam Schild
Hip Belt Pockets
Useful pockets on a hip belt are a must for many of us. The pockets on the hip belt of the Gregory Baltoro 65 are large enough to fit a paperback book, while most are big enough to fit your phone or a few snacks.
The pockets on the Gregory Baltoro 65 may be large enough to fit a paperback, but we prefer to load them up with snacks. Credit: Sam Schild
We also love the hip belt pockets on the Granite Gear Blaze 60, Hyperlite Southwest 55, and Osprey Atmos AG LT for their size and ease of access. The pockets on the Deuter Aircontact Core are made of stretchy mesh, allowing them to fit even more than their appearance suggests.
The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 lets you act as the “snack drawer” when your 6-year-old needs all the motivation to keep hiking. Credit: Chris McNamara
The Osprey Exos 58, on the other hand, has some of the smallest hip belt pockets of any pack we tested. Each pocket is enough for a few snacks, but they're barely large enough to fit a smartphone.
The Osprey Exos 58 has some of the smallest hip-belt pockets of any pack we tested (but at least the newest version has them!). Credit: Sam Schild
Hydration
All of the packs in this review have a compartment for storing a hydration bladder. You can expect the packs with this feature to work with just about any brand's 2 to 3-liter hydration bladder. Many others have angled side pockets that make it easy to pull out – and more importantly, put back – a water bottle without taking your pack off.
The stretchy mesh side pockets on the Atmos AG LT 65 are angled so that you can easily pull out a water bottle without taking your pack off. Credit: Sam Schild
Rain Covers
Rain covers are a practical addition to any backpacking pack. Unless you've lined your pack with a trash bag or packed your gear in dry bags, your stuff will get wet in a rainstorm. Some backpacks we tested include a rain cover, such as the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65, REI Traverse 60, and Osprey Aether 65.
The Atmos AG LT 65 also has an integrated rain cover to keep your pack and gear dry. Credit: Sam Schild
It's also worth noting here that the Hyperlite Southwest is the only pack made of waterproof material. So it essentially does come with a rain cover, it's just always already installed. It's very convenient to have a waterproof pack, but we still think you should store your gear inside a waterproof stuff sack or use a pack liner, just in case.
Some impromptu field testing of the Dyneema fabric that makes Hyperlite packs so water-resistant. After a thorough soaking, our gear in the main compartment was still relatively dry. Credit: Justin Simoni
Weight-to-Volume Ratio
This may seem obvious, but a heavier pack will feel, well, heavier. Every pound you add to the base weight of your pack is one pound less of food or water you could carry – supplies you could use to stay out for longer. We started by measuring each pack on our home scale to verify the manufacturer's claimed weight.
The lightest pack in our review, by a significant margin, is the Hyperlite Southwest 55. This pack weighs under 2 pounds and is made of Dyneema composite fabric, which is extremely strong despite the pack's thin body material.
The Hyperlite Southwest 55 is the lightest pack we tested, weighing 1 pound 14.1 ounces on our scale (though the glitchy screen makes this hard to read here). Credit: Sam Schild
While the Southwest 55 is objectively ultralight, it doesn't comfortably carry much weight – it's really only a viable option for folks who already own an ultralight tent, sleeping bag or quilt, and sleeping pad.
Interested in Ultralight Hiking?
This review focuses on non-ultralight packs that prioritize comfort and functionality over weight savings. These packs are designed to carry an average load of 30 to 50 pounds, which is pretty reasonable given the gear your average backpacker carries.
If you're interested in going ultralight, we have an entire sub-section of reviews dedicated to the best ultralight gear.
We also measured the internal volume of the main pocket and compared it to the manufacturer's claims. Even though most pack manufacturers are pretty honest, there is some discrepancy in how total volume is calculated: some companies count the volume of every pocket in their advertised volume, while others count only the main compartment.
We measured volume using ping pong balls and a calibrated measuring container.
The largest discrepancies between advertised volume and main compartment volume were with the REI Co-op Traverse 60, Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10, and Osprey Aether 65. Each of the main compartments in these packs is at least 15 liters smaller than its advertised volume.
The REI Traverse 60's main compartment measures 45 liters, even though the pack is advertised as 60 liters. Credit: Sam Schild
Then, we calculated the weight-to-volume ratio of each pack. Again, this might be obvious, but a smaller pack will weigh less because it's smaller. By calculating the weight-to-volume ratio, we can equalize and directly compare pack weight. It also allows us to more closely examine the carrying capacity of these packs, relative to their base weight. If you can comfortably carry more weight with a lighter pack, wouldn't you?
If all your gear isn't ultralight and you want to upgrade your pack first, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 is probably a better option for you, as it carries heavy loads better than the Southwest 55. The Blaze weighs 3 pounds and can comfortably carry 45-50 pounds, whereas the Southwest 55 feels maxed out at 35 pounds.
The Blaze 60 has 55 liters of internal storage, plus tons more storage in the exterior mesh pocket, hip belt and water bottle pockets, and lid. Credit: Sam Schild
The REI Flash 55, Gregory Focal 58, and Osprey Exos 58 each weigh less than three pounds. Though each is lighter than the Granite Gear Blaze 60, they don't carry weight as comfortably.
The REI Flash 55 has a low weight-to-volume ratio, and is one of the lightest packs this guide. Credit: Sam Schild
It's worth reiterating that ultralight packs often sacrifice comfort and organizational features. Any of these three packs is an excellent option for folks who want to go light but still want a comfortable, supportive pack with a frame and robust padding.
The Osprey Exos 58 is a great way to test drive ultralight backpacking without fully committing to a minimalist pack. Credit: Sam Schild
Although we're focusing on a pack's base weight, there are plenty of benefits to carrying a slightly heavier pack. Packs like the Osprey Aether 65 and Atmos AG LT 65 have a more robust frame, making a heavier load feel more comfortable. When you're loaded down with seven days' worth of food at the start of a weeklong backpacking trip, that pack is going to feel heavy. While you may end up carrying a few extra pounds at the end of the trip, the extra comfort up front may be well worth it.
When you're in it for the long haul, the extra pound on the Atmos AG LT 65 is well worth the extra comfort it affords. Credit: Sam Schild
Adjustability
Fit may be personal, but an adjustable backpack will fit more people. While many packs are offered in a range of sizes, few manufacturers let you swap out waist belts and shoulder straps to tailor your fit. But depending on your build, you may want a large frame and a medium waist belt. If this would be helpful for your body type, it is worth seeking out a pack from a manufacturer like Gregory, Osprey, or REI.
While many packs are only available in a fixed size based on your torso length, most of the packs we tested have a way to adjust that length by moving the shoulder straps up and down. Notable exceptions are the Southwest 55 and the Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10. The shoulder straps on the Southwest are fixed. While the Aircontact is adjustable, it's only available in one size – if you don't fit into that pack's 4-inch range, you'll have to look elsewhere.
The REI Traverse 60 comes in different sizes for both torso length and hip belt, and you can easily adjust the torso length by 4 inches per size. Credit: Sam Schild
The REI Trailmade 60 also lets you adjust the torso length, but it is unique in that it is also offered in two different widths – the widest option accommodates waist sizes up to 52 inches. REI also lets you mix and match torso and hip belts to some extent – the smaller torso length is available with two hip belt sizes, as is the longer torso option. The REI Flash 55 is also available in a unique extra size: a large torso with a small waistbelt, which is useful for folks who are tall and skinny.
The REI Trailmade 60 is one of the few packs that come in multiple widths to fit bodies of different sizes. Credit: Sam Schild
The adjustment options of the Osprey Aether 65 are also quite notable. While it may only have four inches of vertical adjustment, it also features adjustable padding on the shoulder straps and waist-belt to help dial in your perfect fit.
The ability to adjust the shoulder padding on the Aether 65 is unique and an important reason this pack is so comfortable when carrying heavy loads. Credit: Sam Schild
The Gregory Paragon 60 also features a very adjustable hip belt. Most packs allow you to adjust the hip belt size by simply changing the length of a webbing strap. With the Paragon, however, the hip belt cushioning can also be extended, allowing people with wider hips to still have cushioning where they need it.
The Gregory Paragon 60 allows you to adjust the shoulder harness height to dial in the perfect torso length. Credit: Sam Schild
With the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65, you can also extend or retract the hip belt padding to get a super-dialed fit. This adjustment feature ensures that the already extremely comfortable hip belt design is as comfortable as possible for a wide range of body shapes.
No matter how big your hips are, the adjustable padding on the waist belt of the Atmos AG LT 65 ensures a snug fit. Credit: Chris McNamara
Other Notable Backpacking Backpacks to Consider
Osprey Atmos 65 AG - This is the slightly heavier, more feature-filled version of our overall favorite pack, the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65. The Atmos AG is nearly identical to the Atmos AG LT – it feels slightly burlier, though it's a touch heavier, and the main compartment is 2 liters smaller. While it's still quite popular, of the two, it's more expensive and offers no additional benefits.
The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a comfortable pack with great features, but we prefer the slimmer Atmos AG LT 65. Credit: Sam Schild
Ultralight Adventure Equipment Catalyst - This pack is a long-time thru-hiker favorite that we love as well. It's comfortable, durable, and very lightweight. However, it has a volume capacity of 75 liters and a carrying capacity of 40 pounds, which is a bit lopsided. We think ULA packs are great, especially the popular Ultra Circuit, but this one is simply too big for ultralight backpacking.
We love the ULA Catalyst for long-distance hikes, but there are other, smaller ULA packs that can comfortably carry the same weight. Credit: Elizabeth Paashaus
Granite Gear Crown2 60 - This is a minimalist pack at a good price. It weighs a little over two pounds, and if you travel light, it carries weight well enough. That said, this is not the pack to load up as it quickly becomes apparent how those weight-saving cuts into the pack's comfort.
The Granite Gear Crown2 60 is the lighter-weight cousin of the Granite Gear Blaze 60, but it lacks the Blaze's adjustability. Credit: Ben Applebaum-Bauch
High Sierra Pathway 2.0 60L - This is a contender for the best pack under $100. It is not the most comfortable or the lightest, but it's totally adequate for shorter backpacking trips. We have seen it on sale for less than $70, which makes it pretty compelling if you only backpack a few times a year.
The High Sierra Pathway 2.0 is very inexpensive and more comfortable than some cheap packs, but will hold you back if you're interested in serious backpacking. Credit: Sam Schild
Loowoko 50L Waterproof - This is one of the cheapest packs we have ever tested. It has no frame and no frills and weighs just over two pounds. If you pack extremely light, like 20-25 lbs, you might be okay. Carrying loads any heavier, and the straps quickly dig into your shoulders.
The Loowoko 50L Waterproof doesn't have a frame, so it's a better option for an inexpensive day pack than an overnight backpacking pack. Credit: Sam Schild
ALPS Mountaineering Cascade 90 - This pack had great online reviews, but it didn't stack up when we tested it. It's a high-volume pack without enough of a frame to comfortably carry 90 liters worth of gear. It has tons of pockets, but few of them are very functional. And it has too many straps that don't add any real benefit.
The ALPS Mountaineering Cascade 90 looks like it should comfortably carry more weight than it can. Credit: Sam Schild
Teton Sports 55L Scout - Our expectations were low when testing this sub-$100 pack, and although it didn't blow us away, it performed better than other similarly priced packs. That said, if you're just getting into backpacking, it's worth spending a little bit more – you'll probably have a better time on your first trip with a more comfortable backpack.
The Teton Sports Scout isn't expensive, but backpacking isn't as fun with an uncomfortable pack. We recommend buying one of our affordable, award-winning packs instead. Credit: Sam Schild
Conclusion
A backpacking trip can be one of life's great joys, but without the right backpack, your next trip might be a pain, and that's a far cry from joyful. You can choose from various pack options, each tailored to a specific type of backpacker and hiker. We hope that our testing and analysis have helped you narrow down your choices, allowing you to select the best option for your needs and budget. Lastly, we hope your next backpacking trip is one to remember.
Need help selecting your “Big 3” pieces of backpacking gear: pack, shelter, and sleep system? You can find your pack advice here, and we have had hands-on experience with backpacking tents, backpacking sleeping bags, and the coziest sleeping pads to complete your trio. Most backpacking packs are designed in a unisex manner to be comfortable for both men and women, but we do offer a separate review of packs designed specifically for women.
Backpacking can take you to some incredible places. Here, our lead tester is enjoying a beautiful desert sunset somewhere along the 800-mile Arizona Trail. Credit: Sam Schild
