Because packs are one of the heaviest items in a backpacking kit, the ultralight crowd has developed and popularized a range of super-lightweight backpacking packs. At that price point, it could be hard to find a pack that will hold up to the wear and tear of the trail like the Rook will. Additionally, it still does offer some of the great features we have grown to love in Osprey’s other packs, such as impressive ventilation, adjustable torso sizing, and solid suspension. Compared to other models, the Rook doesn’t carry loads quite as well, but you can’t ask for too much when paying significantly less. The new Exos addresses a couple of complaints users had with the older model, adding a simple torso adjustment system, and bringing back the cherished hip belt pockets. The updated women’s The North Face Terra 55 is a comfortable, affordable pack catered toward the novice hiker breaking into longer trips, or the dedicated backpacker on a budget.
If you need to carry everything imaginable without breaking your back, this could be the perfect choice. The company has rightfully earned its reputation for comfort and durability the hard way — on the backs of thru-hikers over thousands of collective miles. For the ultralight backpacker looking for a pack that will survive the rigors of a thru-hike and ozark trail canopy beyond, it doesn’t get much better than the 2400 Southwest Pack. For an ultralight pack, the 2400 Southwest Pack from Hyperlite Mountain Gear strikes a rare balance between comfort, weight, and durability, making this our top pick for an ultralight setup. This pack is built almost entirely from Dyneema — a super strong and incredibly light material.
After extensively testing both the regular 50+5L and women’s-specific 45+5L SL versions, we can confidently say we would trust, and enjoy, taking this on a long journey across the country. Often we’ll read jargon like that in a specs list and pass it off as marketing nonsense, but this system genuinely delivers as promised in a way we haven’t seen on many other packs. If this USA-made cottage brand had a flagship pack, it would probably be the Circuit. A top choice for the PCT and other thru-hikes, the Circuit falls into that versatile size of 4,200 cubic inches (68 L). An adjustable locking clasp on the right shoulder strap secures one end of the load lifter, which runs through some webbing behind the frame, and attaches to the other strap. The load lifter can move freely around the frame, and is therefore self-equalizing.
Super stable, cushioned to the max, with a solid suspension system, this pack bears massive loads with about as much ease as you could ask for. In addition to various size options, the Southwest Pack is also available in two different Dyneema fabrics. The 50-denier version is white, while the 150-denier version is black and costs $20 more.
Typically, a hydration pocket is a sleeve-like space where a water bladder or hydration pouch will fit easily and stay out of the way of your other gear. Nearly all backpacks have a large opening at the top where users can access the main compartment. Some packs, such as the Osprey Aether & Ariel 55, have additional entry points into the main compartment, allowing users to access items within the pack without removing everything on top. Traditional backpacks use what is called a top-lid closure, which usually consists of a large opening that cinches closed, covered by a brain. Rolltop bags, on the other hand, are streamlined, no-frills backpacks that close like a dry bag on top, though usually aren’t entirely waterproof.
The Osprey Aether and Ariel 55 are recently updated versions of two of Osprey’s bestselling styles. Packed with features and thoroughly well-designed, the functionality and comfort of the Aether and Ariel make them our first choices for the best backpacking packs. After loads of research and miles upon miles of rigorous testing, we found the best packs for every use and budget. Because no single pack works for everyone, we’ve broken the list into categories to help you find the perfect fit. And if you need more help deciding, be sure to check out our comparison table, buyer’s guide, and FAQ sections at the end of this article.