The Ultimate Outdoor Backpack Buying Guide for the First Half of 2024（Part II）
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for the perfect hiking backpack, you’re in luck! BACKPACKER, a renowned outdoor magazine under the OUTSIDE brand, has compiled a comprehensive buying guide based on five months of rigorous testing across various terrains. This guide highlights ten exceptional backpacks tailored for different needs, ensuring you find the right fit for your adventures. Let’s dive into the highlights and details of these top picks.
Top Picks Summary
- Best Beginner Backpack: 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 Big and Tall: Osprey Rook/Renn 65 EF – $190
Best Beginner Backpack: Rab Muon 50 – $260
Weight: 2.3 lbs
Sizes: Unisex (one size each for men and women)
Pros:
- Comfortable to carry
- Huge pockets for storage
- Relatively lightweight
Cons:
- Inconvenient chest strap
- No hip belt pockets
Overview:
The Rab Muon 50 shines as an ideal choice for novice backpackers. This backpack strikes a near-perfect balance between comfort, weight, functionality, and price. With an aluminum frame that effectively transfers loads of up to 35 lbs to a padded hip belt, it’s designed for ease.
Zoe Gates, one of our editors, tested it on a 35-mile hike along the Art Loeb Trail in North Carolina without experiencing any chafing or overheating. The ventilated foam back panel allows for airflow during strenuous climbs, while the spacious main compartment can fit three days’ worth of food and gear, complemented by two large side pockets.
Constructed from durable 100D ripstop nylon, the Muon can withstand the rough treatment beginners often impose. At just $260, it’s an attractive option for those looking to explore the world of backpacking without breaking the bank.
2. Best Organization: Lowe Alpine Yacuri 55 – $320
Weight: 4.2 lbs
Sizes: Unisex (one size each for men and women)
Pros:
- Ample pocket space
- Easy access to gear
- Includes a rain cover
Cons:
- Limited load capacity for its weight
Overview:
Transition phases during backpacking—packing, unpacking, and searching for gear—can be frustrating. The Lowe Alpine Yacuri 55 is designed to simplify these processes with its efficient organizational system.
The Yacuri features hip belt pockets and a spacious top lid with multiple compartments, making it easy to keep snacks and essentials accessible. The bottom zipper and U-shaped back zipper facilitate quick access to camping gear, ensuring you won’t waste time rummaging around.
Jim Pierce, a tester, praised its comfort, noting that its adjustable back panel and sturdy aluminum frame allow it to handle loads of up to 30 lbs. While some users found the hip belt to be slightly uncomfortable, the overall design is praised for its durability in challenging environments.
3. Best for Technical Terrain: Mountain Hardwear Direttissima 55L – $420
Weight: 4.7 lbs (S/M size)
Sizes: Unisex (S/M and M/L)
Pros:
- Comfortable load distribution
- Well-organized compartments
- Durable materials
Cons:
- Poor breathability
Overview:
For those tackling high-altitude climbs, the Mountain Hardwear Direttissima 55L is an excellent companion. Katie Griffith, a mountaineering guide, remarked on its comfort even after carrying a 40 lb load up 3,000 feet.
Its V-shaped aluminum frame transfers weight efficiently to a soft padded hip belt, allowing for a natural movement during climbs. However, breathability can be an issue, especially during sweat-inducing ascents.
The Direttissima’s durability is noteworthy, made from advanced materials that withstand harsh weather conditions. With an 8-liter top lid, gear loops, and an array of external straps for attaching equipment, this backpack is designed for serious adventurers.
4. Most Eco-Friendly: Fjällräven Kajka 65 – $375
Weight: 6.4 lbs
Sizes: Unisex (S/M and M/L)
Pros:
- Exceptional durability
- Great load capacity
- Comes with a rain cover
Cons:
- Heavier compared to others
Overview:
If sustainability is a priority for you, the Fjällräven Kajka 65 offers a robust solution without compromising on performance. Its updated design reduces weight while maintaining durability.
The combination of synthetic polyethylene and robust 500D nylon ensures the Kajka lasts longer than many competitors, keeping it out of landfills. Its waterproof properties mean you can trek through wet environments without worry.
Evan Green, a photographer, found it stable even when carrying 50 lbs of gear during a 35-mile trip. The U-shaped zipper allows for quick access to essentials, while the detachable top lid can serve as a small daypack.
5. Best for Big and Tall: Osprey Rook/Renn 65 EF – $190
Weight: 3.8 lbs (Renn)
Sizes: Unisex (one size each for men and women)
Pros:
- Adjustable back panel
- Includes a rain cover
- Excellent load capacity
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Poor breathability
Overview:
The Osprey Rook/Renn 65 EF is specifically designed for larger frames. With a hip belt that accommodates sizes up to 70 inches, it’s tailored for comfort without sacrificing performance.
Diandra Oliver, a tester, appreciated its spacious interior and organizational features, which made packing easy. Despite its size, the backpack’s weight distribution allows for comfortable carrying, even with a full load.
However, breathability can be an issue, particularly during humid hikes. Yet, its durable construction ensures it can withstand rigorous use through various terrains.
Four Tips Help You to Choose the Right Backpack
Capacity
First, determine what capacity you need. For trips lasting one to three nights, aim for a capacity of 40 to 55 liters. For more gear-intensive trips or those nearing a week, consider 60 to 70 liters. Always test your gear to ensure it fits in the backpack before purchasing.
Fit
Never sacrifice comfort for a discount. Have a store employee measure your torso length (the distance from your neck to your hip bone) to find the right size. Most people fall between 16 to 21 inches. Adjust the straps and move around to ensure a snug yet comfortable fit.
Load-Bearing
Consider how much weight the backpack can comfortably carry. Lightweight models may look appealing, but many only support around 25 lbs. Heavier backpacks typically accommodate 50 to 60 lbs but will weigh more when empty.
Features
Think about your backpacking style. If you prefer to snack on the trail, look for hip and chest pockets. If you carry a hydration reservoir, ensure your backpack has a compatible sleeve and hose exit. Your preferences may evolve, but ensure the backpack meets your basic needs.
Conclusion
Selecting the right backpack can significantly enhance your outdoor experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, the options above cater to a variety of needs and preferences. From the budget-friendly Osprey Rook/Renn 65 EF to the eco-conscious Fjällräven Kajka 65, there’s a perfect backpack waiting for you. Happy hiking!