At Curated, we don't believe that there's a single "best" backpack. We believe that there's a best backpack for you. Our independent experts have recommended thousands of backpacks to hikers, campers, and backpackers of all sizes and skill levels, and this is a list of their top recommendations. Looking for a more personalized recommendation? Be sure to chat with a Camping & Hiking expert to find the perfect backpack for you and your next trip.
- Osprey Talon 33 Backpack
- Deuter Aircontact Lite 50 + 10 Backpack
- Osprey Aether Plus 60 Backpack
- Osprey - Atmos AG 50 Pack
- Osprey Aether 65 Backpack
- DEUTER - FUTURA VARIO 50 + 10 PACK
- Deuter Aircontact 65 + 10 L Backpack
- Osprey Women's Aura AG 65 Pack
- Deuter Aircontact Lite 45+10 SL Pack
- Mystery Ranch - Scree 32L Pack
Osprey Talon 33 Backpack
With 33L volume, this pack is the perfect size for long day hikes where you'll need to bring some extra gear, and can even be used to short and light overnight trips. With 6 external pockets and a large main compartment, there's plenty of space to stash all your rain gear, lunch and snacks, emergency and first aid supplies, camera, and anything else you want to bring along, and the water-resistant material will keep it all protected! Adjustable straps allow for the perfect fit!

Great stability and ability to keep well adjusted while hiking any terrain. This is an awesome size to pack light lite and travel from a day trip to a light over nighter.

Deuter Aircontact Lite 50 + 10 Backpack
This pack is perfect for medium-length trips (2-4 days) in hot weather. It's fairly light but carries loads very comfortably, and the removable lid/collar expansion gives you some leeway on capacity if you need it, and allows you to cinch it down tight if you don't. Its best feature is its ventilation system; there is a ton of airflow created by its padding structure that makes it great for hot weather conditions.

Osprey Aether Plus 60 Backpack
This pack is made for weekend or week long backpacking trips alike. The lightwire suspension distributes weight evenly across the hipbelt for a comfortable hike. The airscape backpanel provides stability AND airflow while you're on the move. The adjustable harness system fits a variety of different torso lengths. You can also remove the top lid (brain) and use it as a day pack when you want! I wish I had this pack!

Fit on the Fly hip belt and shoulder strap system.
Detachable top lid can be used for day pack.
Included Rain Cover
3L Hydration system compatible.
External straps and attachment points to secure trekking poles, ice axes and sleeping pad.
Backed by Ospreys All Mighty Guarantee

-Fit on the Fly hip belt and shoulder strap system.
-Detachable top lid can be used for day pack.
-Included Rain Cover
-3L Hydration system compatible.
-External straps and attachment points to secure trekking poles, ice axes and sleeping pad.
-Backed by Ospreys All Mighty Guarantee

Osprey - Atmos AG 50 Pack
With features such as Osprey's AntiGravity Suspension, a specific sleeping bag compartment, plenty of pockets, hydration reservoir-compatibility, and more, this pack is just about perfect! Plenty of adjustment points so you can get the perfect fit, and L or M size is recommended for someone with a 20" torso length.

This pack is designed with Osprey's anti-gravity Lightwire frame, helping spread the weight of the back evenly through the hipbelt, giving your pack a lighter feel when wearing it. This pack also provides easy stowing for possible trekking poles, and has a removeable lid for when it's not needed.

Osprey Aether 65 Backpack
This top-of-the-line pack is great for long trips, carrying heavy loads. It features Osprey's anti-gravity suspension which cradles around your back like a trampoline, and it has all the bells and whistles - like a removable top lid and an integrated rain cover. This pack is designed to make your load feel lighter and is a game changer for folks who haven't found a pack that is comfortable on their collarbones and shoulders.

DEUTER - FUTURA VARIO 50 + 10 PACK
Varislide system guarantees a good fit for any length back and the Aircomfort Sensic mesh system give you great ventilation to help keep you cool! Lots of additional features both inside and out make this pack incredibly versatile!

The Futura Vario 50+10 is comfort oriented with a tensioned mesh back panel to allow cooling airflow. I also love this one since has an integrated rain cover to ensure protection of your gear.

Great for multiday trips of any length! This pack also has an adjustable torso, ensuring a proper fit for a range of torso lengths!

Deuter Aircontact 65 + 10 L Backpack
A 65 liter pack that has adjustable and supportive features to make your backpacking trip more comfortable. Its backpanel is cushioned and breathable, giving you a secure fit while allowing moisture to escape. Includes a bottom zippered sleeping bag compartment, external loops for attaching gear on the outside of the pack like trekking poles and ice axes and includes a raincover. This pack does have an adjustable harness and will fit torso lengths from 16-21 inches and fits waist sizes 30-50 inches. Has a removable top lid that can double as a day pack.

The big gun of the Aircontact line, great for hauling all necessary gear for a week or more in the field, with lots of adjustability to stay comfy the whole time.

Osprey Women's Aura AG 65 Pack
A great women's specific backpack for multi-day backpacking trips. With 11+ compartments, this pack has ample storage and organization for gear. The Aura uses Osprey's anti-gravity suspension system which helps keep the pack off of your back while hiking, allowing for airflow and ventilation to keeps things comfortable. The shoulder pads and hipbelt feature additional padding for comfort and support and the top lid can be fully removed!

A super comfortable pack that has plenty of awesome features, including Anti-Gravity suspension, tons of pockets, and a removable lid to cut down on weight. Backed by Osprey's Almighty Guarantee!

Great suspension and ventilation, plenty of room for all your stuff.

Deuter Aircontact Lite 45+10 SL Pack
- Weight: 3.75 lbs
- Adjustable straps to customize fit
- 3L (100 oz) water reservoir sleeve
- Ventilated pads on shoulders, back and hip belt for the ultimate comfort
- Lid compartment
- Attachment loops to carry oversized items
- Durable fabric
- Separate bottom for easy access

This is a strong offering from Deuter that is part of their Slim Line collection - they're specifically designed for women or smaller men. One unique feature of this pack is Deuter's expandable collar and floating lid which allows the pack to grow or shrink 10L in volume when needed.

Mystery Ranch - Scree 32L Pack
Signature 3 zip design makes access easy.
Hydration compatible and an easy to reach water bottle side pocket.
Spacious zip pocket in the lid for smaller essentials.
2.8lbs

Waterproof and water tight zippers, multiple compartments. 3-way access. Hydration bladder compatible. Feature rich!

Deuter Aircontact 60 + 10 SL Backpack
Durable nylon material is treated with a DWR coating to shed light rain away, and the inside is accessible from the side, super convenient when what you want is at the bottom of your pack! Deuter packs are covered by a lifetime warranty.

Osprey Men's Atmos AG 65 Pack
This pack is stripped down from the workhorse Aether series to provide the same comfort and carry ability but focused more on better ventilation from the backpanel and slightly less bulk to reduce weight. Still great organization, adjustability and compression with all the fixings like shove it pocket, water bottle stretch pockets, sleeping bag compartment and rugged durability.

The Atmos features an anti-gravity suspension system which helps your load feel lighter than it really is (yes, please!). The adjustable harness and hipbelt allow you to customize the fit so it's just right for your body. The internal hydration sleeve accommodates a reservoir of up to 3L. This pack is protected by Osprey's All Mighty Lifetime Guarantee!

OSPREY - KYTE 46 WMNS PACK
This is a 46-liter pack which is a great option for a day pack, missions with more gear or an overnight backpacking pack.It has great support, good ventilation, and an adjustable shoulder harness for various torso sizes. It has a zippered sleeping bag compartment and includes a rain cover. It also has 6 compartments for more organization and storage. This size fits torso lengths from 16-20 inches and an adjustable waist length of 26-45 inches.

For shorter trips, this pack offers extreme breathability while not compromising on the adjustability. Side zipper access and hip belt pockets make accessing gear quick and easy.

Osprey has a lifetime warranty on their packs. They are comfortable and durable and have lots of useful pockets! Compatible with a hydration bladder as well.

Osprey Women's Aura AG 50 Pack
A solid women's specific backpack for hikers who need ample space and comfort for long days on the trail. This pack uses Osprey's anti-gravity suspension system which helps keep the backpack off of your back, providing ventilation and airflow. The shoulder pads and hip belts are cushioned for additional comfort and the top lid is removable. It features an adjustable harness and hipbelt which will best fit torso lengths from 18-21 inches and waist sizes from 27-48 inches.

Features Antigravity Suspension, removable lid, stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment, hydration compatibility, and plenty of pockets! Osprey boasts that this pack is the "best-fitting, most comfortable and ventilated women's-specific pack ever made for traditional backpacking trips"!

OSPREY - ARCHEON 45 MENS
A sustainably-made pack that is durable! Versatile enough to take hiking, traveling, canyoneering - or really anything else you might need a pack for. Great for longer hikes, missions with more gear or an overnight backpacking pack. It has great pocket access and size, has a hydration sleeve for your bladder and includes a raincover. It has an adjustable torso length that fits 19-23 inches and a waist size of 28-50 inches.

Deuter Aircontact 50 + 10 SL Backpack
Deuter packs are super unique, because they have an expandable collar allowing you to gain an extra 10L volume if you need it! This one-size-fits-all pack has a ton of adjustment points for the perfect fit, and the Aircontact Backpanel is designed so that the pack moves with the wearer, making it super comfortable to carry heavier loads. Tons of pockets and a hydration compatible sleeve round out this pack's awesome features!

This is a great women's specific backpacking pack with loads of volume up to 60L that has all the comfort, air flow and carrying ability features without breaking the bank. Access to the main compartment via the top, front and bottom sleeping bag compartment make packing and unpacking a breeze.

Osprey Tempest 20 Backpack
With hip belt pockets, water bottle pockets, hydration sleeve, panel loading top access, great organization and shove it pocket, this is truly a pack that will work for all outdoor activities. The ventilated back panel keeps air flow moving and carries weight effortlessly.

This is possibly the perfect day pack with just the right amount of space for layers, lunch, and other day hiking must haves. It features built in pockets on the hipbelt and is hydration system compatible.

Osprey Aether Plus 70 Backpack
Osprey is one of the leading backpack brands, and is known for high quality, durable, comfortable products. At 70L, this pack is the perfect size for weeklong or longer trips. Comfortable and with multiple adjustment points which can adjust at the hips, sternum, and shoulders for a perfect fit. A removable lid plus supplemental day pack for summit pushes and day hikes increases the versatility. An included rain cover keeps your gear nice and dry, and features such as hydration reservoir-compatible plus plenty of pockets make this a great pack! Backed by Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee!

This pack has the space for all of your gear over a 5 day trek and is built with quality processes and materials to last a lifetime! Plus, you get Osprey's "All Mighty Guarantee" where they will repair or replace any defects! Osprey packs remain comfortable at larger sizes and this one has a detachable daypack for any side excursions you don't need your entire pack for!

OSPREY - RENN 50 PACK
Lightweight and durable, the Renn is a great option for overnight or weekend trips into the backcountry. This bag is minimalist in design while still having all the features you really need. This pack is designed with a women's specific fit, integrated raincover, fantastic ventilation, and lower sleeping bag compartment. Secure your sleeping pad to the outside with dedicated sleeping pad straps. Hydration system compatible.

This is a great beginner pack that will provide you with all the storage and load bearing capability you need for a weekend trip all the way out to a 3-4 day long trip.

Osprey Talon 22 Backpack
This pack is a bit more structured to carry day hiking essentials like snacks, layers, water, first aid, light, phone etc while staying light and supportive. The hip belt pockets are ideal for small items with fast access.

Osprey Women's Tempest 24 Backpack
This pack is good for overnights and just plain old day hikes. Certainly rugged enough and has good space and pockets.

Injection molded backpanel and a hydration sleeve provide you breathability and hydration!

Mystery Ranch - Glacier Pack
A larger pack for multi-day backpacking trips or if you have larger or bulkier gear that you need to carry. Has easy-to-access compartments with side zippers to access the main compartment, two large vertical pockets on the front of the pack and a zippered bottom compartment for your sleeping bag. There are external attachment points for trekking poles or ice aces and a top lid that can detach to be used as a hip pack for day hikes. The back panel is cushioned foam for more comfort. This pack will fit torso lengths from 17-24 inches and waist sizes 39+ inches.

This pack can handle a week long outing easily and Mystery Ranch uses materials and craftsmanship that ensure their packs will last an exceptionally long time. Comfortable, spacious, and innovative. This top loading pack can handle all of your gear and has a speed-zip sleeping bag compartment that can accommodate even the bulkiest of bags.

71 liters, plenty of torpedo pockets and compression straps to store or hang your gear. An awesome, affordable expedition pack from Mystery Ranch!

Osprey Kestrel 48 Backpack
Just over 3.5lbs this pack is great for any kind of trip. It is extremely durable, comes with a rain cover, and loads of compression straps to keep the weight close to your body.

Mystery Ranch - Terraframe 3-Zip 50 Pack
Blending Mystery Ranch's 3 Zip design with their Overload feature makes this bag the bag for carrying heavy, awkward loads. Legendary durability and maximum comfort makes even the toughest trails a piece of cake.

Blending Mystery Ranch's 3 Zip design with their Overload feature makes this bag THE bag for carrying heavy, awkward loads. Legendary durability and maximum comfort makes even the toughest trails a piece of cake.

Osprey Exos 48 Blaze Black
This pack is meant for ultralight backpacking and weighs only 2lbs 9.6oz. Still provides support with an internal frame and foam harness for comfort. It has the option to remove the top lid, sleeping pad straps and the ice-axe attachments. Its lightweight design still provides external attachment points to attach gear to the outside of the pack. This pack will fit torso lengths of 20-23 inches and a waist size of 29-55 inches.

A great size for weekend trips - overnighters as well as long day hikes. As comfortable as all Osprey packs. Ultralight backpack for the weight conscious outdoor enthusiast! Comes in under 3lbs! Hydration compatible, top to bottom access, 4 pockets plus main compartment.

Great for lightweight travel with ample room inside and an outside front pocket for wet gear.

Mystery Ranch Ravine 50 Men's Backpack
A sturdy backpack for a variety of purposes - hiking, backpacking, hunting, or traveling. A unique 3-zipper design allows you to easily access the compartments. There are two long vertical compartments on the front of the pack for easy storage and access. It has thicker padding on the shoulder pads and hip belt for more support and comfort. Includes a hydration sleeve and two outer mesh side pockets for water bottles. This pack will fit torso lengths from 17-24 inches and a waist of 39+ inches. Adjustable and sturdy for users who want ultimate support.

Rugged, overbuilt 50L pack from the ashes of Dana Designs brand. This pack focuses on multi sport use with unique all access zipper system to gain entry to interior storage. These packs have a huge cult following with very durable and comfortable carry.

A really solid 50L pack that is lightweight and comfortable. The 3-zip design allows for easy access to your gear, and the frame design is extra supportive and stable.

Deuter - Aircontact 55+10 Pack
Suitable for 3-5 day treks.
Flexible ActiveFit shoulderstraps
VariQuick system allows for back length adjustment
Height adjustable lid
Separate bottom compartment with zip-on base
Front zip access - so nice because you don't have to go digging for things from the top
Padded hip belt
Mesh back panel and shoulder pads for optimal ventilation
Adjustable sternum belt
Rain cover
Elasticated inner compartment for storing for soiled clothes or for your water reservoir (compatible with up to 3L bladder)
Trekking pole holder
Removable backpack lid
Load adjustment straps
Pull forward hip fins
Two side outer pockets
Hip belt pocks for snacks, lip balm, keys and phone! Must have!

Feature rich, this pack comes with a raincover included, has a super breathable/ergonomic back panel and an extra 10L of storage found in the removable lid that can double as a basic day pack.

Mountainsmith - Scream 50 WSD Pack
A fantastic lightweight pack option for women! This pack weighs in at just 2lb 10oz while still providing durability and comfort. Easily access the contents of your pack through the roll top closure or the large front panel J-zipper! Designed with function in mind, this pack can easily accommodate bear canisters and is also hydration system compatible which makes staying hydrated on the trail easy breezy.

Ultra minimalist backpacking trips

Granite Gear Women's Perimeter 50 Pack
- Weight: 3.2 lbs
- Designed to fit the suspensions system to your body with it's ergonomic form, multiple adjustment points and spring steel perimeter rod.
- Hydration sleeve compatiable
- Thoughtful design features like rain fly storage and bottom flap for sleeping pad storage
- Durable fabric

The Granite Gear Perimeter 50 is great for beginner hikers all the way to expert thru hikers! It adjusts to fit every shape and size as well as has tons of pockets and room for all the extra necessities you may need to bring on your hike.

Great purpose built backpacking rig for women that fits comfortably and carries well but keeps the base weight low for staying nimble on the trail.

Mountainsmith Scream 55 Pack
Ultralight and ultra cool for minimalist hikers. Under 3lbs. Dual density EVA foam straps - this pack is solid!

Curated Experts don’t get paid by the manufacturer to write these reviews. All of their opinions are their own and unbiased. Want to learn more about our experts? Check out the video or view some of their profiles to learn more!
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