Most Recommended Backpacks of 2023

Updated

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.

Maicen Stuart, Camping Expert
Steven Nistler, Camping Expert
Francis Long, Camping Expert
By Backpack ExpertsMaicen, Steven, Francis and others
The Osprey Aura AG 50 Backpack is a top choice for women hikers seeking comfort and organization for extended trips in the backcountry. Its anti-gravity suspension system provides excellent ventilation and weight distribution, while the adjustable harness and hip belt ensure a perfect fit. The pack's numerous features, including a removable lid, hydration compatibility, and stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment, make it a versatile option for traditional backpacking trips.
Ideal for
  • Women hikers
  • Long days on the trail
  • Traditional backpacking trips
  • Weekend plus trips in the backcountry
  • Hikers needing ample space and comfort
Not ideal for
  • Those seeking the lightest weight option
Amy B, Camping Expert
Kat Smith, Camping Expert
Mike Smeaton (Griz), Camping Expert
by Curated experts Amy B, Kat Smith, Mike Smeaton (Griz)
The Osprey Atmos AG 50 Backpack is a top pick for 2023 due to its practicality and versatility. It's perfect for those who need easy access to their gear on the go, with features like side curved zippers to the main compartment, a detachable top lid with lash points for additional gear, and a front 'shove it' pocket for storing kit or dirty gear. It also boasts numerous side pockets, including a quick zipper pocket on the hip-belt. This backpack can comfortably carry up to 35 lbs.
Ideal for
  • Long hikes
  • Camping trips
  • Outdoor adventures
  • Travelers needing easy access to their gear
  • Individuals carrying up to 35 lbs of gear
Travis H., Camping Expert
by Curated expert Travis H.
The Gregory Baltoro 75L Backpack is a top pick for 2023, perfect for those seeking comfort and versatility in the wilderness. Its adjustable features, including torso length, hip-belt, shoulder harness, and lower back-panel, ensure a custom fit for a wide range of body types. The backpack's ventilated AirCushion back-panel keeps you fresh on extended trips, while its 9 external pockets and multiple access points make organization and gear retrieval a breeze. It even includes a day pack that doubles as a hydration sleeve.
Ideal for
  • Backpackers seeking maximum comfort regardless of load
  • Individuals planning extended trips into the wilderness
  • People with a wide range of body types due to its adjustable features
  • Backpackers who want to become more self-sufficient and go for longer trips in the back country
  • Those who value organization on longer trips
Not ideal for
  • Those looking for a day pack, as there are better smaller size options available
Elizabeth H., Camping Expert
Octavio Rivas, Camping Expert
Amy B, Camping Expert
by Curated experts Elizabeth H., Octavio Rivas, Amy B

Which gear are you interested in?

The Deuter Futura Air Trek 55+10 SL Backpack for Women is a top pick for 2023, offering a blend of comfort and generous capacity. It's perfect for those who love backpacking but are mindful of their budget. However, it's not the best choice for ultralight backpacking due to its larger size.
Ideal for
  • Budget-conscious backpackers
  • Those who prioritize comfort
  • Backpackers needing larger capacity
Not ideal for
  • Ultralight backpacking
Robert M, Camping Expert
by Curated expert Robert M
The Deuter Futura 30 SL Backpack is a women's specific backpack that is perfect for longer day hikes or even ultralight overnight trips. Its lightweight design and aircomfort back system provide comfort and breathability, making it a top pick for the Most Recommended Backpacks of 2023. The backpack also features a front mesh pocket for storing wet gear and is compatible with a 3L water reservoir. Plus, it comes with a rain cover, ensuring you're prepared for all weather conditions.
Ideal for
  • Longer day hikes
  • Ultralight overnight trips
  • Women hikers
  • Hikers in need of a lightweight backpack
  • Hikers who require a backpack with good ventilation
Amy B, Camping Expert
Mike Smeaton (Griz), Camping Expert
Tate Drucker, Camping Expert
by Curated experts Amy B, Mike Smeaton (Griz), Tate Drucker
The Deuter Aircomfort Lite 21 SL Backpack is a woman-specific fit, designed by women for women, making it perfect for female hikers. It's super lightweight and has a 21L capacity, ideal for day hikes. The backpack features a breathable mesh backing and hip belts for comfort during long hikes. It also boasts a long zipper in the front for easy access to gear, and multiple compartments for organized storage. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty from Deuter.
Ideal for
  • Women hikers
  • Day hikes
  • Long hikes
  • Users who prefer lightweight backpacks
  • Users who need organized storage
Tesia L., Camping Expert
Elizabeth H., Camping Expert
by Curated experts Tesia L., Elizabeth H.
The Deuter Women's Futura Air Trek 45+10L SL Backpack is a top recommendation for 2023 due to its eco-friendly design, made with 50% recycled content. Its comfortable shoulder straps ensure the pack's weight is manageable, while the integrated, detachable rain cover protects your gear. Plus, the reflector logo enhances visibility in low light, making it a versatile choice for various outdoor scenarios.
Ideal for
  • Eco-conscious consumers
  • Outdoor enthusiasts
  • Night-time adventurers
  • Long-distance trekkers
  • Individuals who carry heavy gear
Aria Lynn, Camping Expert
by Curated expert Aria Lynn
The Deuter Futura Pro 40L Backpack is a top choice for 2023, ideal for those who love longer day hikes and weekend trips. Its standout features include an ergonomic Aircomfort Sensic Pro mesh backing that provides exceptional comfort and superior back ventilation. The added Veriflex ECL hip fins offer robust support for heavy loads, and the padded inserts enhance carry comfort. With a large main compartment, separate bottom compartment, lid compartment, and side bellows pockets, gear organization and access is a breeze.
Ideal for
  • Long day hikes
  • Weekend trips
  • Carrying heavy loads
  • Organizing gear
  • Comfortable and ventilated back support
Adam L., Camping Expert
Elizabeth H., Camping Expert
by Curated experts Adam L., Elizabeth H.

Curated experts can help

Have a question about the article you just read or want personal recommendations? Connect with a Curated expert to find exactly what you are looking for!
Result Summary
  1. Osprey Aura AG 50L Backpack · Women's
  2. Osprey Atmos AG 50L Backpack
  3. Gregory Baltoro 75L Backpack
  4. Deuter Futura Air Trek 55+10 SL Backpack · Women's
  5. Deuter Futura 30 SL Backpack · Women's
  6. Deuter Aircomfort Lite 21 SL Backpack · Women's
  7. Deuter Futura Air Trek 45+10L SL Backpack · Women's
  8. Deuter Futura Pro 40L Backpack
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