Most Recommended Backpacks Under $400
Updated
Curated Camping & Hiking experts help thousands of customers every season find the best gear within their budget. Check out their most recommended backpacks under $400, and then be sure to chat with an expert here on Curated to receive advice and recommendations on the best backpack for you.
By Backpack ExpertsMaicen, Steven, Francis and others
The Osprey Aura AG 50 Backpack is a women's specific backpack designed for long hiking trips. It features an anti-gravity suspension system for ventilation and comfort, cushioned shoulder pads and hip belts, and an adjustable harness and hipbelt. It's also equipped with a removable lid, stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment, hydration compatibility, and plenty of pockets for organization. However, it's not the lightest option available, weighing in at 4lbs 3oz.
by Curated experts Amy B, Kat Smith, Mike Smeaton (Griz)
Ideal for
- Long hiking trips
- Women hikers
- Backpacking trips
- Weekend trips in the backcountry
- Hikers needing ample space and comfort
Not ideal for
- Those seeking a lightweight backpack
The Deuter Men's Futura Air Trek 50+10L Backpack is a versatile and customizable backpack, perfect for hikers and travelers planning trips of varying lengths. It's unique for its ability to expand from 50L to 60L and adjust the torso length for a perfect fit. It's hydration-system compatible, has plenty of pockets, and comes with a rain cover. It's also one of the most comfortable packs available, making it ideal for backpacking when comfort is more important than going ultralight.
by Curated experts Kat Smith, Tesia L., Alex Dolan
Ideal for
- Hikers
- Travelers
- Backpacking when comfort is prioritized over going ultralight
Not ideal for
- Ultralight backpacking
The Osprey Talon 22 Backpack is a top pick for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a versatile, feature-rich pack. It's perfect for day hikes, comfortably fitting essentials like snacks, water, and layers. The pack's design includes hip belt pockets for quick access items, a breathable back panel, and an internal hydration bladder sleeve. Despite being a bit heavier and not waterproof, its durability, comfort, and organization make it a standout choice.
by Curated experts Hunter Reed, Gregg Mason, Elizabeth H.
Ideal for
- Day hikes
- Outdoor enthusiasts
- Those needing a versatile pack
- Carrying essentials like snacks, water, layers
- Those who value organization and quick access to items
Not ideal for
- Those seeking a lightweight pack
- Those needing a waterproof pack
- Minimalists
Which gear are you interested in?
The Osprey Aether Plus 70 Backpack is a top choice for those embarking on weeklong or longer trips. Known for its high-quality, durability, and comfort, this backpack offers 70L of space, multiple adjustment points for a perfect fit, and a removable lid plus supplemental day pack for versatility. It also includes a rain cover and is hydration reservoir-compatible. Osprey's 'All Mighty Guarantee' ensures it's a reliable choice for gear-intensive outings.
by Curated experts Kat Smith, Tim Van Pelt
Ideal for
- Weeklong or longer trips
- Gear-intensive outings
- Those needing a versatile and adjustable backpack
- Those who value high-quality, durable products
- Those who need hydration reservoir compatibility
The Mystery Ranch Terraframe 65L Backpack is a top choice for hikers and adventurers embarking on big-mountain excursions. Its unique hybrid internal/external carbon-fiber frame can comfortably carry heavy loads up to 150 lbs. The pack features an OVERLOAD system for extra storage, daisy chain tool attachments, and a convertible daypack lid with hydration porting. It's perfect for those needing to carry bulkier items securely, with interior straps to keep things organized and a hydration reservoir pocket for easy access to water.
by Curated experts Kevin Nocom, Elizabeth H., Alex Dolan
Ideal for
- Hikers and adventurers tackling big-mountain excursions
- Individuals needing to carry heavy loads up to 150 lbs
- Those needing extra storage capacity
- People needing to stay organized with gear
- Individuals needing easy access to hydration on the go
The Mystery Ranch Terraframe 3-Zip 50L Pack is a top choice for those who frequently carry heavy, awkward loads on their outdoor adventures. Its unique 3 Zip design and Overload feature, combined with its legendary durability and maximum comfort, make it perfect for even the toughest trails. However, it may not be ideal for those seeking a lightweight pack.
by Curated experts David Diet, Deirdre D.
Ideal for
- Outdoor enthusiasts who frequently carry heavy, awkward loads
- Scout leaders or those who often shoulder the burden for a lot of gear
- Hikers who tackle tough trails and need a durable, comfortable pack
Not ideal for
- Those seeking a lightweight pack
The Osprey Atmos AG 50 Backpack is a practical and versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Its standout features include a rain cover, side curved zippers for easy access, and a detachable top lid with lash points for extra gear. The front 'shove it' pocket and side pockets, including a quick zipper pocket on the hip-belt, offer ample storage. It comfortably carries up to 35 lbs, making it perfect for those who need a reliable backpack for their adventures.
by Curated expert Travis H.
Ideal for
- Outdoor enthusiasts
- Hikers
- Campers
- Travelers needing ample storage
- Individuals carrying up to 35 lbs of gear
The Gregory Amber 65 Backpack for women is a top choice for those seeking a backpack that offers a perfect blend of comfort, organization, and durability. It's specifically designed for women and features a super adjustable and breathable back-panel. With a generous 65L volume, it provides ample space for your gear and is hydration compatible. The backpack also boasts numerous internal and external pockets for organization and even includes a rain-cover, making it a reliable companion for any outdoor adventure.by Curated experts Elizabeth H., Alex Dolan
Ideal for
- Women seeking a comfortable and adjustable backpack
- Outdoor enthusiasts needing ample storage space
- Individuals who value organization in their gear
- Adventurers who require hydration compatibility
- Travelers needing a backpack with a rain-cover
The Gregory Amber 55 Backpack for Women is a versatile choice for any trip length, making it a top pick for our Most Recommended Backpacks Under $400. Its standout feature is the widely adjustable torso length, allowing users to achieve the perfect fit. However, it's not the best choice for ultralight backpacking.
by Curated expert Robert M
Ideal for
- Trips of any length
- Backpacking with the need for a customizable fit
Not ideal for
- Ultralight backpacking
The Gregory Baltoro 75L Backpack is a versatile and comfortable choice for those who love extended wilderness trips. Its adjustable 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, while its 9 external pockets and multiple access points keep your gear organized and accessible. It even includes a day pack that doubles as a hydration sleeve.
by Curated experts Elizabeth H., Octavio Rivas, Amy B
Ideal for
- Extended trips into the wilderness
- Backpackers seeking self-sufficiency
- Individuals who need a backpack with multiple access points
- Those who prefer a custom fit suspension
- People who require a lot of external pockets for organization
Not ideal for
- Use as a day pack
Other lists to consider
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
- Osprey Aura AG 50L Backpack · Women's
- Deuter Futura Air Trek 50+10L Backpack
- Osprey Talon 22L Backpack
- Osprey Aether Plus 70L Backpack
- Mystery Ranch Terraframe 65L Backpack
- Mystery Ranch Terraframe 3-Zip 50L Backpack
- Osprey Atmos AG 50L Backpack
- Gregory Amber 65L Backpack · Women's
- Gregory Amber 55L Backpack · Women's
- Gregory Baltoro 75L Backpack
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