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The Best Backpacking Packs for Any Adventure

We spent five months testing the year’s top multiday packs. these 10 rose above the rest..

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Shopping for a multiday pack can be intimidating. Big haulers are often pricey, and the variety of materials and features can be mind-numbing. To help you streamline your shopping, we spent five months putting more than a dozen and a half of this season’s best packs under the microscope—and under a whole lot of weight. These are the packs worth taking home.

At a Glance

• Editor’s Choice: Mystery Ranch Radix 57 ($299)
• Best for Short Overnights: Deuter Aircontact Ultra 35+5 ($240)
• Most Versatile: Sierra Designs Nexus Lite 35-50 ($250)
• Lightest: Black Diamond Betalight 45 ($400)
• Best for Long Trails:  Outdoor Vitals CS40 Ultra ($368)
• Best for First-Timers: 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 Bigger Bodies: Osprey Rook/Renn 65 EF ($190)

Choosing the Right Backpacking Pack

How we test, meet our testers.

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more .

Editors’ Choice

Mystery ranch radix 57.

$299 at Backcountry (Women’s) $299 at Backcountry (Men’s)

Weight: 3.8 lbs Size: M’s S-XL and W’s XS-L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Superior load carry ⊕ Carrying comfort ⊗ Tiny hydration sleeve

The Radix 57 doesn’t just look sexy with its sleek monochrome fabric and tantalizing, full-length side zipper. It also delivers best-in-class comfort, load carry, and gear access all in a sub-4-pound package—about a pound less than many other packs capable of carrying similar loads. The secret: shaving weight by using space-age materials—not skimping on suspension. On the outside, a strong-but-gossamer 100-denier Robic nylon is reinforced with a grid of ultra-high molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), a uniquely strong and waterproof thread. While the pack itself isn’t seam-taped—and therefore isn’t waterproof—the use of the UHMWPE makes it highly water-resistant as well as abrasion-resistant. “I’ve squeezed under large blow-downs and past grabby bushes and trees,” reports Washington-based tester Matt Wise. “The pack hasn’t been phased.”

On the inside, a 7000-series aerospace-grade aluminum frame keeps loads close to the back. The frame, which is lightbulb-shaped and contoured to match the spine, provides both vertical stability and adequate torsional flex to support a natural gait. Load lifters and a cushy hipbelt further boost comfort. As a result, testers were able to heft up to 50 pounds without soreness. While there are other UHMWPE packs that can carry up to 60 or 70 pounds, most cost twice as much. “It’s the best pack I’ve tested yet,” says Wise. “It’s become my go-to for three- to four-day trips.”

Organization is outstanding for a lightweight pack: an off-center, full-length zipper flays the bag open nearly flat, making gear access and camp setup a breeze. The waist pockets each fit a phone, and large lateral pockets are angled for easy access while hiking. Even better news for weight-conscious hikers: the roomy toplid, compression straps, and frame are all removable, allowing it to function as a breezy overnight pack; the Radix 57 weighs just 3 pounds stripped.

Read our full review to learn more

Best for Short Overnights

Deuter aircontact ultra 35+5.

$240 at Amazon

Weight: 2.5 lbs Size: M’s and W’s, two sizes each

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Breathable ⊕ Good load-carrying capacity ⊗ Small pockets

The Aircontact Ultra has been an outstanding bag for years—we gave the 50+5 an Editor’s Choice Award in 2022 —thanks to its low weight, well-rounded features, and impressive durability. But the new 35+5 is a whole different beast. This pack sports a redesigned suspension that’s lighter and more breathable—and yet still more robust than some others in this weight range. The pack’s W-shaped, 2-millimeter spring-steel frame is molded to follow the S-curve of the back. This 3D contouring enhances its strength, letting us carry up to 25 pounds with ease. While the bag is relatively narrow, the 40-liter rating feels spot-on; we were able to fit a lightweight overnight kit and still had room to spare.

Generous sacral padding prevents lower back soreness, and molded foam in the backpanel permits some airflow—a feature tester Robin Mino was happy to have on a weekend trip to Colorado’s James Lake Wilderness in 70-degree heat. She also appreciated the generous stretch-mesh dorsal pocket, which allowed her to stuff layers quickly as the mercury rose.

Two small hipbelt pockets were adequate for snacks—but not a phone—and the removable toplid easily held a hat, gloves, and sunscreen. This toploader offers no bottom- or side-zipper access to the main packbag, but the minimalists among us didn’t mind. “The organizational layout is simple, which made it easy to pack overnight gear for quick trips around the Colorado Front Range,” reports packs category manager Corey Buhay. So far, she says, the material—a 175-denier polyamide with a UHMWPE ripstop grid—shows no signs of wear, even while scraping past boulders and talus in Colorado’s Eldorado Springs Canyon. (Note: Deuter’s use of “Ultra” in the pack name is unrelated to the popular ultralight material of the same name.)

Most Versatile

Sierra designs nexus lite 35-50.

$250 at Sierra Designs

Weight: 3 lbs (multiday configuration), 2.4 lbs (daypack configuration) Size: Unisex, S/M and M/L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Modular components ⊕ Good durability ⊗ Minimalist hipbelt ⊗ No hydration hose port ⊗ Zipperless entry can be fiddly

Plenty of packs expand or contract by a few liters. Few are capable of full metamorphosis. Enter the Sierra Designs Nexus. Simply snap on a removable, stuff-sack-like garment bag (which acts as a roomy external pocket) and toplid, and this 35-liter daypack transforms into a fully fledged 50-liter overnight bag. Stretch-mesh side pockets, a hydration pouch, and hipbelt pockets made it easy to grab water and gear in either configuration. Better yet, the Nexus felt comfortable at both day-trip and overnight weights up to 25 pounds. Thanks to the roll-top, which expands for bigger loads, Backpacker Assistant Editor Emma Veidt was able to carry her sleeping bag, pad, stove, tent, and layers without issue. Credit goes to a Y-shaped aluminum frame. The system transfers weight to the lightly padded hipbelt while allowing shoulders to rotate naturally with each arm swing. “It was so comfortable—no pack sway,” said Veidt after an Appalachian Trail section hike. And when she found herself in need of an afternoon nap, she was able to use the removable, water-resistant garment bag—which has a soft inner liner—as a backcountry pillow.

Durability was impressive, not only because the pack utilizes a DWR-coated, 200-denier recycled nylon, but also because zippers, a notorious weak spot, are absent from this buckle-only pack. The only place we missed the zips? On the hipbelt pockets, where stretch-mesh flaps fit snacks and a headlamp, but provide limited security.

Black Diamond Betalight UL 45

$400 at Black Diamond

Weight: 1.9 lbs (1.1 lbs stripped) Size: Unisex; XS-L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Plentiful organization ⊕ Durable materials ⊗ Subpar breathability ⊗ Price

The Beta Light UL was already one of the lightest bags we tested this season. But, thanks to a removable hipbelt, frame, and backpanel, it can get even lighter. At just 1 lb. 2 oz. fully stripped, this sleek fastpacking pack quickly became our go-to for speedy, big-mileage missions.

The Beta Light UL owes its gravity-defying weight to a minimalist layout and ultralight materials. The frame is comprised of dual aluminum stays, which transfer loads of up to 35 pounds to a lightly padded hipbelt. A closed-cell foam panel helps protect the back from pointy cargo (though it isn’t very breathable). Even with the stays removed, the pack was able to support about 25 pounds with ease, thanks to a broad, vest-style harness that spreads weight across the chest and shoulders. A toploading entry—which closes via a cinch and buckle—provides the only way in or out of the main pack bag. However, generous chest pockets kept essential sundries close so we never had to go digging.

While most ultralight packs call it quits at three pockets, the Beta Light UL sports a 3-liter internal hydration sleeve, three chest pockets, and two hipbelt pockets, each big enough to fit a phone or camera.

Ultra 200—a superlight, waterproof laminate fabric—covers the majority of the bag. Taped seams make it fully waterproof. Over four months of testing, the Ultra 200 defied torrential rain on foraging trips in Alaska as well as scratches from pine branches and sharp scree. Even the finely woven nylon stretch mesh on the lateral bottle pockets and dorsal shove-it pocket escaped all but one small hole over the course of the season.

Best for Long Trails

Outdoor vitals cs40 ultra.

$368 at Outdoor Vitals

Weight: 1.7 lbs Size: Unisex, S-L torso and S-L belt

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Comfortable carry ⊕ Carbon frame ⊗ Subpar organization ⊗ Minimal padding

Thru-hikers, add this one to your vision board. At well under two pounds, the CS40 is lighter than many top ultralight packs. But unlike many of its contemporaries, this baby comes equipped with load-lifters, a real hipbelt, and a full frame. The dual carbon stays add just an ounce each—but boost the CS40’s load-carrying capacity to 35 pounds. Even more impressive: pack category manager Corey Buhay found the CS40 remained comfortable even fully loaded, thanks to the hipbelt’s dual adjustment points and broad hip wings. While the belt’s minimalist padding left our more bony-hipped testers sore, most found it perfectly contoured to prevent hot spots, even after sweaty, 20-mile days in the Appalachians.

A U-shaped foam back panel provides targeted padding. While the close-to-body fit did inhibit breathability, it also prevented pack sway. “I could cinch down the main compartment and not feel any wobble during summit trips,” says Colorado tester Robin Mino after a season of bagging Fourteeners.

Organization was decent. The main bag is sufficiently cavernous to fit a bear canister while maintaining room for the rest of your kit, and the roll-top adds about 10 extra liters fully extended. Two small zippered hip pockets fit snacks and sunscreen, and each side pocket (angled for accessibility while hiking) fits a Nalgene. The dorsal stretch pocket was perfect for stuffing wet layers. While the pack isn’t seam-taped and won’t keep your gear safe during extended downpours, the waterproof Ultra 200 fabric and rolltop design kept gear dry through both light rain and wet bushwhacks. Both the abrasion-resistant Ultra 200 and accessory stretch mesh ended the season without a scratch.

Best for First-Timers

Rab muon 50.

$260 at Backcountry (Women’s) $260 at Backcountry (Men’s)

Weight: 2.3 lbs Size: M’s and W’s, one size each

Pros and Cons ⊕ Comfortable carry ⊕ Huge pockets ⊕ Relatively lightweight ⊗ Fiddly sternum straps ⊗ No hipbelt pockets

After five months of testing across three different states, the Rab Muon 50 became our go-to recommendation for first-time backpackers thanks to a near-perfect balance of comfort, weight, features, and price.

For starters, the aluminum perimeter frame is sturdy enough to transfer loads up to 35 pounds to the hip-hugging waist belt. Both the wide hip wings and contoured lumbar pad are cushioned with a plush EVA foam. Editor Zoe Gates reported no chafing or hot spots, even after a 35-mile thru-hike of North Carolina’s Art Loeb Trail. Deep channels in the foam back panel helped maintain airflow and breathability on sweaty uphills.

Organization is unfussy. A surprisingly large main packbag accommodates three days of food, overnight gear, and a bear canister. The two enormous side pockets are accessible while hiking, and a large dorsal shove-it sleeve fits a day’s food and layers. We could stuff a hat, gloves, and snacks in the roomy toplid and a three-liter reservoir in the hydration sleeve. (Ding: Though the vest-style harness sports two zippered chest pouches big enough to squeeze a smartphone, there were no hip pockets.) The simple layout also keeps the weight low—a major bonus for first-timers.

The main pack body material, a 100-denier high-tenacity ripstop nylon, should be durable enough to survive the beginner years. Despite getting thrown on rocks in Colorado and shoved through rhododendron thickets in North Carolina, our test pack remained scratch-free. And at just $260, the Muon is more affordable than most of the packs on this list—giving the backpacking-curious one less reason to stay on the fence.

Best Organization

Lowe alpine yacuri 55.

$320 at Rab

Weight: 4.2 lbs Size: M’s & W’s, one size each

Pros and Cons ⊕ Plentiful pockets ⊕ Easy gear access ⊕ Included raincover ⊗ Limited load-carrying capacity for a pack of this weight

Most of the frustration of backpacking usually arises during points of transition: starting, stopping, digging for gear, packing, and unpacking. The Yacuri 55 is designed to eliminate much of that irritation.

The key is a streamlined organization system. Equipped with both hipbelt and chest pockets, this pack is built to keep you moving. Each hip pocket fits a full baggie of trail mix, and the roomy toplid boasts three zippered compartments. Stretch-mesh side pockets and a shove-it sleeve facilitate gear-stuffing on-the-go. And, thanks to the bottom-access zipper and a U-shaped dorsal zipper, camp setup and breakdown are a breeze.

The pack is so comfortable that testers rarely had to take it off. An adjustable backpanel makes it easy to dial in fit, and the 6-mm aluminum wire frame braces loads up to 30 pounds, according to tester Jim Pierce, who took the Yacuri on a 45-mile backpack of Idaho’s Centennial Trail. The hipbelt was thickly padded, though some testers reported that the contouring was a little off, causing chafing.

The pack comes with an included rain cover, but we rarely needed it; the DWR coating repelled water during both light showers and wet bushwhacks. And the 330-denier polyester (and 550-denier nylon boot) proved plenty durable. On the Centennial Trail, Pierce reported: “The buck brush was so thick that I was walking on branches and couldn’t even see the ground—the pack was unscathed.”

Best For Technical Terrain

Mountain hardwear direttissima 55l.

$420 at Mountain Hardwear

Weight: 4.7 lbs (S/M) Size: Unisex, S/M and M/L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Comfortable carry ⊕ Decent organization ⊕ Durable materials ⊗ Poor breathability

If you’ve got a big climb standing between you and camp, you’ll want the Direttissima on your side. “Even after 3,000 feet of vertical gain with a 40-pound load, my hips felt fine,” gushed Katie Griffith, a Washington-based climbing guide who’s typically prone to hip sores. “This is probably the most comfortable climbing pack I’ve used.”

Credit goes to the aerospace-grade, V-shaped aluminum frame, which transfers loads to the center of a lightly-padded hipbelt. There, the tip of the V creates a pivot point, which allows the pack to rock and twist with your body. We found the pack moved with us, even while scrambling, traversing glaciers, and ‘shwacking up primitive approach trails. The one tradeoff to that close-to-back fit: breathability. We often arrived at the base of our objectives soaked in sweat.

Despite all the rough handling, the pack showed no signs of wear. The Direttissima owes its durability to its cutting-edge fabrics. The sides and toplid sport a PU-coated, 210-denier nylon ripstop, while the dorsal panel is Challenge Sailcloth’s Ultra 400TX, which has a higher tear strength and double the abrasion resistance as the Ultra 200 fabric found in some of the year’s other packs. The boot is further reinforced with an 840-denier carbonate-coated nylon—the highest-denier fabric in the test.

The Direttissima is also better organized than most alpine packs. It sports a 8-liter toplid as well as ice-axe and gear loops. Plentiful external straps made it easy to lash on a helmet, and a small removable pouch fits low-profile aluminum crampons. (The hipbelt and toplid are also removable for lighter-weight missions.) A single zipper provides side access, and a sole hipbelt pocket holds snacks, lip balm, and sunscreen. Another bonus: the Direttissima fits seamlessly over a harness. “I didn’t even notice I had it on,” reports Oregon mountain guide Kelly Rice.

Most Eco-Friendly

Fjällräven kajka 65.

$375 at Fjällräven

Weight: 6.4 lbs Size: Unisex; S/M and M/L

Pros and Cons ⊕ Top-notch durability ⊕ Excellent load carry ⊕ Included raincover ⊗ Weight

Many eco-friendly packs with alternative materials have one major downside: they’re heavy. Fjällräven, especially, is known for its weighty packs owing to the brand’s use of wood and canvas. But now, major material and design updates have shaved more than a pound off previous editions of the Kajka, making this low-carbon-footprint favorite more accessible—and comfortable—than ever.

Several features contribute to the Kajka’s eco cred. For one, the combination of proprietary synthetic polyvinyl and burly 500-denier nylon ensures that your Kajka will likely outlive you (and therefore stay out of the landfill). Second, polyvinyl is naturally dirt- and water-resistant, eliminating the need for additional chemical treatments. Proof: the Kajka successfully deflected wet vegetation, rain, and sandstone scrapes on North Carolina bushwhacks and Arizona canyoneering trips alike. The nylon is fully recycled, and the dual vertical stays are made of flexible-but-strong renewable birch.

Thanks to the unique frame and plush hipbelt, photographer Evan Green was able to carry 50 pounds of camera equipment on a 35-mile backpack through Western North Carolina. He reported stable carry, even while running up hills to get the shot.

Green was also impressed with the Kajka’s organization. A full U-shaped zipper afforded him quick access to both memory cards and overnight gear, and massive lateral zipper pockets kept snacks and layers handy. Each hipbelt pocket fits a phone, and bungeed side pockets accommodate Nalgenes. Fun bonus: The removable toplid converts into both a chest pack and a shoulder bag.

Best for Bigger Bodies

Osprey rook/renn 65 ef.

$190 at REI (Renn/Women’s) $190 at REI (Rook/Men’s)

Weight: 3.8 lbs (Renn) Size: M’s and W’s; one size each

Pros and Cons ⊕ Adjustable backpanel ⊕ Included raincover ⊕ Good load carry ⊕ Affordable price ⊗ Subpar breathability

Most plus-size backpacks feel like an afterthought, but the Rook/Renn 65 EF was specifically designed for the needs and nuances of bigger bodies. The hip pockets are positioned to remain accessible even with the waist belt extended to its full 70-inches. Likewise, the harness padding is extended and contoured to comfortably wrap broader shoulders and waists.

Though the Rook/Renn 65 EF only comes in a single size for each gender, it sports four inches of torso-length adjustability. Testers found the adjustment system—two parallel ladders with plastic toggles—easy to manipulate. And testers of all sizes felt that the 4-mm aluminum perimeter frame let them carry extra heavy loads.“I packed about 45 pounds to an alpine hut,” says Diandra Oliver, a tester based in British Columbia. “I had plenty of room left in the bag and could have carried more.”

She also lauded the plentiful organization, which made it easy to quickly stuff gear for an early start. Deep bottle pockets, a massive toplid, and a stretchy dorsal sleeve swelled to fit extra layers. A three-liter hydration sleeve and included raincover round out the features.

The only downside was breathability: the backpanel’s mesh trampoline is hourglass-shaped, which means that larger bodies tend to block airflow on either side of the mesh. As a result, we ended humid hikes in the Adirondacks soaked with sweat.

So far, the pack’s burly 600-denier recycled polyester has defied scrapes, even after a season of bashing. “I threw it on rocks and packed my axe inside with a cereal box for a blade cover,” Oliver reports. “No holes or wear.”

Your choice of pack can make the difference between a life-changing trip and a miserable one. Here’s how to choose.

1. Capacity: The first step is to determine what kind of capacity you need. For one- to three-night trips, target 40 to 55 liters. For gear-intensive trips or those nearing a week in length, you’ll likely need 60 to 70 liters. When you go shopping, bring your full kit—clothes, water, sleeping bag, tent, the works. Make sure it all fits in the pack before you buy.

2. Fit: No discount is worth sacrificing your comfort for. Before you buy, have a gear shop employee measure your torso length (the distance from the vertebra at the base of your neck to the point midway between your iliac crests). Most people are between 16 and 21 inches. Make sure this number falls within the range of your prospective pack’s specs. Then, try it on. Swing your arms, rock your head back, and leap around. The pack should feel snug but not too tight, and it should move with your body without impairing motion.

3. Load-carrying capacity: How much can your pack comfortably carry? Lightweight and ultralight packs may look sleek, but many cap out around 25 pounds—a tough weight to achieve if you prefer a few creature comforts. Beefier packs can often tote up to 50 or 60 pounds, but they also weigh more when empty.

4. Features: Now consider your backpacking style. If you like to snack on the go, prioritize hipbelt and chest pockets. If you’re a reservoir person rather than a bottle person, make sure there’s a built-in hydration sleeve and hose port. If you plan to carry an ice axe or trekking poles, look for stowage loops. Your preferences may change over time, but make sure your pack meets your basic needs.

• Total miles: 425
• Total vertical feet: 119,500
• Coldest temp: 28°F (Denali National Park, AK, Diane Van Dommelen)
• Hottest temp: 98°F (New River Gorge, WV, Ashley Manning)
• Highest elevation: 14,007 (Mt. of the Holy Cross, CO, Robin Mino)
• Highest winds: 35 mph (Continental Divide Trail, CO, Robin Mino)
• Heaviest Load: 50 lbs (Evan Green, Kajka 65)
• Biggest oops: One tester strapped his bag of camp meals to the outside of his pack, went bushwhacking, and promptly lost all his food. He had to hike out via an emergency Forest Service road exit

Backpacking packs are among the toughest items to fully test within the course of a season. They’re more complex than apparel, they take longer than boots to show their pain points, and all the bells and whistles can take dozens of miles to evaluate. That means each pack needs at least two testers and 50 to 100 miles on the trail at a minimum—all in just a five-month span. Every testing season is a madcap race to drive as many packs into the ground as fast as we possibly can. Samples usually start trickling into the office in July. From then on, it’s a game of hot potato: we rush to ship them to our hardest-charging testers. When one trip ends, the pack flies back to the post office and into the hands of the next tester.

This year, we evaluated 19 total packs. The ones without technical features, load-bearing hip belts, or suspensions appropriate for their carrying capacity, we eliminated from the test. From there we distributed our candidates to 20 testers across nine states and three countries—as far as Canada, Alaska, and Argentina. Those that broke, tore, or left our testers aching were either re-tested or cut from the running. Those that lightened loads, kept us moving, or made us forget we were wearing packs at all made the list.

Corey Buhay is a former Backpacker editor and co-author of the hiking guidebook Colorado Rockies. She is currently based in Boulder, Colorado. She’s been managing the packs category for Backpacker since 2019, and has developed very strong opinions about hipbelt pockets.

Erica Givans is a longtime backpacker, ice climber, and artist from Bend, Oregon. She currently lives in Denver, Colorado, where she alternates between seeking out hot springs and packrafting on alpine lakes throughout the Rockies.

Nate Pipenberg is a freelance writer and trailworker and the author of Backpacke r’s ultralight hiking column. He recently finished hiking the Idaho Centennial Trail, and he’s currently working on a guidebook of gravel bike routes near his home in Boise, Idaho.

When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.

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The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

By Laura Lancaster

Updated on Sep 12, 2023 6:52 PM EDT

21 minute read

Best Overall

Mystery Ranch Bridger

Best men's.

Deuter Aircontact Core

Best women's.

Gregory Deva

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

Choosing the right backpacking backpack is tough. Even if you have the luxury of a nearby REI or Cabela’s, there is only so much you can learn about how comfortable a backpack is from walking around the store. To really get a feel for the fit of a pack, you have to take it out into the field for a few days. Does it bruise your hips on day two? Pull at your clavicle when it’s fully loaded? Can you balance the load of your current backpacking kit properly? To help you choose the best backpacking backpack for your body type and shape, I sent three experienced backpackers with different physical builds into the field with popular packs from Deuter, Gregory, Big Agnes, Mystery Ranch, and Kelty. 

• Best Overall : Mystery Ranch Bridger
• Best for Men : Deuter Aircontact Core
• Best for Women : Gregory Deva
• Best for Small Frames : Kelty Coyote
• Best Ultralight : ULA Circuit

Topics Covered ( Click the text to jump to the section )

How We Tested the Best Backpacking Backpacks

With plenty of backpacking gear, it’s possible to objectively quantify what the “best” products are in any category. For example, the best backpacking water filters need to be able to perform reliably across a wide variety of water sources. The best tent stakes need to have great holding power at a low weight. The best backpacking quilts maximize warmth for weight and comfort. But what makes for the best backpacking backpack is more subjective.

The Challenge of Finding the Best Backpacking Backpack

That’s because backpackers are not a one-size-fits-all group. Our loads are different: 20 pounds for an overnight is going to carry a lot differently than 40 pounds for a weeklong trip. Then there is how you pack that gear into your pack—do you use a water bladder or Nalgenes? Are you carrying lots of layers that you’ll need easy access to, or are you hiking in a fair-weather climate? But the biggest X factor of all is you: the shape of the hip belt, the curve of the shoulder strap, the fit of the torso all vary between backpacks, and choosing a backpack that’s wrong for your frame can result in everything from back pain to bruising along the hips or clavicle.

Testing the Packs in the Field

To help unpack which backpacking backpacks work with which body types, we selected an experienced panel of testers that span a range of hip and torso measurements. They then tested a series of backpacks, from the likes of Gregory, Mystery Ranch, Deuter, Big Agnes, and Kelty, in parallel. Each backpack went out for a minimum of an overnight with each tester, and often for much longer than that. Backpacks were tested for a minimum of 50 miles between all three testers, with their top picks often exceeding 100 miles. Testing occurred throughout the year on both coasts, in conditions ranging from scorching summer temperatures to light snow. 

Scoring the Packs

At the end of their test, they each filled out a comprehensive testing sheet where they described their experience of the backpack from start to finish. They described how they packed each backpack, noting whether their gear fit or had to be rearranged. The adjustment points were checked for functionality, to ensure they could fit it appropriately to their frames. They then reported back on where and when pain occurred while they were out in the field, including strained shoulder muscles and bruised hips. While out in the field, the testers considered whether the design of the pack helped or hindered their ability to access their gear. They also scored each backpack from 1 (poor) to 10 (excellent) on the following:

• Fit: Could you adjust it to your satisfaction?
• Comfort: Did the pack cause you any pain or discomfort?
• Load Bearing: How did it handle a heavy load?
• Storage: Did the pack adequately hold all your gear?
• Accessibility: How easy was it to access all your gear in the field? 
• Value: Is it worth the money?

I then compared their testing sheets against one another to determine where a comfortable fit was a commonality across all three testers, or where a difference in physical stature determined whether their experience was positive or negative. I also looked at how their different approaches to packing a backpacking kit affected whether a pack’s organizational system was a hindrance or help. 

What About Plus Size Packs?

It’s worth noting that, in recent years, several brands, including Gregory and Osprey , have expanded their backpacking backpack collections to include plus size fits. While we did not include these backpacking backpacks in this series, they are an excellent place to start for anyone whose measurements are not included in the existing size ranges of other backpacking backpacks. 

The Best Ultralight Backpacks 

I also included our top pick from Outdoor Life ’s test of the best ultralight backpacks , which was conducted along a section of the Oregon Coast Trail in April. There were five testers, including Diana Helmuth, with a range of experience from sub 500-hundred miles worth of backpacking to over 10,000 miles.

Meet Our Testers

Rebecca ross.

Rebecca grew up homeschooled in a small town of 180 people in Central California. At age 15, she moved to Portland and has been in the Pacific Northwest for over 20 years.

She has worked as a Race to Alaska photojournalist, stayed with a Berber family in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, taught reproductive health and family planning to rural communities in Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains, and has summited mountains in both the Republic of Georgia and her tallest peak, Pico de Orizaba, in Mexico, at 18,500 feet.

• Torso length: 16 inches
• Hip width: 32 inches
• Typically carries between 28 and 33 pounds

In her own words: “I’m 5 feet, 2 inches, with a short torso. I wear a size 2 or 4, but routinely check the children’s department when shopping for outerwear.”

Ross’s Report Card

Diana helmuth.

Diana started backpacking with her mother at an early age, and spent part of a year of secondary school focused on backpacking and wilderness education. Since then, she has hiked extensively throughout the western United States, Europe, and Chile. Her first book, How to Suffer Outside: A Beginner’s Guide to Hiking and Backpacking , won the National Outdoor Book Award for Best Instructional.

• Torso length: 18.5 inches
• Hip width: 43 inches
• Typically carries between 30 and 35 pounds

In her own words: “I’m a larger-than-average woman—5 feet, 10 inches and a dress size 14. I tend to go straight for men’s gear, as a rule.”

Helmuth’s Report Card

Jason boyle.

Jason’s love for the outdoors started over 30 years ago when he learned to backpack on the Pinhoti trail in Alabama as part of Scouts BSA. Since then, he has backpacked and camped all over the United States, including section hiking the Appalachian Trail, summiting Mt. Rainier (Tahoma) and Mt. Baker in Washington State, and hunting and fishing in Southeast Alaska. He currently calls Virginia home, and is in the process of hiking every trail in Shenandoah National Park.

• Torso length: 17.5 inches 
• Hip width: 36 inches
• Typically carries between 35 and 40 pounds

In his own words: “I am 5 feet, 6 inches with a dad bod and massive calves.”

Boyle’s Report Card

Best backpacking backpacks: reviews & recommendations, best overall: mystery ranch bridger, key features.

• Capacity: 63 liters
• Weight: 5.5 pounds
• Unisex Torso Fit: 15 to 24 inches
• Women’s Torso Fit: 14 to 22 inches
• Pockets: Removable top lid pocket with inner mesh pocket, two side stretch pockets, front pocket (not mesh) with two inner mesh pockets, two hip belt zip pockets, two shoulder strap pockets
• Adjustment Points: Attached hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, adjustable back panel, two sternum straps
• Comfortable up to 50 pounds (as reported by the testers)
• Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
• Comfortable across a wide range of body types
• Pockets and entry points helped keep testers organized
• Expensive ($375 for the 65 liter)

Before the testers took the Mystery Ranch Bridger out into the field, I was starting to get pessimistic. We had already tested four other packs, and no backpack had comfortably fit all three testers’ different body types. Was there even such a thing as a “best overall backpacking backpack”? 

The Mystery Ranch Bridger 65 broke the spell. The testers, who all had the unisex version of this pack, were effusive in their praise, which ranged from “really comfortable” (Ross) to “insanely comfortable” (Helmuth). Similarly, Boyle headed out with a pack that weighed just over 40 pounds and reported that he thought it would be comfortable up to 50 pounds. 

Part of this is just that the Mystery Ranch Bridger was more padded than anything else we looked at. The hip belt is plush, the shoulder straps wide and flexible and padded. But what really won the testers over was that all the adjustment points just worked.

Helmuth noted that part of her positive experience was thanks to the Mystery Ranch video that shows how to wear their packs. “It was different than how I had been taught to wear other internal frame backpacks, and I was glad they had this info,” she says. The Mystery Ranch Bridger received the highest marks for fit across the board of anything we tested.

But it wasn’t just the fit that impressed the testers: They also liked the Mystery Ranch Bridger’s unique take on organization. Rather than relying on an external mesh pocket to store odds and ends, there is a more robust front compartment that zips all the way down, revealing internal mesh pockets that will negate the need for separate stuff sacks for parts of your kit, like toiletries or cooking gear. Similarly, the main compartment of the backpacking backpack could be entered through the top, bottom zip, or by unzipping the front panel in a U shape. Inside were two more side mesh pockets for organization. Even more appealing to the tidy backpackers will be the Velcro straps that tie up the loose ends of webbing after your pack is fully adjusted. 

There were a few dings. Boyle struggled to fit his sleeping bag into the bottom compartment, and the testers that stored their Nalgenes in the side pockets noted that they weren’t deep enough to hold them securely. Helmuth also reported that both of the trekking pole attachments on her pack broke during testing.

Read the full Mystery Ranch Bridger 65 review to learn more. 

Best for Men: Deuter Aircontact Core

• Capacity: 60 liters (can expand to 70 liters)
• Weight: 5.1 pounds (4.7 pounds for the women’s fit)
• Unisex Torso Fit: 16.5 to 24.5 inches
• Pockets: Two top lid pockets, two side stretch pockets, front mesh pocket, two hip belt zip pockets
• Adjustment Points: Attached hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, adjustable back panel, sternum strap
• Comfortable up to 45 pounds (as reported by the testers)
• Warranty: Lifetime warranty
• Has every adjustment point and pocket you expect from a backpacking backpack
• A great match for more typically masculine builds
• Can be difficult for women to balance
• Some durability issues with the mesh

Boyle was effusive in his praise of the Deuter Aircontact Core. He noted several times on his testing sheet that the pack fit amazingly well and that it was the most comfortable pack in the test series. Notably, it supported the typically heavy loads he carries into the Appalachians, and was simple to adjust to his frame using the various adjustment points, including the Variglide back panel adjustment. Boyle also liked that he could move the compression straps around, which made it easier to change up his load when he was out guiding clients through Shenandoah National Park. He noted disappointment that the Deuter Aircontact Core did not include an integrated rain cover (which comes with other Deuter backpacks), and that the mesh sections were slightly fragile if rubbed against an abrasive surface, like a rock wall. But these, for him, were small points. “No matter how much weight I was carrying, I never really felt it,” he says. “The pack fit so well, I could almost forget it was there.”

This turned out to be at odds with both Helmuth’s and Ross’s experience. While Helmuth was out on an overnight to the Carbon River in Mount Rainier National Park, she found that when the load lifters were loose, the weight of the pack settled on her hips, but when she cranked them down to help move the weight to her shoulders, the top of the pack would hit the top of her head. Ross reported that her smaller physical stature made this one-size-fits-all backpack even more of a no-go. “The internal frame of the backpack hit the back of my head at such an uncomfortable spot that I turned my overnight backpacking trip into a day hike,” she says. Ross also found that the weight in the pack kept unbalancing while she was out testing, so that the pack repeatedly tipped to one side.

Overall, the ergonomics of this backpack, including its hipbelt, seemed to pair significantly better with men’s more typically streamlined builds. (For this test, Boyle was sent the SL pack, which is considered the women’s fit.)

All three testers noted that the organization of this pack epitomized what they look for in the features of a backpack. A healthy sized sleeping bag compartment. A stretchy mesh back pocket. Two side pockets for water bottles and two hip belt pockets for snacks. A top lid that fits all their important items with room to spare. The top of the main compartment can also be pulled up to expand the pack from 60 liters to 70 liters. Anyone with a typically masculine build that prefers traditional-style backpacking backpacks would be well served by the Deuter Aircontact Core. 

Read the full Deuter Aircontact Core review to learn more.

Best for Women: Gregory Deva

• Capacity for a Medium: 65 liters (Baltoro); 60 liters (Deva)
• Weight: 4.9 pounds (Baltoro); 4.5 pounds (Deva)
• Baltoro Torso Fit: 16 to 21 inches
• Deva Torso Fit: 14 to 20 inches
• Pockets: Three top lid pockets, one side stretch pocket, one water bottle holder, front mesh pocket, two front zip pockets, two hip belt zip pockets
• Thoughtful design elements, including a dedicated water bottle pouch
• Contoured hip belt works well with typically feminine bodies
• Velcro back panel is easy to inadvertently create a lopsided profile
• Precurved hipbelt was uncomfortable for our male tester

If the Deuter Aircontact Core fit the lone male tester great, while leaving the two female testers struggling, the Gregory Baltoro and Deva were the opposite. Boyle tested the men’s version of this pack (the Baltoro), and reported that, despite being quite padded, the hipbelt felt tight against his hips. Part of this was that the curved shape was somewhat misaligned with his frame; at one point, leaving his phone inside the hipbelt pocket resulted in a bruise. 

Ross’s and Helmuth’s experience with the Gregory Deva (the women’s version of the same pack) was, fortunately, a different story. Despite initially struggling with the Velcro adjustment panel (lopsided shoulder straps resulted in pain in her left trapezoid), Helmuth felt that, overall, the pack fit her frame well. Ross had a similar experience with the fit of this backpack, giving it a 10 for fit and an 8 for comfort.  

But what really won them over, winning 10 points from each, was the Gregory Deva’s approach to storage and accessibility. Ross liked the three different compartments for the brain. “It allowed me to keep my smaller items organized,” she says. Ross also appreciated being able to easily access the main compartment without unbuckling the brain, as it saved her time when searching for a specific item. Both Ross and Helmuth also commented on how easily accessible their Nalgenes were while hiking, thanks to the dedicated side water bottle holder.

While neither Ross nor Helmuth had any particular difficulty fitting their shoulder season gear into the backpack, Boyle found that his larger gear kit was difficult to fit into the available pockets. “It’s the smallest packing, 65-liter pack I have used,” he says. 

Read the full Gregory Baltoro and Deva review to learn more.

Best for Small Frames: Kelty Coyote

• Capacity: 65 liters (unisex), 60 liters (women’s)
• Weight: 4 pounds, 10 ounces (unisex), 4 pounds, 6 ounces (women’s)
• Unisex Torso Fit: 15.5 to 21 inches
• Women’s Torso Fit: 14.5 to 18.5 inches
• Pockets: Top lid pocket, two side stretch pockets, two side zip pockets, front zip pocket, hip belt zip pocket, hip belt stretch pocket
• Adjustment points: Attached hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, adjustable back panel, sternum strap
• Comfortable up to 30 pounds (as reported by the testers)
• A great fit for shorter torsos
• Adjustable panel doesn’t provide enough support for longer torsos
• Can’t handle as much weight as other backpacks in our test

It would be hard to overstate how much our smallest tester, Ross, liked this backpack. She ranked it her favorite out of everything tested in the initial round, and still liked it after trying backpacks that cost three times as much. What made this pack incredibly comfortable for her was its fit. “It felt like it was designed for a short torso,” she says.

Like other backpacking backpacks we looked at, this pack uses Velcro to hold the adjustable back panel in place. But while the team thought the other backpacks with adjustable were designed for torso lengths in the middle of their stated range (or even on the longer side), the Kelty felt as if it was designed for the absolute shortest torso sizing. Unfortunately, that meant it was not a fit for our tallest tester, Helmuth, who noticed the backpack was pulling back against her shoulders uncomfortably as she hiked.

Read the full Kelty Coyote review to learn more.  

Best Ultralight: ULA Circuit

• Capacity: 68 liters
• Weight: 37.3 ounces (33.8 in Ultra)
• Available Torso Sizes: S to XL (15 to 24 inches)
• Available Hip Belt Sizes: XS to XXL (26 to 47 inches) 
• Pockets: Two hip belt pockets, two side pockets, one large back pocket
• Adjustment Points: Removable hip belt, customizable J- or S-shaped shoulder straps, load lifters, and sternum straps
• Comfortable up to 40 pounds
• Warranty: Lifetime
• Wide range of sizing options makes it easier to get the right fit
• Customizable if you want bottom straps, ice ax loops, etc.
• Limited pockets and storage options compared to more traditional backpacking backpacks

One thing that became clear during this testing process is that there is no such thing, really, as a one size fits all backpack. Again and again, backpacks that claimed to fit well across a range of torso sizes or hip widths really worked best for only one or two testers. 

That’s why if you are thinking about going lightweight or ultralight, you should start your journey with our top pick from our ultralight backpack test: the ULA Circuit. What the traditional backpackers on our ultralight testing team liked about the ULA Circuit was that it was intuitive to fit to their bodies based on their previous experience. It has all the usual adjustment points: hip belt, shoulder straps, load lifters, sternum straps, and they all worked in the same way (decidedly not the case for every backpack we looked at for that test). 

But whereas traditional backpacking backpacks typically use adjustable back panels to get a just-right fit, ULA has you customize your pack before you even hit the purchase button. There are four different dimensions for the torso length and six different dimensions for the hip belt lengths to choose from. That’s a major boon for backpackers who have struggled to find a backpacking backpack that fits both their torso and hip measurements. If you want to go really wild, you can also choose your exact pockets and features with a Custom Circuit . 

Of course, not all traditional backpackers will want to, or should, switch to an ultralight backpack—and that’s OK. During our ultralight backpack test, Patrice La Vigne, who has thru-hiked both the Appalachian Trail and the Te Arorara , found that the different approach to pockets and organization with the ULA Circuit (cavernous main compartment, no bottom entry, no top lid pocket, only one back mesh pocket) was so disruptive to her system for packing and organization that it negated any weight savings benefits. 

The Rest of the Field

One of the newest entrees into the world of backpacking backpacks is from acclaimed tent and sleeping bag manufacturer, Big Agnes. Our testers checked out their Parkview and Garnett packs , but came away with mixed feelings. While there were aspects of this pack that they thought were true innovations, including its approach to the back panel adjustment, generous side mesh pockets, and the trash can, its overall stiffness (even over multiple trips) made it one of the least comfortable packs we tested in this series. If you are thinking about going lightweight, consider instead our top ultralight pick, the ULA Circuit. 

The Six Moons Designs Swift X was another pack that was included in our test of the best ultralight backpacks that stood out from the pack for its comfort. This is in large part because it has more adjustment points than any pack in either our test of the best ultralight backpacks or the best backpacking backpacks. It had: hip belt straps, hip belt stabilizer straps, shoulder straps, back panel adjusters, load lifters, and two sternum straps. You can also choose to pair it with either traditional shoulder straps or the increasingly popular vest shoulder straps—I recommend the latter. Testers noted that while this pack is unusually difficult to adjust correctly the first time you put it on (the adjustment points for the vest shoulder straps were in particular difficult to get a feel for), that it hugs the body very comfortably once you do, without relying on the need for excessive padding. If you’ve tried a number of more traditional backpacking backpacks and just haven’t found the right fit for your body, this is absolutely worth a look. 

Things to Consider When Choosing a Backpacking Backpack

Backpacking backpack torso length.

In both our tests of the best backpacking backpacks and the best ultralight backpacks, the biggest determining factor as to whether a pack fit comfortably or not was the torso length. A pack with the correct torso length will keep the load balanced comfortably between your hips and shoulders. A backpack with a too-short torso will weigh down your shoulders excessively. A backpack with a too-long torso will leave you pulling on your load lifters until the top of the pack is hitting you in the head. Our testing further showed that if you are in between torso sizes for your backpacking backpack of choice that it’s better to size down than to size up. 

Despite their similarities in appearance, it’s clear that the best backpacking backpacks all have different ergonomics, and that they will fit different body types differently. This can make it exceedingly difficult to find advice, as one person’s best-case scenario backpack will leave another person bruised at the end of the day. Before committing to a pack, check what is allowed on the return policy, and then take it out for as long of a hike as you can, packed with your typical kit. This will give you a better idea as to whether or not it is a fit for your body than a simple in-store weighted test (although those are also useful) or getting lost in the myriad of opinions on the internet. 

Weight of Your Backpacking Backpack

There are essentially two schools of thought when it comes to backpacking backpacks. One is that lighter is always more comfortable. The other is that stripped-down backpacks lack the padding and support needed for a comfortable carry. Neither of these is exactly right or exactly wrong, but most backpackers will identify with one camp or the other and choose their backpack accordingly. In this review, we’ve focused on traditional backpacking backpacks that prioritize cushion over weight (if you are in the other camp, look at our story on the best ultralight backpacks ). However, even within this category there is substantial variation, with packs ranging from 3 pounds to upwards of 6 pounds. Consider your personal size and carrying capacity when making a final choice. 

Backpacking Backpack: Storage and Organization

The backpacking backpacks we looked at for this test were all feature heavy, but had surprisingly different approaches to organization. Some had cavernous sleeping bag compartments; some sleeping bag compartments were so small we had to get creative with what went in there. Some had extra pockets in places we didn’t expect (shoulder straps, hidden mesh pockets in the interior). And a few were missing pockets our testers thought were integral to how they packed their bags. If you are choosing a backpacking backpack for the first time, this detail is significantly less important than overall comfort—your packing strategy will ultimately evolve to match your pack. However, if you are upgrading your pack, think about what features are integral to your current systems and try to find a pack that incorporates those into its design. 

Read Next: The Best Bear Canisters of 2023

Yes, a 50-liter pack is enough for backpacking, although for longer treks you may need to be judicious about what you do and do not bring. 

The size backpack that you need for three days of backpacking will depend on the size of your gear, but most people can get away with a 50-liter or less. The biggest determining factor for most beginning backpackers is the size of their sleeping bag (which should be kept inside your pack, to protect it from the elements). If yours is a bulky synthetic bag, aim for a slightly larger backpack. If it’s a svelte high-fill power down model, you can go smaller. 

You typically cannot use a 60-liter pack as a carry-on. The exception to this is frameless or minimalist backpacking backpacks, as the longer frames on these can sometimes be compressed down far enough to squeak by. If you are looking for a backpacking backpack that can double as a carry-on, it’s better to go with the 45 liter or less size, and cross your fingers that the airline attendants turn a blind eye when you stroll down the air bridge.

Generally, you want to aim for a total weight, including food, water, gear, everything, of no more than 20 percent of your total body weight. However, the reality is that some packs carry heavier loads better than others. If you prefer to carry a heavy load when backpacking, refer to our testers’ take on the maximum carrying capacity for each backpack in the above story. 

Read Next: Best Travel Backpacks of 2023

Why Trust Outdoor Life?

Since 1898, OL has been a leading authority in testing and reviewing hunting gear, fishing tackle, guns and shooting equipment, and much more. We have more than a century-long history of evaluating products, and we’re now bringing that expertise to online reviews. Our editors are experienced outdoorsmen and women, and most importantly, we’re trained journalists. We prioritize field testing and objective data when reviewing products. We conduct interviews with gear manufacturers and engineers as well as outdoor experts so that our readers have an understanding of how and why a product works—or doesn’t.

Advertising does not influence our gear reviews and it never will. While we always focus our coverage on standout products—because we want our readers to be aware of the latest and greatest gear—we also cover the flaws and quirks of any given product.

Final Thoughts on the Best Backpacking Backpacks

Choosing a comfortable, well-fitting backpacking backpack is foundational to your experience in the backcountry. Our experienced testers reported back on how some of the most popular models on the market interacted with the ergonomics of their body types. In most cases, these varied significantly: One tester’s perfect pack would be a nightmare for someone else. When choosing a backpack, remember that your experience and comfort—not the wisdom of the crowd—is paramount. Here is our take on the best backpacking backpacks for different body types: 

Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

For minimalist overnights to extended treks, our top picks excel in carrying comfort, organization, and weight.

Switchback Travel ( Jason Hummel )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Gone are the days when backpacking consisted of strapping on a huge external frame and lumbering through the forest with an aching body. Trends in backpacks these days err towards minimalism and thoughtful, ergonomic design. From the lofty, moss-strewn trails of the PNW in the United States to the dusty, blistering heat of the African savannah, the Switchback Team shouldered countless backpacks over just as many miles through all sorts of terrain to narrow in on the list of 19 worthy models below. These are our favorite backpacking backpacks for 2024, from ultralight bags for minimalists and thru-hikers to comfort-oriented options for weekend warriors and extended trips. For background information, see our backpack comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Editor's note:  We updated this guide on May 14, 2024, to include information regarding our testing practices  and expand some of the sections in our buying advice. We also combed through the guide to ensure prices, colorways, and products were current at the time of publishing.  

Our Team's Backpacking Backpack Picks

• Best Overall Backpacking Backpack: Osprey Atmos AG 65 / Aura AG 65
• Best Budget Backpacking Backpack: REI Co-op Trailmade 60
• Best Ultralight Backpacking Backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55
• Our Favorite Pack for Hauling Heavy Loads: Gregory Baltoro 75 / Deva 70
• Best Balance of Comfort and Lightweight: Osprey Exos 58 / Eja 58
• Best Plus-Size Backpacking Backpack: Gregory Katmai 65  / Kalmia 60

Best Overall Backpacking Backpack

1. osprey atmos ag 65 ($340).

The Atmos AG (and women’s Aura AG) is our top backpacking backpack of the year, deftly balancing comfort, organization, and durability. The attention grabber is the “Anti-Gravity” suspended mesh backpanel, which replaces the protruding foam found on more traditional designs to maximize both ventilation and comfort. But that’s not all the Atmos has going for it: The pocket design is thoughtfully laid out with plenty of options to divvy up gear, the Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt offer an easily customizable fit, and the premium materials hold up well to rough treatment. Overall, the Atmos is an extremely well-rounded backpack that works great for anything from quick overnight trips to extended jaunts into the backcountry.

With a revamp in the spring of 2022, the most recent Atmos tacks on two side zips for more convenient access to the main compartment, a torso length adjustment, and an integrated rain cover. Osprey also modified the pack’s fabrics to prioritize sustainability (like a lot of gear manufacturers, they’ve moved to a PFC-free durable water repellent finish). Subsequently, the Atmos AG 65 also got a price bump, which surprisingly makes it even pricier than the souped-up Aether below. But you won’t find a better balance of weight, carrying comfort, and features for everything from quick overnight missions to week-long backpacking trips, once more earning the Atmos AG 65 a spot at the top of our list. It’s also worth mentioning Osprey's  Atmos AG LT 65 ($290; 4 lb. 1 oz.), which streamlines the design but still offers the same comfort and carrying capacity of the original pack... Read in-depth Atmos AG 65 review See the Men's Osprey Atmos AG 65   See the Women's Osprey Aura AG 65

Best Budget Backpacking Backpack

2. rei co-op trailmade 60 ($179).

For value seekers or those just dipping their toes into backpacking, REI’s in-house collection is a really nice place to start. The Trailmade 60 is far from the most premium pack we’ve tested—in fact, it carries the vibe of a 90s-era hauler—but it certainly gets the job done. We found the suspension to be relatively comfortable on a challenging overnight trip, and organization was good with a roomy main compartment, dedicated sleeping bag storage, and six external pockets. For just $179, the Trailmade 60 is an excellent pick for beginners or those who get out just a few times a year.

What do you give up by choosing REI’s entry-level pack over the pricier options on this list? In short, the fit and finish are what one would expect from a $179 pack—materials are obviously cheap, the shove-it pockets don’t stretch as well as mesh alternatives, and we expect the squishy foam on the hipbelt, shoulder straps, and backpanel to lose its soft feel fairly quickly. Additionally, the one-size-fits-most torso adjustment (two hipbelt sizes are offered that accommodate S to 4XL) results in a less tailored feel compared to packs that are made in multiple sizes. On the other hand, this adjustability makes this pack a great one to share. Summed up, if you’re a new or casual backpacker in the market for a no-frills pack, the REI Trailmade 60 gets our nod as the best budget design of the year. See the Men's REI Co-op Trailmade 60   See the Women's REI Co-op Trailmade 60

Best Ultralight Backpacking Backpack

3. hyperlite mountain gear southwest 55 ($379).

Gregory has earned a reputation for comfort over the years, and their flagship men’s Baltoro and women’s Deva packs carry on the tradition. These bags are intended to haul heavy loads with strong suspensions, firm but supportive padding, and excellent organization. With a fully mesh backpanel, the most recent version is the best-ventilated iteration yet, and the hip-hugging suspension and pivoting shoulder straps keep the pack stable when hiking over uneven terrain. We also appreciate the generous storage layout for shuttling multi-day loads, including nine exterior pockets, U-shaped front access to the main compartment, and massive hipbelt pockets (made even larger in the latest update) that easily swallow a large smartphone. 

We tested the revamped Baltoro 75 while trekking in Patagonia, and the pack stayed true to its intentions as one of the most comfortable and feature-rich designs on the market. Along with the changes outlined above, the latest version also includes a highly customizable hipbelt and shoulder straps (great for achieving a perfect fit), drops the built-in Sidekick daypack (not a big loss, in our eyes), and uses more recycled materials. But as before, the Baltoro’s biggest downside is its weight: The 75-liter model clocks in around 5 pounds, which is about twice the heft of the 70-liter Hyperlite Southwest. In short, if you aim to keep things light and simple on a backpacking trip, this probably isn’t the pack for you. But if you plan to carry 40 pounds or more, the Baltoro will shoulder the load better than most—and chances are you won’t notice the extra pound or two... Read in-depth review See the Men's Gregory Baltoro 75   See the Women's Gregory Deva 70

Best Balance of Comfort and Lightweight

5. osprey exos 58 ($260).

Osprey is a backpack powerhouse known for quality builds, excellent organization, and comfort, as seen in industry-leading designs like the Atmos/Aura above. First released over a decade ago, the Exos (and women’s Eja) was their original take on an ultralight pack and remains a popular pick in this category. At 2 pounds 13.4 ounces for the 58-liter version, it can’t compete with streamlined haulers like the Hyperlite Southwest above or Gossamer Gear Mariposa below (both of which check in just under 2 lb.), but the additional weight translates to a boost in organizational features, carrying comfort, and ventilation. And with a spring 2022 update, the most recent Exos tacks on a convenient torso-length adjustment and reintroduces hipbelt pockets to the design (surprisingly, these had been removed in the previous version).

If you’re accustomed to a traditional backpack but curious about dipping into the ultralight world, we think the Exos is one of the best places to start. With a robust suspension system and practical feature set, this pack isn't a true UL design, but it’s nevertheless significantly lighter and more streamlined than a pack like the Atmos above. And held up against the similarly intentioned Gregory Focal below, the Exos boasts a few more bells and whistles (including the adjustable torso length) and features a slightly more plush backpanel. You do trade a bit of durability compared to burly traditional haulers or pricier ultralight designs (which generally use Dyneema or tough Robic nylon), but we’ve been surprised with how well the Exos’ 100-denier body and base have held up. For an even more streamlined option from Osprey, check out the Exos Pro 55 ($290), which weighs just 2 pounds 1.2 ounces and is becoming a quick favorite among thru-hikers and minimalist backpacks willing to take a deeper dive into the UL space...  Read in-depth Exos 58 review See the Men's Osprey Exos 58   See the Women's Osprey Eja 58

Best Plus-Size Backpacking Backpack

6. gregory katmai 65 plus size ($310).

Up until very recently, it’s been difficult (if not impossible) to find backpacking gear in plus sizes, which has excluded many from enjoying the outdoors. Gregory was one of the first companies to right this wrong, offering their fully featured Katmai 65 (and women’s Kalmia 60) in two plus sizes. The Katmai 65 Plus Size features extended-length straps, a fully adjustable torso length and hipbelt, and places the hipbelt pockets right at the hips where they belong. Gregory states that the two Plus Size offerings accommodate those who typically fit 2X to 6X clothing, and you can read more about their sizing here .

We were happy to see that Gregory chose the Katmai to bring to their plus-size audience, as it’s one of the most comfortable, fully featured, and durable packs in their lineup. Its padded, rotating harness moves with your body over rocky and rooted trails, and the suspended mesh backpanel keeps air flowing on hot days. Top, side, and bottom access to the main compartment makes it easy to locate items inside, and a front zippered pocket with a mesh divider is a great place for odds and ends. And while Gregory specifies a 45-pound load limit, our tester found that the Katmai deftly distributed the weight of 50 pounds of gear. Finally, if you’re comparison shopping, it’s also worth checking out the Extended Fit versions of Osprey’s Aether and Ariel , which offer similar sizing and features... Read in-depth review   (straight-sized version) See the Men's Gregory Katmai 65 Plus   See the Women's Gregory Kalmia 60 Plus

Best of the Rest

7. granite gear blaze 60 ($300).

Replacing the well-loved Optic, Gregory’s Focal (and women’s-specific Facet) highlights the brand’s premium ethos in an ultralight package. The pack drops weight with stripped-down features and simple organization, but comfort remains a priority: The body-hugging hipbelt, lightweight aluminum frame, and full mesh backpanel offer significantly more support than the streamlined suspension systems typically found on minimalist packs. You’ll still want to make sure the rest of your gear is appropriately pared down—especially if you’re opting for the 48-liter version—but the good news is there’s no shortage of ultralight tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and other UL gear to choose from. 

The Focal goes head-to-head with Osprey’s Exos above, which is the long-standing favorite in this category. Both packs come in 48- and 58-liter versions (the Exos is also available in a 38L option) and check in around the same price (the Exos is $10 more for the 58L). But the Focal is lighter by a few ounces, carries just as well, and features a simpler design that’s a bit easier to pack. The potential hangup, however, is that the Gregory lacks any torso adjustability. This isn’t especially noteworthy compared to ultralight designs—packs like the Hyperlite Southwest also feature fixed torso lengths—but it’s an undeniable shortcoming compared to the Exos. Gripes aside, if the Focal fits (it’s available in three sizes), it’s an excellent option for weight-conscious backpackers looking for a step up from a true UL design... Read in-depth review See the Men's Gregory Focal 58   See the Women's Gregory Facet 55

9. ULA Equipment Circuit 68 ($300)

Utah-based ULA Equipment has gone from a relative unknown to a darling of the PCT and AT in only a few short years. Leading the charge is their 68-liter Circuit, which offers an excellent compromise of weight, durability, and functionality for the thru-hiking crowd and those who keep their loads under 30 pounds. The design is undeniably minimalist but retains good organization with a very large front mesh pocket, zippered hipbelt compartments, an internal secure stash, and generous side water bottle pockets. These pockets have been fitted with burly ULA 400 Robic nylon for added durability. We’ve taken the Circuit on multi-day treks in Patagonia and up 14ers in Colorado and have been impressed with how easy it is to load up, adjust, and even streamline as a day pack when needed.

Although the ULA Circuit doesn’t have that coveted Dyneema distinction, its 400-denier Robic nylon has proven to be very abrasion resistant and is actually less prone to punctures than the Hyperlite and Zpacks designs (in our experience, Dyneema has a greater tendency to form small holes in between the fibers). What’s more, with a carbon fiber suspension, aluminum stay, and rigid foam backpanel, the Circuit is fully capable of utilizing its generous 68-liter capacity. To top it off, the ULA is offered in an impressive range of sizes, and you can customize the torso length, hipbelt size, and shoulder strap style to meet your needs. If you’re willing to give up the water resistance, slight weight savings, and brand cachet of the Hyperlite, it’s likely you won’t be disappointed with the Circuit—and it’s a relatively good value at just $300. See the ULA Equipment Circuit 68

10. Gregory Paragon 58 ($260)

It doesn’t get much more premium than Gregory’s Baltoro above, but a strong case can be made for a more affordable and lightweight design like the Paragon. At 3 pounds 9 ounces and a reasonable $260, the Paragon 58 is a great option for smaller loads (it comes in 48, 58, and 68-liter versions) and those looking to save. You don’t get the same level of padding or organization as the Baltoro, but the pack offers easy fit adjustments, plenty of mesh along the backpanel to help you stay cool, and a quality feel overall with sturdy zippers and supportive foam. And the Paragon doesn’t skimp on useful extras either, with features like a rain cover, large mesh front pocket, and a bear canister-friendly wide shape.

With an all-rounder design that finds a nice middle ground between stripped-down UL models and heavy comfort-first haulers, the Paragon goes head-to-head with a pack like the Osprey Atmos above. But while the Gregory gets the clear edge in weight (it’s nearly a full pound lighter) and price (by $80), the Osprey is the better pack when it comes to comfort, exterior storage, and ventilation. Further, the Atmos has a higher-end feel and more durable construction with a thicker body fabric (210D x 500D vs. the Paragon’s 100D). One final note: It’s also worth checking out Gregory’s Zulu 65 ($270), which offers top-notch ventilation but (in our experience) comes up short in terms of carrying comfort... Read in-depth Paragon 58 review See the Men's Gregory Paragon 58   See the Women's Gregory Maven 55

11. REI Co-op Flash 55 ($199)

REI’s packs are reliably high on value but can be hit or miss in terms of outright performance. The ultralight Flash 55 falls in the former category, featuring a competitively light weight (on par with the Exos and Focal above) and a variety of thoughtful touches, including four large side pockets (great for taller items like a tent or backpacking chair) and a front dump pocket, multiple daisy-chain attachment points, and a convenient roll-top closure. The Flash is also hallmarked by a range of customizable features (REI calls them “Packmod” accessories): Depending on the trip, you can add or remove the compression straps, two hipbelt pockets, and a shoulder strap pocket to shave off up to 7 ounces.

The Flash 55 was updated in 2023, and the most significant improvements include more durable (and recycled) materials and a built-in torso adjustment. The new model comes in four sizes that vary in terms of length and hipbelt circumference, making it fairly accommodating for a range of body shapes and sizes. But while we’ve been very pleased with the Flash’s performance for two- to four-day trips, the aforementioned Exos and Focal do have more thoughtfully built harnesses, which translates to improved ventilation and greater comfort with a heavier load (REI lists the Flash’s weight limit at 15-30 lb. compared to the Osprey and Gregory’s 35 lb.). Their materials also feel like a step up: The Flash’s shoulder straps have a cheap (and noisy) fabric covering, and the front shove-it pocket isn’t as stretchy as we’d like. That said, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better deal among lightweight packs, making the Flash a wonderful option for weight- and budget-conscious backpackers...  Read in-depth review See the Men's REI Co-op Flash 55   See the Women's REI Co-op Flash 55

12. Osprey Aether 65 ($320)

The Atmos AG above is Osprey’s leading backpacking pack, but for heavy hauling and light mountaineering, the Aether offers even more in the way of comfort and features. Updated a couple years ago, the pack dropped the AntiGravity (AG) suspension system for an AirScape backpanel, which is less elaborate but still has breathable foam and mesh to help keep you cool. And you get all kinds of adjustability, including a rip-and-stick system that easily tailors the fit of the shoulder straps and hipbelt, along with ample compression straps and attachment points for ice axes, tent poles, and more. Last but not least, the large J-shaped zipper at the front provides easy access to the main compartment.

The primary downside of the Aether 65 is its weight, which squeezes in just under 5 pounds. On top of that, organization is middling: You only get five external pockets (seven if you’re counting water bottle holders), and the hipbelt pockets are oddly placed and difficult to reach. For the majority of backpackers, we think the Atmos is the more practical all-around design at around 6 ounces less, and the Gregory Baltoro 75 above gets you more capacity for around the same weight (albeit for $40 more). But in terms of premium haulers, the Aether has a lot to offer, and those lugging heavy loads will appreciate the durable, sturdy build. Keep in mind that Osprey also makes the beefed-up Aether Plus and stripped-down Aether Pro , which could be great alternatives depending on your needs... Read in-depth Aether 65 review See the Men's Osprey Aether 65   See the Women's Osprey Ariel 65

13. Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 ($315)

The Gossamer Gear Mariposa has long been a favorite of thru-hikers, and for good reason. What sets it apart is how few compromises there are with this 1-pound 15.5-ounce bag (ours is 2 lb. 3 oz. with a large frame and medium hipbelt). You get a total of seven external pockets—more than the Hyperlite or ULA above—which make it easy to distribute and organize your gear. And while brands like Hyperlite and Zpacks use Dyneema to cut weight, the Gossamer Gear’s tough Robic nylon (similar to the ULA’s but thinner) keeps cost in check and does a great job resisting punctures (downside: you’ll have to add your own waterproofing in the form of a pack cover or dry bags inside). Finally, Gossamer Gear offers great customization: the standard pack comes in three sizes, and you can order your hipbelt separately to nail that perfect fit.

Comfort-wise, we’ve found the Mariposa has sufficient padding and plenty of support right up to its 35-pound maximum rating. If we were to change one thing, it would be the backpanel: the removable foam padding is prone to bunching and is such an annoyance that we prefer to leave it behind. We’ve also found that the pack rides low and wide, while a model like the Southwest has a bit more of a torpedo shape—some folks might not like the look as much, but for those carrying a bear canister, it’s a really functional design. There’s no shortage of good competition in the ultralight pack market, but the Gossamer Gear is nevertheless a strong contender, especially for those who like to stay organized... Read in-depth review (previous version) See the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60

14. Arc’teryx Bora 65 ($320)

You can always count on Arc’teryx to deviate from the norm, and their Bora 65 is no exception. For starters, the Arc’teryx’s harness and suspension are about as techy as it gets in the backpack world, with features like a rotating track-mounted hipbelt, adjustment grid to customize shoulder strap placement, and lightweight framesheet that’s reminiscent of carbon fiber. The Bora has always been known for its load-carrying prowess (we used to wear a 95L version while guiding mountaineering and wilderness therapy expeditions), and the newest iteration carries the torch despite its more streamlined design. And with a sleek exterior and tough, water-resistant fabrics, it’s better primed for alpine environments than most packs here.

The Bora is similar to our top-ranked Osprey Atmos AG in terms of weight and capacity, but in our opinion it’s not quite as approachable of a backpack. You don’t get the same suspended mesh backpanel that the Osprey is known for, the front dump pocket isn’t stretchy, and both hipbelt pockets use stretch-mesh rather than a zipper closure. We also have mixed feelings about the rotating hipbelt, which can feel squirrely on off-camber terrain and pokes into our hips when carrying a full load. If you’re routinely mixing backpacking and mountaineering, the hardwearing Arc’teryx has its merit (and is $20 less to boot), but most backpackers will be better served with the more convenient and user-friendly Atmos... Read in-depth Bora 75 review See the Men's Arc'teryx Bora 65   See the Women's Arc'teryx Bora 60

15. Deuter Aircontact Core 65 + 10 ($250)

Germany-based Deuter has been pumping out quality packs since the early 1900s, and their current collection holds court with premium offerings from brands like Osprey and Gregory. The Aircontact Core is the brand’s all-rounder, prioritizing comfort and organization for multi-day backpacking trips. Similar to packs like the Osprey Aether and Gregory Baltoro, the Aircontact Core features a thoughtfully built suspension and harness, adjustable torso length, and no shortage of storage, including dual hipbelt and lid pockets and a handy J-shaped zipper on the front. We took the women’s Aircontact Core 60 + 10 SL backpacking in Washington’s Glacier Peak Wilderness, and were very pleased with its comfort and convenience throughout big days on the trail. 

The Deuter is a wonderful value for those who don’t want to fork over $300+ for a backpack, but it doesn’t quite measure up to the aforementioned Osprey and Gregory. The pack checks in at a similar weight as the heavy haulers, but its load limit maxes out at 44 pounds (compared to the competitors’ 55- to 60-lb. limits). Second, the Aircontact Core is only available in one size, which translates to a less tailored feel overall. But if you’re curious about trying something different than the standard fare, the Deuter is well deserving of a closer look, and will save you $70 to $110 in the process... Read in-depth review (women's version) See the Men's Deuter Aircontact Core   See the Women's Deuter Aircontact Core SL  

16. Granite Gear Crown3 60 ($240)

More than any other model, the 60-liter Crown has put Granite Gear solidly on the ultralight map. Now in its third iteration—fourth if you include the old Vapor Trail—the Crown3 is one of the most affordable yet versatile options available. The pack features a plethora of customizable features, including a variety of removable straps, top lid that doubles as a chest or fanny pack, and roll-top closure for securing loads of varying sizes. Unlike much of the competition, the hipbelt can be adjusted to your exact waist measurement with the Crown’s updated Re-Fit system. And to help you maximize all 60 liters of capacity, Granite Gear also offers the option of adding a lightweight aluminum stay to increase the pack’s load limit to 43 pounds (without the stay, the Crown3 maxes out at 35 lb.).

The updated Crown is the most comfortable yet, featuring a compression-molded PE frame sheet and molded foam backpanel. But after testing it on a recent three-day backpacking trip, we have our fair share of gripes. For one, the pack features a very short and squat build, which ends up feeling squirrely when loaded down (the lack of stabilizer straps connecting the hipbelt to the pack doesn’t help). Second, we found the Crown to be almost too featured—we removed a pile of straps (including front water bottle holders and a second sternum strap) before taking it into the field. And finally, it simply lacks the fit and finish of packs from companies like Osprey, Gregory, and Hyperlite, and Granite Gear does not use recycled fabrics or PFC-free DWR. But if you’re looking to save money without compromising on a customizable fit and feature set, the Crown3 is a great value pick... Read in-depth review (women's version) See the Men's Granite Gear Crown3 60   See the Women's Granite Gear Crown3 60

17. Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L ($399)

Weighing at least half a pound less than the next lightest pack on our list, the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra takes the ultralight crown. The 60-liter model we tested comes in at an amazing 1 pound 5.4 ounces, and you can tack on modular add-ons like shoulder and belt pockets or a water bottle holder to complete your setup. In terms of construction, the Arc Haul Ultra uses a similar water-resistant Dyneema build as the Hyperlite above but in an even more streamlined form (3.3 oz/sq yd vs. the Southwest’s 5.0 oz/sq yd). This does translate to less durability overall (we got a small puncture in the bottom of our pack after putting it down on a particularly rocky section of trail), but Dyneema is simple to patch and the drop in weight will be worth it for serious thru-hikers and ounce-counters.

The “Arc” in the Zpacks’ name comes from a unique tensioning system that pulls the middle of the bag away from the back, encouraging airflow and alleviating the need for a foam backpanel. Breathability is one of Dyneema’s shortcomings, so this is a helpful design for warm weather and those who work up a sweat. Combined with a carbon fiber frame, the pack has a solid structure and provides good support for loads up to about 30 pounds. However, the complex nature of the Arc Haul Ultra does give us durability concerns—especially compared to the simple Hyperlite. The pack’s abundant straps, buckles, stitching, and add-on components could all be points of failure over time. All in all, it may not be durable or comfortable enough for regular weekend backpackers, but if you treat it with care, the Arc Haul Ultra is an excellent option for serious hikers and minimalist trekkers. See the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L   See the Women's Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L

18. Mystery Ranch Glacier ($399)

Mystery Ranch is relatively new to the backpacking scene, but the brand can trace the roots of its founder, Dana Gleason, to the legendary Dana Designs packs of the 1990s. From the current lineup, we prefer the heavy-hauling Glacier, which is built to handle rough, expedition-level use and comes loaded with creative design touches. In particular, the floating lid is one of our favorites with its two massive pockets and easy conversion into a functional daypack. And we love the Glacier’s build quality overall—everything from the foam to the zippers has a premium, long-lasting feel.

One of the Glacier’s main competitors is the Osprey Aether above. Both packs offer excellent carrying comfort, durability, and most of the bells and whistles you could want in a deluxe hauler. However, two useful items missing on the Glacier are hipbelt pockets and a large mesh shove-it pocket on the back. The Aether also has better back ventilation, although it can't match the material quality or toughness of the Glacier. Finally, given its impressive hauling abilities, we’d like to see a larger-capacity version from Mystery Ranch. But if those nitpicks aren’t deal breakers for you, the Glacier is a wonderfully built pack that’s made to last. See the Men's Mystery Ranch Glacier   See the Women's Mystery Ranch Glacier

  19. REI Co-op Traverse 60 ($259)

A while ago, REI gave their large-capacity Traverse pack a complete revamp. The latest version has a number of thoughtful features, including a top lid that converts into a day pack (it disconnects from the main bag extremely quickly), large and easy-to-access zippered hipbelt pockets, and an included rain cover. REI’s Packmod compression straps and daisy chain system allow you to customize your external organization, and the pack also includes dedicated attachments for trekking poles and ice axes. Finally, the Traverse 60 drops 10 ounces off the previous 70-liter version but retains great durability, with burly 300-denier recycled ripstop nylon throughout.

But unfortunately, that’s all the praise we have for the Traverse, which feels like a step back from the previous generation. Despite REI’s move to sustainable, bluesign-approved materials, the pack has a surprisingly budget feel: there’s no front access to the main compartment (the older model had a large, J-shaped zipper), and the raised foam padding on the backpanel feels like a true throwback to packs of yesteryear. The result is less ventilation than more modern designs and compromised carrying comfort (unlike the Baltoro or Aether above, this is not the kind of pack you want to overload). Added up, the Traverse 60 is a fairly disappointing update to a much-loved pack, and for $259 we don’t think it’s worth the savings... Read in-depth review See the Men's REI Co-op Traverse 60   See the Women's REI Co-op Traverse 60

Backpacking Backpack Comparison Table

About our testing process.

From gear-intensive, technical approaches to months-long thru-hikes across the country, the Switchback Travel team clocked endless miles in countless different backpacks to narrow in on the streamlined selection of 19 standout models above. Former editor-in-chief John Ellings drew from his romps on local trails in the PNW and innumerable international backpacking trips to curate our initial selection of seven packs back in 2015. Senior Editor Chris Carter picked up the torch in 2024 and has been attending gear shows, bugging the pros, and putting numerous models to the test ever since to stay on top of current trends and the most groundbreaking designs out there. An alumnus of each of the Triple Crown trails in the United States (AT, PCT, and CDT), Chris is an avid long-distance backpacker who continues to trek and explore around the world. Rest assured, no stone is left unturned in the upkeep of this guide. 

We keep a variety of key factors in mind when analyzing the merit of a backpacking backpack. Durability, support, organizational features, and ventilation are all top considerations, and each pack has to stand out in one—or all—of these categories to warrant any real estate above. Finally, we know that the backpack competition is constantly evolving, which is why we've slotted this guide into an iterative update schedule to stay on top of shifts in the market and new innovations as they surface.   

Backpacking Backpack Buying Advice

Recommended capacity, backpack load range.

• Ultralight Backpacking Packs

Backpack Durability

Padding and support.

• Main Compartment Access
• Water Reservoir Compatibility

Ventilation

Water protection, backpack sizing and fit.

• Sustainability

Rules about how big of a pack you need are not hard and fast. Multiple factors come into play, such as how many nights your trips will be, what time(s) of year you go backpacking, and if you ever plan to tack on any additional activities (e.g., packrafting or mountaineering). One point should stand out, however: Make sure to match your pack's capacity to the type of gear you'll be bringing. Do you have dated or entry-level backpacking equipment that doesn't compress well, or do you like to bring along a few extras? Then make sure to get a correspondingly cavernous pack. Alternatively, if you've dialed in your kit with lightweight and modern gear, you'll have more flexibility in size options.  

The majority of backpackers take short trips—usually around one to three nights—and for those uses, a pack in the 50 to 70-liter range is most popular. With a design like the Osprey Atmos AG 50 / Aura AG 50 , you’ll need to keep your packed weight low, stick to the essentials, and be sure to use the aforementioned compressible gear. While at 60 liters and more, you have enough space to take on a few additional items—great for parents with kids in tow. Within each of the ranges we have listed below, you can follow those general guidelines: minimalist to bulky (or a lot of) gear.

Overnight and/or ultralight gear: 35 to 55 liters Long weekend (2-3 nights): 50 to 70 liters Extended trips (over 3 days): 60+ liters  

Looking beyond how much space your gear takes up in a pack, it’s also important to ballpark the total weight. Backpackers often refer to the weight of their gear (minus consumables) as their base weight: Base weights range from 8 or less pounds at the low end to over 20 pounds at the high end. Tack on food, water, and fuel, and you’re looking at anything between 15 and 50 pounds on your back—or more if you’re not careful. We’re big fans of doing whatever we can to keep our gear (and food) light, as this generally correlates to more enjoyment on the trail.  

Most manufacturers list a load limit or range for their packs—on our list, these vary from 15-30 pounds for the REI Co-op Flash 55 to 60 pounds for the Osprey Aether 65. There are a lot of factors that contribute to a pack’s load limit, including the materials and construction of its frame, suspension, and padding. If you don’t see a specified load limit, an easy reference point is the pack’s empty weight—as we'll touch on more below, a heavier pack is logically most often capable of hauling more weight, thanks to its beefy frame, tough fabrics, and thick padding. In our opinion, load limits are more of a command than a suggestion: It’s our experience that going over a pack’s specified load limit results in a noticeable drop in comfort.  

Backpack Weight

The backpacks on our list above range from 1 pound 5.4 ounces for the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L to 6 pounds 6 ounces for the Mystery Ranch Glacier 70. Backpack weight is a bit of a mixed bag: On one hand, a heavier pack will add multiple pounds to your back; on the other, these packs generally have robust suspension systems and harnesses that offer an increase in comfort and load distribution compared to more minimalist designs. We’ve found that packs roughly in the 2.5- to 4.5-pound range—such as the Osprey Atmos AG 65 (4 lb. 9.8 oz.) and Gregory Focal 55 (2 lb. 10.4 oz.)—strike a really nice balance of weight and performance for loads up to about 35 pounds. If you anticipate a heavier load, it’s worth considering a heavier pack.  

Ultralight Backpacking Packs Weight is so important to many backpackers that a whole category of backpack exists based on this spec alone. Ultralight packs cut roughly 2 to 3 pounds off the weight of standard models and feature barebones organization—most have a main compartment, one or two hipbelt pockets, and a few external dump pockets. Additionally, they utilize thin but ultra-premium materials (Dyneema and Robic nylon are common) and simple suspension systems that generally include only an aluminum stay and foam backpanel. As a result, ultralight backpacks do compromise on comfort, especially when your load heads north of 30 pounds. But for ounce-counters focused on minimizing weight, the difference between a traditional and UL pack can be significant. Just make sure you have the rest of your kit dialed in before charging into the backcountry with an ultralight model, as an overloaded pack can lead to long-term discomfort or pack failure mid-trip (for a deep dive into this category, see our article on the best ultralight backpacks ).  

Of course, the main downside to thicker fabric is added weight. As a result, many lightweight and ultralight backpacks sacrifice a bit of durability with relatively thin builds. To maintain the best of both worlds, premium UL backpacks will often feature Dyneema, which is known for its impressive strength-to-weight ratio (and is also very expensive). But while it's worth being aware of a pack's fabric weight and composition, thin fabrics shouldn't necessarily be a deterrent unless you're incredibly hard on your gear, love to bushwack, or wear a backpack for work (as in the case of guides or trail crew). We've been pleasantly surprised with the durability of packs like the Gregory Focal (100D & 210D) and Osprey Exos (100D & 400D), and consider them to be sufficiently durable for most users.  

All overnight packs feature foam padding in their shoulder straps and hipbelt (and sometimes backpanel), which can vary in terms of thickness and quality. The goal of the padding is to increase comfort, spread out the load, and isolate your body from the sharp contours of the pack or straps. Foam and the fabric that covers it do add ounces, so manufacturers are always trying to find the right balance of weight and comfort. In general, heavier packs offer more padding (and thus more comfort), while lighter and ultralight packs feature streamlined padding (and thus less comfort, especially with a heavy load).  

We prefer foam that errs towards firm support rather than being soft and compressible. Excessively soft padding might feel great when first trying on a pack, but it doesn’t offer the long-term support needed for hauling heavier loads. Packs like the Gregory Baltoro / Deva and Osprey Aether/Ariel are great examples of effective use of this type of high-quality, firm padding. On the other hand, many modern designs (like the Osprey Atmos or Exos) swap out some padding in lieu of suspended mesh, which achieves a similar effect with less weight (and more ventilation). We were at first skeptical of the suspended mesh design, but after many years of testing various iterations, we’re full converts. With loads under 40 pounds, these airy backpanels offer just as much comfort as the padded competition.  

Backpack Organizational Features

When you’re playing the part of a moving van, carrying all your possessions in one place, organization is of utmost importance. As expected, storage options increase with a pack’s weight. Ultralight packs often feature just one cavernous compartment and a number of external pockets, while luxury designs offer a dedicated sleeping bag compartment, multiple access points to the main compartment, a lid, and a few external zip pockets. That said, more isn’t always better: How much organization you need ultimately comes down to a matter of personal preference.  

Exterior Pockets In our comparison table above, we list the number of external pockets for each pack. Most designs feature at least five—three dump pockets and two hipbelt pockets—while many high-end packs tack on a few more. Hipbelt pockets are indispensable for quick access to items like lip balm, a phone, or Lifesavers (a great energy boost on the trail). We’ll almost always keep a layer or two in the front dump pocket, and side dump pockets are ideal for items like water bottles or trekking poles . Finally, most packs also feature a top lid with one or two zippered pockets—this is a great place to store small items like a headlamp or trail snacks, and can be removed for toting essentials around camp. But before you go pocket-crazy, just remember that sometimes, less is more: five to six pockets is just right for us, while nine can be a recipe for misplacing your gear.  

Main Compartment Access Nearly every backpacking pack out there will have an opening at the top that is secured in a cinch cord or roll-top manner, referred to as a top-loader. Additional access to the bottom or middle of the pack via a side zip(s) or U-shaped opening can be a big help, keeping you from having to shovel through a once-meticulously organized pack to find some elusive item. These extra zippers add a little weight, but are often worth it. In cases like the Gregory Baltoro/Deva or Osprey Aether / Ariel , the U-shaped opening is so wide that you can pack and remove items much like a travel suitcase.  

Water Reservoir (Bladder) Compatibility Water reservoirs have become our (and most hikers') preferred way of staying hydrated on the trail, thanks to their on-the-go convenience. As a result, the vast majority of backpacking backpacks offer a number of features to accommodate reservoirs. Look for either a dedicated sleeve or clip from which to hang the reservoir, in addition to an exit port for the tube and straps or clips to secure the tube to the shoulder strap. It is worth noting that you'll want to pack your hydration bladder first before loading the rest of your gear into your pack, so that it can hang freely along the length of the backpanel. But don't fret: If you're anything like us and forget about it until your pack is fully packed, you can always rest it on top of your gear. To keep it from sloshing, invert it first and suck all of the air out of the reservoir.  

Compression Straps Compression straps tighten a pack from front to back and pull the load close to your body, helping to keep you balanced on the trail. Make sure the pack you’re looking at has these side compression straps at both the top and bottom to aid in load stability and give them a good cinch each time you put your pack on. These straps are also useful for storing taller items (such as tent poles) along the side of your pack. When used for this purpose we especially like a system like REI's Packmod—seen on the Traverse 60 and Flash 55 packs—which allows you to move the straps to your preferred height via a series of daisy chains (or remove them altogether). And while some compression straps secure tightly with a simple plastic cinch, we prefer those with buckles for their ease of use, especially when attaching larger items like a sleeping pad.  

Backpanel and hipbelt ventilation is a biggie for some, especially if you tend to run warm or plan on hiking in the heat of the summer. But finding an internal framed pack that breathes well can be a challenge, primarily because the point of a pack is to hug and conform to your body, moving with you as you walk. Most packs have offsetting foam and mesh panels that do a passable job encouraging airflow, but you’ll likely still get sweat art on your back that traces where the foam panels contact your body. On the other hand, designs such as Osprey’s Anti-Gravity (seen on the Atmos/Aura) or Gregory’s FreeFloat (on the Focal / Facet , for example) feature a fully suspended mesh backpanel and hipbelt that cradle the body while still allowing for great airflow. For the most part, we love this design and recommend it for those who want to prioritize ventilation, but it does cut a bit into the main compartment’s capacity and won’t hold up to especially heavy loads.  

Many items that we store in our backpacks are vulnerable to moisture—including a camera, phone, and down sleeping bag—so we place a high priority on water protection. The good news is that most backpacks offer decent water resistance with hard-face nylon and a durable water repellant (DWR) coating, although expect sustained rainfall to penetrate the fabric. There are also a number of waterproof backpacks on the market, including those made with Dyneema. In fact, we’ve used the 100% Dyneema Hyperlite Windrider as a dry bag (see our in-depth review ) and it didn’t let us down.  

If you don’t have a waterproof backpack (chances are you won’t), it’s a good idea take a few extra precautions to make sure your gear stays dry. Some packs include a built-in waterproof cover that stows away inside the pack (the Gregory Baltoro/Deva, REI Traverse, and Gregory Paragon/Maven, for example). You can also purchase one separately— REI Co-op's Duck's Back Raincover gets the job done—but keep in mind that they aren’t foolproof and can be hard to trust in windy conditions.  

A final strategy is to protect items from the inside, either by lining the entire pack body with a waterproof bag or using an assortment of waterproof stuff sacks or dry bags. You can even make do with garbage bags in a pinch—when guiding in British Columbia’s wet Coast Mountains, we used a trash compactor bag to line our backpack and experienced zero leaks or issues. Regardless of the liner you choose, it will work best with backpacks that feature a cavernous main compartment, like what you get with many ultralight designs. 

Two of the most popular waterproof pack liners are Nylofume bags, such as  this one  sold by Garage Grown Gear, and polyethylene bags, such as  this one  from Gossamer Gear. Both are fantastic alternatives to trash bags or rain covers and can also serve as odor barriers when tied off securely at the top. For reference, one Nylofume liner kept a tester's gear safe and dry for an entire three-month thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. These things are relatively cheap, way stronger than they appear at first glance, and add negligible weight to your pack.  

One of the most important factors to enjoyment on the trail comes in sizing and fitting your pack correctly. Packs generally come in men’s and women’s versions (for a full look at the women's market, see our article on the best women's backpacking backpacks ) and are offered in one to three sizes. These sizes vary most in terms of torso and hip measurements and are most often differentiated by their torso length. Hipbelts are generally very adjustable, but if your hip measurement is not proportional to your torso, it might be a good idea to opt for a pack with a customizable hipbelt. And once you dial in your size, there is still a lot of potential for adjustment, both before you put your pack on and once it’s loaded. In most cases, you can tweak the torso length by a good margin, and the majority of packs allow you to adjust the height of the hipbelt too.  

Importantly, some brands have also started to offer their most popular backpacks in extended and plus sizes. Gregory led the charge with their men’s Katmai 65 and women’s Kalmia 60, and Osprey followed with their Aether and Ariel Extended Fit. These packs don’t just increase dimensions; rather, they’re thoughtfully built with a wider distance between shoulder straps, well-placed hipbelt pockets, and lots of room for adjustment throughout (read more about Osprey’s Extended Fit collection and Gregory’s Plus Sizing ). The options are still limited, but we look forward to seeing more plus-size backpacks in the not-so-distant future.  

Sustainability: Recycled Fabrics and PFC-Free DWR Coatings

Our impact on the environment has never been of greater concern, and it’s nice to see gear companies step it up with more sustainable practices. The use of recycled fabrics has grown substantially in the past few years, with companies like Osprey , Gregory, and Deuter prioritizing these materials. We're also seeing a lot more PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) finishes on backpacks, which eliminate the use of some—or at times, all—per- or polyfluorinated chemicals (these “forever chemicals” have been linked to a range of environmental and health issues). With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes (you can read more about Patagonia’s take on the issue here). All told, it’s an exciting time for sustainability, and we’re happy to see this reflected in the backpacking pack market. Back to Our Top Backpacking Pack Picks   Back to Our Backpacking Pack Comparison Table

Learn More About Outdoor Gear

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Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2024

Backpack Fit and Sizing Guide

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Osprey Eja 58 Backpack Review

Backpacking Checklist for 2023

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Home » Gear » Best Camping Backpacks

BEST Camping Backpacks – Expert Advice for Backpackers 2024

Welcome to my EPIC list of the  best camping backpacks  on the market right now!

Stepping away from the routine of everyday life and into the wilderness is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. We all go camping for different reasons. We want to be reminded of what’s out there, what we are truly a part of, and how easy it is to connect to each other without distraction.

To get the most out of your next camping experience however, you are going to need an awesome backpack. There is an infinity of backpacks out there… So where does one even start?

The type of backpack you will need will depend on your adventure goals. Do you want to sleep in the forest under the redwoods? How about on a snowy mountain in Pakistan? In the hot desert? Just for fun in your backyard? With 5 of your closest friends at a music festival?

Finding the perfect backpack does not have to be time-consuming or arduous. This review of the best camping backpacks was crafted with every type of backpacker in mind so that you can quickly and easily find the perfect backpack for your individual needs.

More camping and less scouring the internet – that is what we are about. Let’s dive right in and take a look at some good camping backpacks for your next trip …

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Quick Answer: These are the Best Camping Backpacks of 2024

How this article is set up, #1 osprey aether 70 – best overall camping backpack .

• #2 Granite Gear Crown3 60 – Best Camping Backpack for a Weekend Warrior

#3 Osprey Exos 58 – Best Camping Backpack for a Thru-Hiker

#4 osprey poco plus child carrier – best camping backpack for new parents, #5 deuter futura pro 34 sl – best women’s camping backpack, #6 osprey ace 50 – best camping backpack for a young adventurer, #7 dam 2-1 backpack cooler cb30 – best cooler backpack, #8 hyperlite mountain gear 2400 southwest – best ultralight camping backpack, #9 lowepro protactic 45 aw – best camping backpack for an adventure photographer, #10 patagonia terravia pack – best glamping backpack, #11 rei flash 22 – best side kick camping backpack, how and where we tested to find the top camping backpacks, faq about the best camping backpacks.

• #1 Osprey Aether 70  – Best Overall Camping Backpack
• #2 Granite Gear Crown3 60 – Best Camping Backpack for a Weekend Warrior
• #3 Osprey Exos 58 – Best Camping Backpack for a thru-hiker
• #4 Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier  – Best Camping Backpack for New Parents 
• #5 Deuter Futura Pro 34 SL  – Best Women’s Camping Backpack
• #6 Osprey Ace 50  – Best Camping Backpack for a Young Adventurer 
• #8 Lowepro ProTactic 45 AW – Best Camping Backpack for an Adventure Photographer
• #9 Patagonia Terravia Pack 22L  – Best Glamping Backpack 
• #10 REI Flash 22  – Best Side-Kick Camping Backpack 

Osprey Aether 70

• > Sustainable Design

Granite Gear Crown3 60

• > Roll-top, ultralight, weather-worthy design and adjustable hipbelt

Osprey Exos 58

• > Ultralight for long carries

Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier

• > Always carry on compliant

Deuter Futura Pro 34 SL

• > Perfect Carrier for your Precious Cargo

Osprey Ace 50 Pack

• > 4 in. of Adjustability to Grow as your Child Grows

DAM 2-IN-1 Backpack

• > 2-IN-1 Cooler Backpack

Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Pack

• > Waterproof, Rugged, and Light

Lowepro ProTactic 45 AW

• > Water repellant

Patagonia Terravia Pack

• > Extremely Comfortable

REI Flash 22

• > Ultimate Daypack for Basecamp Operations

Here I have laid out 10 different camping backpacks and the common camping scenarios you may find yourself in. Scroll through to identify with the scenarios to see which backpack would most likely benefit you. We selected from the best camping brands out there so you’ve got some quality options.

If you are a Renaissance man or woman (like Pope Pius), many of these options will work well. Feel free to let your imagination loose and learn about the key attributes of each bag to find the one that best fits your lifestyle and journey in the outdoors, after all, when you’re trying to figure out your camping and adventure travel packing list , it all starts with your backpack!

So, without any further delay, let’s take a look at the best camping bags out there in 2024!

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• Straps:  Fully Adjustable
• Weight:  5 lbs 3.7 oz
• Material:  1880D Recycled Nylon Canvas
• Sustainable Design
• Made from durable recycled materials
• Timeless look for a lifetime of adventure

Full disclosure, I’m the type of person who likes to make one excellent purchase over a minefield of small hit or misses. The first thought I had when holding this bag is that it feels like a lifetime companion. It’s made from recycled materials that are extremely durable and can withstand almost any environment. Coupled with the slim design, this backpack can make its way through sharp slot canyons, or overgrown bush in the forest.

Its size will accommodate all of your camping gear, and the smart compartment breakdown will help you keep everything nice and organized. The pack is complete with an adjustable harness system so it can be maneuvered to fit almost every possible body type.

Whether you set up basecamp 50ft from your car or 13,00ft in the air, the Archeon 70 will help you do it all. It’s made by one of the best outdoor brands , so you won’t be let down.

Our team rated this as their best camping backpack for a few different reasons, one of them being just how cool and neat this thing looks. But it’s not all about looks, they felt the technology in the back panel really made the difference when it came to staying comfortable and cool on long hikes. Other key features they loved included the separate sleeping back pocket and the zippered expanded opening which took the hassle out of having a top loader when it came to accessing their gear.

#2 Granite Gear Crown3 60  – Best Camping Backpack for a Weekend Warrior

• Weight: 2 lbs 9.3 oz
• Material:  210-denier high-tenacity nylon

Each weekend is an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of your day to day. With so many adventures out there waiting to be had, this Granite Gear Crown3 makes for a great hiking backpack no matter the occasion. You will be ready for it all.

It’s lightweight, fully adjustable and ready for the elements. With a 60L capacity it can easily accommodate a multi-day trip, and if you are out for a single night, then the compression straps will help you reel it in when you are following a minimalist path.

The team felt this was the best backpack for camping for weekend trips with the Dual-density shoulder harness and load-lifter straps really making it comfortable on the trails. The hip and sternum straps too added to the design of this bag that really does take the load off your back and shoulders well. They also like the fact that the brain is removable from the bag meaning it’s easy to slim things down.

• Weight: 2 lbs 13 oz
• Material:  100D High Tenacity Nylon
• AirSpeed Suspension
• Removeable lid

So, you are camping for multiple days, in multiple locations, huh? The Osprey Exos is a dream for a thru-hiker. I hauled this bad boy with me 1,800 miles across the New Zealand bush , and it proved to be a solid choice to carry all of my hiking gear.

It’s lightweight which is crucial when carrying a backpack for distance, and the Airspeed suspension system helps to evenly distribute the load so it feels weightless (or as weightless as can be when slogging offtrail and uphill!)

What stood out to me most about this pack was it’s comfort. The Cushioned ExoForm shoulder straps and hipbelt molds nicely on your body without rubbing or putting to much pressure anywhere.

The team just loved the design elements and features of this bag that just make it feel like it was actually made by people who hike. The angled water bottle pocket for example makes it easy to grab your bottle without having to take the pack off and the front stash pockets are ideal for throwing your waterproof jacket into without soaking everything else through. The AirSpeed Suspension system was also a winner when it came to comfort.

• Weight:  7 lbs 14 oz
• Material:  210D Nylon Diamond
• Extremely comfortable cockpit seat
• Sunshade for your young one
• Ample Storage

I know there are many legitimate excuses to stay at home with your offspring, but Osprey takes a few of them away with their Poco Child Carrier.

The pack is fully adjustable making it easy to share the load of your precious cargo with a partner, and the extra storage space leaves room for baby supplies and camping supplies alike.

The cockpit is designed to be both comfortable and safe. Your baby can enjoy a nap under the sunshade while you traverse mountain ridges. There is also a removable and washable drool pad. They’ve thought of it all, haven’t they?

The team reckon this bad boy is the best bag for camping for those will mini people in tow! They felt this bag really outdid the others on the market by providing a much better support system that also allows great ventilation for the back. They also felt it offered much better storage for your other gear too without becoming too heavy.

• Straps:  Self Adjusting Shoulder Straps
• Weight:  3 lbs 7 oz
• Material:  Dynajin 210-denier nylon/closed-cell foam
• Women’s Specific
• Removable Raincover
• Comes with a sweet accent flower

In the world of women’s specific items, there is a lot of fluff but not with backpacks. It was my job to outfit eager adventurers in backpacks and I have to say that the torso length, hip consideration, and shoulder width variations on these packs made many women very happy.

The Deuter Futura Pro 34 is a great first hiking backpack. The size is perfect for day hikes that require more than the basic essentials or an overnight trip with minimal camping gear. The women’s specific components help this pack fit like a glove. 

The ladies on the team rated this as one of their favourite backpacks for camping because they found the fit, in particular, to be perfect for their body shape. They loved the super comfortable shoulder and hip straps and were especially impressed by how they could be adjusted with padded inserts for a perfect fit. The separate zippered bottom compartment and the valuables pocket at the top also provided them with a good amount of organisational features too.

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• Straps:  4-6 inches of adjustability
• Weight:  2 lbs 15 oz
• Material:  210-denier nylon double-diamond ripstop
• Max comfort
• Adjustability to accomodate growth
• Leave No Trace principles written inside

Im a firm believer that kids need to be outside— a lot. They need to roll around in the grass, get dirt under their nails, and establish a connection to the natural world early on.

Osprey has created the Ace Kid’s Backpacking Series to get them out on the trail with you early. The series offers three different sizes depending on your child’s age, but each are equipped with adjustability to grow as your child grows.

The quality on these kids hiking backpacks is not compromised here, Osprey makes them with the same care as every product they produce.

The team loved this bag and felt where it really stood out was in the fact that it still had all the features they would expect from a full-sized bag whilst fitting kids and smaller folks perfectly. The shoulder and hip system in particular still had a range of technology including a frame and top-level ventilation meaning youngsters aren’t discouraged by dragging along an uncomfortable bag.

• Size: 30L (7.5L Cooler) / 50L (10.5L Cooler)
• Straps:  Adjustable
• Weight: 2.75lbs
• Material: Durable rPET upper material
• Dedicated cooler section separate from main pack
• Padded laptop section
• Can be used not only on hike but for your commute too

Have you ever finally reached the summit of a mountain, watched the sun set behind the most stunning landscape and thought… man, I wish I could crack open a cold one! Or, maybe you just wish that pasta salad that’s been sat in a sunbaked backpack for hours wasn’t a nasty tepid mess! We hear ya and “Dam” do we have the perfect solution!

This innovative backpack from Dam coolers is the ideal solution for those warm summer hikes. Coming in either a 50L or 30L model this pack not only has heaps of room for things like your camera, jackets, headtorch and snacks. But they also feature a dedicated cooler section at the bottom. How ‘cool’ is that! You get either 7.5L or 10L of cool storage, so ideal for a day trip

What’s even better is that this pack has a padded laptop section, protected shades holder, zippered phone and side pockets and cushioned hip belt. This means that for the weight it’s pretty comfy and it can easily double as a great commuter bag with the cooler being the perfect spot to keep your lunch cool.

The only downside to this bag is that it can be quite heavy compared to the others, especially if it’s loaded with cans! It’s more suited toward casual day hiking, and picnics on the beach after a coastal jaunt as well as being able to keep it on your back once Monday comes around!

The team loved the idea of this bag and felt it was ideal for short summer hikes where you just want to crack open a few tinnies after your trek. The bag is on the smaller side but they were still pretty impressed by how it manages to divide its space up well allowing for some snacks or drinks below and a jacket and a few items of clothing above.

• Extremely Durable
• Handcrafted

It’s extremely easy  and common to overpack on a camping trip , especially if it’s your first one. You might want to bring multiple outfit changes, the entire medicine cabinet, and your favorite hardcover novels to keep you company. However, there might be a time when you succumb to minimalism, and when that time comes, this hiking backpack will be ready for you.

This pack is great for an experienced hiker whose primary goal is to cut every spare ounce of weight to get a minimalist setup. It could be to travel farther, faster— or perhaps just to relieve extra stress on the knees. When saving every oz is the name of the game, Hyperlite Mountain Gear needs to be on your radar.

Oftentimes when a product goes ultralight, durability can come into question. Not here. This pack is constructed with tightly woven 150-denier Dynema to add the durability back in while keeping the pack weight minimal.

For those wanting to keep everything to a minimum, the team rated this as one of their top best bags for camping. They felt the lightweight construction didn’t compromise on shoulder comfort or padding and in fact due to the lighter weight, they rated it up there as one of their most comfortable bags ever. They also love the roll top fastening combined with the waterproof material which really did give them extra peace of mind when trekking.

• Weight:  3.08lbs
• Material:  2x durable and water repellant coating
• Water repellant
• Designed to be used on the move
• Meets carry-on standards for most airlines

This is the ultimate backpack for the adventure photographer. As an adventurous photographer myself, keeping camera gear safe AND accessible is one of my top priorities. I have to say that it is challenging to find a backpack that meets those standards while also offering space for camping equipment.

ALAS! The Atlas Lowepro pack is an answer to my prayers (yes I pray to God for backpacks). It is designed by photographers, for photographers and I have to say that they nailed it. The rear access camera compartment offers a home for equipment to stay safe and secure while being accessible when inspiration hits.

The photographers on our team were super impressed with this bag and felt it really hit the spot when it came to providing them with the perfect camera bag for hiking. The interior camera cube allowed them to keep all their gear organised and safe but crucially (and rarely for camping bags) accessible with ease. They also loved just how much extra space there was for all their camping gear and didn’t feel too compromised for the inclusion of the camera section.

Looking for a similar bag of the same size, have a look at the Arc’teryx Konseal Backpack .

• Weight:  1 lb 16.3 oz
• Material:  210-denier CORDURA ripstop nylon; lining: 200-denier polyester
• Extremely Comfortable
• Smart Pocket Design
• Durable water repellent (DWR) finish to shed moisture

This 22L hiking backpack from Patagonia is the ultimate day pack. I love it when scrambling on the trails, but also to help transport camping accessories and various hygiene camping essentials  from my apartment in the city to the wilderness. It’s a great companion to help set up a home away from home in the woods or on a beautiful mountain vista.

This pack is designed with ultra comfort in mind. It has padding on the shoulders and hip belt, and the back-panel is made from breathe-able mesh allowing airflow to keep you cool in case things heat up. Trust me, if you are sporting this stylist look… they certainly will.

The team love that there was a smaller option on the market still aimed squarely at hikers. For the minimalists or those going on shorter trips (or glamping!) it was perfect for keeping things light and fun. The awesome black on black exterior also looks the part too and the team were impressed by its sleek and compact design. They also enjoyed the massive front stash pocket for jackets and other accessories.

Looking for a Patagonia bag in particular? Check out our rundown of the best Patagonia backpacks .

• Weight: 14oz
• Material:  Nylon
• Light and Packable
• Back panel can be removed to be a sit pad
• Used outdoors but also great for city travel

This frameless hiking backpack is the perfect bag to have when you’ve setup camp and want to explore. Whether that’s climbing your friendly neighbourhood mountain, a trip to the river for water, or a mission to find the perfect place to read a book— this is my go-to bag.

The Flash 22 is also great for use when you are out of the woods as well. A bike commute, a trip to the grocery store, or a stroll on a local trail would all benefit from this side-kick tagging along.

The team felt this bag was a cool option for those wanting something no-frills that gets the job done and does it well. They also loved that it was versatile enough to use for day-to-day travel or just daily use back home too. They felt it was also super lightweight and also that the lid closure feature was perfect for adding some extra protection to their gear from the elements.

Looking for something similar with a bit more room? Have a gander at the Rei Flash 55 Backpack instead.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

How to Choose the Right Camping Backpack

Now that you’ve been introduced to several types of backpacks for different camping scenarios, how do you chose? What attributes are important to consider? Don’t worry, I’ve got you. Consider the following:

Weight should be a factor to consider. If you are trying to save every ounce for a thru-hike or to be kinder to your knees you can look for a backpack in the 2lb range.

The size and fit of the bag are also both extremely important. Some bags come in small, medium, large, or perhaps some version of xs/sm or med/lg. The size you need is dictated by the length of your spine from the top of your iliac crest to the C7 vertebra. I’ve seen 6’7″ guys be an extra small, and 5’4″ be a large. It’s a crazy world out there!

Perhaps the most important attribute to consider when looking for a camping backpack is the packs capacity. Capacity is measured in liters and this includes all of the free space in the main compartment as well as all of the outside pockets. Two questions to ask yourself to gauge how many liters your backpack should be are:

How long will you be out?

What gear do you plan on taking with you?

For a multi-night trip where you carry all of your camping supplies, a good starting place is 65L. If you have more experience and like to travel light you can decrease the capacity to 45L, but it truly all depends on the size of your gear ( backpacking tent, sleeping bag, etc).

If you don’t plan on hauling in all of your gear and are using the backpack for daytime hikes then the 20-30L capacity will likely be lovely for you.

To test these packs, we laid our paws on each of them and took them out for a test drive on several different camping trips in different locations around the world. To test them out we looked at these various metrics;

Packability

A backpack is designed to carry stuff! So as such, we tested each pack by literally shoving in our gear and seeing how well it fit! We looked at things like how well each bag facilitated efficient packing and maximised its space.

Not only was it important to check out well our gear went into these packs, but equally, we paid attention to how easily it was to retrieve our items too. It’s no good being able to fit all your camping equipment in your bags if it’s a nightmare to get it out when you need it.

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

Camping gear can get heavy quickly and these bags aren’t the smallest. So we gave extra points to those bags that reduced their weight from the offset. Backpacks that weigh a lot before they’ve even been packed are a no-no on our list!

Not only that but we also looked at how well each bag handled its weight when packed out too. Well-designed backpacks distribute weight evenly and comfortably across your frame. They also have comfortable shoulder straps and a waistband that takes the weight off your back!

As such, we awarded full marks for packs that minimise weight and maximum carry comfort.

Functionality

In order to test out how well these camping backpacks performed, well, we used them for that exact purpose. We packed them out with all the essentials and headed off into the backcountry for an adventure.

You might be taking these packs out into the wild far away from society, but you never know who you’ll bump into on the trails, right!? Some folks out there think looks don’t matter, but you might meet the love of your life whilst on a hike. So you’ve got to look good!! So, we added gave extra points to sexy backpacks!

Durability and Weatherproofing

When it comes to camping backpacks, they need to be both durable and weatherproof too. They’re going to be carrying important gear into the wilds and coming up against some pretty challenging conditions. So we expected a lot from these packs!

To test their waterproofing we got all scientific and poured a pint or two of water over each one. Leaky packs were banished from our list!

In terms of durability, we would have loved to have thrown each pack from a plane to check out how well it stood up to the challenge, but our budgets don’t quite reach that far! Instead, we inspected the build quality of each bag by looking at things like seam sewing, pressure points that often wear out quicker than others and the tractions of zips. We were also sure to use the bags over a few months too so we could get an idea of how each one performed over time.

Still have some questions about the best backpacks for camping? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Which is the most affordable camping backpack?

The Patagonia Terravia Pack 22L combines a relatively low price with great design and amazing durability. Another great budget option is the REI Flash 22 .

Are there any camping backpacks for women?

The torso length, hip consideration, and shoulder width variations make the Deuter Futura Pro 34 SL the best camping backpack for women.

Can you hike with a camping backpack?

You can definitely wear a camping backpack on a short to moderately-long hiking trip. Most camping backpacks are designed to carry heavy gear and sit comfortably over a long time.

What is the best waterproof camping backpacks?

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest is made form waterproof material and therefore our go-to for those rainy days.

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Final Thoughts on the Best Camping Backpacks

The goal is to get out there, you and your backpack. Survive and thrive. No matter your purpose, there is a backpack tailored to your specific needs. How cool is that?

If you are still wondering which pack is for you, keep in mind my top pick for camping backpacks—the Osprey Archeon . There are few scenarios that this backpack won’t thrive in, which is why we reckon it’s the best camping bag on the market.

You always return from a camping trip with more than what you started with. Memories of good times or perhaps a tale of something gone awry. No matter what, the rejuvenation that nature provides stays with you.

What is your essential camping backpack? Let me know in the comments below!

Aiden Freeborn

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• Tackle Boxes and Bags
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• Saltwater Fishing
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• New Fishing
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• Marine Electronics
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• Trailer Accessories
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• Water Sports
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• Big & Tall Clothing
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Adrienne So Gear Team

The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best Carry-On for Most People Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On Away Carry-On Read more

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Yeti Crossroads 35L Read more

Best Bag for a Lifetime Briggs & Riley Baseline CX Read more

Whew! You've made it all the way across the globe. But have your toothbrush, pajamas, and running shoes made it, too? If you're a frequent traveler, it's easy to obsess over the logistics of getting your stuff clean, organized, and in good working condition upon arrival. Paying for a decent travel bag and a few useful accessories means buying a little peace of mind, especially when a few yards of zippers and some nylon are the only barriers between your precious belongings and the belly of an airliner.

Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated April 2024: We reorganized this guide and added new picks, such as the Yeti Crossroads, Tom Bihn Aeronaut and Trinity, the Frame Carry-On Max, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, the Camelbak A.T.P. 20, the Calpak Luka Duffel, and the Rux 70. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Carry-On for Most People

Look around any airport—if you see flight attendants or pilots, they will probably be rolling around a Travelpro suitcase. We like Travelpros because you get a lot of bang for your buck. They're durable, light, and not too expensive.

For only a little over $100, the Maxlite 5 is one of the more affordable Travelpro suitcases, and at 5.4 pounds, it's very light! The exterior toiletry pocket is a nice touch for when you go through security and need to take out your liquids, and the zippers are also quite strong and don't tend to get stuck. The wheels also rolled nicely on both the spinner and roll-aboard versions. Reviewer Matt Jancer did note that the aluminum handle extensions did sometimes stick and the main grab handle on the bag is only single-stitched, which may cause durability issues farther down the line. However, he has seen no issues yet. This probably the best bag you can get in the $100 to $150 price range.

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

Away's business practices may have raised some eyebrows , but there's no denying that this company changed the travel market entirely. It has increased in price since we first tested it, but multiple WIRED staffers still use the classic Away hard-shell carry-on ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) as their travel suitcase.

Hard-shell suitcases tend to be heavier. There's also not as much give in the case, so you may find it hard to squeeze in more items than in a soft-shell bag, bu they look a lot sleeker than their soft-shell counterparts and protect fragile items better. The Away weighs 7.5 pounds, which is pretty standard for a hard-shell carry-on. When I tested it, I liked that it had multiple height settings and that the polycarbonate shell wiped clean and stayed mostly scuff-free (it helped that my tester was in the darker navy color). Away's suitcases also come with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, four spinner wheels capable of rotating 360 degrees, and an included laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff. The handle did feel a bit wobbly, though.

★ Alternatives: So many companies now offer a direct-to-consumer, stylish, hard-shell carry-on similar to the Away's. We've tried ones by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . Besides price, the differences are mostly negligible. I like July's aluminum bumpers, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. Both have survived multiple cross-country trips, being checked as baggage, and being ridden on by two small children with no damage.

Paravel also offers an Aviator carry-on ($395) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Product reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

Yeti's coolers and cups are famous for being bomb-proof. The company recently launched a luggage line that's similarly overbuilt. The Yeti Crossroads 35L is a 22-inch roller bag that's carry-on size for most major airlines. It weighs 7.7 pounds, on par with soft-sided competitors of the same size.

I recently spent a week dragging the Crossroads up and down grimy subway station escalators, thumping it across cobblestones, and scrunching it into overfull overhead bins during a trip to London, Paris, and Brussels. The blue 700D nylon on the front and sides looks just as fresh as it did out of the box while the molded polycarbonate shell on the back has a few well-earned battle scratches. The two extra-large fixed wheels are rolling as smoothly as ever and hopped up curbs so well that I grew to favor them over smaller spinner wheels. The Crossroads has a half-dozen well-placed pockets and sturdy zippers that didn't give me any anxiety even as I tugged them hard while smooshing down to fit souvenirs into a carry-on with 8 days of clothing. —Martin Cizmar

Best Bag for a Lifetime

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright.

The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

★ Alternatives: If you need an absolutely bomber-tough rolling suitcase and don't mind its 9.6-pound weight, the Pro Front-Access Carry ($799) will stand up to more abuse than most rolling bags, with its aluminum frame and 70-percent-recycled polycarbonate body. WIRED reviewer Chris Haslam says it's his favorite rolling bag in years. Jancer also likes Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on ($315) , which he calls one of the most high-end polycarbonate bags on the market.

Carlton Reid

Scott Gilbertson

Boone Ashworth

David Nield

Best Backpack

When I reviewed the Cotopaxi Allpa in 2018 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ), it had only recently launched. Now, a half-dozen years later, it is one of the most popular travel backpacks that I see online and in airports all over the world. It's a combination of a camping backpack, a suitcase, and a soft, frameless duffel. You can splay it open like a sandwich to pack it easily; access items through a side zip; put it on your backpack and secure its weight with a sternum strap; or squash or stomp it into any overhead compartment or corner of your car trunk. The use case for this bag is extremely specific—the same people who are bopping around Thailand for several weeks in one backpack are not the same people trying to look professional at a work conference. But it is sturdy and comfortable.

★ Alternative: I took the Ekster Packable Duffel ($250) on several weekend trips this spring, and found that it more than upheld its claims of being built for “smoother journeys, on and off the grid.” This travel bag converts from a backpack to a duffel, with two separate compartments that also splay open for easier packing. The 600-denier exterior and water-resistant zippers are so sturdy that when we ran out of space in the car, we lashed it to the roof rack with surf straps and drove for hours in the rain. It, and its contents, remained pristine.

Best Convertible Bag

Every serious traveler knows the name of Seattle-based Tom Bihn, manufacturer of bomber bags that will last you a lifetime. The Aeronaut 45 is the classic Tom Bihn convertible carry-on, which the size of the maximum allowable carryon bag on a plane.

You get everything from a Tom Bihn bag that you pay for. It’s made of incredibly sturdy 1050 denier ballistic nylon, with bombproof YKK zippers. It has both hidden backpack straps and an extremely comfortable cross-body strap. This is commerce director Martin Cizmar's bag, and he's tossed it around and lugged it down rough streets and through crowds where roller bags are a liability. He owns two and the first lasted for more than a decade. This is the bag that both he and I would use, if we didn't have to constantly test other bags.

Best Personal Item

Some airlines are not content with charging you extra for checking a bag and now charge you for overhead bin space . The Tom Bihn Trinity ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) addresses that problem by providing a space for you to pack everything you need while still fitting underneath the seat in front of you. As the name suggests, it has three main compartments and three ways to carry—either as a briefcase with padded grab handles, a backpack, or as a shoulder bag with two attachment points.

It has three main compartments which can be arranged to your liking; for example, on one of the side compartments, you can zip a water bottle holder into place or unzip it for more room. It wasn't quite as versatile as I expected; I found that I prefer a small duffel with one main compartment that I can organize as I like. However, it does fit under the seat in front of me, even with clothes, laptop, and four (four!) hardcover books that I somehow stuffed inside it.

Best Work Bag

I've been traveling a lot for work and for family reasons in the past few months, and the bag I prefer for my personal item is the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, which is the larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate as an everyday bag, but the large turns it into a versatile work/travel bag. It’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. There's a hidden separate compartment if you spill water on yourself, and it has sturdy feet so you can put it on an airplane bathroom counter and dig for your makeup without it falling over or getting the bottom of the bag too disgusting. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag.

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes , but we love Lo & Sons. The Catalina Supreme Tote ($338) is also great for weekend trips. Again, there's also a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes, or anything else you need to keep separate.

The Best Hiking Daypack

The Camelbak A.T.P. is so useful that I’m always startled to realize it only has a 20-liter capacity. I have it in the 100 percent recycled white color, which saves water and only emits half the greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the dying process. It’s a panel loader, which means you can unzip the top and see exactly where everything goes, like a duffel. This is convenient when packing for trips—I was able to fit clothes, a Dopp kit, and electronics for an overnight trip. (I know these types of zippers fail more often than top loaders, but it does make it easier to arrange and sort items near the bottom of the pack.)

I particularly like how narrow it is. It fits my back and goes under airplane seats that even my children’s backpacks can’t. The bottle pocket has a zipper that makes it expandable so it can fit a little coffee thermos or my giant Yeti water bottle . Exterior compression straps also help squeeze my clothes even smaller. This is a great backpack if you want something that looks sleek enough for a work bag but is durable enough to take on a weekend trip to Yosemite.

★ Alternative: I also love the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) . This 25-liter bag is the perfect combination work/adventure bag. The suspended 15-inch laptop pocket clips shut, and the rest of the pockets are thoughtfully placed. It’s extremely light (a little over a pound) and is made from 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric.

Best Duffel Bag

The Big Haul ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite duffel because it hits the right balance of robust build materials and pockets without being too heavy to lug around all day. The standout feature of the Big Haul series, which comes in 28-liter to 120-liter options, is the ability to easily reposition the carrying straps, which feature plastic fishhook-style ends that slip into fabric loops. You can connect one strap end-to-end or double up on two straps in an H pattern for more stability with heavy loads. Adding and removing the straps isn't super fast, but it's not difficult, either, and six low-profile loops seems less intrusive than six rattling plastic buckles.

Two small interior pockets and an exterior pocket keep small things organized, and its water-resistant fabric is thick and tough without being stiff. All the sewing around the grab handles feels very robust too. Padded backpack straps hide away under a padded pocket on the top of the bag. This means that when you sling the Big Haul over your shoulders to give your arms a rest, your back is against the relatively clean top of the duffel, rather than a wet, dirty bottom side that's been set down on the ground. The current iteration of the Big Haul is also made with recycled nylon. What's not to love? —Matt Jancer

★ Alternative: For slightly more money, the classic duffel in this category is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159) , which also comes in a variety of colorways and sizes. You can either carry it by the grab handles or with the shoulder straps, and it's made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. I (Adrienne) have had the 40-liter version for almost 15 years now and the laminate has yet to peel. It also fits as a carry-on on flights.

The Best Expedition Bag

If you like outdoor sports, you probably need a good expedition bag—that is, a huge, burly duffel that you can just throw all your pointy ice axes, trekking poles, or camp chairs into that you can take anywhere and everywhere. Reviewer Matt Jancer's expedition bag of choice is the Red Oxx PR5. He's used it for whitewater paddling trips and to lug mountain climbing equipment from coast to coast without a single frayed thread. Everything about Red Oxx is overbuilt. The zippers are huge, its thick pieces of nylon webbing are robustly sewn, and chunky metal rings hang the detachable carrying strap. All that said, it's not abominably heavy. At 3.4 pounds it's still lighter than many wheeled bags.

★ Alternative: If you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists; I also have a Mountain Hardware duffel ($180) and after 20 years, the coating has finally started to peel.

Best for Camping

We love everything from Rux; I'm currently testing the waterproof adventure tote ($150) and I use it for everything from my climbing gear, to picnic gear, to bringing my kids' roller skates and soccer balls to the park. I have also leaked an entire water bottle in it and it stayed contained and out of the bottom of my car.

But for camping (or any outdoor pursuit, really), what you need is a Rux storage system , which, as the artist and filmmaker Van Neistat puts it, will help you kit your shit . It holds its frame shape, which means you can stack and organize inside of it just like a box, but it folds down like a bag for easy storage once you're at your destination. It's also light and waterproof and comes with a wide array of accessories . This is an upgrade for everyone who currently sorts their camping, climbing, or snowboarding gear in a series of $5 plastic totes and stacks them in their trunk.

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

Perhaps you've seen those Instagram-friendly, shiny aluminum suitcases and wonder whether it's worth the investment. Aluminum is extremely durable and can be machined with precision. That means it will protect your belongings better, and you can close them with latches instead of zippers. Your suitcase will last longer and be more secure— zippers are pretty easy to break into —and generally have fewer points of failure.

In my opinion, the cost-benefit analysis generally weighs against them. Aluminum suitcases are usually heavier and won't flex as much if you have overpacking tendencies, and I find them painfully conspicuous. Any suitcase with a decent warranty policy will painlessly cover any repairs. If you must have one, we like Arlo Skye's the Frame. Arlo Skye was founded by alumni from Louis Vuitton and Tumi, and reviewer Matt Jancer says that everything about the Frame screams robust quality, from the leather grab handles to the combination-lock latches. It also comes with a removable battery bank and has a few more liters of carrying capacity than the similarly-sized Away. The main disadvantage is that the interior organization is a bit lacking.

★ Alternative: Do you want the benefits of an aluminum suitcase without the drawbacks? You might want to consider Monos's Hybrid Carry-On ($325) . You won't fool anyone into thinking you've shelled out for a 100 percent aluminum suitcase, but Jancer notes that it's only a pound or so heavier than the competition and the aluminum frame offered better protection than any 100 percent polycarbonate suitcase that he tried.

A Good Emergency Go Bag

To be clear, any bag here could be considered a go-bag—even a grocery bag works when you have to leave the house imminently. But reviewer Nena Farrell used Calpak's duffel for an emergency surgery, and she is kicking herself for not getting it sooner. It was big enough for everything from makeup bags and extra outfits to a massive book and Nintendo Switch, and was comfortable to carry thanks to the large straps.

The shoe compartment was big enough for sandals and slides, but not big enough for shoes with an ankle. It was also a great place to stash haphazard Ziplocs of emergency toiletries and medications. There are some side pockets inside too, plus an exterior side pocket and a pass-through panel to place it on top of your luggage. It was a great hospital companion, but Farrell can't wait to take the Luka somewhere a little more fun.

Other Bags We Like

Not every good product can snag a best-in-category title, but there are several more bags we've tested that get our thumbs-up.

Osprey Ozone 40L for $280 : At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It's also made from 400D recycled bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist above my head and has also been checked multiple times.

Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140 : This duffel weighs a scant 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily beefy (though plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventuring. There's an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps don't tuck away for storage—you have to unclip them—but might be the most well-padded, comfortable straps I've encountered on a duffel. Exterior daisy chains and an interior zippered pocket round out the impressive features list.

Land's End Waxed Canvas Duffel for $180 : Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it's tough to call a material that's been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don't have the old-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $149 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $160 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81 : Looking like a cross between a duffel and a handbag, the Weekender has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overfilled, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it onto a plane as a carry-on. She appreciates its durability and the many internal pockets for organization, though, and its rather long five-year warranty.

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $345 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On for $200 : This is a hard-side, four-wheeled spinner carry-on made from an outer shell of durable polypropylene. Standout features include an interior fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket for keeping damp items separated from the rest of your luggage.

Adidas Defender Duffel for $40 : If you're looking for an inexpensive duffel that'll handle some light-duty traveling, this is a good way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than that of other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But for taking on the train or tossing into a car trunk, it'll do the trick.

Bags We Don’t Like

Some bags just aren't worth the asking price, especially with so many good alternatives at all price points.

Peugeot Voyages Carry-On Spinner for $595 : What a price tag for a plastic-case suitcase. You can see where Peugeot tried to imbue the Voyages with some luxury, such as the metal riveting and built-in travel locks, but the case felt no more solid than a budget hard-sided bag, and the USB charging port felt cheap, like an outlet you'd find built into a seat in an airport terminal.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible International Carry-On for $469 : At 6 pounds, 2 ounces, this bag is a bit heavy. There's a zip-off 19-liter backpack that you can separate from the rest of the 37-liter bag, but when they're zipped together, the combined size doesn't meet carry-on restrictions.

Ebags CTS Carry-On Spinner for $200 : This one wasn't awful, but there are much better options for the money. Its hard plastic sides felt more brittle than the hard-sided plastic Away suitcases. The handle rattles a lot and it didn't roll quite as smoothly as other bags.

A Few Travel Accessories

Once you've got your bag, you'll want to pack it with a few more useful items:

Apple AirTag for $24 : If you have an iPhone, it's one of the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 keep everything inside your bags organized by allowing you to separate it into different cubes, so you won't ever have to hunt through seven pairs of socks to find your bathing suit again.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $75 : Calpak’s viral clear cases come in three sizes and a ton of colors for the edge trims. Reviewer Nena Farrell loved the small size for my gym bag and traveling with a smaller carry-on bag, while the medium was a great size for my daily makeup or larger suitcases.

Troubadour Buddy 2.0 Tech Case for $75 : You probably need a case to organize your spare charging cables and power banks. I've been testing this compact, waterproof, and recycled bag that fits neatly into my personal item.

UrPower Portable Steamer for $24 beats a travel iron because it's far lighter and you don't need to hunt down an ironing board at your hotel. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using UrPowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything. You just need to refill it often.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 is handy when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Use it to weigh your luggage and make sure it's within the weight limits. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

InCase MacBook Sleeves for $50 will keep your laptop from bearing the damage caused by airport security lines. Travel through an airport without a case and it's only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Check our guide to the Best MacBook Accessories for more.

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

Every airline sets its own dimensional requirements for carry-on baggage, so if you want to be safe, you should check your airline's requirements before packing. But broadly, they're split into two categories: domestic and international.

Domestic flights by US airlines (and a few others) have standardized on 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

International carry-on bag sizes tend to be about 21 inches tall and a bit narrower, but they're all over the place. It's tough, because many international airlines will measure your bags at the airport and reject anything even slightly bigger than the allowed size. If you fly outside the US a lot, you may as well buy a bag sized for international flights.

You'll also want to check each airline's weight limits. They vary wildly, but some international airlines restrict you to 15 or 20 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. For example, there are some East Asian airlines that limit carry-on bags to 11 pounds. Once you subtract 6 or more pounds for the bag, you're not left with much wiggle room to put stuff inside.

When to Remove Battery Banks

Battery banks, also known as power banks, are a travel must-have. Whether you're using a tablet to watch movies on your flight or relying on your phone to coordinate rideshares, hotel check-in, and handle your boarding passes, you've got to keep those devices charged and topped up. Many bags offer a removable battery bank that slides into a special pocket or notch of the suitcase.

For carry-on luggage on a flight in the US, you're allowed to bring a lithium-ion battery of 100 watt-hours or less. You don't need to remove it from the suitcase's pocket if you're storing your bag in the overhead bin.

Lithium-ion battery banks are not allowed in checked luggage. If you check your bag or have to gate-check it, make sure to remove the battery bank before you give your suitcase to the gate agent. Slip the battery bank into your purse, backpack, or pocket for the duration of the flight.

Brenda Stolyar

Eric Ravenscraft

Medea Giordano

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A Complete Beginners Guide to Packing for a Camping Trip

• By Oscar Hartzog

Oscar Hartzog

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

It happens often: First-time campers head into the wilderness with a tent and a sleeping bag , ready for a few relaxing days outside. And then, within a couple of hours, they realize they’ve severely under-packed. From kitchen supplies to warm sleeping gear to bug spray, there’s a lot to remember when packing for a camping trip. It can seem intimidating at first, but don’t worry: It’s totally manageable and gets exponentially easier with each trip.

Beginner Camping Gear Checklist

If you’re heading out on your first or second camping trip, we’re here to help. Below is a complete checklist of camping gear for beginners, including all the essentials for your tent , camp kitchen, and wardrobe. We’ve included links to our top pick for each item — all available from trusted brands with at least a 4/5-star average rating.

Campsite Gear

The most important part of your camping trip is, of course, the campsite. If you’re buying a tent , always air on the side of too large instead of too small, and be sure to pick one that’s easy to set up if you’re new to pitching a tent. As for your sleeping setup, find a sleeping bag that matches the lowest nighttime temperature in your destination. Summer sleeping bags are good for 30°F and higher, three-season bags are for 15°F to 30°F, and winter bags are for 15°F and colder. A sleeping pad and pillow are also a must, and camping chairs make a huge upgrade for mornings and evenings lounging by the fire.

Tent : Big Agnes Bunk House 6 Tent, $489.99

Sleeping Bag : The North Face Wawona Bed 20 Sleeping Bag, $78

Sleeping Pad : NEMO Quasar 3D Insulated Sleeping Pad, $119.99

Camping Pillow : NEMO Fillo Camping Pillow, $33.74

Lantern : Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 Lantern & USB Power Hub, $69.99

Camp chairs : Helinox Savanna Chair, $164.96

Natural Bug Spray : Murphy’s Naturals Insect Repellent Spray (2-pack), $19.98

Tools & Personal Gear

One easy way to be more prepared is to invest in a few basic tools, starting with a reliable multi-tool. Leatherman is really the only name in this category, so pick up one of those if you don’t already own one. You’ll also need a headlamp , a first-aid kit , and duct tape (this comes in handy shockingly often). Also, be sure to find out if there’s firewood available; if not, bring an axe to get your own.

Multi-Tool : Leatherman Wave+, $119.99

Headlamp : Black Diamond Astro 300 Headlamp, $19.95

Axe : Hults Bruk Almike All-Purpose Hatchet, $154

Duct Tape : The Original Duck Brand Duct Tape, $7.95

First-Aid Kit : First Aid Only All-Purpose First Aid Emergency Kit, $16.46

Camping Duffel : NEMO Double Haul 55L Convertible Duffel & Tote, $134.96

Food, Water & Cooking Gear

Kitchen supplies are sometimes neglected by beginner campers, and hungry campers are not happy ones. Be sure to pick up a portable stove or grill , as well as a pot and/or pan , a cooking knife , and serving utensils . Also, maybe most important is a large, reliable cooler .

Stove or Grill : Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 Stove, $209.99

Cooler : Yeti Roadie 60, $450

Pan/Pan : TOAKS Titanium Pot with Pan, $54.95

Utensils : UCO Utility Spork 3-in-1 Combo (4-pack), $10.99

Knife : Camp Chef Deluxe Knife Set, $69.99

Cups : Coleman 12oz Enamel Coffee Mug, $9.24

Water Filter : LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

Outdoor Apparel

As with most outdoor activities, layers are the name of the game when figuring out your camping wardrobe. Even if you’re camping in the summer, be sure to bring thermal underwear and a warm jacket, as well as regular outdoor clothing and shoes. Mornings and nights out in the wild are beautiful, but they’re also colder than most beginners realize.

Long-sleeve Tee: Men’s Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie, $74

Women’s Free Fly Women’s Bamboo Shade Hoodie II, $74

Hiking Shoes : On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Hiking Shoes, $189.99

Wool Socks : Darn Tough Critter Club Micro Crew Lightweight Socks, $24

Thermal Underwear : Men’s Smartwool Merino Baselayer Top, $115 / Bottoms, $90

Women’s Smartwool Merino Baselayer Top, $115 / Bottoms, $115

Warm Jacket : Men’s Patagonia Down Sweater, $279

Women’s Patagonia Down Sweater, $329

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The 9 best cooler bags of 2024.

Carry your beverages and picnic to the beach in cool styles.

The Best Cooler Bags

Getty Images

Keeping snacks and drinks cold when you're on a road trip, at the beach or car camping is essential. Depending on what you want to pack, where you're going to be and how much you need to take, there are different cooler bags to meet your needs.

The right cooler bag can save you money, keep the kids happy with fresh snacks and offer convenience. U.S. News researched online retailers, travel industry review sites and more to come up with this selection of the best cooler bags.

Best Overall: ICEMULE Classic Medium 15L

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best for Beach: Alameda Mesh Tote Beach Bag

Best insulation: arctic zone titan deep freeze cooler, best small: igloo retro square lunch bag, best wheeled: coleman chiller 42-can soft cooler with wheels, best backpack: everlasting comfort beach cooler backpack, best collapsible: clevermade tahoe collapsible cooler bag, best tote: creative green life jumbo insulated cooler bag, best durable: yeti hopper flip 18 soft cooler.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Courtesy of ICEMULE

Capacity: Up to 16 cans with ice or 24 cans with no ice

What sets it apart: This soft-sided cooler from ICEMULE is rugged, versatile, waterproof and collapsible. It's perfect for the beach, river, lake or pool since it floats. The compressible zipperless design makes it easy to pack for travel. You can sling it over your shoulder to leave your hands free to carry your beach or camping gear. Your food and drinks will stay cold for up to 24 hours with this cooler. The ICEMULE Classic comes in three other sizes and a range of bright colors.

Travelers appreciate: Many reviewers comment that the bag is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport.

Price: $84.95 or less

Courtesy of Alameda

Capacity: Up to 12 cans

What sets it apart: This two-in-one cooler bag by Alameda is perfect for the beach. It has a detachable insulated cooler section on the bottom to keep things cold and a mesh section on top that's perfect for towels, sunscreen and more. The mesh is made from environmentally friendly and sand-resistant nylon. This bag features six pockets and a zipper closure on top to keep items secure.

Travelers appreciate: Beachgoers praise this bag for keeping items cold and keeping sand out.

Price: $34 or less

Courtesy of Arctic Zone

Capacity: Size options range from 9 to 48 cans

What sets it apart: This totable hard-body cooler bag includes a SmartShelf to keep crushable items on top. It keeps beverages and snacks cold with Deep Freeze Performance Insulation and has a zipperless top that flips open so you can access items quickly and easily. The bag is easy to keep clean since the exterior is made from water- and stain-repellent material and the interior hard liner is removable.

Travelers appreciate: This Amazon's Choice product has a 4.6-star rating from more than 48,000 ratings. Product owners appreciate the zipperless lid since zippers can break, as well as the removable liner that is easy to clean.

Price: $62.99 or less for 30-can size

Courtesy of Igloo

Capacity: Up to 9 cans

What sets it apart: This cute, colorful and compact cooler is perfect for taking lunch or drinks on outings. It has a front zippered pocket to hold things like keys, a phone or sunscreen, as well as a lightweight insulated liner to keep snacks and drinks cold. The top handle and shoulder strap make it easily portable. This small cooler bag comes in a retro neon color combination or Care Bears design.

Travelers appreciate: The nostalgic Care Bears print is a hit with recent reviewers, as well as the fact that it's easy to wipe clean.

Price: $29.99 or less

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Courtesy of Coleman

Capacity: Up to 42 cans

What sets it apart: With durable wheels and a telescopic handle, this Coleman cooler can easily travel to and from your destination. It features leak-resistant welded seams, front and inside pockets for additional storage, and a hard plastic liner that can be removed for easy cleaning. Your goodies can stay cold for up to 12 or more hours, thanks to the TempLock insulation. This cooler is also eco-friendly with recycled exterior fabric. Coleman also has options in smaller sizes that don't have wheels, as well as a backpack style.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say it keeps items cold for many hours and the wheels are convenient, though some caution that the wheels don't do as well on sand or rough terrain.

Price: $64.99 or less

Courtesy of Everlasting Comfort

Capacity: Up to 54 cans and 4 pounds of ice

What sets it apart: For an easy-to-carry cooler with lots of room, this backpack cooler from Everlasting is a great option. Made from PVA and insulated foam, this bag will keep your food hot or cold for up to 24 hours. Stash napkins and utensils in the front zippered pocket and wine or water bottles in the side pockets. It features a leakproof design and heavy-duty bottom, plus padded, adjustable straps.

Travelers appreciate: The spacious storage and leakproof material were favorite features of customers.

Price: $49.99 or less

Courtesy of CleverMade

Capacity: Size options range from 24 to 50 cans

What sets it apart: Not only is this CleverMade cooler collapsible, but it also has top handles and shoulder straps for easy carrying. Its solid, sturdy base is designed to hold up to between 30 and 55 pounds (depending on the cooler size). It is made from recycled polyester with a durable wire frame. This cooler is lightweight and stores easily since it folds down.

Travelers appreciate: The features that reviewers praise the most are its anti-leak material, effectiveness at keeping things cool and collapsibility.

Price: $39.99 or less for 30-can size

Courtesy of Creative Green Life

Capacity: Up to 30 cans

What sets it apart: For a tote bag that keeps things cool, this bag by Creative Green Life fits the bill. Its extra-large capacity with zipper-close top and shoulder handles make it easy to bring plenty of snacks and drinks for your outing. It has a leak-resistant liner and machine-washable, stain-resistant fabric. The handles can be adjusted to carry food either horizontally or vertically. With the thermal foam insulation, your food can stay hot or cold for eight or more hours.

Travelers appreciate: Customers love that this bag keeps food consistently cold and is easy to store, making it great for the beach, the park or grocery shopping.

Price: $34.99 or less

Courtesy of YETI

Capacity: Up to 16 cans with ice or 30 cans with no ice

What sets it apart: The material of this sturdy YETI cooler is designed to protect the bag from punctures, UV rays, and mildew both inside and out. This rugged cooler is ready for any adventure with a high-performance zipper, a leakproof construction and closed-cell rubber foam insulation. If you want a smaller cooler than the 18, the cooler comes in sizes 8 and 12 as well. A Rambler Bottle Sling can be attached using the Hitchpoint Grid system. For keeping things on ice for one person, YETI also makes a lunch box and lunch bag .

Travelers appreciate: Shoppers who purchased this cooler bag recently appreciated the quality and size of the cooler, noting that the ice did not melt for hours. Some felt the zipper was difficult to open and close.

Price: $300 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. To ensure the contents of your cooler bag are kept properly cold, here are some tips for how to effectively use ice:

• Add the right type of ice: YETI suggests using a combination of block ice and cubed ice, since block ice melts more slowly and cubed ice cools items faster. YETI also makes a YETI ICE hard ice pack for even cooler temps.
• Layer the ice correctly: The ideal way to fill your cooler is to put ice on the bottom and the top with your food and drinks in between (as this Arctic Zone video demonstrates).
• Use the right amount of ice: Be sure not to overfill your cooler with ice, as the lid must be able to close tightly. The amount of ice compared to cooler contents may depend on your cooler and what works for you: Arctic Zone recommends a 50-50 ratio of ice and food, for example, while YETI suggests filling two-thirds of your cooler with ice.

In addition to getting the ice right, there are some other ways you can optimize your cooler's performance.

• Pre-chill the cooler bag: Starting with a cool bag is a great trick. The Igloo website recommends pre-chilling your bag overnight with a bag of ice inside to maximize ice retention.
• Add cold drinks: Adding drinks that are already cold will help with ice retention, according to ICEMULE. Frozen water bottles are a great option too.
• Keep the lid closed: Be sure to keep the lid shut (and locked, if that's an option) to keep the cold air in.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to cooler bags. She often uses a cooler bag for road trips, hikes and days at the beach. Kolberg used her experience as a frequent traveler and research expertise to curate this list of top cooler bags.

You might also be interested in:

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• The Best Beach Bags
• The Best Beach Wagons
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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
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• Trends + Deals We Love

50 Epic REI Memorial Day Sales We're Shopping — With Vuori, Patagonia, and More Up to 58% Off

The deals coincide with the brand’s annual Anniversary sale.

Travel + Leisure

It’s no secret that REI is one of our favorite retailers for travel gear and beyond. This is in part due to the impressive array of essentials they offer for every activity imaginable, but it’s also thanks to the major sales that they’ve been known to host throughout the year. Right now, the outdoor giant is putting on a Memorial Day weekend savings event that’s one of the biggest we’ve seen so far — and it’s running in tandem with their yearly anniversary sale, making the savings even more unforgettable.

With prices sitting as low as $12, you’re not going to want to miss out on the vast selection of camping and hiking gear, outdoor apparel , supportive shoes , and more. And to make your life easier, we’ve even parsed through the site to uncover the 50 best deals on brands like Patagonia , Teva , and even The North Face , so you don’t have to waste any time searching for the top markdowns — we’ve already found them.

Best Overall Deals

With REI’s Memorial Day markdowns overlapping with the retailer’s major anniversary sale, you can trust that this weekend’s savings are some of the best we’ve seen this year. And while outdoor gear has undeniably seen some of the most impressive price slashes (just look at the Alpine Mountain Gear Weekender Tent 6 which is a staggering 58 percent off through the weekend), even comfy shoes, apparel, and spacious luggage brands are getting in on the fun. In fact, right now the Allbirds SuperLight Men’s Wool Runner Sneakers are available for 50 percent off to outfit your upcoming travel days, while the ultra-cushioned The North Face Women’s Eminus Trail Running Shoes have also received a significant discount, bringing the price down to $64.

• The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller Bag , $168 (originally $280)
• Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll-top Pack , $64 (originally $129)
• Osprey Arcane Waist Pack , $35 (originally $55)
• REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set , $31 (originally $45)
• Allbirds SuperLight Men’s Wool Runner Sneakers , $60 (originally $120)
• The North Face Women’s Eminus Trail Running Shoes , $64 (originally $129)
• Black Diamond Splitter Tank Top , $35 (originally $70)
• Patagonia Hydropeak Scallop Board Shorts , $42 (originally $85)
• Alpine Mountain Gear Weekender Tent 6 , $83 (originally $200)
• Mountainsmith Antero +35 Sleeping Bag , $65 (originally $120)

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller Bag

Best travel bag and luggage deals.

Backpacks, duffel bags, and even wheeled suitcases are all on sale at REI right now, and no matter what’s on the agenda for your summer travel plans, we’re confident that there’s a bag tailor-made for you on the site. Outdoorsy shoppers won’t want to miss out on the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll-top Pack that’s now discounted to just $64, and paired with the $70 REI Co-op Big Haul 28 Recycled Duffel , you’ll be ready to take on the woods in style. As for rolling bags, the Eagle Creek Tarmac Xe 2-Wheel 67 L Wheeled Luggage has seen a notable 39 percent discount for the time being, while the The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller Bag is also on sale for more than $100 off.

• The North Face Recon Pack , $65 (originally $109)
• Cotopaxi Allpa 65L Roller Bag , $297 (originally $395)
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel Medium , $89 (originally $149)
• Eagle Creek Tarmac Xe 2-Wheel 67 L Wheeled Luggage , $192 (originally $319)
• Sherpani Meridian Carry-on Wheeled Luggage , $128 (originally $170)
• Thule Aion Carry-on Spinner Wheeled Luggage , $263 (originally $350)
• REI Co-op Big Haul 28 Recycled Duffel , $70 (originally $100)
• Gregory Quadro Pro 22” Hardcase Wheeled Luggage , $188 (originally $250)

The North Face Recon Pack

Best travel accessory deals.

No packing list is complete without a well-rounded array of travel accessories to choose from, and whether you’re going to be hiking, camping, or jet-setting around the globe, REI has no shortage of gear to help you plan and execute your ideal vacation. The Osprey Arcane Waist Pack is a spacious and hands-free solution to stowing your phone, wallet, and passport without carrying around a bulky bag, and travelers will be thrilled to find that it’s discounted to $35 to celebrate the unofficial start of summer. And if you’re tired of packing your neatly folded clothing into your suitcase only to be met with a wrinkled, unruly mess upon arriving at your destination, don’t forget to score the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set while it’s 31 percent off. Plus, the T+L editor-loved Thule Compression Packing Cube has also received the discount treatment, coming in at just $15.

• Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow , $38 (originally $50)
• InfinityLab InstantCharger 100W 4 USB , $56 (originally $80)
• Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag , $36 (originally $47)
• Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler , $30 (originally $40)
• Rei Co-op Travel Kit , $14 (originally $20)
• Sea to Summit TL Clear Zip Pouch , $25 (originally $33)
• Thule Compression Packing Cube , $15 (originally $20)
• REI Co-op Roadtripper Pod Small , $12 (originally $17)

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag

Best active footwear and hiking shoe deals.

The summertime calls for a wide range of footwear to be kept at the ready, and this weekend is the perfect opportunity to stock up on sandals, hiking boots, running sneakers, and anything else you may want to pack for your upcoming adventures. For days when you’re keeping active but want to give your feet the chance to breathe, you’ll be happy to have the Teva Women’s Original Universal Tie-dye Sandals on hand — especially considering they’re on sale for just $42. As for men’s sneakers, the breezy and supportive Allbirds SuperLight Men’s Wool Runner Sneakers have seen a significant 50 percent price slash, bringing them down to just $60, while the Keen Men’s Nxis Evo Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are sitting at a mere $104 for a limited time. 

• Salomon Sense Ride 5 Men’s Trail-running Shoes , $105 (originally $140)
• Altra Men’s Torin 6 Road Running Shoes , $104 (originally $160)
• Keen Men’s Nxis Evo Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots , $104 (originally $190)
• Freewaters Men’s Cloud9 Flip-flops , $44 (originally $68)
• Cascade Women’s Mid HT Hiking Boots , $88 (originally $160)
• Sanuk Women’s Islay St+ Stripe Flip-flops , $32 (originally $50)
• Adidas Women’s Ultraboost Light Road Running Shoes , $130 (originally $190)
• Teva Women’s Original Universal Tie-dye Sandals , $42 (originally $55)

Keen Men’s Nxis Evo Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Best women’s apparel deals.

Comfortable travel clothing is essential for enjoying your days on the go, and fortunately, REI is here to deliver unbeatable deals on your favorite active brands this weekend. The Vuori Vintage Ripstop Shorts are one of the most impressive price slashes on the site right now, coming in $34, while the relaxed-fitting Patagonia Seabrook Jumpsuit is a dream for staying cozy while traveling — and also on sale for 50 percent off in the perfect inky black shade. As for tanks, we’re eyeing the Black Diamond Splitter Tank Top while it’s sitting at $35. After all, it’ll keep you cool and stylish from hikes to walking tours and even longhaul flights.

• Vuori Vintage Ripstop Shorts , $34 (originally $68)
• Patagonia Seabrook Jumpsuit , $64 (originally $129)
• Brooks 3 Pocket Sports Bra , $27 (originally $55)
• The North Face Sunriser T-shirt , $25 (originally $50)

Patagonia Seabrook Jumpsuit

Best men’s apparel deals.

Shorts, lightweight pants, and breathable tee’s are integral to your summer packing list no matter where you’re headed, and this Memorial Day you won’t need to spend your entire travel budget to get them. If it’s time to swap out your old faded swimsuit for a newer option, don’t hesitate to snatch up the Patagonia Hydropeak Scallop Board Short while it’s 50 percent off and available in all sizes in the shade Bayou Blue. As for hiking apparel, the packable Smartwool Classic All-season Merino T-shirt has received a $20 discount, bringing the price down to $60, and even the prAna Stretch Zion Pants II are on sale for as little as $47 in the timeless Evergreen Camo. 

• prAna Stretch Zion Pants II , $47 (originally $95)
• Columbia Pfg Tamiami II Long-sleeve Shirt , $42 (originally $55)
• The North Face Lightstride Pants , $65 (originally $90)
• Smartwool Classic All-season Merino T-shirt , $60 (originally $80)

Patagonia Hydropeak Scallop Board Shorts

Best camping and hiking deals.

It’s probably a safe bet that your old camping and hiking gear selection is in need of an upgrade ahead of the upcoming season of adventures, so whatever holes you’re looking to fill in your packing list, you’ll be able to fill them at a fraction of the regular cost this weekend. In fact, the Mountainsmith Upland 4p Tent is a whopping 55 percent off for the long weekend and boasts ample space for up to four campers. Pad your outdoor oasis with the cushy Mountain Summit Gear Self-inflating 3.5 Camp Pad Extra Large that’s been marked down to $62, and finish off the interior with the Mountainsmith Antero +35 Sleeping Bag that’s also nearly half off right now. And as for your actual campsite, we’re sure you’ll be happy to get your hands on the packable Alps Mountaineering Iron Ridge Cook Station to transform mealtime while it’s half off.

• Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Pack , $112 (originally $230)
• Mountain Summit Gear Self-inflating 3.5 Camp Pad Extra Large , $62 (originally $125)
• Mountainsmith Upland 4p Tent , $90 (originally $200)
• Alps Mountaineering Iron Ridge Cook Station , $138 (originally $280)
• Komperdell Cross Stick Trekking Poles , $134 (originally $300)
• Rumpl Shearling Fleece Puffy Blanket , $102 (originally $175)
• Alps Mountaineering Westwind Rocker Chair , $123 (originally $250)
• Big Agnes Big Six Camping Chair , $108 (originally $200)

Alpine Mountain Gear Weekender Tent 6

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Boundary Kit

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11 Best Luggage Pieces for International Travel, Tested by Experts

These are the top-tested soft and hardside carry-ons, checked bags, duffels and more to take on your next adventure abroad.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Carry-On

Away the carry-on.

Best Checked

Briggs & riley 31-inch baseline extra large expandable spinner.

July Checked Luggage

Best for Frequent Travelers

Travelpro platinum elite softside expandable checked luggage.

Best Budget

Delsey paris helium dlx softside expandable luggage.

Best Rolling Duffel

L.l.bean adventure rolling duffle bag, 135l.

Best Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Best Weekender

Calpak luka duffel.

As you start planning your next trip abroad, looking into hotels, flights and tourist attractions, don't forget that the key to a smooth travel experience is a great piece of luggage. When you're traveling internationally, it's especially important to bring a suitcase that complies with airline restrictions, is comfortable to carry or roll throughout your journey and has plenty of room for all of your belongings and your souvenirs for the trip home.

This top-performing suitcase from our best overall luggage brand Samsonite has repeatedly stood out in the Textiles Lab's and our consumers' tests and is priced under $200 — an incredible value. The hardside carry-on is made of polypropylene and weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, which is one of the lightest bags we've tested, so it won't eat too much into the lower weight restrictions set by many international airlines.

I was impressed by how easy it was to lift and roll the bag around, even when filled with our standard packing load. Despite the lightweight design, this carry-on is spacious with a butterfly-opening, unfolding into two primary compartments for easy packing, and there's an additional one inch of expandable storage with the pull of a zipper.

During our Lab evaluations, we liked how easy it was to pull the bag through our luggage obstacle course. While some testers said the telescopic handle felt a bit loose, the suitcase earned high scores for maneuverability, with testers sharing feedback including "very smooth rolling" and "the wheels moved really well." The material was more prone to scratching than some others we evaluated, but the suitcase proved to be durable overall in our drop tests, resisting major damage.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

With more than 34,000 five-star ratings, t his best-selling suitcase from Amazon Basics is loved by both real users and our consumer testers who say it's worth every penny. Made of lightweight ABS plastic, the hardside suitcase isn't quite as durable as those made of polycarbonate, but the material helps to keep the cost low — under $100 — so I recommend it for someone shopping on a budget.

During our Textiles Lab evaluations for durability, there were some noticeable markings in our scratch tests, but we were impressed by how well the bag maintained its shape after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. Amazon reviewers who regularly use the suitcases say they hold up over time, as well.

When our consumer testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how smooth the wheels were, with one describing the bag as "very easy to move." We gave the carry-on high scores for packability, as we were able to pack our standard load of belongings (clothing, accessories and toiletries) for a short trip inside with room to spare. Plus, there are interior zippered mesh pockets for easy organization, and the bag expands up to one extra inch for additional packing space.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

One of the most popular suitcases on the market, Away's standard carry-on is definitely worth the hype . The bag is available in 11 colors, including on-trend options like green and red, along with neutral hues like gray and black.

Not only is the suitcase simple and stylish from the outside, it's also full of functional features inside to make packing for your next international trip a breeze. The bag unfolds into two separate primary compartments to fit all of your things: one fully zippered side and one with adjustable compression straps, and there are mesh pockets to stash smaller items.

Consumer testers and GH analysts alike love to travel with the Away carry-on, including one who shared, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin." Testers said the telescopic handle felt flimsier than others they tried, but they were impressed with the bag overall, saying that it was easy to maneuver and roll over different types of flooring, including wood, carpet and tile. And it looked great after our drop and scratch tests, showing no major signs of damage or dents.

Listed dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Briggs & Riley 31-inch Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

The innovative design details of this softside checked bag from Briggs & Riley help to simplify packing for extended trips abroad. The bag features a unique push-button expansion system unlike any other we've evaluated , which allows you to easily expand the bag, fill it with everything you'll need and then compress it back down to its standard size.

One tester who was impressed with the amount of space in the carry-on version of the bag shared, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." And this checked bag offers more than double the packing capacity. Other innovative features include a built-in trifold garment folder for formal attire and reinforced corners for added protection.

At 15.6 pounds, the suitcase does weigh more than other models we've evaluated, but it is made with a nylon material that resisted wear and tear when I tested it in our abrasion machine. It also earned top marks in our latest round of drop testing. Along with performing well for durability, the suitcase received high scores for maneuverability, with smooth wheels and a sturdy telescopic handle.

Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Weight: 15.6 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Rolling a bag through the airport has never been easier than it is with July's classic luggage , including this spacious checked suitcase and its popular carry-on bags . One GH analyst who took the checked bag on a vacation abroad said, "I've never used a suitcase with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand and was blown away by how effortless it was to roll the suitcases, even over carpet and concrete sidewalks.

The telescopic handle technically locks at 20 different heights to prevent it from falling down on its own, and most testers appreciated the slanted grip on the handle, sharing that it was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver with.

Made with a polycarbonate shell, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and the corners are reinforced with aluminum bumpers for an added level of protection. The bag held up well after being released repeatedly from our drop tester, but testers noted marks and scuffs on the surface after taking the bag on just one trip.

It boasts 80 liters of packing space and features one fully zippered compartment and one open compartment with a compression panel and Y-strap for security. Even more, it weighs just 8.3 pounds, which is similar to many of the carry-on sized bags we evaluate.

Listed dimensions: 26" x 18.75" x 11" | Weight: 8.3 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate with aluminum corners | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro luggage was created by a pilot who wanted to make bags specifically for other pilots and airline crewmembers who were always on the go. The result is a collection of highly durable, quality suitcases including the popular Platinum Elite medium checked suitcase.

Built to last, the luggage is made of heavyweight nylon material that performed well when I tested it for abrasion resistance. When I released the bag repeatedly from our drop tester, it showed no signs of damage or dents. Our testers also gave the suitcase high scores for ease of use and appreciated the sturdy feel of the telescopic handle. The suitcase does have a more traditional look, though, which some testers described as "old-fashioned," sharing that they wished it were sleeker.

Full of thoughtful and functional features, the suitcase makes packing and traveling a breeze. The bag can be unzipped to reveal one large packing compartment with compression panels that secure your belongings in place, a removable wet bag for toiletries, a large mesh zippered pocket in the lid for breathable storage and a built-in suiter to help keep more formal clothes in tip-top shape. To prevent the suitcase from tipping over when it's full, it's also designed with a unique tapered expansion system, so the bag is narrower at the top and broader at the bottom.

Listed dimensions: 25" x 18" x 11.25" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

While some softside luggage is bulky and pricey, this Helium DLX carry-on from Delsey is lightweight, as the name implies, and it's available for a great value. The polyester material isn't quite as durable or substantial as nylon styles we've tested, but the brand's polyester fabric has performed well overall in our abrasion tests without major wear.

Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials like your phone and ID, so you won't have to hold up the TSA line while scouring through your bag. While the bag unzips to expose only one main compartment for packing, it's equipped with a removable bi-fold organizer and expands by two inches for additional room. One tester said, "I love the pockets." Plus, the inner lining can be fully unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

I personally carry luggage from Delsey and love the smooth wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, and our testers who tried Delsey's luggage found the handle to be comfortable to grip and use. However, they said the bags were more difficult to maneuver through our obstacle course than others they tested.

Listed dimensions: 12" x 17.75" x 28" | Weight: 8.4 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

A rolling duffel like this one from L.L.Bean is ideal for longer adventures abroad or for overpackers like me. The duffel isn't as structured as standard suitcases, meaning you can compress it and slide it under your bed or in a closet if you're pressed for storage space — and on the other hand, you can really fill it to the brim when you're packing. Just be careful that you're not stuffing it too much because it can be easy to exceed an airline's weight restrictions.

One GH analyst who loves to travel with this bag said that it's one of her go-to picks for family vacations. With just two wheels, our analyst said it's a little more cumbersome to maneuver than a spinner suitcase, but you also have the option to carry the bag with the padded strap.

The bag has a wide opening for easy access to everything you need inside, and outer compression straps keep everything in place. Made of durable polyester material with a reinforced base, the duffel lasts for years and years without signs of wear, according to our analyst. Plus, it's water-resistant inside and out — perfect for inevitable leaks or wet weather. If you're looking for something smaller, the brand carries a variety of sizes to meet your travel needs.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 17.25" x 32.5" | Weight: 8.8 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 1 year

When we evaluated this bag in the Textiles Lab, we were amazed by just how much we could fit inside during our packing tests. Not only did it beat out other travel backpacks we tested, it also outperformed some of our carry-ons because of its spacious interior .

The backpack has a suitcase-style opening and fully unzips to expose a highly organized interior jam-packed with zippered mesh pockets for all of your belongings. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Made of recycled nylon and polyester, the bag is durable and water-resistant. When I tested it for abrasion resistance in the Lab, there were no visible signs of wear. Details like a sternum strap, waist belt and padded mesh provide comfort and support. With backpack straps that tuck neatly inside the back of the bag and carrying straps on all sides, you can easily grab it to lift into an overhead bin.

Some online reviewers wished it was equipped with a water bottle holder and said the zippers can be finicky, but we didn't have issues with them in the Lab.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10" | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Able to hold everything you need for a weekend getaway, this weekender from Calpak was the top performer in our Textiles Lab tests. Not only is the bag totally on-trend, thanks to the puffy padded design and fashionable color options, it's also full of functional features . One tester who used it as her personal item on a long trip said, "This bag fits everything I need and more!"

A GH analyst who used the bag added, "I appreciate the well-organized interior," which includes several zippered pockets and elastic storage. Outside, there's a separate shoe compartment, additional zippered pockets and a water bottle holder. Altogether, there are nine pockets, and the spacious bag aced our packing tests.

If you're pairing it with Calpak's popular luggage , this bag has a trolley sleeve that slides right over the telescopic handle of your suitcase. One tester noted that the stitching that secured the sleeve in place started unraveling a bit after just one use. The bag is made of a smooth polyester material that's comfortable to carry and water-resistant. A tester said, "It poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry."

Listed dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

This convertible duffel from Eagle Creek is the perfect adventure travel companion. The bag is durable, combining polyester and nylon for a water-resistant material that also held up well when tested for abrasion resistance . One GH analyst who travels with this duffel said that it still looks great after years of regular rough and tough use.

It's structured and maintains its shape for easy packing, but the duffel can be compressed to bring inside of your suitcase as an extra bag or for compact storage at home. According to our testers and GH analyst, the zippers have large pull tabs that are easy to use, and, according to the brand, they're covered in water-resistant strips for the ultimate protection in wet weather.

The duffel features a reinforced top handle and grab handles along the sides for carrying, and there are adjustable backpack straps for hands-free use that can be connected for an additional carrying strap or tucked inside the bag. Some online reviewers said the backpack straps are on the thinner side and weren't as comfortable as other traditional travel backpacks, but they appreciated the convenient option.

Listed dimensions: 11.5" x 23.25" x 11" | Weight: 2.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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Highly-rated luggage from Amazon for every type of trip

Choosing a piece of luggage or a travel bag can be a highly personal thing. The style you choose (duffel, spinner, backpack, etc.), the material it’s made out of and the color all come down to an individual’s preferences. Despite these preferences, everyone is looking for some thing durable, that can fit all of your  travel essentials  and make your journey easier.

Below, we’ve compiled 15 different pieces of luggage sold on Amazon. They have different features, but are all highly-rated and under $100. 

SKIP AHEAD Top-rated luggage and travel bags

Selected. Our top picks

select Planning a short weekend trip? These bags can keep your travel essentials in one place.

How we picked top-rated luggage and travel bags.

What you’ll need in your luggage will depend on the type of trip you’ll be taking and what you will be packing. That said, there are a few universal factors we looked for when selecting luggage and travel bags from Amazon.

• High ratings: We only considered bags that had a 4-star average from at least 1,000 reviews on Amazon. We paid special attention to those with even higher star averages and thousands of reviews.
• Size: Most of the bags on our list can be used as carry-ons, but we included a few larger options as well.
• Style: Some people prefer a duffel bag, while others may like a bag with wheels. To address all preferences, we included a variety of shapes and styles. 

Top-rated luggage and travel bags

We compiled highly-rated luggage and travel bags sold on Amazon in different styles — including rolling bags, duffel bags and backpacks — to help you find the right bag for your needs and preferences. 

Ibfun Weekender 3-Piece Set

With this set, you get a weekender bag, a crossbody purse and a toiletry bag. The bottom of the weekender bag unzips to reveal a compartment that can fit up to three pairs of shoes, according to the brand. The bag has a top handle but also comes with a longer shoulder strap. The toiletry bag has a wrist strap and the crossbody back has a small pocket sleeve on the inside to hold keys or your wallet. This set has a 4.5-star average from over 4,500 reviews and comes in 19 colors. 

Dimensions: 20.5 x 9.5 x 13 inches (weekender), 10 x 9 inches (crossbody), 7 x 4.5 inches (toiletry) | Material: Canvas and faux leather | Carry-On: Yes

Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

Made specifically to fit personal item dimensions, this bag will fit under the seat on most airlines, according to the brand. It is made from water-resistant nylon and has long, reinforced straps to fit over your shoulder, according to the brand. It has one large main compartment and a smaller zippered pocket on the outside and it can be folded up into a small square when not in use. This bag has a 4.4-star average from over 19,800 reviews on Amazon and it comes in over 20 colors. 

Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 6.3 inches | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Wonhox Large Travel Tote Bag

This bag is expandable — just unzip the bottom to add an extra four inches of length to the bag. Inside you’ll find a large main compartment, three smaller pockets and a separate zippered pocket to store wet clothes in. When expanded, this weekend bag can fit two pairs of shoes, three to four outfits, a cosmetic bag and a laptop, according to the brand. It comes in a variety of colors (like pink , khaki and white ) and has a 4.7-star average from over 2,600 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions: 16.1 x 14.5 x 8.6 inches | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: Yes

Etronik Travel Duffel Bag

Available in medium and large sizes, both of which are carry-on compliant, this weekender bag has a USB charging port on the outside that you can plug your phone into when it needs some juice. Both sizes also have a separate shoe compartment, a separate compartment inside for wet clothes, a luggage trolley strap so you can slip it over a spinner suitcase and a detachable shoulder strap. This bag has a 4.5-star average from over 6,200 reviews on Amazon.  

Dimensions:  18.5 x 14.2 x 8.7 inches (medium), 21.7 x 16.5 x 9.4 inches (large) | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Bagsmart Quilted Weekender

This duffel from Bagsmart, a brand that also makes highly-rated toiletry bags , has a 4.7-star average from over 2,380 reviews on Amazon. It comes in medium and large sizes, both of which meet most airlines’ requirements for carry-ons. Along with the main compartment, there are three small pockets on the inside. The outside of the bag features a pocket for a water bottle, a large zippered pocket for a laptop and a smaller zippered pocket for things like keys or your wallet. 

Dimensions:  19.5 x 8.2 x 11.5 inches (medium), 21.2 x 8.7 x 12.3 inches (large) | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: Yes

Bagsmart Overnight Bag

Slightly smaller than the medium weekender from Bagsmart, this quilted option can be used as a gym bag, overnight bag or hospital bag, according to the brand. It has a 4.6-star average from over 2,200 reviews on Amazon and comes in 11 colors, including pink , black and navy . The bag includes a removable shoulder strap, an outer pocket for a water bottle and multiple inner pockets. 

Dimensions:  18.5 x 11 x 8.5 inches | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: Yes

Wildroad 50L Travel Duffel Bag

When not expanded, this bag meets most carry-on requirements. Need something bigger (even if you have to check your bag)? Unzip two zippers to add four inches of length to this bag. The main compartment also has two large zippered pockets to store things in. This bag comes with a top handle, as well as an adjustable shoulder strap and a trolley sleeve. Choose from colors like army green , black and blue , all of which have brown faux leather accents. This bag has a 4.7-star average rating from over 1,100 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions:  20.8 x 10.2 x 11.8 inches | Material: Canvas and faux leather | Carry-On: Not when fully expanded

G4free Sling Bag

Keep your hands free with this sling bag, which is worn over one shoulder and across your back. The large, main compartment can fit items like a laptop, books or tablets. Then, there are three smaller zippered compartments on the outside of the bag to fit things like your wallet, keys and more. There is also a small zippered compartment on the strap that goes across your chest, to provide easy access to things you may need to grab quickly (like your phone). This bag is made with water-resistant nylon and has a 4.5-star average from over 5,600 reviews on Amazon.

Dimensions: 16.5 x 3.5 x 9.4 inches | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: Yes

Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack

This nylon crossbody from Waterfly, which was expert-recommended as a great travel accessory , comes in 17 colors and has an adjustable, reversible shoulder strap, lots of pockets (including two mesh side pockets) and a hidden earphone hole. It has a 4.5-star average from over 35,000 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions: 7 x 3.5 x 15  inches | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Cuero Large Leather Duffel 

Cuero Large Leather Duffel

Made from real leather, this large duffel has a 4.4-star average from over 3,000 reviews on Amazon. It has a large main compartment and two medium-sized side compartments that can hold your shoes, tech or other items you want to keep separate from everything else. It also has two front pockets that you can use for smaller items. You can carry it by its top handle or use the double shoulder strap. This bag also comes in smaller sizes — including options that are 24 , 28 and 30 inches long. 

Dimensions: 32 x 11.5 x 10  inches | Material: Leather | Carry-On: No

Baosha HB-28 Canvas Weekender

This highly-rated bag has a 4.8-star average from over 3,500 reviews on Amazon. The main compartment can hold enough for a one to two-night trip and has a separate compartment at the bottom for shoes, according to the brand. It can be worn over your shoulder via shorter double shoulder straps or a longer detachable strap and it also has a trolley sleeve. 

Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 8  inches | Material: Canvas and faux leather | Carry-On: Yes

Coofay Travel Backpack

Think of this bag as a duffel that can be worn on your back. The bag unzips on three sides, much like a rolling suitcase and can fit three to four days’ worth of clothes, according to the brand. It also has a laptop compartment, a wet pocket and a separate shoe pocket. Padded shoulder straps also provide comfort when wearing it for long periods of time, according to Coofay. This bag has a 4.7-star average from over 2,700 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions: 16.5 × 11.8 × 5.9  inches | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Wonhox Travel Backpack

Similar to the option from Coofay, this travel backpack comes in large and extra-large sizes, both of which meet the requirements to be a carry-on on most airlines. There is a separate compartment for shoes, an internal sleeve for a laptop and padded straps for comfort. This travel backpack has a 4.6--star average from over 6,000 reviews and comes in 10 colors — including purple , beige and green . 

Dimensions: 16.9 x 11.8 x 7.9 inches (large), 18.5 × 12.2 × 8.6  inches (extra large) | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Wrangler Wesley Rolling Duffel Bag

This checked-size duffel bag can be carried by a dual top handle or you can pull out the retractable handle and glide it on two inline wheels. Along with the main compartment, there are four smaller outer compartments for added storage. This bag has a 4.3-star average from over 5,100 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions: 30 × 13 × 12  inches | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: No

Why trust NBC Select?

Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers topics like beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she looked for top-rated luggage and travel bags for this story. 

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Russia Packing List

Whether you're heading to Russia for vacation or business, there are a few absolute essentials that you can't forget to pack. Beyond the appropriate wardrobe, you should bring a power converter; your passport and visa; and much more. Make your list and plan ahead of time so you don't leave anything important behind.

You can't travel to Russia if you don't have a Russian visa. In order to get one, you should apply well in advance of your trip through an embassy. You will also need an invitation (issued by the hotel at which you plan to stay or through a travel agent), and you can use this invitation to apply for your visa. Double check that the visa is valid during the dates of your trip, and carry your visa with you wherever you go in Russia as sometimes police do random checks.

Bring some cash with you, as you will likely need it. Euros and USD can be exchanged almost anywhere in Russia. There will be ATMs in the airport (or wherever you are arriving), but it’s possible in Russia that they’ll be out of order—so don’t take that risk. It’s quite difficult to pay by credit card in Russia (and practically impossible to pay by debit card), so having cash is essential. Make sure the bills are in crisp, good condition, as it’s quite common in Russia for people (and even banks) to reject damaged bills.

If you’re traveling to Moscow or St. Petersburg and are planning on seeing the tourist attractions , make sure you have a good way of securing your money. Either wear a money belt or get a small bag that sits close to your body with a secure closure—and keep an eye on it!

If you are going to be staying with a host family, or interacting extensively with Russian people in general, it’s nice to bring some small souvenirs from your country (mugs, t-shirts, keychains, and so on). This is a small gesture that will be greatly appreciated.

Toilet Paper

Russian toilets are notoriously dirty and unkempt, and you will often not find toilet paper inside. Carry some with you (or a small pack of tissues) just in case. You may also want to pack a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer as well.

In general, it’s good to bring layers. A scarf will be particularly useful for covering your head if you’re a woman planning to visit religious monuments. This is usually not obligatory, but it is appreciated.

Russian weather is quite unpredictable, and even if you’re traveling at the height of summer, it would be wise to bring an umbrella. This is especially true in St. Petersburg or ​ northern Russia , where it's more likely to rain.

When you're packing your toiletry bag, make sure to include prescription drugs and contact lens solution. Although you can buy most household items in pharmacies and shops in Russia, these particular things are surprisingly difficult to find.

Fancy Outfits

If you plan on going clubbing, you'll need to bring nice clothes. Many clubs, especially in Moscow and St. Petersburg , have a strict dress code and will not let you in if you’re not up to their standards. So don’t show up wearing jeans and a T-shirt, which may be fine if you're  going to a casual, local bar  but not to an exclusive club.

Duffel Bags

Packing light is recommended no matter where you're traveling to. But in Russia, try to leave your oversized luggage and rolling suitcases at home. Instead, use a duffel bag that you can easily throw over your shoulder. Many Russian metro stations don’t have escalators but they do have huge staircases that must be climbed to get around the station, which is difficult to navigate with a bulky suitcase.

Russia Travel Basics and Tips

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How to Travel to Russia on a Budget

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Top 10 Travel Essentials

Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

Vacation Packing Checklist for France

How to Pack and Choose Clothing for Your New England Trip

The 9 Best Samsonite Luggage Items of 2024

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The 8 Best Travelpro Luggage Items of 2024

The 9 Best Rolling Duffels of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Can You Take a Tent on a Plane? Your Ultimate Guide to Air Travel with Tents

I magine this scenario: you've meticulously planned your dream camping trip. You've got your tent, sleeping bag, portable stove - everything you need for an epic adventure. But wait, you're traveling by plane! Suddenly, you're struck with a burning question: can you take a tent on a plane?

It's a common concern for travelers and a potential trip-ruiner if not addressed properly. But don't worry, we've got your back! Let's dig into the rules, regulations, and practicalities of carrying tents on planes.

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

• TSA allows tents in checked baggage, not in carry-on bags.
• Airlines may have specific size and weight restrictions for checked baggage, including tents.
• Tents may be considered oversized or overweight baggage, incurring additional fees.
• Checking with your airline before packing is crucial.
• Travel expert Samantha Brown emphasizes on following airline regulations and packing tents properly.

Read next: Can you bring a car seat on a plane?

Understanding Airline Regulations

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), you're allowed to carry tents in your checked baggage but not in your carry-on bags. This is due to the tent pegs, which could potentially be used as a weapon. However, regulations may vary across different airlines, so it's always a smart move to check with your airline before you start packing.

Size and Weight Restrictions

Each airline has its own set of rules when it comes to the size and weight of checked baggage. While some airlines may accept your tent as standard luggage, others may consider it oversized or overweight. This could mean additional fees, so be sure to account for this in your travel budget.

Packing Your Tent Properly

Travel expert Samantha Brown advises, "Tents can be a great way to save money on accommodations when traveling, but it's important to make sure you're following airline regulations and packing them properly to avoid any issues at the airport."

A good tip is to remove the tent pegs and pack them separately in your checked luggage. Another tip is to pack your tent in a sturdy bag to protect it from damage during transit. If you're a frequent flyer with camping gear , it might be worth investing in a specialized tent travel bag.

Benefits of Traveling with a Tent

Aside from the cost-saving aspect, traveling with a tent provides the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. It allows you to connect more deeply with nature and can lead to more memorable experiences compared to staying in conventional accommodations.

In a nutshell, yes, you can take a tent on a plane! But it's essential to do your homework first. Understand the rules and regulations of your airline, pack your tent properly, and be prepared for possible extra fees. Happy travels!

Can I take tent pegs on a plane?

Yes, but they must be packed in your checked luggage, as they're considered a potential weapon and aren't allowed in carry-on bags.

What other camping gear is restricted on planes?

Sharp objects like knives, multi-tools, and large liquid containers are typically not allowed in carry-on bags. Always check with the airline and TSA for specifics.

Are there any additional fees for taking a tent on a plane?

Yes, if your tent is considered oversized or overweight, you may have to pay additional fees. Each airline has its own policy, so it's important to check in advance.

Can I carry a sleeping bag on a plane?

Yes, sleeping bags are generally allowed both as carry-on and checked baggage, but always check with your airline for any size or weight restrictions.

How should I pack my tent for air travel?

Pack your tent and its poles securely in a sturdy bag. Consider packing tent pegs separately in your checked luggage to avoid issues.

For all you camping enthusiasts, here is another useful article: Can I take a cooler on a plane?

1. Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

2. Samantha Brown - Travel Expert

3. International Air Transport Association (IATA) - Baggage Guidelines

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Portable Camping Toilet, Folding Toilet for Adults with Lid and Retractable Toilet Paper Holder, Waterproof Porta Potty with Carry Bag and Disposible Liners for Camping, Hiking, RV Travel, Road Trips

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About this item.

• 【Sturdy and Comfortable】Our portable toilet for camping is more comfortable with a higher and wider seat compared with those round ones in the market. Made of premium ABS plastic, it is washable and sturdy to bear up to 400lbs, suitable for both adults and kids.
• 【Easier to Use and Portable】PAHTTO folding camping toilet is further updated to be easier to set up or fold down in seconds, particularly as it has only 7 side support sheets, while others on the market have 12. Coming with a waterproof storage bag, it can be conveniently packed into your bag without taking much space. Wrap any 6-8 gallon bag then you can use it anywhere and anytime.
• 【With Retractable Toilet Paper Holder and Handle】This portable potty is specially designed with retractable toilet paper holder for convenience, which spares enough space to fit for most of the toilet rolls in the market. At the back of our toilet, there is also a handle for movement of the toilet with ease.
• 【Multifunctional and Widely Applicable】With lid, it can not only be used as an outdoor toilet, but also as a trash can, a storage box, a stool, a vomiting bucket, etc. to satisfy your different needs when taking outdoor activities. Perfect for backpacking, traveling, camping, fishing, hiking, long road trips, and more.
• 【Package and Warranty】Package includes 1x Folding Camping Toilet, 1x Waterproof Storage bag and 12x Toilet Bags. We also provide 1-year warranty for free replacement or full refund for product quality problem. Please feel free to contact us if there’s any problem and we promise to give you a satisfying solution.

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• At PAHTTO , we are always engaged in improving your life convenience and experience with products of great quality. What we focus on are products that can not only meet you basic needs, but also integrate with aesthetic, comfort, and convenience.
• No matter your are spending time at home or travelling outside, you will be able to live a comfortable and convenient life with our products.

Product Description

Toilet Features

Toilet details.

Come with waterproof handy bag for easy carrying.

Multifuntional to be used as stool, toilet, storage box, trash can, vomiting bucket, etc.

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Technical details, additional information, warranty & support, looking for specific info, compare with similar items, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, portability, ease of assembly, ease and use of the toilet. They mention that it's strong, holds their weight perfectly, and is very portable. They appreciate the value for money. However, some customers dislike the size.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the toilet. For example, they say it's strong, holds their weight perfectly, and is practical. They also mention that it comes with good quality trash bags and a toilet paper holder. Overall, most are satisfied with the product's quality and functionality.

"...The seat worked perfectly for kids and adults . It’s strong, sturdy and comfortable. We just needed some high quality trash bags and it was gtg...." Read more

"...Quite stable and strong construction .It was used by a dozen or so people at an outdoor event and no one had a any problem." Read more

" Pretty good and very compact toilet...." Read more

"...I really like this adult potty thingy. It seems to fall apart at the touch BUT **surprise** it's seems to be INDESTRUCTIBLE...." Read more

Customers find the toilet very portable, easy to carry, and lightweight. They say it's sturdy and easy to store. Customers also say it takes almost no space when folded, making it perfect for traveling or camping.

"...Folds up flat-ish and it fit in a luggage filled car with no problems." Read more

"Pretty good and very compact toilet ...." Read more

"...This toilet is very portable and easy to carry , it supports my weight with no problem and is easy to clean because is plastic...." Read more

"...Either way, it folds up in almost nothing which is great for camping and overlanding ." Read more

Customers find the toilet easy to assemble. They say it unfolds fast and sets up quickly. Some are impressed with the ease and sturdiness of handling this toilet. They also say it's a good set up to use to avoid middle of night walks to camp bathroom.

"This Portable Camping Toilet is super easy to use .Quite stable and strong construction...." Read more

"... No skills required except curiosity . Play around with it and it falls into place. It must have been a math genious that designed this...." Read more

"...on top of our kayak folded up And it's discreet package and assembled in seconds ...." Read more

"...Well, it worked. Sturdy as heck and easy to set up and easy to store. My only complaint is the toilet paper roll holder is difficult to pull out...." Read more

Customers like the ease of use of the toilet. They say it's easy to use, fold, and store. Some mention that it'll hold 400 pounds.

"... Folds up flat-ish and it fit in a luggage filled car with no problems." Read more

"...Either way, it folds up in almost nothing which is great for camping and overlanding." Read more

"... SOOOOOO easy to open and add the bag and go. I can do it in the dark...." Read more

"Is nice to fold it up , idk about it holding 400lbs like they say but it will work for camping if you gotta go" Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the toilet. They say it's good value, cheap, and a great investment.

"... Great price " Read more

"...Very sturdy, and great price !" Read more

"Unit was a good value and served it purpose. But lid broke off on second use." Read more

"... Great investment !" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the comfort of the toilet. They mention that the seat looks small but it is comfortable and portable.

"...It’s strong, sturdy and comfortable . We just needed some high quality trash bags and it was gtg...." Read more

"...The seat looks small but it is comfortable and again, very portable, does not take a lot of trunk space." Read more

"...It seems it'll take whatever I give and it's not the most uncomfortable toilet I've used." Read more

"Easy to use and a comfortable seat ." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the size of the toilet. They mention that the seat looks small, the lid is too small, and the toilet is very tall. Some say that it's perfect for camping, but some say that the toilet seat is too short.

"...Love that it holds the toilet paper and it a good size , tho i am a small person...." Read more

"I made a return. Not convenient to use. Leaks and very small , poor quality. You need to buy a separate inner pot for it." Read more

"...I'm only 5'2" but the seat was still a little too short . And since the sides are collapsible you've got to make sure it's on level ground." Read more

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The 14 Best Travel Crossbody Bags to Complement Your Wanderlust

Brought to you by true enthusiasts.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

There’s a fine line that divides the modern jet setter from the weary traveler, and it’s (mostly) marked by a precise combination of style and preparedness. And anyone who’s traveled knows that great bags are the most important companions.

Best Luxury

Bottega veneta the cassette padded leather crossbody bag.

Best Camera Bag

Isabel marant wardy camera bag.

Best Leather

Mansur gavriel moon sling bag.

The right crossbody allows you to carry your essentials hands-free while you’re hauling ass through airport security at 5 A.M. or putting in miles during a day of sightseeing. Of course, you might also need something to carry to dinner or on a spontaneous date with some accented stranger (a girl can dream!). The moral of the story is you need a bag that can do it all —and one that works for you in every way. So, whether you’re jetting off on an international adventure or gearing up for a summer vacation , shop the 14 best crossbody bags for travel, ahead.

If you prefer to shop designer, more power to you. For travel-friendly options, look for styles that close securely and transition well from day to night.

Dimensions: Height: 6.5 inches; width: 3.5 inches; length: 10.5 inches

Material: Leather

Colors: 19 options

Customer review: “This is a gorgeous bag, and the leather is so dreamy *but* you will be forced to pick and choose what you want to carry as the interior is quite small. I’m able to fit my iPhone pro, small wallet, lip balm and car key…and that’s pretty much it. But the look is worth it!”

While we love cameras, camera bags are usually ugly, point blank. You’re not paparazzi, and although you are a traveler, you wouldn’t want anyone to think of you as a tourist , right? This fashionable find from Isabel Marant is the solution.

Dimensions: Height: 5.25 inches; width: 3 inches; length: 7.25 inches

Material: Leather, silver, textile

Colors: Black

If style is your top priority, here’s an option that will match with quite literally anything you wear. The concession is that you might not be able to squeeze that telescopic camera lens inside it, but there’s more than enough room for airplane snacks.

Dimensions: Height: 5.5 inches; width: 7.1 inches; length: 10.6 inches

Material: Calfskin

Colors: Black, Desert, Avorio, Plum

Customer review: “What a beautiful and versatile bag, both in terms of style and colour. It's surprisingly roomy for the size. The leather is absolutely beautiful and buttery soft. Super happy with my purchase!”

Prada Padded Re-Nylon Shoulder Bag

It wouldn’t be a complete crossbody roundup without some form of nylon Prada. Similar to the ever-practical Re-Edition 2005 Re-Nylon Bag , this quilted flap-over bag comes complete with a detachable mini zipper pouch.

Dimensions: Height: 17 centimeters; width: 24 centimeters; length: 8 centimeters

Material: Nylon fabric

Colors: Black, Desert Beige

Customer review: “I have the original nylon and the Re-Edition, and they are my go-to bags. Lightweight, durable, and great for daily use.”

Dagne Dover Nova Sling Bag

If you’re the sporty or adventuring type of traveler, allow us to introduce you to this style from Dagne Dover. We think you’d be perfect for each other.

Dimensions: Height: 12 inches; width: 4 inches; length: 9.5 inches

Material: REPREVE recycled polyester

Colors: Onyx, Moonbeam, Goji

Customer review: “Recently took this bag on my weeklong trip to Amsterdam...It worked so well. It comfortably fit my small Nalgene water bottle, wallet, sunscreen, sunglasses—all the necessities. It’s not huge but it could also fit small souvenirs picked up throughout the day such as magnets, small jewelry items, candy, etc. Highly recommend!”

MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe

Here at ELLE, we love MZ Wallace . This perfectly sized Sutton is just the latest obsession. We scrolled through pages and pages of five-star customer reviews in search of any “cons” to no avail.

Dimensions: Height: 10.2 inches; width: 9.8 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Material: REC Oxford, Italian leather

Colors: 17 options

Customer review: “Love the feel, look and style. Everything fits so nicely in this bag. All items are an eyes view and so convenient to get. Love it.”

WE-AR4 The Cargo Leather Crossbody Bag

Cargo bags have appeared repeatedly over the past few fashion months, which means organization just got trendier. This sectioned bag allows you to keep all those bits and bobs in a place of their own.

Dimensions: Height: 8.5 inches; length: 10.5 inches; depth: 4 inches

Colors: Black, Sage, Navy, Ice Blue

BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag

This BAGGU option is actually a personal recommendation from associate fashion commerce editor Meg Donohue—although all the rave customer reviews amplify the point. This bag is spacious, not bulky, and surprisingly cute.

Dimensions: Height: 8 inches; width: 13.75 inches; depth: 4 inches

Material: Nylon

Colors: Black, Brown, Cocoa, Lemongrass, Pixel Gingham

Customer review: “This bag is so cute and easy to carry. I’m a mom on the go and my bags always get dirty. This bag is so comfortable and easy to clean. The strap is nice and wide and comfortable and the bag is big enough for me to even carry my Owala in it! If you’re on the fence, come on over. This bag rules!”

Béis The Sport Sling

Béis knows travel. This sling backpack is ideal for busy walkabout days and can complement any number of other Béis luggage pieces.

Dimensions: Height: 8.2 inches; width: 6.7 inches; depth: 2.7 inches

Material: Nylon, faux leather, recycled polyester

Colors: Black, Slate, Beige, Atlas Pink, Maple

Customer review: “Love all the pockets and how accessible the sling is! Grabbing what you need quickly from the slots is so handy. I can’t wait to use this on my Italy trip!”

Travelon Anti-Theft Courier Tour Bag

As a traveler with her naïveté on constant display, this anti-theft bag could’ve saved me some heartbreak (and the four hours I spent Google translating a theft complaint to the Paris police department). Slash-resistant material, deep locking compartments, and an RFID-protected pocket mean you can rest a little easier knowing your belongings are safe and sound.

Dimensions: Length: 11 inches; height: 11.5 inches; depth: 3 inches

Material: Cotton canvas, leather

Colors: Navy, Stone Grey

Customer review: “Did a month with this bag all over the world and there is no wear or tear that I can see at all...it fit everything I needed (wallet, rolled up rain jacket, phone, passport, rolled sun visor, etc.) and the zip out water bottle pocket works with a collapsible water bottle to fill up when you’re not in an airport.”

Tumi Valetta North/South Crossbody

For those who never leave their tech behind, keep your lifeline secure in Tumi’s vertical crossbody, complete with a touch of leather trim for style points. It has pockets for cash, cards, and mini must-haves.

Dimensions: Height: 7.3 inches; length: 5.3 inches, depth: 2 inches

Material: Nylon, leather

Mango Crossbody Bag

This bag from Mango gives off an aura of quiet luxury that makes it versatile enough to wear as your day-to-day bag or take it on the go. It’s polished, simple, and houses dual compartments to enhance convenience.

Dimensions: Length: 10.2 inches; height: 6.7 inches; width: 3.5 inches

Material: Polyurethane, polyester

Colors: Black, Leather

Customer review: “Yeah to to faux leather! The time has come for us to be conscious consumers. This purse is perfect to wear with my simple, classic wardrobe pieces.”

Coach Coachtopia Loop Quilted Wavy Tote

An extension of the Coach brand, Coachtopia revives recycled and upcrafted materials to give birth to new designs, like this puffy-soft crossbody laptop tote.

Dimensions: Length: 16.75 inches; height: 12.25 inches

Material: Recycled polyester

Colors: Twilight, Deep Orange, Black, Olive Green

Customer review: “This tote is so cute and comfy on my shoulders. It holds a lot of items...great for work or travel.”

FashionPuzzle Triple Zip Small Crossbody Bag

This crossbody bag has a 4.6-star rating from almost 30,000 reviews. At such an affordable price point, you might want to choose a couple of color options to add to your collection.

Dimensions: Length: 8.5 inches; height: 5.5 inches; depth: 2.75 inches

Material: Faux leather

Colors: 30 options

Customer review: “I use this when traveling, it holds so much without being bulky. I can put passports, phone, sunglasses, lip products, money/cards and still have gobs of room left.”

How to Shop for Travel-Friendly Crossbody Bags

• Look for bags that close securely. Zippered or lock closure tops are best. Snaps and magnets come in second, and open tops offer the least protection against theft.
• Before purchasing, make sure a bag will hold all of your necessities. If you’re a seasoned traveler, you likely know which items you like to keep on your throughout your days. But if not, give it some thought. Will you want to keep your passport on your person, or are you comfortable using the hotel safe? Do you carry an inhaler or EpiPen? Is your wallet large, or do you have a sleek card holder? Think these things over and be sure your new bag will hold everything you want it to. Often, it’s better to go slightly larger than you might initially think you need. Size up.
• Ideally, the bag will feel comfortable to wear and will have a thick, perhaps even padded, strap. It’s also preferable for straps to be adjustable.
• The more organizational features, the better.
• A bag that can be worn in multiple ways or has a versatile style is best if you want to pack light. Some bags won’t transition well to a fancy dinner or night out. If you only plan to bring one bag, keep this in mind.
• If you’re more concerned with practicality, you’ll definitely want to look for durable, weather-resistant materials, so you don’t have to worry about getting caught in the rain.

Why Crossbody Bags Are Good for Travelers

• If worn as a true crossbody, it’s not as easy for the bag to slip off your shoulder—or to be snatched—as it is with a tote, shoulder, or handbag. Yet, it still provides that handsfree convenience. The same can be said for backpacks.
• From a fashion perspective, crossbody bags are easier to dress up than backpacks and are likely to match with more of your outfits.

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Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024)

In this article, we are going to go through everything you need to know about backpacking Russia.

Russia is the largest country in the world, with a land area equivalent to 11% of the earth’s total landmass. Pretty impressive, right?

With stunning tundra landscapes, huge cities, stunning beaches and an array of wildlife, it’s truly an amazing place to visit.

Some of the most popular sights include the capital city of Moscow, St. Petersburg, Lake Baikal, Sochi, Kazan and the Ural Mountains.

Although often not depicted as a travel destination, Russia has so much to offer. It’s also a great place for backpackers as accommodation, food and transport is generally very cheap.

Russia is also the first country I ever backpacked, all the way back in 2007! I also returned three years later and backpacked my way from London to Lake Baikal in Siberia.

So let’s dive right into the article, and find out all the things you need to know before backpacking Russia.

Boring stuff: I have visited each of the places I recommend and give you my honest opinion, warts and all. All photos are my own unless otherwise stated and may not be reproduced without permission. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

What regions make up Russia?

The Russian Federation is made up of eight districts. These are:

• Central – District Capital: Moscow
• North-Western – District Capital: St. Petersburg
• Volga – District Capital: Nizhny Novgorod
• North Caucasus – District Capital: Pyatigorsk
• Southern – District Capital: Rostov-on-Don
• Ural – District Capital: Yekaterinburg
• Siberian – District Capital: Novosibirsk
• Far-Eastern – District Capital: Vladivostok

Russia Highlights

Kaliningrad – a tiny Russian enclave on the Baltic Sea

Moscow – Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin Mausoleum, Bolshoi Theatre…

St. Petersburg – the Hermitage , Church on the Spilt Blood, the Winter Palace…

Yekaterinburg – final resting place of the Romanovs and gateway to the Ural Mountains

Mount Elbrus – Europe’s highest mountain!

Lake Baikal – the world’s largest and deepest body of fresh water.

Vladivostok – the end of the line, Russia’s port city on the Pacific Ocean.

Kamchatka – the land of fire and ice, volcanoes and more bears than people.

The Trans-Siberian Railway – everyone should take this journey at least once in their life!

Suggested Russia Itineraries

1 week – Moscow and St. Petersburg

2 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Yekaterinburg

3 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Yekaterinburg – Rostov-on-Don

4 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Novosibirsk – Irkutsk – Lake Baikal (Trans-Siberian routes)

5 weeks – Moscow – Yekaterinburg – Novosibirsk – Baikal – Vladivostok (return by Trans-Siberian)

6 weeks – Moscow – Novosibirsk – Baikal – Yakutsk – Kamchatka

Daily budget for backpacking Russia

Depending on where you visit in Russia, the cost of accommodation, food and transport will vary. For example, the touristy areas of Moscow may be more expensive than the more rural areas of Russia.

On average you are looking at a daily budget of around ₽4,800 ($63). This will cover basic accommodation costs, food, and transport whilst backpacking Russia.

To help you stick to your budget, we have plenty of money-saving tips later on in the article!

Russia Visas

Citizens of 55 countries including Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Israel, Laos, and the U.A.E can enter Russia visa-free for between 30-90 days depending on the agreement with that country.

If you are a citizen of Japan, the USA, the EU, the UK or a country in Asia or Africa you will have to apply for a visa. For some countries you can apply for a visa online, otherwise, you will have to go to your nearest Russian embassy or consulate.

Language in Russia

The Russian language uses the Cyrillic alphabet and it would pay to try and familiarise yourself with this a little before you go. All signage is in Cyrillic and English isn’t widely spoken, even in Moscow.

Getting to Russia

If you are travelling to Russia by flight, it’s likely you will arrive in Moscow as it has 3 large international airports; Sheremyetevo, Domodedovo and Vnukovo.

You may also choose to fly into Pulkovo airport, which is near St. Petersburg.

Trip.com has some of the best deals on flights to Russia.

Travelling into Russia by train is easy as the country has multiple high-speed rail connections with Europe.

Train routes run to Russia from Finland, Poland, France and Estonia. It’s also possible to go on other routes but it’s important to do your research as some require a transit visa.

Weekly routes to Moscow from the following countries. Check RealRussia for timetables and ticket prices.

Belarus: Minsk to Moscow – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to St. Petersburg – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to Moscow – 17 hours

Ukraine: Kiev to Moscow – 12 hours

Kazakhstan: Nur-Sultan (Astana) to Moscow – 40 hours

Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar to Moscow – 98 hours

China: Beijing to Moscow – 140 hours

You can travel to Russia by bus from Belarus, Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Poland, Germany and London. Although often not the most popular choice, it’s very cheap.

Ferries run to Russia from Japan, Korea, Turkey, Georgia and Ukraine.

It is possible to visit St. Petersburg visa-free by taking a cruise from Helsinki, Tallinn or Stockholm with St Peter Line. See their website for full details.

Getting around Russia

Russia is a HUGE country, but luckily there are a variety of transport options to help you get around.

Plane – There are over 200 airports within Russia, so when it comes to domestic flights there are plenty of choices.

Train – Travelling by train through Russia is one of the best options, as it’s a lot cheaper than catching a flight and is often more convenient.

Be aware that some stations have retained their Soviet names on timetables which can be a little confusing ( Yekaterinburg is shown as Sverdlovsk for example).

Metro – The metro system is located in 7 of Russia’s cities; these are Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Novosibirsk, Samara and Yekaterinburg. It’s the best way to explore these cities.

City bus systems – The public transport systems in Russian cities are usually made up of buses, trolleybuses and trams. Travelling this way is cheap, and very convenient.

Long-distance bus services – There are plenty of long-distance bus services around and they are a great option whilst backpacking Russia.

The Trans Siberian Railway

There are three main routes:

• Trans-Siberian – Moscow to Vladivostok
• Trans-Mongolian – Moscow to Ulaanbaatar
• Trans-Manchurian – Moscow to Beijing

Unfortunately, at present there is no “hop-on, hop-off” service, so if you wish to visit places along the route, you must buy individual tickets for each leg of the journey.

Where to stay – Cheap accommodation in Russia’s most popular tourist spots

It’s inevitable that accommodation prices will vary depending on where you travel throughout Russia.

To give you an idea, I’ve come up with a list of the most popular spots in Russia and a cheap accommodation option for each one:

Moscow – Napoleon Hostel

St. Petersburg – The Roomers

Lake Baikal – Mini Gostinica near Lake Baikal

Belokurikha – Hotel Berkut

Sochi – Sochi Hotel

Kazan – Mironov’s House

Money in Russia

The currency in Russia is the Russian rubles (or rouble – RUB).

The exchange rate fluctuates but at the start of 2022, the average exchange rate is $1 = 75 RUB.

The important thing to remember about money in Russia is that It’s always best to exchange it in advance.

Cards are generally accepted in the country, but you’ll never know what the exchange rate is or if Russian banks will accept the card.

Also, a lot of things are paid for in cash in Russia including public transport and tipping so it’s always best to have cash on you.

Sample costs of items across the country*

The best places to visit in russia.

Here are the top places to visit whilst backpacking Russia. They have been split by district to make things easier for you!

The North-Western district

• St. Petersburg
• Veliky Ustug
• The Republic of Karelia
• The Pskov Region

Visitors to Russia should allow at least a couple of days to discover charming Saint Petersburg . Highlights include the Hermitage, Winter Palace, Church on the Spilt Blood and the canals.

St Petersburg really is a highlight of Russia, so if you’re planning a trip be sure to include it in your itinerary. Check out this excellent guide to the beautiful Russian Palaces in the city (the Winter Palace was a highlight of my trip back in 2007).

The Central district

• Sergiev Posad

No trip to Russia is complete without exploring the country’s impressive capital, Moscow . Allow at least three days to see the major sights including Red Square, the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Lenin Mausoleum and more.

The Volga district

• Nizhny Novgorod
• The Republic of Tatarstan
• The Raifsky Bogoroditsky Monastery

The Volga region is one of the true heartlands of Russia and encompasses the Volga River basin and stretches down to the Caspian Sea.

The Southern district

• Rostov-on-Don
• Novocherkassk

From Black Sea beaches to Europe’s tallest mountain, Elbrus, the Southern District is packed full of exciting places to visit. Pyatigorsk is famous for its mineral springs and spas and Sochi was home to the 2014 Winter Olympics.

The Ural district

• Yekaterinburg
• The Ural Mountains
• Taganay National Park
• Kungur Ice Cave
• Romanov Death Site

The Ural Mountains divide European Russia from Asia. The city of Yekaterinburg is a pleasant city with a dark past, as it was here that the Romanov family met their terrible fate in 1918. It’s not all gloom and doom though, and the city is filled with parks, lakes and impressive architecture.

The Siberian district

• Novosibirsk
• Stolby Reserve
• The Omsk Region
• Lake Baikal
• Belokurikha

Siberia is a vast expanse of forest (taiga) that covers an area the size of the United States. The region’s crown jule is Lake Baikal, the deepest and largest body of fresh water in the world. In summer, the area is perfect for hiking, camping, picking berries and enjoying the great outdoors. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a winter playground!

The Far-Eastern district

• The Kheketsir Mountains
• Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky
• Land of the Leopard National Park

Russia is a wild country, but the Russian far east takes this to new extremes. From the “pole of cold” at Oymyakon in Yakutia can reach temperatures of -70 degrees Celcius! Conversely, the Kamchatka peninsula is the land of fire and ice. The volcanic peninsula is so otherworldly that the Soviets used it as a testing ground for their spacecraft!

Food and drink in Russia

When it comes to food in Russia, there is a variety of cuisine available. In the larger cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg, there is more choice of cafes and restaurants. Japanese is a popular cuisine in these big cities, and western food is readily available.

However, as you head to the more rural areas of Russia, you will find there are fewer options and it’s harder to find menus in English.

There are plenty of tasty national dishes in Russia including pelmeni, borshch , pirogi and tvorog .

Vodka is the national drink of Russia and is usually knocked back in one gulp and then chased with a salted cucumber or a bite of black bread . However, vodka in Russia is not for the faint-hearted with such a high alcohol concentration, so be wary if you aren’t a big drinker!

Best time to visit Russia

The best time to visit Russia largely depends on what district you visit, and the purpose of your trip.

However, generally, the most popular time to visit the country is between June-August which is Russia’s summertime.

Although the weather is warm, the popular cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg get incredibly crowded during this time of year.

If you don’t mind the weather being a bit cooler, you can choose to visit Russia in May or September. The crowds will be a lot thinner, and accommodation prices will often be cheaper.

Many people like to visit in the wintertime to see a snowy Russia. It’s important to note that October and November are the wettest months of the year, so December would be a better choice if you don’t mind sub-zero temperatures!

16 money-saving travel tips for backpacking Russia

• Stay in a hostel dorm or a cheap economy room (There are plenty out there).
• Exchange currency beforehand rather than pay by card.
• You can often volunteer in exchange for food and accommodation by using sites like the Help Exchange.
• Getting a tourist pass in Moscow and St. Petersburg will save you money when it comes to entering attractions.
• Some popular attractions have ‘free admission days’.
• Use overnight trains to save a night’s accommodation. Book the tickets about a month in advance for an even cheaper deal.
• Always use the metro in big cities if possible!
• A troika travel card in Moscow costs around ₽50 ($0.66) and can be topped up at any time. With this card, any public transport journey in Moscow will cost ₽42 ($0.56).
• Gastro food courts are perfect if you want cheap restaurant-quality food.
• Stick to delicious Russian dishes as western food is a lot more expensive.
• Research transport options before heading to another destination, as long-distance buses are often even cheaper than the train.
• The government sometimes organise free entertainment such as concerts or screenings of matches.
• Eat at a street vendor or small local cafe to cut your costs.
• Stock up on supplies at the local supermarkets.
• Buy a cheap travel Sim Card to save on network charges.
• Don’t use taxis as they are expensive.

Is Russia Safe to Visit?

Although Russia has a very sketchy reputation, today generally speaking it’s as safe as many other countries in Europe.

Police and security cameras are located throughout popular cities, and the city of Moscow even has its own tourist police force.

However, no country is ever 100% safe and there are things to be cautious of whilst backpacking Russia.

Pickpocketing is incredibly common, especially in popular tourist spots like St. Petersburg and Moscow.

It’s also important to note that if you’re a member of the LGBT community, you should refrain from public displays of affection.

In Russia discussion of homosexuality issues or gay rights in the presence of minors is punishable by law, so there is a need to be careful.

Tourists are also strongly advised against travelling to the North Caucasus, as it’s considered to be the most dangerous region in Russia. With terrorist activities, higher crime rates and corruption, this is an area of Russia to avoid.

With the above in mind, it pays to have good cover while backpacking through Russia. Our partners at World Nomads are experts at providing cover for backpackers. You can get a free, no-obligation quote here .

On my second visit to Russia, I experienced police corruption first-hand. I was with friends drinking a beer in a public park and the police came and said that it was illegal and we must go with them (we had seen many other people doing the same, so it seemed suspicious from the outset).

It soon became clear that the police were after a bribe, and we each paid 2,000 ($25) to avoid being taken to jail. We were made to get in the police car and pass the money under the seat so no one could see what was going on.

I will add that this was over 10 years ago so perhaps things have improved, but be wary of the police and avoid interactions with them where possible.

Recommended vaccines for Backpacking in Russia

If you will just be visiting the cities and urban areas in Russia vaccines aren’t too important. If you will be spending time in the Russian wilderness, then it is advisable to have the following vaccines (all of which I had before camping in Siberia):

• Hepatitis (A, B and C combined)
• Tick-borne encephalitis

Russian wildlife

Russia is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and what you could encounter will differ depending on the area you visit.

Generally, a lot of the time animals are more afraid of us, than we are of them but it’s still important to know what dangerous species are around.

Bears – Bears will only attack people in self-defence or if they feel threatened (e.g wounded bears, mothers with cubs or bears who have just come out of hibernation).

Boars – Boars use their tusks as weapons, and will often attack anything that they deem a threat due to poor eyesight.

Dogs – Stray dogs are found all across Russia and can attack if they are defending their territory.

Elk – Elks are incredibly fearful animals, and will attack if they think someone poses a threat. Due to its size, an Elks kick can be fatal.

Snakes – There are a variety of venomous snakes located within Russia and these include the Common European adder, the blunt-nosed viper, the European cat snake and the Japanese striped snake. However, it’s the Northern viper that’s the most deadly.

Spiders – The Karakurt spider is one of the most dangerous spiders in the world, and if bitten you should seek medical attention immediately.

Ticks – Ticks in Russia can carry encephalitis and Lyme disease, which, unfortunately, can lead to swelling of the brain, seizures and the inability to move. If you will be spending any time in the taiga, it is recommended to get the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine.

Wolves – Wolf attacks on people are rare, but it’s often down to two reasons. Either their habitat has disappeared meaning they are moving into neighbourhoods, or their food source is running low during early spring.

Books about Travel in Russia

I have also written my own book about backpacking across Russia from Moscow to Irkutsk. You can buy it on Kindle here .

Russia is an incredible country, with a wide variety of landscapes and architecture. Although it’s often overlooked as a travel destination, it should be on the bucket list of every traveller.

With a range of transport options, cheap accommodation and a variety of different cuisine it’s the perfect destination if you’re a budget traveller.

Backpacking Russia is the best way to see the country, and trust me you won’t be disappointed!

If you have any questions about travelling on a budget in Russia, feel free to leave a comment below or get in touch via the contact form!

Check out my other backpacking guides

Backpacking China

Backpacking Hong Kong

Backpacking Kazakhstan

Backpacking the Silk Road

Backpacking the Baltics

Backpacking the Balkans

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

2 thoughts on “ Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024) ”

And now? how would it be to travel in Russia? The place is vast. Should be much the same as before Putin’s ridiculous invasion. Always wanted to take the trans-sib. Don’t want to wait ten more years (been waiting 30 as it is!). Another idea i had was to do one of the silk routes then tag on the trans mongolian train to at least get that part of the journey to Asia if I cannot travel on the Trans-sib part.

Aside from more stringent checks at customs (especially if you have evidence of visits to Ukraine), travelling across the vast expance of Russia will indeed be much the save as it ever was (an adventure, and not always easy). I would highly recommend doing the trans-sib if you have the chance. I’d also recommend taking one of the slower, local trains rather than the tourist services like the Rossiya if you want an authenitc experience (and a cheaper ticket). The Silk Road is also an incredible experience, but there isn’t just one train and a lot of changes (plus parts will need to be done by bus). Best wishes, Steve

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In One Image Evacuation Point By Emile Ducke

Suddenly, their old life was gone.

As they sat in the evacuation bus in northeastern Ukraine, they could hear Russian bombs thud into their villages. But one woman stood. She wanted a look in the trunk, fearful her papers were out of reach.

They had stuffed belongings into whatever bags they could lay their hands on. There was no time.

Halyna Tarasenko, 72, was thinking of her husband, still at home in their village. “He didn’t want to leave,” she said.

The team of rescuers who had helped gather them waited outside. There would be many more buses like this one.

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In One Image

Evacuation Point

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By Emile Ducke

This little bus was filled with people from Vovchansk and the smaller villages around it, in the path of Russia’s surge into the Kharkiv region of Ukraine .

I met them at the interim point from where they were being taken to Kharkiv itself, the nearest big city.

Volunteers and rescue workers helped those who could not walk and handed out water and food. Cellphone service has been limited during the fighting, so a satellite internet connection was set up, which allowed the evacuees to tell their loved ones they were safe or let them try to check whether family members were still in danger.

Still, there was barely time to catch a breath.

In little more than a week since Russian forces again poured across the border, thousands of people have been rushed to Kharkiv , Ukraine’s second-largest city, with a population now of 1.2 million . Those who fled the border areas described warfare that has erased whole streets.

Displacement is not a new experience in this region, and the evacuations may be far from over. Everybody on this bus had already confronted one Russian occupation: In the first months of the war, before Ukraine pushed them back, Russian troops had reached Kharkiv’s outer ring, forcing hundreds of thousands to flee.

They are already pounding the city again with missiles and powerful glide bombs. Though their new offensive has slowed in recent days, there are still fears that it could bring Kharkiv back within artillery range.

Written by Peter Robins .

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

Russia sent a pointed reminder that it could use battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine, releasing video of its forces beginning exercises  to practice their use.

As Russia’s war effort in Ukraine intensifies, it is increasingly clear that efforts by the West to squeeze Moscow’s oil revenues are faltering .

The United States and Europe are coalescing around a plan to use interest earned on frozen Russian central bank assets to provide Ukraine with a loan to be used for military and economic assistance .

Europe’s Defense Industry: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine jolted Europe out of complacency about military spending. But the challenges are about more than just money .

Putin’s Victory Narrative: The Russian leader’s message to his country appears to be taking hold : that Russia is fighting against the whole Western world — and winning.

A Boxing Win Offers Hope: The Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk became the world’s undisputed heavyweight champion, a victory that has lifted morale  in a country struggling to contain Russian advances.

How We Verify Our Reporting

Our team of visual journalists analyzes satellite images, photographs , videos and radio transmissions  to independently confirm troop movements and other details.

We monitor and authenticate reports on social media, corroborating these with eyewitness accounts and interviews. Read more about our reporting efforts .

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Rigs of the 2024 Highland Trail 550 (HT550)

By Miles Arbour

Associate Editor & Events Manager

1,760 Posts

Known for its stunning scenery, uncooperative Scottish weather, and technical terrain, the Highland Trail 550 (HT550) is one of the bikepacking classics. The 2024 grand depart kicks off Saturday morning, and more than 60 riders will take on the rugged 550-mile route. Find our gallery of over 30 race rigs here, featuring detailed bag and gear highlights for each…

PUBLISHED May 23, 2024

Seeing who lines up in Tyndrum, Scotland, for the annual Highland Trail 550 (HT550) is always uniquely exciting. Originally designed as a training ride for the Colorado Trail Race, the HT550 has evolved into one of the most storied bikepacking events in the world, attracting ultra-endurance athletes looking to take a run at the record as well as everyday bikepackers seeking a little slice of solitude and one hell of a challenging ride. The 550-mile route boasts over 50,000 feet of vertical gain and is known for its rocky singletrack, unforgiving Scottish weather, and remote backcountry terrain. Since 2013, riders have flocked to the village of Tyndrum each spring to tackle the route, and it’s grown in popularity each year. More than 60 riders are registered for the 2024 grand depart, which takes off at 8:30 a.m. local time this Saturday.

With the help of Alan and the participants, we gathered bike and gear details for over 30 riders taking on the HT550 this year. Scroll through to get a good look at all the rigs rig, and then head over to the 2024 Highland Trail 550 event page to follow along live when they roll out this weekend.

Age 42 / Disley (United Kingdom)

BIKE : For my second attempt at the HT550, I’ll be riding the 2024 Pipedream Sirius S6 Ti (influenced by Bikepacking.com), with 2024 Rockshox SID Ultimates and Hope E4’s. I’m running The 2.4” Maxxis Forkaster and Recon Race on an Enve 24h 525 Wheelset and a OneUp 210mm V3 dropper. The drivetrain is a mix of Sram XX1 and GX taken from my 2022 HT550 Cannondale F-SI. Hopefully this bike will be a bit easier going than the Cannondale, which was somewhat unforgiving over the distance. BAGS : The top tube bag, 2 x stem bags and frame bag are all home-made by my mum out of VX21, lined and seam sealed. Total credit to her as this is her first attempt! It took her longer to make these than it will for me to ride the HT550! Using a Restrap drybag bag for the rack, and contemplating using a couple of tailfin cages (not shown) to pack extra kit on the rack mounts or downtube in the event the weather shifts and I need wet weather kit. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : The bags! Very proud of these, and the Tumbleweed Ti rack which is giving me 100% dropper use. As its looking dry, and I’m planning to camp one night and use 2 x bothys, I’m just taking an Alpkit Bivvy Bag, Therm-a-Rest ¾ pad, Alpkit Pipedream 400 bag. Im also packing extra lighting, 2 bar lights and one helmet light, as I enjoy night riding and in 2022 I ran out of lights causing me to lose time. I will be packing the stem cells and framebag full of Torque and Stryker food to keep me going for the first couple of days without much need to resupply. Note that wet weather may result in a change of kit – i.e Big Agnes Copper Spur or Vango F10 tent.

Flora Rendell-Bhatti

Age 29 / stirling (scotland).

BIKE : I’ll be riding the HT550 on a Sonder Titanium Broken Road with the SRAM NX Eagle 1×12 groupset and Rockshox SID fork. With the addition of TT bars on a Sonder confucius handlebar. I’ll be running 2.35″ Maxxis Ikon Tyres with a Vittoria insert in the rear. BAGS : Alpkit custom stingray frame pack, with two stem cell snack pouches either side of my handlebars. Apidura 14L handlebar bag with 4.5L accessory pocket. Arkel 15L Seatpacker. Evoc Hip 3L pack with hydration bladder. 1.5L top tube bag. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : MSR carbon reflex 1 to keep the midge out! Therm-a-Rest Hyperion sleeping bag. Restrap hike-a-bike harness to allow me to wear my bike like a backpack when going gets tough! Katadyn water filtration pump.

Allen Boardman

Age 41 / northwest (united kingdom).

BIKE : I’ll not be at the pointy end, more the slow painful back end on my Hunt Bikes 29er. I’m going to run this with a 130 fork for sleepy descents in the dark and trying to slog my way up the other side with Sram 12 Speed Eagle with 32T Chainring. Hope E4s are taking care of stopping and Hope Fortus 30w SC’s with Teravail Honcho F&R 2.6 Tan Wall tyres, Stooge Moto bars, Ergon grips and no dropper. BAGS : I will be an 8L Acepac drybag in harness. Top Tube bag & two feed bags either side of the stem and I’ll have either an 8L, or rolled up 16 ltr Acepac front drybag attached to a Salsa cradle I got earlier this year. Custom frame bag by Mike @ Poca Bags – fair few thousand KM old now. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo LE tent. Neo Air Xtherm, Acepac Down Coat, Cumulus bag, Cumulus down pants (I’m a cold person) Garmin 540 Solar for navigation, 6-pack Exposure front light.

Thomas Bour

Age 32 / lyon (france).

BIKE : Epsilon Bike, steel frame handmade in Lyon, France. RockShox SID SL Ultimate 100mm Fork, Shimano XT 1×12 drivetrain, XTR cassette 10-51T, Hope 32T crankset, Canecreek eeSilk seatpost, Asterionwheels, Hutchinson Kraken 2.4” tires + rear insert. Farr aero bolt-on for the fast sections. BAGS : All bags are made by Restrap. I’ll be using the hydration pack without bladder to carry bulkier items like the mat and bivy. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : I’ve changed my usual 34T chainring for a 32T. I’ve also swapped the Garmin power pedals over the Ritchey with a wider platform to have more comfort, as the race will require more standing. Wahoo Roam and Bolt as backup.

Emil Carr-Ross

Age 21 / glasgow (scotland).

BIKE : Orange P7 2019 29er, Pipedream rigid fork, SON 28 dynamo, Vittoria Mezcal 2.35” tyres, Redshift Components suspension seatpost, Velo Orange Crazy bars with Ergon GP1 grips. Box One/Two Prime 9 drivetrain. BAGS : Handmade/homemade waxed canvas half frame bag and 2x stem bags, Tailfin Aeropack, top tube bag and cages. Evoc 1.5L hydration vest. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : My Stove! A Chinese ‘wasp’ titanium gas stove and Lifeventure mug to keep me well fed and warm at night.

Thomas Casey

Age 33 / sudbury (united kingdom).

BIKE : Cannondale Scalpel HT, with a Fox 34, Roval Wheels with Barzo Tyres 2.35″ and 2.6″ up front, a dropper post for getting rad. BAGS : Ortlieb, Apidura, and tailfin with an Evoc hydration vest. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : A new Gore rain jacket and my expertise in feet drying.

Kirsten Cluley

Age 35 / glasgow (scotland).

BIKE : Mason Raw, RockShox SID front fork, Vittoria Barzo/Mezcal 2.35” tyres with rear insert. BAGS : Apidura frame, saddle, and top tube bags with Scotland-made Straight Cut Design Sidekick feed bags. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Self-modified hydration pack to allow bike carry on the hike-a-bike sections.

Felix Cousineau

Age 22 / montreal, quebec (canada).

BIKE : The bike I’ll be riding is a Salsa Horsethief C, which I’ve fitted with a SID 120mm fork and GX AXS setup. Between the ground and me are some Terravail tires (2.6″ front/2.5″ back), Specialized Power 155 saddle and some Ergon grips. BAGS : Revelate Sweetroll for camping gear and some layers, Mag Tank-2000 bolt-on and Shrew saddle bag for snack storage, custom frame bag built by Shaka Packs, divided to hold food (bottom) and all my tools/spares (top). Also carrying a Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa for quick access to certain items. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : For camping I’m using my OR helium bivy, with a Sea to Summit mattress and quilt. For cooking, I have a 700ml Vargo pot which can hold a 4oz canister and all my accessories neatly. Super excited about the frame bag and not having to go around with a backpack!

Laurens Dingenen

Age 32 / antwerp (belgium).

BIKE : I’m tackling my first Highland Trail 550 on a Cannondale Scalpel HT (HT stands for Highland Trail, right?) Carbon 4. The groupset is a stock Shimano Deore XT 1×12 (34t, 10-51 cassette). I’ve spiced the bike up with Hunt Proven carbon wheels and a Crankbrothers Highline dropper seatpost. Tires are the unoriginal Vittoria Barzo/Mezcal combo in 2.35″, with a foam insert in the rear. My hands rest on Ergon GS2 grips with barends, and a pair of inner barends for an extra position. No dynamo, just a lot of weight in powerbanks. BAGS : Tailfin Aeropack alloy, Ortlieb full frame bag, Restrap Race top tube bag, a small feed bag on the handlebars and the Ortlieb handlebar pack. I’ll be drinking out of a Camelbak Chase hydration vest. None of these are new, and all have served me well on multiple trips. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : The bike. Last year I rode a big section of the HT550 on my gravel bike in GBDURO. I’m looking forward to redoing some of that rough stuff on a proper MTB. Even though I’ll probably be wishing for a full sus later on the route.

Age 39 / Inverness (Scotland)

BIKE : Orbea Oiz m pro trail, carbon, dropper, Fox 34 110mm, Fox Float with 3 position lockout, 34T chainring, 10-51T XT, Ergon GP3, Vittoria Barzo 29 x 2.35″ tires. Peatys fidlock bottles. BAGS : Straight Cut frame bag, top tube bag, custom sidekick stem bags. Salsa Anything front cradle with dry bag. Apidura backcountry dropper saddle bag. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Outdoor Research bivvy with additional hoop, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir mat, Vango cobra 400 ultralight sleeping bag, Alpkit rig 3.5 tarp, Albion all road ultralight jacket for nights, 7mesh Copilot rain jacket, Garmin 1040 solar, Garmin Spot gen 4, backup manual map laminated cards. Exposure Maxx d, Joystick and Sirrius.

Calum Fisher

Age 34 / edinburgh (scotland).

BIKE : Mason Raw with XT drivetrain, Rockshox SID fork, DT Swiss wheels, and Vittoria Barzo/Mezcal tyres. BAGS : Frame and top tube bags from Straight Cut Designs, and Restrap saddle and stem bags GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Hooped bivi, sleeping bag, mat and pillow in the saddle bag, snacks in the top tube bag, and bladder and bits in the frame bag. I’m well used to Scottish summers, so key equipment includes suncream, waterproofs, sunglasses, thermals, tick remover, and midge net.

Lukas Franciszkiewicz

Age 36 / zurich (switzerland).

BIKE : I’ve kept the same setup as on my last attempt in 2022. The most important upgrade is the sintered brake pads. BAGS : Mix of bags, including Tailfin and some self-made stuff. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : My waterproofs.

Miron Golfman

Age 31 / anchorage, alaska (usa).

BIKE : I’ll be racing the 2024 HT550 on a 2023 Santa Cruz Blur. On the rig is a 120mm DTswiss F 232 One fork, 115mm Rockshox Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shock, prototype HUNT Proven Trail Carbon wheels with Maxxis Ardent F & Ardent Race R tires (with Cushcore inserts), SRAM Code RSC brakes, drivetrain is a mix of SRAM Eagle 12speed components, Wolf Tooth Resole dropper post, Specialized Power Arc saddle, and Munky Nutz mudguards front & rear. For electronics, I have x2 Wahoo Element Roam for navigation, and a Fenix BC30 front light. BAGS : The frame pack is a Tailfin R&D Division custom bag, with a Tailfin prototype Long Top Tube Pack, and a Tailfin prototype Handle Bar Pack. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : I’ll be wearing a full Albion clothing kit, which includes their featured ABR1 Pocket bib shorts, a new Traverse jersey as well as a custom-built Visibility Cargo Vest. Between the carrying capacity of these layers, I’ll be carrying the majority of weight on my body, including food, repair kit, and electronics. I’ve built out my cockpit with hand care and longevity in mind. On the bars are Cane Creek bar ends, Woolf Tooth Fat Paw Cam grips, SQLabs inner bar ends, and Farr aero bolt-on V3 pads that work in combo with my Tailfin prototype bar pack to create a sort of aero bar system for resting on road sections. For my sleep system, I have a ground sheet, Sea To Summit Spark 18°F sleeping bag, and an Ibex merino wool Indie Hoodie for extra warmth in the wet cool of the Scottish highlands!

Andrew Hutcheson

Age 33 / fife (uk).

BIKE : Orbea Oiz. Vittoria Mezcal front and Schwalbe Racing Ralph rear. Specialized saddle, Ergon grips. Everything else as stock. BAGS : Wildcat Gear Front Harness with PHD Sleeping Bag and Bivvy Bag. Revelate Designs Vole seatpack, Revelate Designs Mag Tank and a StraightCut framebag for tools, clothes, and food. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : The sleeping set up in the Wildcat Harness is the same set up that’s been on every bikepacking ride, on 6 different bikes, since 2014, no need to change what works!

Lars Henning

Age 43 / south oxfordshire (england).

BIKE : Specialized Epic Evo, Fox 34 fork, Fox Transfer dropper, HUNT Proven wheels, SRAM NX Groupset. BAGS : Apidura Backcountry front and rear, DIY Framebag made from VX21, Alpamayo stem bag and feed bag. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Big Agnes 1P Fly Creek tent, Cumulus 350 Quilt, Exposure lights, Barzo tyres.

Clement Jacqueline

Age 27 / thierache (france).

BIKE : I’ll be riding the Highland Trail 550 on a Surly Karate Monkey. The wheelset is made up of Maxxis Crossmark 29 x 2.25″ mounted on a Velocity rim and a modified 1×10 drivetrain with a 28T chainring. BAGS : The bag set is a mix of homemade, reused items adapted to my small frame made with my old kayak equipment. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : The vintage look of this bike is because of a magnificent sticker kit found in the unsold boxes of a bike store.

Eleanor Jaskowska

Age 32 / llangadog, carmarthenshire (wales).

BIKE : I’ll be aiming to complete the HT550 in one piece with a smile on my face. I’m a full-suspension kinda gal, I’m also carrying a shelter and full sleep system (including pillow) to try and look after myself and rest as well as possible on a route like this! BAGS : Like most women of average height who opt to ride a full-suspension bike, I struggle for space. I’m running a Tailfin prototype handlebar bag up front (inherited second-hand from my partner Liam Glen). Then there’s an Apidura dropper post bag on the rear. I’m also carrying a 22l fastpacking rucksack to make up volume. I’m hoping that by carrying more weight on my body my bike will be a bit lighter and easier to push and carry. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : A controversial decision is to ride without a chamois. so I’ll let you know how that goes!

Katie Jones

Age 45 / edinburgh (scotland).

BIKE : I’m riding a Sonder Broken Road Ti XT. I’ve swapped out the tyres and will be running Maxxis Ardent front and rear, and I’ve made the switch to Hope EVO 155mm crankset and a 30t chainring. I’ve added a Sonder Confucius handlebar for extra stability and lift the front pack, to improve tyre clearance. I’m keeping my mudguards on to try and stay dry, and to get the most out of the dropper post. BAGS : A total mix. Ortlieb seat pack QR for extra clothes and food (shorter cranks means I can use my dropper with this), Alpkit custom frame bag for a 1.5L bladder, tools, spares and charging kit, Revelate Designs harness with a 13L dry bag for tent and sleep kit, Apidura stem bag for snacks. I’ll also be wearing a 3L Evoc hip pack for bits and bobs to keep handy on the go. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : I love my Nordisk Telemark tent. Super light and quick to pitch. Midge protection in minutes.

Camilla Loughlin

Age 29 / revelstoke, british columbia (canada).

BIKE : I’ll be riding my Jackalope custom steel hardtail, which was built right at home in Revelstoke! The bike is set up with a RockShox SID 120mm fork, We Are One 29″ carbon wheels with 2.4″ tires, One Up dropper post, Ergon saddle, Surly Moloko handlebars, and Wolf Tooth fat paw grips. BAGS : Rockgeist Gondola saddle bag, frame, top tube and feed bags, Revelate Egress pocket and roll, Apidura downtube bag. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : 1-person tent (Nemo Hornet), waterproof socks, margarita shot bloks and berry sour patch kids.

Kerry MacPhee

Age 37 / stirling (scotland).

BIKE : I’m riding a Genesis Mantle Hardtail finished off with Pro components, Koryak dropper, Fox StepCast 32 100mm travel fork, and full Shimano XTR with a 32T chainring. Cranks are 165mm. My wheelset is DT Swiss, and I’m running Vittoria Mezcal 2.25″ tyres with an insert in the rear. BAGS : Full Restrap race setup! Bar bag, frame bag, stem cells, top tube bag, and saddle bag. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : The Restrap harness is a fantastic bit of kit for the inevitable hike-a-bike, and their new backpack is excellent. Lots of pockets and adjustability. I’ll use Garmin for my navigation, which is always reliable.

Alex McCormack

Age 26 / south devon (united kingdom).

BIKE : I’m lucky enough to to be riding the Fairlight Holt 29er paired with 100mm RockShox Sid fork, Hunt proven XC wheelset, XTR groupset, PNW dropper, Garmin rally XC power pedals, Specialised power 143 saddle, Mt Zoom Stem, Vittoria tyres with a rear insert, Ergon grips BAGS : Tailfin R&D full frame bag, Tailfin Long TT bag, Tailfin 1.5L Downtube bag. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Albion Zoa down and rain shell, Fuel+ snacks in every crevice, Exposure lights.

Zoe Painter

Age 26 / whitehorse, yukon (canada).

BIKE : I’ll be riding my 2020 Surly Karate Monkey with a One Up dropper and a Fox 140mm fork. BAGS : I have a Revelate Designs harness up front, a Porcelain Rocket frame bag, and Rockgeist Microwave Panniers in the back. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : A Zpacks one-person tent to keep me dry and a cozy Enlightened Equipment quilt.

Age 23 / East Kilbride (Scotland)

BIKE : 2024 Marin Team 2 29ner Alloy Hardtail with Shimano XT groupset. No dropper for me, a lovely Thompson Seatpost and 2.35 Vittoria Mezcal Tyres. BAGS : Frame Bag is custom from Straight Cut Designs in Edinburgh. Front bag is Sea to Summit 12L dry bag on Salsa Rack which is super sturdy and keeps cables free. Rear is an Alloy Trailfin rack with 20L aero pack which has been a game changer for my small frame. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Restrap Hike a Bike Harness is a must for this route. Seat to Summit pillow because we all need a good sleep!

Age 50ish / Castleton, Hope Valley (England)

BIKE : Santa Cruz Blur, with Maxxis Ikons. BAGS : Custom Restrap frame bag coupled with the Tailfin Aeropack and top tube bag. I’ll be also using an OMM hydration vest. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Not many! Rather than a dynamo, I’ll be going with an Exposure front light and Anker power bank. My sleep system will be my good old Rab sleeping bag with an old army surplus bivi bag. Still deciding on GPS, my Edge 830 battery life seems a bit rubbish so probably going with my trusted Etrex 20.

Age 33 / Salzburg (Austria)

BIKE : I’ll be riding my Cervélo ZHT-5 hardtail with full SRAM XX1 groupset, Reserve 24 XC wheels, Race Face flat bars, and Pirelli Scorpion M and H 2.4″ tires. BAGS : I will be riding with a full set of Ortlieb waterproof bags. A 4L frame bag, Fuel Bag top tube bag, and a small seat bag. The only change is that this year I will use the new dark sand color. I’m also using a 3L trail running vest for food and drinks. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : I will take the full 7mesh Revelation jacket and Thunder pants combo. I trust my warmth to a Freeflow Polartec insulated jacket. Navigation on a Wahoo Roam v2. I have been riding on a custom Posedla 3D-printed saddle for over a year now. I like it so much, actually, that I got a special one fitted for my MTB position. So hopefully no saddle sores. Last but not least, I’m running a full kLite light system with a new Micro USB charger.

Jocelyn De La Rosa

Age 34 / kelowna, british columbia (canada).

BIKE : I’ll be racing the HT550 on a Wildwood Cycles TI Hardtail paired to a Fox 34SC 120mm fork. Drivetrain is a mix of Shimano SLX/XT/XTR, 1×12 with a 30t chainring. Brakes are Hope Tech4/V4. Tires are by Wolfpack, Race rear/Cross front combo. Other components include a One-up 160mm dropper to have more fun on the descents, SQLabs handlebars, and inner bar ends for more comfort. BAGS : Dispersed Framebag, Rockgeist Gondola saddle bag, Tailfin Top tube and down-tube bag, and a Gurp Stitchwork feedbag. I’ll be wearing a Salomon hydration vest with a 2L bladder. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Rain is pretty much a certainty. To stay dry-ish, I’m bringing four pairs of socks plus a Velocio hardshell, Sealzskin waterproof socks, some rain knickers, and a set of Pogie Lites. Front light is an Outbound Trail Evo, and I’ll have a Stoots Opalo 2 on my helmet. Carrying a full sleep kit with an S2S 8C sleeping bag, MLD event Bivy, and a Therm-a-Rest pad.

Sofiane Sehili

Age 42 / esclauzels, lot (france).

BIKE : Bombtrack Cale XC with Shimano XT M8100 groupset, Hunt Proven XC carbon wheels, René Herse Fleecer Ridge tires, KS Lev Ci seat post, Fizik Alpaca saddle, Rockshox Sid Ultimate fork and Sid Select shock. BAGS : All bags by Miss Grape. Il Coso, Cluster 7, Internode custom, Node. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Supernova M99 pro2 battery powered front light.

Niall Shannon

Age 39 / edinburgh (scotland).

BIKE : An Ibis Ripley with a Pike fork, Fox Float shock, OneUp dropper, XT groupset, and Maxxis Ardent Race tyres (29 x 2.35″) rolling on Hope hubs/Lightbicycle rims. BAGS : It’s the inevitable cocktail of bag brands with the highlight being the Straight Cut custom frame and top tube bags, Revelate Designs front harness (with tatty old 12L drybag that refuses to die), Jerrycan and Feedbag, and a Restrap saddle bag that’s just about small enough to still give some value from the dropper/shock. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : I love it all, but I’m most stoked on the custom Straight Cut bags. Ross did a great job making the most of limited/awkward space. Other than that, I have an insulated Sea to Summit mat that turns any old cold damp spot into the Shangri-La and a whole lot of peanut butter.

Lesley Sharpe

Age 48 / portree, skye (scotland).

BIKE : Trek Procaliber 9.7, SRAM GX Eagle 12 speed (10-52T), Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 wheelset with Barzco XC Trail 2.35″ up front plus Mezcal XC Trail 2.25″ out back, RockShox fork with 100mm of bounce. BAGS : Restrap and Apidura mash-up; Restrap Race Bar Bag, Apidura saddle, frame, top tube bag, and pouch for lots of squashies. Montane Gecko 12+ running vest for extra storage and Restrap Harness for the tough hike a bike sections of which I know will be a few! GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Terra Nova Pulse 1 tent for extra comfort and what little sleep I’ll get, 7mesh foundation pants – these are silky smooth and a dream to ride in for days, Muc Off mechanics gloves cause they’re nice n sticky and a Flex Tail Tiny Pump to inflate my Neo Air pad as I’ll have no lungs left.

Matt Stainsby

Age 45 / presteigne (wales).

BIKE : YT Jeffsy Aluminium full suspension, XT groupset, Ergon saddle and grips, Vittoria Mezcal/Barzo tyres, SON dynamo hub. BAGS : Salsa anything cradle and bag, Alpkit frame bag, Revelate Joey bag. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Probably going to go with an OR Helium bivvy, Exped sleeping mat, Therm-a-Rest quilt, and my 10-year-old Garmin 810 for navigation.

Ben Steurbaut

Age 41 / bredene, west-vlaanderen (belgium).

BIKE : I’m riding and hiking my titanium Chiru Divider through the Highlands. Completed the setup with a Shimano xt groupset (34T chainring / 11-51T cassette), a pair of Vittoria tyres, and a Fox Stepcast 32 suspension fork. On the handlebar I added a mini aerobar for the transition parts. BAGS : My lugggage goes into a custom made framebag from Witslingers, a DIY frontrol and Tailfin bags. Extra’s goes into the CamelBak onto my back. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Sleeping kit: Sea to Summit sleeping pad, SOL emergency bivy, and down pants and jacket. Lights: Fenix UC35 + extra batteries. Navigation: combo of a Garmin 530 and eTrex 30x.

Jenny Tough

Highlands + british columbia (canada).

BIKE : Canyon Exceed CF SLX. BAGS : Apidura Backcountry kit. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Smidge and tick tweezers!

Quinda Verheul

Age 34 / rotterdam (the netherlands).

BIKE : The bike I’ll be riding is a Sour full-suspension prototype, which has 120mm travel front and rear. It’s equipped with Fox suspension and Hope components. For the tires, I’m running Schwalbe XC tires. The drivetrain has a 10-52T cassette paired with a 30T chainring. BAGS : I’ll be packing my gear in a Tailfin R&D AeroPack, frame bag, and front roll made custom for the bike. I’ll also have a supply vest from Carrie Gere, and for quick access to snacks, I’m using feed bags from Wit Slingers. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Given the recent ride, a midge net is a must-have! For weather protection, I’ll be wearing an Arc’teryx rain jacket and pants, paired with Sealskinz socks and Black Diamond waterproof overmitts.

Garry Whitehead

Age 46 / bristol (united kingdom).

BIKE : I’ll be trundling around the Highland Trail on my trusty Fairlight Holt equipped with RockShox Ultimate SID fork, custom-built wheels – DT XM481 rims and Hope Pro5 hubs, PNW dropper post, Maxxis Rekon 2.4″ tyres with insert in the rear for those pesky drainage bars. Specialized Mimic saddle. Ergon GP3 grips and SQL inner bar-ends to add a variety of hand positions. BAGS : Mainly Tailfin bags with a Restrap bar bag. I will also be using an Ultimate Direction vest for extra storage. GEAR HIGHLIGHTS : Sleeping kit will comprise of a Nemo Hornet tent, Alpkit Pipedream 200 sleeping bag, and Alpkit Cloudbase mat. Haglofs LIM GTX jacket. Patagonia NanoPuff hoody for night time riding. Exposure Toro on the bike and LedSensor MH10 headtorch to light the way. Garmin Edge 530 for navigation.

Further Reading

Make sure to dig into these related articles for more info...

Rigs of the 2022 Highland Trail 550 (HT550)

Highland Trail 550, Scotland

Rigs of the 2023 Highland Trail 550 (HT550)

Alice Lemkes Wins 2023 Highland Trail 550 Women’s Category

Bikepacking Voices: 2022 Highland Trail 550

Annie Le Becomes First to Complete HT550 in Winter!

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