The best backpacking backpacks to go the distance

The main body of the Atmos AG 65 backpack is made of 210D honeycomb recycled nylon, so it is durable, tear-resistant, and eco-friendly. The Atmos boasts Osprey’s AntiGravity suspension system (that’s what the “AG” stands for), which optimizes weight distribution in a way that maximizes comfort even with heavier loads. It comes in two sizes (S/M and L/XL), so you’ll want to follow Osprey’s measurement guidance provided on their web page, or (better yet) get properly measured at an outdoors store.

Almost everything about the Atmos is designed to provide comfort and easy-to-use organization, which is great when you need to dig through a lot of gear in your pack. Hip belt pockets and side water bottle sleeves make it easy to get snacks and water (of course it also comes with a hydration port for use with a water reservoir). Also useful is the “stow-on-the-go” trekking pole loop, which lets you hang your poles easily from one front strap if you need your hands free. An integrated rain cover tucked into its own compartment on the back is another nice feature. When you need it, simply pull it out and drape it over the pack, then replace it when the rain stops.

Most of the material used in the Atmos is bluesign-approved recycled material, which means the nylon and waterproofing used are from sustaining and environmentally-friendly sources. This commitment to sustainability, combined with the overall quality of the Atmos AG 65, made it the clear winner of the overall best category.

Having said this, however, even this quality pack has a couple of quirks that pop up regularly enough that it seems prudent to call them out. One complaint is that the hip belt pocket zippers are easily opened with one hand, but difficult to close that way. I can attest to this, as well. Another issue some have reported is that the internal metal frame can squeak. Of those that have identified this, most seem to think it’s not a huge deal, but it’s noticeable. Neither of these are critical problems, but something to be aware of.

REI’s Trailbreak 60 is a solidly designed backpack which offers all the essential features one expects from a modern pack, but at an affordable price. And while it’s true that the Trailbreak doesn’t offer too many frills, it’s not exactly stingy on the features it does possess.

The internal frame allows for adjustable torso length, so it can be easily fitted for more than one person. The top-loading main compartment is made of ripstop nylon, and the bottom has a sleeping bag compartment. The hip belt and upper adjustment straps help to lock in a good fit too, while the side water bottle sleeves and hip belt pockets allow for access to tools and water. Some buyers have stated that more pockets would be ideal, but for a starter/value backpack, the Trailbreak 60 still has plenty to offer.

At $149, the Trailbreak 60 is a fantastic backpack for beginners or really frugal backpackers. One of the biggest potential drawbacks is that REI notes that ideal loads are no more than 25 to 35 pounds which, while plenty of weight for most people, may not be sufficient for more heavy-duty trips or long-distance hikes. (I can hear the ultralight backpackers howl in laughter).

Standing on its own merits, the Vaude Astrum Evo appears to be a solid backpacking pack. It has a generous 85L total volume capacity, which is supported by a proprietary suspension system and aluminum internal frame. The main compartment can be accessed by a zipper that opens the pack like a suitcase, so if you need to get to something deep inside, you don’t have to root around a side pocket or pull everything out. Add to that plenty of pockets, an area for a water reservoir, and easy-access storage in the front for maps or rain gear, and this is a well-designed backpack.

But the thing that truly distinguishes this Astrum Evo, and all Vaude products, is the attention it gives to sustainable materials and eco-friendly processes. Fifty percent of the material of the Astrum Evo is recycled, and all Vaude products are “climate neutral.” The company works with the nonprofit “myclimate” organization to offset any emissions that can’t be avoided during production. Add to that its commitment to fair trade, and Vaude really stands out with its commitment to eco-friendly backpacks.

While the Atmos is the best overall backpacking pack, the folks at Osprey shrewdly created the Aura to better fit a woman’s frame. The height is a couple inches shorter and the width a bit more narrow, but the volume capacity is nearly the same (62L/65L vs 65L/68L on the Atmos), and the pack has 11 external pockets and offers top and side access to the main compartment.

The Aura is designed to be every bit as functional and sturdy as the Atmos. With a load range of 30 to 50 pounds, it utilizes the AntiGravity suspension system, which includes the web backing for fantastic ventilation to help keep from getting a sweaty back. It also incorporates similar adjustment straps on the shoulders, hips, and sternum to help dial in a perfect fit.

That said, however, be sure to order the right size, as larger-framed people may find the snug hip belt in particular to be uncomfortably tight and constrictive. In fact, taller or larger-framed people may opt for the Atmos instead. As always, if you have the option, try to get fitted by a trained outfitter. You won’t regret it.

Utah-based Gregory Mountain Products makes large backpacking backpacks as well as lightweight backpacking and day hiking packs, and the Optic 48 settles right in the middle of these worlds. Most experts will tell you that 50L packs are the largest you’d want for a long hike or one to three days of backpacking, and the smallest size you’d want for longer journeys. So if you’re looking for a pack that can do double duty, the Optic 48 may be for you.

The Optic 48 uses Greogry’s Aerospan ventilated suspension system, which incorporates a mesh backing that helps prevent your back from getting sweat-saturated during those long hikes. This “ventilated FocusFoam” is used in the shoulder harness and hip belt as well. It comes with an integrated rain cover, plenty of adjustment straps, three external pockets, and supports use of a water reservoir (not included). Add to that a trekking pole attachment and glasses quickstow system (to hang sunglasses on the front where they’re easily reached), and it’s clear there’s no shortage of features in this pack.

With a maximum carry weight of 30 pounds, there’s plenty of room and capability for a long hike or a couple days of backpacking. One thing that is missing from this class size is the ability to adjust the torso length, a feature more common in 50L-plus packs. The Optic 48 comes in three sizes: S (fits torso 16 to 18 inches), M (fits torso 18 to 20 inches), and L (fits torso 20 to 22 inches). So you definitely want to be careful determining your torso length before purchasing.

For those whose travels take them from trail to train to the airport and back again, the Osprey Farpoint 55 is a versatile lightweight backpacking pack that is as useful on a plane as it is in the backcountry.

Like a smaller backpack, it has lockable zipper sliders that give access to the main compartment. Inside, it’s well-organized with compression straps to keep things in place and a mesh for small or loose items. The exterior has water sleeves on the sides, an exterior pocket, and lash points to attach other items. Note that some have pointed out that the water sleeves are on the smaller side and difficult to use if the Farpoint is crammed full.

Like a regular backpacking pack, it has a hip belt as well as a light, internal frame to help transfer weight and make hiking or traveling more comfortable. It can carry 55L, so it’s the perfect size to disappear into the backcountry for a couple of days. The Farpoint 55 is a great backpack whether your destination is a hotel, hostel, or campsite.