Best Hiking Backpacks

Hiking has shown benefits such as improving balance, strengthening bones, aiding in respiratory health, and even a lowered risk of depression. If you’re new to hiking, you probably want to know which backpack is best.

There are so many features on this vital piece of gear it can be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve broken down what to look for in a hiking backpack. I’ve also hand-selected my top picks for the best hiking backpacks.

If you’re getting gear for the first time or replacing some old pieces, check out my list of the best backpacking tents and best camping hammocks to pack along with your bag. Now, onto the best hiking backpacks!

Why a Hiking Backpack is Important

If you’re new to hiking and backpacking, you might be considering an old backpack you already own in which to stow your gear.

Both hiking backpacks and ultralight backpacks are fitted to hikers for long trips with more comfort than an old-school rucksack—and by that, I mean actual school. Your JanSport is not ideal for hiking.

Hiking backpacks have broader, more padded shoulder straps as well as frames to distribute the weight from your shoulders and upper back onto your hip area.

How to Choose a Hiking Backpack/Features to Look for in Hiking Backpacks

Ultralight backpacks Vs. standard hiking backpacks

An ultralight backpack might be ideal for you if you’re trying to shave down the weight of everything. However, hiking gear is so light now compared to a decade ago that your pack’s base weight will probably be relatively light if all of your equipment is new and you don’t overpack.

Compared to decades past, most hiking backpacks are relatively lightweight. If you expressly opt for an “ultralight backpack,” then you might be forgoing a few features just to cut down one or two pounds.

What size hiking backpack do I need? Capacity counts

Capacity is one of the most critical features to decide on when picking a hiking backpack. The capacity of hiking and ultralight backpacks goes by liters (L), and there are three main categories of sizes: weekend, multi-day, and extended trip.

There are varying sizes within each of these categories but hiking backpacks will typically fit the items needed for trips of this length within these sizes.

You don’t want to pick an ultralight backpack that is too small if you are hiking for a full week or need to carry things for your kids. Likewise, you don’t want to purchase a pack that is far too big, or that encourages you to pack items you don’t need that will just weigh you down.

Weekend trips will often work with a 30 to 50L pack. If you only plan to do day hikes or need your bag for one or two nights, this could be a decent option.

You won’t be able to fit a lot of extras in weekend trip hiking backpacks, but if you know for sure you will never go longer than a couple of days, this size could be perfect for you.

A multi-day pack is better for packing some layers and extra food. A multi-day backpack is generally between 50 and 70L. Most standard hiking backpacks will fall in this range, and this is often a suitable size for most people.

Anything above 70L falls in the extended or expedition trip pack category. An extended trip pack is best for those who need to haul lots of gear. Expedition or extended trips hiking backpacks are only something to consider if you have kids and need to carry all of their items in your pack along with extra food.

Picking your frame type

There are two primary types of frames in hiking backpacks: internal and external.

The frame of an ultralight backpack is to help transfer weight from the shoulder straps down to the hip belt area, making for a more comfortable hike. Internal are lighter and usually more comfortable. More substantial internal frames will have metal tubing sewn in as a frame to distribute weight to your hips.

Some lighter models of internal frames only have a rigid plastic sheet along the back. These are better for shorter trips, as they will not be as comfortable for long hikes.

External frames used to be the most common frame type. They are heavier and are not as popular now. An outer frame is suitable for individuals who want to clip more items on the poles of the frame or just want a more traditional experience.

Other Features

Closure

You will need to decide if you want top-loading access or side zips on your pack. Top-loading closes at the top and makes it easy to get to items at the top of your backpack, or for someone else to grab something out of the top.

Side zips open the entire side, so it’s best to set your backpack down while opening it. However, side zips make it easy to get anything—even in the middle or bottom of the pack—with ease.

Pockets/Hooks

Pockets are worth paying attention to when picking your hiking backpack, too. It’s smart to make sure your hiking pack has a water bottle pocket at the hip belt area. If you prefer using a CamelBak for water, look for a bag that has a suitable spot for one with a place for tubing.

One often overlooked feature many hikers fail to consider is whether you are going to leave your natural “restroom” waste in nature, or if you plan to pack away a bag to dispose of it elsewhere. If you plan to dispose of it responsibly, you will want a dedicated pocket for this, as well as perhaps a trowel or toilet paper.

Extra features will sometimes add weight to an ultralight backpack, so you need to determine what uses your pack will get. For example, consider whether you need loops for trekking poles or a sleeping bag. Some ultralight backpacks will also have a daisy chain or stretchy straps on the outside on which you can hook gear.

Fit

Getting the right fit with your ultralight backpack is crucial. Much of the sizing of your hiking backpack will depend on torso length. It’s also worth considering a gender-specific pack. Ultralight backpacks for women are not designed only with varying colors—that’s the least of the design differences.

Backpacks for women often have shoulder straps that cut out sooner around the chest area and sometimes have features like more padding in the hip belt, or more adjustment in the hip area.

Preview Best Overall Premium Pick Best Value
Product Name Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack REI Co-op Traverse 65 Pack Field & Stream Mountain Scout 45L Internal Frame Pack
Specifications
  • Weight: 3 lbs. 3 oz.
  • Capacity: 50L
  • Price: $100
  • Weight: 4 lbs. 9 oz. – 4 lbs. 13 oz.
  • Capacity: 61 – 69L
  • Price $249
  • Weight: 4 lbs.
  • Capacity: 45L
  • Price: $59.99
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Full range of organization pockets and sleeves
  • Padded shoulder straps and hip belt with sternum strap
  • U-zipper design
  • Hydration sleeve compatible
  • Extremely comfortable and breathable
  • Exceptional suspension and stability
  • Easy-access water bottle pocket
  • Several attachments and pockets
  • Made of recycled, durable materials
  • Budget-friendly
  • Spindrift collar, sternum strap, and padded straps/belt
  • Top-loading compartment with several pockets
  • Adjustable, padded shoulder straps and hip belt
  • Ideal as a weekend pack
Cons
  • Not ideal for extended/long-distance hiking
  • Expensive
  • Limited color options
  • Only one color option
  • Not for large enough for most extended trips
Price $100 at Amazon $249 at REI $60 at Dick's Sporting Goods
See more See the Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack See the REI Co-op Traverse 65 Pack See the Field & Stream Mountain Scout 45L Internal Frame Pack

Filter Backpacks by Category

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  • Editor's Choice

  • Premium Pick

  • Bang for Your Buck

  • Daypack

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  • Women
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  • Carrying Toddlers
  • Camera
  • Carrying Dogs

Women

Osprey Aura AG 65 Women's Backpacking Backpack

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 8/10
  • Material quality: 9/10
  • Shoulder straps: 10/10

Bottom Line

The Osprey Aura AG 65 is what I consider, hands-down, one of the best hiking backpacks for women. Osprey is an outstanding name in hiking packs, to begin with, and this model has comfort to spare.

The padded shoulder straps are cut out earlier than many packs to leave room in the chest area, but you can still secure those straps with the clip across the upper sternum if needed. The wide hip belt has ergonomic padding and can be adjusted with ease while wearing the pack. This feature is excellent for changing the fit and position of the hip belt if it begins to chafe or ride too heavily on one area.

Osprey knows how to make packs for serious hikers, too. This pack has a sleeping bag compartment, zippered hip belt pockets, and a dedicated internal sleeve for a hydration reservoir. There are also side pockets for items like water bottles and a floating top lid. The “anti-gravity” suspension includes a ventilated back panel.

Specs

  • Weight: 4 lbs.
  • Capacity: 65L
  • Price: $269.95

product_pros

Pros Cons
  • Space for multi-day hiking
  • Women-friendly shoulder straps and padded hip belt
  • Quick-adjusting hip belt
  • Several pockets and loops
  • Exceptional quality
  • Expensive
  • Does not include hydration reservoir

Kids

The North Face Terra Youth 55L Internal Frame Pack

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 8/10
  • Material quality: 9/10
  • Shoulder straps: 8/10

Bottom Line

For kids and teens who are grown enough to have their own pack, I think the North Face Terra is one of the best kids’ hiking backpacks. This 55L pack has a comfortable internal frame and enough room to use for a multi-day hike.

The ergonomic hip belt and the padded shoulder harness add to comfort. Side zips make it easy for kids to find what they packed, even in the middle of the bag. Hip belt pockets are ideal for snacks, a phone, or other small items.

The 600-Denier and 1200-Denier polyester work with rip-stop nylon for extreme durability. Kids will like that they can stow quick-grab items in the outer rear pocket, a water bottle on the side, and even have straps for their sleeping bag on the back.

Specs

  • Weight: 4 lbs. 4.2 oz.
  • Capacity: 55L
  • Price: $159.95

product_pros

Pros Cons
  • Durable fabric and construction
  • Hip belt pockets
  • Breathable, padded shoulder straps
  • Comfortable with ample packing room
  • Reliable brand with a lifetime warranty
  • Not ideal for small kids
  • Not the most budget-friendly option for kids

Carrying Toddlers

ClevrPlus Premium Cross Country Baby Backpack Child Carrier

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 5/10
  • Material quality: 6/10
  • Shoulder straps: 9/10

Bottom Line

If you’re a parent on the search for the best hiking backpack for toddlers, the ClevrPlus child carrier is worth checking out. I like that this pack includes a sun and rain canopy (that you can remove) for little ones.

Two side pockets fit water bottles perfectly, and the large back pocket has a reflective strip and is perfect for items like wipes, first aid supplies, or diapers. The metal frame is super lightweight (only 5.5 pounds) and fits kids between nine and 48 months old. This model is a hiking backpack for toddlers around two and under, or little ones who are smaller than average for their age.

The frame also folds flat, which is fantastic when it comes to saving room, as parents know with all of the kid supplies on trips, any extra space helps. This pack also has thick, padded shoulder straps and a robust hip belt to give Mom or Dad more comfort.

Specs

  • Weight: 5.5 pounds
  • Capacity: children up to roughly two years
  • Price: $124.99

product_pros

Pros Cons
  • Sturdy, lightweight metal frame
  • Foldable
  • Removable sun/rain canopy
  • Padded shoulder straps
  • Extra thick hip belt
  • Not for toddlers much older than two
  • Limited color options

Camera

Lowepro Photo Sport 200 AW II Outdoor Sport Backpack for Cameras

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 5/10
  • Material quality: 9/10
  • Shoulder straps: 7/10

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for the best backpack for carrying a camera while hiking, the Lowepro Photo Sport 200 AW II is excellent. You can fit snacks, a jacket, a tripod—even a bike helmet—in with a Mirrorless or DSLR camera with an attached lens.

A cinch cord helps keep your camera bounce-free while hiking. The all-weather safely keeps your camera from rain and snow. Attachments for things like trekking poles and carabiners allow you to use this pack for full-day hikes. This bag even has a sleeve for a 2L hydration reservoir (not included).

Specs

  • Weight: 2.64 lbs.
  • Capacity: 6.3 x 3.53 x 8.15 inches
  • Price: $116.97

product_pros

Pros Cons
  • Weatherproof fabric
  • Shock-absorbing compartment for cameras
  • Fits DSLR cameras like the Canon Rebel T5I
  • Several attachment points
  • Compatible with 2L hydration reservoirs
  • Not compatible with the Canon EOS 1D/1Ds/1Dx Mark II, Sony Alpha A850/A900, and Nikon D4/D4s/D5
  • Not ideal for multi-day hikes

Carrying Dogs

K9 Sport Sack Dog Carrier Backpack for Pets

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 10/10
  • Material quality: 6/10
  • Shoulder straps: 7/10

Bottom Line

If you need a light daypack for carrying a dog that can’t quite endure a long hike, I found the K9 Sport dog carrier to be one of the best hiking backpacks for dogs. This pack allows your pup to face forward and ride on your back, much like a piggy-back ride.

I like the amount of thoughtful design that went into this lightweight hiking backpack for dogs. There are several safety features, such as a collar enclosure, sizing cinch straps, side vents, and temperature regulation fabric, as well as a safety clip.

There is also a detachable dog hood in case of rain. You also get a removable storage bag to keep supplies for your pooch or yourself with you during a hike.

This pack comes in several sizes and colors, but the best for hiking are the Air Plus and the Rover. The padded shoulder straps and thick hip belt help you stay comfortable.

Specs

  • Weight: 1.5 pounds
  • Capacity: small fits dogs up to 30 pounds, XX-L fits dogs 80 pounds and under
  • Price: $74.95 – $179.95

product_pros

Pros Cons
  • Several safety features
  • Lots of sizes and color options
  • Padded back panel with airflow
  • Includes a hydro port
  • Stitching could be better
  • Larger sizes are a bit pricey

Editor's Choice

Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 7/10
  • Material quality: 9/10
  • Shoulder straps: 7/10

Bottom Line

Kelty is a fantastic name in hiking gear, which is part of why I picked this as the best overall hiking backpack. This is also one of the best lightweight hiking backpacks, in my opinion, at only 3 lbs. 3 oz. For those who know how to pack light or want a hiking pack for shorter/weekend trips.

This pack blends functionality with simple, practical design. You get the main compartment with an internal sleeve for a hydration reservoir, a large front pocket, zipped side pockets, and a front stash compartment. A daisy chain and ice-ax attachment are built-in, as well.

The interior has plenty of organization sleeves for everything from maps, flashlights, and snack bars to your phone and first aid supplies. The full-access U-zip gives you top-loading capability with more room to grab things even at the bottom of the bag. Overall, this pack blends the bells and whistles with an ideal mid-range size and a very affordable price.

Specs

  • Weight: 3 lbs. 3 oz.
  • Capacity: 50L
  • Price: $100
Pros Cons
  • Affordable
  • Full range of organization pockets and sleeves
  • Padded shoulder straps and hip belt with sternum strap
  • U-zipper design
  • Hydration sleeve compatible
  • Not ideal for extended/long-distance hiking

Premium Pick

REI Co-op Traverse 65 Pack

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 8/10
  • Material quality: 8/10
  • Shoulder straps: 9/10

Bottom Line

There are a lot of higher-end hiking backpacks to choose from, but the REI Co-op Traverse is one of my favorites. REI makes fantastic hiking packs, and this 61 to 69L (available in three sizes) is suitable for multi-day trips or shorter weekend hikes.

The trampoline back panel is not something you see on every backpack and helps with both comfort and breathability to maintain your cool. The contoured hip belt also has “ActivMotion” tech to allow the belt to pivot on its own—keeping you more centered on uneven terrain. If you want separated pockets, you get them here; 11 to be exact, not including the main compartment.

For eco-conscious hikers, this pack is made of recycled 200-denier rip-stop nylon. You also get upper tool keepers, hiking pole attachments, and an integrated rain guard. This listing is for the women’s version, but I also consider this one of the best hiking backpacks for men in the Co-op Traverse 70.

Specs

  • Weight: 4 lbs. 9 oz. – 4 lbs. 13 oz.
  • Capacity: 61 – 69L
  • Price $249
Pros Cons
  • Extremely comfortable and breathable
  • Exceptional suspension and stability
  • Easy-access water bottle pocket
  • Several attachments and pockets
  • Made of recycled, durable materials
  • Expensive
  • Limited color options

Bang for Your Buck

Field & Stream Mountain Scout 45L Internal Frame Pack

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 6/10
  • Material quality: 7/10
  • Shoulder straps: 8/10

Bottom Line

If you need the best hiking backpack for a tight budget, take a look at the Field & Stream Mountain Scout 45L. Compared to some of the more expensive hiking backpacks, this bag runs a couple of hundred dollars less and maintains very decent quality.

The 45L capacity is ample for a weekend trip, and there is a hydration reservoir-compatible pocket inside. In this compact backpack, you get a sleeping bag compartment, external zippered pockets, and loops to attach smaller items.

There are two removable stay aids to shift weight to the hips, compression straps at the side and bottom, mesh water bottle pockets on the sides. This bag is an exceptionally comfortable hiking backpack for day trips and weekend hikes at a reasonable price.

Specs

  • Weight: 4 lbs.
  • Capacity: 45L
  • Price: $59.99
Pros Cons
  • Budget-friendly
  • Spindrift collar, sternum strap, and padded straps/belt
  • Top-loading compartment with several pockets
  • Adjustable, padded shoulder straps and hip belt
  • Ideal as a weekend pack
  • Only one color option
  • Not for large enough for most extended trips

Daypack

Coleman Soft Backpack Cooler

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 5/10
  • Material quality: 9/10
  • Shoulder straps: 7/10

Bottom Line

If you’re headed out for a short hike and just need to bring some water, snacks, and minimal first aid supplies with you, the Coleman Soft Backpack Cooler is an option to consider. This backpack is the size of the style you probably wore in school but has padded shoulder straps and a hip belt to distribute weight.

You can use the insulated main compartment as a traditional backpack or with keeping food and drinks cold. A large outer pocket works well for small first-aid supplies, moleskin, your phone, and other smaller items. The daisy chain elastic on the back can be used with carabiners to connect different things.

This pack has a capacity that can hold up to 28 cans if you choose to use it solely for beverages. The heat-welded seams prevent leaks, and the lining is mold and mildew resistant, making it a fantastic backpack for trips to the beach, also. This cooler/hiking backpack is not for a hike that will take you several days, but for a daypack, short trips, or using it as a cooler, it’s excellent.

Specs

  • Weight: 1.06 lbs.
  • Capacity: 28 cans, standard backpack interior
  • Price: $29.99
Pros Cons
  • Anti-microbial, mold and mildew resistant
  • Adjustable hip belt
  • Can be used as a cooler or backpack
  • Side mesh pockets for phone and other items
  • Affordable
  • Not super breathable
  • Not ideal for multi-day hiking trips

Long Distance

High Sierra Pathway 90L Hiking Frame Pack

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 10/10
  • Material quality: 7/10
  • Shoulder straps: 9/10

Bottom Line

One of the best hiking backpacks for long-distance, in my opinion, is the High Sierra Pathway 90L pack. This model is not for simple day trips or a quick weekend hike. With the 90L capacity, you have room for all the essentials of an extended hike, though.

The shoulder straps are adjustable to torso length, are non-slip, and have a cross-sternum clip. This pack has a trekking pole attachment, too—fantastic for long hikes. One large main compartment complements several outer and side pockets, a mesh water bottle holder, and sleeping bag/tent loops.

The hiking backpack isn’t the very top-of-the-line, premium quality, but it works well and is a reasonable price for the amount of capacity and features you get. I found the quality to be perfectly suitable for some longer hikes and even for traveling as carry-on luggage.

Specs

  • Weight: 4.6 lbs.
  • Capacity: 90L
  • Price: $119.99
Pros Cons
  • Huge 90L capacity
  • Adjustable, non-slip shoulder straps
  • Several pockets and loops
  • Trekking pole attachment
  • Water-resistant fabric
  • No rain cover
  • Placement of pockets could use better design

Back Pain

Osprey Packs Stratos 36 Hiking Backpack

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 6/10
  • Material quality: 9/10
  • Shoulder straps: 10/10

Bottom Line

If you have back pain but still love hiking, you need to find one of the best hiking backpacks for back pain. I love Osprey packs for hiking, and the Stratos 36 is my favorite for back issues.

This pack is not ideal for excessive amounts of gear, but let’s be honest, if you have back pain you shouldn’t be overloading your bag anyway. This backpack is excellent for back pain thanks to “airspeed” suspension and adjustable torso length to accommodate the upper back and posture, too.

The padded hip belt has zippered pockets, and the trekking pole attachment is ideal for bringing those poles to alleviate some pressure from your back. There is also room for an internal hydration sleeve (sold separately), a sleeping bag compartment, and an integrated rain cover.

Specs

  • Weight: 3.5 lbs.
  • Capacity: varies (two sizes)
  • Price: $168.24 – $194.65
Pros Cons
  • Adjustable torso length
  • Quality suspension for weight transference
  • Rain cover and several pockets/compartments
  • Attachment for hiking poles
  • Five color options in two different sizes
  • Capacity varies depending on size
  • Does not include hydration reservoir

Women

Osprey Aura AG 65 Women's Backpacking Backpack

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 8/10
  • Material quality: 9/10
  • Shoulder straps: 10/10

Bottom Line

The Osprey Aura AG 65 is what I consider, hands-down, one of the best hiking backpacks for women. Osprey is an outstanding name in hiking packs, to begin with, and this model has comfort to spare.

The padded shoulder straps are cut out earlier than many packs to leave room in the chest area, but you can still secure those straps with the clip across the upper sternum if needed. The wide hip belt has ergonomic padding and can be adjusted with ease while wearing the pack. This feature is excellent for changing the fit and position of the hip belt if it begins to chafe or ride too heavily on one area.

Osprey knows how to make packs for serious hikers, too. This pack has a sleeping bag compartment, zippered hip belt pockets, and a dedicated internal sleeve for a hydration reservoir. There are also side pockets for items like water bottles and a floating top lid. The “anti-gravity” suspension includes a ventilated back panel.

Specs

  • Weight: 4 lbs.
  • Capacity: 65L
  • Price: $269.95
Pros Cons
  • Space for multi-day hiking
  • Women-friendly shoulder straps and padded hip belt
  • Quick-adjusting hip belt
  • Several pockets and loops
  • Exceptional quality
  • Expensive
  • Does not include hydration reservoir

Kids

The North Face Terra Youth 55L Internal Frame Pack

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 8/10
  • Material quality: 9/10
  • Shoulder straps: 8/10

Bottom Line

For kids and teens who are grown enough to have their own pack, I think the North Face Terra is one of the best kids’ hiking backpacks. This 55L pack has a comfortable internal frame and enough room to use for a multi-day hike.

The ergonomic hip belt and the padded shoulder harness add to comfort. Side zips make it easy for kids to find what they packed, even in the middle of the bag. Hip belt pockets are ideal for snacks, a phone, or other small items.

The 600-Denier and 1200-Denier polyester work with rip-stop nylon for extreme durability. Kids will like that they can stow quick-grab items in the outer rear pocket, a water bottle on the side, and even have straps for their sleeping bag on the back.

Specs

  • Weight: 4 lbs. 4.2 oz.
  • Capacity: 55L
  • Price: $159.95
Pros Cons
  • Durable fabric and construction
  • Hip belt pockets
  • Breathable, padded shoulder straps
  • Comfortable with ample packing room
  • Reliable brand with a lifetime warranty
  • Not ideal for small kids
  • Not the most budget-friendly option for kids

Carrying Toddlers

ClevrPlus Premium Cross Country Baby Backpack Child Carrier

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 5/10
  • Material quality: 6/10
  • Shoulder straps: 9/10

Bottom Line

If you’re a parent on the search for the best hiking backpack for toddlers, the ClevrPlus child carrier is worth checking out. I like that this pack includes a sun and rain canopy (that you can remove) for little ones.

Two side pockets fit water bottles perfectly, and the large back pocket has a reflective strip and is perfect for items like wipes, first aid supplies, or diapers. The metal frame is super lightweight (only 5.5 pounds) and fits kids between nine and 48 months old. This model is a hiking backpack for toddlers around two and under, or little ones who are smaller than average for their age.

The frame also folds flat, which is fantastic when it comes to saving room, as parents know with all of the kid supplies on trips, any extra space helps. This pack also has thick, padded shoulder straps and a robust hip belt to give Mom or Dad more comfort.

Specs

  • Weight: 5.5 pounds
  • Capacity: children up to roughly two years
  • Price: $124.99
Pros Cons
  • Sturdy, lightweight metal frame
  • Foldable
  • Removable sun/rain canopy
  • Padded shoulder straps
  • Extra thick hip belt
  • Not for toddlers much older than two
  • Limited color options

Camera

Lowepro Photo Sport 200 AW II Outdoor Sport Backpack for Cameras

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 5/10
  • Material quality: 9/10
  • Shoulder straps: 7/10

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for the best backpack for carrying a camera while hiking, the Lowepro Photo Sport 200 AW II is excellent. You can fit snacks, a jacket, a tripod—even a bike helmet—in with a Mirrorless or DSLR camera with an attached lens.

A cinch cord helps keep your camera bounce-free while hiking. The all-weather safely keeps your camera from rain and snow. Attachments for things like trekking poles and carabiners allow you to use this pack for full-day hikes. This bag even has a sleeve for a 2L hydration reservoir (not included).

Specs

  • Weight: 2.64 lbs.
  • Capacity: 6.3 x 3.53 x 8.15 inches
  • Price: $116.97
Pros Cons
  • Weatherproof fabric
  • Shock-absorbing compartment for cameras
  • Fits DSLR cameras like the Canon Rebel T5I
  • Several attachment points
  • Compatible with 2L hydration reservoirs
  • Not compatible with the Canon EOS 1D/1Ds/1Dx Mark II, Sony Alpha A850/A900, and Nikon D4/D4s/D5
  • Not ideal for multi-day hikes

Carrying Dogs

K9 Sport Sack Dog Carrier Backpack for Pets

Ratings

  • Compartment Room: 10/10
  • Material quality: 6/10
  • Shoulder straps: 7/10

Bottom Line

If you need a light daypack for carrying a dog that can’t quite endure a long hike, I found the K9 Sport dog carrier to be one of the best hiking backpacks for dogs. This pack allows your pup to face forward and ride on your back, much like a piggy-back ride.

I like the amount of thoughtful design that went into this lightweight hiking backpack for dogs. There are several safety features, such as a collar enclosure, sizing cinch straps, side vents, and temperature regulation fabric, as well as a safety clip.

There is also a detachable dog hood in case of rain. You also get a removable storage bag to keep supplies for your pooch or yourself with you during a hike.

This pack comes in several sizes and colors, but the best for hiking are the Air Plus and the Rover. The padded shoulder straps and thick hip belt help you stay comfortable.

Specs

  • Weight: 1.5 pounds
  • Capacity: small fits dogs up to 30 pounds, XX-L fits dogs 80 pounds and under
  • Price: $74.95 – $179.95
Pros Cons
  • Several safety features
  • Lots of sizes and color options
  • Padded back panel with airflow
  • Includes a hydro port
  • Stitching could be better
  • Larger sizes are a bit pricey

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