Best backpacking backpacks for 2025 | Tested and reviewed for multi-day hiking

Osprey is synonymous with trekking and backpacking rucksacks (with good reason), and continues to showcase its expertise and innovate with the Exos (men's) and Eja (women's) series. Initially launched in 2009 and revamped in 2014, these models remain popular for their lightweight design and carrying comfort.

Having tested the newest additions, the Exos Pro and Eja Pro 55, launched in late 2023, we were amazed at their ability to balance weight and functionality.

Weighing under 1kg, these packs feature the Airspeed suspended back system and are constructed from ultra-light yet surprisingly durable NanoFly fabric that is also PFC-free. They maintain essential features like adjustable fits and adequate storage, though some pockets and padding are minimised.

On our 230-mile test of the Eja Pro 55 on the Cape Wrath trail, the pack was seriously comfortable, even with a 12.5kg load, and the Airspeed system provides very effective ventilation. The fabrics held up well too.

However, some design choices, like compression straps covering pockets, may inconvenience some users. In pursuit of low weight, the Eja/Exos Pro also lacks a rain cover.

Priced at £240 ($290), the Exos and Eja Pro are undoubtedly top end, but you do get what you pay for here and compete well against similar models like the Deuter Aircontact Ultra. They cater to users seeking a balance between ultralight weight and practical features without sacrificing comfort or durability.

Read our full Osprey Eja Pro 55 review for more, or find the men's version of this bag here.

Lowe Alpine, founded by Greg Lowe, revolutionised rucksack design by introducing the first internally framed rucksack and ergonomically contoured shoulder straps. Mr Lowe was also one of the first to engineer packs designed specifically for women, known as the ‘ND’ range. The Yacuri 65 trekking pack embodies these innovations, available in four volumes with women's versions for each.

It features a sturdy 6mm aluminium alloy perimeter frame, a cushioned harness, padded hipbelt, and adjustable back panel, ensuring comfort and stability. On test, the Yacuri 65 proved to be a robust, functional pack with a spacious main compartment and stable, supportive back system.

We liked how easy it was to access gear thanks to a zippered lower section, floating lid, and U-shaped front zip. Naturally, it’s hydration compatible, and equipped with a raincover, multiple pockets, and external attachment points. Built from durable 330D striped dobby fabric and 500D nylon with a water-repellent finish, it’s designed for hard use and stands up to harsh conditions and treatment.

We found that the back system's adjustability for a fine-tuned, tailored fit, while the hipbelt provides comfort and ventilation. Despite being relatively heavy at nearly 2kg, its performance is commendable, offering good airflow and stability. Though, it's still not as well ventilated as backpacks like the Osprey Eja/Exos with a suspended mesh back system.

Sustainability is a focus, with the main fabric containing 49% recycled fibres and Lowe Alpine being a Fair Wear Foundation member and certified climate neutral. With an RRP of £240, the Yacuri is a premium pack but still offers better value compared to pricier alternatives like the Osprey Atmos AG 65 and Fjallraven Kajka 65.

Read our full Lowe Alpine Yacuri 65 review.

Of all the backpacking backpacks we tested this year, none offered better value for money than the Gregory Stout 55 (men's) and Amber 54 (women's). These are high-quality backpacking rucksacks with an exceptional fit, comfort, and durability, but cost significantly less than most of their rivals.

Gregory’s focus on carrying comfort is evident in the gender-specific fits, adjustable back lengths, and extending hip fins. These packs also offer plus size options with extended shoulder straps and hip belts for larger body shapes.

Both models are available in various volumes, from 34L to 70L, to suit different trip lengths. On test, the Stout 55's robust design stood out to us (it has a perimeter steel alloy frame, fibreglass cross-stay, and HDPE framesheet), and allowed us to comfortably carry loads over 20kg without losing its shape. Made from tough 210D and 420D nylon with a PFC-free water-repellent finish, these packs ensure longevity and protection against the elements.

Key features include the aforementioned adjustable back lengths (VersaFit); generously padded harnesses and padded hip belts with large zippered pockets; and a hydration sleeve compatible with various reservoirs.

This is a top-loader pack but we were happy to see a U-shaped front zip is also fitted, plus a separate bottom compartment, and numerous external pockets. This makes accessing gear extremely easy.

Performance-wise, the Stout 55 and Amber 54 are stable and supportive, making them ideal for multi-day hikes. Though slightly heavier than some competitors, and not as well ventilated as packs with suspended mesh back systems, their durability and carrying comfort are top-notch.

**Read our full Gregory Stout 55 review for more and check out the women's version here.
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The Fjällräven Kajka trekking backpack stands as a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to quality and functionality, despite its rise in outdoor fashion, and showcases the brand's dedication to leisurely, long-distance trekking.

Instead of a traditional aluminium frame, Fjällräven uses birch wood, which boasts a carbon footprint 90% lower than its aluminium counterparts. The use of wood, along with tough, chunky materials and components doesn't do much for weight saving though. At 2.9kg the 55-litre version we tested was at least 500g heavier than most of its rivals.

Despite its weight, the Kajka is brilliantly comfortable, especially with heavy loads. The generously padded back system prioritises comfort over ventilation, which comes back to the focus of trekking at an easy pace.

The other benefit of a heavy duty construction is true longevity. The Kajka is a pack you only need to buy once. That's a big plus point for sustainability too, in addition to the use of recycled materials and being PFC/PFAS-free.

Storage-wise, the Kajka offers ample space with a main compartment accessible via a top drawcord or a front U-shaped zip. Thoughtful features like hipbelt pockets and external side pockets enhance usability, while attachment points allow for more gear and additional accessories.

While its price tag may be eye-popping, the Kajka's performance, features, and longevity go a long way justifying the investment (it's an investment, not just a purchase) for those seeking a high-quality trekking companion. However, budget-conscious consumers can definitely find alternatives at lower price points.

Read our full Fjällräven Kajka 55 review.

While bigger brands remain wedded to traditional backpack styles and designs, Atom Packs is a market disruptor with a far more cutting-edge, forward-thinking approach.

Giving a British twist to the US ‘thru-hiking’ movement, the Keswick-based cottage business makes ultralight, highly customisable backpacks with well-thought-out features, tailored sizing options, and a fine balance between weight, durability, comfort and structure.

The off-the-shelf Atom+ EP50 weighs just 675g. It delivers a close-to-the-body carrying experience that’s so comfy and light-touch you almost forget it’s on. Load transfer is good, courtesy of the removable carbon fibre hooped frame (55g) and foam pad (15g). The materials used (EcoPak EPX200, 210-denier Robic Extreema, Dyneema mesh and 500-denier textured nylon) feel tough enough for extended trail abuse, despite being light.

Our favourite features are the shoulder strap bottle pockets, on-the-move accessible side pockets, and huge stretchy stuff pockets.

However, the price is rather high and the ultralight construction isn’t suited to heavier loads over 13.5kg. Some will prefer more stiffness and structure to the back system. Ventilation isn’t particularly strong either. Small batch production also means you may experience wait times for your order to be dispatched.

Read our full Atom Packs The Atom+ EP50 review for more.

The Exped Lightning 60 is an unusual beast: a minimalist pack absolutely covered in gear attachment options. With its stripped-back 1,220g build and rolltop design, it’ll appeal to wild campers and long-distance hikers who want flexibility without the weight of unnecessary extras.

There’s no lid, front stash pocket or shoulder strap storage – but in return you get a clean silhouette and a forest of daisy chains, zig-zag compression straps and gear loops to rig up everything from mats to poles.

It’s especially handy for awkward loads or more technical kit. The 60L capacity sits in that sweet spot for multi-day hikes, and the women’s version offers a tailored fit too.

The back system is the real love-it-or-hate-it feature. It uses a T-shaped aluminium frame with two main contact points, creating a kind of ‘floating’ suspension. For some it’ll feel ventilated and supportive; others may find it lumpy or awkward, especially on first use. It’s adjustable, though, so you can dial in the fit.

If you want plush comfort or a classic design, this isn’t the one. But if you’re after a solid, weather-resistant pack that lets you carry your way, the Lightning 60 brings something different to the table.

Read our full Exped Lightning 60 review for more or find the women's version here.

The Osprey Aether 55 is a true beast of burden, built for carrying big loads in comfort, if you can handle the weight of the pack itself. Tipping the scales at 2.18kg, it’s the heaviest backpack in our roundup by a long shot. But that heft buys you a supremely stable carry, a long list of features, and a design made for multi-day epics with a heavy kit list.

The AirScape back system combines a moulded framesheet, foam cutouts, and mesh to deliver a close-to-body fit with decent ventilation and excellent load transfer. It’s adjustable on the go, and the wide hipbelt does a great job of shifting weight to your hips. While it’s not the softest or most ventilated carry, it’s incredibly solid with loads up to 27kg.

Where the Aether really stands out is in its features. There’s a floating lid with twin pockets, a reinforced stash pocket, side bottle pockets with on-the-go access, roomy hipbelt pockets, ice axe loops, a hydration sleeve, and a separate sleeping bag compartment. The durable 420D fabric feels bombproof, and the included rain cover adds a final layer of all-weather utility.

This isn’t a sleek, fast-and-light pack like the Atom or Lightning – it’s a gear-hauling machine for long routes, tough terrain, and heavier base weights. If you’re going big, the Aether’s got your back. Literally.

Read our full Osprey Aether 55 review for more or find the women's version here.

With a brilliant balance of comfort, load-hauling power and practical features, the Gregory Paragon 50 stands out as a superb midweight backpacking pack – especially for those prioritising carry comfort over cutting grams.

We were particularly impressed by the back system. Gregory’s attention to detail is clear in the contoured hipbelt, plush shoulder straps and breathable AirCushion back panel – all working together to offer a stable, close-to-body fit. It’s designed to handle loads up to 23kg, and while we wouldn’t max that out, it definitely copes well with heavier multi-day setups.

At 1.5kg, it’s not featherlight, and it might feel a bit overbuilt for minimalist hikers. But in return, you get excellent features: a full-length side zip for easy access, a stash of well-placed pockets (including a clever angled bottle sleeve), a raincover and dual compartments with a sleeping bag divider.

This is a pack that feels dialled-in and considered. The adjustable back length is easy to tweak, and the 50L capacity hits the sweet spot for weekend wild camps without encouraging overpacking. It’s not the cheapest option, but we reckon the comfort and versatility more than justify the price.

Read our full Gregory Paragon 50 review for more detail or check out the women's version here.

Proof that you don’t need to drop hundreds to get a functional, feature-packed rucksack, the Highlander Novar 60+5L is a true budget-friendly gem. At just £99.99, this pack delivers way more than we expected at the price – ideal for newcomers to wild camping or those who want maximum litre-for-pound value.

It’s not a lightweight by any stretch – 2kg is hefty – and you’re not getting premium-grade build quality here. But there’s a real sense of solid functionality: tons of pockets, an integrated raincover, hydration compatibility, and a back system that adjusts to different torso lengths. The harness feels nicely padded, too, making it more comfortable than we anticipated for a budget model.

On the downside, the aluminium stays feel a bit stiff and there’s very little ventilation – so it’s not our first choice for hotter hikes or week-long treks. Still, for shorter trips and more casual backpackers, it covers the essentials without fuss. The adjustable sizing system is easy to tweak, and the ample 65L volume means it’ll swallow a full camping load.

If your priority is saving money while still getting something trail-ready, the Novar’s a no-brainer. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done.

If you’re aiming for ultralight, the Beta Light 45 is Black Diamond’s lean, mean answer to the thru-hiking crowd. At just 890g, it still manages to cram in 45 litres of volume, making it a fantastic companion for weight-conscious long-distance hikes like the Cape Wrath Trail or Pennine Way.

We found the carry experience to be impressively comfortable for such a stripped-back pack. The shoulder harness is reminiscent of a running vest, hugging the torso with a close, athletic feel that’s surprisingly agile and confidence-inspiring on technical trails. There’s very little in the way of structure or ventilation though, and anyone used to heftier, more supportive packs might find it lacking in stability.

That said, we really enjoyed the simplicity. The Power Mesh stash pocket is massive and genuinely useful, and the hipbelt and shoulder strap pockets offer decent on-the-go storage. The whole thing is crafted from Ultra 200 fabric, which feels premium, tough and water-resistant enough to shrug off a Highland downpour.

It’s far from cheap – and not quite the lightest ultralight pack out there – but if you’re a minimalist at heart and want a fast, streamlined ride with just enough capacity for multi-day adventures, this sleek machine is worth a look.

If you’re looking to save weight on your next long walk but aren’t quite sold on a minimalist or fully frameless pack, the Aircontact Ultra is a great option. It has a good volume-to-weight ratio but doesn’t sacrifice too many features or carrying comfort.

It’s a classic top-loading design with a floating lid and plenty of external pockets, plus a padded mesh back panel with lumbar support and a wide hip belt. It is braced with a perimeter wire frame and plastic framesheet, providing rigidity and structure. Deuter claims this design ‘traces the curvature of the spine and hips, allowing a 70 per cent load transfer to the hip belt’.

We found that's true to a point. For loads up to about 12kg it carries well, but the shoulder straps aren’t as plush as what we experienced on many of the other backpacking rucksack we tested. That said, they still have a bit of padding and are nicely sculpted. We also liked that the harness moves with your torso rather than feeling like it’s pulling against you.

The main compartment is easy to load, with zigzag side compression straps to cinch in the load. In terms of durability, the main body fabrics are surprisingly tough and performed well on our 268-mile Pennine Way test hike, though the stretch-mesh front and side pockets are vulnerable to snags.

For beating the averages on longer trails like the Pennine Way or the Coast-to-Coast, this streamlined pack would be an agile companion. It's also got good eco credentials.

**Read our full Deuter Aircontact Ultra 50+5 review for more and see the women's version here.
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Arizona-based brand Near Zero takes a unique approach to its overnight pack design. Instead of aiming for the highly technical pack, The Dean 55L is unapologetically simplistic, but not in the sense of being stripped down and basic.

Rather, Near Zero has come up with a novel idea of compartmentalising the main internal compartment, even labelling the compartments so it's easier to pack your gear. The idea, Near Zero says, is to make it easier for keen but new hikers to pack properly for their backpacking adventures.

We've tried The Dean 55L and a Near Zero gear bundle and were mighty impressed with both. Sticking with the pack, it's a comfortable and breathable design, and sits quite close to your back so it' remains stable when the terrain isn't.

It's good value too (not cheap but good value) thanks to the combination of thoughtful, useable internal space, comfort, and quality.

Read our full Near Zero The Dean 55L Backpack review for more.

Grangers' effective and eco-friendly care kit for outdoor gear such as packs and tents. The cleaner is self-explanatory, but the Tent And Gear Repel UV revitalises equipment's water-repellent coating and adds some UV protection. The kit even comes with a sponge to help apply the cleaner solution. The Cleaner and Repel are available to buy individually too.

Nikwax's gear care kit is just as good as the Grangers kit and also water-based and PFC-free. SolarWash and SolarProof are available to buy individually.