These days, not enough people are taking the time to experience the outdoors. We are so overwhelmed by constant technology and are glued to our phones and computer screens that the last thing we want to do is go outside, especially on a hike. However, I believe people are missing out on nature, and I strongly encourage you to buy a hiking backpack and go on an adventure!
Comparisons
Below, I have listed the top hiking backpacks found on the market today, that are the most highly regarded. I did not include those that I think you should stay away from, as all those below offer great features and tools you will need while hiking.
Just a fair warning that this is all my personal preferences. As with any tool, something that I might love and that might work for me, may be terrible for you.
When looking for a backpack, it all comes down to what you are going to use it for, and your size and shape.
So as with everything I review and compare, before you buy it, go to the store and try it on first. Even if the best price is online, go try it on, and then go home and purchase it online.
Doing so, will just save you heartache in the future if it isn’t the look and feel you were expecting.
Arc’teryx Bora AR 63
The Arc’teryx Bora AR 63 is a higher-end hiking backpack that you can buy today.
It offers great support, especially for your back, as it comes with a belt that wraps around your waist.
It is extremely comfortable to wear because it is equipped with a revolutionary adjustment system.
Even though it is the most expensive hiking backpack on this list, I think that the adjustment system is the reason it is so comfortable.
This rucksack is perfect for more experienced hikers who want a bag that can withstand harsh conditions, while still being extremely comfortable on long walks.
If you are just a beginner and don’t plan on going on any extreme hikes, I would recommend a cheaper one.
Osprey Atmos 65 AG
This backpack is a bit less expensive than the Arc’teryx Altra 65, and it is also extremely comfortable.
It features a variety of pockets that allow you to stay organized during your hiking trip.
It features an excellent ventilation system, keeping your clothes aired out as well as your food.
It is lighter than most bags on the market, which makes it an added bonus.
However, it cannot support a heavier load as other bags can.
Osprey Xenith 75
Another hiking backpack in the Osprey brand, the Xenith 75, is just a bit more expensive than the Atmos 65.
This knapsack is one of the most comfortable ones I’ve worn, and can also carry heavier loads (as opposed to the Atmos 65).
It has fantastic mesh pockets on both the inside and outside, which are easy to use and store all your hiking equipment.
With that being said, I don’t think it is as well organized as the previous two backpacks because I found it hard to find items that I placed in the top lid pockets (they are too deep).
Gregory Baltoro 65
This bag is averagely priced, pretty much on par with the Osprey Atmos 65 AG.
It is comfortable to wear and can carry heavy loads, more than most of the others on the list I am reviewing.
With the Gregory Baltoro 65, I found it easy to find all my tools because of the external twin zippered pockets. The pockets on the inside are composed of functional and stretchy mesh.
The opening is a large U-shape, which enables you to store multiple items for unlimited smooth access.
It may be heavier than most rucksacks, but this all depends on how much you store in it at the end of the day.
I did find that the supportive foam built on the back took a little time to break in, so don’t be scared if it is too stiff at first.
North Face Banchee 65
This hiking backpack is one of the cheapest out of all the ones I have been reviewing today.
It is comfortable, especially for wearing over long periods of time, because of how lightweight it is.
This backpack has been well thought out because the pockets have all been made with a clear purpose in mind. All the pockets are great, except for the external lid pocket, because I found that one difficult to manage and find the things I was looking for.
It comes with a hip belt adjustment that is easy to use and maximizes the amount of comfort.
The North Face Banchee 65 is a great hiking bag if you aren’t going on a long trip and need something that is comfortable, you can hold a lot of items, and that is extremely lightweight.
Conclusion
With my hiking backpack comparison above, I have chosen what I believe to be the five best-hiking backpacks on the market today.
Though, there are two clear winners when comparing one against the others.
For more advanced hikers, who are thinking about going on longer adventures in the outdoors, I highly recommend buying the Arc’teryx Bora AR 63. Even though it is the most expensive, this has been made for people who take hiking seriously, and know that they need to fill their rucksack with all the essentials required for hiking.
On the other side of the spectrum, if you are just a beginner starting out hiking, and only planning on going on day trips, I recommend buying the North Face Banchee 65. This backpack is the least expensive on the list, and I don’t want you spending money on an expensive bag when you aren’t even sure you like hiking yet. Also, it is light and very comfortable.
