“With a decent pack on your back, there’s nowhere you can’t go…”
In recent years, walking, or hiking as it is often referred to (thanks to our friends from across the pond) has seen an unprecedented surge in popularity, with the Telegraph even referring to it as “the peak of chic” and predicting it will overtake yoga as the number one fitness activity this year.
It’s easy to see why the masses are now getting involved in this most basic of pastimes. For example, it’s easy to get involved, it’s free to participate in and the country is littered with parks, trails and woodland in which to carry out your new found hobby.
So, if you’re thinking of making walking or hiking your latest fad, or if you’re already a seasoned pro, there are a number of things you may want to consider buying, in order to get the most out of your experience.
Having a decent backpack is almost critical, especially if you’re going to be embarking on long walks – as you’ll need to carry things such as water, spare equipment and clothing, plenty of food, a first aid kit, navigation tools and more.
Quick Look: Best Walking Backpacks
- Neekfox Lightweight Packable Travel Hiking Backpack
- Osprey Talon 33 Hiking Pack
- Highlander 45 Discovery Rucksack
- G4 Free Hydration Pack
- Berghaus Wilderness 60+15 Rucksack
- Salomon Unisex Trail 20 Running / Hiking Backpack
- Teton Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack
- Kalidi 40L Military Tactical Backpack with USB Port
- Mooedcoe 75L Hiking Backpack
- G4Free Unisex Ultra Lightweight Foldable Backpack
With the market for the best walking backpacks being somewhat saturated, you may feel like there are far too many options to choose from. – but that’s where Raw Outdoorz come in.
We’ve tested a large number of backpacks and rucksacks and brought you a comprehensive list of the best hiking backpacks currently available. So let’s dive straight in…
- Super lightweight, foldable design makes it easy to transport.
- Generous 35L capacity for all your hiking essentials.
- Smooth zips that won’t catch or snag.
- Reinforced stress points make it easier to carry heavier loads.
- Multiple spacious compartments.
- The only thing that’s missing is a waist strap.
Taking pride of place at the top of our list of the best hiking backpacks is the Lightweight Packable Travel Hiking Backpack from Neekfox.
Available in eight colours, from black, to pink with oranges and blues in between, it’s range of features is extensive to say the least. Firstly, the main USP of this bag is that although it boasts a spacious 35 litre capacity, it weighs just 0.91lb and can be folded to a size of less than 10×10 inches.
Despite it’s incredibly lightweight and versatile design, this bag cements its place as the best walking backpack due to the fact it doesn’t compromise in any other areas. For example, it comes with a max capacity weight of 44lbs and also has reinforced stress points for added durability.
When you throw into the mix the padded mesh straps, ultra-smooth zips and a water resistant design – the result is the best hiking backpack of 2020.
Features
- Capacity: 35L.
- Weight: 0.91lbs.
- Max Capacity Weight: 44lbs.
- Unfolded Dimensions: 20.86x12.6x9”
- Folded Dimensions: 9.8x8.66x1”
- Water resistant
- Padded shoulder strap
- Chest strap
- Reinforced stress points
- Five different colour variants.
- Generous 33L capacity.
- Seamless lumbar to hipbelt body wrap.
- Adjustable torso length.
- External hydration access.
- Hip belt could be considered a little small.
Just being pipped to the post in our rundown of the best walking backpacks is the Talon 33 Hiking Pack, by Osprey.
A well renowned brand in all things outdoors, Osprey have been producing top quality backpacks for the best part of 45 years – and it is for good reason that the Talon 33 ranks so highly on our list. Crafted from durable fabrics, it has a lightweight peripheral frame and an adjustable torso length, making it perfect for people of all shapes and sizes.
It also comes with a mesh covered foam back panel and a hip belt body wrap for even more comfort and stress relief. To top it off, there are an array of zipped compartments and even an extremely handy trekking pole attachment.
Features
- Capacity: 33L
- Weight: 0.92kg
- Max Capacity Weight: 30lbs
- Dimensions: 24x12x11”
- Water resistant
- Fixed top lid
- Waist strap
- Large stretch mesh front panel pocket
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Four different colour variants.
- Huge 45L capacity.
- Excellent weight distribution.
- Plenty of compartments both inside and out.
- Two external bottle holders to help with hydration.
- Can sometimes lose shape under heavy loads.
Sneaking into a podium finish is the Highlander 45 Discovery Rucksack. As the name suggests, this bag has a colossal 45 litre capacity, making it more suited to those longer hikes and even overnight camping trips.
As you’d expect with a bag of this size, comfort and support is imperative – and the padded air mesh back system along with the padded hip and chest belts go a long way to guaranteeing this.
Practicality is also key, which is why you’ll also receive an integrated waterproof cover, to ensure all your belongings and essentials stay dry and safe.
Features
- Capacity: 45L
- Weight: 1.45kg
- Dimensions: 68x29x23cm
- Air mesh back system
- Multiple attachment points
- Walking pole attachments
- Integrated rain cover
- Large main compartment
- Side billows pockets
- Lightweight design makes it perfect for walking, cycling or even skiing.
- Integrated water bladder means you don’t need to carry bottles or flasks.
- Wide shoulder straps
- Multiple colour options
- Water bladder is not insulated so is only suitable for cold drinks
As the picture suggests, this backpack is definitely on the smaller side, yet it still has its perks – which is why it makes it into the number four spot in our list of the best walking backpacks.
With a capacity of 15L, this backpack is better suited to shorter walks and hikes where you don’t have too much to carry – you certainly won’t get a spare pair of boots in here.
What you do get however, is a large 3L water bladder that is integrated into the backpack, negating the need for you to carry bottles and flasks.
Other features include multiple zipped compartments, an adjustable waist strap and a range of colour options – including camouflage.
Features
- Capacity: 15L
- Weight: 798g
- Dimensions: 21x12x50cm
- 3L water bladder and tube included
- Two front pockets
- Adjustable waist strap
- Durable nylon construction
- The huge capacity makes it perfect for long treks and overnight camping
- The Biofit back system offers incredible support and even weight distribution
- Adjustable height offers added versatility
- Plenty of storage space and additional pockets
- Rain cover ensures all your essentials stay dry
- Slightly on the heavy side
Just sneaking into the top five, we have the colossal Wilderness backpack from arguably one of the most well-known outdoor brands, Berghaus.
With a basic capacity of 60L, the Wilderness is suitable for even the most grueling expeditions, as there is ample room for everything you’ll need – and there’s also the added bonus of adding another 15L capacity in the form of two expansion side pockets.
As it’s one of the more expensive rucksacks on our list, you’d expect a lot of bang for your buck – and that’s exactly what you get.
The Wilderness rucksack is brimming with features, including a rain cover, top lid pocket, walking pole attachments and hydration system compatibility.
Features
- Capacity: 60+15L
- Weight: 1.87g
- Dimensions: 78x36x32cm
- Nylon Ardura 210D fabric composition
- Adjustable Biofit back system
- Chest strap
- Curved hip strap
- Extendable lid
- Top lid pocket
- Base compartment
- External bottle pockets
- Versatility is key with this backpack and it can be used on a day to basis
- Ideal size for mid-range trips
- All black colour scheme makes for a classy finish
- Wide straps prevent slips and offer added stability
- Excellent weight distribution
- Zips can feel a little flimsy at times
Falling just outside our top five, we have an offering from another reputable outdoor brand, in the form of the Salomon Unisex Trail 20 Running / Hiking Backpack.
Definitely more suited to medium distance races and hikes, this backpack has an ultra-lightweight design, while still maintaining a pretty decent 20L capacity.
One of the things we love about this rucksack is its sleek, simplistic design. In classic black, you may find yourself using this backpack even when you’re not hiking – perhaps on your daily commute, or on a trip to the gym – it really is that versatile.
Features
- Capacity: 20L
- Weight: 400g
- Dimensions: 51x21x16cm
- Nylon double ripstop 70D fabric composition
- Side mesh pockets
- Sweat proof design
- 3D air mesh foam shoulder straps
- Adjustable waist and chest straps
- Internal mesh pocket
- Internal support frame makes carrying heavy loads a doddle
- There’s plenty of storage – even for your sleeping bag
- Three colour options
- Currently the top selling internal frame backpack on Amazon
- Excellent weight distribution
- One of the best hiking backpacks under 100
- A little bit heavy at 2kg
This next bag puts comfort at the forefront and can definitely consider itself unlucky no to be placed higher on our list.
With a very decent 55L capacity, the Teton Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack comes with an internal frame that can be adjusted for a perfect fit around the torso and the waist.
Suitable for walkers and hikers of all capabilities, this excellent rucksack also has load adjustment straps to ensure you can carry heavier loads for loner, with relative ease.
The 600D Oxford canvas shell will definitely stand the test of time and the multiple compartments will ensure there’s room for everything you need to carry – and more.
Features
- Capacity: 55L
- Weight: 2kg
- Dimensions: 76.2x30.5x43.2cm
- 600 Oxford canvas composition
- Adjustable internal frame
- Padded straps
- Hydration ready
- Quick access pockets
- Gear loops
- The USB port and cable are a real bonus
- The straps are integrated into the design – making them much more stable
- Plenty of segregated compartments, both inside and out
- A perfect bag for hiking, commuting or day to day use
- The hip straps will help to relieve the pressure on your back and shoulders
- You’ll need to supply your own power bank for the USB port
Benefiting from both classic styling and military precision, the Kalidi 40L Military Tactical Backpack Rucksack is simply a must have.
Coming in both black and khaki variants, this bag may look on the smaller side, but is deceptively spacious, with a 40L capacity and excellent space management functions that ensure you won’t waste an inch of room.
What’s more, this bag also comes with an external USB charging port and corresponding cable. It also boasts high quality, water resistant fabrics and reinforced seams and stitching – making it one of the best budget hiking backpacks on the market.
Features
- Capacity: 40L
- Weight: 962g
- Dimensions: 51x39x24cm
- 600D Water resistant fabric
- Mesh back panel
- Padded straps
- USB port and cable included
- Internal water bottle clip
- The large capacity makes this backpack great for long walks or overnight excursions
- The reflective strips help increase visibility
- The durable foam lumbar pad offers added support and comfort
- Unrivalled value for money
- Shoulder straps don’t adjust
With an impressive 75L capacity, the Mooedcoe Large Hiking Backpack really is a beast, which is why it just sneaks into our top ten list of the best walking backpacks UK.
Available in blue, black, orange or green, this bag comes with a water resistant rain cover and a multi-functional design that will allow you to secure a sleeping bag, pad or even a tent via the adjustable compression straps.
The multi-position torso adjustment means it will fit all body sizes, whilst remaining its comfort and stability.
On top of all these amazing features, this is actually one of the cheapest bags on our list, which represents unbelievable value for money.
Features
- Capacity: 75L
- Weight: 1.25kg
- Dimensions: 74.9x35.1x30cm
- Water resistant fabric
- Rain cover included
- Adjustable waist strap
- Multiple internal and external compartments
- The foldable design means you can take it anywhere you go with ease
- Ultra-lightweight design makes it a pleasure to use
- A range of colours to choose from
- Internal compartments make it easy to separate your items
- Can appear creased if not folded correctly
Weighing in at just 130g, this backpack sneaks into our top ten almost on practicality and versatility alone. Available in seven vibrant colours, the latest offering from G4Free is made from high quality, tear and water resistant nylon fabric and comes with reinforced stitching for long lasting performance.
Obviously, with a relatively small 11l capacity, this isn’t a bag for overnight camping trips or all day excursions, but it will more than hold its own when it comes to short hikes and everyday use.
One of its greatest features is that it can fold down to a size of just 12x15cm, making it super easy to carry with you and take out when you need it most. What’s more, currently retailing at less than 15GBP, it represents incredible value for money.
Features
- Capacity: 11L
- Weight: 130g
- Dimensions: 33x21x16cm
- Water and tear resistant fabric
- Breathable mesh straps
- Two way zips
- Internal dividers