The Best Backpacking Packs for Thru-Hiking in 2026

Your backpacking pack is without doubt one of the most necessary parts of your backpacking setup. Your type of pack goes hand in hand along with your type of mountaineering. They should complement one another, no matter whether or not you’re a luxurious camper or an ultralight quick packer. The most effective backpacks for thru-hiking are those that suit your particular needs and wishes.

We based mostly our 2026 record of the most effective backpacking packs on suggestions from Trek writers, our gear testing workforce, our annual Appalachian Path thru-hiker survey, and an in depth comparability of worth, weight, options, sturdiness, and supposed use. 

That mentioned, there’s no one-size-fits-all. There are numerous various kinds of backpackers and a dizzying array of backpack fashions to serve their distinctive wants. Keep in mind that gear tendencies come and go, and in the end it’s as much as you to resolve what works finest to your packing type and supposed use. Did we omit your favourite? Be at liberty to yell at us within the feedback. We’re at all times open to testing new gear.

A be aware on pack quantity: the place accessible, we broke pack capability down into the amount of the primary compartment + quantity of exterior pockets. This wasn’t doable in all circumstances, as some producers ( you, Osprey and Granite Gear) solely report the general quantity.

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Finest Backpacking Packs for Via-Mountain climbing in 2026

Gossamer Gear Mariposa — Most Snug Pack

MSRP: $315Weight: 34.2 oz (medium w/ medium straight belt)Quantity: 36 + 24 litersMaximum load capability: As much as 35 kilos

Why We Love This Pack

There are actually lighter 60-liter packs in the marketplace, however none that carry a full load as comfortably as Gossamer Gear’s Mariposa. We hear this persistently from our personal writers and reviewers, in addition to from boards and different backpacking websites: the Mariposa is only a gosh dang comfy load-out.

GG up to date its flagship pack in 2024 with a redesigned body and cargo lifters, in addition to extra decisions of hip belt dimension and elegance. The Mariposa additionally now is available in a cool new colorway, which is at all times thrilling.

For thru-hikers who need the supportive, well-ventilated consolation of a fully-featured pack, solely with out all of the pointless bells and whistles (and weight), look no additional than this fan favourite. The Mariposa appears to do the whole lot nicely, managing to strike a fragile stability between streamlined simplicity and splendid consolation. A feature-rich, high quality pack at a good worth.

Options

Hip belt: Select between straight or curved and customise the dimensions. The 2024 replace noticed the introduction of the PVT body, which is supposed to pivot along with your stride for extra comfy weight distribution. Sure, it has pockets.

Eight pockets: Two massive, asymmetrical mesh facet pockets are accessible whereas carrying the pack. There’s additionally a 3rd stretchy facet pocket in your proper facet as you put on the pack — plus a big entrance pocket, a high lid compartment, two hip belt pockets, and the long-lasting again pocket the place the detachable sit pad lives.

Customization: Three torso lengths, three hip belt sizes, and two hip belt types for a extra customized match.

Breathability: Airmesh material on shoulder straps and hip belt for much less friction, extra cushion, and extra consolation.

Attachments and extras: Trekking pole {hardware} for storing poles on the surface of the pack, plus a lash loop for an ice axe, a sit pad that doubles as further again cushioning, and a detachable keep.

No person’s Good

Gossamer Gear now sends their medium and enormous packs with a medium straight hip belt put in and their small packs with a small/medium curved hip belt, as these sizes match most prospects. In order for you a distinct hip belt dimension or type, you’ll need to buy it individually after which return the put in model to the corporate for a refund. Not an enormous deal, simply know that the method shall be a little bit clunky if it’s worthwhile to swap.

The value and weight of the Mariposa each elevated a little bit bit with final yr’s redesign.

READ NEXT – Gossamer Gear Mariposa Overview

Extra packs like this: ULA Circuit, Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider, Gossamer Gear Gorilla

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ULA Circuit — PCT Via-Hikers’ Favourite Pack

MSRP: $300Weight: 38.5 ouncesVolume: 39 + 29 litersMaximum load capability: As much as 35 kilos

Why We Love This Pack

The ULA Circuit has been probably the most generally used pack on the PCT for six years working, based on Midway Wherever’s most up-to-date (2025) PCT thru-hiker survey. Whereas it’s removed from the lightest pack on this record, the Circuit makes up for this with distinctive construct high quality/sturdiness, consolation, and carrying capability — all essential options for the lengthy meals and water carries and rugged terrain of the PCT.

A reader requested us what makes the Circuit’s carrying capability so noteworthy — its 39 liters of main-compartment quantity aren’t that distinctive on paper, in spite of everything. But not each pack with a 40L major compartment distributes that quantity the identical manner, and  lots can’t accommodate a big bear canister inside, the place the Circuit can (once more, necessary on the PCT). It additionally has jumbo hip belt pockets, that are more and more a rarity in immediately’s UL-first market. ULA has additionally launched a small-volume (48L complete) Circuit for individuals who discover the usual Circuit overkill. 

An aluminum keep, carbon fiber loop, and dense foam panel kind a inflexible body that molds to your again over time. This makes the pack extremely comfy, maintaining weight secure and as near your again as doable. The Circuit is made out of 400D Robic material, ULA’s material of alternative as a consequence of its toughness per ounce .

ULA’s well-known buyer help additionally signifies that when you’ve given your pack an intensive beating via a thru-hike, you possibly can ship the pack again for a free tune-up to get it again to full well being.

There may be additionally an Extremely model of the Circuit accessible, which is a bit more costly however cuts just a few ounces and is extra weatherproof.

Even the usual Robic Circuit now options an UltraStretch mesh pocket because of a 2024 replace, which additionally included customary ice axe/trekking pole loops and attachment factors for elective Y- and backside strap kits.

Options

Roll-top closure and compression straps: The roll-top closure, paired with the highest and facet compression straps, provides this bag flexibility based mostly on the amount of your bag. This permits for giant carries out of city however a extra cosy pack when returning to civilization.
Twin hip belt pockets: The big hip belt pockets are large enough for the biggest of telephones and the hungriest of snackers.
Giant facet pockets: The facet pockets are large enough to hold two SmartWater bottles every, could be cinched down with the built-in drawstrings, and are positioned nicely for simple attain when mountaineering.
Giant mesh entrance pocket: The elastic entrance pocket and drawcords present easy accessibility to rain gear or storage of cumbersome objects.
Padded contoured shoulder straps and again: The padded again panel and shoulder straps are very comfy, if not a little bit sweaty.
Hydration bladder, hand loops, stash pocket: The pack comes with just a few further options that may be eliminated to avoid wasting about three ounces (85 grams) of weight.

No person’s Good

This pack isn’t the most effective in moist situations as the material soaks via and will get heavy, along with the necessity to carry a bag liner/trash compactor bag (keep in mind that Extremely model?). The again panel and shoulder straps can get very sweaty and are grime magnets, so ensure to place the pack down on its entrance/backside. 

And sure, there are different packs on this record that weigh much less and might nonetheless deal with the load of a typical PCT thru-hiker. We should always be aware that whereas the Circuit stays the preferred pack in Mac’s most PCT survey, it wasn’t the highest-rated.

Extra packs like this: ULA CDT, ULA OHM 2.0, Mountainsmith Zerk 40

READ NEXT — ULA Circuit Backpack Overview

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Osprey Exos (Males’s) | Osprey Eja (Ladies’s) — AT Via-Hikers’ Favourite Pack

MSRP: $265Weight: 43 – 46 ouncesVolume: 48 liters (38L and 58L variations additionally accessible)Most load capability: As much as 35 kilos

Why We Love This Pack

Osprey has redesigned this fashionable pack just a few instances through the years with extra sturdy face material, updating the mesh entrance pocket, and eventually reintroducing hip belt pockets after their inexplicable elimination. All through all of it, this pack has remained a perennial favourite amongst thru-hikers (the Exos and Eja mixed have ranked as the preferred pack on the AT almost yearly since we began monitoring this stuff with our AT hiker survey in 2015). Our 2025 record of the highest backpacks on the AT remains to be forthcoming, however spoiler alert, the Exo/Eja mixture nonetheless comes out on high by fairly a bit.

It’s an excellent middle-of-the-road mannequin, placing a pleasant stability between luxe and light-weight, constructed with lighter supplies and a few pared-down options. Sturdiness has elevated through the years with the aforementioned materials updates, and the Exos’s trampoline-style suspension is famously comfy. The ventilated mesh system retains your again cool whereas holding the pack tight towards your physique.

The Exos additionally is available in a 38 and 58L selection, and the ladies’s model could be discovered right here. The Exos has labored nicely as a unisex pack since its preliminary launch, however Osprey additionally launched the ladies’s-specific Eja a number of years in the past for individuals who need a extra dialed match.

Eja / Exos Professional

Osprey additionally provides a 55L “professional” model of this pack with a extra minimalist design and lighter supplies. The XS/S Eja Professional weighs 31 ounces, whereas the M/L Exos Professional weighs 35 ounces. Each packs price $290. That’s roughly a three-quarter-pound weight discount for an additional $50, which is a really affordable markup within the UL world.

Like the usual model, the Professional has a detachable lid. The lidless pack’s complete weight can drop to 2 kilos or much less, aka correct ultralight territory — a rare achievement for a pack with such a well-developed suspension system.

We haven’t examined the Eja/Exos Professional but, however some customers say the water bottle pockets are bigger and stretchier than on the unique, addressing one of many largest ache factors related to this pack. Yow will discover different backpacks on this worth and weight vary, however in all probability not with a suspension system to rival Osprey’s well-known consolation and breathability.

Options

Detachable high lid: The “mind” is a luxurious we don’t usually get with the lighter-weight packs. This model has two zippered pockets. It may be eliminated to avoid wasting weight, and hikers can as a substitute make the most of the flap beneath for defense excessive of the pack.
AirSpeed suspension: Osprey’s proprietary suspension system is comprised of tensioned mesh with beneficiant house for airflow in each path.
Adjustable hip belt: Osprey’s replace to this pack got here with an adjustable hip belt, good for hikers dropping critical kilos on a thru-hike.

No person’s Good

We have been stoked when Osprey introduced the hip belt pockets again just a few years in the past, they usually now seem right here to remain, however they’re too small for a mobile phone. The facet water bottle pockets are tight and tough to entry whereas the pack is on (the most effective methodology is to feed the bottle via the little gap within the entrance a part of the pocket). The compression straps are a bit fiddly, are tied to the hip belt itself in an inconvenient manner, and run proper over high of the water bottle pocket, placing the performance of each options at odds with one another.

Extra packs like this: Granite Gear Crown3 60, REI Flash 55, Gregory Maven/Paragon

READ NEXT – Osprey Eja 48 Overview

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Osprey Aura AG 65 (Ladies’s) | Atmos AG 65 (Males’s) — Finest Totally-Featured Pack

MSRP: $340Weight: 71-77 ouncesVolume: 65 litersMaximum load capability: As much as 40 kilos

Why We Love This Pack

The development of the twenty first century has very a lot been in the direction of lighter, less complicated packs, and annually, extra new thru-hikers lean in that path. Nonetheless, for backpackers in search of extra consolation with heavier masses, padding, and group choices, the Osprey Atmos/Aura is a good choice and continues to be the most effective and hottest fully-featured backpacking packs on long-distance trails.

Osprey’s basic suspension system comes into play for larger masses, and the ultra-padded hip belt and shoulder straps mildew to your physique for added consolation. The Aura is available in 65 and 50-liter choices. The Atmos is the boys’s model of this pack and in addition is available in 65 and 50-liter choices.

With ample organizational house and easy-to-use changes, this pack is an effective alternative for a newbie who’s simply studying to suit and cargo out a pack correctly.

Options

Entrance opening: The entrance opens vertically for simple entry to the primary compartment.
Pockets on pockets on pockets: A pack that weighs 4.5 kilos comes flush with pockets and organizational choices.
Prime lid: Two zippered pockets are perfect for stashing quick-access snacks and small objects.
Anti-Gravity suspension: The mom of all consolation for heavier packs.

No person’s Good

This pack weighs 4.5 kilos empty, which is greater than double the load of the preferred ultralight packs. That’s the primary factor working towards it, but it surely is sensible contemplating the sturdy supplies and feature-rich design. In order for you a light-weight service, this isn’t the pack for you, however the truth is that loads of AT hikers nonetheless select this pack yearly and report excessive ranges of satisfaction with it.

Extra packs like this: Gregory Deva, Gregory Baltoro, Osprey Aether, Osprey Ariel

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Granite Gear Crown3 60 Unisex | Ladies’s (Most Versatile Pack)

 

MSRP: $260
Weight: 38 oz
Quantity: 60L
Most load capability: 25 – 43 kilos, relying on body configuration

Why We Love This Pack

Yearly I ponder whether or not the Granite Gear Crown3 60 actually nonetheless deserves a spot in our high backpack suggestions amid such a various area of competitors. And yearly, I discover myself unable to take away it, due largely to my very own timeless love for this intelligent, rock-solid little backpack. (That is Kelly writing by the way in which. Hello.)

At almost 42 ounces, the Granite Gear Crown3 60 is hardly ultralight, but it surely does a fantastic job of bridging the ever-widening divide between conventional, fully-featured load haulers just like the 4.5-pound Osprey Aura/Atmos and the absurdly mild 11-ounce Zpacks Nero Extremely. Its easy, easy design makes it intuitive for even an entire novice to backpacking.

The place the Crown shines is in its versatility.

The highest lid is detachable, so you possibly can go away it behind to avoid wasting virtually 4 ounces, BUT far more excitingly, you may also clip the mind to the sternum straps for an outsized chest pocket, or clip it to the detachable hip belt to create a high-capacity waist pack for day hikes. (The mind full of further garments additionally makes an distinctive camp pillow, apropos of nothing.)

The plastic body sheet could be eliminated to shave 6.5 ounces for ultralight masses or bolstered with an aluminum keep to show it right into a heavy-duty load hauler.

The Crown3 additionally accommodates a reasonably broad vary of sizes: each the ladies’s and unisex packs are available in a number of torso lengths and have Granite Gear’s exceptionally adjustable Re-Match hip belt.

Options                     

Re-Match hip belt: Hip belt is adjustable by way of a easy velcro closure between 26 and 42 inches on the unisex match and 24 and 40 inches on the ladies’s match.
Detachable and reinforce-able body: A detachable body is a pleasant characteristic that may add flexibility to a pack and provides ultralight newbs an opportunity to dip their toes within the frameless backpacking pool. However the Crown3 stands out as a result of not solely is the body detachable, however you may also go in the other way and beef it up with an additional aluminum keep (bought individually) should you anticipate hauling heavier masses.
Twin sternum straps: One other distinctive characteristic of this pack is that it has not one however two sternum straps, including extra stability and one other likelihood to fine-tune the match. The secondary strap additionally makes it doable to clip within the detachable mind and put on it as a chest strap as a substitute, offering easy accessibility to a high-volume pocket with out having to take your pack off. The twin sternum straps are detachable, so you possibly can take away one or each in the event that they’re not helpful for you.
Shock wire bottle holders: Each shoulder straps have a pair of shock wire loops that can be utilized to carry a small water bottle.
Undyed model accessible: The white-and-grey undyed colorway reduces water waste by 55%, based on Granite Gear.

No person’s Good

You would view the Crown as a bridge between ultralight and totally featured, or as a jack of all trades and grasp of none. At 42 ounces, it’s neither a tricked-out conventional pack nor a streamlined minimalist. A lot as I adore it, I’ll be hte first to confess that on my previous few hikes, I’ve left the Crown at residence in favor of a extra ultralight choice.

The chest strap configuration is a good concept however can look a bit foolish, which is admittedly a Me downside. The again suspension system is just not probably the most breathable.

Extra packs like this: Granite Gear Blaze 60, Osprey Exos / Eja, Gregory Focal / Side

READ NEXT – Granite Gear Crown30 60 Overview

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Mountain Laurel Designs Prophet 48 (Finest Frameless Backpacking Pack)

MSRP: $245 – $325Weight: 17 ouncesVolume: 32 + 16 litersMaximum load capability: As much as 25 kilos

Why We Love This Pack

Mountain Laurel Designs has gained regular reputation on long-distance trails over the previous few years. Simply be certain you’re able to decide to a UL, frameless pack earlier than taking the dive.

The hip belt gives ample cushion for a pack of this weight, and the beneficiant pockets permit for exterior group. The pack can maintain a regular bear canister and has a roll-top closure with a Y-strap to safe gear on high of the pack. It sits near your again for stability.

The pack is unisex, with curved shoulder straps that ought to match comfortably on most women and men. There are sufficient sizing choices that discovering the best match isn’t a problem. You too can dimension as much as the Exodus or all the way down to the Burn if the Prophet doesn’t fit your torso dimension and/otherwise you actually wish to dial the match. The Prophet is offered in each Extremely X and UltraGrid 200D ripstop, with added reinforcement on high-abrasion areas.

No main updates to this pack since final yr, apart from a slight coloration alteration within the UltraGrid.

Options

Aspect pockets: Pockets are deep and might maintain water bottles in addition to bladders.
Padded shoulder straps: For a UL pack, the Prophet has some critically comfy shoulder straps. Straps are three inches broad, manufactured from SuperWick mesh lined with foam padding. “Love them, better of all my packs,” mentioned gear reviewer Alexander “GPS” Brown of the shoulder straps.
Roll-top closure: A Y-strap cinches down excessive of the closure, compressing the load because it decreases between resupplies.
Hybrid design on exterior pockets: The basic massive entrance and facet pockets are sturdy ripstop with mesh corners for draining.

No person’s Good

We’ve famous this, however this pack is for ultralight hikers. Heavier pack masses received’t really feel as supported. There’s a studying curve in the case of frameless packs, so you have to be an skilled backpacker (and/or keen to place in effort and time to discover ways to use the Prophet) should you select this pack.

Extra packs like this: Pa’lante Packs V2, Mountain Laurel Designs Burn, ULA CDT

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Durston Gear Kakwa 40 (Most Succesful/Finest Funds Ultralight Pack)

MSRP: $190 – $250Weight: 28 oz (medium Ultra100) | 29.6 oz (UltraGrid)Quantity: 40 + 15 litersMaximum load capability: 45 kilos

Why We Love This Pack

The Kakwa may simply be probably the most feature-rich ultralight pack accessible. Each sew, pocket, and buckle has been rigorously thought of by designer Dan Durston to contribute to his imaginative and prescient of a backpack that makes few sacrifices.

The outcome? An extremely sturdy pack that may comfortably haul heavier-than-average masses and comes geared up with helpful options comparable to shoulder pockets. Oh yeah, and it additionally weighs lower than two kilos and is without doubt one of the cheaper picks on this record (particularly should you go for the $190 UltraGrid model of the pack), therefore the extra “Finest Worth” award.

Severely, should you’re in search of an ultralight pack however aren’t prepared to surrender your load capability by going frameless, then the Kakwa must be a critical consideration. Its versatility makes it a reliable alternative for going quick and lightweight on the AT or for hauling large water masses on the CDT. The 45-pound max carry is the very best on this record and shall be overkill for almost all of use circumstances.

And don’t be delay by the minimal 40-liter capability. In case you want extra space, the Kakwa can be accessible in a 55-liter model. This is identical reasonably priced, premium pack, simply with extra space.

Options

EPL 200 Extremely material: Colloquially generally known as Extremely 200, this 200-denier woven laminate is the subsequent great point in ultralight materials since Dyneema Composite Material (DCF/DCH). Extremely makes use of the identical Dyneema unicorn hairs that make DCF tremendous robust for the load, weaving them with polyester for extra puncture and abrasion resistance.

There may be additionally a barely heavier UltraGrid Kakwa: it prices much less (simply $190) and weighs about two ounces extra.

U body:  Constituted of a single aluminum tube bent right into a form that sort of resembles an inverted U, the Kakwa body is the invisible hero of this pack. The horizontal crossbar gives one other dimension of stiffness that’s usually missing in ultralight backpacks, and permits the Kakwa to hold heavy masses extra comfortably and resist barreling.
QuickPocket: A vertical zippered pocket built-in into the left facet pocket provides safe storage for objects that could be too massive for the hip belt pockets. Assume paper maps, gloves, beanie, snacks, or a big mobile phone.
Shoulder strap pockets: Every shoulder strap rocks a stretchy, cinch-top pocket. But an alternative choice for maintaining necessities and snacks inside attain.
Load lifters: Adjustable straps join the highest of every shoulder strap with the pack’s body. Usually absent in ultralight packs, these little wonders assist switch weight off of the shoulders when the load will get heavy and might help dial in how snuggly the pack contacts one’s again.

No person’s Good

There’s not lots to nitpick in regards to the Kakwa, however hikers who love a cavernously stretchy outer mesh pocket may discover the no-stretch Kakwa mesh (chosen for sturdiness) a little bit proscribing. And name us grasping, however extra coloration choices wouldn’t go amiss.

Extra packs like this: Gossamer Gear G4-20,  Atom Packs Prospector, NatureHike Multifunctional Mountain Bag (for a much less UL however actually funds choice)

READ NEXT – Durston Kakwa 40 Backpack Overview

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ZPacks Arc Haul Extremely (Finest Ultralight Suspension System)

MSRP: $399Weight: 21.4 ouncesVolume: 47 + 13 litersMaximum load capability: 40 kilos

Why We Love This Pack

Zpacks changed the outdated gridstop Arc Haul with the extra sturdy, barely lighter Arc Haul Extremely in 2022. Ultralight stays present secure weight switch from shoulders to hips, whereas the Lycra again panel retains the pack suspended off your again for airflow — a lot wanted throughout scorching or humid hikes.

The pack doesn’t have hip belt pockets (unhappiness) however could be custom-made with elective add-ons like a hip belt pouch or fanny pack. The detachable hip belt has two straps for twin adjustment, and the torso size could be dialed in too. The pack could be ordered with two completely different sizes of shoulder straps or a vest-style shoulder harness (for an additional %50 and three.6 oz).

Like all good UL packs, the Arc Haul Extremely incorporates a stretchy mesh again pocket for stashing moist or quick-access gear.

Zpacks’ suspension system continues to impress. The Arc Haul Extremely carries weight extraordinarily nicely for one thing so mild: 40 kilos of carrying capability in a scant 22-ounce bundle is tough to argue with.

Certainly one of our contributors identified {that a} pack with 60 liters and 40 kilos of capability isn’t essentially within the “ultralight” spirit, however we couldn’t match “Finest Pack for Non-Minimalists Who Like a Few Luxuries and/or Want a Bear Can however Nonetheless Desire a Sub-Two-Pound Pack” on one line.

Options

Absorbent, padded straps: The multilayer mesh on the shoulder straps and hip belt are soft and take in sweat whereas serving to maintain you cool.
Vest harness choice: We’re excited that Zpacks is lastly providing vest straps, which distribute weight throughout the chest in a different way and in addition supply helpful storage choices.
Roll-top closure and seam-sealing: This bag is very waterproof, with taped seams and a water-resistant coating on the within of the fabric. The roll-top closure allows you to shrink your pack as your load lightens between resupplies.
Suits all customary bear canisters: The Arc Haul Extremely will match all customary bear canisters, so long as you stand it on its finish within the higher half of the pack. This contains the BV500, which didn’t slot in earlier variations of the Arc Haul.
Angled facet pockets: Sturdy facet pockets match a number of liters of water and are angled that will help you seize bottles on the go.

No person’s Good

We like hip belt pockets, and also you’ll have to purchase these individually with the Arc Haul Extremely (which is already fairly dang costly to start with). Greater than different manufacturers, Zpacks will get knocked for an absence of sturdiness and high quality management, with repairs on the suspension being an often-reported concern.

Extra packs like this: Zpacks Arc Blast

READ NEXT – Zpacks Arc Haul Extremely Overview

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Nashville Cutaway (Finest Fastpacking Pack)

MSRP: $350*Weight: 15.8 ozVolume: 34 + 10.5 liters (additionally 25 + 8 and 43 + 12)Most load capability: 25 kilos (per producer)

*Value and weight are based mostly on 18″ UltraGrid pack + 17.5″ shoulder straps + 1 customary and 1 elastic sternum strap. Doesn’t embrace equipment comparable to one-inch hipbelt or facet compression straps (which could be bought a la carte). You may get a inventory Cutaway should you don’t care about customizing the material and colours.

Why We Love This Pack

The Cutaway is by far probably the most advisable running-vest-style pack for hikers trying to journey quick and lightweight. At 15 ounces (admittedly that’s not counting any equipment it’s possible you’ll select so as to add, comparable to a sternum strap or facet compression straps), it’s the lightest backpack on this record.

The compact, frameless design is such that it’s best to be capable of totally entry any exterior pocket on the pack whereas carrying it, whereas the shoulder harness disperses weight throughout the chest and retains the pack cosy when transferring at velocity. Shoulder strap water bottle pockets make hydration simple.

The customized Cutaway is made to order with customized colours and your alternative of EPX200, Extremely 100X or 200X, Venom Gridstop ECO, Ultragrid, or Aluula Graflyte. The inventory Cutaway is with Venom or ALUULA solely. A wide range of add-ons, like ice-axe loops and a 1″ webbing hipbelt, are additionally accessible.

READ NEXT – Nashville Cutaway Overview

Options

US-made: Nashville packs are handmade in Tennessee.
Nonetheless retains the classics: Conventional options just like the roll-top closure with opposing buckles and basic mesh stow pocket on the entrance maintain this pack feeling acquainted.
Pockets for days: Six pockets on the shoulder strap present easy accessibility to drinks, snacks, and smaller necessities.
Backside pocket: Stretchy pocket sewn alongside the underside of the pack is simple to succeed in.

No person’s Good

As with most bespoke cottage gear, future Cutaway house owners need to take care of lengthy wait instances for customized packs (6-8 weeks as of this writing). This isn’t a last-minute buy.

With a 25-pound advisable load restrict, this pack is optimized for true fast-and-light minimalists. In case you’re not a fastpacker, and particularly if in case you have older or bulkier gear (or you possibly can’t go away the posh objects at residence), this isn’t the pack for you.

Extra Packs Like This: Mountainsmith Zerk 40, Six Moon Designs Flight 30, Final Course Fastpack 30

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Zpacks Tremendous Nero (Lightest Backpacking Pack)

MSRP: $279
Weight: 12.6 oz
Quantity: 50L (30 and 38L packs within the Nero sequence additionally accessible)
Most load capability: 20 kilos

Why We Love This Pack

I imply, how will you not love the concept of a 12-ounce, 50-liter backpack? That’s simply wild. Do be aware that this weight is with customary straps and no hip belt. The load can go as excessive as 19.7 ounces should you select a big padded hip belt and vest-style shoulder straps.

However contemplating that this pack has a max advisable load of simply 20 kilos and is supposed for true UL hikers, you in all probability don’t even want a hip belt anyway. And the vest straps are purely a matter of non-public desire: you may love the concept of a extra distributed harness system (to say nothing of these shoulder strap pockets!) and think about the four-ounce weight penalty value it.

Level is, in its lightest configuration, you received’t discover one other equally sized pack as mild as this. Our reviewer, Alex, sums it up finest: “the Tremendous Nero is an absurdly mild pack that makes just a few compromises on consolation and long-term sturdiness to attain its feather-light weight. It exists to chop base weights by any means and is finest for knowledgeable, ultralight-focused hikers.”

You probably have extra compact gear, the 38L Nero and the 30L Sub Nero are in the identical pack line and can prevent an oz or two, respectively.

Options

Interchangeable shoulder straps: Select between customary 3-inch-wide S-straps (2.5-inch for the small/girls’s straps) or a vest harness for an additional $50. The vest straps additionally include pockets.
Frameless: Zpacks foregoes the body on this superlight pack to maintain the load as little as doable.
Seam taped: You must in all probability nonetheless use a pack liner, however the truth that the seams are taped dramatically improves this pack’s water resistance (it’s made with waterproof Utra 100x to start with). Additionally, seam taping improves the power of the seams, boosting sturdiness.
Adjustable torso: The hip belt could be moved up or down between three positions to regulate the torso size (assuming you’re utilizing the hip belt). Will be adjusted between 18 and 22 inches (a suitabe vary for many adults, however received’t match individuals on both finish of the torso size spectrum).
Comes with foam sit pad: 1-ounce closed-cell foam sit pad (11″ x 15.5″) gives further again cushioning and help. Held in place with shock wire.

No person’s Good

Alex examined each shoulder strap types and located each fairly uncomfortable with minimal usable padding. We might additionally like to see the dimensions vary expanded over time: the 18 to 22-inch torso size restrict will exclude shorter and taller hikers, whereas the dearth of a small padded hip belt choice makes this pack much less purposeful for lean builds.

Extra Packs Like This:  Durston Wapta, Pa’lante Ultralight, Mountain Laurel Designs Prophet

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Symbiosis Aspen (Finest Ladies’s Ultralight Backpack)

MSRP: $299
Weight: 25 oz
Quantity: 38 + 10 liters
Most load capability: 20 kilos

Symbiosis Gear describes the Aspen as “the backpack for individuals with boobs.” This isn’t the one backpack designed particularly with feminine our bodies in thoughts, however it’s just about the one true ultralight girls’s pack. The Osprey Eja is a good female-specific pack, as an example, but it surely weighs virtually three kilos. The Aspen weighs barely greater than 1.5, and our reviewer says it’s probably the most comfy pack she’s ever worn.

The S-curve shoulder straps, paired with a three-way-adjustable, elasticized sternum strap, make it simpler to dial within the match via the chest space no matter your physique sort. The Aspen was created by a lady — Mellow, the proprietor and founding father of Symbiosis — who had been struggling to discover a pack that match her correctly on the PCT.                  

Past the boob-friendly match, it’s only a stable backpack general. It’s frameless, so it’s going to work finest for hikers with a real ultralight setup. Particular pockets at all times make us comfortable, and the Aspen delivers with an easy-to-access backside pocket and shoulder strap pocket to your telephone. 38 liters must be sufficient capability for many UL hikers, however an extra-long Y-strap on high will turn out to be useful for strapping down further gear if wanted.

Options

Stretchy sternum strap: Contours to all kinds of physique sorts with out constricting your chest. You may modify the place the strap sits in your chest by way of a daisy chain attachment system.
Spacer mesh on again panel to enhance airflow: Reviewer Ariella notes that the pack options extra cushioning within the again panel and shoulder straps than different ultralight packs she’s tried.
Stowable webbing waist belt: The 1.5″ webbing waist belt is non-load-bearing and could be stowed out of the way in which contained in the facet water bottle pockets while you don’t wish to use it. It suits as much as 50″.
420d Extreema: The vast majority of the pack is made with 420d Extreema, a extremely sturdy, abrasion-resistant, and waterproof bolstered Robic nylon.                

No person’s Good

Like all frameless packs, your carrying capability shall be restricted to about 20 kilos with the Aspen (our reviewer pushed it to about 25 with out concern). This isn’t an entry-level pack and received’t be acceptable for each use case.

The telephone pocket may be very handy, however unfastened sufficient on high that the contents of the pocket may spill on a technical path that entails a whole lot of scrambling.

Extra Packs Like This: Zpacks Ladies’s Arc Haul Extremely  60, Osprey Eja Professional

READ NEXT – Symbiosis Aspen Overview

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The Finest Backpacks for Via-Mountain climbing: FAQs

What dimension backpack do you want for thru-hiking?

This relies on what you’re doing. In case you simply have one pack for all of your outings, a 50L pack (or thereabouts) is the most secure choice. 50-55 liters will carry the whole lot you want for almost all of treks whereas stopping you from overpacking. A smaller pack (35- 45-liter vary) is simply sensible for knowledgeable long-distance backpackers with ultralight setups. In case you pack heavier objects, or your path requires particular gear or longer water/meals carries, search for one thing within the 60- to 65-liter vary.

Certainly one of our spec classes is “most load capability,” however remember that we’ve discovered producers are usually a bit beneficiant when itemizing most weight capability for his or her packs. Err on the facet of warning when loading the bag. If our reviewers suggest a weight, it means they’ve personally examined it and might attest to the load restrict. However once more … these usually are not scientific load suggestions.

Per typical knowledge, your backpack must be the final piece of substances you purchase. That manner you possibly can dimension the amount of your gear and know for positive what dimension of pack you want.

READ NEXT –

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What are a very powerful options to search for in the most effective backpacks for thru-hiking?

It relies on how a lot on-the-go comfort you need. Listed here are just a few options (largely pockets, let’s be actual) to search for while you select a pack.

Mind: Brains (or “high lids”) have extra space than hip belt pockets and extra safety than entrance mesh pockets. They’re a fantastic addition for mid-size objects you don’t wish to get misplaced in your pack. Once I went to a extra light-weight pack, I undoubtedly missed the highest lid. Many brains are detachable with zippered pockets on the highest and backside.

Hip belt: A hip belt is a should for a lot of hikers. It provides help and weight distribution, particularly important if you’re carrying a heavier load. Search for a padded hip belt with simply adjustable buckles. You’ll in all probability go down a dimension or two on a thru-hike, and if the belt doesn’t cinch all the way in which down, it received’t supply sufficient weight distribution to make it worthwhile. Pockets on the hip belt are clutch, excellent for a headlamp, small water filter, and snacks. Some ultralight hikers opt-out and use fanny packs, which they’ll round city to maintain valuables shut.

READ NEXT – The Finest Fanny Packs for Via-Mountain climbing

Sternum strap: One other solution to maintain your pack load near your physique and relieve strain off your shoulders. That is simply adjustable and will sit flat beneath your collarbone. The Six Moon Designs Swift X has two sternum straps, which offer double the floor space for weight distribution. Our tester additionally mentioned they decreased chafing.

Load lifters: These are necessary for heavier masses and are sometimes discovered on mid-range and fully-featured packs. They connect to the pack physique (or body, just like the Zpacks Arc Haul) and shoulder straps, and might tighten to safe the pack load nearer to your physique, which reduces direct loading on the tops of your shoulders. Launch the load lifters to counterbalance a steep descent. Tighten them towards your physique for steep climbs to maintain the load shut.

Aspect pockets: These are the place your water bottles go. In case you like to have the ability to attain your water bottles whereas strolling, search for facet pockets with an angled lower so you possibly can seize them and put them again with out asking for assist. The fabric must be stretchy however sturdy, and comfortably match a minimum of a one-liter bottle of water. Additionally, they need to be tall sufficient {that a} water bottle received’t fall out.

Shoulder pockets: Shoulder-strap pockets are nice. It’s sort of a bummer that they aren’t on extra packs as of late. Do I sound outdated? I cherished the stretchy mesh pockets on my 2015 Exos. I stored my telephone in there for fast entry for photos, and in addition gummy worms. You should purchase shoulder pockets individually from just a few completely different firms (I’ve this one from Hyperlite) however they are often clunky.

—Maggie Slepian

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Totally Featured, Ultralight, or Someplace in Between?

This relies on your packing type. Folks with a sub-10-pound base weight can confidently carry a frameless pack. However should you’re hitting a path with lengthy water carries, keep in mind that water weighs two kilos per liter, and can carry up your complete weight.

Lay out your gear. Now weigh it. Do you carry over 20 kilos as a base weight? You’ll want a burlier pack just like the Osprey Atmos/Aura or Gregory Deva. Ten- to 15-pound base weight? A mid-weight pack just like the Gossamer Gear Mariposa or Durston Kakwa will work nicely. Lower than a ten-pound base weight? You’re a candidate for a smaller capability, frameless pack like a Pa’lante Pack, MLD Prophet, or ULA CDT.

We’ve written at size in regards to the temptation of going ultralight. But when your mountaineering type and pack load aren’t conducive to a 35-liter frameless pack with no hip belt, you’ll be ditching it on the subsequent street crossing and hitching a journey to the closest gear store.

That mentioned, the load of a 70-liter, totally padded pack could be six kilos or extra empty. Whereas these are the most effective backpacking packs for carrying actually heavy masses, most thru-hikers with trendy gear — even when it’s not ultralight gear —  simply don’t want this a lot capability. In any case, many thru-hikers ditch sufficient gear throughout the first few hundred miles to not warrant the additional suspension and padding.

Midweight fashions just like the Mariposa, Exos, or Swift X have sufficient options and suspension to hold round 30-35 kilos comfortably, however with out the beefy buckles, reminiscence foam hip belts, and massive capability to carry your base weight too excessive for happiness.

—Maggie Slepian

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PSA: Packs Are available Completely different Torso Sizes

A pack is one thing you put on, due to this fact they arrive in numerous sizes. This may occasionally sound apparent, but it surely got here as a shock to me after I purchased my first backpacking pack (and apparently I nonetheless can’t determine it out). Your shoulder straps ought to lengthen straight out out of your shoulders, not drop down (torso too brief) or lengthen up (torso too lengthy). Some packs have adjustable torso sizes, whereas others are mounted. 

Having the fallacious dimension pack means the pack received’t distribute the load because it was designed to. You’ll really feel fatigue in your shoulders because it pulls again, whereas not sitting appropriately in your hips.

Most outfitters can measure you for a pack. In case you’re doing it at residence, torso size is calculated as the gap out of your seventh cervical vertebra (the outstanding bump in your backbone on the high of your shoulders while you drop chin to chest) straight down the backbone to the highest of your iliac crest (hip bone). 

Additionally! Don’t assume that since you’re a sure dimension in a single model, you’re that dimension throughout. I’m a Small in Hyperlite Mountain Gear and ULA, however a Medium in Gossamer Gear, and I blew it by ordering my G4-20 in a small. In case you can, it’s at all times higher to attempt the pack on. In case you can’t attempt it on, most firms have reference pages the place you possibly can measure your torso and know what dimension to order, together with directions for measuring your torso to their specs.

—Maggie Slepian

READ NEXT — How To Regulate Your Backpack Match

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Why Ought to You Belief Us?

As a result of we’re so extremely clever, in fact! Enticing, too. (To not point out extraordinarily humble).

But when that isn’t sufficient to impress you, there’s additionally the truth that everybody who contributed to this text is an skilled thru-hiker with 1000’s of on-trail miles beneath their belt. We’re gear nerds who love placing our gear to the check on trails lengthy and brief, and we’ve tried dozens of packs in pursuit of a greater backcountry expertise.

Furthermore, we survey lots of of Appalachian Path thru-hikers yearly to find out about their behaviors, demographics, and—you guessed it—gear preferences. Which means our picks for the most effective thru-hiking backpacks aren’t simply our opinions: they’re based mostly on years of suggestions from the thru-hiking neighborhood.

Take a look at AT hikers’ favourite thru-hiking backpacks from the 2022, 2023, and 2024 thru-hiker surveys. (2025 survey forthcoming … keep tuned!)

Extra of the Finest Backpacking Gear of the Yr

Authentic article by Maggie Slepian. Alex “GPS” Brown and Rachel Shoemaker contributed to the 2022 replace of this record. Owen Eigenbrot refreshed it for 2023/2024. Aaaaaand most just lately Kelly Floro did the 2025 and 2026 updates.

Featured picture: Graphic design by Chris Helm.

 

Incessantly Requested Questions (FAQ)

What’s the hottest backpack for the Appalachian Path?

The Osprey Exos (Males’s) and Eja (Ladies’s) have persistently ranked as the preferred packs on the AT in our annual surveys since 2015. Notably, our 2025 AT Hiker Survey discovered that the ULA Circuit and Durston Gear Kakwa have been tied for the second-most fashionable spot.

What backpack do most PCT thru-hikers use?

The ULA Circuit is probably the most generally used pack on the Pacific Crest Path, favored for its sturdiness and skill to hold the heavy meals and water masses required for the path.

What dimension backpack do I would like for a thru-hike?

Most thru-hikers discover {that a} 40 to 60-liter pack gives the perfect stability of house for gear and meals whereas maintaining the load manageable.

What’s the finest ultralight backpack with a body?

The Durston Kakwa 40 and Zpacks Arc Haul Extremely are high decisions for hikers searching for an ultralight weight (beneath 2 lbs) with a body. Moreover, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest acquired the very best satisfaction score from hikers in our most up-to-date survey.

How do I measure my torso dimension for a backpacking pack?

To search out your dimension, measure out of your C7 vertebra (the bony bump on the base of your neck) all the way down to the iliac crest (the highest of your hip bones).