Selection of the Best Models of the Year
Choosing the right backpack is essential to make the most of your hikes and trekking adventures. Whether it’s a short outing lasting a few hours or a multi-day expedition, your pack must suit your needs and the gear you carry. It should provide carrying comfort while remaining convenient and efficient in use. Hiking backpacks with a capacity of under 40 litres are ideal for day hikes or short overnight trips, whereas rucksacks exceeding 40 litres are better suited to multi-day treks requiring more extensive equipment. To help you choose, we’ve selected the best backpacks currently available, combining lightness, comfort, and functionality, crafted from durable materials and designed with smart organisation for use across a variety of terrains and conditions.
The Best Hiking Backpacks Between 15 and 30 Litres
Millet Ubic 20
Compact and versatile, the Millet Ubic is designed for year-round outings. Its Variloop system provides exceptional modularity for attaching skis, ice axes, and other gear. Lightweight and waterproof, it’s perfect for hikes or short alpine adventures requiring well-organised equipment.
- Capacity: 20 litres
- Weight: 915 g
- Materials: Recycled Honeycomb 3Line, durable water-repellent finish (PFC-free DWR)
- Features: Variloop system, ski carry, rain cover
- Use: hiking, skiing, mountaineering
Millet Ubic 30
A larger version of the Ubic 20, this model is designed for longer adventures. It retains the Variloop system for flexible gear attachment and includes bottom access, ideal for backpacking. Its durability and comprehensive features make it an essential backpack for mountain activities.
- Capacity: 30 litres
- Weight: 1265 g
- Materials: Same as the Ubic 20, with additional reinforcements
- Features: Variloop system, ski carry, bottom access
- Use: hiking, skiing, mountaineering
Lafuma Access 20 Venti
Designed for day hiking, the Lafuma Access 20 Venti backpack strikes an excellent balance between comfort, ventilation, and durability. Its ventilated mesh back panel and ergonomic 3D mesh shoulder straps provide comfortable carrying, while the sternum strap and hip belt ensure a secure and stable fit.
- Capacity: 20 litres
- Weight: 900 g
- Materials: 200D Mini Ripstop polyester, 600D polyester, and 250D Oxford polyester lining, all 100% recycled
- Features: ventilated mesh back panel, 3D mesh shoulder straps with load lifters, trekking pole holder
- Use: day hikes and everyday outings
Lafuma Access 30
- Capacity: 30 litres
- Weight: 870 g
- Materials: polyester, PFC-free DWR finish
- Features: pole holder, sleeping bag straps, rain cover
- Use: light and efficient hiking
Osprey Tempest Velocity 20
Designed specifically for women, this hiking and trail running pack combines lightness and stability for day-long adventures. Its AirScape back panel, padded shoulder straps and BioStretch hipbelt ensure comfortable and well-balanced carrying. Highly functional, it features flask pockets, hydration system compatibility and a Stow-on-the-Go pole carrier, all crafted from Bluesign-certified recycled materials.
- Capacity: 20 litres
- Weight: 820 g (XS-S) / 860 g (M-L)
- Materials: 210D recycled high-tenacity nylon (Bluesign), 420D recycled nylon base (Bluesign), 70D recycled nylon lining (Bluesign), PFC-free DWR coating
- Features: trekking pole attachment, AirScape back panel, sternum strap with whistle
- Use: day hiking and trail running
Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 26 Backpack
Designed for day hiking, the Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 26 backpack combines lightness, ventilation, and practicality. Its AirZone LT back system ensures excellent airflow while keeping the pack stable, and the padded shoulder straps and hip belt provide balanced load distribution. Functional and well organised, it features multiple storage pockets, a TipGripper pole attachment, and compatibility with hydration systems.
- Capacity: 26 litres
- Weight: 890 g
- Materials: 6.6 Mini Ripstop HydroShield 210D
- Features: AirZone LT back system, TipGripper pole attachments, stretch side pockets
- Use: day hiking
Deuter Futura 23
Comfortable and functional, the Deuter Futura backpack is perfect for sporty hikes. Its ventilated back panel and multiple pockets make it easy to carry gear, even during intense outings. Made from durable materials, it is also environmentally friendly.
- Capacity: 23 litres
- Weight: 1200 g
- Materials: recycled polyamide and polyester (Bluesign)
- Features: pole holder, AirComfort system, rain cover
- Use: sporty hiking
Ortovox Traverse 30
This pack combines versatility and comfort for long outings or alpine activities. Its ventilated back panel and wide hip belt efficiently distribute the load, while its numerous straps allow for carrying skis and poles.
- Capacity: 30 litres
- Weight: 990 g
- Materials: Ripstop polyamide, DWR finish
- Features: ski carry, zippered lid, rain cover
- Use: long hikes, mountaineering
Vaude Wizard 18+4
With an adjustable volume and a ventilated back panel, this backpack perfectly adapts to your needs. It is ideal for day hikes as well as daily urban commutes, all while meeting high standards thanks to its sustainable manufacturing.
- Capacity: 18+4 litres
- Weight: 990 g
- Materials: polyester with Eco Finish
- Features: expandable capacity, Aeroflex Control system, rain cover
- Use: hiking and daily use
Millet Prolighter 22
Ultra-light and compact, the Prolighter is designed for demanding activities like ski touring or mountaineering. With fastening points for ice axes and skis, it remains versatile for short adventures or daily use.
- Capacity: 22 litres
- Weight: 630 g
- Materials: Honeycomb polyamide, PFC-free DWR finish
- Features: ice axe holder, ski carry, rain cover
- Use: hiking, skiing, climbing
Comparison Chart for 15-30 Litre Backpacks
| Brand/Name | Capacity (L) | Weight (g) | Materials & Finish | Features | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Millet Ubic 20 | 20 | 915 | Recycled honeycomb 3Line, PFC-free DWR | Variloop, ski carry, rain cover | Hiking, skiing, mountaineering |
| Millet Ubic 30 | 30 | 1265 | Recycled honeycomb 3Line, PFC-free DWR | Variloop, ski carry, rain cover | Hiking, skiing, mountaineering |
| Lafuma Access 30 | 30 | 870 | Polyester, PFC-free DWR | Pole holder, rain cover | Hiking |
| Lafuma Access 20 Venti | 20 | 900 | Ripstop polyester, PFC-free DWR | Pole holder, ventilated mesh back panel | Hiking |
| Osprey Tempest Velocity 20 | 20 | 820 | Bluesign recycled Robic nylon | Pol holder, AirScape back pannel | Hiking |
| Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 26 | 26 | 890 | Polyester, water-repellent | Pole holder, front pocket | Hiking, daily use |
| Deuter Futura 23 | 23 | 1200 | Recycled polyamide and polyester, Bluesign | Pole holder, expandable pocket | Hiking |
| Ortovox Traverse 30 | 30 | 990 | Ripstop polyamide, water-repellent | Pole holder, zippered lid | Hiking, mountaineering |
| Vaude Wizard 18+4 | 18+4 | 990 | Polyester with Eco Finish | Pole holder, rain cover | Hiking, daily use |
| Millet Prolighter 22 | 22 | 630 | Honeycomb polyamide, water-repellent | Ice axe holder, ski carry | Hiking, skiing, mountaineering |
The Best Trekking Backpacks from 40 to Over 50 Litres
Deuter Aircontact Core 50+10
The Deuter Aircontact is a robust and versatile backpack, perfect for long self-supported hikes. Its expandable capacity (50 to 60 litres) and thoughtful ergonomics (Air Contact panel, padded hip belt) make it an excellent choice for backpacking. Its modular design with removable pockets adds to its practicality.
- Capacity: 50 + 10 litres
- Weight: 2160 g
- Materials: durable polyamide, breathable panels
- Features: pole holder, sleeping bag compartment, water bladder, rain cover
- Use: long hikes and treks
Lafuma Access 65+10
Designed for expeditions lasting three days or more, this rucksack features a capacity expandable from 65 to 75 litres, making it highly convenient for adjusting the amount of gear you need to carry. Its durable water-repellent finish protects your belongings from moisture in case of a short shower. The padded hip belt ensures optimal comfort during long hikes, helping to distribute the load onto the hips rather than the shoulders.
- Capacity: 65 + 10 litres
- Weight: 1720 g
- Materials: polyamide and polyester (1000 mm waterproofness)
- Features: pole holder, sleeping bag compartment, rain cover
- Use: long hikes or travel
Osprey Aether 55
This versatile model is perfect for multi-day hikes. It offers exceptional ergonomics thanks to its adjustable shoulder straps and Fit-on-the-Fly™ hip belt, which helps distribute the load onto the hips to relieve the shoulders. It also comes with a rain cover to keep your gear dry.
- Capacity: 55 (S/M) to 58 litres (L/XL)
- Weight: 2200 g
- Materials: high-tenacity Bluesign nylon
- Features: ice axe holder, sleeping bag compartment, hydration system
- Use: hiking and trekking for 3 days or more
Osprey Atmos AG 65
Ideal for long adventures, this backpack offers maximum comfort thanks to its AntiGravity back panel. Designed with durable and eco-friendly materials, it features multiple pockets and an ergonomic carrying system for superior weight distribution.
- Capacity: 65 (S/M) to 68 litres (L/XL)
- Weight: 2300 g
- Materials: abrasion-resistant Bluesign nylon
- Features: pole holder, sleeping bag pocket, waterproof cover
- Use: long hikes with heavy gear
Millet Ubic 55+15
With an adjustable capacity, this backpack is designed for multi-day treks. Its water-repellent finish and recycled materials highlight the brand's eco-friendly commitment. Featuring an efficient load distribution system and multiple practical pockets, it offers excellent functionality.
- Capacity: 55 + 15 litres
- Weight: 1950 g
- Materials: recycled polyamide and polyester
- Features: pole holder, sleeping bag compartment, rain cover
- Use: hiking and trekking for 3 days or more
Osprey Talon 44
Perfect for multi-day hikes, this backpack combines durability and ergonomics. Its BioStretch shoulder straps and AirScape back panel ensure superior comfort. With an efficient organisation system, it is a versatile choice for various outdoor adventures.
- Capacity: 42 litres (S-M) to 44 litres (L-XL)
- Weight: 1350 g (S-M) to 1470 g (L-XL)
- Materials: Bluesign recycled nylon, water-repellent
- Features: pole holder, sleeping bag compartment, removable straps
- Use: hiking and trekking
Millet Peuterey Integrale 45+10
A compact yet spacious model with a 10-litre extension, ideal for mountaineering and hiking. Its design allows for carrying skis, ice axes, and crampons while protecting your gear from the elements. Ergonomic and versatile, it adapts to all your adventures.
- Capacity: 45 + 10 litres
- Weight: 1580 g
- Materials: high-strength nylon, water-repellent finish
- Features: ski carry, ice axe holder, hydration pocket, crampon compartment
- Use: mountaineering and demanding hikes
Comparison Chart for 40-50 Litre Backpacks
| Brand/Name | Capacity (L) | Weight (g) | Materials & Finish | Features | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deuter Aircontact Core 50+10 | 50+10 | 2160 | durable polyamide, breathable panels | Pole holder, sleeping bag compartment, rain cover | Multi-day hikes and backpacking |
| Lafuma Access 65+10 | 65+10 | 1720 | Polyamide and polyester, DWR, waterproof | Pole holder, sleeping bag compartment, rain cover | Long hikes or travel |
| Osprey Aether 55 | 55 | 2200 | high-tenacity Bluesign nylon | Ice axe holder, sleeping bag compartment, hydration system | Hiking and trekking for 3+ days |
| Osprey Atmos AG 65 | 65 | 2300 | Abrasion-resistant Bluesign nylon | Pole holder, sleeping bag pocket, waterproof cover | Long hikes with heavy gear |
| Millet Ubic 55+15 | 55+15 | 1950 | Recycled polyamide and polyester | Pole holder, sleeping bag compartment, rain cover | Long hikes and backpacking |
| Osprey Talon 44 | 44 | 1470 | Bluesign recycled nylon, water-repellent | Pole holder, sleeping bag compartment, removable straps | Long distance trekking and hiking |
| Millet Peuterey Integrale 45+10 | 45+10 | 1580 | High-strength nylon, water-repellent finish | Ski carry, ice axe holder, hydration pocket, crampon compartment | Mountaineering and technical hikes |
What Is the Maximum Weight Recommended for Your Backpack on a Hike?
The maximum weight recommended for a hiking backpack depends on several factors: your physical condition, the duration of the outing, and the difficulty of the trail. Generally, it is advised to not exceed 20% of your body weight for hikes. For instance, a person weighing 70 kg (11 stones) should keep the weight of their backpack to around 14 kg (30.8 pounds). For day hikes, 6 to 8 kg (6 to 17.6 pounds) is usually enough, while for multi-day treks, a weight between 12 and 15 kg (26.5 and 33 pounds) is ideal. Proper weight distribution is also crucial: the heaviest items should be placed close to your back, in the centre of the pack, for better balance and carrying comfort.
Which Backpack for a 5-Day Hike?
For a 5-day hike, it’s essential to choose a backpack with a capacity of 50 to 70 litres, capable of holding your sleeping gear, clothing, and food. Among the models in our top picks, several stand out for their versatility and comfort:
Deuter Aircontact Core 60+10
Ideal for long treks, it offers excellent weight distribution and practical features like a sleeping bag compartment and rain cover.
Millet Ubic 60+10
Versatile and eco-friendly, this pack is perfect for self-supported adventures with multiple pockets and a water-repellent finish.
Osprey Atmos AG 65
Designed for comfort over long distances, with an AntiGravity back system and accessible pockets.
How to Choose Your Hiking Backpack?
Our dedicated tutorial How to Choose Your Hiking Backpack? provides the key elements to make an informed decision based on various factors to consider. If you have specific questions, don't hesitate to contact our experts by phone for their advice.
We also offer a guide to review the practical gear to bring on your hike: What to Pack in Your Hiking Backpack?
Backpacks: The best brands available at Glisshop
Millet: A century of mountain expertise
Rooted in mountaineering history, Millet supports hikers and climbers with high-quality equipment designed for performance and reliability. Its backpack ranges, such as Ubic and Prolighter, are suited for both long hikes and technical climbs. With a renowned expertise, the French brand is committed to responsible and sustainable manufacturing, using innovative materials and optimising production to minimise its environmental footprint.
Osprey: Dedicated to exploration
Since 1974, Osprey has been designing cutting-edge technical backpacks. Known for its meticulous design and premium craftsmanship, the Californian brand focuses on durability and eco-responsibility, promoting repair over replacement. From lightweight hiking to the most demanding treks, Osprey equips adventurers with iconic models like the Talon and Tempest ranges, combining comfort, lightness, and functionality.
Lafuma: Sustainable outdoor gear
Since 1930, Lafuma has been providing nature lovers with backpacks, clothing, and accessories designed for outdoor activities. Founded in the Drôme region, the French brand has been committed to responsible production for decades, favouring certified materials and offering repair services to extend the lifespan of its products. Versatile and functional, its backpacks provide excellent carrying comfort for hiking, camping, or everyday outings. Lafuma represents a blend of craftsmanship and environmental commitment, supporting all kinds of adventures.
Deuter: Excellence for adventure
Since 1898, Deuter has been equipping adventurers with robust and innovative backpacks. As the first brand to integrate a back ventilation system, it develops technical models suited for hiking, trekking, and alpine expeditions. Committed to sustainability, it partners with the Bluesign label and the Fair Wear Foundation. With flagship ranges like Futura for hiking and Kid Comfort for child carrying, Deuter combines comfort, performance, and durability to support every mountain outing.
Vaude: Naturally committed
Since 1974, Vaude has been designing outdoor equipment that blends technical innovation with environmental responsibility. Specialising in backpacks, the German brand also develops durable and functional clothing, tents, sleeping bags, and cycling luggage. A pioneer in eco-design, it created the Green Shape label and prioritises Bluesign-certified materials. Committed to fair working conditions and low-impact production, Vaude is a top choice for eco-conscious adventurers.
Salewa: Alpine heritage
Since 1935, Salewa has been developing gear tailored for mountaineering and alpine adventures. Born in the Dolomites, the Italian brand initially gained recognition with leather backpacks and revolutionary crampons before expanding into a full range of technical equipment and clothing. Specialising in mountaineering and trekking, it offers approach shoes like the Wildfire series and hiking-specific apparel. Staying true to its roots, Salewa is committed to responsible production and reducing its environmental impact.
Rab: High-altitude excellence
Founded by mountaineer Rab Carrington in the 1980s, Rab is a benchmark for cold-weather protection and extreme conditions. Best known for its sleeping bags and down jackets like the Microlight Alpine, the British brand creates lightweight, high-performance gear tested in high-altitude environments. With innovations such as Vapour-rise technology, it caters to passionate adventurers seeking reliability and optimal insulation. Rab also offers repair and maintenance services, ensuring long-lasting durability for every expedition.
Picture: Eco-design at the heart of outdoor gear
Since 2008, Picture Organic Clothing has been revolutionising outdoor apparel with eco-friendly technical and lifestyle gear. Founded by three passionate riders, the French brand stands out with ski jackets and pants made from recycled materials, as well as a range of backpacks, gloves, and accessories designed for adventure. Committed to sustainability from product development to its eco-built headquarters, Picture prioritises innovative and responsible manufacturing.
Lowe Alpine: Built for long journeys
Created by passionate mountaineers, Lowe Alpine revolutionises backpack design with technical, ergonomic, and durable solutions. Engineered for hiking and trekking, they provide a precise fit, excellent load distribution, and efficient ventilation systems. The range includes versatile models like the AirZone Trek 45:55 for long hikes and the compact Edge 18 for everyday use. Lowe Alpine also offers packs tailored to women's anatomy and follows an eco-friendly approach by using PFC-free materials.
Ferrino: Outdoor expertise
For over 150 years, Ferrino has been supplying the most demanding adventurers with products designed to withstand extreme conditions. Established in Turin in 1870, the Italian brand initially made a name for itself by waterproofing fabrics before becoming a key player in the outdoor industry. Its innovations, tested at high altitudes in its High Lab, ensure reliability and durability. A recognised expert in expeditions and backpacking, Ferrino designs rucksacks tailored for long-distance trekking and challenging adventures, combining robust materials, carrying comfort, and practicality.
Dakine: From surfing to the mountains
Founded in Hawaii in 1979, Dakine first made a name for itself in surfing before becoming a major player in snow sports. With backpacks designed for skiing, snowboarding, and freeriding, the brand combines practicality, durability, and style. Iconic models like the Heli Pro 20L and Heli Pack 12L offer ingenious carrying solutions for mountain safety gear. Versatile and performance-driven, Dakine also produces high-quality gloves and durable luggage designed for every rider's adventures.
Blue Ice: Focused on technical excellence
Known for its expertise in mountaineering and climbing, Blue Ice also designs backpacks that are perfectly suited for hiking. Ultra-light, durable, and functional, they provide excellent carrying comfort, ideal for mountain adventures. Their robust materials ensure high durability and reliability in challenging terrain. Whether for technical hikes or more casual outings, Blue Ice backpacks allow you to embrace every adventure to the fullest.
Black Diamond: Reliability and precision
Designed to withstand the most demanding terrains, Black Diamond backpacks combine durability, technical features, and lightweight construction. A recognised specialist in mountaineering and ski touring, the brand offers stable and ergonomic models tailored for long climbs and technical outings. With functional designs and durable materials, these backpacks ensure complete reliability, whatever the mountain conditions.