Whether it is for your daily commute, freeride sessions or any outdoor activity, a good backpack is the key to success. Equally important to go to class or work, walk in the city or explore the highest summits. With all the models and brands available, it can be difficult to make the right choice. Each backpack has its own features and we’re here to help you pick the right backpack for your needs. To do so, we’ve selected some of the best models of the moment, from the ultra-light and compact to the best-featured for long mountain expeditions, here’s everything you need to pack your essential gear and much more!
Dakine Mission 25L: in mountain, urban or work mode
How not to mention the Dakine Mission 25L! Like fine wine, this practical backpack improves every season. Its versatility, affordable price and storage space make it a favourite among skiers. It features a simple but efficient design to keep your equipment organised and carry your safety gear on high-altitude adventures. To make it even more practical, the American brand featured a removable chest strap, allowing to adapt it to any activity. It even has fleece-lined pockets to protect your glasses or goggles. With the development of teleworking, more people need to carry their laptop between their home and workplace. The Dakine Mission 25L features a pocket for your computer. It doubles up as a compartment for a hydration blader on your outdoor outings. Snowboarders will be able to attach their board thanks to the straps. The Mission 25L is a versatile model, ideal for sports, school, work and the streets.
Features:
Capacity: 25 litres
Chest strap
Hydration system compatible
Removable hip belt
Pocket for sunglasses and goggles
Fleece-lined pocket to protect your glasses or snow goggles
Air Mesh
Padded breathable mesh material
Snowboard carry
Straps to attach your snowboard
Organiser pocket
Easily store small items such as a smartphone, pens or wallet
15” laptop compartment
Storage pocket for 15” laptop
Tablet pocket
Padded pocket to store your tablet
Osprey Talon 33: versatile and functional
Often imitated, never duplicated, the Talon 33 from Osprey is built for long hikes with its capacity of 33 litres. Behind its clean and modern look, this recycled nylon backpack hides a clever design that will satisfy your every needs. The AirScape foam back panel is ultra-comfortable. It is paired to the BioStretch hip belt and shoulder straps that follow your movements. Its multiple pockets protect your equipment, and you have room for a couple of extra layers. You can also store your glasses and electronical devices in the scratch-free pocket. Virtually everything is adjustable on this model which guarantees perfect comfort and practicality during long outings. You can use it for biking or other outdoor activities as well. With this durable, comfortable and amazingly versatile model, Osprey has got your back!
Features:
Capacity: 33 litres
AirScape back panel
Access to hydration system from outside
Durable materials
AirScape panel
Excellent support
Hydration compartment access
Accessible from the outside
Stretch pocket on shoulder strap
To keep your phone on hand
Trekking pole holder
Stow-on-the-Gotm for when you don’t need your poles
Zippered pockets on hip belt
Two easy access zippered pockets
Deuter Freerider Pro 34+: large capacity
If you’re looking for a large capacity to carry everything you need, you can count on the Deuter Freerider Pro 34+. This backpack is quite simply the biggest in the German brand’s Freerider range. Whether it is safety equipment, ice axes, water bladder, it can hold everything. You can also attach your skis, snowboard or snowshoes. The capacity can be increased thanks to the Roll-Top expansion system for 10 extra litres. Pretty ideal for multi-day outings. Especially as it is very comfortable to wear even fully loaded, thanks to the adjustable ergonomic shoulder straps, breathable back panel and semi-rigid U-shaped back structure. The Freeride 34+ works for any outdoor activity or weekend trips.
Features:
Capacity: 34 litres
10 litres of additional storage
Compatible with 3 litre water bladder
Very strong polyamide fabric
Semi-rigid U-shaped back structure
Provides stability and better weight distribution on the hip stabilisers
Large back access compartment
Easy access to your stuff without removing equipment
Diagonal or A-frame ski carry
Two distinct stowable straps to attach skis, a snowboard or snowshoes
Reinforced safety equipment compartment
Dedicated front pocket with organiser and padding for your shovel
Burton Day Hiker 25L: trendy and stylish
With its sophisticated looks and discreet profile, the Burton Day Hiker 25L backpack is as much at home in the mountains as in the streets. Featuring two practical small pockets, it allows to carry all the equipment you need for your outdoor activities, classes or urban outings. With its clever carrying system, reinforced shoulder straps and laptop compartment, the Burton Day Hiker backpack has been a staple for years. It is today the undisputed champion of its category.
Features:
Capacity: 25 litres
Laptop compartment
Hydration system compatible
Fleece-lined pocket
Mammut Nirvana 30L: for long hikes
The Mammut Nirvana 30L is a technical backpack designed for long hikes and intense freeride sessions. Packed with features, it offers multiple storage options both inside and outside for efficient space usage. You'll be able to pack everything you need and have extra room, while enjoying optimal comfort thanks to the EVA padded V-shaped back panel. You'll benefit from ideal weight distribution and will save energy during mountain expeditions. When you add good looks and a sustainable manufacturing process, you get the freerider’s best friend, what more can you ask for?
Capacity: 30 litres
A-frame and diagonal ski carry
Hydration system compatible
Emergency tag with instructions
Millet Ubic 30L: ski touring and hiking, the all-rounder
Ski touring and hiking enthusiasts will like the Millet Ubic 30L. This model owes its versatility to its Variloop system. It allows to attach any type of equipment. You can use it for your snowshoes, skis or even your backpacking gear. Of course, the Ubic 30L is made of waterproof fabric and benefits from a water repellent finish to keep your equipment dry. It features numerous pockets and practical compartments.
Features:
Capacity: 30 litres
Foam Light ventilated back panel
Variloop system to carry any kind of equipment
Ergonomic shoulder straps