Whether roughing it in a tent or luxury camping in an RV, a good backpack is essential for exploring campgrounds and national parks. But without breaking the bank, what is the best budget hiking backpack?
The Venture Pal 40L Packable Backpack is the best hiking backpack for those on a budget. It is an Amazon’s Choice product under $25 with 11 color choices and over 30,000 near-perfect reviews. It weighs 1 lb. and features a waterproof wet pocket.
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
But that’s just one of the many fantastic options I found!
I shared the pros and cons of each backpack. The key criteria employed are whether these backpacking backpacks are affordable, durable, spacious, adjustable, lightweight, and comfortable.
Now, there are tons of backpacks available. But I recommend only those that are highly rated and affordable. Without further ado, let’s check them out.
1. TETON Sports Oasis 18L Backpack
TETON Sports Oasis 18L Backpack is an Amazon’s Choice product, meaning it is highly rated, reasonably priced, and ready to ship immediately. It is undoubtedly one of the best hiking backpacks out there because it comes with an array of features that will make your outdoor activities a lot of fun.
It comes with a 2-liter leakproof hydration bladder. It has adjustable shoulder straps, and you can also adjust the chest and waist. It has side compression straps and side water bottle pockets.
In fact, it’s got plenty of pockets. It has plenty of space and offers quick access. It has a waist belt and chest strap and a large capacity. It’s got a sewn-in rain cover and comes in a variety of colors. And some other additional features.
It can be used by men and women, old and young. Whether you’re going on short hikes or multi-day hikes, or for short trips or long days, TETON Sports Oasis is one of the best packs to accompany you.
Pros:
- It is lightweight
- It is versatile
- It comes with a water bladder
- It has a rain cover
- It looks great
Cons:
- It has no frame
- The hip belt is simple
- There is no harness adjustment
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
2. Maelstrom Hiking Backpack
The Maelstrom Hiking Backpack is a great option when you’re in the market for the right backpack. It is made with high-quality material that’s water-resistant, tear-resistant, and wear-resistant. So you can use it no matter the weather.
It’s ergonomically designed to offer maximum comfort. It has a ring handle, breathable padded back, straps, and an adjustable chest buckle to easily distribute the weight.
It has a large capacity and has several compartments. It’s got a roomy zipper main compartment, 1 top pocket, 3 front zipper pockets, 2 waist zipper pockets, and 2 mesh side pockets. There is a headphone hole and a water pipe hole on the top of the backpack.
Pros:
- It is versatile
- It is sturdy
- It’s got padded shoulder straps
- It’s got waist straps
- It is relatively water-resistant
- It has a rain cover
- It has a lot of space
Cons:
- Someone wrote that it is too long
- Someone wrote it’s not durable
- Zippers constantly catch on the nylon material
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
3. Osprey Hikelite 18 Hiking Backpack
Osprey Hiking Backpack is an Amazon’s Choice product. So, it’s a great choice. Osprey packs are lightweight and have a sleek design. The Hikelite has ventilated mesh back panel to keep your back cool and comfy. It comes with an integrated rain cover to keep the pack and your gear dry in rainy or wet weather.
It has stretch mesh pockets where you can store small items and scratch-resistant organization for sunglasses and electronics. You can also buy its internal hydration sleeve that can store up to 3 liters.
Pros:
- Its straps fit and feel well
- It’s pretty durable
- It has a lot of space
- It’s got clips on both sides of the pack
- It’s got an internal frame
- It is organized well
- It keeps your back cool
- It has integrated rain cover
Cons:
- The straps are too wide at the top
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
4. WATERFLY Packable Backpack
WATERFLY packable backpack is an Amazon’s Choice product. It’s one of the best ultralight backpacks you could buy. It’s made with high-quality tear and water-resistant nylon. In fact, you can pack it into a small pocket (sandwich size). It weighs only 420g.
It has a large capacity and is organized well — It’s got one hidden pouch, one main zipped compartment, one zipped front pocket, and two side pockets. And durable SBS metal zipper and reinforcement at stress points.
It’s got a cable hole and an internal pocket you can use for charging. One of the pockets in the main compartment is waterproof and there is a zipper that separates it. This is great for when you’ve got sweaty clothes or towels you’ll like to keep separate. Its breathable shoulder straps are light, and they keep you cool.
Pros:
- It is extremely lightweight
- It can be packed into a small pocket
- It’s got lots of colors
- It has lots of straps
- Its straps are mesh
- It is durable
- It is affordable
Cons:
- Someone claimed that the straps seemed flimsy
- Someone claimed it doesn’t have a lot of structure
- Another said it doesn’t sit comfortably on the back
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
5. Kailas 20L/26L Backpack
Kailas Lightweight Backpack is a great value. It is made of 420D highly quality fabric that provides excellent breathability and has anti-tear characteristics. It has adjustable chest straps.
It has enough space, the main compartment can accommodate 20L, and there is a secure compartment for storing your laptop. And it also has a dedicated compartment for storing the hydration bladder.
It’s got two side pockets for umbrellas or water bottles and waist-zippered pockets to store smaller items. This lightweight pack is awesome for hiking, climbing, school, vacation, and other uses. A reviewer described it as the perfect day hiking bag.
Pros:
- It is very comfortable
- It is lightweight
- It doesn’t hurt your back
- You remain cool
- It comes with a water bladder
- It has a rain cover
- It looks great
- It holds its shape
- It’s waterproof
Cons:
- Someone wrote that the harness felt uncomfortable
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
6. Venture Pal 40L Packable Backpack
Venture Pal is made of high-quality tear and water-resistant nylon fabric. Heavy-duty metal zippers are used in addition to bar tacks at major stress points to make the bag more durable. It has a double-layer bottom piece to create more space, so you can take a lot more with you on your adventures.
A waterproof wet pocket is added to the main compartment, and a zipper at the back of the backpack leads to this pocket that can be used to keep wet and sweaty stuff contained. It has padded, breathable mesh shoulder straps, so it doesn’t feel heavy or hot on your shoulder.
It is lightweight and packable. You can fold it into one of its own small pockets!
Pros:
- It is lightweight
- It is versatile
- Tons of zippered areas and pockets
- It is big
- Its zippers are butter smooth
- It’s a steal at the price
- It’s got a “wet’ pocket
- It is durable
Cons:
- The netted side pockets can be deeper
- Water bottle holder and loops in front could be stronger
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
7. NEVO RHINO 50L/60L Backpack
This is a good backpack that is waterproof, spacious, comfortable, and durable. It is made of high-quality water-resistant, tear-resistant, and scratch-resistant nylon fabric. It comes with a rain cover at its bottom to keep your stuff dry.
It’s got thick and wide breathable mesh shoulder straps that are well-padded to help relieve pressure on your shoulder. And it has high elastic breathable back and hip belt support for optimal ventilation.
It is large and has a lot of space. It has an interior pouch for the water bladder, two small pockets for carry-on items, two side mesh pockets for water bottles, and a compartment for the sleeping bag at the bottom. And the top bungee pocket can store a wet towel or thin jacket.
Pros:
- Removable and adjustable top cover
- High water bladder capacity
- It has a waterproof rain cover
- Separate pouch for shoes
- Separate compartment for sleeping bag
- It is a steal at the price
Cons:
- Someone wrote that the chest straps are too low
- The hip belt is simple
- There is no harness adjustment
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
8. TETON Sports Scout Backpack
Teton Sports Scout is an Amazon’s Choice product. It has a sturdy construction and is a good hiking backpack that’s the perfect fit for long trips and heavy loads.
It is a large backpack (50 liters) with a lifetime warranty. It’s got angled water bottle containers, a sleeping bag compartment, an innovative water bladder compartment, compression straps, and several exterior pockets. Its exterior is water-repellent, and it has a rain cover.
Pros:
- It offers quick and easy access
- It is versatile
- Plenty of pouches
- Strong zippers and streams
- It comes with a water bladder
- It has a rain cover
- It looks great
Cons:
- It’s a tad heavy
- Side pockets are small
- Front mesh pocket is not elastic
- Sleeping bag compartment could be bigger
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
9. MOUNTAINTOP Backpack
MOUNTAINTOP backpack is one of the top picks. It’s the perfect pack if you’re going on long trips and you’ve got a lot of gear. It has a large capacity, up to 75L!
It’s got adjustable shoulder straps, so it can easily fit your body type. It has breathable mesh padding and a ventilated back system, making you comfier as you explore different places.
One side has a pocket that’s big enough for your jacket and umbrella, the other offers easy access to the main compartment, where you’ve got a separate bladder sleeve that’s ideal for a 3-liter hydration bladder. The bottom zipper has a waterproof rain cover.
Pros:
- Giant front zipper access to the main compartment
- It is lightweight
- It’s a steal at the price
- Its height is adjustable
- Sleeping bag section
- Big hip belt pockets
- Big vertical exterior pockets
- Removable divider
Cons:
- Someone wrote that the side straps gave them a rash
- Short sternum strap
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
10. Ubon 50/60L Camping Backpack
Ubon is a sturdy pack made of 600D water and tear-proof nylon fabric. With up to 60L storage space, it’s the ideal choice when you’re going on long trips. It’s got a sleeping pad compartment, one top lid pocket, one front shove-it pocket, and mesh water bottle side pockets.
The lower part is for shoes and clothing. And there are quick access waist pockets to store keys, cell phones, snacks, and other stuff. It’s got an internal frame that transfers stress from the back to the waist and reduces tension and strain on the back.
It’s got padded shoulder straps and two hip belts. Its suspended air-mesh panel spreads the load across your back and keeps your back cool. There’s a water outlet for your water bladder and an integrated rain fly.
Pros:
- It has a lot of buckles and straps
- It has tight webbing on the side
- It comes with a sturdy and comfy internal frame
- It has a rain cover
- It looks nice
Cons:
- Shoulder straps could be wider
- No documentation
- A reviewer wrote that the frame was painful
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
11. WintMing 75L Backpack
WintMing 75L backpack is made with waterproof nylon material. It has a large capacity and high quality and smooth zippers. It has multiple compartments to help you organize your stuff.
There’s the main compartment with its drawstring closing design, there’s one for your hydration bladder, one for your shoes, and several external pockets. The bottom pocket stores a rain cover.
It employs a waist belt system that makes it a breeze to tighten in high loads to disperse the weight from the shoulder to the hips.
It has multiple attachment points and straps. There are compression straps that make it compact and easy to carry. It’s got wide and thick shoulder straps to help relieve stress on the shoulder. It does not have an internal frame, but it has a breathable back panel, so your back feels comfy even if you’ve been carrying the bag for a long time.
Pros:
- It is ultralight and sturdy
- It is versatile
- It is very comfortable
- It has a lot of space
- It’s easy to clean
- Great customer service
- It comes with a water bladder
- It has a rain cover
- It looks great
Cons:
- It has no internal frame
- It’s hard to use a water bladder
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
12. SKYSPER 40L Backpack
SKYSPER 40L backpack is made of high-density, thick 600D polyester and 210D plaid nylon fabric. It’s water-resistant, tear resistant, and wear-resistant.
All its stress points and shoulder straps are reinforced with lap-knots to make it more durable. There are breathable shoulder pads to reduce fatigue. It is designed to hold everything you’ll need on your trip. It is large, with many compartments for easy storage and organization.
There’s a spacious zipper main compartment, two front zipper pockets, one sleeping bag pocket (that can also hold your shoes), two mesh pockets, and two waist zipper pockets. There’s also a place for your hydration bladder (but the backpack does not come with one).
The back of the backpack is ergonomically designed to be breathable and comfortable. The pack has an adjustable and removable strap system and an anti-theft zipper to prevent important documents and items from being stolen. It comes with a rain cover with a fixing buckle, and it also has a safety whistle.
Pros:
- It is extremely durable and sturdy
- High quality and extra padded
- Has a large capacity
- The straps are ultra comfortable
- It is waterproof and tear and wear resistant
- It has reflective strips for safety in the dark
- It’s a steal at the price
- It is versatile
- It has a rain cover
Cons:
- Someone claims it is poorly made
- No hydration bladder
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
13. YANIMENGNU MINGMOU Backpack
YANIMENGNU MINGMOU 40L Backpack is the right pack if you want a versatile pack and are concerned about water resistance. It’s an Amazon’s Choice product that’s made of waterproof, wear-resistant, and tear-resistant polyester fabric. The stress points are reinforced to make the pack durable.
It’s large and has multiple compartments. There’s the main compartment, a zipped front pocket, two front zipper pockets, and two side zipper pockets.
One of the main compartments is big enough to take a laptop, in case, you’ll do a bit of work on the road. And there’s a hidden anti-theft pocket plus a breathable and comfortable cushion back design to relieve pressure on the shoulder.
Pros:
- It is waterproof
- It’s got a sturdy waist strap
- Spacious capacity
- Affordable price
- Lots of buckles
- Solid zippers
- It is versatile
- It has a rain cover
- Its bright orange color is great for safety
Cons:
- Someone wrote that they suspect the pack is not durable
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
14. WoneNice 50L Waterproof Backpack
WoneNice 50L Waterproof Backpack is made with high-quality polyester and nylon fabric that is anti-scratch, tear-resistant, water-resistant, and wear-resistant.
It has a high capacity, and naturally, it has many compartments. It has a main compartment, two zipped front pockets, a compartment for a sleeping bag, and mesh side pockets to store a tent and other gear.
Its tightness can be easily adjusted as it has an adjustable chest belt and waist belt and is suitable for any age or gender. It’s ergonomically designed for better ventilation and to be easy on the back.
Pros:
- It is well-made
- It is lightweight
- It is spacious
- It is very comfortable
- It has lots of pockets
- It has a rain cover
- It is durable
- It is affordable
Cons:
- It has no back frame support
- It would be better if it were reflective
- Pop-out 5-liter expansion awkward
- Belly strap could be longer
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
15. MAXTOP 40/50L Packable Backpack
MAXTOP is made with strong, water-resistant fabric, and its stress points are reinforced to make it durable. It has multiple compartments- a main zipper compartment for clothes and gear and three pockets with some extra pockets inside.
It has comfortable, breathable shoulder straps that are adjustable that come with a whistle buckle. The pack has reflective strips that are a safety feature. It’s foldable, so when not in use, it can be easily folded into its own front zip pocket.
Pros:
- It is big
- It is comfortable
- Neat and clean design
- It comes with a water bladder
- It has a rain cover
Cons:
- Its small pockets aren’t deep enough
- Would have been better with double zipper heads
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
16. Aveler 50Liters Backpack
Aveler is made with water-resistant nylon fabric and comes with an integrated rain cover. It’s a big pack with a massive main compartment and a drawstring design at the top, ideal for making it more spacious. It has a padded internal pouch for laptops.
It’s got mesh side pockets and lower gear loops for long item storage. And two zipped pockets that are great for electronic products, cards, and tools. It’s got space for a 2 to 4-liter water bladder (not provided with the pack). It’s got breathable back support to ease the burden on your shoulders.
Pros:
- Strong but lightweight
- High-quality craftsmanship
- Sturdy internal frame
- Nice sleeping bag area
- It is water resistant
- It has a rain fly
- It looks great
Cons:
- Someone wrote it’s not for larger frame hikers
- Side and waist pockets could be better
- The hip belt is short and thin
- Torso length adjustment could be better
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
17. ONIYEA 55L Backpack
ONIYEA 55L backpack is made with high-quality polyester and nylon fabric and has a high capacity. It is tear-resistant, water-resistant, and wear-resistant. It has breathable mesh straps that relieve stress on the shoulder. It’s designed for optimal ventilation.
Pros:
- It is well-made and lightweight
- It has good padding at the back
- A part of the belt is padded for extra support
- Main zippers have rain flaps
- It has many compartments
- Lots of places to hang things on
- It has a rain cover
Cons:
- Single-line stitching at multiple points
- The clips could be better
- It has no internal frame
- Shoulder straps and hip belt, not adjustable
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
18. BOVIP 40L Backpack
BOVIP backpack is made of waterproof, wear-resistant, and tear-resistant polyester fabric. The stress points are reinforced to make the pack durable.
It’s large and has multiple compartments. There’s the main compartment, a zipped front pocket, two front zipper pockets, and two side zipper pockets.
One of the main compartments is big enough to take a laptop, in case, you’ll do a bit of work on the road. And there’s a hidden anti-theft pocket. There’s a breathable and comfortable cushion back design to relieve pressure on the shoulder. It only weighs two pounds and comes in different colors.
Pros:
- It is water resistant
- It is sturdy and super comfy
- Well-constructed
- Lots of compartments
- It looks great
Cons:
- It is heavy and bulky
- It has no rain cover and no water bladder
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
19. NEEKFOX Packable Backpack
NEEKFOX is made with high-quality nylon fabric that can easily bear the weight of heavy loads you’ll carry on your adventures. It has breathable shoulder straps that can be adjusted to fit anybody. It is lightweight and water-resistant, and it has multiple compartments.
Pros:
- It is lightweight
- It is water resistant
- It comes with a water bladder
- It is roomy
- It has lots of pockets
- It’s inexpensive
- It is comfy even when it is full
- Compartment for wet items
Cons:
- Lacked adjustable straps for the side pockets
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
20. Deuter Speed Lite Backpack
Deuter Speed Lite is designed for fast-paced hiking and trail running. It has side compression straps that reduce load wobbling and helps enable full-range movement. It is designed for comfort. It has several compartments, an adjustable sternum belt, and two elastic side pockets.
Pros:
- It is lightweight
- It has pockets on the shoulder strap
- It is pretty comfortable
- Mainly mesh or stretchy mesh
- It comes with a water bladder
- It looks great
Cons:
- It has no rain fly
- Water bladder space could be better
- Someone wrote that the top loop strap was not strong
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
21. ZOMAKE 20L Backpack
ZOMAKE is ultralightweight and stylish. It’s made of water-resistant, double-layered wear-resistant fabric. It’s packable and ideal for day hiking and for everyday use. And it’s designed to reduce the pressure on the shoulder.
Pros:
- It is lightweight
- It is well-built
- Has reflector highlights
- Easy to wash
- It looks great
Cons:
- It has no rain cover
- Someone wrote that it’s bulky
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
22. Loowoko 50L Backpack
Loowoko Backpack is made with high-abrasion fabric that can withstand the stress of packing 50L of stuff. It’s a good idea when you’re on multi-day hiking trips and have extra gear to bring.
In fact, it’s spacious enough for what you’ll need for a week. Breathable mesh shoulder straps and breathable back support are a few of the features designed to give you optimal comfort.
Pros:
- It is lightweight
- It is versatile
- It comes with a water bladder
- It has a rain cover
- It looks great
Cons:
- It has no frame
- The hip belt is simple
- There is no harness adjustment
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
23. Granite Gear Crown Backpack
Granite Gear Crown has a large capacity (60L) and is made with really tough fabric: 100D High-tenacity nylon with NeverWet liquid repelling treatment and 210D High-tenacity ripstop nylon with NeverWet liquid repelling treatment. It has a removable lid. And these are just a few of its great features.
Pros:
- It has plenty of space
- The cost is reasonable
- It is lightweight
- It is versatile
- Well-placed compression straps
- Place for water bladder
- Can handle a short drizzle of rain
- It looks great
Cons:
- Thin shoulder straps
- Mesh at the back could be stronger
- Not well- organized
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
24. HOMIEE 35L Backpack
HOMIEE 35L Backpack is made with waterproof, wear-resistant nylon material. It has a large capacity and high quality and smooth zippers. It has multiple compartments to help you organize your stuff.
There’s a place for your hydration bladder, one for your shoes, and several external pockets. The bottom pocket stores a rain cover. A water bladder is not included.
It has multiple attachment points and straps. There are compression straps that make it compact and easy to carry. It’s got wide and thick shoulder straps to help relieve stress on the shoulder. It has a breathable back panel, so your back feels cool. The manufacturer offers a 12-month replacement guarantee.
Pros:
- It is waterproof
- It is lightweight
- It is versatile
- It is sturdy
- It is aesthetically pleasing
- It has a rain cover
- It looks great
Cons:
- The inside liner ripped
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
25. G4Free 45L Backpack
G4Free 45L backpack is made of water-resistant and ripstock nylon fabric, with SBS zippers. It has multiple compartments, one is roomy enough for clothes and a laptop and has a place for a water bladder (not included). It has many pockets and adjustable straps.
Pros:
- It is lightweight
- It has a lot of space
- It is inexpensive
- It has a rain cover
- It looks great
Cons:
- Someone wrote that the fabric is cheap and that it ripped
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon
Conclusion
In the article, we reviewed 25 of the best budget hiking backpacks. We focused on backpacks that are spacious, made with tough fabrics, and adjustable to fit most people, tall or average, men or women.
As you’ll expect, they are by different brands, such as Granite Gear, Deuter, Bovip, Teton, Mountaintop, and WintMing. And they come in different sizes and colors. We focused on backpacks that are under $100.
Image by Henning Sørby from Pixabay
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