Rucksacks or backpacks, whatever you decide to call them, it’s up to you. There are many brands to choose from with all sorts of price points. I will give you the five best hiking rucksacks/ backpacks in no particular order.
When looking for rucksacks/backpacks, there are a few things to consider. The main things to look out for are; support (back and straps), size (20l,30l,40l), pockets, comfort and quality. These are the main things as you want a comfy bag that is the right size, has pockets for everything you need and won’t fall apart or break easily. Whether you buy one of the bags below or not, I hope I can help you find the brand, style or look of the bag you want.
I will cover rucksacks for a classic day hike in the UK and won’t be suitable for multi-day hikes. When I create a post about large bags, I will link to it. So if it’s not linked, assume I haven’t written about it yet. If you need help with a larger pack, head over to my Instagram or contact me and send me a message, and I will get back to you as soon as possible. Anyway, let’s get into the post.
Rucksacks and Backpacks
Let’s get into why you are here… a hiking rucksack.
1. Lowe Alpine AirZone Pro 35:45
Cost: £110 RRP
This rucksack is perfect for any time of the year. It is ideal for hikes due to the breathable back system, which means wearing it for a long time, you won’t get as hot and sweaty as other bags. Along with that, the rain cover is perfect for… well, rain.
Specifications
- Adjustable back system
- Torso Fit Centro adjustable back system for a fully customisable, comfortable fit
- Side compression straps – regulate load weight for easier carrying.
- Top and side access – easily accessible gear throughout pack construction
- Versatile pocket space – including mesh pockets, zipped front pocket, and stretch hip belt pockets.
- Ice axe loop
- Rain cover
- Front elastic stowage cradle for easy storage of additional items
- Walking pole attachment points
- Capacity: 35 litres + 10 litres with extension
- Max load: 15 kg
- Dimensions: 68cm x 34cm x 34cm
- Weight: 1.65 kg
Purchase from here.
Read more here.
2. Lowe Alpine Trail 33
Cost: £80 RRP
This is a great choice and is £130 cheaper than above, with many of the same features.
I prefer the Low Alpine Air Zone Pro, as it is a slightly bigger bag. I like to have larger bags as if I do need to carry more on a specific day; I have the option to. Other than size, most features of the Lowe Alpine Trail are the same as the Lowe Alpine Air Zone Pro.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 63 x 32 x 26cm
- Hydration compatible
- Hipbelt pockets
- AirZone breathable back maximising airflow
- Walking Pole attachments
- Rain cover
- Weight:1.12kg / 2lb 7.5oz
3. Osprey Talon 36
Cost: £160 RRP – Looking online, a lot of places sell it a bit cheaper than this
The iconic Osprey Talon 36 was developed for the long-distance endurance user who demands the best performing and lightweight kit. The bag has excellent back support making it quite comfy for long distances. You can even use it for multi-day if you are packing light (id recommend a giant bag for multi-day hikes).
Coming in at £160, it is much more expensive than Lowe Alpine. I don’t think that it is better value for money. I believe that Osprey is a bit overpriced compared to other great companies. Note, I don’t think that they are wrong, just expensive.
Specifications
- Weight: 1.1 kg
- Dimensions (CM) 61L / 29W / 23D
- Fabric ****100D x 210D Bluesign Recycled Robic Nylon
- External hydration access
- Internal key attachment clip
- Sternum strap with emergency whistle
- Side compression straps much.
- Reflective graphics
- Zippered top access
- Fully adjustable AirScap back panel with foam ridges for comfort and fit.
- Die-cut EVA harness
- Ice axe loop
- Internal mesh pockets
- Compatible with Hydraulics™ Reservoirs
- Padded hip belt
- Injection moulded Airscape HDPE back panel with EVA foam padding.
- Front power mesh pocket
Purchase from here.
4. Osprey Talon 44
Cost: £170 RRP – Looking online, many places sell it a bit cheaper than this.
Out of the two Osprey backpacks we look at in this post, the Osprey Talon 36 and 44, I don’t see the point in getting the 36 over the 44 as there is only a £10 difference in price. The bag also has a lot of the same features. It is just a bit bigger, which can come in handy. If you want Osprey, this would be my suggestion.
As I mentioned above, I think Osprey is a bit overpriced. Please let me know if anyone can explain why they are so much more than anyone else. I’m open to changing my opinion. Note, I don’t think that they are wrong, just expensive.
Specifications
- Weight: 1.4 kg
- Dimensions (CM) 74L / 33W / 26D
- Fabric ****100D x 210D Bluesign Recycled Robic Nylon
- External hydration access
- Internal key attachment clip
- Sternum strap with emergency whistle
- Side compression straps
- Reflective graphics
- Zippered top access
- Fully adjustable AirScap back panel with foam ridges for comfort and fit.
- Die-cut EVA harness
- Ice axe loop
- Internal mesh pockets
- Compatible with Hydraulics™ Reservoirs
- Padded hip belt
- Injection moulded Airscape HDPE back panel with EVA foam padding.
- Front power mesh pocket
Purchase from here.
5. Montane Synergy 30
Cost: £60 RRP
This is a great backpack. It is very versatile. I use it for small hikes and when I travel, as I can also fit my laptop in it. Along with that, it is great for hiking as it has a lot of pockets. This is handy because you can keep everything in its place, making things easier to find. The main downside to this is that it is pretty tiny. It also isn’t the comfiest on this list. Being a budget price, I 100% recommend that the other options are a little expensive.
Specifications
- Structured and ventilated back panel system – provides a secure fit.
- Storable webbing waist belt
- Front stretch pocket for external storage
- Suitcase-style front compartment opening with an internal compression system – allows easy access to valuables.
- Padded laptop, tablet and phone sleeves – built with anti-scratch lining
- Internal organisation pockets
- Reflective detailing – increases visibility.
- Hydration reservoir compatible
- Zippered side access pocket
- Maximum Dimensions: 50cm x 30cm x 25cm
- Capacity: 30 Litres
- Weight: 795g
Purchase from here.
I hope that we have helped with your search for backpacks. If you need any more help, please get in touch with contact us. We will do our best to help you out. If you have a suggestion for this list, please also contact us.
