{"id":1734,"date":"2023-12-19T11:01:47","date_gmt":"2023-12-19T11:01:47","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/?p=1734"},"modified":"2023-12-19T11:01:47","modified_gmt":"2023-12-19T11:01:47","slug":"best-backpacking-backpacks-of-2023-top-10","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/best-backpacking-backpacks-of-2023-top-10\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023 : Top 10"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best Overall Backpacking Backpack<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F201302%2Fosprey-atmos-ag-65-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319dcg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Osprey Atmos AG 65 ($340)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;4 lb. 9.8 oz.<br><strong>Fabric:&nbsp;<\/strong>Nylon (210D x 500D)<br><strong>Capacities:<\/strong>&nbsp;50, 65L<br><strong>What we like:&nbsp;<\/strong>A standout all-rounder with especially great ventilation.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:&nbsp;<\/strong>Pricey and fairly heavy at over 4.5 pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Atmos AG (and women\u2019s Aura AG) is our top backpacking backpack of the year, deftly balancing comfort, organization, and durability. The attention grabber is the \u201cAnti-Gravity\u201d suspended mesh backpanel, which replaces the protruding foam found on more traditional designs to maximize both ventilation and comfort. But that\u2019s not all the Atmos has going for it: The pocket design is thoughtfully laid out with plenty of options to divvy up gear, the Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt offer an easily customizable fit, and the premium materials hold up well to rough treatment. Overall, the Atmos is an extremely well-rounded backpack that works great for anything from quick overnight trips to extended jaunts into the backcountry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a revamp in the spring of 2022, the most recent Atmos tacks on two side zips for more convenient access to the main compartment, a torso length adjustment, and an integrated raincover. Osprey also modified the pack\u2019s fabrics to prioritize sustainability (like a lot of gear manufacturers, they\u2019ve moved to a PFC-free durable water repellent finish). Subsequently, the Atmos AG 65 also got a price bump, which surprisingly makes it even pricier than the souped-up Aether below. But you won\u2019t find a better balance of weight, carrying comfort, and features for everything from quick overnight missions to week-long backpacking trips, once more earning the Atmos AG 65 a spot at the top of our list. It\u2019s also worth mentioning the relatively new\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tool_type=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F210155%2Fosprey-atmos-ag-lt-65-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319hid\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Atmos AG LT 65<\/a>\u00a0($290; 4 lb. 1 oz.), which streamlines the design but still offers the same comfort and carrying capacity of the original pack&#8230;\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.switchbacktravel.com\/reviews\/osprey-atmos-ag-65\"><em>Read in-depth review<\/em><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F201302%2Fosprey-atmos-ag-65-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319cja\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Men&#8217;s Osprey Atmos AG 65<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F201305%2Fosprey-aura-ag-65-pack-womens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319jji\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Women&#8217;s Osprey Aura AG 65<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best Ultralight Backpacking Backpack<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2.&nbsp;<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319fjf&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F151849%2Fhyperlite-mountain-gear-southwest-55-pack\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 ($379)<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weight:&nbsp;<\/strong>1 lb. 15.6 oz.<br><strong>Fabric:&nbsp;<\/strong>Dyneema (50D &amp; 150D)<br><strong>Capacities:&nbsp;<\/strong>40, 55, 70L<br><strong>What we like:&nbsp;<\/strong>Impressively light but strong and can carry a full load.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:&nbsp;<\/strong>Expensive and minimal organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A number of ultralight packs are designed for thru-hikers and minimalists, but our top pick is the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55. What sets the Southwest apart is its fully Dyneema construction, which offers incredible strength and water resistance at a very low weight. Ounce-counters won\u2019t find a more streamlined yet hardwearing design, and compared to the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra below (another popular UL pack), the thicker body fabric (5.0 oz\/sqyd vs. 3.3 oz\/sqyd) offers significantly more durability. Tack on a firm foam backpanel and aluminum stays, and the Southwest handles heavy loads with relative ease. For the whole enchilada at just a smidge under 2 pounds, it\u2019s no wonder it\u2019s one of the most popular UL packs on the trail. And Hyperlite offers a range of other options, with the primary difference being the external pocket fabric\u2014the Windrider, for example, has mesh pockets and is a great choice for those who want to dry gear out on the go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At 55 liters, the Southwest (which also comes in 40 and 70L versions) has the capacity to take on seriously long trips and has become a go-to pack for thru-hikers. In our hands, it has seen duty as an overnight and multi-day backpacking pack as well as a packrafting dry bag. The design is undeniably basic, with only the main compartment and a few exterior pockets for organization, and the Dyneema-lined backpanel falls short in terms of breathability. But the Southwest is still one of the most uncompromised options available, and there\u2019s no denying the trail style you get with that premium Dyneema white. Finally, it\u2019s also worth mentioning\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=13582&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319bbc&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hyperlitemountaingear.com%2Fproducts%2Funbound-55\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hyperlite\u2019s Unbound 55<\/a>\u00a0($399), which is a touch lighter, less torpedo-like, and offers a few more features (including external daisy chains, stretchy pockets, and a removable, reverse-pull hipbelt), but gives up a little support with just a single stay (compared to the Southwest\u2019s two)&#8230;\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.switchbacktravel.com\/reviews\/hyperlite-mountain-gear-2400-southwest\"><em>Read in-depth review<\/em><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319gfc&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F151849%2Fhyperlite-mountain-gear-southwest-55-pack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Hyperlite Southwest 55<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Our Favorite Pack for Hauling Heavy Loads<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F203236%2Fgregory-baltoro-75-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319ejg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Gregory Baltoro 75 ($360)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weight:&nbsp;<\/strong>4 lb. 15.7 oz.<br><strong>Fabric:&nbsp;<\/strong>Nylon (210D &amp; 420D)<br><strong>Capacities:&nbsp;<\/strong>65, 75L<br><strong>What we like:&nbsp;<\/strong>Heavy hauling comfort with a great feature set.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:&nbsp;<\/strong>Pretty heavy and overkill for minimalists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gregory has earned a reputation for comfort over the years, and their flagship men\u2019s Baltoro and women\u2019s Deva packs carry on the tradition. These bags are intended to haul heavy loads with strong suspensions, firm but supportive padding, and excellent organization. With a fully mesh backpanel, the most recent version is the best-ventilated iteration yet, and the hip-hugging suspension and pivoting shoulder straps keep the pack stable when hiking over uneven terrain. We also appreciate the generous storage layout for shuttling multi-day loads, including nine exterior pockets, U-shaped front access to the main compartment, and massive hipbelt pockets (made even larger in the latest update) that easily swallow a large smartphone.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We tested the revamped Baltoro 75 while trekking in Patagonia, and the pack stayed true to its intentions as one of the most comfortable and feature-rich designs on the market. Along with the changes outlined above, the latest version also includes a highly customizable hipbelt and shoulder straps (great for achieving a perfect fit), drops the built-in Sidekick daypack (not a big loss, in our eyes), and uses more recycled materials. But as before, the Baltoro\u2019s biggest downside is its weight: The 75-liter model clocks in around 5 pounds, which is about twice the heft of the 70-liter Hyperlite Southwest. In short, if you aim to keep things light and simple on a backpacking trip, this probably isn\u2019t the pack for you. But if you plan to carry 40 pounds or more, the Baltoro will shoulder the load better than most\u2014and chances are you won\u2019t notice the extra pound or two&#8230;\u00a0<em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.switchbacktravel.com\/reviews\/gregory-baltoro-75\">Read in-depth review<\/a><\/em><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F203236%2Fgregory-baltoro-75-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319efc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Men&#8217;s Gregory Baltoro 75<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F203241%2Fgregory-deva-70-pack-womens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319dia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Women&#8217;s Gregory Deva 70<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best Balance of Comfort and Lightweight<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319ice&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F201303%2Fosprey-exos-58-pack-mens\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Osprey Exos 58 ($260)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;2 lb. 13.4 oz.<br><strong>Fabric:<\/strong>&nbsp;Nylon (100D &amp; 400D)<br><strong>Capacities:<\/strong>&nbsp;38, 48, 58L<br><strong>What we like:<\/strong>&nbsp;Excellent mix of carrying comfort, ventilation, and build quality at a reasonable weight.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:&nbsp;<\/strong>Heavy and overly complicated for many minimalists and thru-hikers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Osprey is a backpack powerhouse known for quality builds, excellent organization, and comfort, as seen in industry-leading designs like the Atmos\/Aura above. First released over a decade ago, the Exos (and women\u2019s Eja) was their original take on an ultralight pack, and is still a popular pick in this category. At 2 pounds 13.4 ounces for the 58-liter version, it can\u2019t compete with streamlined haulers like the Hyperlite Southwest and Gossamer Gear Mariposa (both check in just under 2 lb.), but the additional weight translates to a boost in organizational features, carrying comfort, and ventilation. And with a spring 2022 update, the most recent Exos tacks on a convenient torso-length adjustment and reintroduces hipbelt pockets to the design (surprisingly, these had been removed in the previous version).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re accustomed to a traditional backpack but curious about dipping into the ultralight world, we think the Exos is one of the best places to start. With a robust suspension system and decent feature set, this pack isn&#8217;t a true UL design, but it\u2019s nevertheless significantly lighter and more streamlined than a pack like the Atmos above. And held up against the similarly intentioned Gregory Focal (below), the Exos tacks on a few more bells and whistles (including the adjustable torso length), and features a slightly more plush backpanel. You do trade off a bit of durability compared to burly traditional haulers or pricier ultralight designs (which generally use Dyneema or tough Robic nylon), but we\u2019ve been surprised with how well the Exos\u2019 100-denier body and base have held up. For an even more streamlined design from Osprey, check out the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319ihf&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F218552%2Fosprey-exos-pro-55-pack-mens\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Exos Pro 55<\/a>\u00a0($290), which weighs in at just 2 pounds 1.2 ounces but offers a fairly bare-bones suspension and feature set&#8230;\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.switchbacktravel.com\/reviews\/osprey-exos-58\"><em>Read in-depth review<\/em><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319bic&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F201303%2Fosprey-exos-58-pack-mens\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Men&#8217;s Osprey Exos 58<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319igd&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F201307%2Fosprey-eja-58-pack-womens\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Women&#8217;s Osprey Eja 58<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best Plus-Size Backpacking Backpack<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319hgb&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F187526%2Fgregory-katmai-65-pack-mens-plus-sizes\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Gregory Katmai 65 Plus Size ($310)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;5 lb.<br><strong>Fabric:&nbsp;<\/strong>Nylon (210D &amp; 420D)<br><strong>Capacity:<\/strong>&nbsp;65L<br><strong>What we like:&nbsp;<\/strong>Thoughtful and adjustable design built specifically for plus-size backpackers.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:&nbsp;<\/strong>Only one capacity and color option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Up until very recently, it\u2019s been difficult (if not impossible) to find backpacking gear in plus sizes, which has excluded many from enjoying the outdoors. Gregory was one of the first companies to right this wrong, offering their fully featured Katmai 65 (and women\u2019s Kalmia 60) in two plus sizes. The Katmai 65 Plus Size features extended-length straps, a fully adjustable torso length and hipbelt, and places the hipbelt pockets right at the hips where they belong. Gregory states that the two Plus Size offerings accommodate those who typically fit 2X to 6X clothing, and you can&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gregorypacks.com\/plussizeguide.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">read more about their sizing here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We were happy to see that Gregory chose the Katmai to bring to their plus-size audience, as it\u2019s one of the most comfortable, fully featured, and durable packs in their lineup. Its padded, rotating harness moves with your body over rocky and rooted trails, and the suspended mesh backpanel keeps air flowing on hot days. Top, side, and bottom access to the main compartment make it easy to locate items inside, and a front zippered pocket with a mesh divider is a great place for odds and ends. And while Gregory specifies a 45-pound load limit, our tester found that the Katmai deftly distributed the weight of 50 pounds of gear. Finally, if you\u2019re comparison shopping, it\u2019s also worth checking out the Extended Fit versions of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=16517&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319cgh&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.osprey.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fproduct%2Faether-65-extended-fit-AETHER65S23EF.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Osprey\u2019s Aether<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=16517&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319ahg&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.osprey.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fproduct%2Fariel-65-extended-fit-ARIEL65S23EF_263.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ariel<\/a>, which offer similar sizing and features&#8230;\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.switchbacktravel.com\/reviews\/gregory-katmai-65\"><em>Read in-depth review<\/em><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319adg&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F187526%2Fgregory-katmai-65-pack-mens-plus-sizes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Men&#8217;s Gregory Katmai 65 Plus<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=52463&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319fgi&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F187527%2Fgregory-kalmia-60-pack-womens-plus-sizes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Women&#8217;s Gregory Kalmia 60 Plus<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best Budget Backpacking Backpack<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F217409%2Frei-co-op-trailmade-60-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319cbc\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">REI Co-op Trailmade 60 ($169)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;3 lb. 6 oz.<br><strong>Fabric:<\/strong>&nbsp;Nylon<br><strong>Capacity:<\/strong>&nbsp;60L<br><strong>What we like:<\/strong>&nbsp;Decent performance for just $169; sizing is very adjustable.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:&nbsp;<\/strong>Cheap materials and budget-feeling fit and finish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For value seekers or those just dipping their toes into backpacking, REI\u2019s in-house collection is a really nice place to start. The new-for-2023 Trailmade 60 is far from the most premium pack we\u2019ve tested\u2014in fact, it carries the vibe of a 90\u2019s-era hauler\u2014but it certainly gets the job done: We found the suspension to be relatively comfortable on a challenging overnight trip, and organization was good with a roomy main compartment, dedicated sleeping bag storage, and six external pockets. For just $169, the Trailmade 60 is an excellent pick for beginners or those who get out just a few times a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What do you give up by choosing REI\u2019s entry-level pack over the pricier options on this list? In short, the fit and finish is what one would expect from a $169 pack\u2014materials are obviously cheap, the shove-it pockets don\u2019t stretch as well as mesh alternatives, and we expect the squishy foam on the hipbelt, shoulder straps, and backpanel to lose its soft feel fairly quickly. Additionally, the one-size-fits-most torso adjustment (two hipbelt sizes are offered that accommodate S to 4XL) results in a less tailored feel compared to packs that are made in multiple sizes. On the other hand, this adjustability makes this pack a great one to share. Summed up, if you\u2019re a new or casual backpacker in the market for a no-frills pack, the REI Trailmade 60 gets our nod as the best budget design of the year.<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F217409%2Frei-co-op-trailmade-60-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319jaa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Men&#8217;s REI Co-op Trailmade 60<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F217410%2Frei-co-op-trailmade-60-pack-womens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319gje\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Women&#8217;s REI Co-op Trailmade 60<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best of the Rest<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F146630%2Fgranite-gear-blaze-60-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319gid\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Granite Gear Blaze 60 ($300)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Weight:&nbsp;3 lb.<br><strong>Fabric:<\/strong>&nbsp;Robic nylon (100D &amp; 210D)<br><strong>Capacity:&nbsp;<\/strong>60L<br><strong>What we like:&nbsp;<\/strong>Excellent mix of carrying comfort, organization, and weight.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:<\/strong>&nbsp;Durability and back ventilation can\u2019t match the Atmos AG above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Blaze 60 is Granite Gear\u2019s flagship piece, combining heavy-hauling credentials and functional organization at a 3-pound weight. We took the pack on a difficult trek through the Grand Canyon and were pleased with its overall performance. The pack\u2019s sturdy frame sheet and substantial padding on the hipbelt and shoulder straps carried a full load extremely well (it\u2019s rated for 50 pounds), and the zippered opening to the main compartment made it easy to access our gear. Further, the oversized front and side exterior pockets are extremely functional (you can fit two standard water bottles in one side pocket). Most impressively, the Blaze pulls this off while undercutting most of the competition by a pound or more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What\u2019s not to like with the Blaze 60? The padded backpanel favors comfort and support over breathability, and we found it to be stiffer and warmer than a mesh-heavy design like the Atmos above. Moreover, it takes some practice (and patience) to get the shoulder straps and hipbelt adjusted. In particular, reaching behind the frame sheet to remove and reinsert the shoulder strap clips was a pain. But these are small nitpicks, and the Blaze\u2019s well-rounded build makes it one of our favorite packs on the market&#8230;\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.switchbacktravel.com\/reviews\/granite-gear-blaze-60\"><em>Read in-depth review<\/em><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F146630%2Fgranite-gear-blaze-60-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319eaf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Men&#8217;s Granite Gear Blaze 60<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F146742%2Fgranite-gear-blaze-60-pack-womens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319jjb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Women&#8217;s Granite Gear Blaze 60<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F203234%2Fgregory-focal-58-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319iea\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Gregory Focal 58 ($250)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weight:&nbsp;<\/strong>2 lb. 10.4 oz.<br><strong>Fabric:&nbsp;<\/strong>Nylon (100D &amp; 210D)<br><strong>Capacities:<\/strong>&nbsp;48, 58L<br><strong>What we like:<\/strong>&nbsp;If it fits, this is a strong alternative to the Exos above.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:&nbsp;<\/strong>No torso length adjustment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Replacing the well-loved Optic, Gregory\u2019s Focal (and women\u2019s-specific Facet) highlights the brand\u2019s premium ethos in an ultralight package. The pack drops weight with stripped-down features and simple organization, but comfort remains a priority: The body-hugging hipbelt, lightweight aluminum frame, and full mesh backpanel offer significantly more support than the streamlined suspension systems typically found on minimalist packs. You\u2019ll still want to make sure the rest of your gear is appropriately pared down\u2014especially if you\u2019re opting for the 48-liter version\u2014but the good news is there\u2019s no shortage of ultralight tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and other UL gear to choose from.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Focal goes head-to-head with Osprey\u2019s Exos above, which is the long-standing favorite in this category. Both packs come in 48- and 58-liter versions (the Exos is also available in a 38L option) and check in around the same price (the Exos is $10 more for the 58L). But the Focal is lighter by a few ounces, carries just as well, and features a simpler design that\u2019s a bit easier to pack. The potential hangup, however, is that the Gregory lacks any torso adjustability. This isn\u2019t especially noteworthy compared to ultralight designs\u2014packs like the Hyperlite Southwest also feature fixed torso lengths\u2014but it\u2019s an undeniable shortcoming compared to the Exos. Gripes aside, if the Focal fits (it\u2019s available in three sizes), it\u2019s an excellent option for weight-conscious backpackers looking for a step up from a true UL design&#8230;\u00a0<em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.switchbacktravel.com\/reviews\/gregory-facet-55\">Read in-depth review<\/a><\/em><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F203234%2Fgregory-focal-58-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319dhc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Men&#8217;s Gregory Focal 58<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F203242%2Fgregory-facet-55-pack-womens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319fgc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Women&#8217;s Gregory Facet 55<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/ula-equipment.9xrw.net\/ZnbG0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">ULA Equipment Circuit 68 ($280)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;2 lb. 9 oz.<br><strong>Fabric:<\/strong>&nbsp;Robic nylon (210D)<br><strong>Capacity:<\/strong>&nbsp;68L<br><strong>What we like:&nbsp;<\/strong>A thru-hiker favorite with functional organization, good comfort, and decent durability.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:&nbsp;<\/strong>Not as water resistant as a Dyneema pack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Utah-based ULA Equipment has gone from a relative unknown to a darling of the PCT and AT in only a few short years. Leading the charge is their 68-liter Circuit, which offers an excellent compromise of weight, durability, and functionality for the thru-hiking crowd and those who keep their loads under 30 pounds. The design is undeniably minimalist but retains good organization with a very large front mesh pocket, zippered hipbelt compartments, and an internal secure stash. We\u2019ve taken the Circuit on multi-day treks in Patagonia and up 14ers in Colorado, and have been impressed with how easy it is to load up, adjust, and even streamline as a day pack when needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although the ULA Circuit doesn\u2019t have that coveted Dyneema distinction, its 210-denier Robic nylon has proven to be very abrasion resistant, and is actually less prone to punctures than the Hyperlite and Zpacks designs (in our experience, Dyneema has a greater tendency to form small holes in between the fibers). What\u2019s more, with a carbon fiber suspension, aluminum stay, and rigid foam backpanel, the Circuit is fully capable of utilizing its generous 68-liter capacity. To top it off, the ULA is offered in an impressive range of sizes, and you can customize the torso length, hipbelt size, and shoulder strap style to meet your needs. If you\u2019re willing to give up the water resistance, slight weight savings, and brand cachet of the Hyperlite, it\u2019s likely you won\u2019t be disappointed with the Circuit\u2014and it\u2019s a great value at just $280.<br><a href=\"https:\/\/ula-equipment.9xrw.net\/ZnbG0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the ULA Equipment Circuit 68<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F159408%2Fgregory-paragon-58-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319eff\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Gregory Paragon 58 ($260)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weight:&nbsp;<\/strong>3 lb. 9.3 oz.<br><strong>Fabric:&nbsp;<\/strong>Nylon (100D, 210D, &amp; 420D)<br><strong>Capacities:<\/strong>&nbsp;48, 58, 68L<br><strong>What we like:&nbsp;<\/strong>Well-balanced design with a useful feature set.<br><strong>What we don\u2019t:<\/strong>&nbsp;Heavier but no more comfortable than the Blaze above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It doesn\u2019t get much more premium than Gregory\u2019s Baltoro above, but a strong case can be made for a more affordable and lightweight design like the Paragon. At 3 pounds 9 ounces and a reasonable $260, the Paragon 58 is a great option for smaller loads (it comes in 48, 58, and 68-liter versions) and those looking to save. You don\u2019t get the same level of padding or organization as the Baltoro, but the pack offers easy fit adjustments, plenty of mesh along the backpanel to help you stay cool, and a quality feel overall with sturdy zippers and supportive foam. And the Paragon doesn\u2019t skimp on useful extras either, with features like a rain cover, large mesh front pocket, and a bear canister-friendly wide shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With an all-rounder design that finds a nice middle ground between stripped-down UL models and heavy comfort-first haulers, the Paragon goes head-to-head with a pack like the Osprey Atmos above. But while the Gregory gets the edge in weight (it\u2019s almost 1 pound less) and price, the Osprey is the better pack when it comes to comfort, exterior storage, and ventilation. Further, the Atmos has a higher end feel and more durable construction with a thicker body fabric (210D x 500D vs. the Paragon\u2019s 100D). One final note: It\u2019s also worth checking out Gregory\u2019s Zulu 65 ($270), which offers top-notch ventilation but (in our experience) comes up short in terms of carrying comfort&#8230;\u00a0<em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.switchbacktravel.com\/reviews\/gregory-paragon\">Read in-depth review<\/a><\/em><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F159408%2Fgregory-paragon-58-pack-mens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319dei\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Men&#8217;s Gregory Paragon 58<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=3968c905-b99c-41db-88ba-2eae2df15057&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F159409%2Fgregory-maven-55-pack-womens&amp;ctc=xid:fr1702983422319gcg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the Women&#8217;s Gregory Maven 55<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This content comes from: https:\/\/www.switchbacktravel.com\/best-backpacking-backpacks<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Best Overall Backpacking Backpack 1.\u00a0Osprey Atmos AG 65 ($340) Weight:&nbsp;4 lb. 9.8 oz.Fabric:&nbsp;Nylon (210D x 500D)Capacities:&nbsp;50, 65LWhat we like:&nbsp;A standout all-rounder with especially great ventilation.What we don\u2019t:&nbsp;Pricey and fairly heavy at over 4.5 pounds. The Atmos AG (and women\u2019s Aura AG) is our top backpacking backpack of the year, deftly balancing comfort, organization, and durability. &hellip;<\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more\"> <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/best-backpacking-backpacks-of-2023-top-10\/\"> <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023 : Top 10<\/span> Read More &raquo;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1735,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[8],"class_list":["post-1734","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-tips","tag-reviews"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1734","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1734"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1734\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1736,"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1734\/revisions\/1736"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1735"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1734"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1734"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/me21tg.leedsnewmedia.net\/wordpress2\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1734"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}