15 Best Backpack Brands for Every Adventure

A reliable, comfortable backpack is an essential piece of gear, whether you‘re commuting to work, embarking on a weekend getaway, or trekking into the backcountry. But with so many brands and styles to choose from, finding the perfect pack can be a daunting task.

To help you in your search, we‘ve compiled this guide to the best backpack brands on the market. Drawing upon expert reviews, customer feedback, and rigorous product testing, we‘ll highlight each brand‘s strengths, most popular models, and ideal uses. You‘ll also find practical tips for selecting the right backpack for your body and lifestyle. Let‘s dive in!

The Top Backpack Brands

1. Osprey

Founded in 1974, Osprey is a leader in technical backpacks for outdoor adventures. All of their packs are designed with features like ventilated suspension, adjustable torso lengths, and integrated rain covers. Best-selling models include:

  • Atmos/Aura AG (hiking)
  • Farpoint/Fairview (travel)
  • Daylite (everyday use)

2. Deuter

German brand Deuter has been making backpacks and outdoor gear since 1898. They‘re known for their durable construction, comfortable fit, and thoughtful features like hydration compatibility and built-in rain covers. Popular models include:

  • Speed Lite (hiking)
  • Transit (travel)
  • UP Series (climbing and mountaineering)

3. The North Face

A staple in outdoor recreation since 1966, The North Face makes high-quality backpacks for everything from commuting to multi-day expeditions. They use sustainable materials and offer a lifetime warranty. Check out these top-rated packs:

  • Borealis (everyday use)
  • Terra (hiking)
  • Surge (laptop backpack)

4. Patagonia

Patagonia is an industry leader in environmental and social responsibility. Their durable, feature-rich backpacks are made with recycled materials in Fair Trade Certified factories. Best sellers include:

  • Refugio (everyday use)
  • Black Hole (travel)
  • Nine Trails (hiking)

Other top brands we recommend:
5. REI Co-op
6. Mammut
7. Arc‘teryx
8. Kelty
9. Granite Gear
10. Mystery Ranch
11. Fjallraven
12. Mountain Hardwear
13. Gregory
14. Hyperlite Mountain Gear
15. Gossamer Gear

How to Choose the Right Backpack

Consider these factors to find your ideal backpack:

Types of Backpacks

– Everyday use: Streamlined, stylish packs for work, school, and errands
– Hiking: Technical packs with supportive suspension systems and outdoor-specific features
– Travel: Carry-on compatible packs with organizational pockets and laptop sleeves
– Climbing/Mountaineering: Slim, durable packs that won‘t restrict movement

Size and Capacity

Backpack sizes typically range from 10-85+ liters. Consider both the bag‘s overall dimensions (to ensure proper torso fit) and capacity (to accommodate your gear). Some general guidelines:

  • Everyday use: 10-30 liters
  • Day hikes: 15-30 liters
  • Overnight/weekend trips: 30-50 liters
  • Extended backpacking: 50-70+ liters

Fit and Comfort

A good backpack should:
– Match your torso length (not necessarily your height)
– Sit comfortably on your hips with a supportive hip belt
– Have a breathable back panel and contoured shoulder straps
– Allow for adjustments to customize the fit

Features

Additional features to look for:
– Water bottle pockets and hydration reservoir compatibility
– Organizational compartments for laptop, tablet, etc.
– Integrated rain cover
– Compression straps
– Sternum strap and load lifters
– Attachment points for trekking poles and ice axes

Materials

Backpacks are typically made from nylon or polyester (or recycled versions thereof) with a water-resistant coating or waterproof membrane. Lightweight packs may use Ripstop fabrics, while ultra-durable models offer heavy-duty Cordura nylon.

Zippers, buckles, and straps should be sturdy and reliable. Look for packs with sufficient padding on the shoulder straps, hip belt, and back panel.

Sustainability

Many brands are incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices into their products. If sustainability is a priority for you, look for backpacks made with recycled fabrics, PFC-free DWR coatings, and Bluesign approved components. Some brands also participate in carbon offset programs and lifetime repair/recycle services.

Price

You can expect to spend anywhere from $30-$500+ on a backpack, depending on its intended use, size, features, and brand. In general, expect to pay:

  • $30-$100 for a quality everyday pack
  • $100-$200 for a hiking daypack
  • $100-$300 for a travel pack
  • $200-$500+ for expedition packs and specialty bags

While you don‘t need to spend a fortune to get a great backpack, investing in a higher-end model from a reputable brand often pays off in terms of durability, comfort, and performance.

The Best Backpack for You

The perfect backpack is the one that fits your body, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you‘re looking for a sleek everyday carry, a technical hiking pack, or a travel bag that can handle any terrain, you‘re sure to find a suitable option from one of these best backpack brands.

Remember to consider the type of activities you‘ll be using the pack for, the capacity you need, and any special features that are important to you. Don‘t hesitate to try on multiple styles and brands to find the most comfortable fit. With a little research and careful selection, your new backpack will be a trusty companion for many adventures to come.

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