With a pack like the Osprey Atmos AG 50/Aura AG 50, youll need to keep your packed weight low, stick to the essentials, and be sure to use the aforementioned compressible gear. And Hyperlite offers a range of other options, with the primary difference being the external pocket fabricthe Windrider, for example, has mesh pockets and is a great choice for those who want to dry gear out on the go. First released over a decade ago, the Exos (and womens Eja) was their original take on an ultralight pack, and is still a popular pick in this category. Gone are the days when backpacking consisted of strapping on a huge external frame and lumbering through the forest with an aching body. But in terms of premium haulers the Aether has a lot to offer, and those lugging heavy loads will appreciate the durable, sturdy build. Alternatively, if youre into minimalism and ultralight gear, you can get away with a corresponding lightweight pack. 
With a smart design available in five different colors, it is designed primarily as a diaper bag backpack, with insulated packets for milk and elasticated sections to store all the items youll need when you are out and about with your baby. At 55 liters, the 3400 (for 3400 cubic inches) has the capacity to take on seriously long trips and has become a go-to pack for thru-hikers. These are especially useful for keeping the load stable and evenly distributed key factors that make this backpack good for your back.
However, two useful items missing on the Glacier are hipbelt pockets and a large mesh shove-it pocket on the back. Centrifugal forces can thus hardly act and the backpack does not break out. As the miles add up, youll likely notice its suspension system, back ventilation, and cushioning cant match the premium feel of the packs above or even the brands own Traverse 70 below. Note, some manufacturers also provide load ratings for their packs, which is another helpful reference point.
Whats more, with a carbon fiber suspension, aluminum stay, and rigid foam backpanel, the Circuit is fully capable of utilizing its generous 68-liter capacity. Ergonomically shaped Contact back cushions provide carrying comfort that relieves the back while keeping the weight of the load close to the body and distributing it evenly. When used for this purpose we especially like a system like REI's Packmodseen on the Traverse 60 and Flash 55 packswhich allows you to move the straps to your preferred height via a series of daisy chains (or remove them altogether). Well made and very spacious, this backpack also has an external USB port with a built-in charging cable. But we have very few gripes about the Futura Air Trek, and Deuters long-standing experience in the pack-making business makes it yet another quality choice for backpackers looking for a great mix of comfort, organization, and breathability.See the Deuter Futura Air Trek 50+10See theDeuter Futura Air Trek 45+10 SL. For short treks into the backcountry with kids in tow, the Coyote is well-equipped, but it cant match the carrying comfort and build quality of a more premium option.
Its not to say internal framed packs arent improving, however, with numerous access points and creative packaging. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly.
Now find the system that suits you best! Its now grown into a full-fledged market, popular amongst thru-hikers and recreational hikers alike. Channels between the cushions as well the breathable, sturdy 3D Airmesh lining provide pleasant ventilation. And while brands like Hyperlite and Zpacks use Dyneema to cut weight, the Gossamer Gears tough Robic nylon (similar to the ULAs but thinner) keeps cost in check and does a great job resisting punctures (downside: youll have to add your own waterproofing in the form of a pack cover or dry bags inside). A heavier pack is logically most often capable of hauling more weight. Finally, the Traverse 60 drops 10 ounces off the previous 70-liter version but retains great durability, with burly 300-denier recycled ripstop nylon throughout. 4 oz.Fabric: Nylon (300D)Capacities: 32, 60LWhat we like: Durable materials and a lid that converts into a day pack.What we dont: Cheap padding and limited access to the main compartment. 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. Its also equipped with a laptop sleeve, waterproof fabric, and a detachable daypack for when you only need to leave home with your essentials. If you dont have a waterproof backpack (chances are you wont), its a good idea take a few extra precautions to make sure your gear stays dry. Keep all your toiletries safe in one place. 
4.3oz.Fabric: Dyneema (3.1oz/sqyd)Capacity:55LWhat we like: Incredibly lightweight and water resistant.What we dont: Not very durable and doesnt carry loads as well as the other UL packs here. We took the Flash on an ambitious winter backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon and were overall very pleased with the level of comfort and organization despite the lightweight build. Trends in backpacks these days err towards minimalism and thoughtful, ergonomic design. Up to 25 % less perspiration thanks to the maximum ventilation achieved by the Aircomfort mesh construction. The primary downside of the Aether 65 is its weight, which squeezes in just under 5 pounds. This cottage industry was built by thru-hikers who werent satisfied with the heavy gear being made by traditional backpacking brands. Additional access to the bottom or middle of the pack via a u-shaped zipper can be a big help, keeping you from having to shovel through a once-meticulously organized pack to find some elusive item. with a large frame and medium hipbelt). From behind, the Aerios has all of the hallmarks of an ultralight pack, including a cavernous main compartment with roll-top closure, generous dump pockets, and an exterior bungee and daisy chain. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. For the whole enchilada at just a smidge over 2 pounds, its no wonder its one of the most popular UL packs on the trail. But we do appreciate the Paragons full-length side zip, which offers better access to the main compartment. Arcteryx has long been our go-to for lightweight ski and climbing packs, but the Aerios marks their entry into the ultralight backpacking world. Weight: 2 lbs. But for over 6 ounces less, the Crown3 is undeniably an excellent ultralight build and one of the better values on the market at $220. For a very lightweight option that still has supportive chest and hip straps, Dr. Griffiths recommends re-investing in your middle school go-to. 9.8 oz.Fabric: Nylon (210D x 500D)Capacities: 50, 65LWhat we like: An incredible all-rounder with especially great ventilation.What we dont: Pricey and fairly heavy at over 4.5 pounds. If you are looking for travel backpacks that are good for your back but allow you to carry a decent amount of weight, look no further than the YOREPEK. On small to medium backpacks that are at home in easier terrain we go for maximum ventilation. Able to carry loads of up to 50 lbs, it has a U-shaped main compartment with a 55L capacity, plus a laptop and tablet sleeve with lockable zippered access. The Blaze 60 is Granite Gears flagship piece, combining heavy-hauling credentials and functional organization at a 3-pound weight. What sets it apart is how few compromises there are with this 2-pound 0.7-ounce bag (ours is 2 lbs. Levity), but its nevertheless significantly lighter and more streamlined than a pack like the Atmos above. Whats more, while we appreciated the breathability and comfort of the hanging mesh backpanel, it can be a polarizing design: On our womens 45+10 SL model in particular, there was a notable 2 inches of space between the pack body and our back. And recently, even household names like REI Co-op and Gregory have thrown their hat into the ring with designs like the Flash and Focal/Facet, giving backpackers more ultralight options than ever. Furthermore, our Aircontact cushions made from special hollow chamber foam guarantee fantastic ventilation due to the pump effect of every movement. Weight: 3 lbs. We recently 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. That said, you do get a bit less capacity without any significant weight savings over the 4-pound-10-ounce Atmos. Make sure to match your pack's capacity to your type of gear you'll be bringing. This backpack is perfect for long trips as it has a luggage strap that slides over the upright handle of your suitcase, making it easy to carry and taking the load off your back for a while. For example, the Osprey Atmos comes in sizes small/mediumand large/extra-large, with the former built to fit those with torso lengths of 17to 20.5 inches. And because Dyneema isnt particularly breathable, the Southwest isnt our top pick for hot-weather hiking. But finding an internal framed pack that breathes well can be a challenge, primarily because the point of a pack is to hug and conform to your body, moving with you as you walk. Whether youre a first-time backpacker or a seasoned veteran, everyone could use a good list to make sure theyre prepared when they head out on the trail. Osprey is a backpack powerhouse known for quality builds, excellent organization, and comfort, as seen in industry-leading designs like the Atmos/Aura and Aether/Ariel above. Theres no shortage of good competition in the ultralight pack market, but the Gossamer Gear is nevertheless a strong contender, and especially for those who like to stay organizedRead in-depth reviewSee the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60. From the current lineup, we prefer the heavy-hauling Glacier, which is built to handle rough, expedition-level use and comes loaded with creative design touches. We wouldnt recommend carrying much more, however, as the padding is pretty minimal (the Southwest and Circuit above are better for thru-hikers carrying heavier loads). The recently updated Crown is the most comfortable yet, featuring a new compression-molded PE frame sheet and molded foam backpanel. We prefer foam that errs towards firm support rather than being soft and compressible. Compression Straps But thats not all the Atmos has going for it: The pocket design is thoughtfully laid out with plenty of options to divvy up gear, the new Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt offer an easily customizable fit, and the premium materials hold up well to rough treatment. Lots of storage space, pockets, and a key fob hook make it easy to keep everything organized, whilst a built-in USB charger on the outside makes it possible to charge your phone from a power pack as you walk. Further, we love the fit system on the hipbelt, which can be adjusted to your exact waist measurement with Granite Gears updated Re-Fit system. That said, the REI does fall a little short of some other packs in its weight class: The Focal 48 above (which also comes in a 58L version) has a more thoughtfully built suspension system, which translates to improved ventilation and greater comfort, especially with a heavier load (REI lists the Flashs weight limit at 15-30 lbs., while the Focal 58s is 35 lbs.). Although ideal for daily use, it comes into its own when used for traveling as it has so many cool features! Multiple pockets, lots of storage, USB charging and an internal belt for your laptop all combine to make this a great multi-purpose backpack! The Focal goes head-to-head with Ospreys Exos below, which is the long-standing favorite in this category. 10 oz.Fabric: Nylon (100D & 420D)Capacities: 55LWhat we like: Light, customizable, and a great value.What we dont: Comfort and ventilation fall short of more premium designs. Moving down, your iliac crest can be located by putting your hands on top of your hips (thumbs at back). Reduced to the essential, they are ideal for comfortably carrying light to medium loads depending on the volume. Its 30-liter capacity limits how much weight youre carrying on your back, which mean you wont be able to load it up to the point of causing pain.
Tack on a firm foam backpanel and aluminum stays, and the Southwest handles heavy loads with relative ease. Then make sure to get a correspondingly cavernous pack. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. In addition to streamlined storage, they shed pounds with thin yet premium materials (Dyneema and Robic nylon are common) and minimalist suspension systems that generally include an aluminum stay and foam backpanel. And finally, when it comes to materials, Dr. Griffiths suggests choosing something lightweight, made from either cotton or vinyl, with padded straps and a padded back. If it sits too low (with the bulk of the backpack near your low back or hips), your spinal muscles will compensate, which leads to back pain and fatigue in other parts of your body, says Renda. Utah-based ULA Equipment has gone from a relative unknown to a darling of the PCT and AT in only a few short years.
With a smart design available in five different colors, it is designed primarily as a diaper bag backpack, with insulated packets for milk and elasticated sections to store all the items youll need when you are out and about with your baby. At 55 liters, the 3400 (for 3400 cubic inches) has the capacity to take on seriously long trips and has become a go-to pack for thru-hikers. These are especially useful for keeping the load stable and evenly distributed key factors that make this backpack good for your back. However, two useful items missing on the Glacier are hipbelt pockets and a large mesh shove-it pocket on the back. Centrifugal forces can thus hardly act and the backpack does not break out. As the miles add up, youll likely notice its suspension system, back ventilation, and cushioning cant match the premium feel of the packs above or even the brands own Traverse 70 below. Note, some manufacturers also provide load ratings for their packs, which is another helpful reference point.
Whats more, with a carbon fiber suspension, aluminum stay, and rigid foam backpanel, the Circuit is fully capable of utilizing its generous 68-liter capacity. Ergonomically shaped Contact back cushions provide carrying comfort that relieves the back while keeping the weight of the load close to the body and distributing it evenly. When used for this purpose we especially like a system like REI's Packmodseen on the Traverse 60 and Flash 55 packswhich allows you to move the straps to your preferred height via a series of daisy chains (or remove them altogether). Well made and very spacious, this backpack also has an external USB port with a built-in charging cable. But we have very few gripes about the Futura Air Trek, and Deuters long-standing experience in the pack-making business makes it yet another quality choice for backpackers looking for a great mix of comfort, organization, and breathability.See the Deuter Futura Air Trek 50+10See theDeuter Futura Air Trek 45+10 SL. For short treks into the backcountry with kids in tow, the Coyote is well-equipped, but it cant match the carrying comfort and build quality of a more premium option. Its not to say internal framed packs arent improving, however, with numerous access points and creative packaging. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly.
Now find the system that suits you best! Its now grown into a full-fledged market, popular amongst thru-hikers and recreational hikers alike. Channels between the cushions as well the breathable, sturdy 3D Airmesh lining provide pleasant ventilation. And while brands like Hyperlite and Zpacks use Dyneema to cut weight, the Gossamer Gears tough Robic nylon (similar to the ULAs but thinner) keeps cost in check and does a great job resisting punctures (downside: youll have to add your own waterproofing in the form of a pack cover or dry bags inside). A heavier pack is logically most often capable of hauling more weight. Finally, the Traverse 60 drops 10 ounces off the previous 70-liter version but retains great durability, with burly 300-denier recycled ripstop nylon throughout. 4 oz.Fabric: Nylon (300D)Capacities: 32, 60LWhat we like: Durable materials and a lid that converts into a day pack.What we dont: Cheap padding and limited access to the main compartment. 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. Its also equipped with a laptop sleeve, waterproof fabric, and a detachable daypack for when you only need to leave home with your essentials. If you dont have a waterproof backpack (chances are you wont), its a good idea take a few extra precautions to make sure your gear stays dry. Keep all your toiletries safe in one place. 4.3oz.Fabric: Dyneema (3.1oz/sqyd)Capacity:55LWhat we like: Incredibly lightweight and water resistant.What we dont: Not very durable and doesnt carry loads as well as the other UL packs here. We took the Flash on an ambitious winter backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon and were overall very pleased with the level of comfort and organization despite the lightweight build. Trends in backpacks these days err towards minimalism and thoughtful, ergonomic design. Up to 25 % less perspiration thanks to the maximum ventilation achieved by the Aircomfort mesh construction. The primary downside of the Aether 65 is its weight, which squeezes in just under 5 pounds. This cottage industry was built by thru-hikers who werent satisfied with the heavy gear being made by traditional backpacking brands. Additional access to the bottom or middle of the pack via a u-shaped zipper can be a big help, keeping you from having to shovel through a once-meticulously organized pack to find some elusive item. with a large frame and medium hipbelt). From behind, the Aerios has all of the hallmarks of an ultralight pack, including a cavernous main compartment with roll-top closure, generous dump pockets, and an exterior bungee and daisy chain. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. For the whole enchilada at just a smidge over 2 pounds, its no wonder its one of the most popular UL packs on the trail. But we do appreciate the Paragons full-length side zip, which offers better access to the main compartment. Arcteryx has long been our go-to for lightweight ski and climbing packs, but the Aerios marks their entry into the ultralight backpacking world. Weight: 2 lbs. But for over 6 ounces less, the Crown3 is undeniably an excellent ultralight build and one of the better values on the market at $220. For a very lightweight option that still has supportive chest and hip straps, Dr. Griffiths recommends re-investing in your middle school go-to. 9.8 oz.Fabric: Nylon (210D x 500D)Capacities: 50, 65LWhat we like: An incredible all-rounder with especially great ventilation.What we dont: Pricey and fairly heavy at over 4.5 pounds. If you are looking for travel backpacks that are good for your back but allow you to carry a decent amount of weight, look no further than the YOREPEK. On small to medium backpacks that are at home in easier terrain we go for maximum ventilation. Able to carry loads of up to 50 lbs, it has a U-shaped main compartment with a 55L capacity, plus a laptop and tablet sleeve with lockable zippered access. The Blaze 60 is Granite Gears flagship piece, combining heavy-hauling credentials and functional organization at a 3-pound weight. What sets it apart is how few compromises there are with this 2-pound 0.7-ounce bag (ours is 2 lbs. Levity), but its nevertheless significantly lighter and more streamlined than a pack like the Atmos above. Whats more, while we appreciated the breathability and comfort of the hanging mesh backpanel, it can be a polarizing design: On our womens 45+10 SL model in particular, there was a notable 2 inches of space between the pack body and our back. And recently, even household names like REI Co-op and Gregory have thrown their hat into the ring with designs like the Flash and Focal/Facet, giving backpackers more ultralight options than ever. Furthermore, our Aircontact cushions made from special hollow chamber foam guarantee fantastic ventilation due to the pump effect of every movement. Weight: 3 lbs. We recently 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. That said, you do get a bit less capacity without any significant weight savings over the 4-pound-10-ounce Atmos. Make sure to match your pack's capacity to your type of gear you'll be bringing. This backpack is perfect for long trips as it has a luggage strap that slides over the upright handle of your suitcase, making it easy to carry and taking the load off your back for a while. For example, the Osprey Atmos comes in sizes small/mediumand large/extra-large, with the former built to fit those with torso lengths of 17to 20.5 inches. And because Dyneema isnt particularly breathable, the Southwest isnt our top pick for hot-weather hiking. But finding an internal framed pack that breathes well can be a challenge, primarily because the point of a pack is to hug and conform to your body, moving with you as you walk. Whether youre a first-time backpacker or a seasoned veteran, everyone could use a good list to make sure theyre prepared when they head out on the trail. Osprey is a backpack powerhouse known for quality builds, excellent organization, and comfort, as seen in industry-leading designs like the Atmos/Aura and Aether/Ariel above. Theres no shortage of good competition in the ultralight pack market, but the Gossamer Gear is nevertheless a strong contender, and especially for those who like to stay organizedRead in-depth reviewSee the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60. From the current lineup, we prefer the heavy-hauling Glacier, which is built to handle rough, expedition-level use and comes loaded with creative design touches. We wouldnt recommend carrying much more, however, as the padding is pretty minimal (the Southwest and Circuit above are better for thru-hikers carrying heavier loads). The recently updated Crown is the most comfortable yet, featuring a new compression-molded PE frame sheet and molded foam backpanel. We prefer foam that errs towards firm support rather than being soft and compressible. Compression Straps But thats not all the Atmos has going for it: The pocket design is thoughtfully laid out with plenty of options to divvy up gear, the new Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt offer an easily customizable fit, and the premium materials hold up well to rough treatment. Lots of storage space, pockets, and a key fob hook make it easy to keep everything organized, whilst a built-in USB charger on the outside makes it possible to charge your phone from a power pack as you walk. Further, we love the fit system on the hipbelt, which can be adjusted to your exact waist measurement with Granite Gears updated Re-Fit system. That said, the REI does fall a little short of some other packs in its weight class: The Focal 48 above (which also comes in a 58L version) has a more thoughtfully built suspension system, which translates to improved ventilation and greater comfort, especially with a heavier load (REI lists the Flashs weight limit at 15-30 lbs., while the Focal 58s is 35 lbs.). Although ideal for daily use, it comes into its own when used for traveling as it has so many cool features! Multiple pockets, lots of storage, USB charging and an internal belt for your laptop all combine to make this a great multi-purpose backpack! The Focal goes head-to-head with Ospreys Exos below, which is the long-standing favorite in this category. 10 oz.Fabric: Nylon (100D & 420D)Capacities: 55LWhat we like: Light, customizable, and a great value.What we dont: Comfort and ventilation fall short of more premium designs. Moving down, your iliac crest can be located by putting your hands on top of your hips (thumbs at back). Reduced to the essential, they are ideal for comfortably carrying light to medium loads depending on the volume. Its 30-liter capacity limits how much weight youre carrying on your back, which mean you wont be able to load it up to the point of causing pain. Tack on a firm foam backpanel and aluminum stays, and the Southwest handles heavy loads with relative ease. Then make sure to get a correspondingly cavernous pack. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. In addition to streamlined storage, they shed pounds with thin yet premium materials (Dyneema and Robic nylon are common) and minimalist suspension systems that generally include an aluminum stay and foam backpanel. And finally, when it comes to materials, Dr. Griffiths suggests choosing something lightweight, made from either cotton or vinyl, with padded straps and a padded back. If it sits too low (with the bulk of the backpack near your low back or hips), your spinal muscles will compensate, which leads to back pain and fatigue in other parts of your body, says Renda. Utah-based ULA Equipment has gone from a relative unknown to a darling of the PCT and AT in only a few short years.