Nothing is more important during an Appalachian Trail than getting your hands on an appropriate backpack for the Trail. The Appalachian Trail is the world’s longest hiking-only footpath, covering approximately 2,190 miles and passing through 14 different states. Therefore, it is very important for you as a hiker to get yourself the Best Backpacks for the Appalachian Trail.
Taking your comfort and seriousness towards the hike seriously, we surveyed different hikers to get you a list of the Best Backpacks for the Appalachian Trail. Going more meticulous with your choice, do not forget to check the factors that are important to choose an Appalachian Trail backpack.
Buying Guide for Best Backpacks for Appalachian Trail
Size
It’s important to keep in mind the size of the pack when choosing one. Make sure you’re wearing the correct size by consulting sizing charts and measuring your own body before buying your Best Backpacks for the Appalachian Trail. Having the wrong size pack can cause your backpack to move around while you’re hiking or it may not sit properly on your hips or shoulders. When trying on a pack, it should also fit snugly and comfortably.
Backpack Frame
Internal frame packs are used by the vast majority of backpackers who complete the Appalachian Trail. Those who begin with external frames are likely to switch to internal frames later on. Those who use frameless packs tend to have ultralight equipment on them. As a result, you should weigh your options realistically and carefully before making a decision.
Adjustability
When it comes to capacity, the pack should be able to adapt to you and your needs. For this reason, the adjustment straps must be comfortable and easily adjustable. Expanding your pack may be a good idea if your appetite changes and you find yourself needing more food. An adjustable pack with compression straps and other size adjustments will come in handy at some point.
Budget
It’s only natural that the budget will be a factor in the process as well. Investing in a good backpack, on the other hand, is one of the best investments you can make on the Appalachian Trail. If you take into account the time you’re not working or earning, you’re already spending thousands of dollars on your travels.
Best Backpacks for Appalachian Trail
Gregory Mountain Products Zulu 55 Liter Men's Overnight Hiking Backpack
Amazon.com
1) Osprey Aura AG 65 Women's Backpacking Backpack (Best seller)
Osprey Aura AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack
Product dimension: 27 x 20 x 7 inches
Product Weight: 4.34 Pounds
In terms of comfort and fit, the Aura AG 65 is the best women’s backpack ever made. You’ll feel lighter thanks to the Anti-Gravity suspension, which seamlessly wraps around your body to give the illusion that you’re carrying less weight than you actually are! Trekking poles can be stored on the go in the side pockets and a FlapJacket can be used without the lid. Improved durability in high wear areas, fit adjustments, and new colours are some of the modifications made in the new design.
For a perfect fit, the bag pack comes with an adjustable harness and a hipbelt that can be adjusted on the fly. Rain gear and extra layers can be stored in the front stretch mesh pocket. There are also web attachment points and a removable floating top lid on the Osprey Aura AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack. Additionally, a 3L water reservoir can be stored in the internal hydration reservoir sleeve (sold separately).
As part of the Anti-Gravity suspension system, a lightweight mesh backpanel runs the length of the body, from the top to the hipbelt. This allows for maximum airflow and a perfect fit. There are straps on the upper and lower sides stabilise loads and maintain a streamlined profile by using two straps. For storing water bottles and other gear, there are two stretch mesh side pockets. Reservoir sleeve can hold up to 3L. (sold separately).
Food and small items are kept close at hand in zippered hipbelt pockets. Lid with dual zippered pockets and web attachment points can be removed from the floating top lid. The FlapJacket flap protects your gear once the lid is removed. Separate sleeping bag compartment in the lower part of the bag, accessible by zipper.
2) Gregory Mountain Products Zulu 55 Litre Men's Overnight Hiking Backpack (Best seller)
Gregory Mountain Products Zulu 55 Litre Men’s Overnight Hiking Backpack
Product dimension: 28 x 17 x 8 inches
Product Weight: 3.35 pounds
Gregory Mountain Products Zulu 55 Litre Men’s Overnight Hiking Backpack comes with a body-hugging and customisable suspension. These features flex with your body’s natural movement on the trail to keep you comfortable. Furthermore, it has a dynamic fit and lightweight along with being streamlined silhouettes combine to make the FreeFloat suspension the ultimate combination of balance and agility. Open Air moisture-wicking ventilation, full-body U-zip panel access, and on-the-go water bottle access make it easy to stay hydrated and comfortable no matter where your next adventure is.
Coming with the 3D comfort cradle hip belt and dynamic flex panels, they naturally adjust as per the movements of your body. Moreover, there is a Sunglass QuickStow system that is built into the shoulder harness. For you to have easy access to the main compartment, the company offers you a front U-zip.
As a result of the FreeFloat flex panels, the hip belt can pivot and flex in sync with secure and scratch-free sunglasses storage along with the Quickstow system on the shoulder harness. As a bonus, the rain cover comes with a zippered pocket that is behind the Cased cell phones. Even the point and shoot cameras can be stored in large hip belt pockets.
The Trekking pole or ice axe shock can be locked with an adjustable attachment loop and hook-attach hook. There are pockets on each side for storing further things. For over or under compression, there are two stretch mesh pockets on either side of the bag. Additionally, there is a bottom compartment with removable dividers.
Additionally, there are two zippered pockets on the hip belt along with two stretches. Due to their inside-out design, the side mesh pockets can be used freely. With a top buckle, it has a large stretch mesh pocket on the front, which can be closed.
3) Naturehike 65L Internal Frame Hiking Backpack
Naturehike 65L Internal Frame Hiking Backpack
Product dimension: 20.87 x 10.24 x 7.09 inches
Product Weight: 2.42 Pounds
Along with a rain cover and hydration function, Naturehike 65L Internal Frame Hiking Backpack comes with pockets at various positions for added comfort while climbing. In addition to being ideal for mountaineering, it can also be used for long-term camping and camping in all four seasons.
As a result of its exquisite thickness, the back pad and shoulder cushion have been ergonomically designed to reduce bite into the shoulder. With its mesh cushion structure and excellent breathability, the back pad stays cool and comfortable even if you use it for a long time.
You can secure things like trekking poles or sleeping bags with a compression strap on the top of the bag and both sides of the bag. On the backpack’s back, there’s a separate pocket for storing shoes when you’re on the road. When it comes to mountaineering and long-term travel needs, a large-capacity model is ideal for a traveller like you.
Furthermore, along with being durable and long-lasting, 420D nylon can prevent tears and scratches, as well as being waterproof to keep out light rain. This backpack is not completely waterproof but can repel liquids.
The storage space has been increased. With the ability to be adjusted and detachable, the user can customise their bundle. There is a wide range of rope sizes from 1.5mm to 3.5mm that can be substituted as needed. There is a rainproof cover on the bottom of the backpack, which prevents the backpack from being damaged by rain in rainy weather. Keys, a mobile phone, a small water glass, and other small objects can be placed in this compartment.
4) TETON Sports Explorer 4000 Internal Frame Backpack
TETON Sports Explorer 4000 Internal Frame Backpack
Product dimension: 25.94 x 19.69 x 8.74 inches
Product Weight: 4.98 Pounds
Scout 3400 is a budget-friendly backpack with a tonne of features from TETON Sports. The internal-frame package, for sure makes it the versatile camping backpack. Well-padded and comfortable, it’s a great package.
A lot of people who have trouble finding a backpack that fits their body shape will have no problem with this one. If you are heading for a trek with family, no need to worry as everyone will be able to wear this backpack comfortably. In addition, older children and teens benefit greatly from its adjustability.
Gear that doesn’t fit properly due to growth spurts can be a source of frustration for parents with outdoor-loving children. There is no need to worry about outgrowing your child or teen’s bag with the Scout 3400. If you are worried about the size of this unisex backpack being too large for you, don’t be. A curvy or even a petite woman will be comfortable in the straps, hip belt and torso.
This backpack has a lot of pockets, pouches and other ways to attach or store gear in it. Additionally, there are six pockets scattered throughout the bag. Three more mesh pockets add even more storage space. Tent poles, for example, can be stored in the floating pockets, which do not obstruct other pockets or pouches in the bag. Tools, trekking poles, and other gear can be clipped onto the backpack’s four loops.
Four compression straps allow you to cinch the backpack down even when it’s loaded to the brim. To move around in the backcountry or anywhere else that isn’t on groomed trails, this feature is very helpful. You can also store a sleeping bag, tent, or even a rain jacket in the compression straps if you wish.
5) Clinfish 75L Camping Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Bag Waterproof Backpack
Clinfish 75L Camping Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Bag Waterproof Backpack
Product dimension: 17.13 x 13.89 x 3.78 inches
Product Weight: 2.79 pounds
Designed for camping and hiking, the 75L Hiking Backpack is made of water-resistant 600D oxford material. Sturdy zippers, well-stitched seams and sturdy stitching ensure long-lasting performance. Many pockets, including Kelty Signature wing pockets, two front zippered pockets, and a large top-loading J-zip that gives access to the main compartment. This makes it a very functional bag. You can keep your belongings organized on the trail with daisy chains, water bottle pockets and even a sleeping bag compartment!
In addition, the mesh shoulder straps with 2cm sponge padding are fully adjustable and breathable. On top of that, there’s an air-permeable molded foam back that helps with ventilation and eases the burden.
Your back will stay cool and dry thanks to the airflow. Your pack can be tied to it, and you can hang a sleeping bag and mat from it if you wish. Everybody will be happy with it. In addition, an ergonomically designed alluminium internal frame and suspension system allow gravity to more evenly disperse pressure and weight down the back, keeping the head and torso aligned, and reducing 60 percent of the weight burden. Suspension system can be adjusted to fit any user’s exact height and weight, regardless of body type.
Only your mountaineering bag is needed, and you can forget about all your troubles, the dark sky, and the blowing wind. Your feet are the beginning of a new journey.
6) N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack
N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack
Product dimension: 26 x 12.6 x 9.06 inch
Product Weight: 1.2kg / 2.65lb
An idle Travel and hiking backpack, the N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack features a 50L internal frame backpack. If you are going on a long-term outdoor adventure, you will need a lot of pockets. Climbing is a favourite pastime as well as hiking, cycling, and backpacking.
Made from rip-stop, scratch-resistant Nylon material, this pack will last you a long time! Along with well-made craftsmanship and dense stitching, it has great zippers. Moreover, the shoulder straps, carrying handle, bottom, and other areas are reinforced with strong stitching. In the event of a light drizzle, you can keep your outdoor gear dry by using a waterproof rain cover.
Designed with a streamlined suspension system and breathable mesh padding on the back, shoulder straps, and hip belt for fatigue relief and ventilation, the hiking bag helps to speed up heat dissipation. Enhancing the comfort of your travels.
Easy to tighten waist buckle system withstands heavy loads, while a split dual wishbone waist pad with top and bottom hip adjustments offers a more custom fit. Practical whistle buckle, D-shaped carabiners, easy access zippers, shoulder straps and hip straps are some of the features you’ll find.
The semi-circle hollow is ergonomically designed to provide head comfort even when the pack is fully loaded. To make the bracket more comfortable for the wearer, it has a ventilation system. Because of the padding on the shoulders and belts, you’ll feel more comfortable on your trip. The shoulder straps are also padded, which helps distribute the weight evenly throughout the body.
There is a sleeping bag compartment, a separate shoe storage area, and a mesh pocket on the front to store your changed clothes. Made of nylon fabric and carefully stitched, this backpack is the perfect choice for your next adventure. The backpack is equipped with a removable rain cover that can keep the contents of the backpack dry on rainy days.
In the chest buckle, a survival whistle is used, which can adjust the direction of the whistle on its own to avoid being blocked by snow. Small items, such as keys, can be easily stored and located in the key pocket located in the top pocket.
7) Loowoko Hiking Backpack 50L Travel Camping Backpack
Loowoko Hiking Backpack 50L Travel Camping Backpack
Product dimension: 23.62 x 11.81 x 2.8 inches
Product Weight: 2.6 Pounds
Travel Camping Backpack Loowoko Hiking Backpack comes with eight adjustable straps for tying up your pack or hanging a sleeping bag, mat and hammock. As a bonus, you will find mesh side pockets to help you keep your belongings intact.
This backpack is suitable for women and men between the heights of 5’6″ and 6’5″ (90lb to 250lb) and meets the size requirements for most airlines. Along with comfortable mesh shoulder straps with ample sponge padding, it makes a great daypack. Wider and thicker S-type shoulder straps come with high elastic breathable back support that provides you with ventilation plus lightens the load on the wearer.
With a rain cover, it’s a 50-litre waterproof backpack. The rip-stop polyester material can keep water from sipping into the bag. That is why it’s called the “Multi-Purpose Back with plenty of pockets and features on this backpack. On top of all that, it’s a great choice for hiking, travel, camping and carrying.
It is specially designed for a separate shoe storage facility. An adjustable waist belt, as well as padded shoulder straps, ensure you a secure and comfortable fit around the body. With its lumbar pad and channelled design, open-cell foam comes with a lumbar pad that provides maximum Mobile phones, water bottles, and other items that can be stored in the backpack. After purchasing the Loowoko 50L backpack, you will receive the backpack itself, a waterproof rain cover in the bottom pocket, and a small card explaining the 90-day warranty.
8) G4Free 50L Hiking Backpack
If you are looking for the Best Backpacks for Appalachian Trail, this is the one for you! The Upgraded Version of G4Free’s 50-litre hiking backpack features suitable for a waterproof daypack and as an outdoor and climbing backpack. This backpack has a 50L capacity and is made of Waterproof Nylon with high-quality SBS pull string zippers.
As a result of its size, it is a great travel companion. In addition to the main compartment, there is also a separate zipper pocket for shoes or dirty clothing. Moreover, it also includes a rain cover that comes with one bottom rain cover pocket. A cell phone or MP3 player could also fit in two hip belt pockets and two side pockets can hold bottles or an umbrella.
Hydration Bladder can be stored in a compartment in the main pocket, which will keep you hydrated throughout the day. It is a great travel backpack for climbing, hiking, camping, backpacking and travelling, among other activities.
If you carry this backpack for a long time, the mesh back panel makes the heat quickly dispersed. In addition, the design of Thick Shoulder Straps helps to relieve pressure on the shoulders.
You can also protect your belongings from the rain with a hiking backpack that has a rain cover attached to it large space for hydration bladder, iPad, mobile phone, A4 documents and other accessories. The frameless design of this hiking backpack may appeal to those who are looking for a backpack with a frame. No frame means you can stuff more into the bag, sometimes even going over the 40L capacity.
The fact that this bag can be folded up is also a plus. When it comes to large bags that can still be stored in a small space, this isn’t something you’ll find very often. Ideal if you have a small home or are on the go.
Sam Mortin
Sam Mortin is the creator of ‘Backpack Select’.
He is a Data Scientist by Profession & a Backpacker by heart. Here Sam help people choose best Backpacks for their Travels & Commutes.