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Best Hiking Backpack, Cheap Hiking Backpacks

Cheapism
Mid-range
High end
$25
$90
$175
...+
In this review:
  1. Best Hiking Backpack, Cheap Hiking Backpacks
  2. Daypacks and Backpacks Size, Straps
  3. Internal Frame Backpack, Backpack Fit
  4. Hiking Backpack Reviews
  5. Discount Hiking Backpacks Features Comparison Table
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Cheap Hiking Backpacks Buying Guide

Whether you're taking a day hike or embarking on a multi-day meet-up with nature, you need a good cheap hiking backpack. Options abound in the low-cost hiking backpack segment where models costing less than $90 are sufficient for shorter overnight trips in milder weather, jaunts from base camp, simple daytrips, and depending on the size, for toting things around town and carrying onto an airplane.
The best hiking backpacks intended for serious hikers weigh you down in more ways than one: they're much larger and hold pounds more stuff than the cheap backpacks we researched and they're a drag on your budget, to the tune of $250 and up.

REI, Kelty, and Teton Sports are a few of the best-known brands associated with the best hiking backpacks for the average hiker. We also found good cheap hiking backpacks from High Sierra, Osprey, and Marmot, which produce upmarket gear as well. As you move downmarket into the cheaper price range for hiking backpacks, you'll be sacrificing size (not a huge deal for day hikers and occasional campers), the quality of materials used to make the backpack, the stitching that holds it all together, organizational conveniences like a detachable top compartment, and models made to fit men and others to fit women. Still, backpacks in the Cheapism niche won't disappoint. The best cheap hiking backpacks have many virtues, including versatility, durability, practical design, and good ergonomics.

There are several features to note as you make your way through the cheap backpacks racks. The first is size. If you only want a small pack for a day hike, size is less of an issue; if you're backpacking for several days at a stretch you'll want to be sure there's sufficient room for all the necessary gear. Straps and belts are the next feature to note. The best hiking backpacks have a waist belt, and one that also has a chest strap is even better. The straps on some cheap hiking backpacks are not well padded, so if you expect to carry heavy loads, make sure the padding is adequate. The fit (how the hiking backpack sets on your back) and the frame should suit the weight you'll carry; a heavy pack can feel much heavier if the weight is not distributed correctly. Organizational aids, like internal and external pockets, loops, daisy chains, and tie straps, also distinguish the best hiking backpacks from also-rans.

The best hiking backpacks on our list all earn favorable reviews for comfort, durability, usability, and features. The smallest pack we like is the REI Flash 18 (starting at $30), a minimalist daypack that compresses very small and makes a good extra pack for longer trips. The larger High Sierra Explorer 55 (starting at $80, Amazon) is roomy enough to stow what you need for several nights on the trail, and scores high with users for its comfort and adjustable fit. The Teton Sports Scout 3400 (starting at $50, Amazon) wins points for its value, features, and spaciousness. The Osprey Packs Stratos 24 (starting at $80, Amazon) serves primarily as a daypack, but unlike the REI Flash 18, it boasts an internal frame and lots of organizational aids; users rave about its comfort. A cheap hiking backpack that doesn't meet the bar set by the others is the Outbound Manchester (starting at $25), which gets dinged for its very small size, limited features, and thin straps affixed to the pack in an awkward arrangement.

by Maralyn Edid (Google+ Profile)

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Best Cheap Hiking Backpacks

REI Flash 18 Pack
Gold Medal

REI Flash 18 Pack

 The REI Flash 18 is an excellent little daypack capable of taking on relatively heavy loads. It lacks an internal frame but the waist belt and chest straps help disperse the weight. Users rate it high for comfort and versatility; it packs down small and can be turned inside out for use as a stuff sack. Read more »
Where to buy
REI.com
High Sierra Explorer 55
Gold Medal

High Sierra Explorer 55

 This 55-liter pack is large enough for multi-day hikes and features adjustable shoulder straps, a separate sleeping bag compartment, and an attached rain cover. Hikers like the contoured frame, size, and comfort. Read more »
Where to buy
Not ready to buy?

Good Cheap Hiking Backpacks

Osprey Packs Stratos 24
Gold Medal

Osprey Packs Stratos 24

 This daypack gets rave reviews across the board for its comfort, air-mesh suspension system, and exterior pockets. High-quality material and various sizes (small, medium, and large) make this a top-of-the line daypack that still qualifies as cheap. Read more »
Where to buy
Not ready to buy?
Teton Sports Scout 3400
Gold Medal

Teton Sports Scout 3400

 An entry-level pack designed for multi-day hikes, the Scout 3400 has an internal frame that balances heavy loads, contoured shoulders, lumbar pads, and a separate sleeping bag compartment. Users really appreciate the low price for the size (55 liters). Read more »
Where to buy
Not ready to buy?
 
 
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Don't Bother Cheap Hiking Backpacks

Outbound Manchester Backpack

The major complaint about this backpack is the lack of adequate padding on the straps, followed by its small 15-liter size. It lacks essential features and some users say it's too small and insubstantial even for a day hike. Read more »

 
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