For most hikers, the kind of equipment used will largely determine the success of your trip. For instance, if you’re trekking across the country, you’ll need a solid pair of hiking boots. Similarly, the best hiking backpack under $100 allows you an affordable way to enjoy your next outdoor excursion.
Water is often a crucial requirement if you are venturing off the beaten path. Additionally, some rope and a change of clothes are a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. You will need space to store all these items. Only the best backpacks will satisfy your luggage storage needs.
Is a hiking backpack worth it?
Yes, hiking backpack worth it. A hiking backpack helps you to easily carry food, water, necessary items, and other supplementary tools while hiking. A good hiking backpack ensures you have enough space to carry all your supplies without carrying too much weight.
In addition, since it can be strapped on your back, it helps your hands to remain free. Any hiking backpack serves in multiple ways as it can be used for casual traveling or while going to school or the office. It has more features than an ordinary backpack.
How heavy should a backpack be for hiking?
As per studies, it’s recommended to weigh between 16% to 25% of your overall body weight for hiking. E.g., if you weigh around 72 kgs, your hiking backpack should weigh 12 to 18 kgs. If it’s heavy than the recommended range, the hiking might be tiring with bad after-effects rather than an enjoyable experience.
Best Hiking Backpack Under $100: Quick Review
Hiking backpacks are a bit different from regular camping packs. Campers get by with massive storage. Their bags often include secondary pockets and pouches. For hikers, the backpack’s size and level of comfort are crucial factors.
Hiking takes a lot of energy. If you decide to haul excessive loads, you’ll quickly tire out and fail to achieve your milestones. That’s why most of the packs we tested were compact and straightforward.
On the flip side, we did come across supersized storage solutions. These backpacks had a generous packing capacity and are perfect for someone planning a long-distance trip. They have ample room to store equipment, boots, food, and a sizable hydration system.
We identified a trio of standout hiking backpacks with an attractive price tag under $100.
● WintMing Camping Rucksack – Best large capacity backpack
● TETON Sports Oasis Hydration Pack – Best hydration pack
● Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack – Best compact backpack
Best Hiking Backpack Under $100: A Detailed Review
1. TETON Sports Oasis Hydration Pack
Standout Feature
- Like most hydration packs, TETON Sports’ product is relatively small.
- The interior chamber, for instance, will only fit 18 liters’ worth of luggage.
- If you aren’t going camping, this backpack will hold just about everything you need for a day out in the woods.
- The pack follows a streamlined design principle with comfortable straps to keep you from getting sore shoulders.
- It has several compression straps which allow you to squeeze it further.
- If you aren’t carrying a lot of items, you could eliminate any open spaces and prevent the bag from bouncing about.
- It is a lightweight pack when empty. The compact size ensures that you travel light.
- There is an integrated rain cover that is sewn in and stored at the seat of the pack.
- You can quickly pull it out and cover your luggage in case of sudden rain showers.
Every time you want to head into the wild outdoors, you must have a hydration plan. People usually stack a pair of water bottles, while others go for an in-built water bladder. Although most bags can accommodate them, it is often at the expense of interior storage space. The TETON Sports Oasis Hydration Pack is a well-thought hiking companion that will ensure your hydration needs are met.
Being a proper hydration pack, you will not have to worry about your water intake. Its water pouch holds about two liters of fluid. You’ll also get a sip tube that doesn’t tangle and lasts longer than the competition.
The problem with hydration packs is that the water eventually takes on an aftertaste. But, after a couple of washes, that issue was non-existent in the TETON Sports pack. If you aren’t satisfied with the 2L bladder, this bag can hold a 3L piece. However, it is going to be tightly packed if you intend to carry additional luggage.
Any outdoor buff needs many pockets on their backpack. The TETON pack has four zippered slots that will secure your electronic valuables and even keys.
Pros
✅ 2L hydration pack is included.
✅ It can hold a 10inch laptop.
✅ A pair of elastic water bottle holders.
✅ Quick customer service response.
Cons
❌ Water aftertaste takes several washes to go away.
❌ Water bottles will take up space inside the pack.
2. WintMing Camping Rucksack
The MOLLE system is a must-have for most backpackers. It is extensive on the WintMing pack allowing you a wealth of additional storage. There are multiple side and exterior pockets to squeeze in a couple more pounds of gear.
A serious camper needs all the space they can get, especially when shopping for the best backpack under $100. WintMing’s massive 70L Camping Rucksack will hold just about anything you want to bring on your next backpacking adventure.
This is a big backpack by any standard. It is tall (almost 30 inches), and the interior has enough depth to store a sizeable load. To ready to bring along everything you would need for a three-day nature excursion. You can also include an extra pair of hiking boots and even a hammock.
The backpack boasts a robust 600D waterproof nylon fabric. This will ensure all your equipment remains dry and cozy for when you set up camp. Also, the pack will withstand dense and thorny bushes without so much as a scratch.
Thanks to its unique padding system, even though the rucksack can haul up to 40 pounds, you won’t scrape your shoulders carrying it around. The shoulder straps are wide and well cushioned with breathable mesh straps. It also features padded waist straps to ease the burden on your back and waist when c such an enormous load.
Pros
✅ MOLLE system compatibility.
✅ Plenty of interior storage space.
✅ Padded waist and shoulder straps.
✅ Scratch-resistant fabric.
✅ Elastic rope harness.
Cons
❌ Very tall backpack for shorter hikers.
❌ The pack doesn’t accommodate a hydration bladder and tube.
3. Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
The backpack has a decent-sized pocket sleeve inside its main compartment. A hydration pack will sit perfectly inside this space, and you can also store important documents such as maps. The bag is made from 210D Nylon that protects your electronics and documents from water splashes.
If you are looking for the best hiking backpack under $100 for short trips and light loads, Osprey is one of the best companies for you. They have decades of experience making backpacks for all events. The Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack should be your go-to option if you’re planning to hit the woods on the weekend.
The Daylite Plus is generally a tiny carry-pod that you can attach to a larger backpack. It’s usually intended as a secondary storage attachment for larger Osprey packs. Nevertheless, it’s a nifty hauler to take on shorter hikes and trips.
The pack is pretty small and will hold just 20L worth of luggage. This is twice what other hydration packs offer. However, it has a lot more pockets which you can maximize for storage. There is a compartment at the front with a mesh organizer and another secured using a zipper. They will store your radio, a bunch of keys, and some pens.
At the back, you’ll find a padded sleeve that will hold a sizeable laptop. For example, our 15-inch MacBook fit quite snugly. This slot can also be used to store your hydration pack. There are mesh pockets on the sides that are big enough for water bottles.
Pros
✅ Sizeable laptop compartment.
✅ Will accommodate a hydration pack.
✅ It can be used as secondary storage on larger packs.
✅ Multiple mesh slots.
✅ Multipurpose hydration compartment.
Cons
❌ Water bottle pockets are a bit loose.
❌ Grab handle rubs against your body.
4. DVEDA 35L Hiking Travel Backpack
- In the case of a travel accessory like a backpack, I would say durability and comfortability are the most important features to be considered.
- Looks don’t matter most in this scenario, as looks can be deceiving. This was exceptional, as the looks were also great along with strong rigidity and durability.
- Hiking is an adventurous activity, and there we need a rugged and powerful companion, this backpack.
- The nylon construction is rip-resistant and acts as a roof during rains, keeping everything waterproof, dry, and safe.
- The breathable straps are adjustable to fit your body comfortably for all-day use.
- The metal zippers are wear and tear proof and ensure tight closures.
I was looking for a backpack for my recent hiking. I came across this “DVEDA 35L Hiking Travel Backpack” and was impressed with its features. And, what a pleasant surprise it was! The back looked perfectly crafted, with every corner of the piece seeming to be finished with minute details.
The backpack was relatively lightweight, though it looked sturdy. That means it wasn’t going to add its burden to the materials we were supposed to pack in the backpack. While packing my luggage, I realized that the backpack had enough room to accommodate all my stuff, including clothes, towels, and other hiking accessories.
When I carried the backpack on my back, it felt so comfortable and gave me the feeling that I was carrying no luggage.
The nylon lining on the backpack gave it tremendous strength, resilience, and uncommon elasticity. This helped me overcome some challenges while hiking; when I needed to climb or descend at some spots, the backpack’s rigidity and elasticity helped me escape without any hassle.
It was raining, and while the waters came pouring down, the nylon construction protected the backpack from rain, keeping the bag and the inside valuables dry and intact.
Pros
✅ Extremely lightweight.
✅ Foldable.
✅ Provides large room for your stuff.
✅ Durable.
✅ Comfortable to use.
✅ Chest strap with whistle buckle.
Cons
❌ Lacks padding.
❌ Hardened zips.
❌ Threading loosens.
❌ The front pocket lacks extra zipping.
5. Loowoko Hiking Backpack
Trudging through forested paths and up mountain trails extracts a heavy toll on their bodies for many hikers. To make these trips, they often invest in comfortable hiking boots, apparel, and like the Loowoko Hiking backpack, a comfortable luggage hauler.
This backpack has a wealth of padding strewn all over its exterior. This meshed padding allows your shoulders a bit of comfort, especially when you decide to fill up your hiking pack. Remember, the 50L bag is quite hefty, and you’re going to need all the cushioning you can get.
The size of your hiking backpack matters a great deal. If you plan to carry a ton of equipment, then a smaller pack will not prove helpful. Luckily, Loowoko’s 50L Hiking Backpack is certainly a contender for the best hiking backpack under $100 award.
The bag is decently sized. It will hold up to 50L’s worth of luggage and equipment for your outdoor excursion. This allows you to pack up everything you need to survive a 3-day hike.
Backpackers typically have to find a balance when selecting bigger packs. When opting for a larger luggage carrier, you will have to deal with strict airline regulations on luggage size. Loowoko’s backpack is, nevertheless, adequately sized and adheres to many carriers’ specifications.
This backpack has close to a dozen straps that make it possible to attach more things to it. So if you run out of room inside, you can easily strap on your sleeping bag, hammocks, and additional gear onto the pack.
However, be mindful of the weight, especially if you are planning an extended trip.
Pros
✅ Eight adjustable straps.
✅ Easily accessible side pockets.
✅ Shoulder straps and back support cushioning.
✅ Includes a rain cover.
✅ Plentiful 50L luggage capacity.
Cons
❌ No hydration bladder.
❌ Lacks an internal frame.
6. Maelstrom Hiking & Camping Backpack
- The backpack has a capacity of about 40L. This helps to provide more than enough space for hiking, camping, or any other kind of outdoor travel.
- The size of the backpack is designed in a way to be compatible with most airlines.
- The breathable mesh shoulder straps have extra sponge padding, which makes them comfortable on our shoulders and helps you focus on your hiking activities.
- The bag’s ergonomic design helps you walk for hours, having the backpack on your back without any fatigue or tiredness.
- The hip-belt pocket helps to stuff small and needy tools you will need frequently.
Once I received this backpack, I opened it with great excitement. While opening it, I could feel the backpack is made with high-quality standards with rip-stop 210d nylon fabric. This ensures the backpack is waterproof, scratch-proof, and durable for heavy-duty usage.
I quickly stuffed some random materials in the backpack along with my laptop, some clothes, and some tools. I strapped it to my back to experience how it felt. Wow, it was so comfortable. The backpack is thickly padded and acts as a cushion on my back. The backpack includes an ergonomic ring handle, making it easy to operate while traveling.
The chest buckle is flexible enough to distribute the weight uniformly and keep it at the center. The chest buckle is also equipped with a survival whistle to blow in cases of emergency.
While filling up the random stuff, I noticed the backpack has a large capacity to hold most of the things and consists of many compartments. This would make it easy to organize all of my luggage smartly.
One thing I liked about this backpack was about having an extra waterproof pocket added in the main compartment to stuff in sweaty or wet clothes.
The headphone hole on the backpack top is also one smart feature if you enjoy music while hiking. Overall a good product for a reasonable price.
Pros
✅ Made from high-quality material.
✅ Large capacity with multi compartments.
✅ Unique function design.
✅ Light-weight.
Cons
- Too big size for small adults or ladies.
- More straps may be annoying.
7. Venture Pal Sports Backpack
- One feature I most liked is about the multi compartments. It helps you to keep your things organized smartly.
- Along with the one main zipped compartment, the backpack has two zipped front pockets and two pockets on either side. The main compartment can house up to 35 liters of stuff.
- Planning any kind of trip – one day or a week-long hike, the space provided by this backpack is enough to take care of all your luggage.
- There are two front pockets where you can keep your accessories for easy access. The two side pockets can hold your water bottles.
I was on a mountaineering expedition with a hiker group. While carrying it on my back, it felt so comfortable.
I had lots of material stuffed in the backpack, mainly 10 water bottles, but I never felt overburdened. Thanks to the decent ergonomics that worked with this backpack, the weight was pretty steady and helped me balance myself perfectly at some critical points.
The mesh pockets on either side of the backpack helped me to manage my water bottles easily. The strength of the buckle strap was proved when it didn’t budge whenever I had to stretch myself, nor did the straps let the back lose its balance and helped me climb or descend without worrying about my materials within the backpack.
The multiple compartments helped me to organize all my stuff decently. The zippers are of great quality, which helped me to smoothly shuffle some things in and around within the backpack at times.
Since it can fold itself into its pocket when not needed, this backpack can be stuffed or carried anywhere. This feature is very common nowadays. This is a good buy for the hikers who go for long days of hiking and hike for long hours.
Pros
✅ Comfortable to use.
✅ Multi compartments.
✅ Light-weight.
✅ Compact.
Cons
❌ Inside lining can melt or peel away.
❌ The zippers are not smooth.
❌ The zippers may come off.
8. RuRu Monkey 50L Hiking Backpack
Extra sponge padding to the breathable mesh shoulder straps helps keep stress away from your shoulders. The perfectly designed ergonomics with broadened and thickened s-type shoulder straps help for the best ventilation. The highly elastic, breathable back helps to release the burden on your body.
This backpack surprised me very pleasantly. The pictures posted on the shopping sites can be deceptive, and sometimes the product doesn’t appear to be that big, as shown on the site. But this was an exception and stood true to what the image on the site said.
I opened the backpack, and it justified the 50L capacity. I knew I could put in a lot of stuff there, yet some space would remain. Along with the main compartment, this backpack also features spacious pockets to stuff in your material.
I tried this backpack while traveling on a bike, and it felt so comfortable while riding. The zippers and buckles were extremely good quality and kept themselves intact whenever I rode at high speeds.
We caught some rain while riding, but the bag remained dry despite heavy rain. Everything was super dry when I checked later. I had never imagined I could get this wonderful thing at $25. I am going to buy 1 more backpack for my brother.
Pros
✅ Durable.
✅ Large capacity of 50L.
✅ Light-weight.
✅ Free replacement or refund offered by the company.
Cons
❌ The zippers may come offy.
❌ Unsuitable for heavy-duty backpacking.
9. OMASKA Multifunctional Tactical Hiking Backpack
Small bags tend to have a pretty narrow center of gravity. If the straps aren’t tight enough, you’ll have to contend with an awkwardly swinging load. That’s why it comes fitted with a slew of adjustable straps for your shoulders and chest. These should help you get a tight fit even if the bag is half full.
The shoulder straps also have D-ring clips on which you can fasten minor accessories like sunglasses. There’s even a patch on the front that holds your address information and even a tiny flag.
Are you looking to ditch that hefty 50L backpack – maybe get a lightweight pack that will hold all your essentials as you venture off the beaten path? The OMASKA Multifunctional Tactical Hiking Backpack is your best bet. It is delightfully compact and one of the best hiking backpacks under $100 you can get today.
Most tiny hiking backpacks are dedicated hydration packs. They are often tailored to store your drinking fluids. Some will go overboard and offer twin water bottle pockets that take up precious space in an already compact pack.
On the other hand, OMASKA’s Tactical pack achieves the right balance between the two requirements. It doesn’t have a dedicated bladder pouch. However, you still get a pair of side pockets for your hydration bottles. The main compartment is roomy.
You can fit inside a 14-inch laptop with enough room to spare for documents and other smaller items. This compartment is well divided with organizational slots that will perfectly fit your cards, tactical knife, compass, and other gear.
Pros
✅ High-quality waterproof material.
✅ Sizeable interior compartment.
✅ A pair of water bottle side pockets.
✅ Completely adjustable shoulder and chest straps.
Cons
❌ No water bladder.
❌ It cannot be used with larger backpacks.
10. Mardingtop 65L Hiking Backpack
Standout Feature
The Mardingtop Hiking pack has a primary compartment suitable for 65L storage capacity. There are a pair of additional side pockets. These aren’t your regular secondary pouches as they are pretty substantial and give you an extra 10L storage room.
Like most large-capacity backpacks, the Mardington 65L Hiking Backpack is a tall product. You can carry enough luggage and camping gear to last a weekend of camping. As genuine backpackers, you wouldn’t want any setbacks in the wild for lack of essential equipment.
Another contender for the best hiking backpack under $100 crown, Mardingtop’s offering has enough room for a mini vacation. The main hold will comfortably fit 65L’s worth of equipment. Get your sleeping bag, boots, a change of clothes, and even sufficient food and drink to keep you going the extra mile.
The pack includes sizeable detachable pockets and a reasonable MOLLE webbing system. These secondary storage pouches should afford hikers additional room to stash critical gear. Multiple straps allow you to attach your climbing rope, tent poles, and even a tent before hitting the woods.
Thanks to the rain cover, this pack is also waterproof. The Nylon embedded in its fabric also helps to keep your stuff dry and cozy.
The pack is pretty comfortable to carry, even if you decide to use every inch of its massive compartment. The waist belt comes with sufficient padding as well as shoulder straps. Moreover, many tiny pockets line its waist belt, giving you more room to stash little bits of hiking paraphernalia.
Pros
✅ MOLLE system.
✅ Accommodates a hydration system.
✅ Roomy interior.
✅ Sizeable secondary storage side pockets.
✅ Adequate waist, back, and shoulder padding.
✅ Multiple straps.
Cons
❌ Not suitable for extended hikes.
❌ Brightly colored rain cover.
❌ Upper shoulder straps may need frequent tightening when fully loaded.
What’s the difference between backpacking and hiking?
Both words can be confusing, and often people take them as the same activity. But both slightly differ from each other.
Hiking on the other hand is just a normal walk in the fields or countryside and it is considered that you will return to your place by the end of the day. Though hikers can also take all the essentials they require, it is only for one day, while backpackers may be hiking for a couple of days, and accordingly, they carry more stuff with them.
Features to Consider When Buying a Hiking Backpack
You will find hundreds of hiking backpacks, especially if you are on a budget. There are plenty of options at less than $100, and each is differently equipped. When shopping for a hiking pack, you first have to consider your needs. Are you going on a proper camping trip or just a day-long hike?
With that in mind, there are several factors to consider when selecting the best hiking backpack under $100.
Storage Space and Organization
Hikers planning an extended trip need a ton of gear. Camping equipment, clothes, and food all take up precious space inside your backpack. That’s why a decent size is a must-have. Luckily, there are plenty of 40L, 50L, and even 70L capacity rucksacks on the market.
Larger bags often have multiple organizational slots. These make it easier to pack and stash your belongings. A pack with just one massive interior space often gets filled up too quickly, leaving little extra room for additional gear and equipment.
Does It Accommodate a Hydration System
If you are leading an active lifestyle, you understand how important it is to remain hydrated at all times. That’s why most backpacks are loaded with side pockets. It is the easiest way to stash your water bottle and even carry a few extras.
Miniature hydration packs are an excellent solution for the light traveler. These often include a hydration bladder and tube. The tube must be long and fastened with robust clamps onto the pack.
Durability
Nylon is a popular fabric for hiking backpacks. It is incredibly lightweight, waterproof and scratch-resistant. Some packs use canvas, which is sturdier than Nylon but weighs significantly more.
Adjustable Straps
A backpack should have plenty of straps to fasten it, particularly if you trudge through bushes and up woody mountain trails. When your pack isn’t loaded, it will swing about and inconvenience your hike. If you are running, you will eventually use more energy to maintain a comfortable posture. However, straps will hold your pack tightly against your body and prevent any random swaying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
There are hundreds of outdoor equipment companies specializing in outdoor backpacks. While most of them are newcomers, notable names include Osprey, Mardingtop, and Alexander McQueen.
Hiking backpacks do not have to be massive storage spaces. If you are only going out for the day, you certainly won’t need 70L’s worth of space. Any hiking bag holding at least 20L with an upper limit of 40L works just fine.
The woods have an array of colors. Most hikers will opt for a camouflage print on their backpacks as it matches most hiking gear and the surrounding environment. Beige and different shades of green combined with a camo print also go well on most outdoor packs.
Ideally, it is recommended to have a backpack that can house 30-50 liters of material.
A backpack range of 21-35 liters can suffice the requirement. This can hold your food, drinks, clothes, etc. You can also stuff some books and a camera in this space.
It’s not a good idea to use any normal backpack.
The Takeaway
The best hiking backpack under $100 doesn’t have to be a 70L behemoth. Even though a sizeable bag ensures that you are adequately equipped to face the wild, it’s not the only consideration when shopping for an outdoor backpack.
Smaller packs will make any short dash through the wild outdoors enjoyable. A hydration pack is as important as a hammock and sleeping bag. Nevertheless, it all boils down to what your intentions are when heading out into nature.
