Whether you’re a beginner hiker or a novice, a backpack is one of the most important hiking essentials because it will hold all your gear and hydration! Many backpacks can get quite pricy but with this list, you can find an option for every type of trek at an affordable price. Here is a list of the best hiking backpacks under $100!
This list is generally organized by the type of hike or outdoor adventure that you’re planning. Some of them are meant for packing one water bottle and a snack. Others are perfect for overnight camping and help keep you prepared for rain.
Which Backpack is Best for Hiking?
Hiking can be a strenuous activity, and in some places, the terrain and weather can be additional challenges. On the other hand, some trails are easy for beginners and like a walk in the park.
Either way, it’s important to have a backpack so that you can bring some hiking essentials along with you including a water bottle, some sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and a snack, just to name a few.
It’s also helpful to have easy access to your phone, your wallet, your car keys, or some first aid items in case you need them. The more you hike, the more you realize there are certain items you need, so it’s nice to have a backpack to help you be prepared. It took me a few hikes to realize that I prefer to bring a washcloth (to wipe away sweat) and tissues (for the runny noses I always seem to get, especially in the spring!).
Related: How is Hiking Different from Walking?
What to Look for in Hiking Backpacks
There are some essential elements to look for when purchasing a backpack.
- Internal frame backpacks because they have structure hidden inside the backpack, which makes them more compact and fit the arch of your back
- Adjustable shoulder straps that have cushioning for extra comfort
- Water-resistant material like nylon which is one of the most durable materials out there
- A rain cover in case you don’t make it back to your car before an unexpected rainfall
Now let’s go over the list of hiking backpacks so you can find the perfect backpack for your needs!
For Short Day Hikes
These backpacks are more ideals for beginners and those who regularly go on short hikes. The options listed below have storage capacity for small items. Although some are on the smaller side, they are still high quality!
TETON Sports TrailRunner 2 Hydration Pack, $24.99
If you want something lightweight and comfortable, this TETON Sports TrailRunner is perfect for those short hikes. It includes 2-liter hydration bladder with very comfortable and durable shoulder straps. There is also a mesh pocket that is big enough to store a wallet and cellphone.
Pros
- Very affordable and great option for beginners
- Has sternum and waste strap
- Bite valve to drink water
- Available in different colors
Cons
- Not necessarily one size fits all
- Hydration bladder may make water taste funny
WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack, $25.99
This sling backpack is on the smaller side but you are still able to pack a decent amount of essential items. Includes a hidden earphone hole so you can listen to music or podcasts while you get your exercise.
Pros
- External pockets allow easy access to phone and water bottle
- Lots of storage areas and compartments for easy organization
Cons
- On the smaller side, so be sure to check the dimensions before purchase
- Barely big enough for large water bottles
- Middle pocket has no zipper so items may fall out of it
TETON Sports Backpack, $46.38
Durable and comfortable, this TETON Sports Backpack is an excellent deal for the price! The hip straps and chest straps make it easy to secure on your back and carry a decent amount of weight. The emergency whistle is built-in and also a huge plus for safety reasons. The front pocket is another nice bonus because it can be used to separate food or your dog’s drinking bowl.
Pros
- Great butterfly pouch for a jacket or gloves
- Plenty of compartments for storage
- Outside pockets for easy access
Cons
- Straps have minimal padding so it’s uncomfortable to wear with tank tops
Water Buffalo Hydration Pack Backpack, $29.95
One of the best hydration backpacks out there, you can store two liters of water that will stay cool for hours. This one is amazing choice for jogging and cycling too!
Pros
- Roomy pockets so you can bring your phone, car keys, and sunscreen
- Padded back and shoulder straps for ultimate comfort
Cons
- The nozzle takes some getting used to
RUPUMPACK Insulated Hydration Backpack, $39.99
With two extra pockets on the wide waist straps you can put your phone or other valuables in and take them out freely. An open compartment is designed to conveniently store your quick-dry sweat towel, umbrella or hat. These unique designs make this pack more practical.
Pros
- Hip belt has storage for binoculars and phone
- Insulation layer keeps water cool
- Safety whistle
Cons
- Material quality is not as top-quality as other backpacks
ZOMAKE Small Hiking Backpack, $18.99
Made with nylon material, ZOMAKE is one of the most affordable options here, so it’s a great option for beginners. It’s also a great backpack if you’re planning on traveling across the country (or the world) because you can fold it up and store it in your luggage.
Pros
- One of the most affordable options
- Strong and durable zippers
Cons
- Side pockets are too small for water bottles
- Very little padding on shoulder straps
NEEKFOX Lightweight Daypack, $22.99
This NEEKFOX daypack is lightweight yet durable. There are plenty of pockets and compartments for you to pack a variety of items.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Buckle keeps all your items stable
Cons
- No back padding
4Monster Hiking Daypack, $22.99
This is ideal for a casual day hike (3-5 hours long) where you know weather conditions won’t change drastically. It fits a 2L hydration sleeve easily, two rain jackets, 2 sandwiches, and snacks.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Lightweight
Cons
- No chest straps for extra support
For Long Treks
For more experienced hikers, these backpacks are ideal for camping and overnight hiking. They’re surprisingly comfortable with sternum straps and hip straps adding support. These come with everything you need like an internal frame, water-resistant materials, extra pockets and compartments, and more.
WoneNice Waterproof Hiking Backpack, $39.99
This is ideal for a casual day hike (3-5 hours long) where you know weather conditions won’t change drastically. It fits a 2L hydration sleeve easily, two rain jackets, 2 sandwiches, and snacks.
Pros
- Adjustable chest belt and waist belt
- Ergonomic padding
Cons
- Limited amount of internal pockets
MOUNTAINTOP 40L Hiking Backpack, $42.99
Here is a simple option, yet this backpack can hold a lot of items. It’s very roomy and durable so you can pack several essentials, as long as they are lightweight.
Pros
- Thick, comfortable shoulder pads
- Large storage options with multiple compartments
Cons
- Not nearly as waterproof as other backpacks
N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack, $75.99
This N NEVO RHINO backpack features a large storage capacity.
Pros
- Air flow
- Expandable mesh pockets
Cons
- No option to adjust the hip belt and torso length
This backpack features lots of internal pockets which makes it a breeze to organize and find your things.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Built-in emergency whistle
Cons
- Not enough padding
- Lacks storage compartments
For Camping
For more experienced hikers, these backpacks are ideal for camping and overnight hiking. These come with everything you need like an internal frame, water-resistant materials, extra pockets and compartments, and more.
TETON Sports Scout 3400, $82.46
Here is the top pick for many hikers. It has everything you need for multi-day trips from amazing compression straps to being fully adjustable.
Pros
- Very roomy
- Water resistant
- Tightening straps and understraps make it easy to balance loads
Cons
- Water bottle pockets are not very stretchy and flexible
- No belt pockets
Loowoko Hiking Backpack, $49.99
This Loowoko backpack technically has a sleeping bag compartment, but it’s on the smaller side. So this backpack is more preferable for day-long hikes instead of overnight trekking.
Pros
- Multiple adjustable compression straps
- Waterproof cover
- Hip pouches
Cons
- No internal support
- Small sleeping bag compartment
MOUNTAINTOP Internal Frame Hiking Backpack, $69.99
Many reviewers have stated that this MountainTop backpack is a great option for long hikes because it’s comfortable enough to carry heavy loads (25 – 35 lbs) on your back. The bottom compartment makes storing a sleeping bag for overnight excursions easy.
Pros
- Torso length adjustment makes it a good fit for all heights and weights
- Trekking pole attachment
- Retractable cover
Cons
- On the heavier side
- Outside mesh pockets aren’t easy to get to while wearing the backpack
Hope this made it easier for you to analyze the best hiking backpacks for different types. Let us know which one is your favorite in the comments down below!