Backpacking 101: Top 5 Backpacks for Beginners

You are planning to take your first backpacking trip and are looking for the perfect backpack. It can be overwhelming with all the different types, styles, prices, sizes, and more. There are hundreds of different packs to choose from. Let me help you by showing you what I consider the Top 5 backpacks for beginners. This is an article part of a series Backpacking 101

Top 5 Backpacks For Beginners

We all are beginners when we try something for the first time, and even after years of doing it, we all can still learn something from others. That is why I have this list for you. For Beginners to use my experiences to help them make a solid decision when buying their first pack.

If you are pressed for time and do not want to scroll down and read the rest of this article, here is a list of the Top 5 Backpacks for Beginners.

• BEST BACKPACK FOR PRICE AND VOLUME – Kelty Coyote 65L Backpack Mens/Womens
• BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK BACKPACK – REI Flash 55
• BEST BACKPACK ON A BUDGET – TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack
• BEST BACKPACK FOR COMFORT – Deuter Aircontact Core 50 + 10 Pack – Men’s
• BEST BACKPACK FOR WEIGHT – Gorilla 50 Ultralight Backpack

Note: If you would like information on backpacks and their features, see this article on this site.

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Kelty Coyote 65L Backpack Mens/Womens

BEST BACKPACK FOR PRICE AND VOLUME

PROS: lots of space, affordable price, good construction, durable pack, uses Amp Flow back plate for ventilation

CONS: Adjusting the back plate can be difficult, velcro is hard to undo when resizing, shoulder strap padding is thin

GREG’S REVIEW: I used this pack on a 3-day/2-night trip in February. With temperatures in the 20s, I utilized the size of this pack by stuffing it full with my winter gear. The downside is that my pack was heavy. The weight seemed to sit well but the shoulder pads lacked comfort. After several miles, I shed some layers and adjusted the sizing. It was not too difficult but could see how some may have an issue with the velcro.

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REI Flash 55

BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK BACKPACK

PROS: sized well for overnight or 3 nights, reservoir compatible, easily adjusted for sizing, offers good access to water bottle without taking off pack, lightweight for the size

CONS: design sacrificed a little durability for weight, the rain cover is not included, no straps underneath the pack

GREG’S REVIEW: This is my go-to 3-season backpack for an overnight or 2-night trip. REI Flash 55 is lightweight and sits well when I hike. I usually do not use a hydration reservoir when hiking, but I do with this pack. The water tube can be routed to either side and does not bother me when trekking along. I have been successful using this pack in winter but just doesn’t have the space and attachments I typically use for winter gear.

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TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack

BEST BACKPACK ON A BUDGET

PROS: functional pack at the lowest price, durable material, great first pack

CONS: uncomfortable, heavy in weight, pockets are difficult to use, bulky straps and buckles

GREG’S REVIEW: I bought this pack to see if I could accomplish a 45-mile trip over 3 days for under $300. Every piece of gear, food, and clothes, could not exceed $300. The total was $294. The gear I was carrying was not the most lightweight or the smallest in size. However, Scout 3400 did extremely well. It is definitely a heavier pack and not the most comfortable but held up well. The straps and buckles are bulky but are perfect if you like to attach gear or jackets to the outside of your pack.

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Deuter Aircontact Core 50 + 10 Pack – Men’s

BEST BACKPACK FOR COMFORT

PROS: very comfortable, effective load transfer, uses Aircontact back system, has an expandable collar on the main compartment provides 10 extra liters of storage space.

CONS: heavy, only 6 exterior pockets, lightly water resistant,

GREG’S REVIEW: Easily one of the most comfortable packs I have used. 4 day/3-night trip with pretty good elevation gain, the Deuter Aircontact felt good. The weight of the pack is distributed well and tight to your back, which keeps the pack from shifting around. The extra 10 Liter extension is nice for stuffing a jacket in the pack or extra space for more food. I have used it during winter several times and does well. Does not have as many pockets as I typically like in a pack though.

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Gorilla 50 Ultralight Backpack

BEST BACKPACK FOR WEIGHT

PROS: versatile, ultralight, durable, water bottle pockets accessible while wearing the pack

CONS: few pockets, foam backing

GREG’S REVIEW: I definitely do not consider my backpacking style Ultralight, but wanted to have a pack to do some serious miles on weekends if I wanted to. Gorilla 50 was perfect for exactly that. This pack is extremely light and sits well against my back. I have been able to knock out 30-mile trips overnight with this pack. Shoulder straps are comfortable and the hip belt forms well without friction. Great pack for the price as well.

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Backpacking is an experience all should have in their life. If you are looking for great tips and information about backpacking, check out the recent articles on this site. Remember to research, plan, and prepare so you can answer the call to adventure.