Whether you are just starting out or an experienced hiker, a good hiking backpack is one of the most important pieces of gear that you will want to invest in. When looking for your perfect pack, there are so many things to consider! How big does it need to be, how light the pack itself is, what compartments and features you absolutely cannot do without. Check out our article about the best cheap hiking backpacks (What are the best cheap hiking backpacks) for the best deals.
For those of us who like to be organized on the trail, one of the most important things about a backpack is how many different pockets it has and how they are arranged. Smart arrangement of compartments, pockets and pouches allows you to easily access items that you are most likely to need on a trail. So instead of stopping to take off your pack and search the main compartment, you can just reach for the small pocket on your hip belt and grab a snack, a compass or a small bottle of sunscreen! It is easy, quick and will not disrupt your pace.
If you like to be organized and meticulously plan your trips, you should look for a backpack with lots of compartments and outer pockets. Here are our top suggestions.
AmazonBasics Internal Frame Hiking Backpack with Rainfly
This internal-frame backpack comes in three sizes – 50 liter, 60 liter and 70 liter capacity. What all of them have in common is a trendy design with a lot of storage pockets and compartments. It has a large sleeping-bag compartment at the bottom of the pack, as well as several outer pockets with zippers. Two of the side pockets are made of see-through mesh so you can easily see the contents without even opening them.
This backpack has a removable extension collar that will give you additional 5 liter storage space at the top of the pack.
This pack also has multi-directional compression straps that secures your gear in place and prevents items from jostling around. Reviewers were impressed by the pack’s convenient and user-friendly design but advised that this backpack is better suited for beginners, not experienced hikers. It will appeal to hikers looking for a bargain because it is reasonably priced.
Extensive storage pockets and compartments; large sleeping-bag compartment; multi-directional compression straps
Adjustable straps and padded shoulder straps for a comfortable fit;
Roamm Nomad 65+15 Internal Frame Backpack With Detachable Daypack
This hiking backpack has a unique design featuring a detachable daypack – leave it on the pack when you need a lot of storage space of take it off if you can leave your main bag at camp! This provides easy access to all the essentials on the go without having to reach into the main compartment.
This pack has a sleeping back compartment. It also has mesh side pockets with reinforced bottom where you can easily fit a large water bottle, tent poles, a tripod for your camera or a snow picket without any worries that they might fall out or rip through the fabric.
You will also find zippered pockets on the hip belt. You can conveniently store your phone, wallet, snacks or compass there so that you can grab them immediately without having to take off your pack. In addition to the pockets, the pack also features loops that can be used to attach tools and gear to the pack.
Although the Nomad is relatively pricey, users agree that it is a good investment. It is high-quality, durable and comfortable even on longer trips.
Enjoy a comfortable and perfect fit with fully adjustable shoulder harnesses. Easily fit your oversized water bottle in the mesh side pockets, and the reinforced bottom of the side pockets let you carry tent poles, tripods, or snow pickets with peace of mind.
Stash extra layers or wet gear in the large front stretch pocket. It’s the perfect bag for all your outdoor adventures with 80L liters of storage.
Osprey Packs Women’s Aura AG 65 Hiking Backpack
This backpack is specifically designed for women that is easily adjustable to your body size and shape, nicely ventilated and lightweight. This pack has a lower compartment for your sleeping bag and a removable floating top lid with zippered pockets for storing some of the things you have brought on the trail.
The Aura AG 65 also has dual access stretch mesh side pockets where you can keep water bottles, tools and gear, as well as an internal hydration reservoir sleeve that can holdup to 3 liters of liquid.
Additionally, there are two zippered pockets on the hip belt for super easy access to things you need to get out quickly, like your phone, photo camera, snacks or keys.
Reviewers agree that this pack is of excellent quality and design but some adjustments or functions might be difficult to figure out on your own or from the marketing materials, so you might have to turn to internet forums or reach out to Osprey sales representatives.
Anti-Gravity suspension - feels like you are carrying less weight than is in your pack. Adjustable harness and Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt to dial in perfect fit.
Front stretch mesh pocket for quick storage of rain gear or extra layers.
Removable floating top lid with dual zippered pockets and web attachment points.
If you feel like these backpacks are not what you are looking for or if you want to upgrade a pack you already have, take a look at the Backpack Pockets & Pouches section on Amazon. You will find add-on pockets and pouches that you can attach to your pack for extra storage space and convenience.
