10 Foolproof Hiking Backpacks

• Osprey Ariel 60L/70L/85L from $290; Aether 55L/65L/75L from $290.

The women’s Ariel AG and men’s Aether AG are tailored to make heavy loads and long hikes easy on your back and shoulders. A customizable fit ensures the pack sits just right for your frame. The top lid snaps off to become a lightweight backpack for a short day hike from base camp or to stow under an airplane seat.

• Mafia, $172

Each Mafia Discover Pack is completely unique. The bags are made from used sails to create a durable, water-resistant, and ultra-light backpack. With a water bottle holder and gear loops, it’s easy to grab what you need while ascending. A laptop sleeve means you can swap out the trail mix for your commuting essentials.

• United By Blue, $88

Get ready to go back to your youth with this retro pack. Multiple pockets keep everything organized, and a sternum strap keeps it secure and comfortable on your shoulders. The 100% recycled polyester fabric has a durable water-repellent finish so your gear stays dry on the trails and on the streets. Even better, United By Blue removes one pound of trash from waterways around the world for every item sold.

• Mystery Ranch women's and men's, $229

Say hello to the most versatile hiking pack. With a 40L capacity, this pack transitions seamlessly from family day hikes to lightweight overnight backpacking to a week-long trip along the California coast. A unique 3-zip entry makes it easy to get what you need from the bottom of the bag no matter how stuffed. A hydration reservoir and a customizable fit keep you comfortable on the trail.

• Thule men's and women's, $119.95

You won’t have to worry about bouncing with this pack. Thule’s Capstone 22L includes a hip belt to help reduce the load on your shoulders, and a hiking pole holders make it easy to stow them on the go. A built-in rain cover keeps your gear dry in any weather while a tensioned mesh panel creates a comfortable airspace between you and the pack so you stay cool and dry too.

• Topo Designs pack $139; camera cube $59

Handmade in Colorado, the Rover Pack is built to withstand whatever you throw at it. Easy-access external pockets keep key gear in reach while on the move. Its classic style and 15-inch laptop sleeve will win you over for daily use. Add their camera cube to keep your camera body and lenses safe on rugged trips or around town.

• Patagonia, $129

This lightweight pack is built for day hiking and trail running. At less than a pound, the pack won’t weigh you down. Its 2L hydration reservoir stays secure, and vest style shoulder straps have stretch pockets for hand bottles, hydration flasks, or easy to grab snacks. A compression strap cinches everything in to prevent bouncing and keep the weight close to your body.

• CamelBak, $145

Forget everything you think you know about hydration packs. This 21L pack includes a 3L hydration reservoir and plenty of pockets to stow your gear. Articulated back panels improve airflow and help keep you, and your water, cool. Compression straps and a hip belt make it easy to adjust how the pack sits.

• Kelty, $299.95

Comfort and safety are king when your cargo is this precious. Kelty’s JPMA-certified child carrier includes a sunshade and a 5-point adjustable harness to provide a comfortable ride for children under 40 pounds. A quick-adjust suspension system makes it easy to share the pack and get the perfect fit while out on the trail. The carrier also includes a daypack so you can bring everything you need for the whole family.

• Cotopaxi, $79.95

Don’t let the stylish cotton canvas and suede leather bottom fool you. This water-resistant pack is built to withstand your wildest hikes and travels. The internal mesh organizer is perfect for storing your headlamp, phone, and keys so you can grab them without looking. You can feel good about your purchase too – Cotopaxi works with nonprofits to fund poverty relief around the world.