For any outdoor enthusiast, from those embarking on a short summer day walk to seasoned adventurers tackling long multi-day backpacking treks, a truly reliable backpack isn’t just a convenience – it’s an absolute hiking essential. It’s surprising how much gear even a seemingly short hike requires, especially when heading into the wilds away from civilization. Whether it’s waterproofs, warm layers, water, food, or critical navigation kit, even just the essentials demand something far more capable than your everyday pockets.
While first-time hikers might initially reach for an old sports pack or a school bag, there are undeniable, significant advantages to investing in a pack specifically designed for hiking. The market, however, is flooded with options, and navigating the vast array of outdoor brands all proclaiming to offer the ‘best’ hiking packs can be genuinely bewildering. Our extensive experience, spanning years of hands-on testing and abuse in every conceivable environment, has taught us that true value isn’t always about the highest price tag or the loudest marketing.
This is where the concept of ‘undervalued’ comes into play, not just in terms of a low price, but in offering exceptional long-term value, durability, and performance that often surpasses their public recognition or price point. We’ve meticulously selected 12 backpack brands that, based on our rigorous testing methodology and expert insights, represent smart buys for hikers this season. These are the packs that consistently deliver, offering outstanding comfort, innovative features, and rugged reliability without necessarily demanding a premium, making them true investments in your outdoor adventures. Let’s dive into our top picks, starting with some of the most consistent performers in the field.
1. **Osprey**Osprey, a Californian brand, has arguably become the most popular hiking rucksack brand in the world. This isn’t just hyperbole; it’s based on the sheer number of their Talon and Tempest packs observed across the UK hills. This widespread affection for Osprey is well-earned, stemming from a relentless pursuit of comfort, versatility, and intelligent design that makes their packs a smart investment for any serious hiker.
Their commitment to ergonomic excellence is evident in their innovative back systems, such as AirScape, AirSpeed, and AntiGravity. These technologies ensure that Osprey packs deliver unparalleled comfort, whether you’re carrying the smallest day pack or the mightiest load-bearing backpacking rig. This exceptional comfort means that even under heavy loads or during extended treks, the weight is distributed effectively, minimizing strain and maximizing enjoyment on the trail.
Beyond comfort, Osprey packs are renowned for their versatility, offering a multitude of storage and stowage options that cater to diverse hiking needs. Whether your adventure calls for a rucksack designed for fast and light day hikes in challenging terrains or a highly technical pack capable of performing in the toughest environments, Osprey consistently provides a solution that fits the bill. Our pick of the range, the Osprey Tempest 30, exemplifies this blend of comfort and adaptability, making it a stellar choice for a wide array of outdoor pursuits.
Despite some of their models, like the Osprey Airscape UNLTD at $700, being a significant investment, the value proposition of Osprey lies in their superior design, durability, and the peace of mind offered by their ‘all-mighty guarantee.’ While this guarantee has some exceptions for airline damage, accidental damage, hard use, wear & tear, or damp-related damage, it still stands as one of the best on the market, underscoring the brand’s confidence in their product’s longevity. This commitment to enduring quality makes Osprey an incredibly smart, long-term buy, ensuring your pack will be a reliable companion for countless adventures.
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2. **Berghaus**A true mainstay of the UK hiking scene, Berghaus boasts a rich heritage dating back to its formation in the North East of England in 1966. The founders strategically chose a Germanic-sounding name to position themselves competitively against the leading European brands of the era. This foundational drive for innovation and quality has been a constant throughout their history, cementing their reputation as a reliable choice for hikers.
Berghaus’s pioneering spirit was evident from the outset, launching their first rucksacks with external frames and basic single compartments in 1970. Just two years later, in 1972, they introduced the Cyclops rucksack, a groundbreaking innovation widely considered the world’s first rucksack to feature an internal frame. This pivotal development dramatically improved load stability and carrying comfort, setting a new benchmark for backpack design and demonstrating Berghaus’s forward-thinking approach.
Over the decades, Berghaus has continued to develop and innovate, expanding its range to create rucksacks suitable for everything from daily commutes to arduous epic backpacking trips. Their trekking-focused backpacks, in particular, cater to a broad spectrum of users, including both casual day hikers seeking comfort and functionality, and hardcore mountaineers demanding robust, performance-driven gear. Our team at LFTO has put Berghaus packs through their paces over many years, consistently finding them to reliably carry kit in comfort, affirming their status as a consistently undervalued performer in the outdoor market.
The enduring appeal of Berghaus lies in its combination of historical innovation, proven reliability, and continuous adaptation to the needs of modern hikers. While not always the flashiest on the market, their consistent performance and solid construction offer excellent long-term value. The Berghaus Arrow Rucksack 30, our pick of their range, embodies the brand’s commitment to practical design and durability, making it an intelligent choice for those who prioritize dependable functionality on the trails.
3. **Decathlon (Quechua and Forclaz)**Decathlon, the French giant, is not only the largest sporting goods retailer in the world but also a prolific producer of its own extensive range of sports and outdoor equipment. While perhaps not always considered a specialist backpack brand in the traditional sense, their Quechua and Forclaz brands have made a significant impact, particularly within the hiking, camping, and trekking markets, representing an incredible value proposition that often goes underappreciated.
Spend any time in European cities or on hiking trails, and you’ll quickly notice the ubiquity of Quechua rucksacks. These packs have carved out a loyal following due to their practical design and, crucially, their accessibility. The Forclaz label typically designates more technical packs, designed to meet the demands of more challenging expeditions. Despite their differing focuses, both brands share a fundamental characteristic that makes them truly undervalued: they offer incredible value for money, a quality that resonates deeply with the Wirecutter ethos of smart purchasing.
What truly sets Decathlon’s own brands apart is their ability to deliver functional, durable, and comfortable packs at comparatively low prices. This commitment to affordability without sacrificing essential performance makes them an ideal entry point for new hikers and a savvy choice for experienced trekkers looking to maximize their budget without compromising on reliability. Our pick from their range, the Quechua Mountain hiking backpack 40L, is a prime example of this philosophy, providing substantial capacity and thoughtful features at a price point that is hard to beat.
The extensive testing performed by our team on packs like the Quechua Mountain 30L backpack confirms that these brands punch well above their weight. They are designed to withstand regular use, offering the necessary features for successful outdoor excursions, from sturdy construction to adequate storage solutions. For hikers seeking maximum bang for their buck, Decathlon’s Quechua and Forclaz brands are unequivocally smart buys, proving that high performance and enduring value don’t always require a premium price tag.
4. **Deuter**With a history stretching back over a century and a quarter, Deuter stands as a titan in the world of rucksack manufacturing. Founded in Augsburg in 1898, this German brand has an impressive lineage, having supplied the Bavarian Royal Mail with post sacks and mail bags in the early 1900s, and then manufacturing backpacks for the military starting in 1910. Their extensive experience culminated in 1968 with the creation of the first nylon backpack series on the market, a material that would revolutionize backpack design and become the industry standard.
Deuter has cultivated a formidable reputation as a producer of technical and exceptionally tough rucksacks, built to carry almost any load across virtually any terrain. Their packs have been the go-to choice for numerous mountain expeditions, a common sight in the Alps, the Himalaya, and other challenging environments worldwide. This proven performance in extreme conditions speaks volumes about their quality and durability, marking them as a reliable and often undervalued investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
What makes Deuter particularly compelling for value-focused hikers is their consistent delivery of sophisticated ergonomic solutions combined with robust construction. Their Air Contact system, for instance, provides exceptional ventilation and comfort, even when carrying heavy loads for extended periods. This focus on engineering excellence ensures that a Deuter pack is not just a carrier but an integral part of a comfortable and efficient trekking experience, aligning perfectly with Wirecutter’s emphasis on long-term performance.
Our pick of the range, the Deuter Guide, exemplifies the brand’s dedication to producing packs that are both technical and tough, capable of handling the most demanding adventures. Models like the Deuter Speed Lite 21 (priced around $80) also demonstrate their ability to offer superb quality at accessible price points, providing fantastic value for a small hiking backpack. Investing in a Deuter pack means investing in a legacy of reliability and innovation, ensuring your gear will stand the test of time and countless miles on the trail.
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5. **Exped**Hailing from Switzerland, Exped upholds the national reputation for producing high-quality products that function flawlessly. Established in 1983, Exped initially began as a distributor for various iconic outdoor brands before transitioning to producing its own equipment. This background provided them with a unique insight into what makes gear truly effective, leading to a design philosophy encapsulated by the Swiss principle of “ohne schnickschnack” – or ‘no frills’.
This ‘no frills’ approach means Exped’s products, and particularly their range of packs, are devoid of the extraneous faff and unnecessary complexities often found on other outdoor gear. The result is a collection of backpacks that are tough yet remarkably streamlined, focusing purely on efficient functionality. These packs are crafted for hikers, trekkers, and climbers who prioritize a rucksack that will carry their kit efficiently with minimum fuss and maximum effectiveness, representing a clear value proposition in their deliberate simplicity and durability.
Exped’s dedication to robust, minimalist design ensures that their packs are incredibly reliable and long-lasting. They are built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors, offering dependable performance year after year. This focus on core utility and enduring construction means that an Exped pack, while perhaps not always the cheapest upfront, provides exceptional long-term value through its sheer resilience and unwavering functionality. This aligns perfectly with the Wirecutter philosophy of investing in products that offer the best long-term value, durability, and performance.
Our pick of the range, the Exped Impulse 20, showcases this commitment to efficient, no-nonsense design. It’s a pack that understands its purpose and executes it brilliantly, making it a smart choice for those who appreciate understated quality and performance. For hikers seeking a durable, high-performing pack that cuts through the noise with its focused design and Swiss-engineered reliability, Exped is undoubtedly an undervalued brand deserving of significant consideration.
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6. **Gregory Packs**Designed from their headquarters in Salt Lake City, USA, Gregory Packs are increasingly gaining traction and a well-deserved reputation within the UK hills, despite perhaps not being as ubiquitous as some other brands. Their philosophy, encapsulated by the belief that ‘great packs should be worn not carried,’ is the driving force behind their commitment to creating the most comfortable and reliable packs possible. This singular focus on ergonomic excellence makes them an often-overlooked but incredibly smart choice for discerning hikers.
Gregory Packs achieves its goal of superior comfort through a combination of cutting-edge technology and forward-thinking backpack design. They consistently innovate to ensure that their packs integrate seamlessly with the wearer’s body, making heavy loads feel lighter and more manageable over extended periods. This dedication to fit and comfort is a significant factor in their growing, yet still somewhat ‘undervalued,’ reputation, as many hikers prioritize these attributes for enjoyable long-term use.
A notable recent development is Gregory Packs’ leadership in designing rucksacks specifically for plus sizes, an important step towards inclusivity in outdoor gear. This ensures that every body type can take full advantage of their enormously comfortable load-carrying solutions, a testament to their commitment to practical, user-focused design. This innovation highlights their proactive approach to meeting diverse hiker needs, further enhancing their value proposition.
Our pick of the range, the Gregory Stout 45 Daypack, is a prime example of the brand’s ability to combine ample capacity with outstanding carrying comfort. For hikers who value a pack that truly feels like an extension of their body, offering both reliability and innovative design, Gregory Packs represents an excellent, yet still blossoming, investment. Their dedication to comfort and fit makes them a standout choice that deserves more widespread recognition among the hiking community, ensuring that your miles on the trail are as comfortable as they are memorable.
Continuing our exploration into the realm of top-tier, yet often overlooked backpack brands, we delve into another six selections that exemplify proven durability, specialized designs, and a steadfast commitment to value. These brands, meticulously evaluated through extensive testing, stand as essential gear choices for any discerning adventurer looking for a smart, long-term investment in their outdoor pursuits.
7. **Fjällräven**Hailing from the small town of Örnsköldsvik in Sweden, Fjällräven has cultivated a unique position, seamlessly bridging the gap between high-performance outdoor equipment and everyday lifestyle gear. While their iconic Kånken backpack might often be seen gracing boutique fashion stores and the shoulders of trendsetters, the brand’s dedicated hiking packs unequivocally remain among the best investments a hiker can make. This dual appeal, where style meets serious substance, ensures that Fjällräven maintains a loyal following across diverse user groups.
In true Swedish style, Fjällräven’s approach to backpack design prioritizes simplicity and practicality, delivering packs that are intuitive to use and highly effective. They frequently incorporate natural materials such as canvas and wood in some of their backpack designs, a testament to their commitment to sustainable practices and robust construction. This material choice not only enhances durability but also provides a distinct aesthetic that sets them apart from more synthetic-focused brands, offering a unique value proposition for eco-conscious hikers.
Beyond their distinctive aesthetic and material choices, Fjällräven’s rucksack range includes highly technical performers capable of reliably transporting loads of all sizes safely and comfortably across varied terrains. These packs are engineered for the rigors of the trail, featuring thoughtful compartments and support systems that minimize strain during extended expeditions. The brand’s unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility further enhances their value, with everything they do reflecting the utmost respect for the natural world.
Our pick of the range, the Fjällräven Kajka 35, perfectly embodies this blend of understated quality, practical design, and environmental consciousness. For hikers seeking a pack that not only performs exceptionally on demanding trails but also aligns with a lifestyle of thoughtful consumption and enduring quality, Fjällräven represents an undeniably smart and often undervalued choice that delivers reliable performance with distinct character.
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8. **Lowe Alpine**As one of the best-known rucksack brands globally, Lowe Alpine boasts a storied history that began in Utah in 1972, founded by the renowned mountain climbing brothers Mike, Greg, and Jeff Lowe. However, its true genesis predates the official company establishment, with Greg Lowe crafting his groundbreaking ‘Expedition Pack’ featuring internal resin laminate stays as early as 1967. This pioneering innovation, the first of its kind, revolutionized backpack design by significantly improving load stability and carrying comfort, a testament to the brand’s foundational spirit of innovation.
Nearly six decades on, Lowe Alpine has steadfastly maintained its core focus on packs, even after dabbling in other outdoor equipment like clothing. This singular dedication has allowed them to consistently produce rucksacks for an exhaustive array of purposes, including hiking, trekking, backpacking, and climbing, each meticulously designed and solidly built to withstand the harshest conditions. Their reputation for immaculate design and robust construction positions them as a trusted choice for adventurers who demand uncompromising reliability from their gear.
In 2011, Lowe Alpine was acquired by Equip Outdoor Technologies Limited, the parent company of the prominent UK brand Rab. While this acquisition integrated Lowe Alpine into a larger corporate structure, its distinct identity and commitment to producing top-tier packs have remained unblemished. In fact, their deep well of rucksack design and production experience has proved invaluable, contributing to the broader expertise within the Equip family of brands, demonstrating a strategic evolution that further cements their legacy.
Today, the Lowe Alpine name continues to grace some of the most reliable backpacking, trekking, and hiking rucksacks found in outdoor shops across the UK. Our pick of the range, the Lowe Alpine Sirac 65L, exemplifies the brand’s enduring commitment to high-capacity, comfortable, and supremely durable load-carrying solutions. For hikers prioritizing a proven track record of innovation, meticulous construction, and unwavering reliability for long-term adventures, Lowe Alpine stands as an exceptionally undervalued brand.
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9. **Rab**Historically, Rab was primarily recognized as a leading brand for high-performance clothing and sleeping bags, earning a formidable reputation within the mountaineering and climbing communities for its commitment to quality and warmth. Their foray into the rucksack arena is a relatively recent development, a strategic evolution catalyzed by the acquisition of Lowe Alpine in 2011 by Rab’s parent company, Equip Outdoor Technologies. This pivotal event granted Rab invaluable access to an extensive reservoir of rucksack design and production expertise.
It is only in recent years that the Rab name has begun to appear on packs, signaling a deliberate expansion into new product categories. Rather than directly replicating Lowe Alpine’s comprehensive range of general hiking and trekking packs, Rab has strategically focused its rucksack offerings on ‘fast and vertical’ activities. This specialized approach targets disciplines such as running, climbing, and cycling, aligning with Rab’s established identity as a brand for technical, performance-driven pursuits.
Despite this specialized focus, many of Rab’s more technical packs are ideally suited for adventurous hiking, offering a compelling alternative for those whose trekking involves more challenging terrains or faster paces. For instance, their climbers’ rucksacks excel as winter gear carriers, providing the robust construction and streamlined profiles needed for cold-weather expeditions. Similarly, their minimalist, streamlined runners’ packs are perfectly adapted for fast and light summer hikes, minimizing weight without compromising essential functionality.
Our pick of the range, the Rab Ascendor 35:40L Mountain Pack, perfectly illustrates this blend of technical prowess and versatile application. It’s designed to meet the rigorous demands of mountain environments, offering a lightweight yet durable solution for those who push the boundaries of their hiking adventures. For hikers who value cutting-edge design, specialized performance, and the robust engineering synonymous with the Rab name, their packs represent a new frontier of undervalued quality, particularly for dynamic outdoor pursuits.
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10. **Mammut**Another brand distinguished by its Swiss pedigree, Mammut is a globally recognized outdoor equipment manufacturer where rucksacks constitute just one facet of its extensive product portfolio. Their comprehensive range of packs caters to an impressively diverse array of activities, including hiking, mountaineering, climbing, running, skiing, and even everyday urban use. This breadth of offerings underscores Mammut’s deep engineering capabilities and its commitment to producing high-quality gear across the entire outdoor spectrum.
In the UK, it is particularly Mammut’s hiking and mountaineering ranges that have garnered significant favor, earning a strong reputation among local adventurers. Their Trion packs, in particular, have been exceptionally well-received, lauded for their remarkable ability to perform effectively as both nimble day hikers and robust, heavily laden winter packs. This versatility is a hallmark of Mammut’s design philosophy, ensuring that their packs deliver consistent performance regardless of seasonal conditions or load requirements.
Mammut’s collection of rucksacks is characterized by a highly technical approach, integrating the most modern technology and cutting-edge designs into every product. Yet, despite this advanced engineering, they consistently retain the streamlined efficiency that is the hallmark of expertly crafted Swiss-made kit. This balance of innovation and elegant simplicity ensures that their packs are not only high-performing but also remarkably user-friendly and durable, making them a smart investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
Our pick of the range, the Mammut Trion 50, stands as a prime example of the brand’s dedication to robust, versatile, and technically advanced design. It is built to endure the most demanding mountain expeditions while providing the comfort and organization needed for extended trips. For hikers seeking a multi-functional pack that combines Swiss precision, exceptional durability, and innovative features for both day excursions and challenging winter adventures, Mammut offers an undervalued yet highly capable solution.
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11. **Montane**Montane has become synonymous with the production of exceptionally lightweight and breathable clothing and equipment, firmly establishing itself as a go-to brand for fast and agile outdoor pursuits. Their brand motto, “Further faster,” encapsulates this core philosophy, an approach they have meticulously applied to the design and engineering of their rucksacks. This direct transfer of their performance-driven DNA is evident in the aesthetic and ergonomic fit of all Montane’s packs, which exude a clear trail running and fast-and-light heritage.
Even hikers who prefer a more measured pace will find immense benefits in Montane’s streamlined, lightweight, and supremely comfortable packs. The emphasis on reducing bulk and weight, combined with sophisticated load-carrying systems, translates into reduced fatigue and enhanced agility on the trail, making every mile more enjoyable. This intrinsic comfort and efficiency, derived from a fast-and-light design philosophy, provides a compelling value proposition even for those not explicitly seeking to break speed records.
While Montane’s pack range may not offer extensive options for multi-day backpacking trips that require enormous carrying capacities, hikers looking for a dedicated pack for single-day excursions – be they summer strolls, winter rambles, or all-season treks – will find themselves spoiled for choice. Their specialization in daypacks means they have refined features like accessibility, ventilation, and fit to an exceptional degree, making them highly optimized for shorter, more dynamic adventures.
Our pick of the range, the Montane Trailblazer 25L, perfectly exemplifies the brand’s commitment to delivering high-performance, lightweight solutions for day hikes. It’s a pack designed for efficiency, comfort, and quick access to essentials, making it an intelligent investment for anyone prioritizing agility and comfort on day trips. For discerning hikers seeking a pack that embodies speed, lightness, and uncompromising comfort for single-day adventures, Montane is an often-undervalued brand offering truly outstanding performance.
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12. **Salewa**Based in the stunning Dolomites region, Salewa is a brand that produces an entire range of superb clothing and equipment, yet it remains, for reasons unfathomable, a less common sight in the UK hills compared to many other brands on this list. However, quantity is by no means a measure of quality, and Salewa’s packs—particularly their MountainTrainer, Alp Mate, and Ortles rucksacks—are consistently recognized for their exceptional design, brilliant functionality, and undeniably appealing aesthetics. This blend of form and function highlights their often-underappreciated value.
Salewa packs tend to lean towards the more technical side of things, appealing to hikers and mountaineers who require specialized features and robust construction for challenging environments. These are not merely carriers but meticulously engineered tools, designed to integrate seamlessly with the demands of technical alpine pursuits. This focus on performance-driven design ensures that their packs are built to withstand harsh conditions and support complex gear requirements, offering a level of capability that discerning users will greatly appreciate.
What sets Salewa apart is their commitment to creating gear that is not only highly functional but also visually striking. Their designs often incorporate clean lines and thoughtful details that contribute to their overall appeal, proving that high performance doesn’t have to come at the expense of style. This attention to both the practical and aesthetic elements makes a Salewa pack a satisfying investment for those who value gear that looks as good as it performs.
Our pick of the range, the Salewa Ortles Guide 45, epitomizes the brand’s dedication to crafting technical, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing mountaineering and trekking packs. For hikers who appreciate a robust, brilliantly functional, and visually appealing pack designed for more demanding excursions, Salewa represents an excellent, yet still somewhat overlooked, choice. Their consistent delivery of quality makes them a smart buy for anyone ready to explore beyond the beaten path.
Choosing the right backpack is a deeply personal journey, one that can significantly impact the enjoyment and success of your outdoor adventures. As our extensive review demonstrates, true value in the hiking gear market isn’t always found among the most heavily advertised or highest-priced options. Instead, it often resides with these ‘undervalued’ brands—those that consistently deliver exceptional comfort, innovative design, unwavering durability, and a genuine commitment to the hiker’s experience, often surpassing expectations relative to their market recognition. By investing in one of these meticulously tested and expert-approved packs, you’re not just buying a bag; you’re securing a reliable companion that will enhance countless trails, carry your essentials with ease, and ultimately, elevate your entire outdoor journey for seasons to come. So, equip yourself wisely, embrace the wilderness, and let your chosen pack be the silent, steadfast partner on every unforgettable adventure.
