Hey there campers and welcome to my post where I will share my three best camping backpacks to stow your gear in this year. In general, backpacking is an adventure that combines hiking and camping which allows you to expand your horizons beyond the car campground and enjoy a more challenging and immersive outdoor experience. And if you are into this sort of thing, then you will know how essential it is to have a reliable backpack behind you.
So for those of you looking to purchase yourself a good camping backpack, let’s check out some of the options I have come up with below…
My three recommended backpacks for camping
I will review these in more detail below, but if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
| Camping Backpack | Price | Get it | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Loowoko Hiking Camping Backpack | $ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | TETON Sports Scout Backpack for Hiking Camping | $$ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | Kelty Coyote Travel Backpack | $$$ | CURRENT PRICE |
What are camping backpacks?
As the name suggests, a camping backpack is a large ‘carry bag’ that straps onto your back. They are most commonly used as schoolbags for kids however in this case we are discussing the larger options for those who frequently go hiking/trekking. Most have multiple attachment points for all of your gear, a spacious main compartment for clothes and other necessities, and, most importantly, a comfortable and ventilated back panel that will keep you cool and dry even in the warmest climates.
What Should You Be Looking For?
Below are some of the main factors you should take into account as you shop for a good backpack for camping:
- Weight and load range
- Padding and support
- Venilation
- Water proofing
- Gear organization
- Additions
1. Weight and load range
This feature is determined by the duration and goal of your trekking adventure. Backpacks can generally handle loads of around 30-50 pounds for several days and typically possess a capacity of 50-80 liters. Many are built with an internal frame and a suspension system along with numerous adjustment points to allow you to carry whatever weight you need to comfortably.
Ultralight backpacking is for experienced hikers who want to cut weight and carry only the necessities. If you’re thinking about getting an ultralight pack, you should first consider your pack load, beginning with your preferred base weight (the weight of your kit less the food and water). Stick with a traditional backpack if your base weight is more than 30 pounds and you do not want to reduce it. An ultralight pack is ideal for a 10-15 pound base weight.
2. Padding and support
If you are planning to travel long distances, then it is practical to consider the thickness and quality of the padding in the back panel, shoulder straps and hip belts as you shop for your backpack. A properly configured pack will put the majority of the weight on your hips, with the shoulder straps taking a light load and keeping the pack tucked in close to your back. Because the foam and the fabric that covers it adds weight, manufacturers constantly attempt to strike the right balance of weight and comfort. To increase comfort, look for backpacks that include foam padding in all carry touch points.
3. Ventilation
Some packs have a suspended mesh back panel to help prevent a build up of sweat and heat as you travel. This is a trampoline-like design in which the frame-supported main compartment rides a few inches away from your back, which instead rests against the highly breathable mesh. Other packs will have ventilation channels (sometimes called “chimneys”) in the back panel to address the same issue.
4. Water proofing
Another consideration is whether you want a completely waterproof backpack or a water-resistant backpack. The two have distinct characteristics. For one, a waterproof backpack is, of course, completely waterproof however it is often heavier with fewer features. A water-resistant bag, as the name implies, will only work to keep light spray and rain out.
If your bag is only water resistant, there are a number of options your could incorporate such as a waterproofing spray or a rain cover. Rain covers are water-resistant and cover the entire product, preventing water from entering zippers or other openings. Most backpack manufacturers sell rain covers that fit their packs – although a plastic garbage bag will often work just as well.
5. Gear organization
Another common need for a good camping backpack is the ability to handle all of the odds and ends that you need to take with you. Here then your area of focus should be the main compartment access and exterior pockets and pouches.
The majority of backpacks have a single top-loading compartment where you can store most of your belongings or gear. However, it is the extra compartments, hooks, latches and elastic holders (molle straps) that provide the extra value. The more of these compartments you can get without adding too much weight, the better.
6. Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Rain cover – As above, this serves as additional protection to your belongings since it enhances the waterproofing capability of your backpack.
- Compression straps – This addition tightens a pack from front to back and pulls the load close to your body, helping spread the load and stability. Check that the backpack you consider has these side compression straps at both the top and bottom. Additionally, these straps can also be used to store taller items (such as tent poles) along the side of your bag.
- Sternum straps – Nowadays, most backpacks include sternum straps. Most are elasticized and let you connect your shoulder straps across your chest for a more secure fit.
- Trekking pole and ice ax loops – The loop on the bottom of your backpack allows you to attach your ice ax and other long-handled objects securely. Simply insert the handle through the loop and bring it up flat to ensure safety and security. Trekking poles and tripods can also be attached and used as a primary anchor point.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Loowoko Hiking Camping Backpack
This first product is a great option for the casual backpacker with the option to pack up to 50 pounds with an anti-gravity suspension to ease pressure on the back. With breathable mesh padding and a rain cover included, it will handle most conditions with ease. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Loowoko
- Volume: 50 liters
- Compartments: 8
- Dimension: 22.28 x14.72 x 2.75 inches
- Material: Water-resistant, rip-stop Nylon
- Weight: 2.6 pounds (unfilled)
Other inclusions:
- Rain cover
- 8 Adjustable Straps for sleeping bags, mats, hammock, tripod etc.
- Dual access side and strap pockets
- Laptop sleeve (This may also function as your hydration pack.)
- Anti-gravity suspension
Why have I chosen it?
Whether you are a novice or an experienced trekker, this product is a great durable and multi-purpose day pack. It has all the straps and usable pockets you need to carry all your camping essentials and you can enjoy any kind of trail without any carrying discomfort due to the bag’s padded hip belt which improves weight distribution from your back to your hips.
2. TETON Sports Scout Backpack for Hiking, Camping
This next camping backpack has an internal frame, which sets it apart from many others with added comfort from a padded back panel for excellent airflow. The shoulder straps are adjustable according to the load to protect your back with durability designed to withstand anything you throw at, or in it. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Teton
- Volume: 55 liters
- Compartments: 6
- Dimension: 14 x 8 x 8 inches
- Material: Ripstop canvas
- Weight: 4.5 pounds (unfilled)
- Gender: Unisex
Other inclusions:
- Rain cover included
- Side pockets, gear loops, and compression straps for simple gear organisation
- Separate sleeping bag storage
- Multi-position torso adjustment
- Lifetime warranty
Why have I chosen this?
I recommend this adventure backpack due to its rugged and multi-functional design. It has fantastic gear organisation capabilities and fits the body contour of both adults and children alike due to its multi-positioning torso adjustment. This is a great option for those looking to get out and about for more than a few days.
3. Kelty Coyote Travel Backpack
This last product is made for demanding hiking adventures with a stable and sturdy frame that is able to carry a load amounting to 65 liters. It is loaded with various external storage pockets making it possible to secure all your necessary gear with comfort provided via the product’s Amp Flow ventilated back panel. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Kelty
- Volume: 65 liters
- Compartments: 8
- Dimension: 38 x 22 x 14 inches
- Material: Poly 420D Small Back Stafford
- Weight: 4 pounds (unfilled)
- Gender: Unisex
Other inclusions:
- Sleeping bag compartment
- Water bottle pocket
- Daisy chains and clips for gear organisation
- Durable zippers
- Aluminum frame
Why have I chosen this?
Organizing your trekking essentials inside this product is pretty easy since it has two large openings and copious external pockets. The cushioning materials are well place, and the harness system significantly helps lighten the burden as you finish your day trails. Moreover, the materials used for this camping backpack guarantee that it can stand well with the rough conditions of camping and long hikes in any environment.
Conclusion
There you have it, my three best camping backpacks to stow your gear in this year. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, please let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time
Have fun
Paul
