Backpacks

Transforming outdoor life enthusiasts into modern-day Sherpas

Whether you're on a day trek, climbing a mountain or wandering the desert for 40 days, the right pack can make the journey seem shorter and lighter. The wrong pack? Well, as The Beatles said, “Boy, you're gonna carry that weight a long time.”

Once your outdoor adventure is underway, you and your pack will be inseparable most days, so make sure you take the time to choose this travel companion wisely. When looking for a pack, consider

Great Resources for Backpacks

Janilink - Quality Backpack Vacuums We have a wide variety of Backpack Vacuums at aggressive prices. Fast delivery and excellent service.www.janilink.com

Kelty Backpacks: Check Our Prices Kelty backpacks for all occasions, for one-day hikes or seven day excursions. We also have the Cloud 6500 for extreme high country conditions.www.barronmall.com

Safe and Simple - MyClearBackpack.com Clear and mesh outdoor backpacks and bags from MyClearBackpack.com.www.myclearbackpack.com

Sponsor Links (what's this?)

Accessibility: Look for an easy-to-pack model and with outer compartments for items you might need along the trail.
Material: Lightweight materials are a must, but also look for packs that are strong, durable, tear-resistant and waterproof. Large zippers and strong double-stitched seams are other features to consider.
Fit: These aren't one-size-fits-all gear. Some are designed specifically to fit the female physique, while others simply fit your torso length.
Frame: Do you want a pack with an internal or external frame?

Looking for the right pack? We've listed the main kinds of backpacks to head you in the right direction:

Daypacks: These range from your standard daypack designed for school kids to specialized models with hydration packs for mountaineers and skiers. Of course, there's something for everyone in between.
Alpine packs: Lightweight and sleek, these won't hold you back when you're scaling the side of a mountain. Most have external compartments for picks, ropes and other climbing essentials. Hydration units are another useful feature for climbers.
Backpacking backpacks: While the name sounds redundant, these packs are a must-have. With a variety of pockets, sizes, shapes and features, there's something for every hiker, camper and day tripper. Made for comfort more than agility, these are designed for hikers more than climbers or skiers.
Expedition packs / travel packs: Made for the long haul, these are generally large but lightweight. Whether you're on a multi-day trek or backpacking the summer away in Europe, there's a model to suit your needs.

Once you've narrowed your search, compare features. Our pages are full of feature-by-feature comparisons of packs by name brand manufacturers like Kelty, Lowe Alpine and Osprey. A wide range of backpacks is also available at our Nomadik Outdoor Oufitters.