OutdoorGearLab

We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the best all-around backpacking backpacks. It's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds. It's not surprising that this pack has earned a cult-like following. What sets the Atmos 65 AG apart the most, though, is Osprey's innovative anti-gravity &#40;AG&#41; suspension, which helps spread the load more evenly across the hips and shoulders while also venting excess heat that tends to build behind your back and under the hip belt. The plush, tapered, breathable foam shoulder straps are dreamy. For average trips with loads at or under 40 pounds, this is one of the more comfortable packs in our review. Every pocket is a good size and thoughtfully placed. Moreover, the Atmos offers an excellent fit with efficient adjustability focused on ergonomics.  
Still, at a weight of 4.5 lbs, this pack approaches a mass that starts to feel a bit overengineered. If you plan to consistently haul loads of 45 pounds or more you should consider a different model — this pack doesn't handle heavy loads as well as a pack that's close to 5 pounds probably should. Finally, while most users have a good experience with the Atmos 65 AG, some testers found the waistbelt confining and too hug-like, especially when trying to adjust clothing.  

Switchback Travel

The Atmos AG (and women’s Aura AG) is our top backpacking backpack of the year, deftly balancing comfort, organization, and durability. The attention grabber is the “Anti-Gravity” suspended mesh backpanel, which replaces the protruding foam found on more traditional designs to maximize both ventilation and comfort. But that’s not all the Atmos has going for it: The pocket design is thoughtfully laid out with plenty of options to divvy up gear, the new Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt offer an easily customizable fit, and the premium materials hold up well to rough treatment. Overall, the Atmos is an extremely well-rounded backpack that works great for anything from quick overnight trips to extended jaunts into the backcountry.

With a revamp in the spring of 2022, the most recent Atmos tacks on two side zips for more convenient access to the main compartment, a torso length adjustment, and an integrated raincover. Osprey also modified the pack’s fabrics to prioritize sustainability (like a lot of gear manufacturers, they’ve moved to a PFC-free durable water repellent finish). Subsequently, the Atmos AG 65 also got a price bump (it’s up $30 with the recent update), which surprisingly makes it even pricier than the souped-up Aether below. But you won’t find a better balance of weight, carrying comfort, and features for everything from quick overnight missions to week-long backpacking trips, once more earning the Atmos AG 65 a spot at the top of our list... Read in-depth reviewSee the Men's Osprey Atmos AG 65  See the Women's Osprey Aura AG 65

We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the best all-around backpacking backpacks. It's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds. It's not surprising that this pack has earned a cult-like following. What sets the Atmos 65 AG apart the most, though, is Osprey's innovative anti-gravity &#40;AG&#41; suspension, which helps spread the load more evenly across the hips and shoulders while also venting excess heat that tends to build behind your back and under the hip belt. The plush, tapered, breathable foam shoulder straps are dreamy. For average trips with loads at or under 40 pounds, this is one of the more comfortable packs in our review. Every pocket is a good size and thoughtfully placed. Moreover, the Atmos offers an excellent fit with efficient adjustability focused on ergonomics.  
Still, at a weight of 4.5 lbs, this pack approaches a mass that starts to feel slightly over-engineered. If you plan to haul loads of 45 pounds or more consistently, you should consider a different model — this pack doesn't handle heavy loads as well as a pack that's close to 5 pounds probably should. Finally, while most users have a good experience with the Atmos 65 AG, some testers found the waistbelt confining and too hug-like, especially when adjusting clothing.  
Read more: Osprey Atmos 65 AG review

amazon.com

expert-review

Osprey Atmos AG 65 Backpack Review

Switchback Travel | Osprey Atmos AG 65 Backpack (2022) Review

Osprey Atmos 65 AG Backpack | Backpackers.com

Brutally Honest Osprey Atmos AG 65 - How Does It Fare in 2022?

Missions in the mountains require packs that can handle two main things. First, the pack must be able to carry heavy loads. Second, it must be burly, which means it needs to offer protection from abrasions and keep its contents safe from rain and snow. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Porter 55 does all of these things with style. It's simple and sleek, with a roll-top closure and lots of external lashing options. Its side straps can accommodate skis, boots, tent poles, or ropes, while its small waist belt pockets can hold snacks, phones, and sunscreen. We liked this pack's size, as it is a bit more versatile than some of its larger siblings from Hyperlite. The Dyneema used in its construction makes it one of the most durable and water-resistant packs we've tested.  
Unfortunately, all of this comes at a cost. Hyperlite packs are some of the priciest on the market. You'll want to be sure this is the tool you need before throwing down so much cash. Also, if you're into pockets and features and bells and whistles, this pack may be a bit disappointing. 

Missions in the mountains require packs that can handle two main things. First, the pack must be able to carry heavy loads. Second, it must be burly, which means it needs to offer protection from abrasions and keep its contents safe from rain and snow. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Porter 55 does all of these things with style. It's simple and sleek, with a roll-top closure and lots of external lashing options. Its side straps can accommodate skis, boots, tent poles, or ropes, while its small waist belt pockets can hold snacks, phones, and sunscreen. We liked this pack's size, as it is a bit more versatile than some of its larger siblings from Hyperlite. The Dyneema used in its construction makes it one of the most durable and water-resistant packs we've tested.  
Unfortunately, all of this comes at a cost. Hyperlite packs are some of the priciest on the market. You'll want to be sure this is the tool you need before throwing down so much cash. Also, if you're into pockets and features and bells and whistles, this pack may be a bit disappointing. 
Read more: Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Porter 55 review

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Backpacks: How to Choose

Review: Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider Ultralight Backpack - The Big Outside

Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest Backpack Review

yotpo

The REI Flash 55 is an inexpensive, lightweight, and well-designed backpacking backpack. It weighs a mere 2.6 pounds. And, it can comfortably carry loads up to 30 pounds. The Packmod system enables you to customize the pack for your needs by moving or eliminating virtually all external pockets and straps. We particularly loved this feature. There are two "extra" side pockets between the water bottle pockets and the front stretch pocket. These extra pockets are super handy and a unique use of space, essentially doubling the external storage capacity. The side bottle pockets are the most easily accessible in the group, too. Since bottles go in vertically, there is no inference with arm swing. Because they sit low on the pack, water bottles can easily be removed and replaced with one hand. 
When you design a product to be lightweight, it's common for performance to suffer in another way. Lightweight packs are often more expensive, less durable, and less supportive. The Flash 55 does a great job of keeping the price low, but the durability and support issues are still true. We would try to avoid rubbing into rocks with this pack, or you may end up with some holes &#40;as we did&#41;. We've seen these packs last 1000s of miles, so durability isn't a huge issue, but don't go dragging it through any boulder fields. We also would have liked to have carried a little more than 30 pounds from time to time, but being able to do so would require a more robust suspension and add to the pack's baseline weight.

Switchback Travel | REI Co-op Flash 55 Backpack Review

REI Flash 55 Review 2020 | Lightweight Backpacking Pack

bazaarvoice

REI Flash 55 Backpack Review

REI Flash 55 Men's Backpack

The Kelty Coyote 65 is super affordable, can comfortably carry heavy loads, and is loaded with useful features. This pack lands at the top of our Best Budget Backpacking Pack review. The suspension on this pack is impressive. It can adjust to different torso lengths so you can dial in the fit. The frame is curved, so it loaded the weight onto our hips nicely. And, the super padded hip belt and wide shoulder straps made this pack one of the most comfortable backpacking packs we ever tested. Also, this pack has loads of external pockets. There are three separate zippered pockets in the front, a pocket on the pack lid, two water bottle side pockets, and two hip belt pockets. With all these pockets it's easy to stay organized and avoid the need for a pack explosion on the side of the trail. You know what we're talking about here. 
But, a pack that handles heavy loads and has lots of pockets is typically also a heavy pack, and the Coyote 65 is no exception here. At 4.3 pounds, this is certainly on the heavier side. Also, the extra zipper pockets above the water bottles make it difficult to use taller water bottles with this pack. But for a comfortable, high-capacity, and durable backpacking pack at such an affordable price, we can live with these minor issues. 
Read the review: Kelty Coyote 65

The Kelty Coyote 65 is super affordable, can comfortably carry heavy loads, and is loaded with useful features. This pack lands at the top of our Best Budget Backpacking Pack review. The suspension on this pack is impressive. It can adjust to different torso lengths so you can dial in the fit. The curved frame loaded the weight onto our hips nicely, and the super padded hip belt and wide shoulder straps made this pack one of the most comfortable backpacking packs we've ever tested. Also, this pack has loads of external pockets. There are three separate zippered pockets in the front, a pocket on the pack lid, two water bottle side pockets, and two hip belt pockets. With all these pockets, it's easy to stay organized and avoid the need for a pack explosion on the side of the trail. You know what we're talking about here. 
But, a pack that handles heavy loads and has lots of pockets is generally heavier by nature, and the Coyote 65 is no exception. At 4.3 pounds, it's certainly not lightweight. Also, the extra zipper pockets above the water bottles make it difficult to use taller water bottles with this pack. But for a comfortable, high-capacity, and durable backpacking pack at such an affordable price, we can live with these minor issues. 
Read more: Kelty Coyote 65 review

The Kelty Coyote 65 earns our top spot in the budget backpacking packs review. It performs just as well as packs that cost twice as much and can comfortably carry heavy loads between 45 and 50 pounds. Using dense foam on the shoulder straps and hip belt, the pack stays supportive all day under a full load. It also features a velcro panel for easy torso height adjustment, which helps get the perfect fit for even more comfort. One of our testers let out an audible "ahhh" when switching back to this pack. Its suspension is that impressive. We also appreciated the upper-side wing pockets on this pack. These extra pockets are like having two extra top lids or your assistant to keep you organized. These pockets are big enough for a Nalgene water bottle during extra-long water carries, but they're the perfect spot for those items you need to keep separate &mdash; toiletries, first aid, headlamp, or battery bank. The wing pockets are detached on the top and bottom, allowing items like fly rods or tent poles to slide through and store securely.
As is the trend, a pack that handles heavy loads is usually heavy, and this pack is no exception. It weighs 4.3 pounds, almost twice as much as some ultralight backpacks. While weight is a downside, its ability to carry larger loads makes this fact minimal in our eyes. Another thing to note is that the side zipper pockets get in the way of tall water bottles when stored in the side stretch pockets. To access the bottle, you need to tilt it forward, which makes it brush against your side. We also did not like the lid's zipper on the side, making the pocket a very narrow, deep space that made gear hard to locate. Kelty claims the reasoning for this is to provide easier access by a hiking partner, but it was also hard to use in this manner.
Read more: Kelty Coyote 65 review

Switchback Travel | Osprey Rook 65 Backpack Review

Kelty Coyote 85 Review 2020 | Kelty Coyote 80 UPDATED | Backpackers

If you often find yourself traveling with heavy outdoor gear, the tapered shape of the REI Ruckpack may be just what you're looking for. The top-to-bottom zipper design allows for easy access and strategic packing, while the tapered shape encourages all heavy gear to stay down at the base. This helps keep the pack from getting top-heavy, creating an uneven weight distribution and causing discomfort or lack of balance. This travel backpack is the perfect airplane-to-trail bag for those trips when you are pressed for time or space. The comfortable harness system is completely stowable for long car trips or when checking your bag, and the easily accessible and organized side pockets are great for your travel essentials.
While we appreciate the side pocket organization, we found that some of the smaller pockets inside this bag are too shallow to feasibly hold anything. The shallow pocket theme extends to the two water bottle pockets on the sides, although these have improved since the last model. Most bottle sizes will fit but are not particularly secure when the bag isn't upright. The harder hip pads take a moment to get used to, so don't be surprised if you feel a little discomfort when you first put the pack on. The discomfort only lasted a few uses and, once broken in, offers ample support. 

REI Ruckpack 40 Travel Pack Review | Pack Hacker

Wirecutter

The Explorer offers many of the same features as the pricier bags we tested—a removable daypack, stowable straps, and a main compartment that opens like a suitcase. So this pack is a great deal if you don’t mind sacrificing some comfort, durability, and warranty support.

walmart

The Osprey Exos 48 combines durability and excellent features at an outstanding price. Its variety of pockets, straps, and attachment points allow for plenty of creativity if tinkering is your thing, yet its classic, user-friendly aesthetic works as-is for those who don't feel the need to modify. The Exos carries loads over 20 pounds with ease and excels when loaded down with over 30. The suspension system is one of the most developed of any pack in this review, and it provides a comfortable carry and impressive ventilation. Not only is it a pack with great value, but it is also an easy introduction to the world of ultralight equipment. 
With a measured weight of two pounds 5.6 ounces, the Exos barely makes the cut as an ultralight pack. Our review has one of the higher weight-to-volume ratios, but it stands apart from most traditional backpacking packs. Its carrying capacity is relatively small &#40;48 liters&#41;, which caters to those with an already trimmed-down kit. We were a little concerned with the long-term durability, as the stretchy side pockets quickly got holes, but we have no other concerns. The Exos is a tried and true favorite and has been around for a while; this means it is widely available online and in stores and is easy to pick up and take out on your next weekend adventure. 

With a measured weight of two pounds 5.6 ounces, the Exos barely makes the cut as an ultralight pack. Our review has one of the higher weight-to-volume ratios, but it stands apart from most of the traditional best backpacking backpacks. Its carrying capacity is relatively small &#40;48 liters&#41;, which caters to those with an already trimmed-down kit. We were a little concerned with the long-term durability, as the stretchy side pockets quickly got holes, but we have no other concerns. The Exos is a tried and true favorite and has been around for a while; this means it is widely available online and in stores and is easy to pick up and take out on your next weekend adventure. 
Read more: Osprey Exos 48 review

Osprey Exos 48 Review | Gear Institute

powerreviews

Osprey Exos 48 Pack | First Look - Outdoors Magic

Osprey Exos 48 Review: Ultralight, but is it Useful Enough?

MUST READ: Osprey Exos 58 REVIEW (2022)

Switchback Travel | Osprey Eja 48 Backpack Review

A number of ultralight packs are designed for thru-hikers and minimalists, but our top pick is the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest. What sets the Southwest apart is its fully Dyneema construction, which offers incredible strength and water resistance at a very low weight. Ounce-counters won’t find a more streamlined yet hardwearing design, and compared to the Zpacks Arc Blast below (another popular UL pack), the thicker body fabric (5.0 oz/sqyd vs. 3.1 oz/sqyd) offers significantly more durability. Tack on a firm foam backpanel and aluminum stays, and the Southwest handles heavy loads with relative ease. For the whole enchilada at just a smidge over 2 pounds, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular UL packs on the trail. And Hyperlite offers a range of other options, with the primary difference being the external pocket fabric—the Windrider, for example, has mesh pockets and is a great choice for those who want to dry gear out on the go.

At 55 liters, the 3400 (for 3400 cubic inches) has the capacity to take on seriously long trips and has become a go-to pack for thru-hikers. In our hands, it has seen duty as an overnight and multi-day backpacking pack as well as a packrafting dry bag. To be clear, the design is undeniably basic, with only the main compartment and a few exterior pockets for organization (notably, the hipbelt pockets are now larger and phone-friendly). And because Dyneema isn’t particularly breathable, the Southwest isn’t our top pick for hot-weather hiking. But it’s still one of the most uncompromised options available, and there’s no denying the trail style you get with that premium Dyneema-white... Read in-depth reviewSee the Hyperlite 3400 Southwest

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 3400 is without a doubt one of the most refined ultralight packs available for a variety of hiking styles, whether you’re thru-hiking the PCT, embarking on a fast-and-light weekend adventure, or off-trail scrambling. Dyneema is the headlining feature here: This burly fabric is known for its incredible strength-to-weight ratio and tear resistance, in addition to being fully waterproof. As a result, the sub-2-pound Southwest 3400 is one of the lightest packs here but also ridiculously hardwearing, which is rare among ultralight packs. Importantly, with removable aluminum stays, a foam backpanel, and wide and supportive hipbelt, it’s also capable of carrying loads up to 40 pounds (many packs below are rated only to 30-35 lbs.).

Hyperlite’s 3400 Southwest is our top pick for dedicated thru-hikers who log a lot of miles with their gear, but it’s a bit overkill for recreational backpackers or those new to the ultralight scene. The first reason is price: At $355 for the white version ($375 for the more durable black version), the 3400 Southwest is almost twice as much as packs like the Crown2 below. In addition, with no lid, organization is very streamlined—this won’t be an issue for serious ULers, but it might be a shock to the system for those switching over from standard backpacking fare. And finally, the Hyperlite’s Dyneema backpanel can get swampy against the back: If you primarily hike in hot climates or tend to run warm, a pack with improved ventilation could be a better choice. But you won’t find a better combination of weight-savings, durability, and carrying comfort, which is what many people are looking for in an ultralight pack. If the Southwest appeals to you, it’s also worth checking out Hyperlite’s other UL packs (the Windrider, Junction, and NorthRim): All four of these designs are nearly identical, with the only distinction being their pocket materials... Read in-depth reviewSee the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest

Backpacking Pack Comparison