We Tested the Best Budget Backpacks of 2023 for Every Budding Outdoorsman

Ian Graber-Stiehl
·13 min read

By definition, a good pack is the most defining piece of backpacking gear. However, picking the optimal one can often be simultaneously oversimplified, overcomplicated, and overpriced. The best budget backpacks need to be comfortable, functional, and suited to your style of hiking.

That's why our best overall winner in this inexpensive pack showdown is Decathlon Forclaz Mt100. I found that it had the best gear access, the easiest adjustment, and highest-quality comfort and ventilation out of all budget backpacks on this list. But to find the best pack for you and your unique needs, it's worth digging a little deeper into our roster of great cheap backpacks.

It's also good to note that, especially to beginning backpackers, the price tag on a well-made pack can seem puzzlingly high. With backpacking, you pay for both weight and the lack of it. Single-pound ultralight packs and heavy-duty pack mules, alike, will set you back a pretty penny. Budget packs settle into the middle ground, but they don’t need to settle on the bells and whistles.

Since it can be tough to suss out a quality pack that has the right fit and features for you, here's your guide to what makes a good pack worthwhile. The following well-tested picks for entry-level packs will get you down the trail with comfort and confidence.

Things to Consider When Buying a Backpacking Pack

Load-Out Weight and Size

Most backpacking packs have a volume between 55 to 70 liters, but not every backpack is meant to carry every weight. Minimalist frames often warp with loads above 30 to 40 pounds, carrying the weight uncomfortably.

Conversely, large and robust frames may not distribute weight properly when under-packed—assuming the extra space doesn’t tempt you to overpack. A good pack is one suited for the load you’re carrying without being overstuffed.

Fit

Three features set the best budget backpacks (and high-end packs) apart:

  1. Hip belt

  2. Frame

  3. Load lifter straps

The frame reinforces a pack’s structure, enabling it to carry the weight of life on the trail. However, 70 to 80 percent of that weight should rest on your hips, instead of your shoulders.

To accomplish that, the pack uses load-lifter straps that should run around 45 degrees from the top of the frame to the shoulder straps. Tightened, these bring the pack toward your body and shift the weight up and off the shoulders to the hip belt.

For this system to work well, a pack needs to be fitted to the user’s torso length and hips. (Here's our advice on how to properly fit a pack.) Most packs will accommodate a range of torsos and hip sizes, but a good pack is one that precisely fits you.

Packing Preferences

Would you rather stash gear in integrated pockets or just line a cavernous main compartment with a waterproof trash bag—and just shove everything inside? Are you, like me, obsessed with compartmentalizing gear into stuff sacks and packing cubes, and being able to grab them through front-access zippers?

A pack should keep the heaviest items in the middle, closest to your body, with lighter items above and below. But within those rules is a lot of room for different packing styles. A good pack is one that complements how you pack.

Hiking Style

Not everyone hikes the same way. Some meander. Some demand easy access to their camera. Some are laser-focused on eating miles, come hell or high water. Some drag their packs through abrasive brush and rocks, while others only ever set them atop a ground tarp. A good pack will be the one that's tailored to the job you ask of it.

Whatever your needs on the trail, I've tested 10 of the best budget backpacks to find the best backpacks of 2023.

Our Testing Process

I hunted for 10 budget backpacks that can be regularly found for under $200. I then tested each pack, hauling three load-outs of 25, 35, and 45 pounds for 10 miles each. I camped overnight with every pack in the Shawnee National Forest, trekked along the riverine cliffs of Illinois' Lowden State Park, and explored several slot canyons in both storm and shine—gauging the backpacks' weatherproofing, construction, comfort, organization, and overall fit, finish, and quality.

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Best Budget Backpacking Packs of 2023

<p>With most packs, you adjust the torso, cinch the waist belt, adjust the shoulder straps, clip the chest strap, and finally adjust the load lifters. Mt100 streamlines this with the easiest torso adjustment system on the market. The Easyfit harness merges the shoulder and torso system together, cinching and sizing the pack with one strap. Ample padding and second-best ventilation make Mt100 one of this lineup’s most comfortable options. Moreover, the top opening, bottom sleeping bag compartment, and a top-or-bottom-opening central zipper give Mt100 best-in-class gear access.</p><p>Some nitpicks to note: The 50- and 70-liter sizes miss the 55- to 65-liter sweet spot of most packs. Mt100 also favors unusually asymmetrical features: one water bottle pocket, one hip belt pocket, and asymmetrical side pockets. However, Mt100’s low-mounted diagonal bottle pocket offers easy hydration access, and attaching an additional hip belt <a href="https://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChcSEwik2bDW0ZyAAxVKx-MHHZbyAZoYABANGgJ5bQ&ei=gdG4ZInhDqKsptQPz9-JwAY&ohost=www.google.com&cid=CAESa-D2u8XbEyUfvFuy9BrmB9mKXQexM7plTxlC7ufaV9M8P0-VxcRWSKXBPHfQxIwFqgtwwZwNo8A_J-3G-TWHsycpWGpVbZvVT5fl2GDycbou4R1vTn4kUV-kZOn9qquUyyRKDbYiWnR1V3a8&sig=AOD64_1wTWJstPSve6hklAHcIKuckgF8CA&ctype=5&q=&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwjJpanW0ZyAAxUilokEHc9vAmgQ9aACKAB6BAgHEA8&adurl=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:pocket;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">pocket</a> is easy. </p><p>Overall, this pack offers the best gear access, the easiest adjustment, and high-quality comfort and ventilation for an unbeatable price.</p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>3.5/4.2 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>50/70 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Extended trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Durable materials with 10-year warranty</p></td><td><p>👎 Smaller capacity </p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Multiple entry points for easy access</p></td><td><p>👎 Unusual asymmetric specs</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Very breathable</p></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$100, <a href="https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&mi=16785&pw=261197&ctc=mensjournal_04-20&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.decathlon.com%2Fproducts%2Fmens-mountain-backpacking-rucksack-50-l-trek-100-easyfit-309807%3Fvariant%3D31629355843646%26gclid%3DCj0KCQjwk96lBhDHARIsAEKO4xb_9cjfsNsaUGb3Ge1sSe2rSMdNmptr4dQ9-XdcivXL8rDghzVOD28aAqdHEALw_wcB%26avad%3D261197_d324d1a35" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:50-liter;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">50-liter</a>, $119 for <a href="https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&mi=16785&pw=261197&ctc=mensjournal_04-20&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.decathlon.com%2Fproducts%2Fmens-mountain-backpacking-rucksack-70-l-trek-100-easyfit-309851%3Fvariant%3D31629355679806%26avad%3D261197_a3250a479" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:70-liter;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">70-liter</a>; <a href="https://www.decathlon.com/collections/backpacking-packs" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:decathalon.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">decathalon.com</a>]<br></p>
<p>REI’s Trailmade collection aims for size inclusivity and approachability. The Trailmade 60-liter pack reflects that push for accessibility. Instructions are printed on the inside lid. It accommodates torsos from 17 to 21 inches and waists from 32 to 58 inches across two different sizes. In our tests, Trailmade offered the most comfortable hip belt and lower back padding. It also easily carried a heavy 50-pound load-out while offering the easiest access to <a href="https://www.mensjournal.com/gear/best-water-bottles-running-working-out-commuting-and-more" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:water bottles;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">water bottles</a>, with its low-mounted, angled water bottle pockets.</p><p>The pronounced back curvature won’t fit everyone and, when wet, it has a tendency to slip a bit. While the water bottle pockets are easy to access, they leave room for mesh side pockets that aren’t there. </p><p>Nevertheless, the spacious compartments and the fact that REI locations will fit you and allow you to test the pack out, all but make this the most comfortable and beginner-friendly pack on the market.</p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>Regular, 3.38 lbs; Extended: 3.69 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>60 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Multi-day trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Comfortable hip belt and back padding</p></td><td><p>👎 Curved back may be uncomfortable for some</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Made with recycled materials</p></td><td><p>👎 No mesh side pockets</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Easy access to water bottles</p></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$149; <a href="https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&mi=10248&pw=261197&ctc=mensjournal_04-20&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F217409%2Frei-co-op-trailmade-60-pack-mens%3Fsku%3D2174090004%26CAWELAID%3D120217890015867943%26CAGPSPN%3Dpla%26CAAGID%3D104890971750%26CATCI%3Dpla-415638184522%26cm_mmc%3DPLA_Google%257C21700000001700551_2174090004%257C92700053575955187%257CTOF%257C71700000066695855%26gclid%3DCj0KCQjwk96lBhDHARIsAEKO4xZRLj5YZOgguZuGvVOukGdAn-j2mA1rZ-aoOnA81o6eN5ZuCnUMS3UaAsjLEALw_wcB%26gclsrc%3Daw.ds" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:rei.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">rei.com</a>]</p>
<p>The Crown2 is a wholly different beast than the above packs. This lightweight, minimalist-style pack weighs less than 2.5 pounds. The Crown2 is for those who have some miles under their belt, keep their pack lighter than 35 pounds, and know how they like to pack. With a relatively short, deep, and wide main compartment, stretch mesh front, massive side pockets, and compression straps galore, the Crown2 offers a multitude of ways to pack gear for easy access.</p><p>The pack does come with a catch. Rather than an adjustable torso, it's sold in three sizes. Being a minimalist-style pack with a fixed torso length, it may not fit everyone comfortably and comes with a trial period to figure out how best to adjust the straps to you. </p><p>However, for those who comfortably fit it (we advise newer hikers to take it to an REI or other backpacking store for help adjusting the pack), it easily offers the lightest weight and most well-thought-out gear storage of any pack in this lineup.</p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>Short, 2.26 lbs; Regular, 2.36 lbs; Long, 2.48 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>60 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Multi-day trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Very lightweight</p></td><td><p>👎 Fixed sizes may not fit all </p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Clever gear storage options</p></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$136; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Granite-Gear-Crown2-60-Regular-Moonmist/dp/B09Z37MHNK?&linkCode=ll1&tag=mensjournal_04-20&linkId=71d2488ced8c2b8d1632db4016b345b9&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:amazon.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">amazon.com</a>]</p>
<p>On the other end of the spectrum is Stout 60, which features Gregory’s usual trademarks: quality back ventilation, a supportive hip belt, and a relatively robust frame. In our tests, Gregory was the most adjustable pack, with a 16- to 21-inch torso range, and a hip belt that easily adjusted from 27 to 53 inches.</p><p>The pack’s side mesh pockets are slightly small, and it has no bottom rain cover pocket, forcing you to store it in the lid. Small demerits aside, Stout ranked among the top three in most categories: hip belt support, back ventilation, external storage, max carry weight (50 pounds), construction quality, harness comfort, hydration access, and weight distribution. Simply put, it's this lineup’s jack-of-all-trades.</p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>3.56 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>60 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Extended trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Strong frame</p></td><td><p>👎 No dedicated rain cover pocket</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 High load rate</p></td><td><p>👎 Side pockets on the small side</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Good back ventilation</p></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$190; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Gregory-Mountain-Products-Backpack-FENNEL/dp/B07X9VZD3M?crid=17M0NVIXHV4Q0&keywords=gregory%2Bstout%2B60&qid=1690481259&sprefix=gregory%2Bst%2Caps%2C81&sr=8-2&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=arena-swimsuit-lifestyle-xandra-dorm-ananya-20&linkId=fbdaa4e55a554058d2bba710f45188fc&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:amazon.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">amazon.com</a>]</p>
<p>The rugged Kelty Asher, made from 600-denier polyester, is built strong, minimalist, and reliable. No compression strap doesn't feel like a hindrance. It has a spacious main compartment and two large side pockets that can each stow two one-liter bottles. The shoulder straps and waist belt are easily adjusted and balanced between flexibility and reinforcement. The enclosed front pocket won’t quickly dry out a wet jacket, but it’s more spacious and protective than those mesh front pockets on most packs. </p><p>Asher needs a few additions, as it’s one of only two packs with no hip belt pockets. It doesn't come with a rain cover or a compartment for one, and has no holders for <a href="https://www.mensjournal.com/gear/trekking-poles" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:trekking poles;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">trekking poles</a>, fishing rods, and the like. However, the front’s daisy chain offers space to affix shock cords or gear loops, and the large lid will easily accommodate a rain cover and extra gear. A wide variety of hip belt pockets should nicely fit this pack. </p><p>For those who want a simple, rugged pack, with room for modifications, Kelty is the way to go.</p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>3.5 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>65 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Multi-day trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Simple and durable</p></td><td><p>👎 No rain cover or storage pocket</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Large front mesh pocket</p></td><td><p>👎 No hip belt pockets </p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Easily adjustable shoulder straps and waist belt</p></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$170; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Asher-Beluga-Stormy-Blue/dp/B096SZ6FGG?crid=17M0NVIXHV4Q0&keywords=gregory+stout+60&qid=1690481366&sprefix=gregory+st%2Caps%2C81&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=arena-swimsuit-lifestyle-xandra-dorm-ananya-20&linkId=01e73eb1a2dd4d0218f08b452059ea9a&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:amazon.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">amazon.com</a>]<br></p>
<p>The Explorer 4000 is an OG. Over the past decade, it's been one of the hiking community's go-to recommendations for a first budget backpack. Simple, heavy-duty, and backed by a quality lifetime warranty, the pack’s 19- to 23-inch range favors longer torsos. The mesh front and side pockets are rather tiny, and the small-ish side pockets also favor those who like to compartmentalize—though, being flow-through on one side, they allow for secure storage of trekking poles, axes, fishing poles, etc.</p><p>An old-school pack built to withstand hard use, Explorer 4000 has no listed max carrying capacity. If you can fit it, this pack can carry it. If you can’t, it has ample options for strapping gear externally.</p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>5 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>65 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Extended trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Lifetime warranty</p></td><td><p>👎 Small outside pockets </p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Durable and simple</p></td><td><p>👎 Smaller capacity </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$85; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TETON-Sports-Explorer4000-Black-32/dp/B084765FD3?crid=1MU42GSM4RALS&keywords=teton+explorer+4000+backpack&qid=1690481455&sprefix=teton+ex%2Caps%2C80&sr=8-6&linkCode=ll1&tag=arena-swimsuit-lifestyle-xandra-dorm-ananya-20&linkId=067b1a56ac412870c14e6d0ebacf1e4e&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:amazon.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">amazon.com</a>]</p>
<p>Sporting the only lofted mesh back panel, a feature typically only found in mid-priced or high-end packs, Baja 60 offers the best ventilation of any pack in this lineup. But it comes at a cost: The curved frame of the pack limits the useful storage space in the main compartment. The pack also features the smallest side mesh pockets and hip belt pockets of any pack here.</p><p>However, it does offer one of the most comfortable hip belts in the lineup, strategic padding to avoid hot spots, and adjustable anchor points for the load lifters to dial in the pack’s fit and weight distribution. </p><p>Treat Baja like a 50-liter pack instead, and it offers a precision fit for a weekend load-out, with a front zipper for easy gear access and daisy chains for external storage.</p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>3.81 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>60 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Multi-day trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Comfortable and breathable mesh suspension panel </p></td><td><p>👎 Small side and hip belt pockets </p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Smartly padded hip belt</p></td><td><p>👎 Main compartment not very roomy </p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Easy to dial in a precision fit</p></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$200; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Internal-Frame-Backpack/dp/B07L9TWHHM?crid=3DBS1CPACIUNP&keywords=alps+mountaineering+baja+60+pack&qid=1690481542&sprefix=alps+baja%2Caps%2C82&sr=8-2&linkCode=ll1&tag=arena-swimsuit-lifestyle-xandra-dorm-ananya-20&linkId=1b2f34241ddee584cd6f3832e64aa3b9&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:amazon.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">amazon.com</a>]</p>
<p>The smallest pack on our list, this 2.75-pound, 55-liter pack offers lightweight sensibility and a 45-pound carrying capacity, with travel pack polish. Its tall, narrow main compartment limits gear arrangement. Additionally, while the rigid shoulder straps are well-padded, the fixed torso length and minimalist harness offer good if not great comfort under heavier loads.</p><p>Nevertheless, between a roll-top opening, a full frontal panel zipper, dual front storage pockets, external gear loops, massive hip belt pockets, and two large side mesh pockets with two liters of space apiece, Scream features fantastic gear accessibility and compartmentalization. </p><p>If you keep overnight and weekend packs light and organized, Scream 55 is a comfortable, minimalist carry.</p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>3.75 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>55 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Overnight trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Lightweight </p></td><td><p>👎 Smaller capacity </p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Comfortable shoulder straps</p></td><td><p>👎 Narrow main compartment </p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Great gear accessibility</p></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$160; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mountainsmith-Scream-Backpack-Phantom-Liter/dp/B09RGB29PD?crid=26QCNCEH9HG3S&keywords=mountainsmith+scream+55&qid=1690481615&sprefix=scream+moun%2Caps%2C89&sr=8-2&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.f5122f16-c3e8-4386-bf32-63e904010ad0&linkCode=ll1&tag=arena-swimsuit-lifestyle-xandra-dorm-ananya-20&linkId=e0631334cb130f55f976f145052e7db3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:amazon.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">amazon.com</a>]</p>
<p>The Inca Extreme 65 compromises main compartment space for integrated pockets elsewhere and a compact profile. With two tall side zipper pockets, large side mesh pockets, a lid with two layered pockets, dual trekking pole loops, a front zipper opening to the main compartment, and compression straps galore, Inca is a pack for those who enjoy options for segregating and attaching gear.</p><p>The pack’s shoulder straps aren’t the comfiest and the design can feel cluttered with straps. Even so, it’s easy to shape the frame’s aluminum stays to fit your back. Between a well-padded hip belt with extra adjustment straps and a comfortable back panel, Inca can compartmentalize and carry a moderate load-out quite well.</p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>4.3 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>65 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Extended trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Lots of gear storage options</p></td><td><p>👎 Shoulder straps not padded enough</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Aluminum frame easily bent to fit</p></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Adjustment straps galore</p></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$126; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mountain-Warehouse-Extreme-litres-Rucksack/dp/B07MJHW2YN?crid=1GDZI09QZTRR6&keywords=inca+mountain+warehouse+backpack&qid=1690481719&sprefix=inca+mountain+warehouse+backpack%2Caps%2C68&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=arena-swimsuit-lifestyle-xandra-dorm-ananya-20&linkId=8f647457a4a00da02fb6204cea07a7b5&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:amazon.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">amazon.com</a>]</p>
<p>Sirac 65’s cavernous main compartment favors a shove-it-all-in packing style. The pack opts for shock cord webbing in the front, instead of a mesh or zippered pocket. While less secure, the shock webbing is ideal for drying out wet clothes and gear while trekking. Likewise, with dual gear holders and massive mesh pockets with side access prioritizes access to water and trekking poles.</p><p>The pack is pretty noisy (even after 10 miles, the frame still lightly squeaks) and its wide, thin hip belt wasn’t the most comfortable. But for hikers who prioritize easy hydration access, a massive central compartment that can be easily waterproofed with a liner, and the ability to quickly dry out gear, Sirac is a strong, simple, wet-weather contender. </p><ul><li><strong>Weight: </strong>4.25 lbs</li><li><strong>Capacity: </strong>65 liters</li><li><strong>Best use: </strong>Extended trip</li></ul><div><table><thead><tr><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p>👍 Large main compartment</p></td><td><p>👎 No front mesh pocket</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>👍 Easy hydration access</p></td><td><p>👎 Squeaky frame</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p>[$165; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lowe-Alpine-Multi-Day-Hiking-Backpack/dp/B09QL72HPD?crid=YAUU7XM7OKEP&keywords=lowe+alpine+sirac+65&qid=1690481811&sprefix=lowe+alpine+sirac+65%2Caps%2C62&sr=8-1&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.f5122f16-c3e8-4386-bf32-63e904010ad0&linkCode=ll1&tag=arena-swimsuit-lifestyle-xandra-dorm-ananya-20&linkId=4b1941b645721840490c7fcbd72323a8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:amazon.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">amazon.com</a>]<br></p>