I Tested 9 Backpacks at Every Price in 2024

[@mattman_outside]

I have two Naturehike tents, a Naturehike cot I'll use on car camping trips, and a Naturehike backpacking chair and have no complaints about any of them.

[@Sulucion6Tone]

Yea, im a fan of Naturehike - have 3 of their tents, the cot, sleeping bags, backpack.. etc... no complaints, solid stuff.

[@DrJRxALMIGHTY]

I love the nature hike chair it's 50 bucks and about 1 lb. 1/3 of the price as the nemo and a few ounces heavier. Heck yea

[@cbgny23]

Agreed, 100% with manufacturers identifying the actual internal capacity of a pack vs. the internal + external pouches. Especially in winter, some users don't necessarily use mesh pouches as they fill with snow or they could sustain damage from shaper alpine / winter tools.

[@dj46104]

ULA is one of the worst offenders. The ULA Circuit is advertised as a 68L bag and the main body is 40L. ULA Dragonfly 30 has only 22L of internal capacity.

[@TheSubieFan]

I would highly recommend hyperlite 75 or 50 ice pack or the blue ice stache 90. If your looking for smaller packs the alpine hauler is good.

[@TheSubieFan]

I would highly recommend hyperlite 75 or 50 ice pack or the blue ice stache 90. If your looking for smaller packs the alpine hauler is good.

[@amraa23]

I bought Kakwa 55 in ultragrid version and took it to Everest 3 passes trek. My size was in between M and L and decided to buy L which was the right choice. Because it was really comfy no hotspot at all. I like the fact that when reasonably loaded I can carry it on international flight.

[@rearct]

It's a very niche need, but I appreciate adjustable torso length backpacks because i have scoliosis and need to put one shoulder strap higher than the other. Thanks for going on this long mission of testing budget gear and telling us about it!

[@IronmanV5]

"Not that I have any experience wearing sports bras" 🤣

[@adventure_hannah3841]

I'd love to see your thoughts on Granite Gear packs! (Blaze or Crown series) It's lightweight, comfortable, has hip pockets that actually hold stuff, and a detachable brain for a daypack or first aid bag. I've loved my Crown 2 38L for the handful of weekend trips I go on each year. Not ultralight, not beefy enough for heavy loads, but in my opinion, perfect for a minimalist with "traditional" gear, or a kleptomaniac ultralighter 😅

[@PapaBoiOutdoors]

Great video! Nice to see reviews on packs that were actually used in the field. I love the Kakwa 40. I know it is a little small; however, I use it for through hiking and I like the lighter weight for the cost. I actually use the OV Shadowlight for my winter camping since it has more volume and can carry 35+ pounds of gear.

[@eric_hanson]

The Kakwa and Shadowlight make for a very nice duo!

[@stevewright2241]

I’d like to hear your complete list of backpacks that you have used over the years. Favorite to least favorite.

[@sherrierifenberg2199]

So many choices for so many different situations and hikers! I appreciate your sorting out all the details for us! TY!

[@rockjays7926]

During the Covid era, I took a chance on what was available at Garage Grown Gear with a cottage company I'd never heard of before, a YarGear Mountain Drifter 38 L backpack. I was surprised when the thing arrived, neatly folded and slipped into a manilla envelope that could fit inside my mailbox. The pack has been great and thus began my journey into ultralight.

[@j3hikes444]

for hiking in the desert I go with LiteAF curve 46 full suspension, when long water carries are not an issue I go with Zpacks Super Nero with vest harness.

[@mflacke]

Great info thanks. I'm shopping a few of these right now! I have to say when you are considering the weight of a pack, the most important feature is how it fits your particular body. Number two it how well it carries a load. These two features can add weight. But the big factor is there is a difference between carrying two items that add 3 pounds of weight and a backpack that weighs 3 pounds more; when the weight is spread out across the entire pack and in a lot of cases on the part of the pack interfacing with your body (which is like a person being 3 pounds heavier = not a noticeable difference). It's almost impossible to test because of the variance in designs between companies. My point being don't get hung up on pack weight. Try and test hopefully with a retailer or company that has a great return reputation.

[@musingwithreba9667]

I have a Kakwa 55, and I'll stick with it until it falls apart. 😊 It's designed by a Canadian and is now sold on a Canadian website (Gear Trade), so no tariffs, in case any Canadians were thinking of getting one. 🇨🇦 That last Mystery Ranch pack is a monster! Holy jeepers. I guess it would be good for winter expeditions or something that you have to haul some monster sized gear.

[@eric_hanson]

That's great you can get Durston without the pain of US prices. It helps that they're a great company!

[@penpalhashobbies]

"It's...a tube." A really nice tube, indeed! Thanks for the detailed breakdown, Eric. Still considering the Kakwa 55. I have to say I love my OV Shadowlight 45 and I find the split mesh really works for the way I pack. The overall pocket configuration is the dream for me. I wish more packs had upper side pockets! I don't use the zipper, but I can also see why some people like it.

[@brianb5397]

Love your sense of humor. Great reviews. Appreciate everything you do!!

[@Truth-Seeker75]

I think what’s missing here is the right tool for the job. UL packs are meant to carry UL loads. Trying to stuff an Arc Haul with 40+ pounds might be do-able, but it’s not what it is made for and it likely won’t last being overworked. That said, there is also the reality that other lesser known budget packs are plenty fine for most weekend warriors.

[@davidskinner570]

Nature Hike makes great pair of budget down pants also, might give that pack a go.

[@MaliceFox]

I have that same nature hike backpack, and it never dawned on me that those side buckles were meant for the top. i used them like compression straps for the main body haha. Using them for the top makes much more sense!

[@gregwojan1773]

I'm surprised you didn't address the current status of Mystery Ranch since being acquired by YETI. 😞

[@eric_hanson]

I have addressed what I know in other videos recently. But as far as I can tell it's just rumors at the moment and we don't really have an official word on what Yeti is doing.

[@GenX_outdoors]

I went with buy once cry once philosophy when I sprung for the Zpacks women’s Arc Haul 60 and have no regrets. So incredibly comfortable and durable. Love it so much. I have about 25 nights backpacking with it now and it is phenomenal. Highly recommend if you can afford it. I also think the backpack is something that’s well worth spending money on since it can make or break a hiking trip.

[@gman963]

Mystery Ranch Bridger is the most comfortable pack I've ever used. It's my go-to for anything longer than a weekend trip. The front vest distributes weight very evenly and take a lot of stress off my shoulders. The hip belt is sort of segmented so my hips can move freely and never feel strained. I wouldn't mind seeing more light-weight packs mimic the technology.

[@YTusercomment]

I also own the Mystery Ranch Bridger 65-L....one of five different MR packs I own. Agree...all of them are the finest backpacks I've had.

[@backpackquaker8165]

I bought the naturehike for just 80€. Using it without the hip belt, it's just 1kg without it. Loving it.

[@crsaxophones]

I just picked up the Shadowlight 60 this weekend. I’m stoked to try it out. So far, it holds all my gear and seems like a quality item. Thanks for the recommendation.

[@Hondo79]

I really enjoyed the comprehensive backpacking reviews, and tryouts over this year. I think it was very thorough and has given people a lot of better information then they had before. keep up the good work. I enjoy all of your vids when you drop them.🎉😂😂

[@royalbrooks7163]

I have spinal cord damage that causes me a lot of pain especially when carrying weight and have tested and sent back many packs. Until I took the hit and got in contact with Seek Outside and received the Gila 3500 pack with all the bells and whistles it had to offer. I'm able to happily hike and enjoy the trips I take now but man they are expensive.

[@jamesblake8245]

My go-to pack is the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60. I would love to get your take on it

[@MQuinn-eb3zz]

I will go out on a limb and say that I love tactical backpacks. I love the ability to customize one's load capacity and organization by adding on different size MOLLE pouches. I love the ability to carry a heavier load when necessary and rugged materials that are virtually bombproof. I use a 5.11 rush 100 (it is a 60 liter bag).

[@dougmiller4567]

Great video, I love that you are exoring more affordable and lighter equipment. Also I love the hair cut... I'd ask you to check out my cheap ultralight summer pack. It's the Aonijie 30 L for $75. I used it last summer for 44 miles across Migrant Wilderness and it surprisingly fits a BV 500 inside the pack. My summer base weight is under 8 lbs so you need your kit dialed in. I think you'll love the pack, basically a smaller lighter mountainsmith zerk 40.. 16.76 ounces.. I did cut the zipper pocket out, and I replaced the support foam with a sit pad.

[@eric_hanson]

Nice! That looks like a cool pack for minimalist adventures.

[@dougmiller4567]

I can fit my full Hammock set up with tarp which for me is so much more comfy than any ground based shelter, but I know hammocks divide the backpacking community more than ultralight gear does. ​@@eric_hanson

[@chrismoore600]

I'm a weekend warrior so l lean more toward the cheaper packs. I've been backpacking for 45 years so I've been through a lot of packs. Last year I started lightweight backpacking and have stepped into lighter and more expensive packs. Outstanding review and I agree with your choices.

[@Tokoroegao]

My whole starter set-up consists of Naturehike stuff. They make solid equipment - kind of in the realm of what you can get from Decathlon. I own the Naturehike Cloud up 1 tent, one of their higher end sleeping pads and a down sleeping bag (CW400). I wouldn't buy the sleeping bag again due to ethical concerns, but other than that, all this stuff works splendidly.

[@praetoria_]

The mystery ranch is definitely in line to be my next pack. Just love the ergonomics of it.

[@nicolemalinowski5960]

I love my shadowlight! I’ve taken it on multiple 3-4 day hikes. It holds all my gear well, comfortable, durable and I’ve gotten compliments on it.

[@stuartvrieze9384]

My ultralight go-to is the super comfortable MountainSmith Zerk 40, If I need a little more space I use a Granite Gear Crown 2 60, and for bigger heavier loads I use a Mountain Hardwear PCT 70. Love the trio and covers all my needs.

[@arthurvino]

Zero is nice, but it's 2lb and frameless. You can get a nice framed pack like kakwa40 for the same weight.

[@tippin.turtle]

Have two of the packs in this video (NatureHike/MysteryRanch) and was not fully satisfied with either. However, both of these packs led me to a greater appreciation for REI's FLASH 55 L; which is something in the middle of the two.👍

[@tomatoomelette5111]

I have a Mystery Ranch Bridger 35L and a Terraframe 65L, and I just ordered a Packs Arc Haul 70L to replace the Terraframe...I'll be saving 4 pounds in just my backpack! Thanks to Eric for introducing me to Mystery Ranch. I will probably upgrade the yoke on the Arc Haul to the running vest style, but I'll give the s-straps a go first and see how it carries my gear.

[@davidcooper8390]

Such a wide range of packs you were able to try and give real trail experiences on. Great comparison video. I have a feeling my next pack will either be a REI Flash 55 or MR Radix 57.

[@jeppej4265]

Interesting video. I have Fjälreven 65L bakcpack which is over 3kg without anything inside. However it's the comfiest back I've ever used and can take anything you throw at it. Not ultra light in any measure but worth a look if you want a quality product.

[@iainwright-turner6210]

One of the best packs I've owned is now my favorite, the atom packs mo, ultralight, high end materials, but the way it carries a heavy load and the accessibility to water pockets and snacks is amazing its my go too for any longer trip or heavy carry now, I definitely recommend checking that one out, it's also made in Scotland so can stand up to whether well

[@mattjosh69]

Thank you for this I’ve been looking at the Zpacks and Durston to do the AT next your and was just about to pull the trigger on the Zpacks 50L thinking most people seem to be using 50L. Now I have to rethink it so thank you.🇬🇧🙏🏻

[@johnhelmuth9718]

Nice review! Since most of my trips are in the sierra, I lug along a bear canister. Many ultralight packs dont have enough space inside (or it will bulge up against my back). Met many PCTers who just deel w/ it for that 200 mile stretch by carrying it on top on their pack empty while actively hiking (stow food in in at camp). Well, I dont want to do all that shuffling around over a 5 day loop trip. Generally, most ultralight packs are not comfy unless you are hauling an ultralight load. The zpack arc haul looks promising, but $$$. When i can hang food, i definitely cpuld consider an ultralight pack that can carry a 25 pound load. After moving away from water bladders, i prefer packs where i can get my water bottle out of the side pocket while on the move. Cant do that with deep side pockets and im not a fan of that chest strap. My current go to is an osprey talon 44. It's a mini traditional pack. I can load it up to 30 pounds, which includes rod/real, chair, and some booze. For winter trips, i need my 70 liter aether! It still carries 45 pounds like a dream, but getting old.

[@crstarkey]

Thanks for this content. I have an Atmos 65 and it's great. I'm looking for a lighter pack and you've given some solid options at good price points; thank you. For me, hard to buy a pack without trying it on. My Atmos fits me much better than Gregory and the Aether. Surprisingly, Deuter fits well overall. Keep it up.

[@cvkealey]

I'm curious as to why nothing from Granite Gear was included here. In my experience, they're one of the best bang-for-buck options out there and have some fairly innovative features (like the re-fit belt system and the newer Virga's strap adjustment options).

[@michaelheintz5726]

I've been a big fan of my Granite Gear Blaze 60. For the weight it carrying a good load comfortably.

[@eric_hanson]

I love that. I haven't used much Granite Gear at all. I need to change that!

[@adventure_hannah3841]

​@eric_hanson Yes, please more Granite Gear! I love my Granite Gear Crown 2, 38L. I have a lot of MYOG gear and a very minimal kit list, for a handful of weekend trips a year.

[@stuartb9194]

Love my Granite Gear Crown 60. Good value, light and comfortable

[@jukkavv]

Lundhags Padje light 60L .. Excellent fabrics, big sides pockets, mesh pocket, rolltop, really comfy to carry and weights only 1,1 kg 😊👍🏻

[@medimalismus]

There is a company called Bonfus - they released the Aeros 55L UL Backpack with Osprey-like mesh backpanel. At ~800 grams and 350€ price I wouldn't buy a Zpacks tbh. I like Zpacks, but they put a 100% premium on their prices

[@CraigReadings]

Thank you i actually just checked out that shadow pack, I hadn’t heard of that company

[@vol84eng]

I love my Superior Mountain Designs Big Wild 70L pack. Made from Ultra 400 and weighs 2.3 pounds. I normally carry 35 pounds very comfortably with this pack. And they are made in Michigan. They are on the higher end of the price range though.

[@SlimJimJones]

Durston Kakwa 55 is the bomb 💣 had an Osprey Aether 65… 3 lbs 7 oz heavier and not as comfortable!

[@Kyfried]

I just scored a brand new Ula pack for 100 bucks on marketplace. Haha heck yes been wanting a UL pack but wasn't or couldn't spend 300. Thank you Girl on FB again. 😊

[@fresh12121212]

How about Decathlon MT100 Easyfit? Lots of good reviews, great price too.

[@SurvivalGal]

I've said it before and I'll say it again (and I'll probably have to KEEP saying it), "The only time you need extremely expensive gear is in extreme places!" Conversely, the more forgiving the conditions (terrain and weather) the more cheaper gear is okay. It so happens that not only have I had more pricey backpacks over the years, but I'm currently on my THIRD Teton Sports Scout, 3400 pack! But I get them if I've worn other packs out AND summer is here AND I don't have any bigger outings planned. Yes, on the cheaper side, but I like the outside pockets! It's good enough for general outings. On the other hand, I'm moving into my Mystery Ranch Bridger 65L. Much more expensive BUT far better made than Teton (which often has quality control issues). I'm planning a number of bigger, harder outings so I want a better pack. I almost always carry a heavy load, but then MY outings are almost always THREE WEEKS LONG! (no refit or resupply!!) That means lots more food, clothing to address changing weather, and some climbing gear. The Teton Scout AND the Mystery Ranch are both good packs, and while my kind of outings call for DEPENDABLE gear, the Teton is good (for most), but the Mystery Ranch is GREAT (and you pay for it).

[@mikekraut7643]

You don’t NEED to go backpacking at all, it’s all a luxury

[@SurvivalGal]

@mikekraut7643 AH! You're PARTLY right. Technically speaking, everything in your pack (and the pack itself) is ALL about "creature comfort". It's ALL designed and manufactured with some level of dependability, safety, comfort, etc., in mind. So WHY have any of it? In fact, why even get out in the wilderness (morever, extreme wilderness?) Because, at our core, we are explorers, adventurers (granted, some more than others). So it's unreasonable to ask people to NOT risk their lives and stay at home in front of TV (or YT). But it IS reasonable to ask them to take REASONABLE risk, and that's where good gear comes in. Good gear makes wilderness areas accessible. Especially for those with few or no skills. As the saying goes, "The more you know, the less you carry." And it's true! As a survivalist, I have always conducted MY survival challenges completely geared up. However, that doesn't mean I USED all that gear, I would randomly choose which pieces of gear to not use (the idea is to DO without, NOT GO without). So, do you "NEED" to go backpacking? Depends on who you ask 😁

[@Mario-cr1ik]

I picked up the Naturehike 60 (in the "new improved version") on black friday for €76 (77,8 USD) on amazon. So far I have only used it for travelling, but I like it thus far. Hard to beat that price (was cheaper than aliexpress)

[@ZuellenFuentesfuentes]

Backpack kislux - also works for Compare - I can't find any difference and still use it for the gym

[@Samoan_Stig]

Hey, in march of 2025 I'm going to be hiking Havasupai. Outside the big three what are some gear you recommend? Should I get a set of hiking poles? If so which ones?

[@rungavagairun]

I think it's worth mentioning about the Zpacks backpacks, the $400 only covers the basic pack. If you want shoulder strap accessories, hip belt or fanny pack attachments, or any other items, you're going to be spending a total of $5-600 easily. The upside is that it is a highly customizable pack. The downside is that it's going to cost an arm and a leg. I say this as an Archaul user. I just upgraded the top strap from a single buckle strap to a v-strap, and I downsized the hip belt because I'm skinnier than I thought I was.

[@eric_hanson]

It's true, I didn't even mention that this pack was the most basic version. I love the pack but I think it's silly that hip belt pockets are an extra $32.

[@TheBabadush]

I haven’t seen anything mentioned about the fact it is Ultra 100 and Ultra 200, not 1000 or 2000. This is a very informative video there’s a lot of great stuff out there.

[@SmokeytheJeep]

If you had to choose between the Kakwa 55 and the Shadowlight for all but the shortest/smallest trips (got a 40L for those), which would be your choice, and why? I’m leaning Kakwa, but the OV offers larger capacity and a lower price …

[@eric_hanson]

If you're asking straight up which pack I prefer, I'd lean Kakwa 55.

[@SmokeytheJeep]

@ That’s exactly my question, and what I would’ve assumed. Thanks! You seemed to second guess the Durston pack just a bit, hence my asking.

[@elisaadams2292]

I am 100% with you regarding the OVCS40 but I wish it were a OV CS60

[@mateobeans3787]

Atoms Pack “Atoms +” is what I use and love it!

[@RickMunday]

I just wanted to throw out another brand that seems like it's overlooked. Zimmerbuilt. My first exposure to the brand was with a fishing pack, but after realizing how well thought out the pack design and build was, I decided to get a hiking pack from him with some fishing modifications. And then it took off from there. Well built with all of the same materials that the bigger guys use priced appropriately.

[@eric_hanson]

interesting. Thanks for pointing Zimmerbuilt out to me. I'm intrigued!

[@RickMunday]

@eric_hanson Chris Zimmer is a great guy and readily works with you for customization. I actually had a chance to meet him after I bought one of his packs years ago.

[@DrJRxALMIGHTY]

Nature hike chair is amazing for the price and weight

[@SeanGilchrist]

Used the Gen 1 High Sierra Pathway bags for years, now I like the Flex Capacitor.

[@anthonyrstrawbridge]

🐈 Emily has these little shake vibrate toys that activate when she bumps them😂

[@seasoned-pastronaut]

Would you be able to help me with the length of the Naturehike 60L on the back? It looks just like what I need, except there's no adjustability and I'm quite short - 47cm back when I got it measured. Do you think would work for me?

[@camping_guru_uk]

I'm 5:8" and it fits me great, I'd say anyone around 5'6" to 6' should be ok. It's only good enough for up to 11kg from my experience

[@olligetdichnixan3820]

the backpack is more for people with a longer to long torso 47 CM torso length is a normal average the backpack could fit but could be a little tight

[@joshgonzalez9301]

What hike was it that you took the Durston Kakwa on?

[@Mandy3181]

Question about the Teton sports. What is the longest torso measurement? I like some of the products, but without being able to try it on, I am hesitant about buying it. I apparently have a long torso, 21 to 22 inches.

[@MonkmanTreks]

Eric: great breakdown and info. Question: have you used, or have an opinion of the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60L?

[@eric_hanson]

I haven't used any of Gossamer Gear's packs, so I can't really say much. Sorry!

[@layne4376]

The brilliance of the Radix is that the micro adjustments are unparalleled.

[@YTusercomment]

I purchased the RADIX 47-L and really like it.

[@CombatBanana]

I think every brand should list the total capacity because outer pockets count. Only listing the inner would incentivise brands to not include out pockets on the belt or shoulder straps.

[@alexlewis9846]

I own the NatureHike pack and it’s pretty good! Especially for the price

[@richardbendrin5410]

After I had tried a not really much cheaper backpack from Atompacks, I immediately bought a ZPacks and have never regretted the purchase since then, although it is much more expensive in Germany. For me the best backpack there is and worth every penny.

[@AsheeBree]

Would u ever do a cheaper guided trip through the Uintas. From someone in Salt Lake that has half the gear but too chicken to just wing it 😊

[@jamescrews3516]

NatureHike does have alot of good gear got a couple bomber tents

[@eric_hanson]

I have tried one of their tents but wasn't particularly impressed. But I think I just need to try more of their stuff.

[@wolfeadventures]

Is the Ultra material still delaminating after a short time? My DCF Arc Blast is holding up fine after 4 years.

[@MisSarahMae444]

Thank you, Eric! 🙌🏼💖☀️🌲🌈

[@robertuffman3041]

i bought a teton sport explorer i think it is 75l. i used it 2 times last year and i'm not sure i'm a fan. i had been using a Osprey Atmos 65 i bought used for 100.00 for 2 years but the chest buckle broke and jthe grab handle broke the mess on the front tore. i tried to contact Osprey about fixing it but no luck.

[@Almedius76]

I love my flash 55, but I have some friends in the market for their first packs. (this helps)

[@L4mTr4n]

I thought the CS40 is ultra 200 and Zpacks is ultra 100? I don’t know where the ultra 1000 came from. Also, really appreciate the review on the NatureHike backpack as I didn’t know they made backpacks. I’m definitely picking up the 45L version as a backup in case any of my friends wants to borrow to try out backpacking.

[@BucksMom218]

What brands are good to buy on marketplace? I got a 55 litre womens Osprey that was used 2xs, along with inflatable sleeping pads and trekking poles for $35. I have an osprey daypack so I was familiar with the co….but marketplace has so much gear for sale at a fraction of the cost. Thanks for sharing this info Eric. Its so helpful…❤️🥾🥾⛺️🥶

[@eric_hanson]

Whoa that's a score! Yeah Marketplace, and other used, local options are great ways to get quality gear at low prices.

[@Pasequale100]

Thanks a lot Eric for that great video and also your critical comments concerning the inner volume of the packs. So the Zpacks Haul 57 liter volume (70l maximum) is in the end still 2 liters bigger than the the Kakwa 55 right?

[@eric_hanson]

The Kakwa 55 is measured to contain 54 liters in the size medium and 57 in size large. So yes, they are almost exactly the same. However anecdotally I've noticed it just "feels" easier to fit more into the Zpacks Archaul than the Durston Kakwa. I haven't done my own volume testing to see what the differences really are. But this is where I find it all confusing (and sometimes misleading) how companies claim certain capacities.

[@Pasequale100]

@ Thank you so much for your efforts and great work :) I have just seen on the Durston website for the Kakwa 55 medium the following: total volume 61L (internal 46L + external 15L ). So the Arc Haul is with a total of 70L (internal 57L + external 13L as you thankfully mentioned) 9 L taller :) Which fits your feeling

[@ryan92084]

​@@Pasequale100 the durston capacity specs are a bit conservative. Mylifeoutdoors managed to get 55 liters of water in theirs and still roll the top. Eric is also testing last year's model with a bit smaller pockets.

[@Alex-12381]

Check out Hill People Gear packs. They aren’t very light, but they’re designed to prioritize comfort and durability which makes them feel lighter than they are

[@colindancey1381]

Hi, Eric! As someone that also carries around camera gear, would an ultralight backpack such as the duration be a viable option? I currently have the bridger 55L and last weekend took a 45lbs load with ease, I'm still wanting to shed weight.. Should a UL backpack be considered for a light camera trip? (maybe one extra lens, no tripod) Thanks!

[@matthewstranaghan]

I don't see why it wouldn't work. I use a HMG Unbound 40 and carry a camera body and 2 lenses. Usually I have my full frame (mirrorless) with wide angle on my backpack strap and my 70-200 in a water bottle pocket for easy access. For reference my pack weight with water is usually 22 - 30 lbs depending on the hike.

[@vamon4838]

Hey, u gotta try some decathlon stuff, for example their mt100 backpack

[@HunterJE]

I can't compare having not hiked with anything else modern since getting back in to backpacking last year (and was using a series of borrowed and handed-down ancient-even-then external frame packs when I was doing it last before then) but have been using an MT100 50L and it's suited me quite well so far!

[@vamon4838]

@ yeah I got the same bag but haven’t had a chance to use it yet, can it fit your stuff well? Cause it’s 50L..

[@HunterJE]

@@vamon4838 It was a tight fit but doable when I started with a mix of backpacking and car camping gear, as I gradually replace items going towards all backpacking gear it definitely feels sufficient even with a little bit of photo gear and a bear cannister. Does lack a bit in outside pockets but has enough potential tie on points to strap a few bulky items to top/bottom if needed.

[@DaleTheMagnificent]

Thanks for the great rundown on these. I had been wondering how those press expensive Amazon sourced packs would hold up. You alluded to the Gregory Baltoro but any thoughts on the 75 or the Deuter 70+10?

[@eric_hanson]

It's been several years since I've used the Gregory Baltoro but I'm still fond of it. However I've never truly used Deuter Packs. Depends on what you're packing but 70+10 is pretty big and I think if you're filling that up you're carrying a bit too much.

[@DaleTheMagnificent]

@@eric_hansonThanks for the insight. It’s for a 9-day backpacking trek in grizzly country so I’ll try to keep it down.

[@billb5732]

How are packs without torso length adjustment adequate for you?

[@eric_hanson]

I'm lucky that my body type is kind of the prototypical average male backpacker they design this stuff for. So gear often works for me that might not work for someone with a different body type.

[@billb5732]

​@@eric_hanson That sounds very convenient! But it is worthwhile to consider torso length (and adjustability) when reviewing packs for other people. Being able to dial in the fit matters. I've seen cheap Decathlon and REI packs do that better than some expensive packs.

[@CoasttoCoastOutdoorAdventures]

Eric, I've been saving my pennies for the Arc Haul 70, but you have me reconsidering. I've used the same pack in about 3 different generations in my 27 years of backpacking; the Osprey Aether 70. I consistently carry 40 to 50 pounds depending on how many days I'm out, and love the organization of the Osprey. The point in buying the Arc Haul is saving 4.2 pounds. I'm curious to know which pack you would recommend for me from this list?

[@eric_hanson]

So far I've used the Arc Haul to carry 42 pounds at my heaviest and it was perfectly comfortable, surprisingly so. Could it handle 50? I'm not sure. If you really need to carry that much (camera gear I'm assuming?) I still think you can get away with the Arc Haul but I'd look into the Mystery Ranch Radix.

[@CoasttoCoastOutdoorAdventures]

@@eric_hanson thanks for the advice. I would only shave 1.7 pounds going with the Radix. I'll give it some thought, but I really like the idea of shaving off 4 pounds from my kit. And yes, the added weight is camera gear.

[@charlesd1900]

I am looking for a 50lb carry pack that has many storage pouches cause I like separation of my gear. I know that is not normal but it isnwhat I like. Would love a detachable brain also. Any suggestions please.

[@Outbound1219]

The only thing i didnt like about the teton was it has to be packed full or the top hood dont cover the top cinch top

[@martinmilks9691]

have you try or heard of 3F UL Gear ? let me know what you think

[@scottl3639]

Do you have any experience with Kelly backpacks

[@DuttonSha]

Just out of curiosity for anyone that has the radix, I’m looking at switching a few gear items this year and the radix is something I’m interested in I’m on the line for ultralight 80% of the hiking I do however I do like doing trips were I strap a bow to the side of my pack and go hunting so a true ultralight pack won’t be the best for me and then a Metcalf I feel is just to much for the 80% I’m not carrying the extra weight. My question to anyone familiar with this newer line up is if they think that radix is a good pack for someone like me?

[@eko_D]

I swear my my teton. It's lasted me 2 seasons backpacking. My pack can withstand 60lbs no issues.

[@Josephhikes]

Is the Radix 47 liters interior volume or total pack volume? Always enjoy your content.

[@eric_hanson]

Mystery Ranch measures their volume by what's "enclosed", so yeah it's internal volume. That means the Radix 57 and the Zpacks Archaul 70 have identical interior volume.

[@Josephhikes]

@@eric_hansonThey don’t count the side pockets, lid and front stuff pocket . So it might be 55 liters or so total ?

[@eric_hanson]

@@Josephhikes yes once you add in the side pockets and the generous front stuff pocket I think you'd be looking at 55+ total capacity.

[@Lizzybeth1973]

Bob IS my uncle 😂

[@garciadiegoalonso]

Hi Eric! What do you think of Patagonia's Ascensionist 55L backpack? Greetings from Argentina

[@eric_hanson]

Hola! I'm a big fan of Patagonia in general. I think the Ascensionist is a great climbing pack. But it's definitely geared towards climbing and mountaineering and not backpacking. So it depends on your use of it. If you just want to hike and camp I think there are better options out there.

[@garciadiegoalonso]

@@eric_hanson I understand perfectly. Thank you very much and I look forward to your videos! greetings!

[@xnMANBEARPiG]

I love my Pa'Lante Desert pack. 43l, 23.1oz.

[@SignTracker54]

Stone Glacier, any of them haha

[@americafirst5453]

Why is no one doing a review of the nashville pack cutaway I see very little on it.

[@dankle46]

The thing about teton is it's tough!

[@craigelliott4338]

Naturehike make very good stuff. I've got loads of it.