Key takeaways
- Best overall: Osprey Atmos AG 65 ($300 – $340).
- Best value: Deuter Speed Lite 21 ($75 – $100).
- Choose capacity by trip length: 20 to 30 liters for day hikes, 50 liters or more for multi-day trips.
In this article
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Choosing hiking backpacks in the US is easier when someone has already sorted the good from the overpriced. Below are the hiking backpacks we would buy right now, the ones worth a second look and the ones we would skip, each with a typical price and the reason behind the call.
Prices are typical ranges, not live prices. The button on each pick opens the current price.
Quick answer
- Best overall: Osprey Atmos AG 65 ($300 – $340)
- Best value: Deuter Speed Lite 21 ($75 – $100)
Hiking backpacks compared
| Product | Verdict | Score | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osprey Atmos AG 65 | Buy | 8.9/10 | $300 – $340 |
| Osprey Talon 22 | Buy | 8.8/10 | $140 – $160 |
| Osprey Stratos 24 | Buy | 8.6/10 | $160 – $180 |
| Deuter Speed Lite 21 | Buy | 8.3/10 | $75 – $100 |
Our picks in detail
Osprey Atmos AG 65
Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.9/10 · Typical price: $300 – $340
For most people, Osprey Atmos AG 65 is worth its usual price of $300 – $340. Our score: 8.9/10.
Osprey Talon 22
Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.8/10 · Typical price: $140 – $160
Osprey Talon 22 is one of the hiking backpacks we would buy in the US. It scores 8.8/10 in our ratings and usually sells for $140 – $160.
Osprey Stratos 24
Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.6/10 · Typical price: $160 – $180
A safe choice: Osprey Stratos 24 earns a buy verdict with a score of 8.6/10, at a typical price of $160 – $180.
Deuter Speed Lite 21
Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.3/10 · Typical price: $75 – $100
For most people, Deuter Speed Lite 21 is worth its usual price of $75 – $100. Our score: 8.3/10.
What to check before you buy
- Choose capacity by trip length: 20 to 30 liters for day hikes, 50 liters or more for multi-day trips.
- An adjustable back system and hip belt carry the weight comfortably.
- Rain covers and good ventilation help on long hikes.
What to skip
Common mistake: Buying without checking torso length.
When to buy
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November. A well-fitting mid-range pack beats an expensive one that does not fit.
Compare more options
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Related reading
Frequently asked questions
What are the best hiking backpacks in the US?
Our top pick is Osprey Atmos AG 65 (typically $300 – $340). For the best value, choose Deuter Speed Lite 21 (typically $75 – $100).
What should I check before buying hiking backpacks?
Choose capacity by trip length: 20 to 30 liters for day hikes, 50 liters or more for multi-day trips. An adjustable back system and hip belt carry the weight comfortably.
When is the best time to buy hiking backpacks in the US?
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November.
What is the most common mistake when buying hiking backpacks?
Buying without checking torso length.