best entry level hiking backpack

The first thing that caught my eye was how surprisingly spacious this Maelstrom 40L backpack feels the moment you pick it up. It’s lightweight—only about 1.5 pounds—but the amount of storage space it offers is impressive.

The main compartment easily fits all my essentials without feeling bulky or awkward to carry.

When I started packing, I appreciated the multiple pockets—two front zipped compartments, waist pouches, side pockets, and mesh sections. It’s like having dedicated spots for everything, making organization a breeze.

The fabric feels high-quality, with a waterproof, tear-resistant texture that really seems built for outdoor adventures.

The rain cover pocket is a thoughtful touch. I tested it in light rain, and my gear stayed completely dry thanks to the waterproof fabric and the quick-access rain cover pocket.

Plus, the reflective logo adds a layer of safety without being overly flashy. The water hose hole and Velcro strap on the main pocket show they thought about hydration needs, which is great for long hikes.

Comfort is key, and this pack delivers. The ergonomic shoulder straps and back support help distribute weight evenly, reducing fatigue.

The load compression straps help keep everything tight and balanced, while the survival whistle on the chest buckle is a clever emergency feature.

Its versatility shines through—whether you’re hiking, camping, or traveling. The adjustable straps and multiple fixing points for trekking poles or sleeping pads make it adaptable to various outdoor activities.

All in all, this backpack feels like a reliable, user-friendly option for anyone starting out but wanting quality and smart features.

The first thing that catches your eye when you pick up the IX INOXTO Waterproof Hiking Backpack is its sturdy build. The high-density polyester feels tough yet lightweight, making it surprisingly easy to carry around.

As you strap it on for the first time, the breathable mesh padding on the shoulder straps immediately stands out, offering instant comfort.

Once on, you’ll notice how well the 3D touch suspension system distributes weight evenly across your back. The steel frame support keeps the shape intact, and you won’t feel like you’re carrying a heavy load.

The reflective accents on the pack boost visibility, which is a thoughtful touch for late evening hikes.

Filling up the 3L water bladder is a breeze thanks to its large opening—no spills or mess. The leak-proof valve and cover cap give you peace of mind, especially when you’re moving quickly or climbing steep trails.

The hydration system works smoothly, providing a steady flow for easy sipping on the go.

The multiple compartments come in handy for organizing essentials—keys, snacks, or your phone are easily accessible. The bottom pocket is perfect for shoes or dirty clothes, keeping everything else clean and dry.

Despite its capacity, the backpack remains lightweight, so you won’t feel bogged down during long walks or hikes.

Overall, this pack feels like a smart entry-level choice. It’s durable, comfortable, and loaded with features that make outdoor adventures more manageable.

Plus, it meets airline size restrictions, making it ideal for travel too.

As I unzipped the Sherpa 22L Hiking Hydration Backpack for the first time, I was surprised to find how spacious it felt despite its lightweight design. The generous 22 liters instantly made me think I could pack everything I needed without feeling overwhelmed by bulk.

The six different compartments are a real win. You can stash snacks, a lightweight jacket, and even your phone and keys without everything tumbling together.

The waterproof zippers give me confidence that my gear stays dry, even when a sudden rainstorm hits.

The water bladder is a standout feature. Filling it is a breeze thanks to the wide opening, and the bite valve is easy to use without any leaks.

I appreciated how stable it felt on my back, thanks to the adjustable chest and hip straps. They keep the pack snug, so there’s no bouncing during my hike.

The trekking pole holders are a nice touch, especially when I need my hands free for tricky trail sections. Plus, the gear loops offer extra storage options.

It’s clear this pack was designed with practicality in mind, perfect for those starting out but wanting a reliable and comfortable option for day hikes.

Overall, the Sherpa backpack offers a lot for a beginner-friendly price. It’s lightweight, well-organized, and stays secure on your back.

A few small improvements could be made, but for the price, this pack is a real winner for new hikers.

Right out of the box, I was struck by how lightweight this NEHOR 60L backpack feels despite its massive capacity. The fabric has a subtle sheen, and the rip-resistant nylon construction feels tough but not bulky.

The water-resistant coating gives it a slick, smooth texture that hints at durability.

As I picked it up, I noticed the sturdy SBS zippers glide smoothly, which is surprisingly rare for a budget-friendly pack. The overall design is straightforward but thoughtfully put together, with reinforced stress points that promise long-term use.

The ventilated 3D sponge back panel is a game-changer—breathable and comfortable, even during a sweaty hike.

Adjusting the straps was a breeze, thanks to the ergonomic design. The chest buckle doubles as a survival whistle—nice touch for safety.

The multiple compartments are well-organized, with dedicated spaces for a hydration bladder, trekking poles, and gear. The rain cover stored in a bottom pocket popped out easily, and the reflective logos add a layer of safety.

Carrying 60 liters of gear, I found the weight distribution pretty balanced. Despite no internal frame, the padding and adjustable straps kept the load feeling manageable for hours.

The mesh side pockets and top zippers offered quick access to snacks or a phone. Overall, it’s a solid entry-level pack that handles outdoor adventures with ease and comfort.