Planning your first thru-hike and wondering which pack is best for long distance backpacking? Here are ten lightweight backpacks designed for that purpose, that you really can’t go wrong with in my opinion. They have been around for years and received many positive reviews and industry awards, and you will see a ton of them in use on long trails like the PCT, AT and JMT.
Lightweight backpacks are designed for base-weights under 15 lbs and can comfortably carry a maximum load of 25-40 pounds. That’s perfect for 5-7 day stretches between resupply stops. If you can’t fit your stuff into one of these lightweight packs, you’re probably packing too much.
ULA Equipment OHM 2.0
The ULA Equipment OHM 2.0 is the pack I carry myself and recommend for most people interested in lightweight backpacking. I think it offers the best combination of comfort, room, durability, features and light weight.
Specifications:
Weight: 2 lbs, 3 oz (1 lb, 14 oz without extras)
Capacity: 64 liters (3,960 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 30 lbs
Suspension: Carbon fiber/delrin suspension hoop
More info…
Granite Gear Crown VC 60
The Granite Gear Crown VC60 is the newest version of the Vapor Trail, a popular pack among thru-hikers and winner of many awards. It is also available in a female “KI” version. I carried this pack on my PCT thru-hike.
Specifications:
Weight: 2 lbs, 2 oz (1 lb, 13 oz without frame)
Capacity: 60 liters (3,660 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 35 lbs
Suspension: HDPE removable frame sheet
More info…
Osprey Exos 58
Osprey is known for making high quality well-engineered backpacks. Unfortunately, most of them are too heavy. The Osprey Exos 58 is the exception. You get Osprey quality, comfort and features in a lightweight package.
Specifications:
Weight: 2 lbs, 6 oz (2 lbs without top lid)
Capacity: 58 liters (3,540 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 40 lbs
Suspension: Mesh airspeed suspension
More info…
My Trail Co Backpack Light 50L
The My Trail Co Backpack Light 50L is the reincarnation of the Golite Jam, a classic pack with a long history and cult following. This simple pack design is time-tested and reasonably priced, a good choice for hikers on a budget.
Specifications:
Weight: 2 lbs, 2 oz
Capacity: 50 liters (3,050 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 40 lbs
Suspension: Composite frame sheet
More info…
Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60
Gossamer Gear has been pushing the envelope of ultralight pack design for over a decade, but one constant in their lineup has been the mid-sized Mariposa 60. This award winning pack is their best-seller for good reason.
Specifications:
Weight: 2 lbs, 1 oz
Capacity: 60 liters (3,480 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 35 lbs
Suspension: Removable foam sit pad
More info…
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 2400
Voted “Best Ultralight Pack” by Backpacker Magazine, the Hyperlight Mountain Gear Windrider boasts a 40 lb max load and 56 liter capacity in a featherweight pack that weighs under 2 lbs. Larger sizes are also available.
Specifications:
Weight: 1 lb, 12 oz
Capacity: 56 liters (3,450 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 40 lbs
Suspension: Contoured aluminum stays
More info…
ZPacks Arc Blast
The ZPacks Arc Blast features a unique curved frame that improves ventilation, comfort and load support. Dyneema Composite Fabric (formerly Cuben Fiber) makes this one of the lightest packs in it’s class.
Specifications:
Weight: 1 lb, 5 oz
Capacity: 55 liters (3,350 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 35 lbs
Suspension: Flexed arc frame
More info…
ULA Equipment CDT
The ULA Equipment CDT was my pack of choice for several years, before upgrading to the slightly larger OHM. It’s an excellent frameless pack, as long as you keep your gear compact and base weight under 12 lbs.
Specifications:
Weight: 1 lb, 8 oz (1 lb, 3 oz without extras)
Capacity: 54 liters (3,370 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 25 lbs
Suspension: Frameless
More info…
Granite Gear Virga 2
The Granite Gear Virga 2 is a minimalist pack, perfect for ultralight backpacking with 25 lbs or less. It doesn’t have many bells and whistles, but benefits from Granite Gear’s great reputation for comfort, ergonomics and durability.
Specifications:
Weight: 1 lb, 3 oz
Capacity: 54 liters (3,300 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 25 lbs
Suspension: Frameless
More info…
Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 58L
The Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 58L is the lightest pack on this list, weighing just a pound. That’s impressive for a full-size, full-featured pack, which may be why it was voted Backpacker’s Readers Choice for “Best UL Pack.”
Specifications:
Weight: 1 lb
Capacity: 58 liters (3,500 cu in)
Rec. Max Load: 25 lbs
Suspension: Frameless
More info…
