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Most manufacturers list a load limit or range for their packs—on our list, these vary from 15 Replacing the well-loved Optic, Gregory’s Focal (and women’s-specific Facet) highlights the brand’s premium ethos in an ultralight package. We especially love the hip belt pockets on the Granite Gear Blaze 60, Gregory Baltoro 65, Gregory Focal 58, and the ULA Catalyst for their unrivaled size and ease of access.
The majority of backpackers take short trips—usually around one to three nights—and for those uses, a pack in the 50 to 70 liter range is most popular. Both packs offer excellent carrying comfort, durability, and most of the bells and whistles you could want in a deluxe hauler. We hear that often only to witness folks go on several trips without using their side access panel but still carrying the extra weight from that burly zipper. Granite Gear keeps things simple, and by using some of the lightest and most durable fabrics available, they manage to keep the pack light and strong.You get a total of seven external pockets—more than the Hyperlite or ULA above—which make it easy to distribute and organize your gear. If you plan to haul loads of 45 pounds or more consistently, you should consider a different model — this pack doesn't handle heavy loads as well as a pack that's close to 5 pounds probably should.
Now in its third iteration—fourth if you include the old Vapor Trail—the Crown3 is one of the most affordable yet versatile options available.Utah-based ULA Equipment has gone from a relative unknown to a darling of the PCT and AT in only a few short years. Bigger packs, like the 65L rucksacks upwards offer plenty of space to travel the globe, pack for a festival or spend a week camping.
The support system is designed to distribute even extremely heavy loads, and the user-friendly Perfect Fit Adjustment System allows easy adjustment for different bodies – in terms of both back length and width between shoulder straps. You’ll still want to make sure the rest of your gear is appropriately pared down—especially if you’re opting for the 48-liter version—but the good news is there’s no shortage of ultralight tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and other UL gear to choose from. This next-generation padding provides true on-the-back breathability, eliminates pressure points, and has moisture-wicking cooling benefits. This pack isn't the lightest in our ultralight backpacking pack review, but paired with a high volume, it still offers a good weight-to-volume ratio. A close-fitting style that is designed to hug the body and provide a streamlined appearance, which can enhance movement and performance during physical activity.
WATERPROOF RUCKSACK FOR CAMPINGFor those looking for a waterproof rucksack for camping, you'll need to be able to strap your overnight kit, tent, sleeping bag and more to your rucksack, so a larger trekking backpack is your best option. Padded hip belts and shoulder straps are worth very little without a good suspension to go along with them. The FreeFloat A3 system allows the hipbelt, shoulder harnesses, and lower backpanel to adapt and conform to your body's unique shape. For average trips with loads at or under 40 pounds, this is one of the more comfortable packs in our review.
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