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Hiking was basically a way of life up in Alaska, and now that we’re in Colorado, even more so! With so many amazing trails, lakes, and mountains, the scenery is absolutely incredible. There’s no better way to see any gorgeous location than exploring while taking a nice hike.

It’s also vital to be prepared, as the weather can turn suddenly. What started as a nice, sunny summer day can quickly drop to below-50 degree temperatures.

The need to stay safe and make sure we have everything needed for a fun day of hiking inspired me to share some of the best hiking backpacks and accessories. Read on to see our favorites!

Best Hiking Backpacks Under $50: Affordable and High-Quality Options

Looking for a hiking backpack that won’t break the bank? You don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. In fact, there are plenty of great hiking backpacks available for under $50 that will keep your gear organized and comfortable on the trail.

When shopping for a backpack, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences. Do you need a lot of space for overnight camping trips or just a daypack for shorter hikes?

Are you looking for extra features like hydration compatibility or multiple compartments? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and find the best backpack for your specific needs.

We’ll take a look at some of the best hiking backpacks under $50 on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, you’re sure to find a backpack that fits your budget and meets your needs.

Identifying the Best Hiking Backpacks Under $50

If you’re looking for a hiking backpack that won’t break the bank, there are plenty of great options available for under $50. However, with so many models on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.

We’ll help you identify the best hiking backpacks under $50 by breaking down the features you should look for and comparing different models.

Understanding Backpack Features

When shopping for a hiking backpack, there are a few key features you should consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to look for a backpack that is comfortable to wear. This means finding a backpack with padded straps and a breathable back panel. You may also want to look for a backpack with a waist belt to help distribute the weight of your gear evenly.

Another important feature to consider is capacity. You’ll want to choose a backpack that is large enough to hold all of your gear, but not so large that it becomes cumbersome to carry. A backpack with a capacity of 30-40 liters is usually sufficient for day hikes, while a backpack with a capacity of 50-60 liters is better suited for overnight trips.

Finally, you’ll want to look for a backpack that is durable and made from high-quality materials. Look for backpacks made from ripstop nylon or polyester, as these materials are lightweight and resistant to tears and abrasions.

Key Components of a Quality Budget Backpack

When it comes to finding the best hiking backpacks under $50, there are a few key components that you should keep in mind to ensure that you get the most value for your money. These components include comfort and fit, as well as durability and material considerations.

Importance of Comfort and Fit

One of the most important considerations when choosing a budget backpack is the comfort and fit that it provides. A good backpack should fit snugly and comfortably against your back, without any gaps or pressure points. This ensures that the weight of the backpack is distributed evenly across your shoulders and hips, reducing the risk of strain or injury.

To achieve the perfect fit, look for backpacks that come in different sizes to accommodate different torso lengths. Additionally, look for backpacks with adjustable shoulder straps, sternum straps, and hip belts, which can be adjusted to fit your body shape and size.

Durability and Material Considerations

Another important consideration when choosing a budget backpack is its durability and the materials used to make it. A good backpack should be made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of hiking and outdoor activities.

Look for backpacks made from materials such as nylon or polyester, which are lightweight yet durable. Additionally, look for backpacks with an internal frame, which provides added support and stability. Backpacks with a water-resistant coating or material are also ideal, as they can protect your belongings from the elements.

To maximize the durability of your backpack, look for features such as reinforced stitching, sturdy zippers, and durable buckles. Additionally, look for backpacks with hip belt pockets, which can be used to store small items such as snacks, a phone, or a map, without having to take off the backpack.

By keeping these key components in mind, you can find a quality budget backpack that meets your needs and provides the comfort, fit, and durability you need for your next hiking adventure.

Storage and Accessibility

When it comes to hiking backpacks, storage and accessibility are crucial factors to consider. You need a backpack that can store all your essentials and keep them organized for easy access. Here are some features to look for in the best hiking backpacks under $50.

Compartmentalization and Pockets

A good hiking backpack should have multiple compartments and pockets to help you organize your gear. The main compartment is where you’ll store your heaviest items, such as your sleeping bag and tent. Look for a backpack with a separate sleeping bag compartment if you want to keep your sleeping bag separate from the rest of your gear.

Side pockets are ideal for storing water bottles, snacks, and other small items you need to access quickly. Top lid pockets are great for storing items you need to access frequently, such as your map, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Front pockets are perfect for storing rain gear, extra layers, and other items you need to access quickly.

Special Features for Gear Organization

Compression straps are essential for keeping your gear secure and preventing it from shifting around while you hike. They’re also useful for compressing your backpack when it’s not fully loaded.

External pockets are handy for storing items you need to access quickly, such as your phone, wallet, and keys. Look for a backpack with water bottle pockets if you plan on carrying water bottles with you on your hike.

Overall, the best hiking backpacks under $50 should have a variety of compartments and pockets to help you organize your gear. Look for backpacks with special features like compression straps and external pockets to keep your gear secure and easily accessible while you hike.

Best Hiking Backpacks Under $50: Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Adventurers

Hiking is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature while getting some exercise. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any hiker is a backpack. A good hiking backpack will keep your gear organized, protect it from the elements, and distribute the weight evenly across your body. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one?

We will be focusing on the best hiking backpacks under 50 dollars. While there are certainly more expensive backpacks with more features, we believe that you don’t need to break the bank to get a quality backpack for your hiking adventures.

When shopping for a hiking backpack, there are a few key things to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the size of the backpack.

A smaller backpack may be sufficient for a short day hike, but if you plan on carrying a lot of gear or going on longer hikes, you’ll want a larger backpack. You’ll also want to consider the material the backpack is made of, as well as its weight and comfort level.

With those factors in mind, we’ve tested and researched the best hiking backpacks under 50 dollars to help you make an informed decision. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, we’ve got you covered.

Best Affordable Hiking Backpacks Under $50

If you’re planning a day hike or a weekend camping trip, having a good hiking backpack is essential. However, finding a quality backpack that fits your budget can be a challenge.

Luckily, we’ve done the research for you and found the best hiking backpacks under $50. These backpacks are durable, spacious, and comfortable, making them the perfect choice for any outdoor adventure. Check out our top picks below.

Maelstrom Hiking Backpack

If you’re looking for a high-quality and affordable hiking backpack, the Maelstrom Hiking Backpack is an excellent choice. With its ergonomic and comfortable design, large capacity, and unique function design, it’s perfect for both men and women who love to hike and explore the great outdoors.

Pros

• The backpack is made of high-quality rip-stop 210d nylon fabric, which is water-resistant, tear-resistant, anti-scratch, and wear-resistant. It comes with a rain cover with a clear silver reflective logo to keep all your things dry during rain.
• The thicker padded back with ergonomic breathable design paired with adjustable, breathable and padded shoulder help to reduce fatigue during a long day of hiking. The adjustable chest buckle works perfectly to distribute the pack’s weight and keep it steady and centered.
• The camping backpack is printed with reflective signs to remind safety. The sides of the backpack have elastic and fasteners that can hold two sets of trekking sticks or adjust the webbing according to needs. There is a headphone hole on the top of the backpack for you to enjoy music.

Cons

• The backpack may not be suitable for those who need a larger capacity for longer hikes or camping trips.
• The water pipe hole on the top side of the backpack to assemble the water bag system may not be as secure as some users would like.
• The backpack may not be as durable as some higher-end models on the market.

Overall, the Maelstrom Hiking Backpack is a great choice for those who want a lightweight, comfortable, and affordable backpack for day hikes and shorter camping trips. It offers plenty of storage space, unique function design, and high-quality materials that will last for years to come. It’s definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a new hiking backpack.

EVERFUN Hydration Backpack

If you’re looking for a backpack that can hold all your hiking essentials and keep you hydrated, the EVERFUN Hydration Backpack is a great option.

Pros

• The backpack has a large 18-liter main compartment with a 10.5-inch opening, allowing you to fit all your hiking gear, clothes, and even your pet’s stuff. It also has a built-in mesh pocket for your valuables and an exterior upper velvet pocket to keep your mobile phone and camera safe. The side mesh pockets are perfect for storing extra water bottles and trekking poles.
• The backpack is lightweight and comfortable to wear, thanks to its ultra-elastic 3D breathable padded back, adjustable chest, and waist straps. It fits all sizes and is stable, making it perfect for hiking, cycling, and skiing.
• The backpack comes with a 2-liter water bladder and bilateral hose outlets designed to free your hands. The separate insulated bladder compartment can keep your water cool for up to 6 hours, and the bladder is replaceable and supports up to 3 liters.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the bladder makes the water taste heavily of plastic and that there is no good way to dry it out.
• A few customers have had issues with the bladder leaking, but the manufacturer seems to be responsive and willing to replace any defective products.
• The zippers on the smaller compartments only zip up from one end, making it difficult to access items in those pockets.

The EVERFUN Hydration Backpack is a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight and comfortable backpack that can hold all their hiking essentials and keep them hydrated. The backpack’s large storage capacity, comfortable design, and hands-free drinking make it a great choice for hiking, cycling, and skiing. Just be aware of the potential issues with the water bladder and zipper design.

Osprey Daylite Kids’ Everyday Backpack, Wave Blue

If you’re looking for a durable and lightweight backpack for your kids, the Osprey Daylite Kids’ Everyday Backpack is a great choice.

Pros

• The panel loading main compartment makes it easy to access items inside the backpack.
• The dual side mesh pockets are perfect for carrying water bottles and snacks during hikes or other outdoor activities.
• The multi-functional interior sleeve is designed to hold hydration packs, keeping your child hydrated on the go.

Cons

• The small front pocket may not be able to fit larger items.
• The backpack has a 10-liter capacity, which may not be enough for longer hikes or trips.
• The backpack may not fit larger water bottles due to the small circumference of the side mesh pockets.

The Osprey Daylite Kids’ Everyday Backpack is perfect for children who love to explore the outdoors. The backpack is designed with a panel loading main compartment, which makes it easy to access items inside the backpack.

The dual side mesh pockets are perfect for carrying water bottles and snacks during hikes or other outdoor activities. The backpack also features a small front pocket with a key clip, which is great for storing small items like keys or a wallet.

The backpack has a multi-functional interior sleeve, which is designed to hold hydration packs. This feature ensures that your child stays hydrated on the go, making it perfect for longer hikes or outdoor trips. The backpack also has an internal name tag and handle on top, which makes it easy to grab on the go or hang up in the classroom.

Overall, the Osprey Daylite Kids’ Everyday Backpack is a great choice for parents looking for a durable and lightweight backpack for their kids. It’s perfect for hiking, camping, or any other outdoor activity.

SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack

If you’re looking for a lightweight and affordable hiking backpack, then the SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack is a great option. It’s perfect for day hikes and has enough space to carry all your essentials.

Pros

• The backpack is made of high-quality polyester material that is durable and water-resistant.
• It has a lot of great features like a whistle, adjustable chest strap, and multiple pockets for storage.
• The backpack is lightweight and comfortable to wear, making it a great choice for long hikes.

Cons

• The whistle doesn’t work at all, so it’s not a reliable safety feature.
• The backpack is not suitable for heavy loads or long hikes.
• The backpack doesn’t have a hydration bladder, so you’ll need to bring your own water bottle.

If you’re looking for a lightweight and affordable hiking backpack for day hikes, then the SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack is a great choice. It’s made of high-quality polyester material that is durable and water-resistant, and it has a lot of great features like a whistle, adjustable chest strap, and multiple pockets for storage.

However, the backpack is not suitable for heavy loads or long hikes, and it doesn’t have a hydration bladder, so you’ll need to bring your own water bottle. Overall, the SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack is a great option for anyone who wants a reliable and affordable hiking backpack.

Venture Pal

If you’re looking for a backpack that’s lightweight, durable, and perfect for hiking, camping, or traveling, the Venture Pal backpack is a great option.

Pros

• The backpack has a large capacity of 40L, which is perfect for carrying all your essentials on a day hike or weekend camping trip.
• The backpack is made of high-quality tear and water-resistant nylon fabric, which means it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
• The backpack is designed with a breathable mesh shoulder strap and sponge padding, which helps to relieve the stress on your shoulders and back.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the backpack’s zippers can be a bit stiff and difficult to use.
• The backpack doesn’t have a lot of internal pockets, which can make it difficult to organize your gear.
• The backpack’s chest clip and whistle buckle can be a bit uncomfortable for some users.

The Venture Pal backpack is a great choice for anyone who wants a lightweight, durable, and versatile backpack for hiking, camping, or traveling. With its large capacity, high-quality materials, and comfortable design, this backpack is sure to become your go-to choice for all your outdoor adventures.

The backpack features an upgraded wet pocket design that makes it easy to separate sweaty clothes, towels, or other personal items after swimming or exercising. It also has a multi-compartment design, including one main zipped compartment, one zipped front pocket, and two side pockets, which makes it easy to organize your gear.

The backpack is also designed to be compact and easy to carry. It weighs only 1 pound and can easily fold into its own pocket for storage. It’s perfect for traveling and can easily fit in your luggage.

Overall, the Venture Pal backpack is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality backpack that’s both functional and stylish. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or traveling, this backpack is sure to meet all your needs.

G4Free 10L/15L Hiking Backpack

If you are looking for a lightweight, packable backpack for your next hiking adventure, the G4Free 10L/15L Hiking Backpack is worth considering.

Pros

• The backpack is foldable and can easily fit into your suitcase or car.
• It is lightweight, making it easy to carry and use.
• Made with thickened water-resistant nylon material and high-quality SBS zipper, it is durable and not easy to tear.

Cons

• The backpack has a limited capacity of 10 liters, which may not be enough for longer hikes.
• It has only one main compartment, which may not be enough to fit all your travel essentials.
• The backpack is not suitable for heavy-duty use, such as carrying heavy loads or rough terrain.

This backpack is perfect for one-day hiking, biking, traveling, camping, work, and shopping. It is also suitable for men and women.

The G4Free 10L/15L Hiking Backpack is easy to fold up into its pocket and unfold when you need it. It is the perfect companion for the outdoors, and its water-resistant material will keep your belongings dry even if it rains.

Overall, if you are looking for a lightweight, packable backpack that is easy to carry and use, the G4Free 10L/15L Hiking Backpack is a great option.

SAVVY NOMAD 40L Hiking Backpack

If you are looking for a lightweight and packable hiking backpack, SAVVY NOMAD 40L Hiking Backpack is a great choice for you. With its large capacity and multi-compartment design, it can accommodate all your travel essentials while keeping them organized and easily accessible. The backpack is also durable and comfortable to wear, making it an excellent option for outdoor activities.

Pros

• Lightweight and packable
• Large capacity with multi-compartment design
• Durable and comfortable to wear

Cons

• No back support
• Does not compress small enough for some travel purposes
• Clunky design

SAVVY NOMAD 40L Hiking Backpack weighs less than 2 pounds and can easily fold into its own pocket for storage, measuring only 8x9x5 inches. When unfolded, the backpack boasts a large 40-liter capacity, perfect for carrying all of your travel essentials. It can even be used as a carry-on backpack to avoid excess baggage charges. Whenever the backpack is not in use, it can easily be stored in any location by folding into its zipped inner pocket.

The backpack features a multi-compartment design that includes a generously sized main compartment, a zipped front pocket, two side mesh pockets, and numerous small pockets. Each compartment is thoughtfully crafted to assist in organizing and accessing all your belongings with ease. The front features a Velcro strap for securing items, and there’s a headphone hole on top for music and a water pipe hole for a hydration system.

SAVVY NOMAD 40L Hiking Backpack is designed to endure even the most strenuous activities with its high-quality tear and water-resistant nylon fabric. Its heavy-duty SBS metal zippers and reinforced stress points with bar tacking provide long-lasting performance. The backpack has mesh shoulder straps and back for breathability, sponge padding for stress relief, and an adjustable chest buckle that doubles as a survival whistle for emergencies.

In conclusion, SAVVY NOMAD 40L Hiking Backpack is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a lightweight, packable, and durable backpack for their outdoor activities. While it may not offer back support and may not compress small enough for some travel purposes, its large capacity, multi-compartment design, and durability make it a great investment for any adventurer.

Buying Guide

When looking for a hiking backpack under $50, there are several features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of the backpack are crucial to consider. You want to make sure that the backpack is the right size for your body and has enough space to carry all your essentials. A backpack that is too small will not be able to carry everything you need, while a backpack that is too large will be heavy and uncomfortable to carry.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort and fit are essential when selecting a hiking backpack. You want to make sure that the backpack fits your body well and is comfortable to wear for extended periods. Look for backpacks with adjustable straps and a padded back panel to ensure a comfortable fit.

Durability

Durability is another important factor to consider when selecting a hiking backpack. You want a backpack that is made of high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of hiking. Look for backpacks made of durable materials such as nylon or polyester.

Features

When selecting a hiking backpack, consider the features that are important to you. Some backpacks have additional features such as hydration compatibility, multiple pockets, and compression straps. Think about what features you need to make your hiking experience more comfortable and convenient.

Orca Tactical Military Molle Backpack

For a durable, military-style back, Orca Tactical’s got your back – get it?! It’s scratch- and water-resistant, making it nice and tough.

Since this bag doesn’t have a sleeping bag compartment, it’s ideal for day hikes. It even has a back compartment that can have a water bladder added inside.

Lewis N. Clark Packable Backpack

This Lewis N. Clark packable backpack is awesome for short, unanticipated excursions. I mentioned how awesome it is in Perfectly Packable Travel Accessories to Save Luggage Space, and wanted to highlight it again here!

The backpack folds up into a tiny pouch, making it perfect to keep in your vehicle so you’re ready to get out there on a moment’s notice. It’s ultralight and weighs less than an ounce when empty.

WATERFLY Water Resistant Waist Bag

Guys, I’m declaring fanny packs back in style. Okay, so maybe they were never truly stylish, but this waist bag from Waterfly is actually pretty nice! I mean, just look how happy this guy looks with it! 

It’s ideal for short walks where you want to bring your phone, wallet, and have a place for your keys. It would also be great for theme parks!

Just attach a water bottle with a carabiner – like the Lifestraw Go, mentioned below – and you’re good to go! Plus, it has the option of being worn as a crossbody bag if you’re just not feelin’ the fanny pack. It comes in a range of colors to match any outfit!

Taking your dog out hiking with you? Fun! Here’s a list of great dog backpacks for hiking!

What Accessories Do I Need For Hiking?

The ideal accessories for hiking can vary depending on when, where, and for how long you are planning to hike. There are a few essentials that everyone should bring with them to stay hydrated, safe, and have a fun hike. 

LifeStraw and LifeStraw Go

The Lifestraw is an essential addition to any hiking backpack. It filters out 99.999999% of waterborne bacteria, including E. coli and salmonella. It also filters out 99.999% of parasites.

They have the straw as a standalone option, which is awesome for those who want to have it in case of emergency. It’s small and lightweight, so it  doesn’t add much bulk to your supplies.

Personally, I prefer the Lifestraw Go water bottle. It’s durable and tough, with a sturdy carabiner clip to attach to any backpack.

It’s super convenient, and makes it so I don’t have to plan to bring so many water bottles. Any body of water will suffice for the Lifestraw. Even a puddle will do!

While Alaska’s water is very clean, the idea of a bear or moose pooping upstream is quite unappetizing! The Lifestraw helps filter out all the grossness. It does take a little more force to drink than traditional water bottles.

It’s totally worth it to not worry about running out of water as long as there are lakes, rivers, and glaciers nearby!

Even better, for every LifeStraw product purchased, a school child in need receives safe drinking water for an entire school year!

Emergency Kit

A bit of advanced preparation is key to having fun, safe hikes. An emergency kit with some matches, kindling, and mylar emergency blankets can be lifesaving.

You can DIY and assemble your own kit, or you can grab a packaged emergency hiking kit with all kinds of essentials.

A Dry Bag

A reliable dry bag is a must-have if you’re going to be around any body of water, or in an area where storms can occur suddenly.

Stick your phone, camera, car keys, and anything else that could be damaged by water inside and you’ll be good to go for any weather!

A Bear-Proof Food Canister

Okay, so most of you don’t have to worry about this one, but if you’re hiking in Alaska, or other bear-prone habitats, a bear-proof canister is important! It stores your food securely, and keeps smells from attracting hungry bears that may be nearby.

In some parks, such as Denali National Park, hikers are actually required to use them! Those parks sometimes have them available to rent, but they do have limited availability. Plan ahead and get one of your own just in case.

P.S. Don’t forget to add bear spray to your hiking essentials!

What’s your top hiking neccessity? Share with us below!