Blogs

For at least half an hour, the solar eclipse seemed like a total bust. Sure, I could glimpse a chipped-out corner of the Sun with my rinky-dink eclipse glasses, but its apparently-undaunted intensity continued to bounce off the surface of Fiddler Creek, searing my skin and melting the chocolate in my food bag. But as totality approached, the atmosphere finally changed. An eerie glow settled over the landscape, and birds began to chirp their evening songs.

The Sun, even 99% covered, had bravely persisted in rendering daylight. But then – totality. A flip of the light switch. A blue dusk. The only evidence of the Sun was its corona, blazing out from behind the moon. Planets revealed themselves in the daytime.
Time is a strange phenomenon indeed. Those four minutes of totality seemed to pass in an instant. Before I could blink, the fabled ‘diamond ring’ emerged for a few seconds, as the Sun shone only through a tiny crater at the edge of the Moon’s surface. And moments later, as the Sun re-emerged, the whole thing was over. Sometimes, I wish I could freeze the clock and enjoy a few extra minutes of this once-in-a-generation event.

A few months prior, I’d noticed that the 2024 eclipse cut its path of totality directly over the 223-mile Ouachita Trail (OT) in eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas. I’d previously hiked most of the OT in early March 2020. The solar eclipse gave me the perfect excuse to finish what I started. The odds of a sunny April day in Arkansas seemed low, but perhaps I’d get lucky. In any event though, I wanted to hike the OT for its own sake.
A Thru-hike of the Ouachita Trail Begins
Getting to the trail turned out to be half the battle. I took an overnight train to Texarkana, and caught a bus a couple hours north to Mena, AR. Eventually, getting to the beginning of the trail took nearly nine hours, and involved putting together five separate rides.
By the time I got to the western terminus at Talimena State Park, in eastern Oklahoma, the sun had nearly set. I snapped a quick photo and busted out a couple miles in the gathering gloom. Just before dark, I plopped down near a stream and snuggled into my quilt for the night. A quick cowboy camp would suffice.

The high terrain of Oklahoma proved the most chilly – and challenging – miles of the OT. The days were sunny and warm, but high pressure dominated the region for my first few days on trail. As soon as the sun set, the temperature dropped to the freezing mark. Equipped with warm clothes and an extra dose of fluffy down though, I cowboy camped my way through Oklahoma, reveling in the delightful orange sunsets and perhaps some of the brightest stars in the eastern United States.
The OT is well-marked along its entire length, but seldom-traveled in spots. The previous autumn’s leaf detritus lay thick on the ground, obscuring the rocky terrain of eastern Oklahoma. Each footstep was an adventure, with no indication of what kind of rocks I’d find underneath. In such conditions, my progress was tedious. I hiked deep into the evening hours those first few days. When I finally quit for the night, my legs ached badly enough that I struggled to fall asleep.
Hiking into Arkansas
Soon enough, I reached the Arkansas state line and my first resupply point – Queen Wilhelmina State Park. There, I charged my phone, met a couple other thru-hikers, and gorged myself at the magnificent breakfast buffet. Only three days in, I’d already developed an insatiable appetite.

It was a busy weekend in the National Forest. Plenty of families took advantage of the beautiful weather to stretch their legs with a quick day hike. And, a couple days before the event itself, eclipse-chasers were already starting to set up camp. On one occasion, I crossed a dirt road, only to find my way blocked by a car-camping couple who’d set up their tent directly in the middle of the trail. I apologized awkwardly as I danced past their guylines. I belonged in the backcountry, away from roads and the throngs of eclipse-seekers.
The event itself lived up to the hype. Despite an unfavorable forecast, clear skies persisted through most of the afternoon, allowing me an unimpeded view of the eclipse. As the evening progressed though, clouds began to pile up and a strong southerly wind swept moist air into the region. As darkness fell, lightning flashed to my south.

After dawdling for most of the afternoon during the eclipse, I needed to make serious miles. And given the night’s grim forecast (thunderstorms and heavy rains), I desperately wanted to get underneath a roof. There was a shelter eight miles away, but the thunder was only getting louder.
The next few hours were a blur, as I power-hiked through the darkness. The wind picked up, the lightning became almost continuous, and the humid air menaced rain. But, though the radar looked like a gallon of spilled paint, the downpour held off for the time being.

Finally, I spied the sign marking the short side-trail to the shelter. No sooner did I duck under the roof, than did the rain pour down by the bucketful. I made it, with minutes to spare!
I took advantage of a break in the weather the next morning to hike to the next road crossing, where I planned to resupply in the tiny hamlet of Story, AR. The trail had turned into a moat. A couple normally-dry creeks were running knee-deep. And more rain was on the way.

I’d planned for this eventuality. Each of my previous three springtime hikes in Arkansas had involved multi-day bouts of terrible weather, so I planned a couple of buffer days on this trip. I sat out the remainder of the day in Story, as well as the following day. When I hit the trail thereafter, I again had beautiful weather for the rest of the trip.
Story is a must-stop for any Ouachita Trail hiker. The Bluebell Cafe and its long-owner, Lori, have become legendary in the OT community. Lori offered me a ride from the trailhead to her store, and even a couple quick stops around town. The Bluebell itself is largely patronized by a stable crowd of remarkably-friendly locals. The sight of pouring rain through the cafe window made my burger taste even better.

After the rain-induced interregnum, I hit the trail for the final 100 miles of the OT. This western section proved lower, greener, and less rocky than the western half of the trail. I cruised through the easier terrain, reveling in the occasional mountaintop vista. A particular treat was Flatside Pinnacle, the best viewpoint on the entire trail. Though a fierce wind battered the mountain, I couldn’t resist the temptation of a thrilling lunch at the viewpoint.
The End of the Hike & Ouachita Trail Reflections
The last thirty miles of the OT finally brought a reprieve from the constant up-and-down. I cruised around the edge of Lake Maumelle, approaching the outskirts of Little Rock. The OT wouldn’t give up so easily though, delivering one final burst of rocky terrain at the eastern terminus in Pinnacle Mountain State Park.

I’ve often wished that I could have begun long-distance hiking in the 1980’s or 1990’s, rather than the 2010’s. Trails such as the Appalachian Trail (AT) or Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) are rightfully iconic, but as the popularity of thru-hiking has surged in the 21st century, the experience they offer has inevitably changed. Shelters on the AT are almost always full during peak season. It’s rare to go more than half a day without encountering other hikers. At times, the AT and PCT can seem like a 2,000-mile conga line, or a linear summer camp. Trail angels, no matter how kind-hearted, often burn out within a year or two, unable to keep pace with the relentless crush of traffic during the hiking season.

On the Ouachita Trail, I found an experience reminiscent of decades past. The OT is complete and well-maintained, but it’s not crowded. Its AT-style shelters are clean, well-built, and rarely occupied. Trail angels and shuttle services can engage each hiker one-on-one, rather than shuffling them through assembly-line style. Trailside businesses aren’t overwhelmed with hundreds of packages, and don’t need a complicated numbering system to keep track of them all. When locals help with getting hikers to town, it’s a genuine act of spontaneous generosity, rather than daily drudgery. In almost two weeks on the trail, I met only three other thru-hikers.

The Ouachita Trail is a throwback to the past. But perhaps it represents the future as well. As thru-hiking continues to surge in popularity, we need more trails to distribute the impact. The AT and PCT are arguably near their carrying capacity. But the Ouachita Trail isn’t. Neither is the Bartram Trail, Florida Trail, Pinhoti Trail, or the Idaho Centennial Trail. And that’s to say nothing of emergent trails like the Alaska Long Trail, which are still under development. In the Ouachita Trail, I caught a glimpse of both the past and potential future of thru-hiking. I couldn’t freeze the present. The Ouachita Trail was 223 miles long. I often wished it were twice that length. In the end, those four minutes of totality and those two weeks on trail were but a moment – a memory that I’ll treasure for decades.
Need to Know
Information
The Ouachita Trail is 223 miles, located on an east-west axis in eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas. No permits are required to hike the OT. The majority of the trail is located within the Ouachita National Forest, with small segments of state and private land (with easements), mainly on the west end.
The west end of the trail is generally higher, rockier, and more difficult than the east end. Two of the best views include Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain on the west end, and Ouachita Pinnacle and Flatside Pinnacle on the east end.
Common resupply points include the towns of Mena, AR and Story, AR. As an alternative to going into Mena, hikers may consider mailing a box to Queen Wilhelmina State Park. Check with the park before mailing a box for any special instructions.
Getting There
The western terminus, in Oklahoma’s Talimena State Park, is inaccessible via public transit. The closest transit hub is Fort Smith, AR (bus or air), an hour north. Several shuttle services offer transportation. The eastern terminus, in Pinnacle Mountain State Park, is accessible to Little Rock (rail, bus, or air) via a relatively inexpensive rideshare.
If section-hiking, the town of Mena, AR (near mile 68) makes a convenient endpoint, as it has twice-daily bus service to Kansas City, Fort Smith, and Texarkana.
Best Time to Go
The OT can be hiked at any time between October and April. Spring and fall are ideal. In recent years, winter thru-hikes of the OT have become more common. Winter hikers should be prepared for the possibility of subfreezing temperatures, snow, and ice. In times of drought, hikers may encounter the occasional dry stretch.
Maps and Books
Navigation is generally easy on the OT, though timber harvesting and prescribed burns have impacted the trail in a few spots, mainly on the west end. The trail is marked throughout with 2”x6” blue blazes. Maps can be ordered (or printed at home for free) here.
Tim Ernst’s Ouachita Trail Guide is the definitive guidebook for the OT. It’s well-produced and detailed. Although not necessary for navigation, it helps contextualize the trailside sights. A FarOut Guide is available as well. For planning and overview maps, the Delorme Atlas for Oklahoma and their Arkansas atlas can be helpful.
Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in Issue 57 of TrailGroove Magazine. You can read the original article here for additional photos and content.

An important core backpacking gear item, your backpacking sleeping bag needs to be light enough to carry easily, pack small enough so as to not take over your entire pack, and most importantly keep you warm and comfortable at night. In this guide we’ll focus on the best backpacking sleeping bags currently on the market by temperature rating.

As this is a backpacking focused article weight of the sleeping bag and warmth to weight ratio will be of a paramount focus here, with down bags ruling the roost. For a basecamp scenario, synthetic bags would be worth consideration. See our guide on down vs. synthetic insulation for more information and background. For the purposes of this article, we will focus on features, weight, and performance.
Best 30F+ & Summer Rated Backpacking Sleeping Bags
This can be a complicated category with many options. Bags in this range can be very light, but early morning hours can be a bit crisp and ample warmth will be appreciated during the night. My pick hands down would be the Zpacks Classic 30 degree sleeping bag. Weighing in at just 14 ounces and going for $440, this bag is made with DownTek 900 fill power water resistant down and is available in 7 different sizes.
Going to a hoodless sleeping bag (I mostly use the Zpacks 20 degree) has changed my backcountry sleeping for the better – now I can turn with the bag, or inside the bag, no matter. Additionally with the zipper on the bottom maximum heat is retained and you have no zipper at the top (leaking the most hot air) no matter if you’re a back sleeper or a side sleeper. In milder conditions above the shoulders just a warm hat works well for me, but if it gets cold at night you can add in an additional goose hood.

Traditional top-tier manufacturers include Feathered Friends and Western Mountaineering. When it comes to Western Mountaineering, they offer a variety of bags in this category, many that don’t have much difference between each other from a big picture point of view. Their MegaLite 30 degree sleeping bag weighs in at 24 ounces and is a nice option if you like more traditional design features. The MegaLite uses 850 fill down and is a wider bag with a passive draft collar that I’ve found is sufficient down to around freezing.
Western Mountaineering bags aren’t cheap – the MegaLite will set you back about $600 – but with proper care these are bags that will last darn near forever. For slimmer users and in warmer conditions one could consider the Western Mountaineering SummerLite (around $500, 19 ounces) – although we’ve found this one starts to take on a chill as temperatures close in towards the freezing mark, it would be ideal for warmer nights.

Both the MegaLite and SummerLite from Western Mountaineering feature a fully baffled construction (the bag is not sewn through to create the baffles – a sewn through bag results in a lighter and possibly less expensive construction but will have cold spots when temperatures drop).
The Western Mountaineering FlyLite is a newer bag that is an option for warmer weather trips – it’s rated to 36 degrees, weighs just ~14 ounces in a standard width, and retails for just over $500. This makes it the lightest fully baffled bag Western Mountaineering offers.

Draft tubes, draft collars, continuous baffles, and so on are not as critical during warmer conditions and their omission can save weight, but I find I've always appreciated these features in the field.
Feathered Friends additionally offers top of the line down sleeping bags including the Hummingbird UL 30 ($550, about 22 ounces). This is a narrower bag (saves weight, more efficient) so keep that in mind, but if you’ll fit, as with Western Mountaineering this 950 fill power down bag is expensive but worth it.
For women Feathered Friends offers their Egret UL 30 ($550, about 24 ounces) with an even narrower cut but in a more women’s-specific shape. Wider bags from Feathered Friends include the Swift UL 30 ($580, about 26 ounces) and the more middle of the road width wise Swallow UL 30 (24 ounces, $570). It will be hard to go wrong with a Feathered Friends bag, so long as you get the right fit.

Another option is the REI Co-op Magma 30 (averaging around 25 ounces, $380) – offered in no less than 9 sizes for an almost custom type of fit, this bag keeps it lightweight via use of an 850 fill power water resistant down, standard features, and you even get an interior pocket. While of all of my backpacking gear a down sleeping bag is one place where I would not try to cut budget, this is one bag that could be considered more in the budget category if you catch it on sale.
Summary: Best 30F+ & Summer Rated Sleeping Bags (and rating F)
Zpacks Classic 30
Western Mountaineering MegaLite (30)
Western Mountaineering SummerLite (32)
Western Mountaineering FlyLite (36)
Feathered Friends Hummingbird UL 30
Feathered Friends Egret UL 30
Feathered Friends Swift UL 30
Feathered Friends Swallow UL 30
REI Co-op Magma 30
Best 20 Degree Range Sleeping Bags
Everything in nature seems to change below freezing, and at these temperatures I find that it becomes more important to consider those extra features like a nice draft tube and hood, with a draft collar being very much appreciated. For me and many others that backpack mostly in mountain terrain, the 20 degree bag gets the most use 3 seasons out of the year. These are your bread and butter sleeping bags, and from my perspective if you’re looking for the best sleeping bag in this category, you’ll likely be looking at the same brands we’ve previously discussed.
Feathered Friends offers their versatile Hummingbird UL 20 (24 ounces, $610) – with the Feathered Friends Egret 20 (~28 ounces, around $610) being a women’s-specific option in this temperature range. These are narrower bags to save the most weight. However, if you like a little more space in a bag as I do, check out the Swallow UL 20 (27 ounces, $630).

In regards to Western Mountaineering, we can narrow this down to the venerable UltraLite 20 degree (29 ounces, $630) – which is your narrow / standard option – and the wider and perhaps more comfortable 20 degree AlpinLite (31 ounces, $710). Although it’s a bit heavier the AlpinLite’s space wins out for me out of these two bags, but as with Feathered Friends, you can’t go wrong here.
That said as previously mentioned and although I have had many a comfortable backcountry night in a WM AlpinLite, my preference for a backpacking sleeping bag has evolved towards the hoodless category. The Zpacks 20 Degree Classic sleeping bag (~19 ounces, $460) is my current choice for a bag in this temperature range – I find at these temperatures a hoodless bag is ideal (so long as I wear the warm hat I already take and wear a jacket with a hood). You can find my review of the Zpacks 20 here, although Zpacks has since updated the bag just a bit with upgrades. Zpacks again also offers their goose hood, but with a warm hat and jacket hood, I haven’t personally needed this until temps fall below 20. That said if you’re not ready to give up your sleeping bag hood, Zpacks also offers their 20 degree Mummy sleeping bag (23 ounces in medium standard, $580) with a built-in traditional hood.

When on sale, for a more budget option in this category we’ll go ahead and put the REI Co-op Magma 15 in this category (comfort limit: 21 degrees). With a weight of around 36 ounces depending on size and retailing at $429 full price, this bag offers a very reasonable weight in 9 different sizes for a tailored fit, and at a very reasonable price especially if you catch it on sale.
Summary: Best 20 Degree Range Sleeping Bags
Feathered Friends Hummingbird UL 20
Feathered Friends Egret UL 20
Feathered Friends Swallow UL 20
Western Mountaineering UltraLite (20)
Western Mountaineering AlpinLite (20)
Zpacks 20 Degree Classic
Zpacks 20 Degree Mummy
REI Co-op Magma 15
Best Winter and Cold Weather (Zero and 10 Degree) Sleeping Bags
I find that it’s more versatile to have 2 warmer rated bags, combining them to form a winter sleep system when needed for cold winter trips rather than keeping a bag from this category on hand. As an example, I’ve combined a 20 degree and a more summer-oriented bag and stayed warm (with appropriate sleeping pads and a total r-value for the temperature) on winter trips nearing minus 20F. That said if you have one 3 season bag that covers all seasons other than winter, sleep especially cold and want a warmer bag for 3 season mountain trips, or are looking to add in a dedicated winter bag, a bag in this category may be desired.
Same players, different temperature ratings again here. The 2lb., $735 Western Mountaineering VersaLite 10 degree sleeping bag is a solid choice on the warmer end of this category. One nice thing about the Versalite is that it’s in the middle width-wise – just right. Going back a bit to their 20 degree options, if the UltraLite was a bit too tight, and the AlpinLite a bit too wide, the VersaLite will likely be a perfect choice.

For a women’s-specific bag check out the 10 degree Feathered Friends Petrel UL 10 (2lbs, $660). This is a super high quality women’s bag that is not unheard of on packing lists even for summer trips in the mountains for cold sleepers. As a women’s bag I haven’t personally used the Petrel, but having seen this bag being used in the field on many occasions I’m never surprised by the loft of Petrel – you may need a bigger pack!
At these temperatures I do think a sleeping bag hood is something good to have – you want to retain every bit of heat your body puts off during the night within a singular compartment and bag. Thus the 28 ounce, $600 Zpacks Mummy Sleeping Bag in a 10 degree would be well worth consideration here for hikers looking to save weight.

On cold winter trips, I prioritize warmth and features over weight.
The colder it becomes the less I am personally concerned about weight – I prioritize warmth and comfort – and the last thing I’d want is a constricting bag on a winter night that could last 16 hours or more. In their wide mummy series the Feathered Friends Raven 10 UL (34 ounces, $700) would make for a top of the line choice in a 10 degree bag, but if saving the weight is more critical (via less width), the Feathered Friends Lark 10 UL (31 ounces, $680) would be the next logical choice here.
Pushing the rating to 0F Feathered Friends offers their women’s Murre ES 0 degree bag (3lbs, $780) as well as their Ibis ES 0 Degree (50 ounces, $820). With a focus on heating efficiency, both of these bags have a bit of a narrow cut to be aware of – as with many things, there are pros and cons.
Summary: Best Winter and Cold Weather Sleeping Bags
Western Mountaineering VersaLite (10)
Feathered Friends Petrel UL 10
Zpacks 10 Degree Mummy
Feathered Friends Raven 10 UL
Feathered Friends Lark 10 UL
Feathered Friends Murre ES 0
Feathered Friends Ibis ES 0
Deep Winter / Expedition Sleeping Bags
While I prefer to combine 2 bags to make a poor man’s expedition bag for general winter backpacking trips in the lower 48, if I were to plan an Arctic expedition, a cold mountaineering summit attempt, or for some type of cold northern basecamp type scenario, an expedition bag would certainly be appreciated in these unique circumstances.

Feathered Friends and Western Mountaineering offer some very intriguing, and impressive, choices here that both throw plenty of goose down at the issue. The Western Mountaineering Bison Stormshield (69 ounces, $1360) is rated to -40F with 10” of loft and a weather-resistant shell. This bag is sized generously for additional comfort on those long winter nights.
On the Feathered Friends side, their -40F solution can be found in the Snow Goose ES -40 (65 ounces, $1170). This bag is another bag that’s sized generously for more comfort and space if you’ll be spending a lot of time in your sleeping bag. If -40F isn’t warm enough however, the 78 ounce, $1360 Snowy Owl ES -60 bag from Feathered Friends may be up your alley for the most epic of arctic level expeditions.
Summary: Deep Winter / Expedition Sleeping Bags
Western Mountaineering Bison Stormshield (-40)
Feathered Friends Snow Goose ES -40
Feathered Friends Snowy Owl -60

Whether it's an expedition sleeping bag rated to 60 below or a featherweight summer bag that packs up smaller than a water bottle, there is a sleeping bag on the market for every possible use and scenario.
In Conclusion
A critical item on your gear list, there are a few ways to go about your sleeping bag strategy. You could choose to go with a bag rated for the lowest temperatures you’ll ever backpack in, but this bag may be overly bulky and heavy for warm summer trips (albeit workable). To save weight, I like to go with a 2 bag system, a warmer bag for downright summer-like weather, and a 20 degree bag that gets the vast majority of use for 3-season trips in the mountains where lows in the 20s are not uncommon in August. When I head out on a winter trip, I combine them.
Whether you opt for a 1 bag approach or a multitude of bags ideal for every scenario, sleeping warm adds to any trip – and while a slightly heavier and warmer bag may not rule the ultralight spreadsheet, some temperature rating buffer is always appreciated at night when you’re out there.
For a list of sleeping bags from various manufacturers that you can sort and filter by temperature rating and more, see this page at REI Co-op. For background info on sleeping bags, refer to our guide on How to Choose the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag.
For additional related “big 3” and “big 4” gear selection, take a look at our articles: Choosing the Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad as well as Best Backpacking Backpacks, and Best Backpacking Tents by Application and Budget.

As one of the most important decisions you can make when it comes to backpacking gear, your choice of a backpacking tent can have quite the impact in regards to your comfort in camp and protection from the elements. Additionally, choosing the best backpacking tent can also have an impact when it comes to weight carried on the trail (as one of, if not the heaviest items in your pack), and a tent decision can have quite the impact on your wallet, as well.

With many factors to consider, in this article we’ll look at the top backpacking tents currently on the market, with a preference towards tents that of course offer protection from the elements, but also are lightweight and include plenty of space for the weight (including headroom), while remaining sufficiently durable and easy to use. Additionally preference here leans towards tents that haven’t had any flame or fire retardant chemicals applied, and for tents that are easy to get in and out of and have space to store gear.
Best Solo & Ultralight Backpacking Tents
For solo use I look to save just about as much weight as possible and space is less of a concern – I find a little extra space to be much more useful and important when there’s more than one person sharing a tent. If it’s just me and in this day and age, I’ll look to go with a Dyneema Composite Fabric tent every time and will look for an ultralight tent under the 20 ounce mark or so. Previously my choice has been the (discontinued) Zpacks Hexamid Twin, which while designed for two was much more workable for one person having only a single side door and one vestibule. This tent however still only weighed around a pound.

An ultralight Dyneema Composite Fabric tent from Zpacks
Luckily there are modern-day alternatives available from Zpacks via their Plex Solo tent ($599, 14.5 oz.) as well as their Altaplex Solo tent ($669, 16.5 oz.), with the Altaplex being designed for taller hikers. I like a rectangular, non-tapering floorplan whenever I can get it no matter what tent I’m looking at, and as such the Altaplex would be an intriguing ultralight option. That said for those using standard-width pads who want the lightest pack, the Plex Solo and the Plex Solo Lite tent (a Plex Solo tent option featuring more ultralight materials and further weight savings) are equally interesting choices.
With the solo tent category one door and one vestibule work great, as can be found in the tent designs discussed above. However, especially for those that backpack with a wide pad and like space, the Duplex Lite tent ($669, 14.9 oz.) should be given strong consideration. The Duplex Lite is also an option for 2 with standard-width pads, who want to save as much weight as possible and don’t mind bumping elbows.
Regardless of which Zpacks tent you go with, I’d suggest at least considering their .75 oz. canopy material over the default .55 oz. Dyneema. I’ve used the .55 oz. material for years without issue – it’s not a bad default material and my tents have withstood years of use and severe weather. However, future DCF tents that I purchase will likely be of the .75 oz. variety just for all-around insurance.
The .75 oz. material will be stronger and offer greater puncture resistance, which may be appreciated over the long haul and when you need it, without too much of a weight penalty. As you might have guessed, Zpacks offering buyers the choice of this fabric option is one reason their tents are recommended so highly in this article. Note that as you might expect, their "Lite" tents are not offered in this heavier duty fabric, but are still worth consideration as the lightest of the light.

However, if you’re not sold on Dyneema and prefer a more traditionally-designed tent, one that does stand out in this category can be found in the NEMO Hornet Elite Osmo 1-Person tent ($550, 29 oz.). With 39” of headroom this tent may not be the most ideal choice for the tallest of users, but this height is on par with other tents in the more traditional, double-walled and freestanding (or semi-freestanding) tent market. At less than 2 pounds this tent will not weigh you down and can even fit a rectangular large and wide sleeping pad. If you’re looking to save some cash, NEMO also offers a standard version of the Hornet Osmo, which still comes in at a respectable weight with slightly smaller interior dimensions.
Summary: Best Solo & Ultralight Tents
Zpacks Plex Solo Standard
Zpacks Altaplex Classic
Zpacks Plex Solo Lite
Zpacks Duplex Lite
NEMO Hornet Osmo Elite
NEMO Hornet Osmo Standard
In summary if you’re looking for a Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) ultralight or solo tent and are open to a non-traditional design, Zpacks offers an excellent choice of floorplans and overall performance, and with the option of a heavier-duty DCF fabric for durability. For a more traditional design but still in the ultralight category, take a look at the NEMO Osmo series.
Best 2-Person Backpacking Tents
For a 2-person backpacking tent, I look for 2 doors with side entries and 2 matching vestibules, without question. This allows each person their own entry and exit (no having to crawl over anyone) and their own space to store gear at night. Generally, around 3lbs. or less is a good target here. For many years my go-to option here was the Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo ($395, 45 oz.). This tent features all the prerequisites above, but the weight of their lighter backpacking model (previously known as the Explorer model, and suggested if budget allows over their heavier Lunar Duo Outfitter) has crept up a bit in recent years.

The Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo 2-person backpacking tent
That said, the Lunar Duo backpacking model is not exactly heavy by any means and is a wonderful design with a 54x90” floorplan. This is one of the best floor measurements for a 2-person tent I’ve ever used. It’s long enough for tall hikers, wide enough for 2 wide pads, and isn’t excessive even with 2 standard pads…extra space is always nice. Additionally, the 45” centered height is great for sitting up in the tent. If at least one hiker uses a shorter pad, you can easily fit 2 people plus a dog or very small child in this tent as well, with gear being stored in the large vestibules. Find our Lunar Duo review here.
About the only downside to this tent is that, as with all silnylon / silpoly tents including those to follow from Tarptent, you’ll need to seal the seams with something like SeamGrip SIL seam sealer at home before you head out, although many manufacturers are now offering this as an add-on service. Many backpackers – including myself – have long hoped that Six Moon Designs would come out with a Dyneema Lunar Duo to take things from lightweight to ultralight...we’ll continue to keep our hopes up.

With its 90" long floor, the Lunar Duo from Six Moon Designs can fit 2 people with extra room, especially if at least one person utilizes a shorter sleeping pad.
For something lighter but significantly more expensive, the Zpacks Duplex tent ($699, 17.9 oz.) or the larger ZPacks Triplex tent ($799, 21.4 oz.) are worth significant consideration. Zpacks tents are made from Dyneema Composite Fabric to save weight and you’ll end up with a tent that won’t sag in the rain like you can get with silnylon. At a 45” floor width, the Duplex will be tight for 2 people and both hikers will have to use standard-width sleeping pads, unless you want to absolutely max out the width of the floor with 1 wide and 1 regular-width sleeping pad…something I don’t recommend. The Triplex however, at a 60” floor width would be extremely tight for 3, but has plenty of room for 2 people with wide pads and room for gear or possibly a dog or small child as well. For 2+ look at the Offset Trio tent which will offer a little more width at the head of the tent, and a bit more length as well which can make fitting a dog in much easier.

The Zpacks Triplex features a 60" wide floor, offering room for 2 people using wide sleeping pads with room to spare.
Mainstream manufacturer Big Agnes makes some interesting tents in their Platinum and Carbon lines that are either freestanding or semi-freestanding, however there are some compromises to be had related to interior space or entry configuration (a side door, even when solo, is preferred). For example the Tiger Wall 2 Platinum tent ($650, 35 oz.) will get you a semi-freestanding tent for 2 using standard-width pads, but the 86” length and 39” peak height combined with a lengthwise sloping ceiling would be cramped for taller users. The Copper Spur 3 Platinum ($700, 52 oz.) is an interesting tent that boosts the interior length and height while using a more domed design, and is fully freestanding. This tent would be a palace for something like 2 people using wide pads that want plenty of personal space, or two and a dog (and as a 3-person tent of course – more on that later).

All said, the Zpacks Triplex (for more see our full Zpacks Triplex review) is a top choice in this category for maximum flexibility (tents only seem smaller in the field). 60” is a bit much, and something close to the width of the Lunar Duo would be closer to perfect for 2. That said, we’re not making a custom tent here and beggars can’t be choosers. For two using wide pads who also have a dog along, the aforementioned Offset Trio would be a better fit. Both of these tents feature 2 doors and 2 vestibules. You can view both the Triplex and the Offset Series of tents here at Zpacks.com.
Summary: Best 2-Person Backpacking Tents
Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo
Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo Outfitter
Zpacks Duplex
Zpacks Triplex
Zpacks Offset Trio
Big Agnes Tiger Wall 2 Platinum
Big Agnes Copper Spur 3 Platinum
To summarize, the Zpacks Triplex is our choice in this category, fitting 2 people with wide pads comfortably while the Duplex would be more of an ultralight option for 2 with standard pads, while the Offset Trio allows for maximum comfort. The venerable Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo series offers a more budget-friendly option. For a more traditional design, the Big Agnes Platinum tents are worth consideration.
Best Family or Group Backpacking Tents
There is not much discussion to be had here when it comes to the best group and family backpacking tent, as unfortunately it seems manufacturers pour most of their research and development into their 1 or 2-person tent designs. The Tarptent Hogback ($579, 63.2 oz.) is my choice in this category with few competitors. The Hogback is a 4-person tent that weighs in around 4 pounds and features an 86x86” floorplan that can fit up to 4 standard-width pads, or 3 wide pads, and features double-wall construction with either mesh or partial-solid fabric inner options. 4 people in the Hogback will be a squeeze and you’ll be fighting for vestibule space, but we’ve used it for 3 plus a dog on many occasions.

Tarptent Hogback 4-person backpacking tent
Although for years Tarptent declined to entertain the idea of making Dyneema Composite Fabric tents, in recent years they began to utilize this weight-saving non-stretch fabric, but it hasn’t made it up the line to the Hogback quite yet (which would save quite a bit of weight in a tent this large). That said, we’ve been quite happy with the silnylon fly utilized in our Hogback and about 4lbs is still quite light for a tent of this size. You can read our full Tarptent Hogback review here.
Although more of a backpacking shelter than a tent due to its floorless nature, the Black Diamond Mega Light tent ($400, 45 oz.) is also worth considering in this category and these tents and tents of a similar design have been successfully used by educational expeditions for many years. Depending on where you’re backpacking however, the extra bug and weather protection you get with an integrated floor like you’ll find on the Hogback may be appreciated.
There is an optional nest available for the Mega Light; however it more than doubles the weight and almost doubles the price. For a lighter option Hyperlite Mountain Gear offers their UltaMid 4 pyramid ($1440 as a tent, 62 oz. with the floored mesh insert and pole). With either of these shelters you'll need to be aware of some compromises pyramid shelters can have – like a pole in the center of the tent, slanted walls, typically one (relatively) small door for entry and exit, lack of vestibule space, and the possibility of rain getting into the tent when entering and exiting due to the slanted walls.

For freestanding options, the previously mentioned Big Agnes Copper Spur 3 Platinum ($700, 52 oz.) can fit 3 people with standard-width pads with room to spare, or 1 person with a wide pad and 2 others with 20” wide sleeping pads. The Copper Spur UL4 tent ($800, 88 oz.), with its larger (listed) 86x96” floorplan can fit 4 people with a couple of those people using wide pads, and this tent also has an impressive 50” inside height. In our testing getting this tent's floorplan to measure up to specs would be quite a stretch; thus we cannot recommend this tent maxed out with 3X wide pads along with 1 standard width pad. That said the tent will fit 4 people all in the same tent, although you’ll be well over 5lbs. And if the UL4 still isn’t enough space, you can take a look at the 86x108” Copper Spur HV UL5 ($900, 117 oz.) which, as you might expect, is designed for groups of 5 and features 60” – or 5 feet, of headroom.
The Copper Spur UL line is typically a leader on the spec sheets – just be aware that to achieve light weight in a traditional design Big Agnes uses very light 15 and 20D fabrics that are lower on the hydrostatic head scale and feature a PU (polyurethane) coating. Coatings are very waterproof and allow manufacturers to tape seams, but coatings wear off, unlike impregnated silicone or Dyneema waterproof fabrics (it would be suggested to use a groundsheet – I use one made of window insulation film).
At some point and once the group size gets larger, taking multiple smaller separate tents may make the most sense and can even save weight over a single larger tent – although depending on your tent choice, this can potentially be more expensive.
Summary: Best Family or Group Backpacking Tents
Tarptent Hogback
Black Diamond Mega Light
HMG UltaMid 4
Big Agnes Copper Spur 3 Platinum
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL4
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL5
For family and group tents the Tarptent Hogback is our choice, if your group will fit. The struts allow for good use of the 86x86” floorplan, but 86x86” is tight as group size approaches 4. The Black Diamond Mega Light and HMG UltaMid4 are pyramid options, which again are great if you fit and if you can deal with the drawbacks of the pyramid design, including inefficient use of floorspace. For more traditional designs, the Copper Spur series should be considered, however care will need to be exercised with the ultralight fabrics utilized.
Best Budget Backpacking Tents
Budget is relative, but for this category we can go ahead and rule out ultralight Dyneema tents and set our focus on the much more affordable nylon and polyester options. The Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo ($260, 26 oz.) can be had for less with free shipping and a sign-up discount, and if you catch it on sale it can even go for under $200. The Lunar Solo is roomy for one, fitting either standard or wide pads. The REI Co-op Half Dome Series of tents with a 2-person as well as a 3-person option has also been a go-to choice for many years.
The REI Co-op Flash Series of tents offer lighter weight options, and can typically be found on sale at intervals throughout the year. The venerable Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo can also be found in their heavier but much cheaper polyester Outfitter Tent version, which will get you a palace for 2 people in a package under 4lbs. for around $200. If you’re looking to save and aren’t too picky on an exact model, checking the REI Co-op Outlet from time to time can lead to some good savings on a variety of tent models from various manufacturers.
Summary: Best Budget Backpacking Tents
Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
REI Co-op Half Dome Series
REI Co-op Flash Series
Lunar Duo Outfitter
REI Co-op Outlet Tents
If you’re looking to save some cash but still want a great tent, the SMD Lunar Solo is a venerable choice in this category for solo use. For two, look to the Lunar Duo Outfitter also from Six Moon Designs. The REI Co-op Half Dome series make for a traditional choice, with the REI Co-op Flash series offering some weight savings, and it’s always worth browsing the REI Co-op Outlet to see what’s on sale.
Best 4-Season Backpacking Tents
All the tents listed here thus far are primarily targeted towards 3-season use, but if you’re wanting to extend your trips into winter where heavy snow load can be expected and freestanding features become more important, you’ll need to look into 4-season options. The Black Diamond Firstlight 2P ($480, 54 oz.) has been a popular option for solo and 2-person use for years – you can find our full review of the Firstlight 2P tent here. If you like the Firstlight but want a little more space for 2 people, look at the Black Diamond Firstlight 3P ($550, 64 oz.). Black Diamond also offers their Hilight 2P tent as well as the Hilight 3P tent, which are very similar to the Firstlight except with upgraded features at a weight penalty.

Tarptent Scarp 2 4-season tent
For my use, I like the Tarptent Scarp 2 ($539, 56 oz.), however the weight is getting up there with the crossing poles and you’ll need to set a couple snow anchors with this one. For more, take a look at our Tarptent Scarp 2 review. When it comes to 4-season tents and winter backpacking, you don't want to make any compromises in regards to protection from the elements or the sturdiness of your tent, and extra weight carried here is typically worth it.
Summary: Best 4-Season Backpacking Tents
Black Diamond Firstlight 2P
Black Diamond Firstlight 3P
Black Diamond Hilight 2P
Black Diamond Hilight 3P
Tarptent Scarp 2
For winter and 4-season usage the Scarp 2 from Tarptent is my choice, be it a solo or 2-person trip. However and as you might expect, Black Diamond has plenty of choices in this category that are among the most popular 4-season tents of all time.
Final Thoughts
Overall when selecting the best backpacking tent you need to find a balance between weather and bug protection, weight, space, and price – and getting that balance just right will be a little different for each of us. However, with hundreds of options on the market the perfect tent is likely out there for everyone no matter your needs.
For more on baseline information and factors to consider when choosing a backpacking tent or shelter, see our guide on how to choose a backpacking tent that goes into tent design and factors to consider on a more overall and general level. For a list of additional backpacking tents to consider from various manufacturers that you can narrow down by capacity, season, and more, check out this page at REI.com.

On the trail my dinner requirements are simple: after a day of hiking and after setting up camp and filtering water for the night, I just want a meal that tastes good, doesn’t take long in the typical fading evening light, and meets some basic calorie and nutrition requirements. And all without too much clean up afterwards. With all these prerequisites in mind, freeze-dried meals can often be found in my food bag – and most of the time these meals will be a selection of staples I’ve come to find always hit the spot over the years.

That said, it’s always good to mix things up and as new meals are released I typically give them a try – the latest of which is this Mexican-themed meal from Backpacker’s Pantry.
Backpacker's Pantry Fiesta Beef & Vegetable Bowl
The Fiesta Beef & Vegetable Bowl from Backpacker’s Pantry is a backpacking meal with 520 calories and 31 grams of protein. The meal is composed of rice, beans, beef, freeze-dried cheddar cheese, vegetables, sour cream powder, lime, and spices. The directions call for 1.5 cups of water and 15 minutes of rehydration time with a stir about halfway through. However, the directions are set for 5000 feet and rehydration time doubles for every 5000 feet over this. Thus, you’ll be waiting about 30 minutes at a common backpacking mountain elevation of around 10,000 feet above sea level.

After opening the bag I was surprised that there didn’t seem to be much product in the bottom, and initially I wondered if a mistake had been made. However, after rehydration the resulting meal seemed more like a typical 500 calorie or so freeze-dried meal portion. Rehydration wise, the meal turned out to be quite soupy, but the ingredients did seem sufficiently rehydrated. Due to the soupy nature of the meal, my hopes for this one ending up as a good tortilla filling were quickly dashed.

Taste wise, the lime is quite present along with a spicy heat note. I didn’t pick up much on the included freeze-dried cheddar cheese, and I got the overall impression that the meal would serve as a decent base to expand upon – as if it needed just a little something extra…it just didn’t feel like I was getting that Mexican food fix, at least at first.

That said, my backpacking food bag often has two staples included – corn chips and cheese – and adding both of these to the second half of the meal made a dramatic difference, turning the meal from a base to tinker with to a trail dinner I’d definitely look forward to, although the small beef bits could either be provided in greater quantity or larger pieces; more presence of some type would be appreciated here.
Conclusion
Overall this new meal from Backpacker’s Pantry serves as a good base on the trail, and by adding different ingredients to fit your taste (spices, chips, hot sauce, cheese) you could definitely get a good trail meal going here. The price is a bit steep at $13 (at this price, more calories would be quite welcome), however a bit like taste, that is up to each one of us to decide.
You can find the Backpacker’s Pantry Fiesta Beef & Vegetable Bowl here at Amazon.com. Find more backpacking meal reviews here on the TrailGroove Blog.
Editor's Note: This review and installment of Backcountry Cuisine originally appeared in Issue 57 of TrailGroove Magazine. You can read the original article here.

One of the big 3 of backpacking gear choices (backpack, tent or shelter, and sleeping bag), the backpacking backpack you choose will have a profound impact on your comfort during the hiking day. Your pack will also be one of the more expensive items you’ll purchase, and to get the best pack within your budget a little research will be needed as there are a myriad of packs out there on the market.

In this guide, we’ll look at the best backpacking packs currently on the market based upon anticipated pack weight and packing category (ultralight, lightweight, heavy weight) along with some budget options as well. For the purposes of this guide, we’ll focus on performance, availability, reasonable price, and reasonable longevity for the intended purpose.
Best Ultralight Backpacking Backpacks
If you’re a weekend or overnight backpacker and / or manage to keep your total pack weight at around 25lbs or less, more ultralight backpacking packs may be worth a look. That said, if you do plan on going over this weight from time to time, and prefer a quiver of one, the next section in this article may be more appropriate to evaluate. For ultralight loads however, the frameless ULA Photon (35L total, 26 ounces, $220) from Ultralight Adventure Equipment is not the lightest pack out there, but is tough and has excellent comfort at these weights along with a livable pocket configuration. For a bit of a space and a carrying ability upgrade, look at the ULA Ohm (63L, 34 ounces, $280) as well as the ULA CDT (54L total, 27 ounces, $220).

The Zpacks Nero Ultra 38L (38L total space, 10 ounces, $250) offers an ultralight option for the lightest of ultralight packers, but in typical Zpacks style still has organization and features you need in a pack of this nature. The Super Nero Ultra 50L boosts the space up to 50L total, with a pack weight of just 12 ounces at $270. Both of these packs are suggested for 20lbs or less of total pack weight.
Another option is the MLD (Mountain Laurel Designs) Burn. This pack weighs in just over a pound and retails for $325 with 38L of storage. Featuring the tried and true combination of roll top main compartment, outside pocket, side pockets, and hipbelt pockets, the Burn is a nice option for ultralight overnights or beyond, so long as you are indeed focusing on the “ultra” of ultralight.
Note that if you’re moving toward going ultralight, your backpack is the last thing you should upgrade. There is no point in exceeding the comfort limits of a pack just to achieve a target weight number on a spreadsheet. Comfort is more important and it’s better to have a slightly heavier, but more comfortable backpack when loaded.
Summary: Best Ultralight Backpacking Backpacks
ULA Photon
ULA Ohm
ULA CDT
Zpacks Nero Ultra 38
Zpacks Super Nero Ultra 50
MLD Burn
Best Lightweight & Long Distance Backpacks
This is the bread and butter category of backpacking packs if you’re focused on lightweight backpacking, planning longer trips where saving weight is a priority, or if you're planning on thru-hiking a long trail. These are the packs that are just right most of the time, just fine (if a little under-loaded) for an overnight, and can be pushed for longer trips – although they may not be the most comfortable for hauling heavy loads the first few days out and until some of that consumable weight is reduced.

In this category and if your pack weight will be under 35-40lbs two packs from ULA Equipment have been a favorite choice of both mine and the backpacking community for years. My pick is the ULA Circuit (total volume 68L, 38.5 ounces, $300) that I’ve used on overnights up to 10 day trips and everything in between, although it’s definitely pushing it for trips over a week for me (whether you’d want to grab a pack from the next section in this article is a personal call).
If you’ll be packing a little heavier, trend towards longer trips, and / or like more space the ULA Catalyst (75L total, 44.4 ounces, $320) will make more sense. To save a little weight and for a more waterproof pack Ultra versions of both of these packs are available. These two packs feature my favorite storage configuration for the trail (as previously described): large roll top main compartment, large outside back pocket, side pockets, and hipbelt pockets. In either case, you simply cannot go wrong with these two venerable ULA packs if you’ll be carrying less than 40lbs fully loaded (I’ve had 50lbs in the Circuit, not suggested but the pack was no worse for wear). And as a quick note if you're looking for a great kid's pack look no further than the ULA Spark.

Another and newer pack to check out in this category is the Durston Kakwa 55 (around 60L total, about 31 ounces, $200-$260). This pack can be either had in the more affordable UltraGrid fabric option or Ultra 200X. Either way you get a pack with impressive organization at reasonable prices, and a pack that’s quite light but still can carry up to 45lbs.
A note on Ultra: while many manufacturers have begun using Ultra (100X / 200X / 400X) fabrics for packs, durability has been mixed on the original fabric and the jury is still out on newer, further reinforced X versions. That said an Ultra pack will get you a completely waterproof pack (except seams unless taped).
UltraGrid however, is a heavier denier nylon with a UHMWPE gridstop and a PU coating on the inside. This coating is rated at a 1500mm hydrostatic head – that’s as waterproof as some tents on the market. Fabrics similar to UltraGrid have proven themselves over the years. They will become more water-resistant in time, but these fabrics have held up very well to the trail – on or off trail for that matter – and have handled abrasion situations very well in my experience. Long story short, it is hard to beat a good gridstop fabric for packs.

Gridstop may not be the most waterproof, but I have gridstop packs with a decade+ of usage that are still quite water resistant and there are other ways to keep your backpacking gear dry. This would include using a pack liner or a large dry bag or two…or alternatively a trash compactor bag would be suggested in regards to pack waterproofing. Gridstops aren’t as trendy as laminates, but I fully expect 10 years or more of use out of packs made with these gridstop ~200+ denier nylon fabrics and there is a lot to be said for that.
Back to backpacks, for the lightest of the light, the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L (60L total storage, about 22 ounces, $400) is worth consideration – this pack is rated to carry 40lbs via a carbon fiber frame system with integrated back ventilation and as a bonus is also available in a women's specific version. The pack uses a lighter Ultra 100X to save weight – so this pack will be better for users that are willing to be a little careful with their gear in order to save the weight.
Summary: Best Lightweight & Long Distance Backpacks
ULA Circuit
ULA Catalyst
ULA Spark (for kids)
Durston Kakwa 55
Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60 & Women's
Best Load Hauler Backpacking Packs
Weight (of the pack itself...or weight carried within it for that matter) can quickly spiral out of control in this category, with some manufacturers offering packs here that can weigh well over 5lbs. In this category we have a few main venerable larger players, with one example being the Gregory Baltoro and the Gregory Deva series, in particular the Baltoro 75 liter (~80 ounces, $360) and the Baltoro 85 Pro (around 88 ounces, $400), with the women’s version being offered in the Deva 70 backpack (about 75 ounces, $360) as well as the larger Deva 80 Pro pack (~84 ounces, $400).
If you’re looking for a cushy mainstream get-it-done pack to haul large loads that can be on your doorstep a few days from now, the Baltoro and Deva packs have been a go-to for many years and are rated to carry up to 70lbs. Saving weight for the pack itself is not however a strong point here.

If you’ll be hauling a heavy load (long trips, lots of food and water, or extras like packrafts or camera gear) but still have a lightweight approach like me, you may need to look at smaller companies to fill this niche. Leaders in this category include the Superior Wilderness Designs Wolverine 95L (a 70L is also offered) pack as well as their 95L Big Wild pack (no large outside back pocket), also offered in a 70L version.
While color is usually not my primary concern when selecting a pack, these two SWD packs for better or worse are only made in Ultra 400X fabric which only comes in white or black – which I’d have to say, would be towards my last 2 choices when it comes to something like a pack or tent color. That said, these packs are rated to carry up over 50lbs for around $400 and will come in around 40 ounces for the pack itself, plus or minus depending on options. Be sure to check out their available add-ons if you want something like a hydration port or hipbelt pockets.

Hipbelt pockets offer convenience and storage for smaller items you'd like to keep immediately at hand.
A few other packs stand out here: Nunatak makes extraordinary gear and offers their Plateau Pack (around 40 ounces, $350) with an up to 75L capacity and capable of carrying 50+ lbs. This pack is more custom built and you’ll have to see if things like hydration ports or hipbelt pockets can be added. Be it Superior Wilderness Designs or Nunatak or even Seek Outside which we'll talk about to follow, plan in advance and buckle up for some wait times.

Seek Outside offers a couple packs worth checking out – although Seek Outside seems to lean towards the lightweight backcountry hunting crowd at times, some of their products can be used for lightweight backpacking like the 79L Divide 4800 2.0 ($505, 55 ounces). However, Seek Outside takes no custom requests so if you want something like a hydration port, you’re out of luck unless you want to start cutting and sewing yourself. The largest pack they offer with a hydration port is currently the Gila 3500 2.0 ($485, 51 ounces). The Gila isn't all that large of a pack (for a load hauler pack) with a 57 liter pack bag, but you can use the top strap and bottom straps to carry items on the outside and the pack features Seek Outside's load hauling frame.
Seek Outside’s frames are very uniquely rated for pretty much whatever weight you can physically carry, so if you’re looking to grab a single pack that can handle just about whatever you can throw at it in regards to pack weight, these are the packs that would be up to the task.
Summary: Best Load Hauler Backpacking Packs
Gregory Baltoro
Gregory Deva
SWD Big Wild 95
SWD Wolverine 95
Nunatak Plateau Pack
Seek Outside Divide 4800 2.0
Seek Outside Gila 3500 2.0
Best Budget Backpacking Packs
If you want to keep it under $200 (at least before shipping and tax) – which I would very much consider a budget range for a backpacking pack – the previously mentioned Durston Kakwa 55 in UltraGrid offers quite a bit of value in this category as long as you’re packing somewhat lightweight, with the REI Co-op Flash 55 (about 55 liters, just under 3lbs, $200) offering another option that’s worth ample consideration. The REI Co-op Flash has the bonus of being offered in both a men’s and women’s version and in my experience, this line has demonstrated good value and very acceptable performance. Another interesting sub-$200 option can be found in the Osprey Rook 65 backpack (men's) and the Osprey Renn 65L (women's). Designed to carry up to 40lbs, these packs offer 65 liters of space, basic features, and can be had for about $190 while weighing in just under 4lbs.

A pack from the REI Co-op Flash series.
It is also worth checking out the REI Co-op Outlet from time to time, as you can often find many packs or last year’s model that will be perfectly serviceable at a discount here. For a budget load hauler pack, this can be tough since these are typically the larger and more feature-packed (expensive) options. The aforementioned REI Co-op Outlet is a good place to start your search. That said the Kelty Asher 85 is also worth consideration – as you’d expect it’s an 85 liter pack that weighs in close to 6 pounds, but can carry a heavy load and retails for just under $200 full price.
With use but not abuse, I’ve found that a quality lightweight backpacking pack can last quite some time – a decade or so – of frequent use. For me they can be pushed beyond that on trips but they will be showing some wear and tear. A backpack is critical for comfort on the trail however, so with that 10 year mark in mind that I get out of quality packs, I’m not afraid to spend up a bit if it translates to durability and additional comfort on the trail.
Summary: Best Budget Backpacking Packs
Durston Kakwa UltraGrid
REI Co-op Flash 55
Osprey Rook 65
Osprey Renn 65
REI Co-op Outlet Packs
Kelty Asher 85
My Approach to Backpacking Packs and in Conclusion
If you like to keep your gear simple and want one pack to do it all, there are a few ways to go about your approach. You can pick a pack rated for the heaviest load you’ll ever carry, and while it may be a bit much for shorter trips it will work. Or you could go for a pack rated for the typical load you’ll carry, but your shoulders may be complaining at the start of longer trips. This can be done if you’re only rarely expecting to take these kinds of trips and saving the cash is more important than comfort (not my choice).

You could also pick a pack for overnights, another for most trips in the middle, and an even larger pack for load hauling and the longest excursions. For me, I like two packs: one do it all (from the lightweight and long distance category) and another load hauler for extended trips with extra gear. One advantage of this route (multiple packs) is that it spreads the wear out a bit and your packs will last longer.
For more information on how to choose a backpacking backpack, size, materials, and pack features and considerations, see our guide on How to Choose the Best Backpacking and Hiking Backpack. For a large selection of various backpacking packs that you can sort and filter by capacity and more, see this page at REI Co-op. For Related reading on the "big 3" see our articles, Best Backpacking Tents by Application and Budget as well as How to Choose the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag.