Backpacks are the ones that store almost all your camping gear and items, choosing the right type of product will make your travel so much easier. The Australian market is filled with different types of camping backpacks, which is why you should make the right choice when purchasing. To help you decide, we’ve listed down all the factors to consider and we’ve narrowed down your search to 10 of the best camping backpacks in Australia right now.
Our Picks For Best Camping Backpacks
10 Best Camping Backpacks
- Osprey Packs Stratos 50 Men’s Backpacking Backpack
- Gregory Mountain Products Jade 53 Liter Women’s Overnight Hiking Backpack
- TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack
- AmazonBasics Internal Frame Hiking Backpack with Rainfly, 75 L, Black
- Naturehike 65L Hiking Backpack for Outdoor Camping Travel Trekking Rucksack for Men
- G4Free Hiking Backpack 50L Waterproof Daypack Outdoor Camping Climbing Backpack with Rain Cover for Women Men
- Loowoko Hiking Backpack 50L Travel Daypack Waterproof with Rain Cover for Climbing Camping Mountaineering
- 40L Hiking Backpack, Lightweight Water Resistant Backpack Durable Travel Daypack for Outdoor Camping Trekking Backpacking
- Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack
- The North Face Borealis Backpack
Camping Backpacks: The Buyer’s Guide
Here’s a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you make the smart choice when purchasing the best camping backpack for your trip.
The Different Types of Camping Backpacks
Daypacks
Daypacks are typically the type of bags used to carry essential gears for a day’s travel. These usually have a capacity range of around 10 to 40 liters. They are made to be lightweight and only big enough to pack a few items needed for a day’s hike or trip.
Hiking backpacks
Hiking backpacks are the most common type of daypacks. They are supposed to be lightweight and have a well-ventilated back panel. Most often, they have trekking pole holders and water reservoir pockets.
Because weight and size are paramount in hiking, these bags only have an ideal weight capacity of 20-30 liters. This is why we always have to keep in mind the weight of the gears and items we pack for a hiking trail.
There are three types of hiking backpacks: frameless backpacks, internal-frame backpacks, and external-frame backpacks. Here is a short description of each:
Frameless backpacks
Frameless backpacks do not have the aluminum rod or frame sheet that usually shapes the backpacks, which makes them extremely lightweight. One of the downsides to this type of hiking backpack is that you can’t carry heavy loads or more than its maximum volume capacity, because it won’t have the frame support. Frameless backpacks are suited for trips like day hikes.
Internal-frame backpacks
Internal-frame backpacks are the most commonly used type of hiking backpack. This type of hiking backpack has a frame sheet of either plastic or aluminum rods. This prevents the bag from collapsing and can withstand a heavier weight compared to the frameless type—light to mid-weight.
External-frame backpacks
External-frame backpacks are rarely used nowadays. This was the old way of carrying packs on the backs. It usually has a robust, completely rigid aluminum frame and a harness to support a heavy load. Its key advantage is that you can customize the bag for better weight distribution but because of its built, it’ll be heavy to carry and is not recommended for children.
Large Overnight Backpacks
Large overnight backpacks are suited for grander travels. It can store and hold more stuff for extended trips. These usually carry a volume range of 40 to 85 liters. When traveling for more than 7 days, you may want to consider camping backs with at least 65l or more volume capacity.
There are also hiking/trekking backpacks that come in large overnight variants to cater to more-than-a-day hiking trails. One of the key advantages of this type of backpack is that it offers more compartments and storage pockets.
Hydration packs
Hydration packs are designed to eliminate the need to pause or slow down just to take a sip of water. All you have to do is to take the drinking tube that is connected to the bag.
These come in minimalist designs to keep them ultralightweight. These also have a snug-fit structure to minimize movement Hydration packs can only hold around 2 to 10 liters of volume and 1 to 3 liters of it will be used as the water reservoir.
Hydration packs are used by runners, cyclists, and hikers. Hiking hydration packs tend to be bigger to accommodate other essential items like food, clothes, and other camping gear.
Dry packs (waterproof backpacks)
Dry packs are fully waterproof backpacks. It won’t need a rain cover as most often, the materials used are durable PVC or TPU/PU. If you’re expecting rain or will cross waters during your travel, this type of camping backpack may suit you best. Even if it gets submerge in water, you are assured that your items inside will stay completely dry.
Its product variants will have a range capacity of 15 to 120 liters. And the pockets will be found inside of the bag instead. It will not have external zippers as this will likely cause water leakage inside. Alternatively, you will see a belt lock to open and close the bag.
Explaining the Terminology
Volume
This is the weight capacity that a certain backpack can hold and store.
Rain cover
This is a separate layer that covers the bag and protects it from getting wet.
Waist belt
This is a strap found on the lower part of the bag that needs to be secure around the waist. This is made to help manage the weight and to firmly secure the bag on your back while hiking.
Compression straps
These are the webbing straps that you typically see in backpacks. They are placed there to hold bigger items with a lot of weight that can’t be stuffed inside the bag, like sleeping bags or tents.
Trekking pole holders
Hikers and mountaineers usually bring trekking poles to help them on the trail. These strengthen their stability when hiking on rough terrains. Some hiking backpacks usually offer extra loops to store and hold the trekking poles.
Bladder/ Hydration bladder
This is the term used to hold the water inside the back. Bottles are typically hard, heavy and will take up space. A hydration bladder, on the other hand, is like an IV bag, so they take up the shape of the bag and will not be as heavy even when there’s already water inside.
Back panel
This is the area of the bag where it touches or hugs the back of the person. For camping backpacks, the design and structure of the back panels are important because this will majorly affect the comfortability of the bag carrier. Most manufacturers assure that the back panels are well ventilated to avoid heat, which will cause the users to sweat a lot. Some will secure comfortable padding in back panels for better experience when carrying the weight and volume of the back.
Hydration-ready
Some bags will be hydration-ready. That will not immediately mean that the backpack has an installed bladder and tube inside the bag. Oftentimes, this means that the manufacturer has infused a system in the bag that will make it easier to place and install a hydration pack and there’s already a path to place the tube, which is usually along one of the shoulder straps.
Camping Backpacks: Main Considerations
Volume, Weight, and Size
These three factors are interrelated. The weight and the volume of the bag are two different factors. The volume will be the maximum weight capacity of the bag, while the weight is the heaviness of the bag itself.
The weight of the bag will depend on the size, added features (like extra straps, added pocket, etc.), and the material used. The size will differ as well, depending on the purpose. Regular hiking backpacks are typically smaller than large overnight backpacks.
Basically, the bigger the bag, the heavier the weight, but you’ll have more volume. The more the volume, the more stuff you can store inside.
When looking for the perfect camping backpack, identify first the type of trip you are going to, then decide on the size of the backpack and the amount of stuff you’ll need, and the maximum weight that you can comfortably carry.
Trip Duration
To narrow down your search, you’ll need to identify first how long the trip is. Camping backpacks can also be categorized in trip durations. This matters because of the volume you’ll need. There are three general types of backpacks depending on the trip duration: weekend, multi-day, and extended trip.
The trip duration for “weekend” is around 1 to 3 nights. You may only need a maximum of 50 liters to keep your travel light. A “multi-day” trip is around 3 to 5 nights and you’ll need at least 50 to 80 liters. Extended trips, on the other hand, are longer travels that will last more than 5 nights and will surely need more than 70 liters for packs.
The longer your trip is the bigger the backpack you’ll need.
Features
Backpack features are considered one of the main considerations in this buyer’s guide because of the level of convenience it’ll offer to you. When reviewing backpack features, make sure to check the backpack frame, back panel ventilation, pockets, and added/specialized compartments, and the availability of a rain cover.
Camping Backpacks: Other Considerations
Backpack fit
The straps on backpacks are usually adjustable but only to a certain extent. Make sure to consider both your torso size and that of the camping backpack. If you’re a small person and you’ll opt for a bigger backpack make sure that the shoulder and waist straps will fit your body frame comfortably. If the straps are still loose on you despite being tightened completely, you’ll have difficulties when hiking.
Price
A high-quality camping backpack can last you for many years and for many future travels, so it may be a good idea to invest in one. But there are budget packs that offer excellent durability, but may not be as great as the premium ones. The budget you have in mind will be a deciding factor when purchasing.
The 10 Best Camping Backpacks Available in Australia
#1. Osprey Packs Stratos 50 Men's Backpacking Backpack
Best Hiking Backpack with Internal Frame for Men
- Maximum Dimensions: (cm) 70 (l) X 36 (w) X 38 (d)
- Weight: 1.67 (m/l) Kg
Weight: 1.61 kg | Dimensions: 25.6H X 14.2W X 15D IN. | Volume: 47 – 50 L
Standout features: Airspeed suspension, integrated raincover, seamless hipbelt interface
The Osprey Packs Stratos 50 Men's Backpacking Backpack comes in two variant sizes: S/M and M/L. The bigger variant has a maximum weight of 50 L, while the S/M size has 47 L. The weight and dimensions of the two are not too far apart.
One of its key advantages is its overall ventilation system. The mesh integration is not limited to the back panel but as well as on the inner straps, both the shoulder and the waist. It is paired with a LightWire allow frame for air space optimization pack balance and ventilation.
The rain cover is integrated into the bag so you won’t have to worry about buying it separately or even losing it. It also comes with an ErgoPull hipbelt that has a seamless lumbar design for a perfect body wrap.
#2. Gregory Mountain Products Jade 53 Liter Women's Overnight Hiking Backpack
Best Hiking Backpack for Women
- Free float suspension: low profile open air ventilation, moisture wicking mesh and custom torso length
- Raincover: easy access rain cover keeps your gear Dry even when that storm rolls out of nowhere
- 3D comfort cradle system: an ultra comfortable, body hugging fit
Weight:1.55kg | Packed Dimensions: 27″ x 13.25″ x 12″ | Volume: 53 L
Standout features: Free float suspension, body-hugging design
The Gregory Mountain Products Jade 53 Liter Women's Overnight Hiking Backpack is made for female hikers’ extreme convenience. The bag itself is designed with a FreeFloat Dynamic Suspension. The flex panels are built to allow the hipbelt to pivot and move along with the natural movement of the body. The structure of the has a 3D comfort cradle system for a comfortable body-hugging fit.
It comes with a lot of extra storage with easy access. First, we have the U-Zip Access for easy unloading and loading of your stuff. The hipbelt has oversized pockets to comfortably store your smartphones or point-and-shoot cameras. It also has a removable divider at bottom that serves as a sleeping bag compartment.
There’s an adjustable loop and upper shock lock for your trekking pole or ice axe. It has an easy access hydration port as well, so you won’t need to stop and take a sip of water when hiking. This camping backpack is indeed feature-filled.
#3. TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack
Best Heavy-Duty Camping Backpack
- Durable open-cell foam lumbar pad and molded channels provide maximum comfort and airflow
- Front and top bungee stash storage for jackets, shoes, rope, or sleeping pad
- Multi-position torso adjustment fits wide range of body sizes
Weight: 4.5 lbs. | Dimensions: 30″ x 17″ x 12″ | Volume: 55 L
Standout features: Weather-guard zippers, adjustable torso and waist straps
The [amazon link=”B000F34ZKS” title=”TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack”/] is a reliable camping buddy for rough conditions. The material alone is highly-durable. It makes use of a sturdy 600D ripstop and Oxford Canvas shell. You’ll know this bag will last you for a long time.
One of its noteworthy features is its hydration-ready compartment that can hold a 3-liter pack (bladder). However, the bladder is not included in the pack so you will have to buy a separate pack. To add, it also has a separate sleeping bag compartment for easy access.
Side pockets are all equipped with large size weather-guard zippers for extra convenience and less worry about any water leakage. It comes with extra compression straps as well for you to securely attach your other large camping items like a sleeping pad or tent.
#4. This product is currently unavailable
Budget-Friendly Large Camping Backpack
No products found.
Weight: 2.31 kg | Dimensions: 46.99 x 73.66 x 20.32 cm | Volume: 75 L
Standout features: Extensive storage pockets, multi-directional compression straps
The This product is currently unavailable is made with a water-repellent exterior coating and it still comes with an integrated rainfly/raincover. It’s definitely for an extended trip as it has a maximum volume of 75 L—5L is for the extension collar.
One of its key features is the abundance of pockets and compartments. You’ll have storage for everything and even more. Don’t worry about the larger gears as it comes with multi-directional straps. Shoulder straps are adjustable and equipped with an open-cell foam lumbar pad and moulded channels for lower-back support and airflow.
It comes with all these great and extensive features but carries a budget-friendly price tag.
#5. Naturehike 65L Hiking Backpack for Outdoor Camping
Best Camping Backpack for Mountaineering
- [Large-capacity mountaineering rucksack, 60L+5L] This mountaineering rucksack has pockets at various positions for comfort when...
- [Ergonomic design and comfortable trekking backpack] The ergonomically designed back pad and shoulder cushion reduce the bite into the...
- [Multi-functionality/practicality Zack] With a compression strap on the top and both sides of the bag, it is possible to bind things...
Weight: 1.37 kg | Dimensions: 62.79 x 35.79 x 17.3 cm| Volume: 65L
Standout features: Ergonomically designed, load capacity of 15 kg
The Naturehike 65L Hiking Backpack for Outdoor Camping is great for when thinking of mountaineering. It is ergonomically designed to fit your back curve so it won’t feel uncomfortable or become wobbly when climbing mountains. It has an aluminum alloy frame for better back support which supports the strength of the back plate. It also has a well-padded waist cushion for more comfort.
The bag is also designed to distribute the weight of the load to the hip bone (through the padded hipbelt). Loading up the maximum 15 kg won’t feel too hard and heavy on the back.
Unlike the others in this list, it doesn’t come with extensive pockets, but instead, it has multiple pouches infused. What’s great with pouches is that it is not as size-restrictive as zipper pockets. The side pouch can hold two 700ml bottled waters and on the front, it has a big netted pouch called the “Kangaroo Warehouse” where you can store large items that will no longer fit inside like slippers.
#6. G4Free Hiking Backpack 50L Waterproof Daypack
Highly Innovative Daypack
- 【 Durable Material】 The material of 50L hiking backpack is Waterproof Nylon, high quality SBS pull string zippers, good...
- 【Many Pockets】The travel backpack is so large and roomy. One Large Front Zipper Pocket for quick access and one large deep main...
- 【Hydration Bladder Compartment】There is a compartment in the main pocket designed for putting Hydration Bladder, keeping you...
Weight: 1.13 kg | Dimensions: 34.8 x 22.86 x 57.91 cm | Volume: 50 L
Standout features: Built-in USB port, separate compartment for dirty clothes, Hydration-ready
The G4Free Hiking Backpack 50L Waterproof Daypack is offering so many things in a compact-looking daypack. At first glance, you’d think this is just your regular standard daypack, but it is filled with so many features.
First, it has a built-in USB port so you can conveniently use your phone while charging during your hike. One of the shoulder straps is equipped with hydration tube clips for a convenient drinking tube. Meanwhile, the other strap has an integrated compass. The hipbelt has pockets as well for easy access and storage of phone and other items.
Another noteworthy feature is its separate compartment for dirty clothes or shoes. On the inside, the space is compartmentalized. The only downside to this is that you are a bit restricted on what to put inside, as it may not fit in any of the compartments.
#7. Loowoko Hiking Backpack 50L
Best Daypack for Extreme Conditions
- 8 ADJUSTABLE STRAPS- For tying up your pack or hanging sleeping bag, mat, hammock, tripod, and other gears. mesh side pockets,to keep...
- Our backpack fit women and men in 5'-6'5" (90lb-250lbs) and It meet size requirements for most airlines, enough room for 3 or 4 days...
- Comfortable Daypack: Breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help relieve the stress from your shoulder. Widened...
Weight: 1.01 kg | Dimensions: 59.99 x 30 x 7.11 cm | Volume: 50 L
Standout features: Waterproof, 8 adjustable compression straps
The Loowoko Hiking Backpack 50L is a great choice when hiking or climbing mountains in heavy or extreme weather conditions. The material of the bag is of high-quality—rip-stop polyester. It’s already waterproof but it still comes with an equally durable rain cover for heavy rains.
With its 8 adjustable compression straps, you can attach a lot of oversized camping gears like a sleeping bag, tent, or even both. It has separate loop handles for two trekking poles. There’s a lot of external pockets as well and even a side mesh pouch for your water bottle. It also has a separate compartment for shoes.
#8. This product is currently unavailable
Best Camping Bag for Beginners
No products found.
Weight: 570 g | Dimensions: 33 x 24 x 48 cm | Volume: 40 L
Standout features: ultra-lightweight, waterproof, scratch and tear-resistant
If you’re new to the camping or backpacking scene, you may want to start off with the This product is currently unavailable. It’s extremely lightweight and it provides for all the essential features needed when going on an outdoor trip. It has a beginner’s volume of 40 L, so it’s best used for hiking or an overnight trip.
There’s a lot of compartments, external and inside the bag. Outside the bag, you have a vertically-zipped pocket where you can conveniently place small items like your keys, a lighter, or your wallet. You have two side mesh pouches, where you can store your water bottle and other camping gear. It has a trekking pole attachment as well.
For its compression strap, it’s placed at the bottom of the back. The only downside to it is that when you place a sleeping bag there or even a packed tent, the position seems unnatural that it will likely bounce against the back of your thighs.
#9. Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack
Most Minimal Hiking Backpack
- Features: Adjustable Torso Length
- Features: Airscape Mesh Covered Accordion Foam Backpanel
- Features: External Hydration Access
Weight: 0.92kg. | Dimensions: 45.72 x 27.94 x 27.94 cm| Volume: 22 L
Standout features: lightweight, close-to-body back panel, harness, and hipbelt
The Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack is the ultimate bag for day hikers, cyclists, or even runners. It’s designed to hug your body completely but comfortable so it won’t be wobbly when you move. It’s extremely lightweight and can only carry a maximum load of 20 lbs. (22 L).
Because of its purpose, it doesn’t offer many pockets or compartments compared to the others on this list, but it did squeeze in a side pouch where you can store your phone or a small water bottle. It has a LidLock bike helmet attachment and an external hydration sleeve.
#10. The North Face Borealis Backpack
Most Basic Camping Backpack
- Dedicated, highly protective laptop compartment
- Large main compartment for books and binders
- Front compartment with internal organisation has an extra padded tablet sleeve, a pendolier and additional secure-zip pockets
Weight: 1220 g | Dimensions: 19.75″ X 13.25″ X 9.75″ | Volume: 28 L
Standout feature: multiple big and well-padded compartments
The The North Face Borealis Backpack is a very basic camping back. It doesn’t offer much for rigid camping travels but it is a highly-reliable backpack for overnight trips. One of its noteworthy features is its separate zipper compartment for your 15” laptop. The second partition is a free space for your clothes, while the third one is compartmentalized so that you can store your smaller items in an organized manner. You can place your phone, charger, and other gadgets in there without having to dig them up later.
It has two side pouches as well for your water bottle. And the waist belt is removable. It is a heavy-duty backpack but it’ll not be suitable for longer than a weekend trip.