15 Best Hiking Backpacks in Australia (2026 Buying Guide)

The best hiking backpack in Australia depends primarily on how long you’ll be hiking, how much gear you’ll be carrying and most importantly, how the pack fits and feels. In summary, for short day hikes, a 15-25L pack is usually enough, while multi-day hikers will typically need 50-65L. Below I’ve selected 15 backpacks I’d consider across everything from day walks to extended expeditions.

Hi, I’m Lynne, a Gear Specialist at the Wild Earth Burleigh Heads Store and an avid hiker. In this article, I share the basics of how to choose the right pack for your adventure (which is a bit of a minefield really). I do a lot of hiking and travelling, from local day walks in Queensland, to multiday hikes across Australia, hut-to-hut's as well as Camino-style routes from places like Nepal to Spain. I use different packs depending on the adventures and the lessons I've learnt over the years have shown me that the lightest or most expensive backpack isn’t necessarily the best option for you.
 

How We Chose the Best Hiking Backpacks

These backpacks were chosen based on fit, carrying comfort, weight, capacity, harness design and how well each one suits different types of adventure hiking. There's no one pack that's perfect for everyone so I’ve tried to include options for different bodies, trip lengths and loads.

You can watch my full video for How to Fit Your Backpack here.

 

A photo of me preparing gear with some of the Burleigh Wild Earth team for a multi-day hike

 

How to Choose a Backpack

Choosing the best hiking backpack comes down to three things:

• What you’re carrying (weight, size wise)
• How long you’re hiking for and the type of terrain you expect
• How well the pack fits your body

Don’t choose a hiking backpack based on size alone. When I’m helping a customer choose a backpack, I workshop these three things before doing anything else.

1. Capacity (how many liters do they really need for this trip?)
2. Pack size (does the pack come in sizes and which version suits them best?)
3. Torso fit (Can the back system be adjusted so the pack sits correctly on them?)

Sometimes you need to try four, five or even six packs before you find the one for you!

 

Hiking the Thorsborne Trail

 

Backpacking Size Guide

Here’s some useful hiking backpack size guides, I tend to recommend:

• 15-25L for shorter day hikes
• 25-35L for longer days
• 35-50L for lightweight overnighters
• 50-65L for multi-day hiking
• 65L+ when I need to carry bulky gear, food or shelter

Below are the hiking backpacks I’d consider for each type of adventure.

 

Quick comparison table of Top picks

*scroll across if you're on mobile

Best Hiking Day Packs for Short Day Hikes (15L-25L)

Osprey Daylite Plus Lightweight Daypack

The Osprey Daylite Plus is one of our most loved day packs. It’s a fantastic everyday hiking pack that can also be used for travel and commute (a true all-rounder!). It’s lightweight, comfortable and extremely functional, with the well-thought-out storage making it easy to organise yourself for a day on the trail.

Why I like it: This pack is an absolute crowd pleaser. It’s has a simple and sleek design that balances comfort, storage and organisation with everyday functionality.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 585 g
• Volume: 20 liters
• Dimensions: 48 x 28 x 24 cm
• Back panel: Mesh-covered die-cut foam
• Hipbelt: Removable webbing hipbelt
• Hydration compatible: Yes

Best for: Day hikes, travel and everyday use.

Not ideal for: Heavier loads or longer hikes where you need a more supportive frame and substantial hipbelt.

Shop Osprey Daylite Plus Lightweight Daypack

 

Matador Waterproof 18L Packable Daypack

Matador is a brand synonymous with quality and thoughtful packable design. The Matador Waterproof 18L Packable Daypack weighs in at only 284 grams, it’s heavier than the Matador FreeRain but still really light for an 18-litre pack.

Why I like it: This is a packable backpack that doesn’t feel too flimsy, it’s got good weather protection and a stack of useful features. It won’t replace a structured pack for carrying heavier loads, but for lightweight day hikes and travel days it’s fantastic.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 284 g
• Volume: 18 liters
• Dimensions: 46 x 25 x 19 cm
• Material: 100D bluesign® recycled nylon, PFAS-free
• Closure: Roll-top waterproof main compartment

Best for: Lightweight day hikes and travel where you need a simple and packable backpack.

Not ideal for: Carrying heavier loads or hikers who prefer a structured frame, substantial hipbelt and lots of padding.

Shop Matador Waterproof 18L Packable Daypack

 

 

Rab Nitron 25L Lightweight Hiking Daypack

The Rab Nitron 25L is built for hikers who like a streamlined design. At 640 grams, it’s light enough for fast day hikes and technical trails, while still giving you a good amount of space for layers, water and the usual day-hike essentials.

One of the highlights is a close-fitting vest-style harness with flexible Air Contour back system. This is designed to keep the pack stable and reduce bounce over rough terrain. The design also features plenty of easy-access storage, including pockets on the hip belt as well as the shoulder straps that are perfect for trail snacks, mobiles or water bottles.

Why I like it: This looks and feels more like a running vest than a traditional hiking backpack which make it a strong option for fast hikers who want stability and easy access to gear without carrying unnecessary bulk.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 640 g
• Volume: 25 liters
• Dimensions: S: 50 x 25 x 20 cm; M: 54 x 25 x 20 cm
• Back length: S: 46 cm; M: 48 cm

Best for: Fast day hikes, technical trails and hikers who prefer a close-fitting, low-bounce pack.

Not ideal for: Heavier loads or anyone who prefers a more traditional padded harness and structured hiking pack.

Shop Rab Nitron 25L Lightweight Hiking Daypack

 

 

Deuter Speed Lite Pro 25 Unisex Hiking Backpack

If you’re taking on more serious adventures The Deuter Speed Lite Pro is a great option. Time and again out community mentions the fit of this pack. It features Deuter’s LiteAir back system, with wide ventilated shoulder straps, flexible hip fins and compression straps that keep the pack sitting close to your body which (this helps reduce bounce on the trail when you’re over uneven ground).

This pack comes in a variety of sizes and fit, including the women’s SL Deuter Speed Lite Pro 28 and 23 SL Hiking Backpacks in the Lotus/Mystic colour way. As well as the mens Deuter Speed Lite Pro 30 Unisex Hiking Backpack in Mineral/Grove.

Why I like it: The backpack manages to keep it light without stripping away the features you actually want on a day hike while still having well-thought-out storage and organisation

Key Specs:

• Weight: 680 g
• Volume: 25 liters
• Dimensions: 54 / 28 / 20 (L x W x D) cm

Best for: Fastpacking and hiking on rugged trails.

Not ideal for: Heavy loads (Recommended load: 6 to 10 kg max) or fans of structure and thick padding.

Shop Deuter Speed Lite Pro 25 Unisex Hiking Backpack

 

 

Best Hiking Backpack for Overnight Hikes (35–50L)

 

Osprey Talon 33L Men's Hiking Backpack

Despite the Osprey Talon 33 being 'for men', this is my favourite day hiking backpack (the female version is the Osprey Tempest 33L Backpack but I still prefer the fit of the mens on me). It's made for bigger days when you still want to move quickly. Its close-fitting AirScape back panel and wrap around harness and hipbelt keep the pack stable, making it well suited to more demanding terrain.

Why I like it: It gives you more capacity than a standard daypack without feeling cumbersome, with a streamlined fit and the fact that you can attach technical gear to the external points making it particularly versatile for active mountain days.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 1.26 kg
• Volume: 33 liters
• Dimensions: 68 x 30 x 31 cm
• Back panel: AirScape
• Recommended load: 4.5-13.6 kg
• Hydration compatible: Yes

Best for: Technical day hikes, demanding trails and lightweight overnight adventures.

Not ideal for: Hikers wanting maximum ventilation from a suspended-mesh back system.

Shop Osprey Talon 33L Men's Hiking Backpack

 

 

Gregory Zulu 30L Men's Hiking Backpack

The Gregory Zulu 30 is a comfy choice for longer day hikes when you need to carry a little more gear (plus the odd overnighter). It’s designed with sturdy FreeFloat suspension and a dynamic hipbelt that’s designed to move with your body, while the adjustable torso helps you personalise and dial in the fit.

Why I like it: The combination of supportive load transfer, ventilation and a flexible hipbelt makes it particularly comfortable when your daypack is starting to feel more like a small hiking pack.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 1.38-1.42 kg
• Volume: 28-30 liters, depending on size
• Adjustable torso: Yes
• Maximum carry weight: 18.1 kg
• Hydration compatible: Yes

Best for: Long day hikes and carrying heavier day-hike loads.

Not ideal for: Hikers prioritising the lowest possible pack weight.

Shop Gregory Zulu 30L Men's Hiking Backpack

Deuter Futura 32L Unisex Hiking Backpack

The Deuter Futura 32 shines during long hikes in warmer conditions because of its Airflow fouced design. At 32 liters, the design leaves plenty of room for extra layers, food and gear without stepping up to a bulky multi-day pack.

Why I like it: The Aircomfort system is supported by a spring-steel frame, padded hip belt that help distribute weight while keeping your back noticeably more ventilated.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 1.35 kg
• Volume: 32 liters
• Dimensions: 66 x 30 x 23 cm
• Recommended load: 4-8 kg
• Rain cover: Included

Best for: Long day hikes, warm conditions and lightweight overnight trips.

Not ideal for: Fast-and-light hikers looking for a minimalist pack.

Shop Deuter Futura 32L Unisex Hiking Backpack

 

Best Hiking Backpack for Ultralight Thru-Hikers 40L-70L

Aarn Mountain Magic Pro 50L Ultralight Hiking Backpack

Aarn backpacks are designed in New Zealand with a focus on ultralight comfort. The Aarn Mountain Magic Pro 50L is a really interesting option for thru-hikers who want to keep pack weight low without giving up too much comfort. The pack itself weighs 810-910 grams depending on harness size, and comes with Aarn’s 7L Balance Pockets, which sit at the front to help balance the weight and keep your centre of gravity more neutral.

Why I like it: Aarn’s U-Flow harness design allows for adjustment to make the perfect fit. It feels less stripped-back than many ultralight packs and the load balancing front pockets matter just as much as saving weight.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 810-910 g, plus 256 g Balance Pockets
• Volume: 50 liters total
• Main pack: 43 liters
• Balance Pockets: 7 liters
• Maximum load: 15 kg
• Fabric: 70D Robic Gridstop with UHMWPE

Best for: Thru-hiking and lightweight multi-day trips where comfort and balanced load carrying are priorities.

Not ideal for: Ultralight hikers who want the absolute simplest, most stripped-back pack possible.

Shop Aarn Mountain Magic Pro 50L Ultralight Hiking Backpack

 

 

Hyperlite Southwest 55L Hiking Backpack

The Hyperlite Southwest 55L is a favourite with some of our ultralight ambassadors including Hamish Lockett. This pack allows you to travel light while still being able to handle rough terrain and long distances. It only weighs 876 grams and although a minimalist design, it offers a generous 55-litre internal capacity without pushing into traditional multi-day backpack weights.

Its standout feature is the Dyneema fabric (the hottest material in Ultralight), which combines low weight with excellent durablity..

Why I like it: It gives you the low weight thru-hikers need along with enough structure, capacity and durability for sections between resupply points and tougher trail conditions.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 876 g
• Volume: 55 liters
• External volume: 13.4 liters
• Load capacity: Up to 18 kg
• Material: Dyneema Woven Composite 3.9
• Frame: Two removable aluminium stays

Best for: Thru-hiking, long multi-day walks, dense bush and tough terrain where minimal weight and maximum durability matter.

Not ideal for: Hikers who prefer lots of padding, compartments and a highly structured traditional backpack.

Shop Hyperlite Southwest 55L Hiking Backpack

 

 

Best Hiking Backpacks for Hikes with Heavy Loads (65L+)

Anything beyond 50-60L is typically for a multi-day hike where you need to carry everything like the Overland Track, where there's a lot of food, gas, cooker etc. So, sometimes 60 and above is a better number for for that sort of hiking.

 

Osprey Aura AG 65L Women’s Hiking Backpack

The Osprey Aura AG 65 is a women’s-specific pack built for heavier multi-day loads, with Osprey’s AntiGravity suspension wrapping around the back and hips to help distribute weight more comfortably. The adjustable harness and Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt also make it easy to fine-tune the fit, which is especially useful when you’re carrying close to its upper load range.

Why I like it: The combination of a full peripheral frame, suspended mesh back and highly adjustable hipbelt gives it excellent support and ventilation without feeling overly rigid.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 2.03-2.09 kg
• Volume: 62-65 liters, depending on size
• Load range: 14-18 kg
• Adjustable torso: Yes
• Rain cover: Included

Best for: Women carrying heavier loads on multi-day hikes and week-long backpacking trips.

Not ideal for: Lightweight hikers who want to keep the pack itself as light as possible.

Shop Osprey Aura AG 65L Women’s Hiking Backpack

 

 

One Planet Tussock 60L Hiking Backpack

Australian brand One Planet make quality backpacks and this one’s designed especially with multi-day trips and heavier loads in mind. It combines a supportive harness and aluminium frame with durable construction, giving you a good structure for long days on the trail without making the pack feel overly stiff.

Why I like it: The Tussock is designed with Aussie landscapes and hiking in mind. It’s all about dependable load carrying and durability. The structured harness and hipbelt help transfer weight efficiently, while the simple top-loading design keeps the pack practical and easy to manage on longer trips.

Key Specs:

• Volume: 65 liters
• Frame: Aluminium
• Material: Durable Diamondloc fabric
• Hydration compatible: Yes
• Construction: Made in Australia

Best for: Multi-day bushwalking, trekking and carrying larger loads over longer distances.

Not ideal for: Hikers who want a like a pack with lots of zip access and built-in organisation.

Shop One Planet Tussock 60L Hiking Backpack

 

 

Gregory Baltoro 65L Men's Hiking Backpack

The Gregory Baltoro 65 is built for carrying serious weight over multiple days. Its FreeFloat A3 suspension, auto-rotating shoulder harness and structured alloy frame are designed to keep heavier loads stable while still allowing good mobility on the trail.

Why I like it: This is the pack to look at when comfort under weight matters more than keeping your pack itself light. The supportive frame, adjustable fit and substantial hipbelt are all geared towards transferring a heavy load efficiently.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 2.23 kg (M)
• Volume: 65 liters
• Maximum carry weight: 27.2 kg
• Frame: Perimeter alloy frame
• Rain cover: Included

Best for: Multi-day hikes, trekking and carrying heavier loads.

Not ideal for: Lightweight hikers who enjoy custom fit, load lifters and want to keep their overall pack weight down.

Shop Gregory Baltoro 65L Men's Hiking Backpack

 

 

Osprey Rook 65L Men's Hiking Backpack

The Osprey Rook 65 has been a firm ambassador favourite over the years. At 1.6 kg, it’s lighter than many traditional heavy-load packs, but the LightWire frame and adjustable AirSpeed suspension make you feel supported and allow good ventilation for days on the trail.

Why I like it: You get the capacity and support needed for bigger trips without complex design. It’s simple, but well thought out design. The adjustable torso, sleeping bag compartment, integrated rain cover and straightforward storage make it especially approachable if you’re moving into multi-day hiking.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 1.6 kg
• Volume: 65 liters
• Load range: 14-18 kg
• Back panel: AirSpeed suspended mesh
• Frame: LightWire peripheral frame
• Rain cover: Included

Best for: Multi-day hiking and hikers wanting a simpler, lighter 65L pack. Good for beginners too.

Not ideal for: Minimalist hikers or very heavy loads above its recommended 14-18 kg carry range

Shop Osprey Rook 65L Men's Hiking Backpack

 

 

Best for Backpacks For Bigger Expeditions or Winter Adventures (65L+)

 

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 70L Hiking Backpack

Hyperlite is a brand synonymous with Ultralight backpacking gear. The Hyperlite Southwest 70 is the outlier in this section because it gives you expedition-level capacity without the weight of a traditional large hiking pack. It’s aimed at experienced hikers who need plenty of room for food, winter gear or long stretches between resupply points, but still want to keep their base weight incredibly low.

Why I like it: The big advantage of this pack is the combination of thoughtful design and ultralight construction using Dyneema fabric. This allows for the capacity needed for extended trips without all the extra padding, compartments and hardware found on heavier expedition packs.

Key Specs:

• Volume: 70 liters
• Construction: Dyneema Composite Fabric
• Closure: Roll-top
• External storage: Solid front and side pockets
• Frame: Internal stays

Best for: Experienced ultralight hikers, long food carries and high-volume thru-hiking setups.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious backpackers, beginners or hikers who want maximum padding, ventilation and a highly structured traditional harness.

Shop Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 70L Hiking Backpack

 

 

Osprey Aether Plus 70L Men's Hiking Backpack

The Osprey Aether Plus 70 is built for big trips where your pack is carrying serious weight. With a load range of 14-27 kg, it’s designed for week-long hikes, winter adventures and gear-heavy expeditions where support matters more than keeping the pack itself light.

Why I like it: The Custom Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt and shoulder straps let you customise the pack for the perfect fit, while the suspension helps manage heavier loads comfortably. The removable top lid also converts into a handy daypack, which is ideal for side trips away from camp.

Key Specs:

• Weight: 2.55-2.8 kg
• Volume: 68-70 liters
• Load range: 14-27 kg
• Adjustable fit: Yes
• Rain cover: Included
• Top lid converts to daypack: Yes

Best for: Extended treks, winter hiking and expeditions with heavy or bulky gear.

Not ideal for: Lightweight hikers or trips where you’re carrying a small, dialled-in load.

Shop Osprey Aether Plus 70L Men's Hiking Backpack

 

 

Final Thoughts

A comfortable pack, comfortable shoes and socks are just the key to any hike because if they fail, you're going to have a miserable trip so take the time to try things, to test and learn to find the perfect gear for you.

 

More Articles Like This:

• Walking the Camino de Santiago (My 900km Guide & Packing List)
• A Conversation with the Man Who Walked Around the World (46,000 km in 7 Years)
• Ultralight Backpacking in Australia (2026 Guide)
• Multi-Day Hiking in Australia for Beginners: The Ultimate Guide

 

Hiking Backpack FAQs

What size hiking backpack do I need?

It really depends on what sort of hiking you’re doing and how much you need to carry.

For a short day hike, something around 15-25 liters is usually enough. For longer day hikes or very light overnight trips, 25-35 liters gives you more room. If you’re doing a Camino-style walk and staying in accommodation each night, 35-40 liters is probably a good amount.

For hut-to-hut hiking, where you don’t need to carry a tent or sleeping mat, 50-60 liters is usually okay. If you’re carrying everything yourself for several days, including food, gas, a cooker and camping gear, 60 liters and above can make more sense.

What size backpack is best for a day hike?

For most day hikes, I think the mid-20-litre range is a really useful size. That’s usually enough for your jumper, raincoat, snacks, water and a bit of emergency blister gear. If you like a bit more flexibility, you can go larger. I’ve used a 33-litre pack for years because it compresses down really well when I don’t need all the space.

Is a 40L backpack big enough for a multi-day hike?

It depends on the trip. For a Camino or another long-distance walk where you’re staying in accommodation every night, around 35-40 liters can work really well because you don’t need to carry a tent, sleeping bag or lots of food. And if you’re doing a self-supported multi-day hike and carrying all your sleeping gear, cooking equipment and food, I’d usually look at something larger like 50-65L.

How should a hiking backpack fit?

Many packs come in different sizes like ssmall, medium and large, but you need to consider your torso length when backpack shopping. Just because you’re short doesn’t mean you’ve got a short torso, and being tall doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve got a long one so measure up and ensure the hipbelt sits around your hips and can be done up fairly firmly, this will ensure it takes the weight off your shoulders. Your shoulder straps should wrap around comfortably, and the chest strap should really just help stop the pack moving around.

Is a lighter hiking backpack always better?

No, not necessarily. A lot of people come into the store wanting the lightest pack available because they think every gram counts, but less isn’t necessarily more. For me, comfort is more important, I prefer a pack with plenty of padding and a really good structured frame for when I’m carrying a heavier load. A very lightweight minimalist pack may weigh less, but it can actually be harder on your body if it doesn’t carry the load as comfortably. And for many people, the weight saving isn’t worth it.

Should I buy a men’s or women’s hiking backpack?

Don’t limit yourself by the label. Although there are men’s and women’s packs, all that really matters is how the backpack fits you. I’m a woman, but one of my favourite daypacks is a men’s Osprey Talon. That’s because when I tried it on, it was simply the better fit for me. If you can, try both and go with what feels more comfortable.