Find the Perfect Hiking Backpack for Your New Year’s Resolutions

New year, new trails. You probably set goals to get outside more, hike further or travel lighter — and the right backpack makes those goals easier to keep. This guide helps you match capacity, comfort and useful features to the kinds of hikes you plan, so you spend less time guessing and more time moving.

You’ll learn what matters, what to expect from common sizes, and which packs suit different budgets and trip lengths.

Top Picks

How We Picked These Backpacks

You want a pack that fits your plans, not a list of features you’ll never use. We focused on the factors that actually affect your comfort and success on the trail: capacity (10–15L for short days, 20–30L for long day hikes, 40–50L for overnight trips), fit and suspension (adjustable straps, hip belt, ventilated back), weight and packability, durability and weather resistance (materials, reinforced stress points, rain cover), hydration options (bladder compatibility or included reservoir), pockets and organization (easy access to water, snacks, phone, first aid), plus overall value for the price.

We balanced real-world user reports about comfort and durability with objective specs so you can pick a pack that matches your body, budget and the trips you plan.

If you want a no-fuss pack to help you stick to your hiking goals this year, this Maelstrom 40L daypack is a solid pick. It’s lightweight but roomy, with a ventilated back panel and thick hip belt that make longer walks feel less tiring. You get lots of pockets for organizing snacks, layers and small gear, plus a dedicated wet pocket and an included rain cover so you won’t worry about sudden weather.

It’s unisex, comes in several colors and works just as well for commuting, weekend trips or as a carry-on when you fly—so it’s the kind of versatile pack you’ll reach for again and again.

What People Say

Most buyers say the pack is comfortable and surprisingly roomy for a 40 L bag, praising the padded straps, hip belt and the number of pockets for organization. People also appreciate the included rain cover and durable-feeling fabric. A few users note the back panel could be stiffer for heavier loads and that some pockets (like the hip pockets) are a bit small.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

This pack really pulls double duty: it’s sized for day hikes but still works for short overnights, commuting, or as a travel carry-on. The hydration sleeve can double as a laptop pocket in a pinch, and the adjustable straps let you fine-tune the fit whether you’re wearing it for an afternoon or a full day.

Travel Friendly

It’s travel-friendly — lightweight, meets size expectations for most airlines, and the pockets make documents and snacks easy to access. The included rain cover is a nice travel bonus so you don’t have to stash a separate weather pouch.

Why You’ll Like It

• 40 L capacity with multiple pockets for organized packing
• Ventilated padded back and thick hip-belt for comfort on long walks
• Includes rain cover and water-resistant rip-stop nylon fabric
• Lightweight construction that still feels durable
• Built-in features like hydration sleeve, whistle chest buckle and reflective accents

Rating: 4.6 (total: 3085+)

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If you want a no-fuss pack for short hikes, travel days or running around town, this 15 L foldable daypack is a handy option. You get a lightweight shell (about 310 g) that unfolds to roughly 17.7 x 11 x 5.1 in and compresses into a small zippered pouch for stashing in a suitcase or larger pack.

The shoulder straps have a zip phone pocket on one side and a drawstring pocket on the other, plus an adjustable chest strap whose buckle doubles as a whistle — small touches that make day trips less fiddly. There are two side water-bottle holders, a front zip and mesh pocket for quick access, and a rear anti-theft zip pocket for valuables, so you can keep things organized whether you’re at a theme park, doing a summit day hike or simply commuting.

It’s simple, versatile and the kind of lightweight pack you’ll pull out when you don’t want to carry a bulky bag.

What People Say

Buyers commonly praise how lightweight and surprisingly roomy this pack feels for a 15 L bag, and many like that it folds into a compact pouch for travel. Folks also appreciate the strap phone pocket and the chest strap with a whistle for added convenience and security.

A few customers mention strap bulk when loaded and occasional seam or durability concerns, but most find the fabric and zippers perform well for day hikes and travel.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

This little pack wears a lot of hats: it’s set up for short hikes and outdoor days but also works for commuting, amusement parks and travel as a lightweight backup. The pocket layout handles everyday essentials well, and the chest strap helps keep things stable if you’re moving quickly.

Travel Friendly

Very travel-friendly — it folds small, weighs almost nothing and has pockets for easy airport or day-trip access. The anti-theft rear pocket is a practical touch when you’re in busy places.

Why You’ll Like It

• Ultralight 15 L capacity that packs down into its own pouch
• Multiple pockets including anti-theft rear zip and side bottle holders
• Phone pocket on strap and a drawstring strap pocket for quick access
• Adjustable chest belt with built-in whistle for a more secure fit
• Tear- and scratch-resistant fabric designed for everyday outdoor use

Rating: 4.4 (total: 467+)

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If you’re planning to turn hiking into a regular habit this year, this Loowoko 50L pack is the kind of all-purpose bag you’ll reach for. It’s surprisingly light for the capacity (the listing notes about 2.1 lb), has a built-in rain cover, a bottom shoe compartment and plenty of external pockets and compression straps so you can attach a sleeping bag or trekking poles.

The shoulder straps and back panel are padded and breathable, so longer walks feel less fiddly, and the layout makes it easy to organize gear for day trips or a 3–5 day outing. For everyday trail use and travel when you don’t want a premium-brand price tag, it’s a practical, no-fuss option worth considering.

What People Say

You’ll notice most buyers appreciate how roomy and well organized the bag is, and a lot of people point out that the rain cover and padded straps make it easy to use in wet weather or on longer days. Folks often note the good build for the price, while a minority report issues like buckle or pocket durability and awkwardly placed water bottle holders.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

This pack works across a lot of situations: weekend backpacking, day hikes, commuting and travel. The mix of pockets, straps and a shoe compartment means you can reconfigure it for different trips without needing extra bags.

Travel Friendly

It’s travel-friendly thanks to its sizeable but compressible main compartment and the tuck-away rain cover. Carry-on compatibility depends on how much you stuff it, but reviewers often used it for multi-week trips and city travel.

Why You’ll Like It

• Large 50 L (45+5) capacity with compression straps for extra gear
• Rain cover included for reliable wet-weather protection
• Breathable, padded shoulder straps and back panel for comfort
• Multiple external pockets plus a bottom shoe compartment for organization
• Upgraded materials, stronger straps and durable zippers for everyday use

Rating: 4.5 (total: 5536+)

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If you want a compact, grab-and-go pack for new hiking habits, this SKYSPER 20L hits a lot of useful notes. It’s light and breathable so you won’t dread short climbs or long city walks, and the multiple pockets plus an anti-theft zipper help keep small gear tidy and secure. The straps are adjustable and partly removable, there’s a chest strap and a safety whistle, and the fabric is water-resistant enough for drizzles and muddy trail edges. Use it for day hikes, quick weekend trips, commuting to the gym, or as a tidy carry-on that tucks under the seat when you need to travel light.

For everyday outdoor plans, it’s a practical, low-fuss option you’ll keep reaching for.

What People Say

You’ll notice buyers often praise how comfortable and surprisingly roomy this small pack feels, with many pointing out the useful pocket layout and sturdy stitching. People also highlight the breathable back panel and helpful safety features like the whistle and anti-theft zipper, while a few mention strap fit can be awkward for taller frames or that zippers aren’t premium grade.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

You can switch between outdoor and everyday use without thinking too hard: it works as a hike-ready daypack, a gym bag, or a compact travel companion. The pocket layout and removable strap options make it easy to adapt to different routines.

Travel Friendly

It’s travel-friendly thanks to its lightweight, frameless design that compresses into luggage or fits under a plane seat when you don’t overpack. Expect good carry-on practicality for short trips and city travel.

Why You’ll Like It

• Water-resistant, durable 600D polyester construction
• Lightweight and breathable back panel for comfortable wear
• Multiple compartments and anti-theft zipper for organization and security
• Adjustable/removable straps, chest strap and whistle for fit and safety
• Deep side pockets that hold large water bottles and quick-access items

Rating: 4.6 (total: 4886+)

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If you’re building a hiking habit this year, the Sherpa 22L is the kind of pack you’ll reach for. It balances a compact 22 L profile with six pockets so snacks, layers and small gear don’t get lost in one big space. The included BPA-free 2 L bladder is handy for hands-free hydration, the hip and chest straps keep the pack stable on bouncy trails, and those waterproof zipper liners give you extra peace of mind when the weather turns. Use it for short day hikes, bike rides, quick weekend runs, or even errands where you want water, a phone holder and easy organization.

It’s a practical, no-nonsense pick if you want something ready for everyday outdoor use.

What People Say

You’ll notice most buyers appreciate how roomy and well organized this small pack feels, with lots of useful pockets and a handy phone slot on the strap. People also praise the pole holders and the pack’s comfortable fit for day trips, though a number of reviewers say the included bladder could be better—some find it hard to clean or awkward to use.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

You can switch between trail and daily life without much thought: it’s roomy enough for outdoor essentials but compact enough for errands and commuting, and the pocket layout keeps things organized whether the bladder is in or out.

Travel Friendly

It’s travel-friendly thanks to its slim, lightweight shape and hydration setup that removes the need for extra water bottles; it easily tucks into car seats or overhead bins for short trips.

Why You’ll Like It

• Spacious 22 L capacity with multiple pockets for organized storage
• BPA-free 2 L hydration bladder with wide opening for refills
• Adjustable hip and chest straps for a secure, bounce-free fit
• Dedicated phone pocket on the shoulder strap and trekking pole holders
• Waterproof zipper liners to protect gear from light rain

Rating: 4.5 (total: 803+)

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If you want a simple, go-anywhere daypack to support a new hiking habit, this 40 L pack is a solid choice. It’s surprisingly roomy for its weight, with a main compartment, two front pockets, side bottle holders, a zippered wet pocket and straps for trekking poles or a rolled mat. The whole thing folds into a small internal pouch so you can stash it in a suitcase or another bag and pull it out when you need extra carrying space.

Use it for day hikes, beach days, sightseeing, or as a carry-on/personal item when you’re traveling light. If you regularly haul bulky camping gear, you might size up, but for everyday outdoor use this one is practical and fuss-free.

What People Say

You’ll hear a lot of people praise how light and roomy this pack feels for day trips, and how handy the many pockets are for keeping things organized. Buyers commonly like the wet pocket and the fact it folds into a compact pouch for travel.

Some mention the straps are on the thinner side for heavy loads and a few note zipper snags or wish for a larger capacity when packing bulky camping gear.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

You can move between outdoor trails and everyday life without fuss: it’s roomy enough for trail essentials yet compact and neat for errands or travel, and the pocket layout keeps smaller items from getting lost.

Travel Friendly

Very travel-friendly — it tucks into its own pouch, is light enough to meet tight weight limits, and works well as a daypack or carry-on for short trips.

Why You’ll Like It

• Large 40 L capacity with multiple compartments to keep gear organized
• Packable design folds into its own pocket for easy storage and travel
• Water-resistant ripstop nylon and reinforced stress points for durability
• Dedicated waterproof wet pocket to separate sweaty or wet items
• Lightweight with padded mesh shoulder straps and a chest strap whistle

Rating: 4.4 (total: 744+)

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If you want a tiny, no-fuss daypack to help you stick to hiking or travel goals, this 10 L pack is worth a look. It’s featherlight (about 11.7 ounces) and folds into a compact pouch, so you can stash it in a suitcase or larger pack and pull it out when you need extra carry space.

The layout is straightforward: a roomy main compartment, a phone pocket on the shoulder strap, an anti-theft pocket and a couple of small external pockets for quick-access items. The fabric is water-resistant and the chest strap adds stability when you’re on the move.

Use it for one-day hikes, city sightseeing, crowded transit days or as a backup bag on longer trips — it’s particularly convenient when you want something that won’t weigh you down but still keeps your essentials organized. If you plan to carry heavy camping gear all day, you’ll likely want something bigger, but for lightweight adventures and travel this one is practical and easy to live with.

What People Say

You’ll notice most buyers praise how light and compact this pack is and how conveniently it folds for travel. People frequently point out the helpful organization — the shoulder phone pocket and small front pockets keep things within reach.

Common gripes are about the phone pocket being tight for larger phones, the chest clip feeling a bit flimsy for some, and a few reports of straps or zipper alignment needing attention.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

This pack moves easily between trail and town — roomy enough for essentials on a hike but compact and neat for travel or daily use. The pocket layout helps keep small items from getting lost so you don’t need a separate pouch.

Travel Friendly

Very travel friendly — it tucks into its own pouch, is lightweight for carry-on limits, and works well as a daypack for sightseeing or as a backup bag.

Why You’ll Like It

• Ultra-light 10 L capacity for essentials without bulk
• Packable design folds into a small pouch for easy storage
• Phone pocket on shoulder strap and a separate anti-theft pocket
• Water-resistant nylon and durable SBS zippers
• Adjustable chest strap with whistle and sunglasses holder

Rating: 4.4 (total: 809+)

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This is the kind of hiking pack you reach for when you want hydration, storage and comfort without overthinking gear. It comes with a 2 L bladder (option for 3 L), an insulated sleeve to help keep your water cool, and a surprisingly roomy 20 L body with pockets for sunglasses, tools, valuables and even helmet storage. The back panel and padded straps, plus adjustable chest and waist straps, make it comfortable for both short walks and longer outings. Use it for day hikes, bike rides, ski laps or as a compact travel pack that tucks under a plane seat.

If you want a practical, no-fuss hydration pack that carries more than it looks like it should, this one’s worth considering.

What People Say

Most people appreciate how much this pack holds and how well the pockets keep things organized — shoppers often call out the helmet space and tool pocket as handy extras. The insulated bladder compartment and decent water flow get frequent praise for keeping drinks cool and easy to access.

Common complaints focus on the mouthpiece (some find it fiddly or prone to leaking) and an initial plastic taste in the bladder for a few users.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

This pack easily switches between trail and town — roomy enough for day hikes but neat enough for travel or commuting. The pocket layout and attachment points mean you can carry outdoor tools, everyday essentials or festival gear without adding a separate bag.

Travel Friendly

Travel friendly — slim enough for carry-on and organized enough to keep travel items separated. The insulated bladder sleeve and helmet compartment add practical options for multi-purpose trips.

Why You’ll Like It

• Generous 20 L capacity with multiple organizational pockets
• Replaceable 2 L bladder (3 L option) with insulated sleeve
• High-flow bite valve and bilateral hose outlets for easy sips
• Padded back and adjustable chest/waist straps for stability
• Helmet storage, tool pocket and reflective safety details

Rating: 4.5 (total: 720+)

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If you want a compact, no-stress hydration pack for day hikes or busy weekends, this is an easy grab. It pairs an 18 L main compartment with a 3 L insulated bladder that helps keep water cool during long outings, breathable mesh on the straps and back for comfort, plus organized pockets and waist pouches for your phone, snacks and small gear.

The bladder has a wide opening for ice and cleaning and the hose routes neatly along the straps so you can sip without stopping. Use it for daily trail runs, long bike rides, festivals or as a light travel daypack — it’s built to be versatile and low-maintenance, so it’s a solid option if you want something reliable without fuss.

What People Say

Customers repeatedly point to the insulated bladder and roomy storage as standout features — people like that their water stays cooler and there’s space for snacks, tools and a jacket. Reviews also praise the comfort from the breathable padding and the overall durability of the nylon fabric. A few users mention minor annoyances like drying the hose or preferences about hose attachment, but overall sentiment leans strongly positive.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

This pack moves between trail, town and festival without awkwardness. The pocket layout and removable bladder mean you can carry outdoor tools, daily essentials or event gear without needing a second bag, so it feels useful for lots of plans.

Travel Friendly

Travel-friendly thanks to a slim shape that tucks into overhead or under-seat space, plus organized pockets that keep passports and tech separate. The insulated bladder is a handy perk for warm destinations.

Why You’ll Like It

• 18 L carrying capacity plus a 3 L insulated, BPA-free bladder
• Insulated bladder compartment keeps drinks cooler on hot days
• Ventilated mesh padding on back and straps for better airflow
• Multiple zip and mesh pockets plus secure waist pouches for valuables
• Wide bladder opening for easy filling and cleaning; durable nylon build
• Reflective strips for improved visibility in low light

Rating: 4.7 (total: 2236+)

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If you want a dependable small pack for day hikes and everyday trips, this 25 L tactical backpack is an easy choice. It’s built from sturdy polyester with a breathable mesh back and padded straps so you won’t dread wearing it for a few hours, and the MOLLE webbing lets you clip on extras as needed.

There’s a dedicated sleeve for a hydration bladder (not included), reflective strips for low-light visibility and a sternum strap with a safety whistle — little touches that make trail time and city errands more comfortable. Use it for short backpacking days, bike rides, commuting, or even as a roomy diaper/EDC bag; if you want a versatile, low-fuss pack that handles a lot of everyday situations, this one fits the bill.

What People Say

You’ll find a lot of shoppers calling out the pack’s toughness and good build quality — strong stitching, solid zippers and durable material come up often. People also appreciate the comfortable padded straps, handy pockets and the MOLLE system for adding gear.

A few note it’s not fully waterproof and that capacity can feel tight if you pack large bottles, but overall most users like how versatile and well-made it feels.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

When To Use

Versatility

This pack transitions from trail to town smoothly. The pocket layout, MOLLE compatibility and removable hip belt mean you can outfit it for hiking, daily carry, biking or even as a diaper bag — you don’t need a second bag for most short outings.

Travel Friendly

Travel-friendly thanks to a compact shape that fits into tight spaces and organized compartments that keep passports, snacks and tech separate. The hydration sleeve is handy when you want to ditch a water bladder or swap it out.

Why You’ll Like It

• 25 L capacity that’s roomy enough for day trips but compact to carry comfortably
• Dedicated hydration sleeve and tube port (hydration bladder sold separately)
• Padded, adjustable shoulder straps, removable hip belt and breathable back panel
• MOLLE webbing for attaching extra pouches and gear
• Reflective strips and built-in sternum whistle for visibility and safety
• Durable 600D polyester with sturdy YKK-style zippers and solid stitching

Rating: 4.6 (total: 1083+)

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FAQ

How Do You Choose The Right Hiking Backpack For Your New Year’s Goals?

Think about the type of hikes you plan to do and how often you’ll go. For short day hikes you’ll be happiest with a smaller, lighter pack that keeps essentials handy; for overnight or multi-day trips you’ll need more volume and better load transfer.

Pay attention to fit more than color: the hip belt should sit on your hips to take weight off your shoulders, the torso length should match your back, and a ventilated back and adjustable straps will keep you comfortable on long miles. Features that matter are a hydration sleeve or external bottle pockets, easily accessible pockets for snacks and maps, and a reliable rain cover for wet weather. Try packs on with some weight in them and adjust the hip and sternum straps so you feel the load on your hips instead of your shoulders; this simple test tells you far more than capacity numbers alone.

Is The Maelstrom 40L Daypack A Good Choice For Overnight Trips And How Should You Pack It?

The Maelstrom 40L is a solid choice if your New Year’s plans include long day hikes or light overnight trips because its 40L capacity, ventilated back, thick hip-belt and included rain cover are designed for active use. Pack heavy, dense items closest to your spine and midway down the pack, keep frequently used items in top or outer pockets, and use compression straps to stabilize the load so it rides snugly without sagging. Use the hydration sleeve or side bottle pockets for water and secure the chest and hip straps to stop the pack from shifting. If you expect several nights of camping with lots of water or bulky cold-weather gear, consider a larger framed pack made for multi-day loads, but for 1–2 nights or travel where you’ll also be carrying other luggage, a 40L like the Maelstrom is very practical and carry-on friendly.

How Do You Care For Your Hiking Backpack And Get The Most Comfort From Its Features?

Treat the pack gently and it will last: spot clean muddy areas with a damp cloth, air dry completely before storing, and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for deeper cleaning. Keep the rain cover accessible and use it whenever heavy precipitation or snow is likely so your contents stay dry, and store wet clothes in a separate waterproof bag inside the main compartment to prevent odors. For hydration systems, rinse and dry the bladder and tube after each use to avoid buildup, and consider replacing a cheap bite valve if it’s stiff or leaks. Regularly check straps, buckles and zippers for wear and re-tighten loose stitching when needed.

To improve comfort on the trail, experiment with load placement and strap tension on short walks until the pack sits stable on your hips, and use the hip-belt pockets or sternum strap to keep small items and the load balanced for easier, more enjoyable miles.

What Hikers Prefer

When choosing between the Maelstrom 40L, the 15L Foldable Daypack, and the Loowoko 50L, you mostly prioritize capacity and trip length—picking the lightweight, stowable 15L for quick day outings, the Maelstrom 40L when you want a balanced overnight pack with good organization and comfort, and the Loowoko 50L when you need maximum volume and ruggedness for multi-day treks. You also care about fit, suspension, weather resistance and pack weight, plus how easily the bag packs away and its overall durability relative to price.

Wrapping Up

Pick a pack that matches the hikes you actually plan to do. If you want weekend overnights, aim for 40–50L with a supportive hip belt. For daily walks or travel, a 10–20L daypack or an easily packable 15L option keeps things light and simple. Hydration packs with insulated bladder pockets are a huge convenience if you drink frequently on the move.

Choosing the right backpack now helps you build momentum on your New Year’s resolutions — you’ll feel more comfortable, carry what matters and get outdoors more often.

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