Best Hiking Backpacks for Summer

It’s the perfect weather to hit the trails and I’ve asked the Wild Earth staff for their Hiking Backpack top picks. 

 

How can a backpack be seasonal you ask? We’ll…. They’re not really, we’ve just chosen a selection of lighter packs that are tried and tested to handle summer adventures exceptionaly well. 

 

Whether you're planning a day hike or a multi-day trek the right backpack can make or break your adventures. To help you gear up, we've rounded up some of the best hiking backpacks for summer. These options offer the best comfort, functionality and quality from some of your favourite brands.

 

 1. Hyperlite Unbound 55L Hiking Backpack 

If you’re a gram counter then this backpack will already be on your radar. The Hyperlite Unbound 55L Hiking Backpack is a top choice for serious hikers who value ultralight performance without sacrificing functionality and comfort. Made from Dyneema composite fabric, this pack is both waterproof and incredibly tough. With 55 litres of capacity, it’s got plenty of room for all your essentials without bulking out. It's also designed with an adjustable harness and padded hip belt which helps increase those comfort levels during longer treks.

 

Why we like it:  

It has a really slick design and is lightweight yet rugged. This backpack is ideal for summer hikes, multi-day treks, and even global travel where you need to carry enough gear but want to keep your load light.

 

 

 2. Arc'teryx Konseal 40L Climbing Pack

For climbers and minimalist hikers, the Arc'teryx Konseal 40L Climbing Pack offers a sturdy design with a clean aesthetic. It is specifically designed to carry climbing gear efficiently, with thoughtful features like a top-loading design, rope strap and gear loops. It makes a great hiking day pack too. Weighing in at 1.5 kilos, the pack's comfortable suspension system and ventilated back panel keep you cool during those intense summer climbs.

 

Why we like it:  

Designed for vertical adventures, it’s a great choice for climbers and hikers looking to tackle challenging routes.

 

8. Osprey Farpoint 75 / Fairview 70 Trek

 

The Osprey Farpoint 75 and Fairview 70 Trek packs are basically the same but with slightly different fits - the Farpoint is the mens version and the Fairview is the women’s version. They’re built for versatility, ideal for travel backpackers and multi-day trekkers who want a pack that can handle both urban environments and remote trails. Both offer a spacious main compartment, a removable daypack, and comfortable carrying options. Weighing in at around 2.1 kg with a load range of 9-23kg the packs are well-suited for long journeys or backpacking trips that require a mix of travel and hiking.

 

Why we like it:    

Ideal for those who need a pack that transitions seamlessly from the city life to out on the trails.

 

 3. Salomon Cross 8 or 12 Unisex Hydration Pack 

If you’re looking for faster and lighter adventures, the Salomon Cross 8 or 12 Unisex Hydration Packs are the perfect option. These packs come in two sizes, offering 8L or 12L of storage, along with an integrated hydration system to keep you hydrated on the go (note they can fit a 1.5 litre bladder and 2 x soft flasks but these are not included). Designed for trail runners and fast hikers, these packs feature a super comfortable vest design, breathable materials, and quick-access pockets for trail snacks and essentials.

 

Why we like it:  

Stay hydrated and agile on the trail with this lightweight, breathable pack that’s perfect for hot, fast-paced summer hikes.

 

 

 4. The North Face Youth Terra 50L

If you’re planning a family adventure, The North Face Youth Terra 50L Backpack is an excellent choice for young explorers. Designed specifically for kids, this pack offers a comfortable fit and durable construction to handle the demands of the trail. It features an adjustable suspension system, a padded hip belt, and plenty of pockets for organising gear. Available in Sapphire Slate/Blue Moss/NPF.

 

Why we like it:    

This pack is designed especially for growing bodies and keeps kids comfortable on longer summer hikes or camping trips.

 

 

 

 5. Matador Freefly 16L Packable Backpack 

The Freefly16 is a 16 liter high-performance weatherproof daypack that compresses for travel. When versatility and packability are key, the Freefly 16L is a fantastic choice. This compact, lightweight backpack only weighs 190 grams easily packs into a mesh compression sack for simple storage when on the go. It's water-resistant, perfect for quick hikes, day trips, or as an extra bag for unexpected summer adventures. Despite its small size, it provides enough space to comfortably carry the essentials.

 

Why we like it:  

A highly packable option for spontaneous summer hikes, urban day trips or as a backup pack for travel.

 

 

 6. Deuter Futura Pro 38 SL Women's Backpack

 

The Deuter Futura Pro 38 SL Women's Backpack is designed with the female form in mind. The design is a nice balance between comfort, breathability, and storage capacity with an ergonomic design that features a women-specific fit, an Aircomfort Sensic Pro back system for enhanced airflow, and multiple compartments for easy organisation. It's ideal for multi-day hikes or longer day trips.

 

Why we like it:   

This women-specific design is super comfortable and the superior ventilation and back system keeps you cool and comfortable during hikes.

 

 7. Osprey Rook 65L Men's / Renn 65L Women's Hiking Backpack  

 

The popular Osprey Rook 65L for men and Renn 65L for women are designed for comfort on long multi-day treks. Both feature adjustable suspension systems, a breathable back panel, and plenty of pockets to keep your gear organised on the move. These packs are ideal for those who need to carry heavier loads comfortably over long distances.

 

Why we like it:   

Great for extended trips where you need to carry a substantial amount of gear, with breathable materials to keep you cool.

 

 

 9. Osprey Poco Child Carrier Backpack  

Having a kid doesn’t mean the end of adventures! For parents who want to bring their little ones along for the adventure, the Osprey Poco Child Carrier has your back literally! With a comfortable and adjustable child seat, integrated sunshade, and plenty of storage for essentials, this carrier allows you to comfortably explore the outdoors with your mini me.

 

Why we like it:   

Provides comfort and safety for both parent and child, making it ideal for family summer hikes.

Whether you're a hardcore hiker or simply a weekend adventurer, the right backpack will level up your summer adventures. Choose from these top-rated backpacks.

 

Not sure what gear you need for your adventure? Chat with our friendly team of Outdoor Gear Specialists in-store or online today and don’t forget to share your adventures with us on Instagram by tagging @wildearthaustralia and #mywildearth in your next post.

 

About the contributor:

Lauren Clark is the social media manager for Wild Earth. An obsessive gram counter who's always on the hunt for the lightest and most compact gear for hiking and travel. You'll find her overseas in one country or another attempting digital nomad life. When she's not working she's taking in as much culture as she can, eating all of the foods, hiking all of the trails and trying to find the secret spots. Follow her adventures on Instagram.