Best Women's Hiking and Backpacking Packs of 2025
Comfortable Day packs and backpacking backpacks for women of all sizes and shapes
March 27th, 2025
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We constantly get questions from readers about the best backpacks for women. Whether they’re looking for a backpack for day hiking or a backpacking backpack for longer overnight trips, people are searching for packs that work for their unique body types.
Fortunately, we have lots of women’s gear testers with a range of body types eager to share their favorite backpacking packs! Many women’s packs are designed for curvier or smaller torsos and less broad shoulders, and are adjustable to accommodate a range of sizes.
Sometimes unisex packs, or even men’s packs, work for folks who might otherwise choose women’s gear. Often, though, people with curves, shorter torsos, and more narrow shoulders want something designed for their body–not something designed for an average man’s body that may or may not work for them.
We know there isn’t a one-size-fits-all when it comes to something you wear, at least not one-size-fits-all-the-same. So we asked Treeline writers and editors to share which women’s hiking packs and backpacking backpacks work best for their bodies to give you a good idea of how these packs actually fit.
And for more suggestions and insight, check out our Best Lightweight Backpacking and Thru-hiking Backpacks and Best Outdoor Gear for Plus-size People guides.
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Comparison table
| WOMEN'S PACK | TREELINE WRITER | BEST USE | AVAILABLE VOLUMES | FITS TORSO | FITS HIPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gregory Maven | Becca Downs | Backpacking | 48, 58, 68 L | 14-19 in | 24-48 in |
| Granite Gear Crown3 Women's Fit | Mary Beth Skylis | Lightweight backpacking, thru hiking | 40, 60 L | 15-21 in | 24-40 in |
| Gregory Maya | Erica Zazo | Day hiking | 15, 20, 25 L | 14-19 in | 27-45 in (41-60 in plus size) |
| Osprey Aura AG | Sonja Lind | Backpacking | 50, 65 L | 13.5-19.5 in | 26-50 in |
| Osprey Ariel Plus | Gabaccia Moreno | Backpacking w/ heavier loads | 70, 85 L | 13.5-19.5 in | 26-50 in |
Our Favorite Women's Packs
Gregory Maven 48L
Best for: Backpacking
Weight: 3.2 lb (for 48 L)
Pack volumes available: 48, 58, 68 L (2025 models)
Recommended max capacity: 50 lb (for 48 L)
Hip belt: 24-48 in
Torso lengths: 14-19 in
I started testing the Gregory Maven 48L backpack over the summer and was amazed by how much more comfortable it was than the unisex packs I had been using previously.
Truth be told, my body type can often get away with men’s or unisex packs–I’m 5’4” with an average torso, smaller breasts, and average hips. However, wearing a pack designed specifically for women–with adjustable torso length and an adjustable, dynamic hipbelt that moves with you–made my backpacking experience even better. My hips felt comfortably cradled, and the adjustable torso straps allowed me to fine-tune my best fit.
While I can’t speak to all body types, this pack worked really well for me. The sizes currently available at REI range from fitting torso lengths 14”-19” and waist/hips 24”-48”.
Treeline Review writer and editor Mary Murphy backpacking with the Gregory Maven 46L in the Colorado mountains. Photo by Becca Downs
The Maven is thoughtfully designed, with seven pockets in addition to the main compartment (including a shoulder strap pocket designed for a Garmin inReach device or other small items), easy access to the main compartment with top, bottom, and side-zipper access, an AirCushion mesh back panel for ventilation, an internal hydration sleeve, and much more. The features I found most useful were probably the hipbelt pockets and the side-zipper access to the pack.
Women's-specific backpacks tend to have adjustable straps and be cushioned at the hips. Here, two of our women's gear testers, Becca Downs (left) and Mary Murphy (right), wore the Gregory Maven 48L on a backpacking trip in Colorado.
Overall, the pack is simply comfortable. The straps are plush for long days on the trail, and the organization makes it easy to distribute weight evenly throughout the pack. The 48L is a great volume for most backpacking excursions. I’d love to see this pack extended to include plus-size options, but Gregory does include a line of plus-size, women’s-specific backpacks as well.
Best for: Lightweight backpacking, thru-hiking
Weight: 2.3lbs (short torso, no lid, 60 L)
Pack volumes available: 40, 60 L
Recommended max capacity: 35 lb (for 60 L)
Hip belt: 24-40 in
Torso lengths: 15-18 (short), 18-21 (regular) in
I’ll admit, I was out of practice when I slipped the Granite Gear Crown3 60 pack over my shoulders and clipped the hip belt. Over the years, I’d hiked thousands of miles around the United States, but then an injury stalled my progress. When I finally made it back on trail, I worried that I’d struggle to fit my whole system into my pack, or that I’d overload myself with unnecessary equipment.
Yet the Granite Gear Crown3 60 made it not only easy to pack my bag, but also to carry it.
The pack’s hip belt is adjustable, firm, and cushioned enough to reduce the bruises that I usually would get on my hips. And the torso fits like a glove.
But I was most impressed with the weight-to-capacity ratio on the Granite Gear Crown3 60. I’d hiked the entire Appalachian Trail with another pack, the ULA Circuit backpacking pack (review here), which featured almost the exact same weight to ratio capacity. But by the time I reached Virginia, my straps were tearing because I’d overloaded the pack’s capacity.
This pack comfortably carried 20 pounds of gear for a weekend excursion through Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, and I never once worried about dropping it on the ground or lugging it onto my shoulders. Instead, I felt confident that this pack would handle pretty much everything I could put it through.
Those who prefer the women’s version of this pack point to the adjustable hip belt as one reason, saying that our bodies shift through time and it can be really nice to have a hip belt that changes while you do. You can read Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas's review of the Crown3 60, which is based on her experience with the women's version of the pack. The unisex version of the pack also won a 2024 Gear of the Year Award from Treeline writer Elliot Koeppel.
Gregory Maya 25 Pack
Best for: Day hiking
Weight: 2 lb (for 25 L)
Pack volumes available: 15, 20, 20 plus-size, 25, 30 L
Recommended max capacity: 25 lbs (for 25 L)
Hip belt: 27-45 in
Torso lengths: 14-19 in (27-45 in plus size)
When it comes to women’s packs, I look out for comfort (especially in the chest, shoulders, and hips) and features like breathability and adjustability to add to the fit and feel of the pack. Since I tend to day hike more than I backpack living in Chicago, I’ve been on the lookout for a women’s pack that fits my larger body frame and that has plenty of features to make my days on the trail easier and more enjoyable.
The Gregory Maya 25 comes with adjustable hip and chest straps that fit larger bodies, and the pack also comes in plus sizes.
After a full summer of testing backpacks, the Gregory Maya 25 rose to the top for its comfort, breathability, and versatility. The Maya 25 stands out with its ventilated, padded foam back panel that conforms to the back while preventing heat buildup. It’s also designed to accommodate Gregory’s hydration reservoirs, making it a convenient option for staying hydrated on the go. For women and female-identifying hikers seeking a well-ventilated, supportive, and adaptable backpack, the Maya 25 is an excellent choice for day-hike adventures.
Erica’s partner, Courtney, hiking in west Michigan with the Gregory Maya 25 – an adjustable, breathable, and comfortable day hiking backpack.
For me, a standout feature of the Maya 25 was also its superior ventilation system; it’s ideal for hiking in hot and humid climates. Ventilated grooves along the spine to allow for extra airflow and the foam padding is aerodynamically grooved to minimize contact with your back. Even the lightweight shoulder straps feature ventilation holes and mesh fabric for added breathability.
Beyond breathability, the Maya 25 offers an adaptive fit and comes in plus sizing, which I appreciate. Designed with Gregory’s BioSync flexible hip belt and shoulder harness, I found the pack moved naturally with my body while I hiked. The large waistband also fit around my larger hips without any issues of running out of strap length to buckle the backpack.
I also didn’t have an issue with the chest strap fitting around my breasts, which isn’t the case for other packs I’ve tested in the past. Both the hip belt and the chest belt on this pack helped when navigating rugged trails, like stepping over obstacles like downed trees and larger rocks.
You can read more about the design of the plus size version of the Maya pack in our interview with Unlikely Hikers founder Jenny Bruso.
Best for: Backpacking - a larger backpack that feels like a hug
Weight: 4.5 lbs
Pack volumes available: 50, 65 L
Recommended max capacity: Unspecified
Hip belt: 26-50 in
Torso lengths: 13.5-19.5 in
Three years ago, I trekked 160 miles of the John Muir Trail as a new backpacker, filling my new 65-liter Osprey Aura backpack with 35 pounds of belongings.
As a curvier woman with a pear-shaped figure, I appreciated the thickly padded hip belt. Wearing this Osprey backpack felt like a big hug; it was perfectly designed to wrap around my hips and back. And the Osprey "anti-gravity" suspension system held the pack off my back, so I felt less sweaty.
Aura has been a popular pack for women. I often saw this backpack on other women hikers–even as recently as the summer of 2024 on a long day hike. For me, this backpack is functional, comfortable, and spacious. I also loved the bright green color.
Treeline Review writer Sonja Lind wearing the women’s specific Osprey Aura pack on the John Muir Trail.
I adored the storage! There are multiple pockets, like the hip belt where I put my phone, snacks, and sunscreen,the top lid where I kept my maps, and multiple zippered, hidden compartments, like one where I put my pajamas or sleeping bag. On the outside of the pack, I hung everything I could dream of: socks I had hand-washed the night before, a handkerchief pee rag, and flip-flops camp shoes. There is seemingly endless storage.
As I got more backpacking experience, I bought an ultralight backpack as I lowered my overall backpack baseweight to under 30 pounds. Unlike the Osprey Aura, the ultralight pack didn't have extra straps or storage space. I walk more lightly through the wilderness now. However, when I'm adjusting the frame of my boxy, unisex backpack, I miss my Osprey and wonder if the extra weight is worth it for comfort.
Summary: Extra space and customization for a comfortable and even luxurious backpacking trip.
Best for: Multi-day backpacking with heavier loads
Weight: 5.5 lb (for 70 L)
Pack volumes available: 70, 85 L
Recommended max capacity: 30-60 lb (for 70 L)
Hip belt: 26-50 in
Torso lengths: Adjustable, XS/S 13.5-17, M/L 16-19.5 in
If there is luxury in backpacking, this must be it. A notably durable and versatile backpack, the Ariel 70 Plus has accompanied me through hundreds of miles since 2021. The major win for the Ariel 70 Plus is its ability to be customized to fit different body types.
As a 5’4” curvy woman with C-cup breasts, a relatively short torso, and size eight hips, I’ve enjoyed its custom Fit-on-the-Fly features, which have allowed me to adjust the length of the torso of the pack, the hipbelt padding, sternum strap, and the shoulder straps to my body’s needs. I feel like this pack was made just for me, and I appreciate the ability to customize it as my body changes over the seasons and years.
Treeline Review writer Gabaccia Moreno wearing the Osprey Ariel 70 Plus women’s specific backpacking backpack. The Osprey Ariel 70 Plus is highly adjustable to accommodate for different and changing body types.
Whether my load is heavy, light, or bulky, I find the spaciousness and fit of the overall pack keep me comfortable. I have never filled the volume or weight to the maximum capacity, but I prefer having the extra space when the weather (or my ADHD brain) doesn’t allow me to pack meticulously.
The pack’s convertible top lid has to be one of my favorite features. It becomes a full-blown daypack with an outer zippered pocket, front and top access to inner contents, a customizable sternum strap, adjustable shoulder straps, and an inner water reservoir sleeve, making day trips and side quests much more enjoyable. The Ariel 70 Plus also sports three different access points into your main load and a number of pockets, loops, and straps that help keep gear super organized.
Overall, the Ariel 70 Plus lives up to its series’ award-winning reputation, enhancing the backpacking experience through comfort, functional design, and durability. It probably offers “too much” in terms of features, but it really comes down to prioritizing one’s comfort. If you decide to invest in an Ariel 70 Plus, I highly recommend checking out instructional videos on all its features to take full advantage of what it offers from day one.
I know I’ll keep my Ariel 70 Plus around for as long as it lasts me, and I am not mad to say it looks like she’ll tag along on ALL the backpacking trips of the foreseeable future.
Best for: Ultralight backpacking, thru-hiking, summer overnighters
Weight: 1.5 lb
Pack volumes available: 38 L
Recommended max capacity: 20 lb
Hip belt: 50 inches
Torso lengths: Unspecified; fits most people
Last summer, I thru-hiked the Uinta Highline Trail in Utah (~100 miles) and the Colorado Collegiate Loop (~165 miles) using the Symbiosis Gear Aspen ultralight backpacking pack. While there are a lot of ultralight packs out there, The Aspen is rare in that it is specifically designed for femme-bodies.
It uses backpack straps with an S-shaped curve (instead of the usual J-shaped curve) to not squish boobs. Similarly, the sternum strap can be adjusted up or down to ride where it feels most comfortable. It has worked for bust sizes from A to DDD. Unlike straight or J-straped straps, these S-straps sit in the middle of my shoulders and don't roll off onto the area above my rotator cuff. This means I could use my trekking poles more freely without worrying my pack would slide off.
Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas carrying the Symbiosis Gear The Aspen women’s specific ultralight backpack on a thru-hike of the Uinta Highline Trail.
Like other top-of-the-line ultralight packs, it uses a durable stretchy mesh front pocket and durable water-resistant fabric. It has a phone pocket and very large size pockets. And my favorite feature is the much-coveted bottom pocket for snacks or trash.
Treeline editor-in-chief Liz "Snorkel" Thomas has thru-hiked the Uinta Highline Trail in Utah and the Colorado Collegiate Loop using the Symbiosis Gear The Aspen ultralight backpacking pack, and appreciates the S-shaped strap.
But what I liked the most about this pack is it just fit and rode well. I've hiked with a lot of frameless packs over the years and The Aspen–a pack that is only available in one torso length–just happens to feel like it's the one that moves the best with me as I hike. Symbiosis Gear says they've had people 5'2" to 6'1" use this pack. I'm 5'8" and love how I can adjust it to ride up on my lower waist, where I prefer to wear my hipbelt.
This is a true minimalist pack so you need to be able to fit all your gear in a 38L pack and have a sub-10-pound base weight. But if you can do that and feel like the other ultralight packs have too much bro energy, then The Aspen is a great alternative.
Gregory Jade 63 Plus Sizes
Best for: Backpacking, plus size hikers
Weight: 4 lbs. 6.7 oz. (size M/L)
Pack volumes available: 28 L (day pack), 63 L
Recommended max capacity: 50 lb
Hip belt: 39 - 60 inches
Torso lengths: 14-17 in
Best for: Backpacking
Weight: 4.4 lbs
Pack volumes available: 63
Recommended max capacity: 50 lbs
Hip belt: 39-60 in
Torso lengths: 15-19 in
Gregory’s Plus Size line is my favorite, and most expansive, line of backpacking and day packs that fit hips up to 60”, or equivalent to a size 6X in apparel.
The Jade 63 is an excellent backpacking pack, especially for hikers looking for a larger carrying capacity and aren’t overly concerned about pack weight. The ventilated back is highly breathable, one of my favorite features as someone who sweats a lot as I move. The tensioned mesh which extends down the full length of the bag feels sturdy and although it creates plentiful space between the bag and my back, the load never feels floaty. The Jade 63 offers up to 3.5” of adjustment, allowing me to find the best fit for my shoulders without losing support.
The Jade also shines in the fit, which is made to fit hips up to 60 inches, or a 6X. This sizing is not found in any other plus size backpacking pack I’ve tested, and I can securely close the bag at the waist and chest with plenty of inches to spare.
While moving over uneven terrain and climbing over downed logs the straps keep the pack secure against me. On a summer backpacking trip in the Wind River Range in Wyoming, Gregory’s FreeFloat hip belt felt cushioned and supportive throughout the hike. I am tall and broad- 5’9 with a wide back and chest, and I often find bags to be much tighter at the chest. With the extra room in the chest belt, I didn’t feel choked by a too tight belt and could instead focus on my hike.
Beyond breathability, fit, and comfortable chest and waist belts, the Jade’s generous pockets and U-Zip front opening are standouts. On the trail, there is almost nothing worse to me than having to remove my bag or ask someone to dig in from the top of the pack. The U-Zip on the Jade is large, revealing the majority of the pack’s interior for easy access. I could comfortably fit my phone, Garmin, chapstick, and other small items in the hip belt.
Though roomier in feeling and appearance, it doesn’t feel too heavy over longer day hikes and weighs in at 2.5lbs when empty. I generally carry a fair amount of items, at least food and water and a first aid kit, on day hikes and they all fit easily into the Jade. It loads from the top and secures with a drawstring and a buckle snap that is adjustable to tighten the bag down. The VaporSpan back panel has ventilated mesh panels that also provides anatomical support. I first tested the Jade in early May in Wyoming, where I shed and added layers as the day got warmer and colder during erratic weather. The ventilation worked excellently, and I didn’t end up with a sweaty back during the warmer parts of the hike.
My favorite part of the Jade lies in the hip belt, which has pockets wide enough for my Iphone 14 and truly left me feeling cradled. Unlike the Arrio, which I still love, the belt fits like my backpacking pack, and the wide width feels ergonomic and supportive, helping me go further for longer. It didn’t cut into my stomach or waist and there was room to spare when closing. The overall fit is equivalent to a 2-6X in clothing size and with many adjustable features at the shoulders and waist make it easy to fit every size in the range. All in all, we hiked ten miles that first testing day and the Jade performed excellently. I’ll be using it for the rest of the summer and probably for much longer than that.
Why you need a women-specific hiking backpack
Treeline Review writer Sonja Lind backpacked the John Muir Trail wearing the Osprey Aura women’s backpacking pack. The Osprey Aura 65 AG Pack is functional, comfortable, spacious, and has great pockets. Women’s-specific backpacks are designed to accommodate wider hips, shorter torsos, and more narrow shoulders, and are adjustable for changing bodies. A more comfortable, tailored fit can make a backpacking trip far more enjoyable than struggling with an ill-fitting pack.
Everyone’s body is different, and a lot of men’s and unisex backpacks do not fit some bodies comfortably. Women’s-specific backpacks are designed to accommodate wider hips, shorter torsos, and more narrow shoulders, and are adjustable for changing bodies. These packs provide better fit, comfort, and performance due to these tailored designs, and can make hiking and backpacking a more enjoyable experience for folks who aren’t quite comfortable in men’s or unisex packs.
What to look for in women’s hiking backpacks
Treeline Review writer Erica Zazo shows off the pockets and organization in the women’s specific Gregory Maya day pack.
What to look for in a women's hiking backpack and women's backpacking backpack is similar to what you'd look for in any backpack. You can see our guide to How to Choose a Backpacking Backpack for more details.
Here, we'll very briefly cover how these specifically apply to women's backpacks.
Capacity
Many women's backpacks have smaller capacity than the "men's" or "unisex" version of the pack. Keep this in mind as you are choosing what volume pack to get and make sure all your stuff will fit inside before you purchase.
Fit and adjustability
Fit and the ability to adjust your pack to fit your body is the most important part of a women's backpack. Many people chose women's backpacks specifically because the unisex or men's version can't fit or feel comfortable on their body. Just because a pack is labeled as "women's" doesn't mean it will work for your body, so be sure that it adjusts and moves with your body and doesn't cause pain.
Back panel and ventilation
We recommend packs that have a good back panel and ventilation. This is true for all packs, not just women's packs. However, one thing to keep in mind with women's packs is how sweaty backpack packs can saturate sports bras straps (for those that hike wearing sports bras). Pretty much every backpack is going to cause a sweaty back, no matter how ventilated it is. Here, the thing to keep in mind is finding a quick drying sports bra. You can learn more in our guide to Best Hiking Sports Bras.
Treeline Review writer and editor Becca Downs backpacking in the Colorado mountains. Photo by Mary Murphy
Pockets and organization
Like any pack, a women's hiking pack should have good pockets and organization.
Hydration system compatibility
As with any backpack, good hydration system compatibility makes your hiking experience more enjoyable.
Durability and materials
Nothing new here, either. A good backpacking backpack should be durable enough to withstand your adventures.
Water resistance or waterproofing
Just with any other backpack, you want a pack with some water resistance. However, keep in mind that almost all backpacks are not fully waterproof. We always recommend using a rain cover or pack liner if you expect inclement weather. You can learn more about how to keep your backpack dry here.
Style and color options
The one thing we can say for women's packs is that there are often some better color options. Find one that you like. After all, the best way to keep gear out of a landfill is to have you find one item you like and to have you keep using it instead of replacing it because you hate how it looks.
Price and value
Find a pack that works within your budget. That being said, we think it is worth spending a little more to choose a pack that actually fits your body. Your gear should make you want to spend more time outdoors, not cause you pain or make you hate hiking.
How should a hiking backpack fit?
Treeline Review writer Gabaccia Moreno wearing the women’s specific Osprey Ariel Plus day pack on the Continental Divide Trail.
Finding a pack that fits your body is the most important way to ensure comfort. Start by measuring torso length, adjusting straps, and ensuring even weight distribution for maximum comfort. Just because you're "always" a medium in shirts or even with a backpack company doesn't mean you'll be the same size with their women’s model of backpack.
When picking out a pack, it is essential to find one that fits your body well and is designed to carry the amount of pack weight you will be carrying.
A good starting point is to determine your base weight (all non-consumable carried gear) and then extrapolate your total carried weight based on trip length and type. Most brands list a total recommended weight capacity for their packs.
Then, if you can, get a fitting done by a professional pack fitter. Most gear shops offer this service, but if that is not feasible, you can check out this video on adequately fitting a backpacking pack.
Part of fitting a pack has to do with how you pack your backpack. You can learn more in our How to Pack a Backpacking Pack guide.
Don’t get a pack just because it’s popular; get it because it’s the best backpack for you.
Care and maintenance of hiking backpacks
Finding a women’s backpack that fits your body well is especially important when you are on rough, rocky terrain like this pass on the Uinta Highline Trail. You’ll really feel the different in stability and balance.
You may not think it matters much, but regular cleaning is essential to keep your hiking daypack in good condition. Luckily, it's pretty simple.
See our cleaning, repair, and maintenance section for more tips.
Daily care
After each hike, empty the pack and shake out dirt, pine needles, empty food wrappers, and old socks. If they hang around in there, it could lead to odors. Believe us. We've learned the hard way.
Wipe the interior and exterior with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt. That's it.
Washing
For a more thorough clean, occasionally submerge the pack in a bathtub or large sink filled with lukewarm water and mild soap. We like Nixwax Tech Wash. If it's really dirty, gently scrub it with a soft brush. Either way, rinse thoroughly, and hang it to air dry, avoiding direct sunlight.
Removing stains
If your daypack has any stains from food, pine sap, or dirt that didn't wash out, using a mild detergent or specialized outdoor gear cleaner works best.
Apply the cleaner with a sponge or soft brush, and rinse well. For the worst stains, let the detergent sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Zippers should be kept clean and free from dirt and debris. Using a toothbrush to clean the teeth and applying a zipper lubricant occasionally will ensure they operate smoothly. You can learn more about how to fix zippers here.
Check your zippers and buckles
Straps and buckles are one of the most common failure spots on a backpack. Check them regularly for wear and tear, and any damaged parts should be replaced to maintain the pack's stability and comfort.
Ironically, extreme outdoor adventures aren't the main cause of failure for buckles. One of the most common ways buckles break is by getting them caught in car doors. Luckily, if they need replacing, they usually only cost a few bucks.
Ensure all straps are properly adjusted and tightened to avoid unnecessary stress on seams and fabric.
Restore Waterproofing
To maintain waterproofing, apply a waterproof spray or treatment periodically, especially if the pack is frequently exposed to wet conditions. Additionally, using a pack cover or dry bags can protect your gear from rain.
How we researched and tested
Treeline Review editors Becca Downs (front) and Mary Murphy (back) testing the Gregory Maven backpacking pack.
We’ve spent the past few years researching and testing women’s specific backpacking packs. There aren’t a ton of them and how a women’s pack fits depends on your body, your needs, and your goals. As a result, we tested by asking Treeline Review writers of different body shapes and different hiking styles to test women’s specific packs. This included taking women’s specific packs on everything from overnight trips to thru-hikes.
Here are the criteria we asked every writer to consider as they were testing:
Comfort
The most important aspect for a women's hiking backpack is comfort. There are plenty of men's and unisex packs out there –and we cover many of them in our Best Day Packs for Hiking guide and Best Lightweight Backpacking Packs guide. In this guide, we tested women’s-specific packs based on how comfortable they were for our unique body types, specifically considering shoulder straps, torso adjustability, and how the pack sits on our hips.
Durability
Durability is important because long-lasting gear means buying less and contributing less to landfills. You also want your gear to withstand the elements while you’re hiking or backpacking, so a pack made of quality materials that won’t easily tear, break down, or break is essential.
We test durability in the field, meaning our testers use their gear over many miles on the trail. We’ve hiked and backpacked with these packs over many trips, seasons, and years.
Usability
If the pack’s design isn’t intuitive, you likely won’t want to use it! We test our gear for how easy it is to access gear at different points in a hike or backpacking trip. How easy is it to access your waterbottle while on the move? Does the pack have useful, accessible pockets for a phone, snacks, and map? Are the adjustable straps effective? And so on.
Why you should trust us / About the authors
To find the best women's hiking and backpacking backpacks, we asked Treeline Review writers of different body shapes and sizes their favorite packs. Our goal was to capture a diverse set of body types and ways of hiking and backpacking so that you, the reader, can find the best type of pack for you.
This is different than many of our other stories, but after asking our staff what we thought would be the most helpful way to find a women's hiking backpack, we decided sharing our experiences as writers who have tested dozens of backpacks was the best way to make this guide most accessible to different types of outdoors people with different body types.
