The 10 Best Alpine Backpack Of 2024, Tested By CampFireHQ

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Best Alpine Backpack
Best Alpine Backpack

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Thule Stir Alpine Hiking Backpack

The Thule Stir Alpine 40L Hiking Backpack is built with next-level backcountry adventures in mind. With features like the ice axe loops and integrated helmet holder, this hiking backpack has it all. This lightweight backpack includes the Thule Matrix Suspension System for a comfortable carry and an easy-to-use design. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Lowe Alpine AirZone Active Backpack

The lightweight AirZone Active 18L is a streamlined, streamlined day hiking bag for men and women. Designed for activity, it features a minimalist design that keeps you focused on the mountain. This versatile bag is designed to carry all your essentials while keeping weight in check. Read Review

3. Best Durable: Gregory Mountain Products Denali Alpine Backpack

The Gregory Denali 100 is a technical big-mountain pack that has been carefully engineered to deliver superior performance. The extensive research and real-world expedition testing behind the development of the Denali, make it not only the best technical big-mountain pack we have ever made, but also a valuable addition to your outdoor gear collection. Read Review

4. Best Quality: Lowe Alpine Altus Backpack

The Altus 42L is the perfect size for a day hike or an overnight trip with plenty of space to pack your gear. With top-loading main compartment, side stretch front pocket, and front zipper pocket, it is easy to organize your gear. A removable lid with a rain fly cover keeps everything dry and organized when not in use. Read Review

5. Best Exactly: Lowe Alpine Klettersack Vintage Backpack

This heritage-inspired day pack combines retro styling with essential outdoor and urban features. The padded back carry system with an adjustable chest strap and removable waist belt make it comfortable to wear, while the top loader main compartment, zipped lid pocket, and leather lash points make it versatile for day hikes or around town. Read Review

Backpacking is an activity you can do anywhere, anytime. And when it’s just you out there enjoying nature, that means you have to bring everything with you. That’s where the best alpine backpacks come in.

These backpacks have been designed for those who need to carry heavy loads and spend long periods of time outdoors. They are also comfortable for extended hours of use, especially for people who spend many weekends in the great outdoors. So if you’re looking for a quality backpack for serious backcountry adventures, here are some of the best alpine backpacks available today.

We think the best alpine backpack that is available now is Thule Stir Alpine Hiking Backpack. We also provide you with Lowe Alpine AirZone Active Backpack model that you may consider if the top product is not your choice. And bellow are the helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Thule Stir Alpine Hiking Backpack
Our Score:
9.7
Thule
  • Interior zipped mesh pockets for storing small items
  • Build out your pack for each trip: add and remove components to meet your needs and and reduce pack weight
  • Dedicated external tool garage for securing ice axes, skis, and more
  • Hip Belt loops allow you to access hanging gear easily
  • Underlid compression strap for hanging a climbing rope, jacket or other gear. When lid is removed, storm flap provides weather protection for pack contents
  • Highly weather and abrasion resistant materials stand up to even the extreme adventures
  • Fast-access side zipper allows you to find contents toward the middle and bottom of the pack
  • Shoulder strap stretch pocket for easy access to a snack
  • Hydration compatible design features reservoir sleeve with drink tube exit port (Reservoir sold separately)
TOP Choice #2 Lowe Alpine AirZone Active Backpack
Our Score:
9.5
Lowe Alpine
  • The backpack is constructed from ripstop, weatherproof fabric, and loaded with useful features – easy access front pocket, zipped top pocket, internal zipped security pocket, stretch water bottle side pockets, zipped main compartment, light loop, key clip, and rain cover
  • AirZone LT carry system features a lightweight spring steel frame, and fast-wicking hip fins. Combined, they’ll keep you and your hiking daypack moving even on the most strenuous hikes.
  • Designed for activity, the AirZone Active 18L is a streamlined, lightweight hiking bag for men and women . Compact size also makes it an ideal backpack for travel and city trips. Highly ventilated back minimizes weight for a cool and comfortable carry.
  • For mountain hiking, the durable backpack is fitted with hydration compatibility (3L bladder, not included), side compression straps, TipGripper trekking pole attachments, and a sternum strap with whistle.
  • Pack Specs: Back Length: 18” | 46 CM, Volume: 18lt / 1100cu.in, Weight 0.77kg / 1lb 11oz
TOP Choice #3 Gregory Mountain Products Denali Alpine Backpack
Our Score:
9.3
Gregory
  • IDEAL USES: Mountaineering, Alpine Climbing, Ice Climbing, Ski MountaineeringTouring - WEIGHT: 6.7 lbs. - DIMENSIONS: 36.5" x 13.25" x 11.75"
  • EASY ACCESS TO CRITICAL GEAR: Expedition hipbelt with tubular gear loops, ice clipper slots, and sled pull loops. Single zip hipbelt accessory pocket. Dual front-panel daisy chains. Stowable, adjustable traditional and hammer less ice axe attachments.
  • AMPLE STORAGE TO ORGANIZE YOUR EXPEDITION: Ultra-durable expanding side pockets. Dual-access front panel pocket with zip-away internal divider. Quick-access side zip map / headlamp pocket.
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION & HYDRATION COMPATIBLE: Puncture-resistant dual-layer internally laminated front panel. Internal hydration reservoir sleeve with tube port.
  • TOP LOADING DESIGN & REMOVABLE COMPONENTS: Top-loading design with full-length side slash zip access. Strippable aluminum frame stays, top lid, bivy pad, and hipbelt padding. Removable lid pocket with occipital cutout and security pocket on underside.
4 Lowe Alpine Altus Backpack
Our Score:
9.2
Lowe Alpine
  • Nylon lining
  • Zipper closure
5 Lowe Alpine Klettersack Vintage Backpack
Our Score:
9.1
Lowe Alpine
  • Features a padded back carry system with an adjustable chest strap and removable waist belt for a comfortable carry.
  • For trail and around town, the durable rucksack is compatible with hydration bladder or 15" laptop
  • Top Loader- Convenient top load main compartment, zipped lid pocket, and leather lash points and zip pulls
  • Heritage-inspired day pack, this day backpack for men or women combines retro styling with essential outdoor and urban features
  • Pack Specs: Constructed from Recycled canvas with waterproof bottom. Back Length: 19-21" / 48-53cm, Capacity:30lt / 1830cu.in, Weight:1kg / 2lb 3.2oz
6 Ortovox Peak High Alpine Touring Backpack
Our Score:
9.0
Ortovox
  • Easy Access: Circumferential zipper provides rapid access to the entire contents of the main compartment through the convenient front access
  • Gear Attachments: Fastening options for ski’s both side and diagonal; equipped with snowboard and snowshoe attachment, rope attachment, and ice axe and hiking pole loops
  • Features: Compression strap, gear loops, helmet net, hydrations system compatibility, map compartment, hip pocket, key holder, bottle holder, water-resistant zipper, separate safety compartment, emergency card and chest strap with signal whistle
  • Back System: Swisswool full contact back system fits close to body to offer stability and comfort made from pressed Swiss wool providing mountaineers the benefit of wools unique properties in microclimate management, moisture reduction, and quick drying abilities
  • Use Case: The 35L by volume Ortovox Peak series were designed for alpine tours; thoughtfully designed with tear and abrasion resistant Nylon 420D Manstar and equipped with Ortovox Swisswool full contact back system, offering high stability and great comfort when carrying a heavier load
  • Compressible over-sized crampon pocket with reinforced puncture and tear resistant abrasion Zones
  • Gear loops and ice clipper loops on hip belt
  • A lightweight alloy perimeter frame supports heavy gear loads
  • Top-loading design also offers full side zipper access with a split-top skirt design
  • Dual hybrid ice tool attachments
8 Lowe Alpine AirZone Active Backpack
Our Score:
8.7
Lowe Alpine
  • The backpack is constructed from ripstop, weatherproof fabric, and loaded with useful features – easy access front pocket, zipped top pocket, internal zipped security pocket, stretch water bottle side pockets, zipped main compartment, light loop, key clip, and rain cover
  • Pack Specs: Back Length: 18” | 46 CM, Volume: 22lt / 1340cu.in, Weight 0.78kg / 1lb 11oz
  • The backpack is constructed from ripstop, weatherproof fabric, and loaded with useful features – easy access front pocket, zipped top pocket, internal zipped security pocket, stretch water bottle side pockets, zipped main compartment, light loop, key clip, and rain cover
  • Designed for a day of fast-paced activity, the AirZone Active 22L is a streamlined, lightweight hiking bag for men and women. Highly ventilated back minimizes weight for a cool and comfortable carry on your adventures.
  • AirZone LT carry system features a lightweight spring steel frame, and fast-wicking hip fins. Combined, they’ll keep you and your hiking daypack moving even on the most strenuous hikes.
  • Gear loops and ice clipper loops on hip belt
  • A lightweight alloy perimeter frame supports heavy gear loads
  • Top-loading design also offers full side zipper access with a split-top skirt design
  • Compressible over-sized crampon pocket with reinforced puncture and tear resistant abrasion Zones
  • Dual hybrid ice tool attachments
10 Lowe Alpine Pioneer Retro-Style Backpack
Our Score:
8.3
Lowe Alpine
  • Inspired by alpine summits, the retro styled Pioneer 26 liter day pack is based on original Lowe brothers design from the early eighties
  • Convenient zipped ‘bucket’ style opening compartment, internal organiser with zipped pocket, and leather lash points and zip pulls
  • Features a padded back carry system with an adjustable chest strap and removable waist belt for a comfortable carry.
  • For trail and around town, the durable rucksack is compatible with hydration bladder or 15" laptop
  • Pack Specs: Constructed from Recycled canvas with waterproof bottom. Back Length: 19-21" / 48-53cm, Volume:26lt / 1585cu.in, Weight:0.87kg / 1lb 15oz

What to Look For in a best alpine backpack?

Upon looking for the perfect best alpine backpack, a lot of things should be taken into account. Each item has its own challenge of purchasing.  As a result of the formation, we're here to help, advise, and provide answers to these problems.

Please keep in mind the following points to select best alpine backpack that fit you most:

Hydration Compatibility

Daypacks and backpacks can be used with hydration systems. However, most require you to purchase a water hydration system. This can be costly. You can save money by choosing backpacks that have mesh sides and are able to hold water bottles.

Weight

Because you don't have as many gear, food or water, a daypack weighs less than a multiday backpack. It's always a good idea to have less weight but don't sacrifice your safety. A daypack should not collapse when it's packed. It should ride on your hips, and not your shoulders. You should look for bags that are 40 oz or less. This is a reasonable weight that will still give you plenty of options.

Capacity

What size should my daypack be? Daypacks come in a range of sizes, from 20L to 35L. The length of the hike and how many layers and clothing you will need to keep you safe from rain, snow, wind and other hazards determine which size backpack you should purchase. A smaller backpack can be sufficient for half-day hikes. However, we suggest a larger size for longer hikes and peak bagging. We also recommend the 30-35L range to transport extra water, food layers, water, as well as the 10 Essentials.

Hip Belts

The amount of padding provided by daypack hip belts varies. Some daypacks come without a hip belt, others have a webbing strap and some include pockets and padding. Hip belts that are simple and unpadded are meant to prevent a daypack's bounce against your hips or back while you walk. However, hip belts with more padding can shift the weight to your hips. A padded hip belt should be fitted correctly. For more information, see our article: How should a backpack hip belt fit? For a more detailed explanation, please visit our article How Should a Backpack Hip Belt Fit?

Ventilation

A ventilated backpack can increase airflow to your back if you are prone to sweating or hiking in humid conditions. You can feel a big difference in how comfortable you are by having your back and shirt cool. There are many options for backpack ventilation. Some backpacks have an airflow-enhancing mesh cavity. They work well. Others have air channels between the foam cutouts or back padding to promote airflow.

Pockets And Organization

Most backpacks have a distinct design that makes them different. Many backpacks feature open pockets which are vulnerable to the elements, and close pockets to protect items. For items that are frequently used, such as a jacket or sweater, snacks, or water filters, open pockets can be useful. It's not a good idea to have to reach into your bag every time you want one of these items. You can also store damp items in open pockets. They dry quickly and won't dampen the backpack. Closed pockets, including the main compartment are great for keeping items that you don't use as often but want dry and protected. These pockets will be found in most backpacks.

Adjustable Length

Like clothing, backpack sizing is a key factor in how comfortable a daypack will feel. The torso length is the measurement between the bottom of your shoulder blades and your hips. A daypack can be resized to fit you perfectly with an adjustable-length backpack. It's like having a tailored suit. This is a very attractive feature. The fixed length backpack is sized for a wide range of body lengths. This can lead to a tight fit, especially if you have a longer torso. Beginner day hikers should consider purchasing an adjustable-length backpack to allow them to experiment with various torso sizes and find the right fit.

Rain Cover

A lot of daypacks come with a raincover, so you don't have to buy one individually. You can cover your daypack with plastic bags, but they won't protect your valuables in the small pockets on the top.

FAQs

Are You Going To Hike?

A daypack is essential for everyday hiking. A day pack should be small, lightweight, sturdy and durable, as well as able to withstand a variety of weather conditions.

What Is A Day Pack?

The daypack, which is often lighter than a larger backpack but still big enough to carry essentials on short hikes and overnight trips is the smaller variant of the large backpack.

What Should I Pack In My Day Pack?

It will all depend on the purpose of the daypack, however, if you're using it for hiking we suggest a spare set of clothes, water and snacks as well as a first-aid kit.

What Size Pack Do I Need For A 5-Day Hike?

Around 60L backpack. If you go below this, it will be difficult to carry your backpack.

Does A Daypack Have A Frame Or Not?

While some daypacks have frames, others don't. A frame is required only if the backpack is carrying heavy loads. Frames can transfer weight from the shoulders to your hips (hip belt), and also increase the overall backpack's weight.

What Size Is A Daypack?

A daypack typically has a volume between 20 and 35 liters. Daypacks are best for short hikes, but they can be useful for longer hikes.

What Is The Difference Between A Daypack And A Backpack?

Daypacks can be considered backpacks but they are not all daypacks. Daypacks are small, lightweight backpacks that can be used for short trips.

The list of best alpine backpack will be regularly updated to be included in additional data by our editor's team. Please keep an eye around for any amendments made to our website.

Our consultants could support you with problems related to best alpine backpack and other things as well. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you need advice.


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

Read Hailey's full bio