10 cheap hiking backpacks: Best Value for Money in 2025
When it comes to outdoor adventures, having the right gear can make all the difference. However, the word “cheap” often conjures images of low-quality products.
Fortunately, this isn’t always the case. There are plenty of cheap hiking backpacks on the market that offer excellent value for money without compromising on durability, comfort, and functionality.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best cheap hiking backpacks available in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, you’ll find options that suit your needs and budget.
Why Choose cheap hiking backpacks?
Contrary to popular belief, cheap hiking backpacks can be just as reliable and functional as their more expensive counterparts. Here are some reasons to consider them:
- Affordability: You can save money without sacrificing quality.
- Durability: Many affordable backpacks are made from high-quality materials.
- Versatility: They can be used for a variety of outdoor activities.
- Comfort: Modern designs ensure that even budget-friendly options are comfortable to wear.
Top cheap hiking backpacks for Every Type of Hiker
1. TETON Sports Scout 55 Backpack
Key Features:
- Adjustable torso length
- Compression straps (side and front)
- Adequate storage
- Hydration ready
The TETON Sports Scout 55 Backpack is a favorite among hikers for its comfort and adjustability.
With a 55L capacity, it offers ample storage space, including front and top bungee stashes for quick access to essentials.
The integrated rain cover ensures your gear stays dry, making it ideal for unpredictable weather conditions.
2. The North Face Borealis
Key Features:
- Padded laptop compartment
- Breathable lumbar panel
- Injection-molded shoulder straps
For those who prefer brand-name gear, The North Face Borealis is an excellent choice.
Despite its smaller capacity, it’s perfect for day hikes and offers a padded laptop compartment, making it versatile for both outdoor adventures and daily use.
The breathable lumbar panel and injection-molded shoulder straps ensure comfort during long hikes.
3. Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack
Key Features:
- Adjustable torso suspension
- Reliable compression straps
- Padded straps
The Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack offers great value for money with its innovative design and numerous features.
It’s suitable for a wide range of outdoor adventures, from international travel to weekend hikes.
The adjustable suspension and top and front-loading options make it versatile and easy to use.
4. Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Daypack
Key Features:
- Folds into its own pocket
- Ultralight
- Heavy-duty zippers
Weighing only 0.7 pounds, the Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Daypack is one of the most compact and affordable options available.
It folds into its own pocket, making it easy to carry as a daypack on longer trips.
The nylon construction and heavy-duty zippers ensure durability despite its lightweight design.
5. Outdoor Master Hiking Backpack 50L
Key Features:
- Thick, padded shoulder pads
- Rain cover included
- Water-resistant
The Outdoor Master Hiking Backpack 50L is a practical and affordable option for day hikes and camping trips.
Made from lightweight nylon, it’s durable and water-resistant, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The thick, padded shoulder straps ensure comfort, even with a heavy load.
6. Amazon Basics Hiking Backpack
Key Features:
- Internal frame
- Integrated rain fly
- Separate rain cover
The Amazon Basics Hiking Backpack is a massive and affordable option for multi-day hikes.
With a 65L capacity, it offers ample storage space and a sturdy internal frame for stability.
The integrated rain fly and separate rain cover ensure your gear stays dry, even in heavy rain.
7. Granite Gear Crown 3 60L Backpack
Key Features:
- Lid Chest Pack: Unclip and flip the lid orientation and it becomes a chest pack perfect for keeping items quickly accessible.
- Lid Organization: A stretch mesh lid divider pocket line the bottom of the lid. Keep those important items at reach and organized!
The Granite Gear Crown 3 is an all-new and improved version of its predecessor, offering extreme versatility and comfort.
The fully adjustable Re-Fit hip belt and removable lid make it easy to access the main compartment and distribute the load comfortably.
8. High Sierra Pathway 50L Backpack
Key Features:
- Interior straps
- Shoulder pad
- Chest strap
The High Sierra Pathway 50L Backpack is ideal for hikers who need to carry a lot of gear.
With a large U-shaped zipper opening the front compartment and interior adjustable straps, it keeps your gear organized and easily accessible.
The thick padding ensures comfort during long hikes.
9. N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack
Key Features:
- High-Load Waist Buckle
- Breathable mesh padding
- Innovative design with practical features
The N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack is a versatile and durable option for extended outdoor adventures.
Made of sturdy rip-stop scratch-resistant nylon, it features a streamlined suspension system and breathable mesh padding for comfort and ventilation.
The backpack includes multiple thoughtful pockets, such as two top pockets, a main pocket, a hydration pack pocket, an inner pocket, a mesh pocket for wet clothes, two side pockets for water bottles, two waist pockets for your phone, a separated pocket for a sleeping bag, and a bottom pocket for a rain cover.
10. XMILPAX Large Internal Frame Backpack Tactical MOLLE Pack
Key Features:
- Rugged internal frame
- Padded hip belt
- Adjustable shoulder harness with sternum strap
- MOLLE webbing for attachments
The Large Internal Frame Backpack Tactical MOLLE Pack is a robust and versatile option for camping, backpacking, hunting, and bushcraft adventures.
Made from 1000D polyester fabric, it features a padded hip belt, adjustable shoulder harness with sternum strap, and a narrow pack design for excellent movement in different environments.
The backpack includes a large main compartment, lid compartment, bottom pocket, two front pockets, and two long side zipper closure pockets with utility pockets built in.
The MOLLE webbing allows for the attachment of additional pouches and gear, increasing carrying capacity.
FAQs
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cheap hiking backpacks involves considering the material, comfort, and ventilation. The size and weight of the backpack should match the type and duration of your hike.
Whether you’re a casual hiker or a serious backpacker, there’s a budget-friendly option that meets your needs.
Don’t let the word “cheap” deter you from finding a high-quality, affordable backpack. With the right features and materials, you can enjoy your outdoor adventures without breaking the bank.
