Hiking Packs
16 Products
16 Products
16 Products
Hiking Backpacks at The North Face
Like all our TNF clothing and outdoor gear, our hiking packs are designed with durable, abrasion-resistant, and cutting-edge materials you can rely on time and time again.
Our useful selection of hiking backpacks include an array of features like bungee cord storage, side water bottle pockets, laptop sleeves, quick-draw smartphone access, and more. Your backpacks for hiking have never been more versatile, spacious, and long-lasting.
Whether you’re looking for a lightweight hiking pack for short hikes or want something small and versatile for social occasions and fun workouts, we have plenty of options here. Check out our sling bags and lumbar packs for a small yet spacious hiking pack you can style with an array of casual and active outfits.
If you’re looking for a more traditional backpack for hiking, school, work, and beyond, try our mini backpacks. Compact, robust, and available in an array of colors and styles, these small hiking packs have plenty of space for your hiking and day-to-day essentials.
For day trips and multi-day adventures, our 50L hiking packs and technical packs are ideal. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling across rocky mountains or forest trails, our packs are well suited for all types of terrain. With spacious interiors, cinch straps to compress large loads, padded shoulder straps, and more, they’re designed with comfort and practicality in mind.
If you’re looking for more options to bring on your outdoor adventure, we have more accessories to discover. There’s nothing as reliable as our selection of backpacking packs and camping gear. Our accessories and gear can be used on trips, family hikes, and overnight adventures.
From warm layers and women's slippers to snacks and waterproof clothing for changing weather conditions, there’s virtually nothing you can’t fit in these large backpacks for hiking. Plus, with plenty of carefully placed pockets and compartments built into the design, you’ll have quick and easy access to all your small and large hiking essentials.
How big of a hiking backpack do I need?
- For multi-day excursions, try a durable technical pack that is super lightweight like the Terra 55 Backpack.
- If you're headed out on a day trip, a smaller daypack like our Top Loader DayPack is ideal for camping (or commuting) on a daily basis.
- If you need to really go the distance, a large or extra-large backpack is built to comfortably take on larger hauls. Try the Griffin 75 Backpack on for size.
How much should hiking backpacks weigh?
A fully loaded hiking backpack should not exceed 10% of your body weight. If you're in it for the long-haul with a multi-day backpacking trip, your fully loaded pack should not exceed 20% of your body weight when you hit the trail.
Generally, we recommend picking the lightest backpack possible that meets your needs. The lighter the backpack construction, the more space there is for you to store all of your essential gear while on the go.
What kind of backpack will you bring in hiking situations?
The type of backpack you pick will depend on a few factors, namely the length of your trip, how much gear you are likely to carry, and your own personal preference regarding size and weight distribution.
- If you tend to multitask to the max, go for a simple Top-Loader Daypack that's durable and built to handle anything life throws your way.
- If you're looking to level up your hiking gear, go for a state-of-the-art pack that's literally built to go the distance. Plus, the top-notch Griffin 75 Backpack comes in multiple sizes so you can find the perfect fit in minutes.
- For the young hikers in your life, we've also got plenty of options for little adventurers. Our Kids Sprout Backpack is specifically designed for toddlers who love to explore.
What color backpack for hiking is best?
When you're out in the wilderness, bright colors are a must-have if you're trekking alone. We recommend bright orange, bold red, or rich blue hues that will make you easy to spot while tackling the trailhead.
Of course, it also all comes down to style. If you're looking to move from work to the weekend with ease, a more simple color scheme (and professional daypack) may be more your thing. While we offer classic hiking packs that are built for adventure, and also have more modern hiking backpacks that are packed with functional extras with a sleek look.
I don't know how to pack a backpack. What do I do?
- Stay on top of your essentials: make sure to keep all of the gear you need to use on repeat at the top of your back where it is easily accessible while on the move.
- Meet in the middle with heavier gear: experts suggest storying your heaviest gear, tools, and other essentials in the middle of the pack to make it easier to distribute the weight and stay centered while on the trail.
- Store bulky items towards the bottom: the denser gear can be stored near the bottom of your pack. From tents to your spare pair of hiking boots, store anything you don't use daily at the bottom.
Flexibility is key. Also, keep the length of your trek in mind.
I don't know how to make hiking backpacks lighter. Any tips?
- Be wary of too much water: Monitor the amount of water you carry on your back. Try out collapsible water bottles or a portable water filter to stay hydrated on the trail.
- Your wardrobe may weigh you down: Make sure to pack light when it comes to clothes. Multi-purpose combinations are a smart way to avoid too many layers that will weigh you down. In the winter months, one or two sets of thermal fabrics are way more valuable than a couple of t-shirts to keep you comfortable.
- Weather is important, too: if you're hiking in the winter, prioritize thermal layers and other gear that is sure to keep you warm while on the trail.
- Multitask with your gear: try out a tent that is super light and easy to pack up for any expedition.
I don't know how to properly wear a hiking backpack. What do I do?
- Adjust your load as needed: many of our packs boast a patent-pending Dyno Lift System that doesn't add weight. The best part? If features self-equalizing adjustable load lifters to take unwanted weight off your shoulders.
- Hip belts are super helpful: shop a backpack that has a comfortable molded hip belt to add a little extra support when wearing your pack.
- Go ahead, clip it: help redistribute the weight of your gear with a sternum strap that will bring your straps closer together, and help release some tension in your neck and shoulders.
I don't know how to organize a hiking backpack. Can you help?
When organizing a hiking backpack, experts recommend the following:
- Bottom of the pack: Store bulky gear towards the bottom of your backpack. (Make sure it's stuff you won't need access to right away)
- Middle of the pack: then, place heavier items in the middle to better control weight distribution when you're summiting the peak.
- Top of the pack: store the essentials you'll need to use frequently while chasing that sunset towards the top of your stuff. The key to a happy trek is hands-free access to a mid-afternoon snack, right?
- Stay in the loop: don't forget, you can also strap any extras to the outside of your pack using additional storage loops and clips. If the weather is heating up on the trail, you can totally loop your jacket through the outside of your pack for safekeeping.
Whether you tackle the trail or your to-do list, smart storage is key.
Explore our extensive range of hiking packs now to find the perfect bag for your next adventure. For more hiking and camping essentials, check out our footwear, bags, and gear. You can also shop by activity to find hiking clothing and gear for men and women selected by our TNF experts. You can trust in our quality and durability for a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure. For timeless TNF outdoor gear you can wear season after season, remember to check out our Icons collection and related categories below, too.