Best Hiking Backpacks for Women of 2024

For women who crave adventure, conquering mountain trails and exploring hidden wilderness is an exhilarating pursuit. But an ill-fitting backpack can quickly turn a dream hike into a frustrating struggle. Here’s where understanding the best women’s hiking backpacks becomes crucial.

This comprehensive guide empowers you to choose the perfect pack for your needs, ensuring maximum comfort, support, and freedom of movement on every outdoor adventure. Dive deeper and discover:

Best Hiking Backpacks for Women in 2024

• Deuter Aircontact Lite 45+10L – Functional, adaptable and sophisticated
• Osprey Ariel AG 55 Picante Red – Combined with comfort, practicality and stability
• Millet UBIC 30L – Very comfortable design and versatile
• Gregory Women’s Deva 80 – Best ultralight hiking Pack for women
• Deuter AC Lite 22 L Aubergine Fire – Designed for short getaways at a low price
• Millet Hanang 55+10 L – Ergonomic and innovative design
• Solomon Out Night 28+5 – Excellent lightness and adaptability
• Osprey Tempest Women Hiking Pack – Best value for the money
• Gregory Maya 10 – 10-liter hydration-compatible pack
• Lafuma Access 40 – Large and complete hiking backpack for women

1. Deuter Aircontact Lite 45+10L – Best Overall

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 45+ 10L
• Expandable: Yes: +10 L
• Weight: 1 kg 700
• Material: 100D PA (high tenacity) and 600D PES (Polyester )
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Padded foam
• Use: Trekking and long-distance hiking
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Hydration system compatibility: Compatible with a 3L water bottle/bladder
• Accommodation conditions: Total autonomy/partial autonomy

Despite its high price, the Deuter AirContact Lite 45 + 10 L is ideal if you plan to go on a long excursion in difficult conditions. This model has a capacity of 45L, but it is also available in 35L, 50L and 60L. They are all expandable by an additional 10L, which is ideal to adapt to longer or shorter excursions.

This model has an innovative AirContact back system that ensures optimal ventilation and a perfect balance between comfort, weight and ventilation. It is designed to work with the Deuter Streamer 3.0 liter Reservoir for easy hydration on your hikes. Due to its large volume, this backpack can withstand heavy loads.

It is made of the following materials: 100D PA and 600D PES, otherwise known as Polyester, which are rain-resistant components. Having an SL cut, this pack is ideally designed for the female anatomy. According to your desire, this model is available in three colors: green, gray and red.

Do you want to be independent in your excursion? You do not want to depend on accommodation to meet your primary needs? This pack is ideal because you can comfortably attach your sleeping equipment and other necessary equipment to it and thus enjoy a 100% outdoor excursion.

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2. Osprey Ariel AG 55 Picante Red – Runner-up

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 55L
• Expandable: No
• Weight: 2 kg 190
• Material: 210 D Nylon
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Stretched suspended net
• Use: Trekking and long-distance hiking
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Hydration system compatibility: Yes
• Accommodation conditions: Total autonomy/partial autonomy

The Ariel AG 55 is the benchmark women’s backpack for trekking and long-distance hiking. This model is integrated with an Antigravity back protector, which offers optimal comfort and ventilation. Its hanging stretched mesh carrying system is specially designed for women.

Indeed, it is equipped with an abdominal belt, shoulder straps, and an ergonomic back panel, which adapts perfectly to the female morphology. Also, it has compression straps to make it more compact and to adapt its volume according to its filling. This pack is made of 210D Nylon, which makes it able to carry heavy loads. It is also resistant to rain and snow.

Ariel AG 55 hiking backpack has multiple exterior storage options, such as the attachment of trekking poles, “Stow-on-the-go”, stretch mesh side pockets with “InsideOut” compression, or even other attachment points for carrying with you the necessary equipment (sleeping bag, etc.). This model is available in 55L and 66L, but unlike the previous one, it is not expandable.

In summary, if you are traveling quite loaded and you intend to do long treks, the Ariel AG 55 hiking bag is made for you. This model is also available in three colors: gray, red and purple.

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3. Millet UBIC 30L Black – Versatile

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 30L
• Expandable: No
• Weight: 1 kg 210
• Material: N 210d honey comb 3line and 100% polyamide
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Padded foam
• Use: Day hikes, short trips, ski touring
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Air system compatibility hydration: Yes
• Accommodation conditions: Nights in a refuge

The Millet brand UBIC 30L backpack is ideal for your short mountain getaways. It has ergonomic, versatile and innovative design, thanks to its Varilopp system. What is Varilopp? It is a system that is removable and adjustable by the presence of reinforced straps. It allows the carrying of various alpine equipment, such as skis, ice axes, poles, snowshoes, and mattresses.

This hiking backpack is compatible with a hydration system and with a rain cover, which provides additional protection against rain. Its ventilated EVA padded foam carrying system ensures optimal comfort and good breathability during walking while being adapted to the female morphology.

Its main materials are N 210d honeycomb 3line and polyamide, which have been waterproofed with a durable water-repellent treatment. In addition, a bag poncho is integrated into it, which allows it to be covered quickly and efficiently in the event of a shower.

Do you want to buy the best hiking backpack for women at a good price-quality ratio? This is the pack you need. The spacious, elastic mesh pocket in the front is perfect for keeping a fleece or jacket. The 30L capacity allows you to bring the necessary for a day hike. This hiking bag is available in three colors: grey, green and blue.

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4. Gregory Women’s Deva 80 – Ultralight

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 80L
• Expandable: No
• Weight: 2 kg 400
• Material: Polyamide and polyester
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Stretched suspended net
• Use: Hiking, travel
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Hydration system compatibility: Yes
• Accommodation conditions: Total autonomy/partial autonomy

If you plan to go on long hikes and are not traveling lightly, the Gregory Deva 80 Pack is ideal. It is designed to accompany you during long treks (hiking, traveling). Its hanging stretched net carrying system allows you to carry relatively heavy loads while enjoying carrying comfort thanks to its integrated foam.

It is made of polyamide and polyester, which are relatively resistant and waterproof. The Auto Angle Adjust hipbelt and shoulder harness conform to your individual body shape, ensuring a customized fit whenever you put on the pack.

Gregory Women’s Deva 80 hiking backpack provides you with good storage and has several exterior compartments (bottle holder, ice ax/pole holder) and an interior at the bottom compartment. It is also compatible with a hydration system. When purchasing, you are provided with a rain cover, which will serve as additional protection in the event of a downpour.

In addition, it is composed of a back ventilation system to ensure you all the necessary comfort even in very hot conditions. With its 4 lbs. 16.75 oz. weight and a volume of 80L, it is considered a light backpack. This model is an excellent investment in terms of quality and durability. Depending on your desires, this model is available in two colors: green and blue.

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5. Deuter AC Lite 22 L Aubergine Fire – Affordable

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 22L
• Expandable: No
• Weight: 900 grams
• Material: Dynajin 210
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Stretched suspended net
• Use: Day hikes, short trips, ski touring
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Hydration system compatibility: Yes
• Accommodation conditions: Nights in a refuge

The objective of Deuter’s AC Lite hiking backpack is to guarantee its users maximum comfort with a quality product. The brand took into account the inconveniences likely to be encountered by the walker and wished to resolve them.

With AC Lite, you can say goodbye to excess weight in the shoulders, discomfort in the lower neck, back or chest, and excessive sweating at the contact between your back and the bag. Thanks to its lightweight design, an Aircomfort back with a suspended stretched net and a deliberately shortened back length to fit perfectly with the female morphology.

It is made of DynaJin 210, which is waterproof and durable. To further protect your equipment, a rain cover is incorporated into the backpack. The interior of the bag is divided into 5 pockets, so it allows for ventilated and organized storage. It also has docking loops for the helmet holder.

Depending on your needs and the nature of your getaway, the bag is equipped with external hooks specially designed for pole holders. Also, if you plan to integrate a water pocket, it is quite possible. Because the backpack has a place specially designed for this equipment.

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6. Millet Hanang 55+10 L – Innovative Hiking Pack

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 55+10 L
• Expandable: Yes: +10L
• Weight: 2 kg 420
• Material: Polyamide and polyester
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Stretched suspended net
• Use: Hiking and trekking
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Hydration system compatibility: No 
• Accommodation conditions: Total autonomy / partial autonomy

Do you want to get a heavy-duty hiking pack for long-term use? Then the Hanang 55+ 10 L backpack from the Millet brand is undoubtedly the model you are looking for. It’s made with special 3D Ariaprene foam that’s both breathable and shaped for comfort against your back. This helps stabilize and evenly distribute weight.

Its main advantage lies in its adjustable adjustment system at the back, providing a 100% ergonomic carry to the user. Its capacity is expandable and can vary from 55 L to 65 L in a single gesture. It can therefore accompany you during your getaways, whether longer or shorter and adjust according to its load.

The Hanang women’s hiking backpack is equipped with compartments and accessories that ensure ease during your trip. It has a removable flap that can be extended and transformed into an individual bag. This feature is ideal if you are on a trek and want to separate the wet from the dry, or the dirty from the clean.

You can place this equipment in the hat of the bag, detach it from its assembly, and hang it as a banana or satchel. In addition, its U-shaped access allows you to quickly and easily reach the items you need. Its components are waterproof and resistant. It can accompany you in all weather conditions.

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7. Solomon Out Night 28+5 – Multi-functional

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 28+5 L
• Expandable: Yes: +5L
• Weight: 742 grams
• Material: Polyamide and polyester
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Padded foam
• Use: Mountain hiking
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Hydration system compatibility: Yes
• Accommodation conditions: Nights in refuge

The OUTNIGHT hiking backpack from the Salomon brand is specifically designed for women and more particularly sporty women. Its 28L capacity can be increased to 33L thanks to the presence of a removable 5L flap. If you want to embark on a weekend adventure, this bag is ideal for you.

The Outnight has a large number of exterior storage and attachments, such as a pole holder, ice ax, and other accessories. Also, it is compatible with a hydration system and therefore allows you to place a pocket of water there. This can be very useful in the event of long hikes or hot weather.

To ensure optimal comfort during your walks, it is equipped with a Motion Fit harness system, which gives you stability and freedom of movement. The advantage of this bag is based on its multifunction side.

If you are in the case where you do not yet know which activity to practice, or that you practice several, this is undoubtedly the model for you. It can accompany you both during a hike in the mountains with its grips, and during the summer with its ventilation and hydration system.

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8. Osprey Tempest – Good Value

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 30 L
• Expandable: No
• Weight: 1 kg 190
• Material: 100D x 210D Bluesign Recycled Robic Nylon
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Suspended stretched net
• Use: All outdoor activities
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Hydration system compatibility: Yes
• Accommodation conditions: Nights in a refuge

The Osprey Tempest 30 is an ultra-light hiking backpack with weight of 860 grams, specially designed for women. With its capacity of 30 L, it can contain the necessary equipment for day hikes or weekend getaways.

With its suspended stretched net, shoulder straps and foam waistband, it prevents the accumulation of perspiration by ensuring good back ventilation. In addition to being foam, the load lifter straps and chest straps are adjustable and ergonomic. They therefore promise optimal carrying comfort.

On the compartment side, it has multiple pockets to ensure simple and organized storage, such as the main compartment, an expandable front pocket, two pockets on the side sides as well as on the belt and many others.

Again, the Osprey Tempest hiking pack is equipped with numerous accessories such as the pole holder on the front, the ice ax holder on the back, the pocket on the shoulder straps, the possibility of folding down the compression straps, the fixing of the LEDs in the back, and even a carrying handle.

It is made of Nylon, which is an ultra-resistant material to handle heavy loads as well as rain and humidity. It can definitely be your ideal travel companion for all your outdoor adventures, summer or winter.

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9. Gregory Maya 10 – Small and Compact

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 10 L
• Expandable: No
• Weight: 600 grams
• Material: 210D Honeycomb Cryptorip HD Nylon
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Stretched suspended net
• Use: Day hike
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Hydration system compatibility: Yes
• Accommodation conditions: Day

The Maya 10 L from Gregory is a lightweight, breathable, and flexible hiking backpack for women. It is designed with the idea of ​​being the all-terrain bag par excellence, to accompany you on short day hikes.

Despite its limited capacity of 10 L, it is sufficient for excursions of a few hours. It is compatible with a hydration pocket. As we mentioned on several times, it is an essential element for walks in summer or in an environment subject to strong heat.

This model is equipped with a Sunglass QuickStow system. It is an elastic system on the straps, allowing you to have your pair of sunglasses within reach while being able to store them without fear of scratching the lenses. With its taut net suspended, it provides excellent carrying comfort and optimal ventilation to prevent the accumulation of perspiration on the back.

Gregory Maya hiking pack is made of Nylon, which is a quality component, waterproof, and relatively resistant in terms of loads. It has a stick attachment and a signal whistle on the belt. On the storage side, despite its limited volume, it has internal and external pockets (front, side, and easy access to the water bottle).

Finally, this hiking backpack is equipped with a compression system making it more compact and adaptable according to its load.

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10. Lafuma Access 40 – Huge Capacity

Tech Specs:

• Capacity: 40 L
• Expandable: No
• Weight: 1 kg 100
• Material: 100% Polyester
• Waterproof: Yes
• Carrying: Stretched suspended net
• Use: Day hikes and mountains
• Ventilation system: Yes
• Hydration system compatibility: Yes
• Accommodation conditions: Nights in refuge

Introducing our last choice in the top 10 best hiking backpacks for women in 2024: a mix of helpful features, comfy fit, and great looks that will make your outdoor trips even more enjoyable. It doesn’t matter if you want to go on a day or multi-day hike, the LAFUMA ACCESS 40 backpack is ideal.

It is equipped with multiple accessories, allowing you to travel with all the necessary equipment. Its straps, belt, and back size are ergonomic and perfectly adapted to the female morphology. For added security, the back of the backpack is made of reflective material to allow you to be better seen at night or in low visibility (in foggy weather, for example). The carrying system is made of a ventilated and comfortable foam.

Regarding the compartmentalization of the storage space, the ACCESS 40 backpack is equipped with several external storage spaces such as an attachment system for a pair of poles, a pocket on the belt, on the flap, or the sides. It has four side compression straps that allow the bag to be compacted as much as possible and therefore eliminate unnecessary vacuum.

It is mainly composed of Polyester, which is waterproof and resistant to heavy loads. In addition, a Rain Cover is integrated into the bag, which provides complete protection against bad weather. Did this model convince you? Note that it is available in two colors: blue and green.

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Best Women’s Hiking Backpack: Your Complete Guide

Choosing the best women’s hiking backpack involves considering several key factors to ensure comfort, functionality, durability, and suitability for your specific needs. Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:

Understanding the Key Differences

Unlike their male counterparts, women’s hiking backpacks are designed with a shorter torso length, narrower shoulders, and a curved hip belt to better fit the female form. These key differences ensure a more natural fit, preventing uncomfortable pressure points and maximizing weight distribution.

Essential Features for Women’s Hiking Backpacks

• Torso Adjustability: A pack with an adjustable torso length allows for a personalized fit, ensuring the shoulder straps rest comfortably on your shoulders and the hip belt sits snugly on your hips.
• Ventilated Back Panel: Look for breathable mesh on the back panel to promote airflow and prevent sweat build-up, keeping you cool and comfortable during strenuous hikes.
• Supportive Hip Belt: A well-padded and adjustable hip belt transfers weight from your shoulders to your hips, alleviating shoulder strain and offering better stability on uneven terrain.
• Load-Lifter Straps: These straps help adjust the center of gravity of the pack, pulling the weight closer to your back for improved balance and comfort.

Top Considerations When Choosing Your Pack:

• Pack Size: Consider the length of your hikes. Daypacks generally range from 15-25 liters, while backpacking packs can go up to 60 liters or more.
• Weight: Lighter weight is ideal, but prioritize features and comfort over shaving off every ounce.
• Compartments: Look for a pack with easy-to-access compartments for essentials like water bottles, snacks, and navigation tools.
• Material: Durable materials like nylon or polyester with a water-resistant coating will withstand harsh weather.

Additional Features

• Compatibility with Hydration System: Hydration is crucial while hiking, and an integrated water bladder in your backpack allows for seamless drinking on the go.
• Compression System: This feature is essential to reduce the volume by removing the vacuum. It provides you with a more compact and less bulky bag. There are two compression systems: elastic or with straps. The system with elastic is lighter but less resistant to straps.
• Stick Holder/Ice Axe Holder: This feature integrated into your hiking backpack is essential if you plan to go on mountain excursions. They will also allow you to hang your sleeping bag, carpet, sneakers, etc., and save space inside your backpack.
• Reflective Device: Equipping your hiking backpack with a reflective device will allow you to gain safety, especially in a dark environment with little visibility.
• Integrated Whistle: You can also equip yourself with a whistle integrated into your bag to signal your presence if you get lost on a hike or injured and unable to move to seek help.

The costs

Depending on the type of backpack, its specificities and functionalities, as well as its load capacity, you will find models for purchase on sale at prices between $40 and $350. Set a budget range based on your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there specific backpacks designed for petite hikers?

Yes, some brands offer backpacks with smaller frames and shorter torso lengths to better suit petite individuals. These models often provide a more comfortable and secure fit.

What’s the importance of a hydration system in a hiking backpack?

A hydration system allows you to carry water in a reservoir with a hose and bite valve for easy sipping while on the move. This promotes regular hydration and eliminates the need to stop and unpack a water bottle.

What size backpack do I need for day hikes vs. multi-day treks?

Day hikes require a pack between 15-25 liters. This size comfortably carries essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a rain jacket. For multi-day adventures, you’ll need a larger pack (40-60 liters or more) to accommodate additional gear like sleeping bags, tents, and cooking supplies.

What materials should I consider for durability and weather resistance?

Choose a backpack made from high-quality nylon or polyester with a water-resistant coating. This ensures your gear stays protected from light rain or unexpected showers on the trail. Some backpacks might also have a rain cover included for additional protection in heavy downpours.

How do I properly adjust and wear a women’s hiking backpack?

• Adjust the shoulder straps, hip belt, and chest strap to distribute weight evenly and ensure a snug fit.
• Pack heavier items closer to your back and towards the bottom of the pack.
• Use compression straps to secure the load and prevent shifting while hiking.
• Make sure the backpack sits comfortably on your hips, with the weight resting on your hips rather than your shoulders.

Can I use a unisex or men’s hiking backpack instead of a women’s-specific one?

While it’s possible to use a unisex or men’s hiking backpack, a women’s-specific design will likely provide a more comfortable and ergonomic fit, especially for long hikes or heavy loads. It’s recommended to try on different styles and sizes to find the best fit for your body.

How do I care for and maintain a women’s hiking backpack?

• Clean the backpack regularly with a mild detergent and water, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Avoid overloading the pack beyond its recommended capacity to prevent strain on the seams and zippers.
• Store the backpack in a cool, dry place when not in use, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or moisture.
• Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed straps or loose stitching, and repair them promptly to extend the backpack’s lifespan.

Final Thoughts

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to choose a pack that offers unparalleled comfort, support, and functionality, transforming every hike into a joyful and empowering experience. Each backpack in our selection is chosen for its exceptional performance in specific categories, guaranteeing you’ll have a reliable companion for your hiking adventures. Remember, the best backpack is the one that fits your body and complements your hiking style.

See Also…

• Best Waterproof Hiking Backpacks (Top 5 Picks)
• Hiking Backpacks Under $100 – (Expert Guide)
• How to pack a backpack for hiking?