How much should you spend on a hiking backpack?

If you are looking to get into hiking or backpacking but need a backpack, the first thing you will look for is the price. After all, you know what you can and cannot spend. Plus, you do not want to spend too much on a hobby you don’t know if you will enjoy. But how much should you expect to spend on a hiking backpack?

If you are a rookie backpacker looking to test the waters, aim for $100 or less for your first hiking backpack. At this price point, you can find a pack that offers enough to gage your interest. And if you are an experienced backpacker, plan to spend north of $200 for a pack that suits your needs.

However, feel free to expand your search outside these ranges. But if you are looking for a hiking backpack on a budget, I put together this list of 5 contenders for best hiking backpack under $100.

And if you need help putting together a backpacking list without breaking the bank, check out my article on how to start backpacking for under $200.

For reference, I started with an Outdoor Products Arrowhead backpack that cost $40 and now use a Granite Gear Crown2 60.

How much should you spend on a daypack?

A daypack is a hiking backpack with less capacity than a backpacking pack, with volumes typically ranging from 15 to 35 liters. Given the size difference, how much should you spend on a daypack?

Daypacks can be purchased starting around $15. However, expect to pay $40-$60 for a good, quality daypack, like the REI Flash 22 or the Osprey Daylite Cinch Pack. One at this price point will prove of value for both rookie and veteran hikers alike.

You can also find daypacks that cost $200+, like the Osprey Archeon. Daypacks that cost this much are more like backpacking packs with smaller volumes, but still maintain some features of the bigger packs.

How to buy a hiking backpack for less

Many packs can be bought for a cheaper price, usually due to less features, lower quality, brand, or any combination of these. That isn’t to say you can’t find a great, budget-friendly pack on Amazon but be wary when buying one online and research them extensively. Also, make sure whoever is selling them has a good return policy because the backpack may not fit as well as you like, or it just may not be the right pack for you.

If you are willing to purchase a used hiking backpack, then check out eBay. However, make sure to research what you are buying and be sure it is coming from a reputable seller. An even better option is to check out REI’s used gear section on their website for some potentially awesome deals.

Purchasing a cheaper backpack and cheaper gear in general may be the best option if you are just wanting to test the waters with backpacking. Or if you know an avid hiker or backpacker, ask if you can borrow their gear for a test run.

Or perhaps you just need to ease the financial burden by making payments on a hiking backpack. If this is you, then check out backcountry.com where you can typically make 4 bi-weekly payments on most gear!

Can you rent a hiking backpack?

REI offers a rental program for all things hiking and camping for very reasonable rates. You can even rent an entire backpacking setup. Your local outfitter stores may also have rental options, so give them a call and see what they offer before committing to a purchase.

What if you buy the wrong backpack?

Are you nervous about a potential hiking backpack purchase? Well, this is where REI shines against most of the competition.

REI offers a return policy that allows you to return gear that just doesn’t work for you for up to an entire year! They understand that people can’t really know if their purchased gear is right for them unless you try it out in the field. Therefore, buying from REI is always a great choice before Amazon. Not to mention, if you become a member (a one-time fee applies), you get dividends for the purchases you make that can go towards your next gear purchase.

So, if you are ready to get your feet wet with hiking or backpacking, don’t fret how much money you should or shouldn’t spend. Take your time, don’t rush your decision, and as long as you do your research, you are sure to end up with a backpack that will serve you well for years to come on your future treks.