The Best Backpacks at REI’s Biggest Sale of the Year
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or gearing up for a multi-day trek through the mountains, finding the right backpack can make or break your adventure. The right pack keeps your essentials organized, your back comfortable, and your hands free to snap photos, navigate trails, or simply soak in the scenery. But quality hiking backpacks often come with a hefty price tag—until now.
REI’s Biggest Sale of the Year is here, and it’s the perfect opportunity to score premium hiking backpacks at prices that won’t drain your travel fund. From compact daypacks for quick hikes to multi-day expedition packs built to carry everything you need, this year’s selection includes top brands like Osprey, The North Face, Patagonia, and REI’s own trusted lineup. We’ve rounded up the best hiking backpacks available right now, so you can find the perfect companion for your next adventure without the usual sticker shock.
Editor’s Picks
Women’s Traverse 60 Pack
This women-specific pack delivers 60 liters of carrying capacity with a suspension system designed for comfort on extended backcountry trips.
Adjustable torso length and padded hip belt ensure a custom fit that distributes weight evenly across your frame.
How to wear it
- Perfect for multi-day backpacking trips through national parks and wilderness areas
- Top-loading main compartment with sleeping bag access at the bottom
- Multiple pockets including hip belt and side mesh for water bottles
- Integrated rain cover protects gear during unexpected mountain weather changes quickly
- Trekking pole and ice axe attachment loops for technical terrain adventures
Kestrel 38 Pack by Osprey
Osprey’s legendary ventilation system combines with versatile storage in this streamlined 38-liter pack built for weekend warriors and day hikers.
The integrated rain cover and hydration sleeve keep you prepared for changing conditions on challenging mountain trails.
How to wear it
- Ideal for overnight trips or long day hikes with extra gear
- AirScape back panel provides breathable comfort even during steep summer climbs
- Dual-zippered hipbelt pockets keep snacks and phone within easy reach always
- Front panel shove-it pocket stashes layers when the sun breaks through clouds
- Scratch-free internal pocket protects sunglasses and electronics from trail impacts securely
Trail 25 Pack
This streamlined 25-liter daypack balances lightweight design with organizational features for local trail adventures.
- Padded back panel and shoulder straps
- Hydration sleeve and reservoir clip
- Side compression straps secure load
Men’s Stratos 36 Pack by Osprey
Osprey’s proven AirSpeed suspension delivers maximum ventilation while carrying overnight essentials or day-hike gear across rugged backcountry terrain with confidence.
The continuous wraparound harness and hipbelt create load stability that keeps you balanced on technical scrambles and steep descents.
How to wear it
- Best for fast-paced overnight trips where comfort and speed matter equally
- Floating top lid converts to a lightweight summit pack for alpine adventures
- Dual side compression keeps load stable when scrambling over rocky terrain safely
- Built-in rain cover deploys instantly when weather turns during exposed ridge walks
- Stretch mesh side pockets fit water bottles and quick-access snacks perfectly always
Men’s Exos 58 Pack by Osprey
This ultralight pack weighs just over two pounds yet carries multi-day loads with surprising comfort thanks to clever engineering and premium materials.
The frameless design and tensioned mesh back panel keep weight minimal while maintaining ventilation on long miles through remote wilderness.
How to wear it
- Perfect for lightweight backpackers counting every ounce on extended thru-hikes successfully
- Removable top lid and hipbelt allow further weight reduction for minimalist trips
- Large front mesh pocket swallows wet tent or rain gear easily
- Side pockets hold trekking poles or water bottles within reach during movement
- Dual hipbelt pockets provide quick access to camera, GPS, or trail snacks
Women’s Trailmade 60 Pack
This women-specific expedition pack combines generous capacity with comfort features designed for extended backcountry adventures.
- Adjustable torso fits multiple body types
- Multiple access points including sleeping bag compartment
- Integrated rain cover and hydration compatibility
Trailmade 10 Hydration Pack
This minimalist 10-liter pack keeps you moving light on quick morning hikes or trail runs.
- Hydration reservoir sleeve and tube routing
- Lightweight breathable back panel stays cool
- Front zippered pocket for keys and snacks
Borealis Trail Pack by The North Face
The North Face brings urban versatility to trail-ready design with comfortable carry and smart organization.
- FlexVent suspension system provides all-day comfort
- External bungee system secures extra layers quickly
- Reflective details improve visibility in low light
Fieldsmith Linked Pack by Patagonia
Patagonia’s sustainable design philosophy meets functional trail performance in this eco-conscious everyday adventure pack.
- Made from recycled materials with Fair Trade certification
- Padded laptop sleeve doubles for hydration reservoir
- Durable water-repellent finish sheds light rain naturally
Vantage 26 L Endless Promise Everyday Adventure Daypack by Nemo
Nemo’s innovative design brings fresh thinking to daypack comfort with unique ventilation and organizational features.
- Suspended mesh back panel maximizes airflow significantly
- Multiple internal pockets keep gear organized perfectly
- Side water bottle pockets with secure retention
From ultralight thru-hiking packs to versatile daypacks that transition from trail to town, this year’s sale offers something for every type of adventurer and budget. Whether you’re upgrading worn-out gear or investing in your first quality backpack, these editor-selected options represent the best value available during the biggest sale of the year. Don’t wait—these deals won’t last long, and the right pack is waiting to join you on countless future adventures at REI.
