Best Hiking Backpacks for Women 2026 | Tested and Reviewed
We’ve tested a whole bunch of hiking backpacks for women over the years - here are our 10 favourites, chosen by our expert gear testers. With options for multi-day trekking, day hiking, fastpacking, weekend campouts and more - there’s something for everyone here.
What is the best hiking backpack for a woman’s body shape? Well, that’s what we’re here to answer, and luckily for you, in this article you’ll find 10 great hiking backpacks for a variety of different women’s body types. Following roughly 20 years of testing from our women’s gear team, each and every bag here has been used and rated by our trusted crew to make sure there’s a little something for everyone.
But what’s the difference between men’s and women’s hiking backpacks? While there’s by no means just one body shape for all women, there are some broad generalisations that make women’s hiking backpacks different to men’s.
Here OM tester Jazz demonstrates the back panel on the Rab Protium backpack. Photo: Dave MacFarlane.
Firstly, women generally tend to have narrower shoulders and a shorter torso length. A good hiking backpack will include an anatomical fit to accommodate these differences, including added padding and depth in the appropriate spots throughout the bag. Shoulder straps and chest straps are also often changed to account for a larger bust size.
Ergonomically shaped harnesses and hipbelts are also common in women’s backpacks to accommodate a more curved body shape. These changes make sure the backpack is better suited to a woman’s contours and hip shape, ensuring they deliver the same support and load carrying abilities as men’s backpacks in a more refined fit.
Beyond these gender differences, other factors you’ll want to consider include what type of activity you need the backpack for, carrying comfort, load management, volume flexibility, adjustment points, durability factors and the feature-set. In this round-up I’ve also considered factors relating to the sustainability of the product. Here’s our more in-depth guide to choosing the right backpack for you if you’d like some more advice.
The Best Hiking Backpacks for Women 2026
These backpacks have been tested and reviewed by a whole team of female gear testers from over the years. We’ve tested them on mountains and trails across the UK and beyond, with a focus on multi-day trekking, day hiking, fastpacking, and weekend campouts. Here’s our favourites so far:
Gregory Maven – Best Overall Hiking Backpack for Women
The ‘most sustainable backpack for women’ award recently changed from the Fjällräven Friluft to Klättermusen Delling backpack after it impressed our testers. We’ll be continuing our testing throughout the year and will note down any changes we make here. With that in mind, keep an eye out as we get deeper into the winter hiking season.
1. Gregory Maven 58L
Best Overall Hiking Backpack for Women: The innovative back system and supreme comfort sealed the deal for our testers.
Where To Buy
Gregory Maven 58L
Our tester’s verdict: “I think this bag could be a game-changer for me. Gregory have fine tuned the balance between support and practicality very well here, honing in on adjustability wherever possible.”
Price: £190 Weight: 1.59kg Best for: long-distance backpacking, multi-day adventures Key attributes: innovative hipbelt and back system, multiple storage options, side-loading access zipper
The Gregory Maven 58 is a backpack purpose-built for trekking. It’s the kind of long-distance gear hauler you want with you on multi-day hiking adventures such as the South West Coast path or the Pennine Way for example, where a balance between comfort and capacity is key. It’s not the lightest pack out there, with the comfortable back panel and durable fabrics adding a bit of weight to it, but we wouldn’t call it heavy either.
OM tester Jazz out testing the Maven in North Wales. Photo: Dave MacFarlane.
One of our favourite features of the Maven backpack is the dynamic suspension system. Gregory calls it a ‘FreeFloat Hybrid Suspension’ and it involves their FreeFloat hip belt combined with the 3D foam AirCushion back panel. The adjustable system uses flex panels in the hip belt and across the lower back panel that pivot with your body. This culminates in a pack that mimics your twists and turns as you hike which, in our opinion, excels on challenging ascents where you’re making all kinds of different motions.
“I think this bag could be a game-changer for me”, said our tester. “Gregory have fine tuned the balance between support and practicality very well here, honing in on adjustability wherever possible. I can see myself using the Maven on long-distance hiking trips in the future where I’ll need something nice and roomy with all-day comfort.”
Our Runner-up and Best Daypack for Women: Expect useful adjustment points and a very comfy back system.
Where To Buy
Rab Protium ND 25L
Our tester’s verdict: “I really like the ergonomic back system here. It feels very minimalist and lightweight compared to other backpacks I’ve tried, but without sacrificing anything in terms of performance.”
Price: £98 Weight: 1.15kg Best for: everyday hiking, fast hiking, hut-to-hut trekking Key attributes: adjustable back system, ergonomic fit, lots of storage options
This gets our pick as the best daypack and runner-up overall due to its exceptional balance of durability and weight, and its impressive feature set and storage options.
OM editorial assistant Jazz has been testing the Rab Protium ND 25L through spring and summer, most recently on some days out in the Dartry mountains of Leitrim, loading it up with everything you’d need to keep you warm, dry, well fed and watered out on the trail.
Jazz (on the left) is pictured here wearing the Rab Protium ND 25L backpack on a hike in the Rhinogydd in Wales. Photo: Dave MacFarlane.
She reports: “This Protium backpack is a thoughtfully designed pack that I can see suiting a variety of different hiking objectives. For example, I’ve used it for fully-loaded day hikes, shorter everyday walks, and on one overnight hike where someone else was carrying the tent (luxurious, I know). So far, I’ve been impressed with how consistently comfortable it is across these different load types, even as you’re twisting and turning your body on the trail.”
“I also really like the ergonomic back system. It feels very minimalist and lightweight compared to other backpacks I’ve tried, but without sacrificing anything in terms of performance. The load stays close to your body and moves with you, which, in my experience, feels very intuitive and stable overall. My one qualm is that the material is quite thin so I’d definitely recommend packing any breakables in their own protective casing before packing them in the backpack.”
Pros ✔ great for heavy loads ✔ multiple adjustment points ✔ comfy back system
Best Lightweight Backpack for Women: Our pick for the hiking backpack that balances performance and weight the best, according to our tests.
Where To Buy
Lowe Alpine AirZone Ultra 36L
Our tester’s verdict: “I liked the detailing here, including the big stretchy mesh pockets and the dual hipbelt pockets which were handy for stashing small items of kit on-the-go.”
Price: £130 Weight: 800g Best for: overnight hikes, fast packing, day hikes with large loads Key attributes: lightweight, recycled content, multiple storage options
This is a versatile pack that sits somewhere between a spacious daypack and a lightweight overnight option. At 36 litres, there’s more than enough capacity for a full day in the hills, while the generous volume also makes it a practical choice for carrying a pared-back camping setup.
The suspended back system is one of its standout features, providing excellent ventilation and a comfortable, supportive fit. It also creates a useful gap between your back and the contents of the pack, so there’s less chance of hard or awkwardly packed items digging in. The trade-off is that, once heavily loaded, the trampoline-style construction holds the weight further away from your body, which can make the pack feel less balanced.
Our tester Emma Cole using the Lowe Alpine Airzone Ultra in Pembrokeshire. Photos: Dave Macfarlane
There are plenty of thoughtful touches, too. We particularly liked the large stretch-mesh side pockets and the two hipbelt pockets, which are roomy enough to accommodate a phone and other small essentials. Our main criticism of the Airzone Ultra is its top closure, which didn’t always inspire confidence in wet conditions. At times, it felt as though our gear was more exposed than we’d have liked, so we’d recommend packing valuables and vulnerable kit in drybags.
Our tester Emma Cole said, “The supportive, comfortable fit is a real highlight, and it’s particularly encouraging to see thoughtful pack designs for smaller frames. The stash pockets are intuitive and easy to access while moving, and the ventilated back system strikes a good balance between airflow and support.”
Pros ✔ lots of airflow ✔ lightweight design ✔ comfy back system
Cons ✘ top closure a little unreliable in wet weather
✘ can feel unstable
Best Value Hiking Backpack for Women: This is our favourite good value option for hiking and walking. It’s a great all-rounder hiking backpack.
Where To Buy
Simond Trekking MT500 45+10L
Our tester’s verdict: “I like how tough this backpack is. While there’s not much in the way of recycled content, the material itself feels robust and has held up well on the trail. The back panel is pretty breathable too and uses a suspended mesh fabric with a reinforced frame.”
Price: £89.99 Weight: 1600g Best for: multi-day hiking, walkers on a budget Key attributes: ventilated back structure with mesh fabric and reinforced frame, ripstop fabric
The MT500 45+10L trekking backpackfrom Decathlon offers good adjustability and a lot of storage at half the price of most packs with this kind of capacity. Featuring an extendable build, wide front access, and access to the bottom of the bag too, there’s a lot to like here.
Our tester Jazz said, “I like how tough this backpack is. While there’s not much in the way of recycled content, the material itself feels robust and has held up well on the trail. The back panel is breathable too and uses a suspended mesh fabric with a reinforced frame. This inevitably adds to the weight, though I think it’s a fair trade-off for having a robust backpack.”
One of our gear testers Cinthia out on the South Downs Way with the Simond Trekking MT500 backpack.
“There’s eight pockets in total and tons of adjustability too. In terms of features, the nifty bottle holder is a highlight, though I recommend securing it as tight as possible. The fit itself is pretty versatile thanks to the sliding back system, though I’ve found it a bit fiddly to manoeuvre.”
“One thing that’s a little concerning is the occasional squeaking noise coming from the back frame. With some careful reshuffling of my kit, I managed to make it stop squeaking, though I did notice that it becomes worse the heavier the pack is. Maybe it’s just my pack in particular, but either way, it’s worth bearing in mind if you’re a heavy packer. The pack itself also sits a little higher on the back than most packs due to the higher fitted belt that’s been designed for a women’s build.”
All in all, I think the price is a fair trade for what’s on offer here, though I’d consider spending a bit more if you want a more refined carry system.
Pros ✔ loads of adjustment points ✔ good internal organisation ✔ tough fabric
Cons ✘ back system is prone to squeaking
✘ not ideal for heavy packers or larger bodies
5. Klättermusen Delling 25L
Most Sustainable Backpack for Women: Our pick for those with sustainability and an eco-friendly build in mind.
Where To Buy
Klättermusen Delling 25L
Our tester’s verdict: “All in all, I think this is a really well made backpack. It’s quickly becoming my go-to for day hiking at the moment, and thanks to its classic design and durable materials, I can see it remaining a staple for years to come.”
Price: £190 Weight: 770g Best for: day hiking, hillwalking, everyday, travel
Key attributes: tough and sustainable Retina fabrics, good storage capacity, versatile look and build, comfy over long periods
The Delling 20L is a thoughtfully constructed backpack that makes a strong first impression thanks to its quality materials and robust Retina fabrics. These durable materials give it a reassuringly long-lasting feel, while its versatile design means it’s equally at home on a mountain trail or navigating the city.
OM tester Jazz using the Delling in the Lake District during a rough stint of weather. Photo: Dave MacFarlane.
Its carry system is simple, combining a lightly padded back panel with an internal frame sheet. Although the padding is thinner than you’ll find on some more substantial packs, we found it surprisingly comfortable. It moves naturally with your body, particularly when twisting and turning on uneven ground. And if keeping weight to a minimum is the priority, the frame sheet can easily be removed.
Despite the stated 25L capacity, there’s plenty of additional storage thanks to the generous front bungee and spacious stretch-mesh side pockets. OM tester Jazz found there was enough room on the exterior alone for two large water bottles, a sandwich, several granola bars and a waterproof jacket. “I could easily see myself taking it on longer summer day hikes,” she said.
Pros ✔ tough and sustainable build, ✔ very durable
✔ great side pockets
✔ handy bungee cord on front
Cons ✘ the bottom of the pack could be more water-resistant/ waterproof
✘ hipbelt pocket is quite small
Our tester’s verdict: “I think this is a really thoughtfully produced bag – the high quality materials are a highlight for me, along with streamlined design.”
Price: £185 Weight: 1650g Best for: overnight camps, lightweight backpacking Key attributes: aluminium frame and mesh back panel, PFAS-free, recycled content
Fjällräven’s Abisko Friluft has been around for some time now and has quickly secured its place as a backpacking classic. Featuring a pre-curved aluminum frame with a suspended mesh panel, there’s always a gap between you and the bag which creates a lot of room for airflow. The mesh lined hipbelt is similarly breathable and we love the recycled and PFAS-free materials used throughout.
OM tester Jazz out and about with the Fjällräven Abisko Friluft backpack.
OM tester Jazz said, “Yes, it’s expensive. But I think you get what you pay for here – high quality materials, and a really thoughtfully produced bag. I recently tried the 35L capacity in a S/M size and I was very impressed. The design is unisex and so far, I’ve had no problems. I have pretty wide hips and have found it very comfortable over extended periods of hiking.”
“It’s worth noting that the back length is fixed, which might be annoying for some people, but the bag does come in two sizes to make up for that (S/M and M/L). So far, I’ve found it roomy enough for a one to two night camp if you back lightly, and great for a heavily-packed day hike.”
“The easy-access zippers were handy for quickly grabbing gear, and I also appreciated the extra storage pocket at the front of the bag which makes organising your essentials that much easier. The stability has been good too, though I find that suspended back systems usually require a little more forethought when you’re moving on the trail compared to a bodyhugging design.”
Now made from 100% recycled tough ripstop fabric with a reinforced, waterproof base (also 100% recycled), this is the kind of backpack that feels like it would last a long time.
Our tester’s verdict: “For walkers looking for a reliable backpacking pack at an accessible price, the Denali Pro offers great value and a reliable technical spec. The torso adjustability and expandable capacity are big highlights for me – they really add to the bag’s versatility across different types of hiking trips.”
Price: from £84 Weight: approx. 2.3kg Best for: DofE expeditions, multi-day backpacking trips, long-distance trekking Key attributes: expandable from 60 to 70L, good value, tough recycled fabrics, lots of storage options, very adjustable
The Vango Denali Pro 60:70 is aimed squarely at backpackers, long-distance walkers and anyone needing a pack capable of carrying a significant amount of kit for multi-day adventures. With a capacity that can be expanded from 60 to 70 litres, it’s perfect for big trekking trips and longer journeys where carrying comfort becomes every bit as important as storage.
The main highlight of the Denali Pro, according to our tester, is its adjustability. Vango has designed a back system that can be adjusted not only with the usual shoulder-tighteners and load-lifter straps but also through the anchor position of the shoulder harness itself. This makes it easy to properly dial in the fit to match your torso length, and also makes it ideal for young adventurers who’re looking for a reliable backpack that they won’t grow out of.
On test, and fully loaded, on Offa’s Dyke path.
“It took a few minutes to get the pack adjusted but once set up it remained comfortable throughout some long climbs and descents in the Black Mountains recently,” our tester said. “Even fully loaded, the weight sat close to my body and felt well balanced.”
“The Denali Pro feels reassuringly robust too,” our tester continues, “Materials appear capable of standing up to the sort of abuse that comes with regular backpacking use, whether that’s being dragged in and out of tents, loaded into car boots or scraped against dry-stone walls and thorns.”
All in all, we found the Vango Denali Pro 60:70 to be a well-designed trekking pack that balances comfort, adjustability and practical organisation well. It’s not the lightest pack out there, but when loaded to the brim, we found that it carried weight comfortably and never felt overly cumbersome. For walkers looking for a reliable backpacking pack at an accessible price, the Denali Pro offers great value and a technical spec that’s great for folks just starting out in the world of backpacking and intermediate hikers alike.
Pros ✔ great load-carrying comfort ✔ highly adjustable back system ✔ easy access to kit via top and bottom of bag
✔ loads of storage options
✔ good value
Cons ✘ on the heavy side ✘ overkill for minimalist overnight trips
8. Rab Veil XP 20L Waterproof Pack
Where To Buy
Rab Veil XP 20L
Our tester’s verdict: “If you’re looking to go fast and light – or at least light-ish, while still having room for emergency Haribo – the Rab Veil XP 20L delivers in spades.”
Price: £125 Weight: 476g Best for: fastpacking, mountain marathons and multi-day missions Key attributes: light, waterproof, cleverly designed, surprisingly spacious
Let’s start with the basics: this 20-litre unisex pack from Rab is billed as a minimalist mountain runner’s dream. Our tester Sophie spent six days on Italy’s Alta Via 1 with this pack – carrying everything needed for hut-to-hut life – and can confirm, it’s a legitimate fastpacking workhorse, built to trot, trundle, and handle the ever-changing demands that come with multi-day mountain adventures.
OM tester Sophie is pictured here testing the Rab Veil XP 20L waterproof pack on Italy’s Alta Via 1.
Sophie reports, “Despite the skimpy frame, the Veil XP handles a surprisingly hefty load. I stuffed it with six days of kit – waterproofs, warm layers, spare running gear, microspikes, first aid, toiletries, emergency bivvy, the usual “please-don’t-let-me-freeze” bits – and the pack took it all in its stride. The ultralight Mono Mesh harness deserves a particular shout out. It carries well, absorbs barely any moisture, and keeps things breathable at the back. The wide shoulder straps might feel a bit much if you’re more beanpole than broad-shouldered, but they helped distribute the weight well and never rubbed or chafed despite scorchio temps and the occasional thunderstorm.”
“The real star, though? The hip belt. Absolute hero. Lock it in, and you can legitimately run – not just bounce and shuffle – even when the pack’s fully loaded.”
The Rab Veil XP 20L Waterproof Pack.
“Pockets are plentiful – from stretch mesh front and side slots (although we could have done with an extra one for stashing accessible snacks and kit mid-stride) to dedicated running Z-pole pockets, and a roll-top main compartment that keeps the Dolomite downpours where they belong. Compression straps help cinch the whole thing down when you’re not maxed out on kit, and there’s a couple of zip front pockets for smartphones/snacks and two 500ml front flask holders, too. There’s also a water bladder sleeve, though I chose to reserve that salubrious spot for my flip flops – ‘cos nothing compares to the feeling of sliding tired trotters into a pair of airy flip flops after a long, hot day on the trail.”
If you’re looking to go fast and light – or at least light-ish, while still having room for emergency Haribo – the Rab Veil XP 20L delivers in spades. It’s stable, waterproof, and cleverly designed, with enough capacity for multi-day mountain adventures if you’re willing to go slightly feral on the gear front.
Pros ✔ highly functional hipbelt ✔ bounce-free run
Cons ✘ shoulder straps not ideal for slim builds or narrow shoulders
9. Montane Trailblazer LT 20L
Where To Buy
Montane Trailblazer LT 20L
Our tester’s verdict: “In my experience, this is great for long mountain runs or fast hiking missions when you want something lightweight with minimal bulk.”
Price: £110 Weight: 300g Best for: fast hiking, trail running Key attributes: featherlight, body-hugging design, handy storage solutions Pros: watertight roll top opening, ultralight, great for long mountain runs Cons: not ideal for those with a larger chest
With their Trailblazer LT Backpacks, Montane have created daypacks for fast and light hikers and adventure racers, all featuring a body-hugging fit and multiple handy storage options. Composed of 40 Denier ripstop nylon for the main body and polyester for the back pad, shoulder straps and hip fins, the Trailblazer is a robust pack that should last for many adventures. A fully taped waterproof construction, featuring a seamless main body, enhances its durability and keeps your gear dry too.
“There’s a plethora of handy storage solutions on the Trailblazer, giving you quick access to items you want to have to hand.” Photo: Mike Drummond
Our gear tester said, “The Trailblazer has been crafted to hug the wearer’s body for a barely there feel. Chest straps and the customisable waist harness are designed for effective weight distribution, taking the load towards your centre of gravity and away from the shoulders. In my experience, this, coupled with the Trailblazer’s remarkably low weight, makes for a comfortable pack that doesn’t hinder the trail experience.”
Pros ✔ watertight roll top opening ✔ ultralight
✔ great for long mountain runs
Price: £159 Weight: 920g Best for: multi-activity use, day hiking, everyday Key attributes: stretchy mesh front pocket, comfy back panel, lots of storage options, tough fabric
Heimplanet may be best known for its futuristic inflatable tents, but the German brand also makes a selection of cleverly designed backpacks. The Ellipse 25L is one of the most versatile options in its lineup, combining the features you’d want for outdoor adventures with a clean enough design for everyday use.
During our tests on a 15-mile day hike in Mid Wales.
We’ve taken it hiking and cycling, as well as using it as a laptop bag, and found it capable across a wide range of situations. The padded laptop compartment, generous stretch-mesh front pocket and supportive back panel are among the highlights. The latter contours nicely to your back and remains comfortable when riding, while still allowing a useful amount of airflow. There are also ice axe attachment points, removable components such as the hipbelt and sternum strap, and a good selection of practical pockets. We particularly liked the discreet security pocket. If you need additional organisation, Heimplanet also offers detachable zipped hipbelt pockets separately.
Although the Ellipse isn’t completely waterproof, its main fabric provides impressive water resistance. During a particularly wet hike in the Cambrian Mountains, tester Hannah spent the day walking in persistent drizzle without noticing any significant moisture making its way inside. However, the seams and zippers aren’t sealed, so prolonged or heavy rain could eventually find its way in. For wetter conditions, we’d recommend using dry bags to keep sensitive kit protected.
OM tester Hannah using the Heimplanet Motion Ellipse in the wilds of the Cambrian Mountains.
Hannah said, “The main fabric and base both feel exceptionally durable, while the stretchy mesh is tougher than you might expect. Despite plenty of contact and abrasion during testing, the pack showed little sign of wear, and I’d expect it to have a long lifespan.”
“Ultimately, this is a thoughtfully designed and highly adaptable pack. It has the functionality needed for proper outdoor use, but its understated, streamlined appearance means it doesn’t look out of place when you’re using it around town.”
Pros ✔ suitable for both outdoor and urban use ✔ highly water-resistant
✔ durable
Cons ✘ expensive
✘ not the most supportive hipbelt
