Ever felt like your backpack is holding you back on the trail? You’re not alone! Choosing the perfect 35-liter hiking backpack can feel like a puzzle. So many brands, so many features, and what even *is* a good hip belt? It’s easy to get overwhelmed, and the wrong pack can lead to sore shoulders, aching hips, and a generally less enjoyable adventure.
But what if you could find a pack that feels like an extension of yourself, carrying your gear comfortably and keeping everything organized? Imagine hitting the trail with confidence, knowing your backpack is built to last and designed for your needs. This post is here to help you do just that!
We’re going to dive deep into what makes a great 35-liter hiking backpack. You’ll learn about the key features to look for, understand the different types available, and discover how to pick the one that will make your next hike your best one yet. Get ready to say goodbye to backpack stress and hello to happy trails!
Our Top 5 35L Hiking Backpack Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 35L Hiking Backpack Detailed Reviews
1. SKYSPER Hiking Backpack for Men Women
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready for your next adventure? The SKYSPER Hiking Backpack is designed for both men and women, offering a 35L capacity that’s perfect for weekend trips or day hikes. It’s built to handle the elements and keep your gear organized and safe.
What We Like:
- It’s made from strong, water-resistant material that won’t easily rip.
- All the stress points are reinforced, so it lasts a long time.
- It has lots of pockets to keep your things tidy, including a special spot for a water bladder.
- The padded back and straps make carrying it comfortable, even on long walks.
- It has a built-in rain cover and reflective parts to keep you safe at night.
- The hip belt is great for support and even has a pocket for your phone.
- There’s an emergency whistle attached to the chest strap.
- You can attach extra gear to the outside using the elastic rope and MOLLE system.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s water-repellent, it might not be fully waterproof in heavy rain without the cover.
- The “anti-theft” compartment might not deter a determined thief.
This SKYSPER backpack is a solid choice for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s comfortable, durable, and has smart features to make your trips easier and safer.
2. MOUNTAINTOP Hiking Backpack 35L Travel Backpack Lightweight Daypack for Men&Women Outdoor Camping
Rating: 8.8/10
The MOUNTAINTOP Hiking Backpack 35L is a great choice for anyone who loves the outdoors. This backpack is designed for both men and women. It’s perfect for day trips, camping, and hiking.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong polyester that’s easy to clean.
- The YKK zippers and buckles are smooth and won’t break.
- It’s lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- The padded shoulder straps and back panel help reduce pressure.
- It has lots of pockets to keep your things organized.
- A special pocket holds a water bag, and another fits a 15.6-inch laptop.
- The adjustable waist belt makes it fit most people comfortably.
- It has a whistle on the chest strap, which is good for emergencies.
What Could Be Improved:
- The water bladder is not included.
- The waist belt can be removed, which might be a con for some users who prefer it permanently attached.
This MOUNTAINTOP backpack is a reliable and comfortable companion for all your outdoor adventures. It’s a fantastic gift for anyone who enjoys exploring nature.
3. IX INOXTO Hiking Backpack
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready for your next adventure? The IX INOXTO 35L Hiking Backpack is built tough and designed for comfort, making it your ideal companion for day trips, camping, and travel. This black backpack comes packed with features to keep you organized and hydrated, no matter where your journey takes you.
What We Like:
- Made from strong, water-resistant polyester that can handle any weather.
- It has a special back system that makes it feel comfortable, even when you’re carrying a lot.
- Comes with a big 3-liter water bladder so you can drink all day.
- Lots of pockets help you keep your gear neat and easy to find.
- It’s lightweight and has padded straps to make carrying it easier.
- Includes a rain cover to keep your belongings dry.
- Reflective parts help others see you when it’s dark.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 35L size might be too small for longer trips that require a lot of gear.
- While durable, the material might not be as heavy-duty as some professional mountaineering packs.
This IX INOXTO backpack offers a fantastic blend of features for its price. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable daypack.
4. INOXTO lightweight Hiking Backpack 35L/40L Hiking Daypack with Waterproof Rain Cover Camping Backpack for Travel Camping Outdoor for Men and Women (35L Black)
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready for your next adventure? The INOXTO lightweight Hiking Backpack in 35L Black is built for comfort and durability. This pack is designed for both men and women, making it a versatile choice for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re hitting the trails for a day hike or embarking on a camping trip, this backpack has got your back.
What We Like:
- The backpack features an ergonomic design that fits your body comfortably. It helps spread the weight evenly, so your muscles don’t get tired easily.
- It’s made from tough, water-repellent polyester fabric that resists tears. This material keeps your gear dry and protected in different weather conditions.
- The shoulder straps are made with breathable mesh and have soft sponge padding. This keeps you cool and comfortable, even on hot days.
- With a 40L capacity, you can pack all your essentials without feeling weighed down. It’s just the right size for trips.
- It comes with a high-quality waterproof rain cover. This cover protects your backpack and its contents from heavy rain, with a high waterproof rating.
- INOXTO offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 3-month replacement warranty. They are ready to help if you have any issues.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the capacity is good, some users might prefer slightly more internal organization options.
- The color options are limited to black in this specific model, which might not suit everyone’s preference.
This INOXTO backpack is a solid choice for anyone seeking a comfortable and reliable companion for their outdoor journeys. Its thoughtful design and protective features ensure you can focus on enjoying the experience.
5. Mardingtop 35L Tactical Backpacks Molle Hiking daypacks for Camping Hiking Military Traveling Motorcycle
Rating: 9.5/10
The Mardingtop 35L Tactical Backpack is built tough for all your adventures. Whether you’re hitting the trails, riding your motorcycle, or just need a reliable daypack, this bag has you covered. It’s designed to carry your essentials comfortably and keep them organized.
What We Like:
- It’s made from strong 600D polyester, so it can handle rough use.
- The YKK buckles and zippers are very durable and won’t break easily.
- It has a special spot for a hydration bladder, so you can drink water on the go.
- You can attach extra gear like sleeping bags or tents to the outside using the compression straps.
- There’s a patch area to add your own cool stickers or badges.
- The waist belt can be tucked away, making it more comfortable when you don’t need it.
- It’s a great size for a 3-day trip or as a hiking daypack.
What Could Be Improved:
- The hydration bladder itself is not included, so you’ll need to buy that separately.
This backpack is a solid choice for anyone who needs a durable and versatile bag for outdoor activities. Its smart design makes it a great companion for any journey.
Choosing Your Perfect 35L Hiking Backpack
A 35-liter hiking backpack is a great choice for day hikes or short overnight trips. It’s big enough to carry your essentials but not so bulky that it slows you down. Let’s explore what makes a good 35L pack.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out a 35L hiking backpack, several things will make your adventures much better.
- Comfortable Suspension System: This includes the shoulder straps, hip belt, and back panel. They need to be padded and adjustable. A good system distributes weight evenly, so your shoulders and back don’t hurt.
- Adjustable Torso Length: Backpacks come in different sizes. Being able to adjust the torso length ensures the pack fits your body properly. This is super important for comfort.
- Plenty of Pockets and Compartments: You’ll want easy access to things like water bottles, snacks, and your map. Look for side pockets, a hip belt pocket, and a main compartment that opens wide.
- Hydration Reservoir Compatibility: Many packs have a special sleeve for a water bladder and a port to drink from. This makes staying hydrated on the trail much easier.
- Rain Cover: Some packs come with a built-in rain cover or have a place to store one. Keeping your gear dry is a big deal.
- Attachment Points: Loops and straps on the outside of the pack let you carry extra gear like trekking poles or a sleeping pad.
Important Materials
The materials used in a backpack affect how durable and comfortable it is.
- Nylon (Ripstop): This is a strong and lightweight fabric. Ripstop nylon has a special weave that prevents small tears from spreading. It’s a popular choice for good reason.
- Polyester: Another durable option, polyester is also resistant to stretching and shrinking. It’s often used in more budget-friendly packs.
- Water-Resistant Coatings: Many fabrics have coatings like PU (polyurethane) or DWR (durable water repellent) to help keep water out.
- Mesh: Found in back panels and shoulder straps, mesh helps with breathability. It allows air to flow, keeping you cooler.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a backpack last and feel good?
What Improves Quality:
- Sturdy Zippers and Buckles: High-quality zippers and buckles are essential. They should feel smooth and strong. YKK zippers are a common sign of good quality.
- Reinforced Stitching: Look for double or triple stitching in high-stress areas. This means the pack is built to handle a lot of weight and use.
- Well-Padded and Contoured Straps: The shoulder straps and hip belt should be shaped to fit your body comfortably. Good padding prevents chafing and pressure points.
- Ventilated Back Panel: A back panel designed to allow airflow will keep your back drier and more comfortable, especially on warm days.
What Reduces Quality:
- Thin, Flimsy Fabric: Packs made with very thin materials might tear easily.
- Cheap Zippers: Zippers that snag or break quickly are frustrating and can ruin a pack.
- Poorly Padded Straps: Straps that are too thin or not shaped well will be uncomfortable.
- Lack of Adjustability: If you can’t adjust the torso length or straps, the pack might not fit you well.
User Experience and Use Cases
A 35L backpack is super versatile.
Great for:
- Day Hikes: Perfect for carrying water, snacks, a first-aid kit, a jacket, and other essentials for a long day on the trail.
- Overnight Camping: With smart packing, you can fit a lightweight sleeping bag, a small tent, and food for one night.
- Travel: It can serve as a carry-on bag for short trips, holding clothes and travel necessities.
- Everyday Use: Some people use these packs for school or commuting because they are comfortable and hold a lot.
When you use a 35L backpack, you’ll notice how much easier it is to move around compared to a bigger pack. The weight feels balanced if the pack fits you right. You can reach for your water bottle without taking the pack off, and finding your snacks is simple with the right pockets. A well-fitting pack makes hiking more enjoyable because you focus on the scenery, not your sore shoulders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is a 35L backpack big enough for an overnight trip?
A: Yes, if you pack light and efficiently, a 35L backpack is usually enough for a one-night camping trip. You’ll need to choose lightweight gear.
Q: How do I know if a backpack fits my torso?
A: The adjustable torso length on the backpack should match the length of your back from your neck’s prominent bone to your hip bone. Many outdoor stores can help you measure this.
Q: Can I use a 35L backpack for multi-day hikes?
A: For multi-day hikes, especially in colder weather or if you need more gear, a 35L pack might be too small. You’d likely need a larger pack, like 50L or more.
Q: Are all 35L backpacks waterproof?
A: Most are water-resistant, meaning they can handle light rain. For heavy rain, you’ll need a separate rain cover or a pack made from fully waterproof material.
Q: What’s the difference between a men’s and women’s 35L backpack?
A: Women’s packs are often designed with shorter torso lengths, narrower shoulder straps, and hip belts shaped differently to fit a woman’s body better.
Q: How should I pack my 35L backpack?
A: Pack heavier items close to your back and in the middle. Lighter items go at the bottom and top. Keep frequently needed items in easy-to-reach pockets.
Q: What are “load lifters”?
A: Load lifters are straps that connect the top of the shoulder straps to the top of the backpack. They help pull the weight closer to your body, improving balance and comfort.
Q: Is it better to have a backpack with many small pockets or one large main compartment?
A: A good balance is best. Many small pockets help with organization, but a large main compartment makes it easier to pack bulkier items.
Q: How do I clean my hiking backpack?
A: Most packs can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Avoid machine washing or drying, as this can damage the fabric and coatings.
Q: Can I attach extra gear to the outside of a 35L backpack?
A: Yes, most 35L backpacks have external attachment points like daisy chains and loops for trekking poles, sleeping pads, or other gear.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.