Imagine this: You’re standing at the trailhead, ready for an amazing hike. The sun is warm, the birds are singing, and you’re excited to explore. But then, you look down at your backpack. Is it comfortable? Does it hold everything you need? Or is it digging into your shoulders and making you wish you were already home?
Choosing the right backpack for hiking as a woman can be tricky. So many backpacks are made for men, and they just don’t fit right. You might feel uncomfortable, or your pack might not carry your water, snacks, and extra layers properly. This can turn a fun adventure into a painful chore.
Don’t let a bad backpack ruin your hike! In this post, we’ll help you find a backpack that fits you perfectly and makes your adventures even better. We’ll talk about what makes a great women’s hiking backpack and how to pick the one that’s just right for you. Get ready to discover a backpack that feels like an extension of yourself, ready for any trail!
Our Top 5 Backpack For Women Hiking Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Backpack For Women Hiking Detailed Reviews
1. MIYCOO Backpack – Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack for Travel Camping
Rating: 9.4/10
The MIYCOO 45L Backpack is your ultimate travel companion. It’s designed to be incredibly light and packable, making it easy to carry wherever you go. Whether you’re heading out for a hike, a camping trip, or just need an extra bag for souvenirs, this backpack has you covered.
What We Like:
- Super lightweight, it feels almost like nothing when you carry it.
- It folds up super small, fitting right into its own pocket.
- It’s made from waterproof material, so your stuff stays dry even in light rain.
- The zippers are strong, and the seams are reinforced for extra toughness.
- It has a huge 45L space with three different sections.
- A special wet compartment keeps your damp items separate from your dry ones.
- It comes with a survival whistle, which is a smart safety feature for adventures.
- It’s perfect for carrying extra items you buy on your travels.
What Could Be Improved:
- The IPX4 waterproof rating only protects against splashes, not heavy downpours.
This backpack is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to travel light and stay prepared. It offers great value and is ready for any adventure.
2. BECOJADDE 15L Small Hiking Backpack for Men Women Foldable Packable Back Pack Ultralight Hiking Daypack for Travel Camping Outdoor
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet the BECOJADDE 15L Small Hiking Backpack, a super light and practical choice for all your adventures. This beige backpack is designed for both guys and gals, perfect for quick trips, camping, or even just your daily commute. It folds up small, making it easy to pack away when you don’t need it.
What We Like:
- The unique strap design has a handy zippered pocket for your phone on one side and a stretchy pocket on the other.
- Comfortable, breathable mesh shoulder straps keep you cool.
- Strong stitching at stress points means the straps won’t break.
- The adjustable chest belt keeps the pack snug and secure.
- The chest belt buckle is also a survival whistle for emergencies.
- It’s made from tough fabric that resists tears and scratches.
- The backpack folds down really small into its own pocket.
- Lots of pockets help you keep your stuff organized, including a mesh front pocket, a zippered front pocket, and a hidden back pocket for security.
- Two side pockets are perfect for water bottles.
- It’s super versatile, great for hiking, travel, biking, and everyday use.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for short trips, the 15L capacity might be too small for longer hikes with lots of gear.
- The material, while durable, might not be fully waterproof, so keep electronics in a dry bag.
This BECOJADDE backpack is a fantastic, lightweight companion for any outdoor enthusiast. Its smart design and durability make it a reliable choice for all your day trips and travels.
3. ZOMFELT Hiking Backpack for Women Men
Rating: 8.5/10
The ZOMFELT Hiking Backpack is a smart choice for anyone who needs a versatile and lightweight bag. It’s designed for both men and women, making it a great option for a wide range of adventures. This 15L backpack is perfect for trips, hikes, and even daily commutes. Its water-resistant fabric and compact design make it easy to carry and use anywhere.
What We Like:
- It’s compact but has plenty of space inside. The 15L main part holds your essentials. There’s also an inside pocket for valuables. Two front zipper pockets are great for your phone and charger. Side pockets hold water bottles and umbrellas easily. An elastic drawstring can secure hats or gear.
- The backpack is made of tough, rip-stop nylon. This fabric resists scratches and spills. It dries quickly and hides dirt well. The zipper is smooth and won’t get stuck. It only weighs 0.63 pounds and folds down to fit in your palm.
- The comfort design fits your back well. It spreads the weight evenly on your shoulders. The shoulder straps are breathable, keeping you cool. You can adjust them to fit your body perfectly. This stops the bag from bouncing when you walk or bike.
- It folds up super small in seconds. When open, it’s 10.2 x 6.2 x 15.4 inches. When folded, it’s just 5.9 x 6.7 inches. You can store it in your main bag or suitcase. It’s also good to have as a backup. You can even clip it to your hiking pack for extra storage.
- This backpack works for many things. It’s good for hiking, walking, and traveling. It’s also TSA-friendly for flights. It fits under airplane seats easily. This makes travel much simpler. It comes in different colors and makes a great gift.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 15L capacity is good for a day trip, it might not be enough for longer adventures that require more gear.
- The description mentions “multiple color options available,” but the specific color “Beige” is highlighted. More clarity on the full range of colors would be helpful.
Overall, the ZOMFELT hiking backpack is a practical and adaptable companion. It offers great value for its features and versatility.
4. Lightweight Hydration Backpack
Rating: 8.9/10
Hit the trails or the dance floor with the Lightweight Hydration Backpack. This pack carries your water and essentials comfortably, keeping you hydrated and ready for adventure. It’s designed for both men and women who love to stay active.
What We Like:
- It’s super lightweight, only 8.5 oz, so you’ll barely feel it on your back.
- The 2L water bladder is BPA-free and leakproof.
- The fabric is waterproof and tear-resistant, making it very durable.
- You can adjust the shoulder and chest straps for a perfect, comfortable fit.
- The back panel has soft air mesh that helps keep your back cool.
- It has lots of pockets for your phone, keys, and other small items.
- It’s great for many activities like hiking, running, cycling, and even festivals.
- The company offers a 1-year replacement for quality issues and lifetime customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it holds a 2L bladder, the main storage space is 12L, which might be a bit small for longer trips requiring a lot of gear.
This hydration backpack is a solid choice for staying hydrated and organized during your outdoor fun. It offers great value for its features and durability.
5. Bseash 40L Waterproof Hiking Backpack with Rain Cover
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet your new adventure buddy: the Bseash 40L Waterproof Hiking Backpack in a charming Milk Green. This backpack is ready for anything, from weekend camping trips to challenging climbs. Its design focuses on keeping your gear safe and comfortable, no matter where your journey takes you.
What We Like:
- It has tons of pockets! You can easily organize your sleeping bag, clothes, and other essentials.
- A special pouch inside is perfect for a water bladder, keeping you hydrated on the go.
- The elastic cord on the outside is super handy for grabbing things you need quickly, like a jacket or a map.
- Two side pockets are great for water bottles or umbrellas.
- This backpack is water-resistant and comes with an extra rain cover, so your stuff stays dry even in a downpour.
- The material is tough and won’t rip easily.
- It’s designed for comfort with padded, breathable shoulder straps and a padded back panel.
- Reflective stripes make you more visible at night, which is great for safety.
- It’s lightweight, weighing only 1.76lb, and its size usually works for airline carry-on.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s water-resistant, extremely heavy rain might still soak through if not using the rain cover.
- The 40L capacity might be a bit small for very long trips or if you pack a lot of bulky items.
This Bseash backpack offers a great balance of features, comfort, and durability for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a solid choice for your next adventure.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding Your Perfect Hiking Backpack
Why a Dedicated Women’s Hiking Backpack Matters
When you hit the trails, having the right gear makes all the difference. A hiking backpack designed specifically for women offers a better fit and more comfort. This means you can hike longer and enjoy the journey more. This guide helps you find the best backpack for your adventures.
Key Features to Look For
1. Fit and Comfort
- Torso Length: This is super important. Backpacks come in different torso lengths. You need to measure your torso to find the right one. A good fit stops the pack from rubbing or digging into you.
- Padded Hip Belt: A good hip belt carries most of the pack’s weight. It should be padded and comfortable. It should also sit on your hips, not your waist.
- Padded Shoulder Straps: These should be comfortable and adjustable. They help distribute weight evenly.
- Load Lifter Straps: These straps connect the top of the shoulder straps to the top of the pack. They pull the weight closer to your back for better balance.
2. Capacity (How Much It Holds)
- Day Hikes (10-30 liters): These are for short trips. They hold essentials like water, snacks, a jacket, and a first-aid kit.
- Overnight/Weekend Trips (30-50 liters): These fit more gear, like a sleeping bag, tent, and more food.
- Multi-Day Backpacking (50+ liters): These are for longer adventures. They carry everything you need for several days.
3. Organization and Access
- Multiple Pockets: Look for pockets on the hip belt, sides, and front. These make it easy to grab snacks or your water bottle.
- Top Loading vs. Panel Access: Top loading is common. Panel access (like a suitcase zipper) lets you open the whole front of the pack. This makes it easier to find things.
- Hydration Reservoir Sleeve: Many packs have a special pocket for a water bladder and a place to route the drinking tube.
4. Durability and Weather Resistance
- Sturdy Zippers and Buckles: These should feel strong and work smoothly.
- Water-Resistant Materials: Most packs offer some protection from light rain. A separate rain cover is often included or can be bought.
Important Materials
Backpacks use different materials. Common ones include:
- Nylon: This is strong and lightweight. It’s a popular choice for hiking packs.
- Polyester: This is also durable and good at resisting wear and tear.
- Ripstop Fabric: This is a special weave that prevents small tears from spreading.
Look for fabrics that are tough and can handle being dragged over rocks or branches. The stitching should be strong and neat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- Adjustable Suspension System: This lets you fine-tune the fit of the backpack.
- Ventilated Back Panel: Mesh or channels on the back panel help air flow. This keeps your back cooler and drier.
- Ergonomic Design: This means the pack is shaped to work with your body’s natural movements.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin, Flimsy Fabric: This can rip easily.
- Weak Stitching: This can come apart under stress.
- Poorly Padded Straps: These can cause discomfort.
- Heavy, Unnecessary Features: Sometimes extra bells and whistles add weight without much benefit.
User Experience and Use Cases
A well-fitting backpack feels like an extension of your body. You should barely notice it’s there. It should make carrying your gear feel balanced and manageable. A bad backpack can cause sore shoulders, a sore back, and blisters. This can ruin your hike. Choose a pack that fits your hiking style. Are you going for short day trips? Or planning overnight adventures? The pack should match your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I measure my torso for a backpack?
A: You need a friend to help. Measure from the bony bump at the base of your neck (your C7 vertebra) down to the top of your hip bone (iliac crest). This measurement tells you the correct torso length for a backpack.
Q: Can I use a men’s backpack if I’m a woman?
A: You can, but women’s backpacks are shaped differently. They often have narrower shoulder straps and a more curved hip belt to fit a woman’s body better. A women’s pack usually offers more comfort.
Q: How much weight should my backpack hold?
A: A general rule is that your backpack should not weigh more than 20% of your body weight. For shorter hikes, it will be much lighter.
Q: Do I need a rain cover for my backpack?
A: Many backpacks are water-resistant, but not waterproof. A rain cover is a good idea, especially if you hike in wet weather. Some packs come with one.
Q: What does “liters” mean for backpack size?
A: Liters refer to the volume or capacity of the backpack. It tells you how much gear the pack can hold.
Q: How do I adjust my backpack for the best fit?
A: First, loosen all the straps. Put the pack on and adjust the hip belt so it rests on your hips. Then tighten the shoulder straps. Finally, adjust the load lifter straps and sternum strap.
Q: Are expensive backpacks always better?
A: Not always. While higher-priced packs often use better materials and have more features, a moderately priced pack that fits you well is better than an expensive one that doesn’t.
Q: How do I clean my hiking backpack?
A: Most backpacks can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Brush off loose dirt, then wash with a damp cloth. Let it air dry completely.
Q: What’s the difference between a daypack and a backpacking pack?
A: Daypacks are smaller (10-30 liters) for short trips. Backpacking packs are larger (30+ liters) for carrying gear for overnight or multi-day trips.
Q: Should I bring my own water or use a water filter?
A: For day hikes, bringing enough water is usually best. For longer trips, a water filter or purification tablets are essential to stay hydrated from natural water sources.
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.