This article is for those that just want reviews on decent backpacks. For more detailed advice read How To Choose The Best Backpack, where I discuss the best brands, designs and ideal size of backpack.
1. Osprey Fairpoint (55 + 15 Litre / 40 + 15 Litre)
Summary
If you want top of the line look no further
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Osprey make very high quality and tough backpacks. The best thing about the Fairpoint is the design. It comes with a good quality day pack, but most importantly opens like a suitcase.
Compression straps hold the contents tight and in place, and also help to significantly increase the amount you can fit into the bag. The lightweight materials it is made from make it one of the lightest travel packs around at this capacity.
It looks pretty slick too. The Fairpoint comes in two sizes 55L with a 15L day pack (the ideal backpack size) or a slightly smaller version (40L with a 15L day pack) for those that want to travel lighter. There is also a female version.
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2. Vango Freedom (60 + 20 Litre)
Summary
Best all rounder; great price, mid-sized, fantastic design, sturdy and comfortable.
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Specifically made for gap year travellers, the Vango Freedom is basically a cheaper version of the Osprey Fairpoint, with the same great suitcase style opening. It is very well made, sturdy and is slightly larger than the Fairpoint at 60L with a 20L daypack.
The bag is prepared for air travel featuring a flight cover to protect the straps while in transit.
It comes in two colours; purple and black.
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3. Outad (60 Litre)
Summary
Best low cost backpack
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If you are on a very tight budget this is the backpack for you. The Outad is easily the best on the market for price and quality combined. You won’t find a better backpack for under £50, however it is a top loader and if you don’t already have a day pack you will need to factor that cost in, as the Outad doesn’t come with one.
Although it is incredibly equipped for the price, coming with access for a hydration bladder on the top, rain cover on the bottom and a survival whistle on the chest strap.
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4. Deuter Act Lite (40 + 10 Litre)
Summary
Best small backpack and a popular ladies backpack
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Deuter make extremely good and reliable backpacks; the only downside is that they are all top loaders. The Act Lite is one of their best; a fantastic little backpack for those who want to travel light. (It might also be a good backpack for women that are smaller than average).
It is a little pricey, however you get what you pay for in terms of quality – it won’t let you down.
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5. Berghaus Jalan / Mule (60 + 20 Litre)
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My backpack is a Jalan, as I mentioned above it is no longer for sale, but this is the closest version to it. Berghaus make extremely reliable and robust backpacks and their Jalan & Mule bags have those brilliant suitcase style openings and included daypacks.
Security is at the forefront of the design, with it’s discreet looks and strategically positioned zips. Constructed from hard wearing fabric, the Mule comes with a padded harness and chest strap.
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…and if you a need a day pack
Lowe Alpine Edge Daypack (18 Litre)
Summary
If you have a main pack and just want a quality day pack
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The Edge is a comfortable, versatile, all-round, solid day pack at a great price.
The main compartment features an elasticated pocket, perfect for storing your daily accessories, or it can be used to hold a hydration bladder. The front compartment of the daysack includes a handy mesh pocket with zip closure, which is ideal for storing smaller items to help make them easier to find when you need them.
On the outside of the Edge, you’ll find two mesh bottle pockets and a daisy chain attachment, which allows you to attach accessories and bits of gear to the outside of the bag.
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Andes Hydration Pack (8 Litre Pack + 2 Litre Water Bladder)
Summary
Best hydration pack - great for adventurers
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Hydration packs are brilliant if you are planning on things like long treks, bike rides, etc. The Andes Hydration Pack is easily the best value for money with enough space to store other things you might need.
It comes in a huge range of colours, and has two handy mesh pockets at either side of the bag.
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…but don’t take too much, as a large, heavy backpack will be the bane of your travels
• Try to limit size to no more than a combined 80 litres between your main and day pack
