The Best Cheap Hiking Backpack Under $100

A hiking backpack is the most important piece of equipment when planning for a hiking trip!

No matter how good the climate or your company is, your hiking backpack is what really makes or breaks the whole experience. That’s because there’s nothing more annoying than hauling an uncomfortable and heavy pack when you’re out in the wilderness.

Considering these facts and you’ll see that investing in the best hiking backpack is worth every penny!

But are you confused by all the hiking backpack options available on the market?

To ease your dilemma, we’ve ranked the top 11 best hiking backpacks under 100 dollars and included an insightful buying guide.

Best Hiking Backpacks under $100 in 2020

Under 50L size

​1. Osprey Packs Daylite Plus Daypack: Best 20L Backpack under $100

Osprey is one of the industry leaders when it comes to making the best backpacks – period!

They have been meticulously designing premium-quality daypacks and backpacks for adventure fanatics, their Daylite Plus being one of them.

If you are looking for a decent hiking backpack that can carry a day’s worth of gear, then Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack is your pick.

Simple Design

The Daylite Plus daypack is versatile, lightweight and comfortable enough to take on short hikes. The best thing about it is that you can use it as an accessory and attach it to larger Osprey backpacks like Atmos or Fairview for extra storage space.

Versatile Interior Sleeve

The internal sleeve is multi-functional, as it can accommodate your hydration reservoir (3L) or even a tablet/laptop (up to 14”). In addition, there is a large main compartment and plenty of pockets on the front and sides to handily store your gear.

Breathability

The back panel features slotted foam suspension with mesh covering to repel moisture and promote ventilation, while the ‘spacer-mesh’ shoulder straps provide comfortable carrying experience.

For added comfort, Osprey also offers die-cut EVA foam padding throughout, an adjustable sternum strap on the front and a detachable 20mm hip belt.

Premium Construction

The heavy-duty 20L Daylite Plus pack is made from 210D Nylon Double Diamond Rip-stop. Its bottom and accents feature 400D Nylon pack-cloth material for better durability.

The backpack weighs approximately 1 pound – which is perfect for short, 1-day hikes. The backpack measures 18”H x 10”W x 9”D.

Things we like

• ​Premium construction
• ​Can be attached to larger Osprey packs
• ​Plenty of storage pockets
• ​Breathable shoulder straps and back panel
• ​Includes hydration bladder/laptop sleeve
• ​Lightweight, comfortable 20L pack
• ​Includes sternum strap with whistle and a hip belt
• ​Backed by Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee

Things we don’t like

• ​Water bottle tends to fall out from the poorly designed side mesh pockets
• ​Shoulder straps can dig into your neck

Final Verdict

Osprey Daylite Plus is the best hiking daypack under $100 if you are looking for a compact, lightweight 20L pack to carry on short adventures. Superior durability and breathable design are its main highlights!

​2. ​TETON Sports Oasis Hydration Pack: Best 18L Daypack under $100

TETON Sports Oasis is a great hydration backpack with a hint of style and pizzazz!

The Oasis 1100 pack is aesthetically pleasing and ideal for short trips, be they hiking, cycling, running or climbing. For the price, this bag is exceptionally versatile and durable altogether, so you surely won’t be disappointed.

FREE Hydration Bladder

The main highlight with this backpack is it includes a 2L hydration bladder featuring a hassle- free, kink-free sip tube. It also has an inventive bite valve with push-lock cushioning. The

bladder has a large 5cm (2”) opening, so you can store ice cubes or clean the inside effortlessly.

Low Profile Cut

As the pack is purpose-made for day hikes, it has a nice, low-profile cut which comfortably conforms to your back. The shoulder, sternum, and waist straps are all adjustable to provide the best fit.

The main shell is crafted out of rugged and fairly durable Rip-stop material.

Good Stability

Oasis 1100 features contoured shoulder straps which have a high-density notched foam stabilizer inside to provide good stability. Furthermore, the straps are further reinforced with mesh covering in order to promote breathability. Overall, the athletic cut of the pack is perfect for both men and women.

The Oasis 1100 is light, adjustable, comfortable, and is just the right price. It’s an 18-Liter backpack and a terrific companion for all your day-long or overnight outdoor adventures.

Things we like

• ​Waist belt expands up to 60”
• ​Includes a FREE hydration bladder with bite valve and sip tube
• ​Includes a rain cover
• ​Breathable, comfortable design
• ​Compression straps reduce bounce
• ​Great for short hikes
• ​Reasonably priced

Things we don’t like

• ​Zippers are poor quality
• ​Several complaints about hydration bladder leakage

Final Verdict:

If you don’t like to carry water bottles, but want a high-quality hydration system with a backpack, go for the Oasis 1100. This 18L pack is lightweight, comfortable and adjustable – perfect for day-long or overnight adventures.

​3.​ Osprey Packs Hikelite 18 Hiking Backpack: Best Hiking Daypack under $100

Now this one here is a high-end, best hiking daypack under $100. Everything that you’d expect in a premium hiking pack, you’ll find in Osprey Packs Hikelite.

Backpackers who’d like to see some innovative technical features for exceptional comfort and

breathability won’t be disappointed with Hikelite.

Ventilation

The Hikelite backpack has a suspended-mesh Airspeed back support which will keep away moisture and prevent sweaty hiking experiences.

Airspeed Suspension

Another bonus with this high-end daypack is its mesh back panel featuring a LightWire frame for better stability and support. The air vents on the side provide additional ventilation and comfortable fit.

Padded Harness

Shoulder straps on the Hikelite pack feature perforated EVA foam on the inside with bio-stretch mesh covering. This design promotes good ventilation and is a comfortable fit.

The ergonomically designed spacer-mesh hip belt further adds to the convenience.

Storage Options

Along with the integrated rain cover, the backpack includes two lower loops for attaching trekking poles, a hydration sleeve (fits up to 3L bladder) and several front and side mesh pockets for storing small gear.

Things we like

• ​Includes a rain cover
• ​Airspeed back panel is well-ventilated
• ​Backed by Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee
• ​Includes sternum strap and webbing hip belt
• ​Internal LightWire frame provides support
• ​Internal hydration sleeve holds up to 3L bladder
• ​2 loops for attaching trekking poles

Things we don’t like

• ​The rain cover is not completely waterproof
• ​The frame design can cause damage to your clothing

Final Verdict

Osprey Packs Hikelite is an 18L daypack which is suitable for serious or casual short hikes. If great ventilation and extreme comfort are your priorities, this Hikelite backpack is your best candidate! In addition, it has great longevity, due to the use of premium, rugged materials.

​4. ​MOUNTAINTOP Hiking Backpack: Best 40L Backpack under $100

Mountaintop Hiking Backpack is a highly impressive 40L pack which offers excellent value for money and is suitable for short treks.

The design of the pack is kept simple and is ideal for when you’re carrying a lot of hiking equipment such as a tent, sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc. The bag measures 13”L x 7.9”W x 21.7”H, so it can hold your 17” laptop with ease.

Rugged Straps System

The best thing about the Mountaintop 40L pack is how its strap system supports various hiking gear. The front straps secure your sleeping bag bracket, whereas the top straps hold your sleeping bag.

On both sides, you’ll find attachment straps where you can hang a trekking pole, tent or

hammock. You can stash snacks, water bottles or charger in the side mesh pockets.

Plenty of Space

The main compartment of this pack is divided into several smaller compartments including a large space for holding a hydration reservoir and sip tube. For effortless maneuvers, the backpack is equipped with an adjustable chest strap, adjustable hip belt and padded shoulder straps. The back panel feels quite comfortable due to its ventilated molded foam design.

What’s most impressive here is that you can quickly access the main compartment via the bottom pocket.

Great Construction

Mountaintop 40L backpack is made from water-resistant polyester and comes with a rain cover. It will easily survive short, day-long hikes where you won’t be carrying gear which is too heavy.

Perfect for Airline Travel

The Mountaintop 40L pack is the perfect size to match an airline’s carry-on luggage regulations. Therefore, your waiting time at check-ins and luggage carousels will be greatly reduced.

Things we like

• ​Spacious design
• ​Adjustable hip belt fits waists from 25 to 55 inches
• ​Breathable back panel and comfortable shoulder straps
• ​Complies with airline carry-on rules
• ​Includes a rain cover
• ​Plenty of color options
• ​Strap system for holding hiking equipment
• ​D-loops for hanging extra items

Things we don’t like

• ​Not for serious overnight hiking where you’ll need to carry rugged gear
• ​YKK zippers are poor quality

Final Verdict

This model by Mountaintop is hands-down the best budget 40L backpack under $100. You cannot rely on it for heavy backpacking, but for short treks and hikes, it is certainly adequate for carrying your hiking equipment like a pro!

​5.​ Outlander Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack

Outlander incorporates a true space-saving design in its ultra-lightweight hiking backpack model. The pack has a nice, ultra-lightweight foldable design where you can stuff the pack into its own pocket and open it up just when you reach your hiking destination. How cool is that?

Versatile Use

Outlander Ultra Lightweight is a versatile backpack that comes in myriads of lively colors. Be it for everyday use or short treks, you can use this backpack for any purpose. There are three size options for you to choose from: 20L, 25L, and 33L.

Water-Resistant

The pack is fairly resistant to wear and tear as well as changing weather conditions, as it is made from water-resistant nylon. For added comfort and longevity, it also features reinforced stress points with sturdy bar tacks, mesh shoulder straps, and durable 2-way SBS metal zippers.

Several Compartments

This Outlander pack has a typical backpack shape and features several pockets including a spacious main compartment, an inner security pocket, two front zipper pockets and two side mesh pockets.

It also comes with a FREE carabiner clip, so you can hang additional gear.

Things we like

• ​Folds down into its own zippered pocket
• ​Extremely lightweight; weighs under 0.5 lbs.
• ​Sponge-padded, mesh shoulder straps are adjustable
• ​Heavy-duty SBS metal zippers
• ​Includes a FREE carabiner clip
• ​Several pockets for systematic storage

Things we don’t like

• ​Thin shell material
• ​The inner lining of the pack is prone to wear out after just a few uses
• ​Not water-resistant as claimed
• ​Doesn’t hold its shape well

Final Verdict

Outlander Ultra Lightweight is a backpack for those on a budget. It’s ideal for light packers who are looking for a space-saving design. The backpack stows into its own pocket for compact storage, which is a huge bonus in itself. However, do not expect the pack to last through more heavy-duty and rugged hiking trips.

Over 50L size

​1.​ TETON Sports Explorer 4000 Backpack: Best over 50L backpack under $100

TETON Sports Explorer 4000 is literally the pack that can hold it all!

It excels in durability, design and ruggedness. So, if you are going to spend two to five days in

the backcountry, here’s your best hiking backpack under $100 that delivers amazing stability.

Premium Fabric

Explorer 4000 is designed with longevity in mind, so it is sure to last for many years. The colored section of the pack is made from 600D Diamond Rip-stop material, whereas the black accents are crafted from 600D Oxford Canvas. The pack measures 32” x 18” x 12”.

Multiple Compartments

For strategic packing, TETON Sports offers multiple compartments including weather-shielded side pockets where you can keep your tent poles or any other long gear. There are multiple directional compression straps which can be used to attach extra gear on the outside. Finally, there’s a large compartment at the base which holds your sleeping bag.

Adjustable and Breathable design

The back of the pack boasts load adjusters at the top, thick padded shoulder straps and a torso adjustment system. Furthermore, the back panel also has an air-channel that keeps your back sweat-free and comfortable, while the open-cell, padded lumbar region provides an amazing fit to both men and women.

Torso length adjusts from 19” to 23”, whereas the waist belt fits waists from 28” to 70”. In addition, you can easily access dual aluminum stays to adjust the pack.

Things we like

• ​Adjustable system for torso, chest, waist and shoulder straps
• ​Sturdy and premium shell material
• ​Compression straps secure your sleeping tent, pad or bag
• ​Bottom and side loops for hanging extra gear
• ​Multiple pockets with weather-guard zippers
• ​Holds up to 3L hydration bladder
• ​Includes rain cover
• ​Backed with Lifetime Limited warranty
• ​Two aluminum stays conform to the shape of your back
• ​Large sleeping bag compartment at the base

Things we don’t like

• ​Zippers tend to break after only a few uses
• ​Torso length adjustment system at the back might wear out

Final Verdict

To summarize, the TETON Sports is a strong, durable and spacious pack. It’s great for two to five days of hiking expeditions. However, the design of the torso adjustment system is not great for serious hikers who carry heavy gear.

​2. ​Mountaintop 70L/75L Hiking Backpack: Best 3-day Backpack under $100

In our list of best hiking backpacks under $100, this Mountaintop model is the highest-capacity, professional-style pack for strenuous two- to three-day hiking.

You can expect nothing but great features from this pack.

Plenty of storage options

As this Mountaintop 70L/75L pack is intended for serious hiking, it provides you with tons of storage options to haul your gear around like a pro!

There are side mesh pockets, a bottom compartment for a sleeping bag, a front latching loop and trekking pole attachment. The compression straps and S-shaped, thick-padded shoulder straps further add to the comfort and precise fit.

8 Level Torso-Length Adjustment System

At the back, you’ll see a rugged torso length adjustment system of up to eight levels to fit people of different heights; you must simply adjust the shoulder straps up or down to fit your torso. This thick height adjuster is secured in place with the help of Velcro.

There’s also a sternum strap equipped with an emergency whistle, whereas the densely padded hip belt has two nice zipper pockets for holding small items.

Ventilated Back Panel

The shoulder straps and back panel both feature a nice mesh, padded and breathable design to offer exceptional comfort and ventilation throughout your hiking trip.

Hydration Access and Expandable Collar

The Mountaintop pack is highly compatible with a hydration system, as it provides a separate sleeve for a bladder up to 3L. Another unique feature is the extension collar on the top with two drawstrings, which you can use to expand the main compartment’s capacity by 5L.

Things we like

• ​Includes a rainfly
• ​Sleeping bag compartment at the bottom with divider
• ​Separate sleeve for 3L hydration bladder
• ​Strong 8-level torso adjustment system
• ​Mesh, thick-padded back panel and shoulder straps
• ​Adjustable sternum strap and hip belt
• ​Expandable collar increases the pack’s capacity by 5L
• ​Plenty of pockets, attachment points and loops for hanging gear

Things we don’t like

• ​Waist belt is not removable
• ​Top-loading design makes it hard to access gear in the middle of pack
• ​Side mesh pockets do not hold water bottles well

Final Verdict

The Mountaintop 70L/75L model is the best 3-day backpack under $100 if you prefer an incredibly breathable and adjustable design.

​3. Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack: Best 50L Backpack under $100

With the Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack, your search for a lightweight backpack can come to an end!

With its large 50L capacity, it is still quite light at just 2.6 lbs. The weight is perfect for when you will be walking for long periods.

8 Adjustable Straps

The pack can be compressed down with eight adjustable straps, or you can even use them to hang your sleeping mat, bag, tripod, hammock, etc.

Durable and Comfortable

The design of the backpack is highly supportive with an adjustable waist belt, adjustable torso fit and adjustable strap system near the shoulder to balance overall load.

The back panel has open-cell foam padding with molded channels and a lumbar pad for extreme comfort. Even the shoulder straps feature thick padding to ease the pain of carrying.

Waterproof

As the pack is made from Rip-stop polyester material, the inside is safe from slight drips. But in case of heavy rain, you should use the provided rain cover.

Multiple Pockets

The Loowoko backpack has multiple pockets, including a front zipper pocket, hip belt pockets and side mesh pockets for systematic backpacking.

Things we like

• ​Very lightweight- just 2.6 lbs.
• ​Large 50L storage capacity
• ​8 adjustable straps to hold gear or compress the pack
• ​Made from water-resistant Rip-stop nylon material
• ​Includes a rain cover
• ​Breathable and padded back panel and shoulder straps
• ​Adjustable torso fit, adjustable sternum strap

Things we don’t like

• ​When fully packed, the weight distribution is poor
• ​Strap buckles are poor quality

Final Verdict

Loowoko 50L Hiking pack is the best budget hiking backpack for men and women who prefer lighter packs. It will serve as a great load carrier for two- to four-day trips.

​4. Mountaintop 50L/55L Hiking Backpack

Here’s another decent option from Mountaintop, a 50L + 5L (top removable cover) hiking backpack, intended for overnight casual hikes.

Undoubtedly, the pack is very well-made with water-resistant nylon material, YKK zippers and YKK buckles. So, if you seek a good quality 55L pack with an internal frame, you should go for this one.

Good Bearing System

The 55L pack is ergonomically designed with an aluminum internal frame for precise weight distribution and better support. The shoulder straps and the entire back utilizes air diversion structure in order to keep air flowing. The waist belt, shoulder straps and back panel are all heavily sponge-padded to provide maximum comfort.

Multiple Pockets

As it is a high-capacity pack, it features a top zipper pocket, hip belt pockets, side mesh pockets and a trekking pole attachment. There’s also a front compartment with an inner mesh pocket where you can handily stash your raincoat, jacket, guidebooks, etc.

There are four compression straps, bottom loops and top loops which secure your sleeping mat, tent and other such gear.

Top Collar

If you want additional space, simply expand the capacity of the main compartment by 5L by using the two drawstrings provided.

The main compartment comes with a divider, so you can use the base to store your sleeping bag, shoes or dirty clothes. The pack measures 28.7” x 13” x 9.8”.

Compatible with Hydration System

There’s a separate sleeve to insert your hydration bladder (3L) in the main compartment, along

with easy side access to the sip tube.

Things we like

• ​Extension collar increases capacity by 5L
• ​Separate sleeve for hydration bladder with side access to sip tube
• ​Water-resistant shell with a FREE rain cover
• ​Adjustable hip belt from 30.3” to 57”
• ​Breathable and sponge-padded shoulder straps and back panel
• ​Plenty of attachment points and loops for hanging gear
• ​Huge storage capacity

Things we don’t like

• ​Internal frame isn’t robust, which causes poor suspension
• ​No lumbar support
• ​Hip belt padding is quite thin
• ​No torso length adjustment

Final Verdict

At such an affordable price, the Mountaintop 55L backpack is good for occasional overnight

hiking trips where you won’t be carrying particularly heavy loads. Overall, the padding, bearing capacity and material is perfectly acceptable.

​5. Mardingtop Molle Hiking Internal Frame Backpack

The Mardingtop Molle Hiking Internal Frame Backpack is almost similar to the Mountaintop 55L pack reviewed above. The only difference is that this one is a bit lower-priced and more lightweight.

If you’re on a budget and looking for a high-capacity yet lighter pack, the Mardingtop Molle Hiking Internal Frame Backpack is a great option. It weighs less than 4 pounds!

Single Contoured Internal Frame

There’s one contoured aluminum frame bar inside the pack which you can adjust to the shape of your back. The back panel further boasts a nice molded foam design with airflow channels to maintain air flow.

The shoulder straps and hip belt are both padded and provide good carrying comfort. You can adjust the sternum strap, hip belt and load lifters as per your desired comfort level.

Several Attachment Points

There are numerous attachment points on the outside of this pack, making it convenient to use. The pack has compression straps on the bottom, top, front and even on the side, so you can easily attach your sleeping pad, tent, tarp, etc.

Multiple Pockets

The Mardingtop Molle pack features two top lid pockets, a front pocket, two side mesh pockets and a hip belt pocket. There’s also a slit in the backpack through which you can access your hydration bladder hose.

The main compartment has an internal zippered divider, so you can use the bottom space to store your shoes or sleeping bag.

Extension Collar

If you want to expand the 50L capacity by 5L, simply use the two drawstrings on top to increase the size of the main compartment. The dimensions of the pack are 27.1” x 12.5” x 9.8”.

Things we like

• ​Water-resistant rip-stop polyester shell with a FREE rain cover
• ​Lightweight 55L pack
• ​Affordable price
• ​Plenty of pockets and attachment points
• ​Ventilated back panel and shoulder straps

Things we don’t like

• ​Hip belt doesn’t feel comfortable, particularly for users with large waists
• ​Compression straps might rip off at the seams
• ​No torso length adjustment

Final Verdict:

The Mardingtop Molle Hiking Internal Frame Backpack is a great option for weekend hikes, but as it has many external attachment points, you can extend the trip for a few more days. The bag is well-built, lightweight and contains plenty of pockets!

​6. OutdoorMaster Hiking Backpack 50L

OutdoorMaster Hiking Backpack is the cheapest 50L pack on this list of the best hiking backpacks under $100.

The majority of 50L backpacks have a long, thin structure, but this one has a classic backpack shape and can accommodate plenty of your hiking gear.

Spacious Design

The spacious design of this pack boasts plenty of pockets including a large front pocket, side

mesh pockets, a dedicated rain cover pocket at the base and a padded sleeve for 15.6” laptops.

There are compression straps at the bottom, top and on the sides which can secure your sleeping bag, tent, trekking poles and much more.

Lightweight

This high-capacity pack is quite light, weighing just 2.4 lbs. (1.2kg).

The padded adjustable shoulder straps have mesh covering for added comfort. These straps are also equipped with D-rings where you can hang your sunglasses. For ease of carrying, there’s also a top carrying handle provided.

Durable Design

This OutdoorMaster 50L backpack is made from nylon material and measures 23” x 15” x 8.6”. Therefore, it’s perfect for day hikes where you’ll be carrying extra loads. The best thing is that the top of the pack has a small slit which provides quick access to the water bladder’s sip tube.

Things we like

• ​Lightweight
• ​Cheapest price
• ​Various attachment points and pockets
• ​Compression straps hold gear or cinch down the pack
• ​Includes a dedicated bottom pocket for rain cover
• ​Separate padded sleeve for 15.6” laptop or hydration bladder
• ​Easy access to bladder sip tube
• ​Mesh padded shoulder straps

Things we don’t like

• ​Back panel is not breathable
• ​Not ideal for use in hot climates
• ​Does not have much structural support

Final Verdict

Overall, the OutdoorMaster 50L pack is a good choice for day hikes where you will be carrying a fair amount of gear. The design is definitely not suitable for long hikes though.

Buying Guide for Best Hiking Backpacks

When the market is flooded with hiking backpacks from different brands, it becomes quite difficult to choose one.

To help you with this dilemma, here we have created an in-depth buying guide, so you can pick the best hiking backpack for under $100.

Main factors to consider before buying a hiking backpack:

Volume

The volume of the pack depends on how much you’ll be carrying and what type of hiking you’ll

be indulging in.

Pro hikers generally choose 50L models and pack all their gear into it, while newbies go for much larger packs.

Make sure you consider the number of pockets, compartments and other storage features when selecting a backpack.

• Daypacks: Backpacks with 20L to 30L capacity are generally ideal for day-long, short hiking trips. Such models generally do NOT come with any frame and are much lighter and smaller in size.

• Overnight or Weekend packs: For a weekend hiking expedition, backpacks with 30L to 50L capacity will be more than adequate.
• Multiple-day packs: For three- to seven-day hiking expeditions, you can opt for packs with 40L to 70L+ capacity. These packs can easily carry a tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, trekking poles and other such heavy gear. Such backpacks boast plenty of pockets, attachment points, compression straps and spacious design.

​More: Check out our review for Osprey Aether 70 Here

Frame

• Internal frame: Backpacks with an internal frame are comfortable to carry, as the structure of the bag is internally supported by a sturdy frame. Such packs are suitable for serious hikers to carry with them on strenuous hikes. Frames are commonly made from plastic panels, dual aluminum stays or heavy-duty duralumin rods.
• External frame: Backpacks with an external frame are very heavy and good for carrying larger loads. Such frames are ideal for trail walking or hiking on flat surfaces or in open fields.
• No frame: Quite often, daypacks do NOT have a frame and therefore are cheaper and lighter. This is perfect for shorter hikes. Stating the obvious, these packs are not recommended for serious hikes, as they will not maintain their shape well due to the absence of a frame.

More: Check out our review of Osprey Talon 22 Here

Padding and Breathability

Padding on the shoulder straps and back panel is an important factor to consider when choosing your hiking backpack. That’s because dense padding prevents back ache while provides extreme comfort.

Also, if you’re worried about sweat, go for a pack which has a mesh or air channeled back panel.

Water-Resistant Shell Material

Finding a fully waterproof backpack for under $100 can be quite challenging, but there are a few backpacks that are fairly water-resistant. Such backpacks, along with an extra rain cover, will protect your gear from snow, rain and moisture.

Comfort

If you will be carrying heavy loads, it’s better to go for a hiking backpack that comes with a densely padded hip belt and adjustable sternum strap. These features will provide maximum comfort and help to properly distribute the weight of your load.

Bonus Features to Look for in a Hiking Backpack:

Hydration Bladder and Rainfly

For a few extra bucks, you can get a hiking backpack that has a waterproof rainfly which will protect your gear from heavy downpours.

Packs with a separate sleeve for a hydration reservoir are also great, as hiking during hot weather requires you to carry a large water bladder instead of just a water bottle. Therefore, you should look for a backpack that is compatible with hydration systems.

Several high-end backpacks come with a free hydration reservoir with bite valve and sip tube, which is a huge bonus!

Torso Length Adjustment System

A tall person will be uncomfortable with short backpacks, whereas a short hiker will find tall backpacks annoying.

There are a few premium backpack models which feature a torso length adjustment system at the back, so you can move the shoulder straps up and down to suit your height. This is an excellent and thoughtful feature to have on a hiking backpack.

Additional Pockets or Openings

It’s always great to have side mesh pockets, hip belt pockets, front pockets, and various external attachment points and straps for hanging extra hiking gear.

Few backpacks even include a small slit on the top to provide easy access to the water bladder’s sip tube.

All of these are important features to consider if you want to have a systematic backpacking experience. A greater number of pockets also means that you can have easy access to the smallest of items.

Wrap Up

Who said the best hiking backpacks under $100 are not great?

All the above backpacks under $100 boast amazing features and functionality. The Osprey Packs Daylite Plus ranks highest, thanks to its premium shell and simple, versatile design. It’s the best hiking backpack under $100 with a 20L capacity.

However, if you’re looking for a more spacious backpack, the TETON Sports Explorer 4000 is an excellent option with superior construction, multiple storage features, and a unique torso length adjustment system.

The rugged aluminum stays make the Explorer 4000 ideal for your multi-day treks. Choose the backpack which best suits your hiking requirements!