WordofMany

Backpacks

ultimate buying guide for hiking backpacks for families

By Alex Trekker

Published: 08 Mar 2025

The Great Family Hike Debacle of '24

Let me set the scene: Yosemite National Park, glorious sunshine, the promise of adventure. We – my wife, Sarah, our two kids, Lily and Tom, and I – were geared up for a legendary family hike. I'd spent weeks researching trails, poring over reviews, obsessively checking the weather forecast. I even bought a new, top-of-the-line backpack...only to discover it was completely the wrong size and weight for our needs. That hike? Let's just say it involved more tears (mostly mine, from the sheer weight of my pack), complaining (mostly from the kids), and emergency granola bar rations than actual stunning views. The moral of the story? Choosing the right hiking backpack for a family is crucial. Don't make the same mistakes I did!

Family struggling with overloaded hiking backpacks | Image: Supplied

What to Look For in a Family Hiking Backpack: Capacity and Comfort

So, what should you look for? First, think capacity. How much stuff do you realistically need to carry? Think water bottles (lots of them!), snacks, sunscreen, first-aid kit, extra layers, rain gear...the list goes on! For a family of four, you're probably looking at backpacks with at least 50 liters of capacity, maybe more. Then there is the all important factor of comfort. We're talking adjustable torso lengths, padded hip belts (seriously, this is essential), and breathable back panels. Nobody wants sweaty, chafing backs ruining a perfectly good family adventure. Remember my Yosemite disaster? Never again!

Comfortable, high-capacity hiking backpacks | Image: Supplied

Features to Consider: Internal and External Organization

Organization is key, especially with kids involved. Look for backpacks with plenty of pockets – both inside and out. Separate compartments for water bottles are great, as are smaller pockets for snacks and personal items. External attachment points for trekking poles or other gear also come in handy. Internal dividers are helpful to keep everything from mixing up together. Trust me, you'll thank me later when you don't need to root around frantically searching for your youngest’s favorite teddybear.

Hiking backpacks with numerous pockets and compartments | Image: Supplied

Choosing the Right Backpack Size for Each Family Member

Don't make the mistake I made! Every family member needs a properly sized pack, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. This is crucial! Kids, especially, need packs that are appropriately sized for their bodies and the amount they can comfortably carry. A pack that is too large or too heavy can lead to discomfort and frustration. Many brands offer kids’ packs that are designed with their unique needs in mind. Think bright colors, fun designs, and features like a hydration bladder. (And don't forget to let them help pick out their own!).

Kids hiking backpacks | Image: Supplied

Top Brands and Models for Family Hiking Backpacks

There's no single 'best' brand or model, but some stand out for their quality, durability, and family-friendly features. Brands like Osprey, Deuter, Gregory, and Kelty all produce excellent backpacks for families. Osprey Atmos AG and Atmos AG 65 are excellent choices. Deuter Aircontact Lite series is another great contender. Look for reviews and comparisons to get the best idea for your specific family needs. Remember those reviews I read obsessively before Yosemite? They were pretty useless...

Osprey Atmos AG 65, Deuter Aircontact Lite series | Image: Supplied

Budget Considerations: Balancing Quality and Price

A good quality hiking backpack is an investment. However, you don't need to break the bank to find a reliable and functional pack. Look for sales, compare prices from different retailers, and consider used packs. That's right! Checking second hand places is a great tip!. Just make sure it's in good condition before you buy.

budget-friendly hiking backpacks | Image: Supplied

Final Thoughts: Adventure Awaits!

Choosing the right hiking backpack for your family is a game changer. With a little research and planning, you can ensure that your next family hike is filled with joy, adventure, and breathtaking views – not tears, complaints, and emergency granola bars. So, go forth, equip yourselves wisely, and create some unforgettable memories on the trail! What are you waiting for?