Best Hiking Backpacks Under $100 You Need To Know For 2026

Looking for a hiking backpack to up your outdoor game, but don’t want to spend too much money? Here are the 9 best hiking backpacks you can get for under $100 without missing out on functionality or style.

I was recently on a hunt for a hiking backpack or daypack for weekend hikes. Before that, I realised that I was trying to bring as few things as possible on hikes because I just didn’t have the right backpack. Even though some hikes may be shorter, you still need a hiking backpack to bring enough water, snacks, a cap, a camera etc.

However, I also realised that many of the recommended best hiking backpacks can be a little expensive for those who are just starting to get into outdoorsy activities.

Today I want to show you that you can still get excellent day packs and hiking backpacks for under $100, along with pros and cons to help you decide which backpack is for you. I’ve also included a few of the best stylish backpacks designed by top outdoor brands that are sure to make heads turn!

This article uses affiliate links where I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This article uses affiliate links where I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

1. Osprey Daylite Plus Pack

Best overall and suitable for everyday use

The Osprey Daylite Plus Pack is the number 1 choice for those looking for a versatile and reliable backpack. It can be used for hiking and also for everyday activities as the padded inner sleeve can function as a compartment for either a hydration bladder or a laptop.

The backpack’s handle is also designed such that you can slide it through luggage handles, making it perfect as a travel bag. However, since there’s only one size for this backpack, the handle design may not be comfortable for some people as it may press against the neck. If you’re worried about that, you can always try it out at home and return it if it doesn’t suit you.

This Osprey backpack also ticks the box on the breathability factor, as it has the AirScape™ mesh-covered back panel with ridged foam to enable airflow. With a decent capacity to weight ratio of 1.0, you are getting the best of all worlds and it’s the perfect hiking backpack under $100.

2. REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack

Best for value-for-money affordability

The REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack offers exceptional value at 22 L capacity and weighs just 14 oz. Overall, it does exactly what a hiking backpack should and is hard to beat at this price. In addition, this is the lightest backpack on our list which makes it easy for a beginner to bring for a hike.

Although the material is fairly thin and not as durable as other hiking backpacks, it would hold up well for most hiking situations where you’re not bumping against rocks and branches. It is also easily packable as a hiking day pack on longer backpacking trips.

If you’ve always been hesitant to get a hiking backpack because of the cost, this backpack is your best bet as it strikes a good balance between cost and performance. It was exactly this reason that made us get this as one of the best value-for-money hiking backpacks under $100.

3. REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack

Best for larger loads

The REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack is suitable for those who need extra space for their outdoor or hiking gear. With its 25 L capacity, it’s perfect for longer day hikes as well. If you have camera equipment, this backpack also has a spacious interior for it and even a rain cover included to protect your gear.

It also has a number of great features for a hiking backpack including 5 exterior pockets, an internal frame that shields your back from any protruding gear, and hooks for attaching trekking poles.

4. Gregory Nano 22 H2O Hydration Pack

Best for a hydration solution

The Gregory Nano 22 H2O Hydration Pack is ideal for hikers who prioritise staying hydrated. If you’ve always struggled with drinking enough water while hiking, or you are looking to switch to a hydration bladder, this backpack is perfect for you. It’s also a great deal because it comes with the Gregory 3 L hydration reservoir so you don’t have to purchase one separately. Naturally, hydration routing is already integrated into this backpack.

5. Cotopaxi Batac Del Dia 24L Pack

The Cotopaxi Batac Del Dia 24L Pack is an eye-catching choice where each backpack has a unique color combination. It also has a laptop sleeve, so perhaps that makes up for the lack of a dedicated hydration bladder compartment. Note that if you buy this backpack from REI, you may not know what colors you’re getting.

6. Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic

The Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic is indeed the classic design of outdoor backpacks. You might have seen this in those “outdoor aesthetic” type of photos. It’s also made from a very sturdy material so you don’t have to get too worried about the backpack getting scraped while you’re outdoors. Overall, this hiking backpack is a crowd pleaser if you’re not particular about hiking-specific features.

2026 update: This backpack has increased to $109, but still seems like a pretty good price.

How to evaluate features of hiking backpacks under $100

When deciding on the best hiking backpacks and day packs, we looked at these features when comparing, especially since they’re all under $100.