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How To Get a Backpack Zipper Unstuck

The humble zipper. Like many other inventions that are practically indispensable to our daily lives, we frequently overlook just how useful zippers are. That is, until they become stuck.

If your coat zipper starts playing up on the way to work, it’s annoying to say the least, but it’s not such a big deal. However, if you’re miles from civilization, the weather’s turning and you’re desperately wondering how to get a backpack zipper unstuck, the situation can seem pretty serious. Let’s take a look at what may cause zipper malfunctions and some of the easiest ways to get stuck zippers unstuck.

Why do Zippers Get Stuck?

Zippers are, by their very nature, the most fragile part of a backpack. Backpacks are increasingly made from strong, durable materials, reducing wear and tear and extending their lifespan. Although certain zippers may be stronger and more reliable than others, the mechanism remains the same, and where there’s a possibility of things going wrong, that possibility often becomes a reality.

Zippers are made up of a series of interlocking teeth on opposite side of the zipper tape. The slider, when pulled up or down, either locks the teeth together or forces them apart. While the zipper’s design allows for quick and easy opening and closing, it is often subjected to a variety of situations that are likely to cause malfunctions.

Common Zipper Problems

Common zipper problems often come down to faulty manufacturing, or a poor-quality product. With a top-end backpack, this is less likely to be the case. Zippers may also get stuck due to overstraining, trying to squeeze in that one extra piece of gear that just won’t fit while tugging hard on the slider pull. Over time this can deteriorate the regularity of the teeth’s alignment or the slider’s inner mechanism.

Aside from misalignment from straining, zippers, especially those used in hiking products, can get stuck because of dirt buildup. Small particles like sand, earth, dust, grit and bits of vegetation can clog up the inner mechanism leading to a malfunction resulting in slider and teeth distortion. Fabric from either side of the zipper can also become trapped with similar results.

Ways to Unstick a Stuck Backpack Zipper

If your backpack zipper is refusing to budge, as tempting as it may be to start pulling hard to release it, it’s important to stop and assess the situation. Is any of the surrounding fabric trapped? Was the zipper working fine up until now? Are you going to be relying on your backpack for the next few days?

Before possibly irrevocably breaking your backpack, taking the time to examine the problem can help to provide a solution.

Snagged Zippers

If the zipper is snagged on the surrounding fabric, gently try to reverse it. The more gently you can do this the less likely you are to cause any lasting damage. Sometimes a good deal of patience will be required, holding the trapped fabric a millimeter to the left or right can help to release the slider while slowly reversing it.

Trapped Dirt

If you can’t see any obvious reason for your backpack zipper to be stuck, it could be caused by a buildup of trapped dirt within the slider. Try blowing hard to get any loose particles out before they cause any further problems. Gently try to manipulate the zipper, stopping immediately if there’s any sign of it straining. You may want to try wetting or submerging the zipper area whilst gently jiggling it to remove any trapped dirt.

Other Scenarios

If the zipper is clean, there’s no trapped fabric (remember this could also be on the interior), then your zipper may be faulty. Some people recommend greasing zippers, and you could try it if you happen to have any kind of lubricant to hand. However, this can often be a bad idea as it can attract dirt and grit causing them to stick inside the zipper, making the problem worse, or creating a new one. However, this is a great last-ditch option and could save your backpack.

If your backpack zipper is well and truly broken you should consider your options and upcoming needs before breaking it further. If you’re going to be relying on your backpack for the next few days, you should consider cutting through from another internal compartment with a functioning external zipper if possible. This will maintain the integity and functionality of your backpack, enabling you to continue your hike with the least inconvenience.

If this isn’t possible, decide if you want to rip or cut open your backpack at the zipper opening and try to replace it later upon returning home, or if there’s another more convenient place to cut into your backpack. This opening should be created in a position where it would be easier to tie or somehow fasten shut for the rest of your hiking expedition.

Replacing and Mending Broken Zippers

It can be a waste to throw away a good backpack because of a broken zipper. Zippers themselves are relatively inexpensive and if you can’t fix the zipper yourself, you should be able to find a local company that can replace it for you.

If your zipper is faulty, you may be entitled to a new backpack under your manufacturer’s guarantee. In any case it’s often worth contacting them, you never know, they might at least offer you a discount even if the product itself wasn’t faulty.

How to Avoid Future Zipper Problems

Zipper problems often occur because of misuse, by taking good care of your zipper you will reduce the chances of it getting stuck and extend your backpack’s lifespan.

Helpful hints to keep your zipper from sticking:

Don’t overfill your backpack. Not only is it going to be heavy, trying to squeeze in extra items will strain the zipper. Plan before packing.
Always open the zipper fully when putting your stuff inside. You may just need to quickly slip a container in, but if the opening isn’t wide enough this will cause the teeth to tear apart and increase the likelihood of your zipper getting stuck in the future.
Don’t ever force your zipper, you will cause it to become (even more) stuck. If you’re not the patient type and you don’t urgently need access to your backpack contents, give it a few minutes and try again later.
Clean your zipper after every hike, especially in dirty conditions. Give your backpack a good shake out and wipe over in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Pay attention to the quality of zippers, their positioning and how well they function on future purchases. When possible try before you buy or ask questions online.

Conclusion

It’s not always easy to figure out how to get a backpack zipper unstuck, but a bit of patience and common sense can make all the difference and may save your backpack from unnecessary destruction. If not, you might just have to make the best of a bad situation and look forward to treating yourself to a new backpack, there are worse things that could happen 🙂

Best Backpacking Packs For Men In 2018

When you’re a hiker, at some point, someone will suggest a backpacking or camping trip to you. This isn't everyone's cup of tea, but for many, getting away from the world into the wilderness for a few days, with nothing but what you can carry with you, is an immensely freeing and enjoyable thing to do.

If that resonates with you, you will at some point need to consider investing in a suitable backpack, for just such an adventure. A backpacking backpack differs from a hiking day pack, primarily in size and capacity, but also in some capabilities, as you need that bit more when you are carrying your shelter and sleeping kit with you.

Here in this article, we lay out some of the best backpacking packs for men in 2018, that are currently available on the market today. They all, more or less, have all the functionality and features that you, as a backpacker or camper, should be looking for when getting a suitable backpack for extended trips into the wilderness, so anything from a few days up.

All the backpacks listed here also score well across multiple review sites and multiple user reviews, so if you’re in the market for a new backpacking backpack, they’ll give you plenty of ideas and options to consider.

Quick Navigation

#1 Osprey Atmos AG 65

Where to Start When Choosing a Backpack

#2 Gregory Baltoro 65 Review

#3 Osprey Volt 60 Review

#4 Osprey Xenith 75 Review

#5 The Arc'teryx Bora AR 63 Backpack Review

Best Budget Backpacking Backpacks for Men

#6 Teton Sports Scout 3400 Review

#7 AmazonBasics Internal Frame Hiking Backpack Review

#8 Mountaintop 55L/65L Internal Frame Backpack Review

#9 WASING 55L Internal Frame Backpack Review

Conclusion

#1 Osprey Atmos AG 65

Our Top Backpacking Pack for Men:
The Osprey Atmoss AG 65

Osprey Packs Pack Atmos Ag 65 Backpack, Abyss Grey, Large

Pros:

Osprey Almighty Guarantee – Osprey will repair any damage or defect for any reason or replace your backpack if necessary. This service is provided free of charge, no matter how old your backpack is
Full range of features – pockets, hydration sleeve, attachment points and straps
Extremely comfortable - even when fully loaded, thanks to its wrap-around design and anti-gravity suspension system
Effective ventilation system keeps you cool and dry

Cons:

Price – at the higher end of the price scale for this type of backpack

The Atmos AG 65 Features Summary:

Material: 100D * 630D Nylon Dobby
Adjustable harness and Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt to dial in perfect fit
Dual access stretch mesh side pockets for storing water bottles and other gear
Dual upper and lower side compression straps stabilize loads and maintain a streamlined profile
Internal hydration reservoir sleeve accommodates up to a 3L reservoir
Zippered hipbelt pockets keep snacks and smaller items close at hand
Stow-on-the-Go Trekking pole attachment
Dual ice tool loops with bungee tie-offs
Removable floating top lid with dual zippered pockets and web attachment points
Lower zippered sleeping bag compartment with removable divider

Best Uses: Backpacking for 2+ days, mountaineering, general use e.g. travel

Osprey are one of the leading manufacturers of hiking backpacks, renowned for their quality, comfort, style and efficient design, alongside the famous Osprey lifetime warranty. The Atmos AG 65 backpack has a 65-liter capacity and one of the best suspension systems on the market, AG standing for anti-gravity. Its size and comfort make it the ideal companion on hiking trips lasting 2-7 days.

The Osprey Atmos AG 65 comes in three sizes to ensure a perfect fit, whether your torso length is longer or shorter than the average, with a seamless wrap-around your body design. This design, combined with the highly adjustable harness and hip belt, makes this one of the best-fitting, most comfortable packs you’ll come across. Weighing around 4 lbs (the exact empty weight depending upon size), the Atmos AG 65 packs in a huge array of features at a relatively low weight for an unrivalled level of comfort.

Osprey’s AG suspension system not only effectively transfers weight to your hips, its comfortable back panel is covered with mesh that allows plenty of ventilation between the pack and your back, a feature that keeps backs cool and dry, free from perspiration build up. This is one of this backpack’s most popular features and something that clearly marks out the Osprey AG 65 as a market leader in terms of comfort.

Perfect for a weekend or week-long hiking trip, the Atmos AG 65 has all the space you’ll need, plus dual upper and lower side compression straps. These straps ensure that you remain streamlined and stabilizes less bulky loads.

Removable sleeping pad straps allow you to strap on a sleeping pad without losing internal space, while giving you the option to remove them completely if not needed, reducing catching hazards and annoying dangling bits. Further attachment points include handy stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachments and dual ice ax loops complete with bungee tie offs, so you’ll have your poles or axes within easy reach and ready to go when you need them.

Other popular Atmos AG 65 features include a lower zippered sleeping bag compartment with removable divider, a detachable lid with integrated flap jacket covering to protect your gear, an internal hydration reservoir sleeve (bladders up to 3L), sternum strap with safety whistle, zippered hip-belt pockets for small items and simple but indispensable dual mesh side pockets that can be easily accessed on the go. This pack is water resistant and comes complete with rain cover.

In short, the Osprey Atmos AG 65 is the perfect hiking companion, offering you the space and features you need on a trip out in the wilderness without compromising on comfort. It is at the higher end of the price range for this type of backpack, but for the quality and comfort it provides, this is money well spent.

Where to Start When Choosing a Backpack

If you are totally new to this, it can get confusing when you start to look into it. There are so many options to choose from when trying to find the right backpack for you, and the prices vary so widely, it can be difficult to know where to start.

There are numerous things you need to think about, but first and foremost, you need to think about capacity. A backpacking backpack, will typically run from 50 to 75 liters (but that can be a little less or more). The reason you need more capacity, is that you need to carry your shelter, typically a tent, and your sleeping kit with you.

If you are just heading out for a day out on the trail, then this is much too big, and a day pack is what you need. Now, even between day packs and a backpacking pack, there can be a lot of daylight. A typical day pack could be 25 liters and a backpack, as we have already indicated is up at 65 liter (and beyond) mark.

What about the in between? There are indeed packs in the 30 and 40 liter marks, as well as above 80 liters. What are they for? Well really, it depends what you need them for. For example, if you're a hike leader, a 25 liter day pack may not be enough to carry all the extras you as a leader should be carrying e.g. a bothy bag, safety equipment, etc.

I don't want to stray too far into that, but hopefully it helps to illustrate a point, namely that you need to know what you need your pack for. Typically, for a few days plus backpacking, you need in and around a 65 liter backpack. If that still sounds right, you're in the right place 🙂

We go into the specifics of what you should look for in our backpack buying guide, but as a quick guide, we have listed out the key things in the bullets below:

Internal Frame or External Frame - We recommend you always go with an internal frame
Capacity - as above, how much do you need to carry
Weight - You'll be carrying this on your back so light is good
Material - Durability, strength, water resistance, etc.
Fit - It of course needs to fit well, and be easily adjustable for comfort, etc.
Features - Attachment points for tools, easy access pockets, detachable day pack, etc. What do you need?
Hydration sleeve - Do you need it to be compatible with a hydration sleeve
Ventilation / Air Flow - Does the pack allow your back and torso to breathe when wearing it
Price - What is your budget? As with anything you can spend a lot of money on a good backpack so know your limit

And that's just some of the things to think about. As you can see, there are a lot of factors involved, so it is a good idea to get very clear about what you need and what you would like to have, keeping functionality and comfort at the forefront of your buying decision

So, that's the introductory blurb bit done, let’s crack on and take a closer look at some more of the best backpacking backpacks for men.

#2 Gregory Baltoro 65 Review

Our No. 2 Pick:
The Gregory Baltoro 65

Gregory Mountain Products Men's Baltoro 65 Liter Backpack, Dusk Blue, Medium

Pros:

Snug fit with great weight support make the Baltoro 65 extremely comfortable
Fully customizable harness and lower back support system for enhanced comfort
3D curve hip belt and harness for effective weight transfer to your center of gravity
Sidekick hydration sleeve doubles as a daypack

Cons:

Weather-shield pocket is too small for a lot of today’s smartphones

Gregory Baltoro 65 Backpack Features Summary:

Material: 210D Nylon, 420D HD Nylon
3D Air hipbelt shoulder harness eliminates hotspots and wicks moisture away
Wishbone internal frame made from strong aluminium
Removable hydration sleeve converts into fast and light SideKick Daypack
Included rain cover stows in a quick access zippered pocket on underside of the top lid
Enlarged hipbelt pockets to accommodate modern electronics and standard phone sizes
Matrix Ventilation tech used on backpanel to provide more breathability and airflow
Addition of front reinforced stretch mesh pocket for quick access on the trail
Weight: 4.84 Ibs (2.2kg)

Best Uses: Backpacking, Through Hiking, Hiking, Camping

The Gregory Baltoro 65 backpack is an excellent hiking backpack with a proven track record. Its molded shape and comfortable suspension with adjustable, exchangeable harness offer extra personalization and increased comfort on both long and short hiking trips. Gregory is a small, but well-known brand that have been creating the very best in backpacks since 1977.

The Baltoro is sure to have the space that you need with its 65-liter capacity, while providing easy access to your gear thanks to its front U-shaped zipper. It is made from 210 and 420 denier high-density nylon, ensuring high durability and protection from whatever crosses your path.

Weather-resistant, this backpack benefits from an integrated rain cover which is situated inside the top lid in an easy access zippered pocket. Furthermore, the Baltoro 65 also features a weather-shield pocket with a highly weather-resistant YKK aqua-guard zipper for peace of mind when trekking with electronic devices.

Weighing in at 4.84 lbs (2.2kg), the Baltoro 65 is not the lightest pack in this range, however, it does offer a lot of padding and excellent comfort levels, making it well worth the extra pound or two. This stable backpack has an aluminum wish-bone frame that transfers your load to your center of gravity, assisted by the 3D air hip belt and shoulder harness.

Fashioned from 3D curve technology, complete with air mesh to aid ventilation, the Baltoro 65 relieves pressure and eliminates hot spots for great comfort and stability even when fully loaded. The fully adjustable nature of this backpack’s fittings including its lower-back Lumbar Tune system make this one of the most popular backpacks available on the market. Available in three sizes, this backpack is one of the most highly customizable in terms of fit.

Aside from its highly-rated suspension and customizable harness system, the Baltoro 65 has plenty of other indispensable features for hassle-free hiking. External sleeping bag access allows for easy access, alongside the ergonomic sidewinder bottle holster with drawstring fastening.

This backpack also features a useful “sidekick”, a detachable hydration sleeve that can be converted into a handy daypack, complete with harness and accessory pocket. The main pack has handy dual side-mounted pockets with zipper access for frequent use items, alongside the weather-shield hip belt protection pocket.

#3 Osprey Volt 60 Review

The Bronze Medal Goes To:
Osprey Volt 60 Review

Osprey Packs 10000130 Volt 60 Backpack, Tar Black

Pros:

Osprey All Mighty lifetime guarantee – Osprey will repair or if necessary replace your damaged or defective backpack free of charge
Competitively priced – great brand with excellent quality and features at a mid-range price tag
Excellent storage features – mesh pockets, zippered pockets, pole storage system, tool attachment points, extendible lid and removable sleeping pad straps. There’s a place for everything you need to carry

Cons:

One torso size – means this may not be the pack for you if you measure outside of the torso range
Rain cover not included

Osprey Volt 60 Features Summary:

Material: 210-denier ripstop nylon and steel alloy internal frame
Fit-on-the-fly hip belt pad extends up to 6 inch/15cm to accommodate different hip sizes and provides a custom fit
A floating zippered top pocket with under lid zippered mesh pocket organizes smaller items and can extend to handle oversized loads
Easy torso adjustable harness fits torso sizes 17"-23"/43-58.5cm
Adjustable and removable sleeping pad straps provide secure extra carry
Osprey's stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment is designed to quickly attach and carry trekking poles while wearing a pack
An internal reservoir sleeve is located in the main body of the pack, Allowing easy Loading and unloading of a hydration reservoir
An internal compression strap that helps tighten and stabilize the load
Weight: 3 lbs. 14.7 oz (1.42kg)

Best Uses: Backpacking, camping, travel

Market leaders Osprey have created the Volt 60, an excellent hiking backpack with great features, including the renowned Osprey All Mighty lifetime guarantee. The Volt 60 is in the mid-range in terms of price for this type of backpack.

The Osprey Volt 60 liter backpack is well designed, simple and durable. With enough space for short or medium trips into the wilderness, this competitively priced backpack offers all of the features you need and expect from a top-quality manufacturing brand.

Removable sleeping pad straps and a floating top-pocket that extends to accommodate bulky loads ensure that you’ll have plenty of space for all of your gear, even the more cumbersome items.

Although the Volt 60 only comes in the one size, it is highly adjustable for a personalized fit. Complete with a LightWire peripheral frame, weight is transferred to the hips for better stability, aided by dual side compression straps and the custom fitting hip belt. The torso length can be adjusted by up to five inches, meaning that while there is just one frame size there is room to accommodate a range of torso sizes.

Comfort levels are further enhanced by the mesh back panel which also provides ventilation, preventing a build-up of perspiration between your back and the back panel. Dual mesh side pockets alongside the front mesh stash pocket provide plenty of easy access storage for item that you need to have to hand or wish to keep separate from the main compartment. The internal hydration reservoir sleeve allows for easy refills with a convenient location in the main part of the pack.

The Volt 60 also offers Osprey’s unique stow-on-the-go trekking pole storage system, in addition to secure dual tool-attachment loops, ensuring you’ll have quick and easy access to your poles or axes as and when needed. Zippered hip belt pockets provide you with ideal places to keep all your frequent use, small items easily to hand.

#4 Osprey Xenith 75 Review

Another Top Osprey Pick:
Osprey Xenith 75 Review

Pros:

Osprey All Mighty lifetime guarantee – Osprey will repair or, if necessary, replace your backpack free of charge
Excellent range of pockets and features – all you need for extra storage and accessibility
Multiple sizes and great customized fitting options
Large 75L capacity without compromise on comfort

Cons:

Price – while not excessively priced, it is in the upper price range
Rain cover not included

Osprey Xenith 75 Features Summary:

Material: 420-denier/210-denier high-tenacity nylon/500-denier nylon packcloth
Floating, removable top lid with top- and under-lid zippered pockets converts to a DayLid™ daypack for bagging peaks or taking side trips from camp
Integrated FlapJacket™ flap protects gear when top lid is removed
Stow-on-the-Go™ trekking-pole attachment allows you to stow your poles in steep terrain or whenever you need your hands free
Multiple access points to the main compartment and plenty of good organization options make grabbing your gear quick and easy
Dual side zips provide easy access to gear stored in the main compartment without having to remove the top lid
Front stretch-mesh pocket offers quick storage; dual-access stretch-mesh side pockets stow water bottles; 2 zippered front pockets provide additional storage and organization options with 2 zippered hipbelt pockets for quick access to smaller items
Dual side compression straps stabilize loads and maintain a slim pack profile when not fully packed
Sternum strap with integrated safety whistle; dual ice-tool attachment points
Zippered, wide-mouth sleeping bag compartment with removable divider
Weight: M: 5 lbs. 7 oz. (2.6kg)

Best Uses: Backpacking, camping, travel

The Osprey Xenith 75 backpack is designed for carrying loads between 40-70 lbs, making it a great choice for large loads on extended hiking trips, combining practicality and comfort with the lifetime repair or replace All Mighty guarantee that Osprey is famous for.

The Xenith 75’s capacity is complemented by removable sleeping pad straps, while the dual compression straps ensure that your load will be stable and allow you to attach extra gear to the pack. The stretch mesh frontal pocket is also useful for storing extra layers, while the mesh side pockets can easily accommodate water bottles or tent poles. Zippered pockets on the hip belt provide extra secure storage for small, frequent-use items.

Available in three sizes (75, 88 and 105), the Xenith 75 adapts to your torso size through its adjustable BioForm harness. This gender-specific shaped harness has no sewn seams for optimum comfort and fit, while the firm yet cushioned hip belt can be heat molded to provide an individual, tailored fit.

The back panel is covered in reversed mesh for enhanced breathability, essential when carrying a heavy load. Supported by a single 6061-T6 central stay, the back panel maintains its form while the LightWire frame efficiently transfers weight to your center of gravity for improved stability and ease of movement.

Other highly-rated features include a detachable dual compartment top pocket that converts to a lumbar pack complete with hip belt. This is especially useful for side trips on extended hiking trips. An external hydration sleeve is ideally located within the back panel, making refills quick and easy, keeping your gear dry and undisturbed.

A wide mouth sleeping bag compartment allows ease of access with a removable divider to keep your pack organized. The Xenith 75 also features the Osprey stow-on-the-go trekking pole system and secure tool attachment points with bungee tie-offs, meaning you can keep your hands free while maintain easy access to your poles and tools.

This large hiking backpack is durable and comes with a vast array of sophisticated and traditional features. It is nearer the higher end of the price range for this type of hiking backpack, yet it still offers good value for money.

#5 The Arc'teryx Bora AR 63 Backpack Review

Our Top Arc'teryx Pick:
Arc'teryx Bora AR 63

Pros:

Advanced hip belt technology - rotating hip belt eliminates chafing
Durable nylon material with weather-resistant treated areas
Thermo-molded frame for a snug, close-to-body fit
Detachable top lid

Cons:

Expensive price tag – this backpack is at the very top of the price range for this type of backpack
Some customers have had issues with the rotating hip belt, questioning its ability to effectively transfer weight to the hip area, while others have found it to lack durability
No bottom straps to attach equipment

The Arc'teryx Bora AR 63 Backpack Features Summary:

Material: 420- and 630-denier nylon fabrics capped with weatherproof AC fabric in areas exposed to rain or snow
Patented RotoGlide hipbelt rotates side-to-side and glides up and down for a more natural stride that reduces chafing and improves balance
GridLock shoulder straps adjust both in width and height for a precision fit
Thermo-molded Tegris framesheet and aluminum stays help distribute the load evenly between shoulders and hips
Ventilated back panel keeps air circulating to cool your back
Large-volume outer kangaroo pocket holds bulky or wet gear
Hydration reservoir compatible (reservoir sold separately)
Pack is top-loading, but side-access zips allow access to gear
removable, extendable top lid with zippered compartment
Side pockets can carry 1-liter water bottles or trekking poles; 2 mesh hipbelt pockets keep small items close at hand
Weight: 5 Ibs (2.3kg)

Best Uses: Backpacking, camping, travel

Canadian company Arc’teryx, founded in 1989, are known for their high-quality, stylish outdoor clothing and sporting goods. The Bora AR 63 is a versatile, multi-day hiking trip backpack, designed to withstand the elements and winner of the 2017 Backpacker Magazine Editor’s Choice Award.

The Bora AR 63 is available in two torso sizes, regular and tall, for optimum fit, combined with the GridLock™ shoulder strap adjustment system which adjusts in width and height. The patented hip belt further adjusts to your size and rotates side to side with an up and down movement to eliminate chafing and hot spots. Made from durable nylon fabric in both 420 and 630 deniers, certain exposed areas of the Bora AR 63 are coated in weatherproof AC2.

Its 63-liter capacity and 5 lb weight make it ideal for 3-7 day hiking trips, allowing you to easily pack all your essentials. The backpack is top loading with side access zippers. The lid is closed with two buckles and it is both extendible and removable. Mesh hip belt pockets are useful for keeping small items close to hand, and the handy side pockets can be used to transport 1 L water bottles or trekking poles. The Bora AR 63 is also compatible with most 2L hydration bladders.

Other features include a kangaroo pocket, ventilated back panel for increased airflow, two ice axe loops, a top lid zippered compartment and a thermo-molded Tegris® frame sheet with aluminium stays. This ensures a good weight distribution, although questions have been raised about the pack’s ability to effectively transfer weight to the hip area with a hip belt that rotates.

The Bora AR 63 is at the top end of the price range for this type of hiking backpack, it certainly looks the part and has many trademarked features.

Best Budget Backpacking Backpacks for Men

In this section we move into the best budget backpacking packs for men. If you're on a tight budget, then you may find something to suit your needs here. The backpacks listed here are cheaper than what we have looked at so far. that's all good, but we need to set a caveat.

That caveat is that you need to set your expectations appropriately. As a general rule, as you probably know, you get what you pay for. With that in mind, the backpacks listed below are cheaper, so it follows, they may not be as good quality as the previous listed ones.

That is not set in stone though, and it depends on your needs and your budget. All the backpacks listed below have lots of excellent user reviews and stand up well in use tests out in the field, so they are good packs. Ultimately, it's your opinion that counts, but we wanted to flag this before we push on. OK, so onward!

#6 Teton Sports Scout 3400 Review

Our Top Budget Backpack:
Teton Sports Scout 3400

Teton Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack; High-Performance Backpack for Backpacking, Hiking, Camping; Sewn-in Rain Cover; Hunter Green

Pros:

Limited lifetime warranty covers this backpack against defects in materials or workmanship
Extremely low price – makes this backpack excellent value for money - It's the top selling internal frame backpack on Amazon
Different compartments and pockets for organized storage
Made from strong, durable materials

Cons:

Some customers have had issues with fastenings reliability – drawstrings, buckles and zipper pulls breaking or not working efficiently
Less comfortable than higher-quality, more expensive backpacks

Teton Sports Scout 3400 Features Summary:

Material: 600D diamond ripstop and 600D Oxford canvas shell
Fully adjustable shoulder straps and torso length to fit a wide variety of people
Front mesh storage pocket with hook and loop closure
Integrated bright yellow water-resistant rainfly
Capacity: 3400 cubic inches (55 L)
Weight: 4.5 pounds (2 kg)
Multi-position torso adjustment fits wide range of body sizes
Durable open-cell foam lumbar pad and molded channels provide maximum comfort and airflow
Unisex backpack for men and women
Large sleeping bag compartment
Multi-directional compression straps
Multiple compartments and pockets for strategic packing
Two hand pockets with WaterTight™ (water resistant) zippers

Best Uses: Backpacking, camping, travel.

The Teton Sports Scout 3400 backpack is an excellent starter, entry-level model that is extremely competitively priced, making it one of the top-selling models in this category. It has a 55L capacity and a 4.5 lb weight, making it ideal for hiking trips that last several days with an internal frame for added support and weight distribution.

Although the Scout 3400 is low in price, it has a large number of features. It can be adjusted to fit a large range of torso sizes and it also has an adjustable waist strap. Comfort is further enhanced by the thick, padded shoulder straps that can be adjusted depending upon the load. The back panel is covered with open cell foam to increase airflow and ventilation, helping to keep you dry.

The Scout 3400 is an extremely durable backpack, made from 600 denier diamond ripstop and a 600 denier Oxford canvas shell, so you won’t have to worry about rips or tears. With plenty of zippered pockets, multiple compartments and a large sleeping bag compartment, the Scout 3400 has all of the space you’ll need for a few nights away from the comfort of home.

Multi direction compression straps help to stabilize the load and ensure that your gear doesn’t move around when you’re on the go. The large mesh storage pocket is useful to keep frequently used items to hand, while the integrated rainfly will protect your backpack and gear in the event of a downpour.

The Teton Sports Scout 3400 is a budget backpack that is a good choice for those looking for a starter backpack for overnight hiking trips. Although it may not be the most comfortable, it has a lot of very positive reviews and is definitely an interesting one to consider at a low price.

#7 AmazonBasics Internal Frame Hiking Backpack Review

No. 2 In Our Budget Picks:
AmazonBasics Internal Frame

AmazonBasics Internal Frame Hiking Backpack with Rainfly, 65 L, Black

Pros:

Amazon one-year warranty – for peace of mind, protection against defects and Amazon’s renowned customer service
Good all-rounder with plenty of storage space
Rain cover included to protect your gear
Excellent value for money

Cons:

Shoulder straps loosen with heavy loads
Very small sleeping bag compartment

The AmazonBasics Internal Frame Backpack Features Summary:

Material: Durable polyester
Internal-frame backpack for hiking and camping
Extensive storage pockets and compartments
Large sleeping-bag compartment
Multi-directional compression straps
Adjustable straps for a secure fit, lumbar support for added comfort
Thick padded shoulder straps
Integrated water-resistant rainfly, water-repellent exterior coating for light rain
Waterproof cover for heavier rain
Extension collar for added, optional storage space

Best Uses: Hiking, backpacking, camping

Amazon sell a range of their own products, which are designed to be no frills, basic, entry-level items that do the job. This AmazonBasics Hiking Backpack with Internal Frame is great value for money and would make an excellent purchase for anybody who is looking to try out hiking as a new activity, or who just likes a bargain. Designed for several days hiking, with a 65-liter capacity and numerous features, this backpack has all you need for a trip into the wilderness.

This AmazonBasics Internal Frame hiking backpack is designed for a range of torso sizes, with an adjustable waist belt and shoulder straps. The open cell foam-covered back panel offers good support and ventilation, helping you stay cool and dry. The shoulder straps are broad and padded to help improve comfort levels when carrying heavy loads.

Made from durable polyester, this backpack is robust and comes with a water-repellant exterior coating. A rain cover is also included for ultimate protection during heavy downpours. Other noteworthy features include an extensible collar to enable you to transport more bulky items, numerous pockets for extra storage and ease of access, a sleeping bag compartment with external opening and multi-directional compression straps to ensure pack stability.

Weighing just over 4lbs, this backpack is a great weight for an extended hiking trip backpack. It also has a pouch for a hydration bladder (not included) with Velcro fastening located within the main compartment.

This backpack is excellent value for money, coming in at a very low price for an internal frame hiking backpack that’s suitable for extended trips. Of course, there are some quality issues, but you do get a fully functioning backpack, with many great features for a tiny price.

This backpack is great for those looking to try out hiking without spending a lot or for people who are on a tight budget. Anyone who is familiar with hiking and has experienced higher quality models will likely be disappointed by this backpack, through no fault of its own.

#8 Mountaintop 55L/65L Internal Frame Backpack Review

Mountaintop Internal Frame Backpack

Mountaintop 65L Outdoor Hiking Backpack Camping Backpack Internal Frame Bag, Black

Pros:

A low priced and functional backpack that’s very affordable
Numerous pockets and storage compartments
Adjustable waist strap for extra load support
Top lid can be extended for extra storage capacity

Cons:

Poor design – performs best with minimal loads
Uncomfortable with little support/padding

Mountaintop Internal Frame Backpack Features Summary:

Material: Water-resistant Nylon
An extension collar with drawstring on the top can expand the pack and increase the main compartment capacity by 5 liters
2 hip-belt pockets, 2 lid pockets, 1 bladder sleeve, 1 front pocket, 1 rain cover (included) compartment and two mesh bottle pouches
Comes with a high visibility rain cover
Sternum strap with emergency whistle buckle
Deep and dense padded shoulder straps and hip-belt promoting air circulation along your back and shoulders
Trekking pole attachment and bottom loops for ice axe or hiking poles
Two key hooks in main compartment for your keys or water bladder
Both sides of the shoulder straps has a D-shape hook, in which small items can be linked to
Weight: 4.9 lbs (2.23 kg)
Dimensions: 29.5 x 11.8 x 9.1 inches (75 x 30 x 23 cm)

Best Uses: Hiking, backpacking, camping, travel

The Mountaintop 55/65L Internal Frame backpack is an economically priced, entry level backpack. This backpack is a good choice for those on a budget. If you’re new to hiking and want to test the water before you invest in a more expensive backpack, then this could be an option for you.

Featuring an internal frame to help to evenly distribute weight, this backpack also has thick padded shoulder straps with D-shaped attachment points. An adjustable waist strap helps to make heavier loads more comfortable and stable, while trekking pole attachments add extra functionality.

This Mountaintop backpack also has a sternum strap with an emergency whistle buckle and bottom loops for ice axes. A top lid extensible collar with drawstring increases the backpack’s capacity by 5 liters. Numerous pockets and storage compartments make this backpack a great choice for an organized trip.

It includes two hip-belt pockets, for small, frequent-use items, 2 lid pockets, a hydration bladder sleeve, a front pocket and two mesh bottle pouches. Furthermore, the Mountaintop backpack also comes complete with a high-visibility rain cover to protect your belongings from wet weather.

The Mountaintop Internal Frame backpack is a competitively priced backpack that would be a good way to try out an overnight hike or trip into the wilderness, before investing in a higher-priced model.

#9 WASING 55L Internal Frame Backpack Review

WASING 55L Internal Frame Backpack

Pros:

Low price – great for those on a budget or just starting out
Water-resistant with included rain cover
Plenty of pockets and attachment points
Lightweight

Cons:

Less comfortable than some of the more expensive backpacks in this category
Questionable long-term durability

WASING 55L Internal Frame Backpack Features Summary:

Material: Water-resistant rip-stop polyester
Bottom compartment accessible with zippered access
Internal Zippered Divider
Molded Foam Back Panel With Airflow Channels
Single Contoured Aluminum Frame Bar Can Be Adjusted To Fit The Shape Of Your Back
Dimensions: (H)* (W)* (L) (27.1*12.5*9.8 inches)
Weight: 2.6 pounds
Multiple color options available

Best Uses: Hiking, backpacking, camping, travelling, general use

The Wasing 55L Internal Frame backpack is one of the cheapest available backpacks suitable for extended hiking trips, making it a good choice for those starting out or on a strict budget. Its 55-liter capacity provides more than enough space for a hiking trip lasting several nights, while its light weight of 3 lbs means you’ll have a lighter load. It also comes in a range of bright colors.

This backpack is made from heavy duty, rip-stop polyester, which is extremely durable. Like many others in this range, it comes complete with a water-resistant rain cover, multiple pockets and compartments and a hydration bladder sleeve.

The Wasing 55L backpack also comes with ice axe attachments and two mesh bottle pouches. Its single contoured aluminum frame bar can be adjusted as necessary, while its foam covered, molded back panel features airflow channels to help keep you cool and dry. A handy hip belt pocket keeps frequently-used items to hand, while the sternum strap helps to stabilize your load and comes with a useful emergency whistle buckle.

This backpack is an extremely economical option and has many positive reviews. It would be a great backpack for casual, light hiking or someone who is just starting out and doesn’t want to invest in a more expensive model right away. This backpack has everything you need to get started and offers an affordable way to see if hiking is for you.

Conclusion

So as you can see, there are a wide variety of backpacking packs for men in 2018 available on the market today, and one to suit all levels of budget. It's worth mentioning again, that in out opinion, you get what you pay for, so if you're a serious backpacker, it's advisable to get one of the pricier options, simply because they are of a better quality.

It's all about what you need though, and one of the budget options might do the job just fine. It is fundamentally important to know your requirements for what you need your pack for, before you purchase.

We really hope you found this article useful, if you did please like and share it around your networks 🙂 We will be updating it as newer and better packs come online. With technology ever advancing, new and improved packs are coming out onto the market regularly.

Backpack Buying Guide

Whether you’re hiking out into the wilderness for just a day, or going for a week-long expedition, your backpack is one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll need. So, it makes sense to take time to pick one that’s comfortable, durable and has all of the features that will make your trip a memorable one, for all of the right reasons. Let’s take a look at some of the main considerations to take into account when purchasing a hiking backpack in our Backpack Buying Guide.

Capacity

Your ideal pack size will depend upon several factors, how long your trip is going to be, the time of year and the weight and bulk of your hiking gear.

If you’re planning short day hikes in mild conditions, then a 30-liter daypack is going to have plenty of capacity for all of your needs. Longer trips of several nights or more are going to be better served by a 60-70 liter backpack, to ensure that there will plenty of space to pack your tent, sleeping kit, food and water and any other essentials.

It’s worth bearing in mind that if you prefer to keep things ultralight and aren’t making long trips into the wilderness on a regular basis, you may get more use out of a smaller backpack. With today’s compact, ultra-light gear, there are plenty of hikers out there who like to keep things light on short 1-3 day trips, especially on trails with more extreme terrain.

Other aspects to bear in mind when considering which capacity you need, are when you intend to be using it and where. Winter trips will, of course, require a lot more equipment and extra clothing layers for when you’re not moving. If you frequently hike at warmer times of year you may need to factor in extra capacity for more water and if you’re heading into bear country, a bear canister.

If you have recently upgraded several elements of your gear, or you’re contemplating your first multi-night trip, it can be useful to set out all of your kit, plan the essentials you’re going to need and to see how much space this is going to take up. If you’re having a hard time visualizing this, try packing it into a bag with a known capacity.

Bear in mind that if you have several bulky items you can run into difficulties as the capacity of a backpack will include any compartments, so you may struggle to comfortably fit in any less compact items. Also, be aware that strapping on any larger items, weather and terrain permitting, will leave you much more space, but can also destabilize your load. Generally speaking, its better to have all your kit inside your backpack, and utilizing dry bags is an excellent way to keep stuff dry inside.

Finally, remember that today’s backpacks are designed to be carried fully loaded in order to provide a maximum of comfort and weight bearing support. You should always use a backpack with the correct capacity for your needs, if it’s under or over-charged your load will not be balanced or stable and you’ll risk a fall. So, don’t be tempted to economize by getting a larger, one size-fits-all pack with the intention of half filling it for shorter trips.

Weight

Modern backpacks are much lighter than those used even in the not too distant past. Of course, everyone would like to have a lighter load where possible, however, unless you’re looking at a backpack that seems much heavier than similar ones in the same range, backpack weight is probably not going to play much of a deciding role in your purchase except for those who are into ultralight and light backpacking.

Ultralight backpacks typically have an empty weight of less than 2 lbs, with lightweight packs up to the 4 lbs mark and midweights coming in at around 5 lbs. However, if you’re looking to lighten your load, you should first think about upgrading your pack contents before focusing too much upon your backpack’s actual weight.

Replacing the essentials like your stove, tent and sleeping bag with new lightweight models and cutting back on any non-essential items will drastically reduce your load weight and really justify the pound or two weight saving in a lightweight backpack. Otherwise, focus more upon the capacity, features and fit. If it has everything you need and you’re not planning on going ultralight, then a pound or two difference in weight shouldn’t put you off.

Remember that lightweight packs have to make a saving in weight somewhere and this can sometimes compromise on comfort, reductions in padding on straps for example, or fewer features. In some cases, you may prefer a slightly heavier model depending on your trip and hiking style. Heavier packs are also known to be more durable, being made from thicker, more robust materials, again this may or may not be an issue for you, depending upon your budget, where you commonly hike, for how long and what your priorities are.

Material

Backpacks come in a range of different materials each with their own merits. Most backpacks are made from nylon or polyester, with many manufacturers choosing to use a combination of the two. Polyester fabrics such as XPAC are popular for being light and waterproof, whereas nylon, in particular, Codura, is used for its durability and strength.

A backpack might have a body made mainly from XPAC with a nylon-Codura bottom and edges for reinforcement, or a Codura backpack could have an XPAC laminate. In fact, XPAC is often applied as a laminate to other fabrics for waterproofing. Codura is available in different deniers which enable its weight and rigidity to be adjusted as needed.

Unless you have very specific needs, most modern backpacks will be made of material that has been tried and tested to provide the experience that you are looking for. If your trips tend to go deep into the backcountry you may prefer a fabric with a higher denier to ensure longevity and avoid rips, if you mainly stick to trails and more open areas you may prefer a slightly lighter material.

Most backpacks will offer some degree of waterproofing and the majority come with a fully waterproof cover for protection in downpours and extreme weather. The effectiveness of these are limited though, so as mentioned above, utilize dry bags inside your backpack to keep essentials dry.

Backpack material is an important consideration that the experts have spent time perfecting, so a good hiking backpack will do its job. It really comes down to a matter of personal preference and durability when opting for a more heavyweight or lightweight fabric.

Fit

A well-fitting backpack is essential to your comfort, thankfully with so many adjustable options on many packs today, it’s easy to make adaptations for an individual, fine-tuned fit.

Once you have found a backpack that you like the look of, check that your upper body length matches its recommended length range. Some backpacks may be available in different torso lengths. To find out your torso length you will need to measure from the base of your neck to the point of your spine that is level with the tops of your hip bones, known as the iliac crest. Make sure that you stand straight as you measure to ensure an accurate reading.

Once you have the correct size backpack, you will be able to adjust the suspension system, the hip belt and shoulder straps, load straps and sternum strap for a perfect fit depending upon your body size and load. You may wish to make adjustments throughout your trip as your load lightens, for optimum balance and comfort. Check out the video for some more information on fitting a backpack comfortably.

Features

To the uninitiated, backpacks seem to come with a bewildering array of features. There’s no shortage of great extras that will make your trips much more comfortable with less hassle. Here’s a list of some of the main features you should find on any decent hiking backpack.

Frame

If you’re looking for a hiking backpack for any longer than a day trip, we recommend getting one with an internal frame. This may add a little weight but will even your load out and help to transfer the pack’s weight to your hip area. Internal frame backs, as opposed to external frames, are much better in helping to balance the weight distribution across your body.

Pockets

Pockets are essential for storing items for easy on-the-go access, such as maps, mobile phones, water bottles (if you use them) and snacks. Their location and size vary vastly from one backpack to another, with a huge range of options, typically including hip belt pockets, side pockets, large stash pockets, waterproofed dry pockets and top lid pockets.

Some side pockets can be accessed without removing your pack, making them a popular and practical option, although when it comes down to pockets it’s a matter of personal preference.

Attachment Points

Attachment points are practical if you use trekking poles or ice axes and they can be found on most good backpacks. Adjustable straps are also useful at the bottom of the backpack to attach bulky items which may take up too much space inside. As mentioned above though, if possible, we recommend you try and keep everything inside your pack.

Hydration system sleeve

If you use a hydration system it’s worth noting where you’ll be storing it, especially if you plan to be using your backpack on long trips. An easy to access location will make refilling much easier and save you from having to unpack everything, if you come across a convenient, unplanned water source.

Extendible lid

Extendible lids allow you to fit in extra bulky items between the lid and the main compartment, this can be useful for sleeping pads or extra warm layers.

Waterproof cover

Most backpacks come with an extra waterproof cover for wet weather. Although your pack may be weather resistant, the majority will benefit from a waterproof cover in heavy downpours preventing leaking at the zippers and other possible points where water may enter. Again, always pack stuff you need to keep dry in dry bags inside your back, as while waterproof covers help, they aren’t 100% effective in very heavy rain.

Ventilated back panel

If you’re planning on making trips in warm weather a ventilated back panel will help you stay cooler and dry even with a heavy load. Most backpacks feature a comfort back panel, when this panel is covered with a mesh fabric, air can flow between your back and the panel for added comfort.

Price

As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. Higher quality backpacks, in terms of design, comfort and durability, are definitely at the higher end of the price scale. Spending more on a high-quality backpack will make your hiking trips more enjoyable, with more features, a lighter, more balanced design and longer-lasting materials. Higher-price end models do tend to last longer than cheaper ones so purchasing a cheap backpack can actually turn out to be a false economy if you end up needing to replace it.

For those who cannot or do not want to spend big bucks on a backpack, there are plenty of extremely competitively priced options out there. As more products hit the market, this tends to drive prices down and the upsurge in hiking popularity has created a more level price range with accessibly priced, quality items. Such products are ideal for those who are just starting out and may not be ready to fully invest in more expensive products.

Read online reviews, ask questions, get a good idea why one backpack costs so much more than another, if it doesn’t’ seem justifiable, then you may be better off going with the cheaper option. A great way to get yourself a good bargain if you’re not the type that likes to show off the latest and greatest, is to purchase slightly older models especially after new releases.

Sellers looking to reduce stocks will often try to offload older models, and in some cases, the upgraded model may not actually offer much more than a change of color and a few pockets difference. Do your homework, there are plenty of bargains to be made and with it being such an important piece of gear, it’s important to get the best quality backpack that you can.

Conclusion

There’s a lot to bear in mind when purchasing a backpack and it’s important to consider your options thoroughly before committing to a particular model. By breaking down this decision into a list of key considerations, as covered in our Backpack Buying Guide, you should be able to purchase with confidence, making a choice that meets your needs and desires.

Too often we’re swayed by eye-catching designs or the new must-haves, however, true quality stands the test of time and it’s worth reading through customer reviews and taking the time to fully consider all of the options available before deciding upon a firm favorite to journey with you out into the wilderness.

We hope you found this backpack buying guide useful, please like, share and comment if you did 🙂

How to Clean a Hiking Backpack

If you use a backpack for hiking, you will likely have come across the issue of what to do when the backpack needs cleaning. Unlike clothes such as socks and t-shirts, which are straightforward items to clean by simply putting through a washing machine cycle, backpacks are items where the process of cleaning them is not so well known.

In this article, we are going to explain how to clean a hiking backpack, give you tips on how to care for your backpack, and let you into one or two insider secrets on how to ensure that when you must wash your backpack in the washing machine, there are no disasters.

Prevention and Care

There’s an age-old saying that ‘prevention is better than the cure’, and although it is normally used in the context of health, it can apply to all manner of subjects, and in our case, hiking backpacks. While it is impossible to keep your backpack from never needing cleaned, caring for it properly will mean it needs cleaning less often and it will also prolong the life of your backpack.

Keeping The Interior Of Your Backpack Clean

Liquids are one of the most common reasons why a hiking backpack needs to be cleaned. These can be liquids inside the backpack or those which it encounters outside.

On the inside a common problem is drink bottles leaking, which is why you should always ensure that bottle lids and screw tops are closed tight before placing them in the backpack. A good tip is to wrap any liquid bottle in a sealable plastic bag, so if they do leak, any liquid will remain in there, rather than spilling all over the interior of the backpack.

Another way to prevent liquid containers from leaking is to pack your backpack properly and carefully. Any sharp or heavy objects should not be resting on the bottle as this could pierce a hole or burst it open. A good suggestion is to buy backpack liners or put your stuff in dry bags, and place them inside your backpack so if the worst happens, the main materials are protected if there is spillage.

Keeping The Exterior Of Your Backpack Clean

For the exterior, one of the primary problems is mold forming on an area where the backpack has been wet and not cleaned properly. First, you should always dry your backpack whenever it gets wet, and try not to leave it sitting on wet patches of grass, for example, for extended periods of time. Please note when we say let it dry, this means let your backpack dry naturally. Do NOT put it in the dryer, which will destroy it, and potentially ruin your dryer too.

One great tip to help prevent your backpack from getting soaked through is to spray it with a waterproof spray. This should help prevent the material of the backpack from getting wet or damp to some degree, by repelling any water.

Just as there are liners to protect the inside of the backpack, there is a low-cost solution to protect the outside too. These are backpack covers, which as the name suggests, fit over the backpack. With the backpack inside the cover, any moisture or liquid on the outside cannot dirty or wet the material.

Basic Cleaning

If you are hiking, and notice any dirt or mud on your backpack, you should clean it off immediately. You should carry a small, bristle brush which you can use to clean other items such as your hiking poles or boots.

When you get home, empty your backpack completely, and ensure you have emptied out all the side pockets and other zipped enclosures. You could turn the backpack inside out if it is flexible enough, but a better solution is to use your vacuum cleaner. It should be able to vacuum out all the little bits of dirt or grit which may be inside. These are what wear away the material and reduce the life of your backpack, so it is vital they are removed.

Read The Label

You should be aware of what material your backpack is made from, but if not, either check the sales information page for the product or look inside to see if you can find the washing instruction label. This will tell you what the materials are and more importantly how you can safely wash the backpack.

Just as it’s important that your clothes are washed in the correct way, and if machine washed, at the right temperature, your backpack needs the same care. Although your backpack may look and feel the same as another, there are lots of different materials used to make these products and what might be suitable for one backpack, could ruin another.

Handwashing Your backpack

If the washing label or instructions say you cannot put your backpack in the washing machine, then you will need to handwash it. First, ensure you have taken everything out of the backpack, especially the small pockets. Fill a basin or sink with warm water. Do not use hot water as this has the potential to make any colors run.

Use a light soap to make a lather, and do not use detergents or fabric softener as these can damage the materials. A soft brush can be used to get rid of some of the more stubborn marks or stains but do not rub too hard. Once you’ve finished cleaning, let the backpack drip dry naturally, and another reminder that you MUST NOT put it in the dryer.

Machine Washing Your Backpack

If the washing instructions say it is okay for the backpack to be cleaned in a washing machine, then follow those instructions carefully. Pay particular attention to the temperature it says you need to wash it at. If you choose too low, it won’t clean properly; if you make the water too hot, it could cause the colors to run.

A great tip is to place your backpack inside an old pillowcase and use a short piece of thread or string to tie it closed. This will prevent all the buckles and straps from making a noise as the backpack is spinning around inside the washing machine. It also makes sure that there is nothing that can cause any damage to any washing machine parts such as the agitator.

Conclusion

It is inevitable that your backpack is going to need to be cleaned at some point; however, you can help to limit the amount of cleaning required by protecting your backpack from spillages inside and waterproofing it on the outside. Always make sure you check the washing instructions for your backpack before placing it in water, and especially before using the washing machine to clean it.

What’s The Difference Between A Backpack And A Rucksack?

I was flicking through some gear sites yesterday and I noticed that some of them advertise 'rucksacks', not backpacks.

Now what made this interesting was that one leading brand, Berghaus, have several different backpack options but some of them are called rucksacks while others are given the title backpack.

This got me to wondering what is the difference between a backpack and a rucksack so I did a little investigation and thought I'd add up a short post on it.

Etymology

Now, that is a big word to start a paragraph on isn't it lol 🙂 but the first place to start was to look at the source of the words. From what I can find, Rucksack is derived from Germany. 'Rucken' meaning back in German and 'Sack' (meaning bag) obviously means a sack. So, a bag for your back effectively.

If we look at Backpack, well there isn't a whole lot of difference now is there, except it being in English, it is obviously a sack (pack), bag, for your back too. The word backpack seemed to originate in the US.

US and UK, are there differences?

I was curious as to if there were any differences and from what I can ascertain, in terms of how the words are used, not very much really. It seems that many people use the two terms interchangeably.

Broadly speaking, when looking at hiking gear providers in the US, the term backpack seems more commonly used. However, as mentioned in the comments below, it seems the US military may use the term rucksack quite a bit. I don't know anything about military equipment but it would make sense that they would need very functional backpacks / rucksacks.

I saw one mention that a rucksack is a mid sized pack used for multi day camping hikes of up to a week, and a backpack is different in terms of size and use in that it is bigger than a rucksack and is used for very long treks and trips into the wilderness, so for weeks to months. I couldn't find much to corroborate that though. On looking around, there seem to be equally large options, some referenced as a rucksack others as a backpack.

The UK also seems to lean towards the use of the term backpack as opposed to rucksack, however, in terms of hiking gear, it did seem that rucksack could be more commonly found than in the US.

Our Top Men's Backpack Pick: Osprey Atmos 65 AG

The Osprey Atmos 65 AG is a 65 liter is an excellent backpack that delivers outstanding ventilation and carrying comfort.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. It seems that in terms of backpacking or hiking, there isn't really a whole lot of difference in how people use the two terms backpack and rucksack. In the US, it seems that the term backpack may be more commonly used in terms of hiking gear. However, the term rucksack is also well known.

In the UK, it also seems it is a different word for the same thing. The only mention of a difference I came across in the UK was that a rucksack is a smaller version of a large backpack used for shorter hikes and backpacking trips. However, as mentioned, I couldn't really confirm that in any viable way so I won't take it as Gospel.

All in all, in seems that in terms of usage, many people use the terms backpack and rucksack interchangeably. When it comes to hiking gear, it also seems that the word backpack is more commonly used.

Now, I hope I have got this right and my research is correct. If not, please feel free to correct me in the comments below. I'd be interested to hear any thoughts.

Berghaus Verden 45+8 Backpack Review

Last year I got to climb Mont Blanc. It was an amazing experience and I had never taken on a challenge of that kind before.

As you can imagine a big part of that trip was preparation. While I needed to train to be sure I had the fitness to get to the top, there were a bunch of other things I needed to prepare for. As I was going high into the Alps, a key one was gear.

While I would hire some of the various things I would need when I got there, for example crampons, there were also a lot of bits and pieces I needed to get in advance. One key thing was a suitable backpack.

I did a lot of looking around but I ended up going with the Berghaus Verden 45+8. Berghaus are a very well known brand in the UK and Europe but they don’t seem to be as well established in the US just yet. I’ve noticed that none of the main retailers stock there stuff.

However, I do recall reading some place last year that Berghaus was planning a big move into the North American market so perhaps they’ll start showing up in more stores soon. I have a few hiking gear items from Berghaus and I am very happy with them.

So, today I wanted to take a closer look at this versatile backpack from Berghaus.

Summary

Cool Hiking Gear Rating: 5 stars out of 5

Check Price on amazon.com

Available Colors: Black / Grey

Look and Design

When I was out buying the backpack, I recall standing in the store looking at backpacks. I had asked the store assistant to single out the ones that would meet my size needs for my Mont Blanc trip which was that it needed to be between 45 and 55 liters.

I had about 4 backpacks in front of me and the Berghaus Verden really caught my eye. I’m not sure what exactly it was but it seemed to have a much more technical look about it than the others. If I was going to go to the highest point in the Alps, this backpack looked like it had the technical capability to do it.

Now, the other backpacks, not all, had most of the requirements I was looking for too, however, they didn’t look very technical. Now, I was about to head up into the Alps, wear crampons for the first time, get roped up, use snow shoes, etc. All of that is technical so I think subconsciously, I was looking for something that had a technical look to fit the bill.

As far as design goes, the Verden 45+8, has a sleek look built on an internal frame. The pack is designed to be very adaptable. Now, that of course wasn’t the only criteria in this category. A technical look and overall design was one thing but it needed the technical functionality to back that up which I’ll look at below.

Fit

The Verden 45+8 has a lot of adjustable options available on it. The first thing to look at here is that the height is adjustable across 4 settings, see below, small, medium, large and extra large. This is adjusted via a sliding back panel as part of a ‘BIOFIT System’. I was a little concerned when I first saw this, thinking it might be a bit weak but it seemed sturdy enough on closer inspection.

As you can see, the back panels are are all well padded for comfort and that combined with the BIOFIT system enables your back to stay well ventilated.

Once you have the desired fit on your back, you can then further adjust for comfort using the tension straps which are available on the top, side and base of the backpack.

Overall, I found it pretty easy to get a comfortable fit quite quickly and easily with just some quick manipulation of the BIOFIT system and the various straps so it is very easy to use in that regard, plus it also held under actual use with heavy weight which is important. Sometimes with extra weight, straps can come loose which is a pain.

Capacity, Storage and Weight

The capacity of this backpack comes in at 53 liters, (45 + 8 ). This means that the main compartment in the backpack has a capacity of 45 liters but that there is an additional 8 liters available in pocket space, the floating lid, etc.

The dimensions come in at 75 x 32 x 28 cm. I haven’t used this pack for more than a two night camping trip in my regular hiking environment but I think it should be fine for longer week long treks too. Longer than that, you probably need something bigger. If you do need more there is a Verden 65 + 10 version available.

A key part of any backpack is weight and the Verden 45 + 8 comes in at 2.050 kg.

If we look at storage there are a lot of features. First up the base of the internal compartment comes with a bivi divider which can be zipped closed. Useful if you have wet gear that you want to keep separately or if you want to ensure something doesn’t slide down inside your pack into the depths below.

There is a top lid pocket which is a good size as well as two expansion side pockets. Another handy feature on the pack is that the main compartment has zipped access from either side of the pack which is handy if you need to get something out of the main compartment without having to open up the top. There are also two water bottle mesh pockets at the side.

Finally, there is a draw cord bivi closure at the top of the pack to give you the opportunity to string the top of the main compartment tight before securing the top compartment in place.

Other Features

There are a lot of other nice features with the Verden 45+8. There’s a grab handle at the top for handy lifting, for example, say onto an airport conveyor belt.

The pack is fully compatible with a hydration system with a sleeve at the back of the inside of the back as well as all the required tube ports, etc. There are attachment points on the lid and the pack has walking pole, ice ax, snow shoe attachments.

Finally, there is a built in rain cover with is something that can be handy to have, although I rely mainly on dry bags to keep my stuff completely dry inside any backpack.

Rain Cover Out — Rain Cover out of it’s Compartment

Price

The pack is reasonably priced I feel for all the features available in it. Plus having used it, I have the benefit of having experienced it first hand so I am very happy with the quality and overall makeup and functionality of the pack.

Overall I think it’s fairly priced for the quality you get.

Pros:

Good adjustable fitting options, so should be able to get a good fit for most folks
Lots of outdoor specific features e.g. walking pole, ice ax attachment loops, etc.
Hydration bladder holder works well
Rain cover included

Cons:

Hip belt pocket would be nice to have

Features:

BIOFIT back-system
Height adjustable, removable chest strap
Top tension straps
Raincover
Grab handle
Base compartment with bivi divider
Top lid pocket
Hydration system compatible
Two expansion side pockets
Zipped entrance to main compartment
Zipped front pocket
Side compression straps
Base compression straps
Attachment points on lid
Draw cord bivi closure
Synch straps on hip belt
Walking pole attachment

Conclusion

Overall, I was very pleased with my purchase of the Berghaus Verden 45+8 backpack. I think it is a great pack for a multi day hike but probably not best suited for an extensive backpacking trip, for that you would need to get the bigger 65 + 10 model.

It has all the capabilities, features and functions I would look for in a good backpack and it fits very comfortably. I have used it on my trip to Mont Blanc and on a few multi day camping hikes and I have been very pleased with it. Price wise, I think it’s reasonable for the quality you get.

As I mentioned at the start, I don’t think Berghaus have made many inroads as yet into the standard big North American gear retailers but I would be surprised if we didn’t start seeing their gear popping up in stores in the coming months and years. I like their gear and have been happy with the quality of several items I have bought from them. We’ll see though I suppose.

Have you used the Verden 45+8 Backpack? I’d love to hear about your experience with it in the comments below.

The North Face Matthes Crest 72 Backpack Review

I first came across The North Face Matthes Crest 72 about a year ago when I was starting to look about for a backpack for my trip to Mont Blanc. As it turned out it was a bit too big for my needs but I still liked the look of it.

It seemed to be pretty new to the scene then and I forgot about it. However, I came across it again while doing an unrelated search online and thought I’d add a closer look up onto the site.

Summary

Our Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

Price: Check price

Available Colors: Summit Gold / Asphalt Gray

Review

The North Face Matthes Crest 72 Pack is an Athlete Pick from The North Face. It’s a relatively recent addition to The North Face family and it looks like it means business.

Designed to be used all year round, as its The North Face, you know it has the quality, durability and reliability to meet all your backpacking needs.

At 72 liters, it’s perfect for backpacking trips and longer treks where you need plenty of room to carry all your gear and kit.

This state-of-the-art fully featured pack is designed with an Opti-Fit™ X suspension system for a dialed fit that improves large-load control without sacrificing ventilation. This means your weight is spread appropriately across your body and the ventilation functionality should prevent heat spots from forming.

There is an Integrated X Radial™ frame which is supportive while encouraging freedom of movement across technical terrain. This is an internal frame pack. If you’re not sure what an internal frame pack is, click here.

The pack has a shoulder harness which easily slides up or down to match the user’s back length and locks in place. To create a snug-fitting hipbelt, flip down the lumbar pad and adjust the cams located at the base of the pack. This more or less means you can adapt it to fit your body as required and is a must these days on any serious backpack.

Pros

5 points of contact from the pack on the shoulders, iliac crest of the hips and lumbar support maximizes ventilation.
Customizable fit for a range of body sizes.
Water resistant material used throughout pack body.
Removable top lid and easy access to pack via top loader and front zip.
Hydration sleeve inside the pack
Multiple gear attachment points.
At 72Liters this pack has plenty of space.
Modern state-of-the-art look.
Men and women specific versions available.

Cons

This pack is a bit pricey, but you know you’re getting quality so I reluctantly put it as a con.

Specs (at a glance)

Proprietary Opti-Fit™ X technology provides unparalleled fit and ventilation
Next-gen X Radial™ frame is light and strong yet provides superior carry
Top loader with an additional panel zip opening for quick access to gear
Opti-Fit™ adjustment system ensures perfect fit
Interior pocket and gear-attachment points
Removable top lid
Ski carry loops
Fabric: 210HT geo ripstop nylon, 630D ballistics nylon
Avg Weight: S/M: 5 lbs 11 oz (2580 g) / L/XL: 5 lbs 13 oz (2637 g)
Volume: 4393 in3 (72 liters) – note: other sizes are available

Other Points

Guarantee: Lifetime Warranty

Conclusion

This is a very technical pack for the serious backpacker or trekker. If you’re planning a major trip, especially into harsher conditions then this could we worth adding to your review list.

It’s a big pack at 72 Liters volume, there’s an 85 liter option available too, so you should be able to stay away for long periods at a time with the amount of gear you should be able to get into this backpack.

There are some nice features and from what I can tell, there seems have been a lot of research and effort put into getting a design that is balanced and comfortable for a large backpack.

Have you ever used The North Face Matthes Crest 72 Backpack? I’d love to hear your thoughts on it in the comments below.

How To Weight A Backpack For Training Purposes

Today I wanted to take a look at how best to weight a backpack for training for a bigger trek or hiking trip. As I have alluded to several times over the last month or two on here, I am planning to undertake my biggest hiking challenge, to date, this year in June. That challenge is to climb Mont Blanc in the Alps, the highest mountain in Western Europe.

One of the key pieces of kit I will need for that trip is of course a good backpack and my search for a suitable backpack is ongoing. (I've pretty much picked the backpack I will use and will likely purchase it this week).

Anyway, once I have my backpack, it occurred to me that I can't just show up to the Alps with my new backpack filled up with gear and head for the summit! I will not be used to carrying gear for multiple days on my back while ascending a very large mountain like Mont Blanc. Therefore, I will need to 'pack' my pack, so to speak, in advance and get used to carrying a similar weight of gear on my back.

This was fine and I figured that once I got my backpack of choice, I would weight it up to take on my normal weekly hikes. That should get me up to some reasonable level of being used to hiking with the heavier weight of gear on my back when doing the real thing.

However, the next thing that occurred to me was, what should I pack it with to add weight!?

Our Top Men's Backpack Pick: Osprey Atmos 65 AG

The Osprey Atmos 65 AG is a 65 liter is an excellent backpack that delivers outstanding ventilation and carrying comfort.

Weights and Bricks?

Now, you may be thinking, don't be silly, just get some heavy bricks or a dumbbell or two and fire them in. Well, when you think about it, they probably wouldn't be very good things to put in a backpack. They are heavy but over quite a small surface area. If anything, this could very well damage a backpack as it would have too much pressure on one smaller part of it. It could very easily rip a hole open or warp the backpack in some way!

After some consideration, I thought I would consult one or two of my hiking friends who have been on many backpacking expeditions before to get some tips. Here's what they recommended to use when trying to weight your backpack for training purposes.

What to Use to 'Weight' Your Pack

Bottled Water

This was top of the list. A few big bottles of water can easily fit into pack and laid across the bottom. This should spread the weight relatively evenly across the pack. Another great advantage of water is that it's easy to offload if things get too hard to carry. Just open the bottles up and pour the water out!

Old Books

Another easy and convenient thing to use is to put a few big books into your backpack. This will add some significant weight to the pack but you probably need to add a fair few of them in.

Be sure to use books you don't care for too much as they will likely get a bit rustled up in your backpack while out on the trail with you!

Magazines

Similar to books, although they do have the extra advantage of being more disposable. That is, you're probably less concerned with what happens to some old magazines of yours than part of your book collection 😉

OK, I was happy that I had several easy options for weighting my pack but then another question formed in my head!?

How Much Weight Should I Add to the Backpack?

The approach I have taken to this is very logical 🙂 and I hope sensible! In short, I am going to pack the backpack up when I get it with all the gear I think I will need to have in it for my trip.

Now, unfortunately some of the gear I don't actually own and I will have to hire it when I get to the Alps. For those pieces, I will need to do some research and make approximations. The company I am going with have provided a gear checklist so this should be relatively easy to do with a bit of research.

When I have all of that, I should be in a position to give a pretty good estimate of the weight of the backpack I will need to carry for the 6 days on my trip. Then I can weight up accordingly for my normal weekly hikes in preparation!

Conclusion

I was in two minds about whether this should be a post or not as, like most people, when you first think about weighting a pack for training purposes, you assume it's very straightforward i.e. just put heavy stuff in your backpack.

However, after consideration there were a few things I wasn't sure about and so thought it best to ask around to see what may be the best approach. I'm happy that I have found the best approach for this which is to use bottled water, large bottles, to an approximate weight of the actual gear I will carry in the backpack for the trip. A few of my regular hiking outings with that before June should get me in good shape for the real thing 😉

As an aside, It's worth noting that there is a whole method and science to how you 'pack a backpack' too. That is, what items you should put to the bottom first and so on. This makes a lot of sense and is something important to learn for any trip you will be undertaking with a backpack.

Check out this guide on what I take for a 2 to 3 day backpacking trip, that goes into the details. In short summary, pack what you will need soonest, say rain gear, at the top of your backpack and what you won't need soon, say a sleeping bag, at the bottom.

I think everyone needs to develop their own optimum solution or system to this but these basic guidelines help simplify the process. I'll be sure to add up a post on that at some point and link to it from here, it may be helpful to folks new to backpacking / wild camping.

Finally, if you're looking for a backpack or a day pack, you can start your search right here. Check out some nice day packs here, these are perfect for a day hike on the trail. If you need something more substantial and in the vein of this post, to carry kit for several days, check out our top pick backpack in the red box above.

Have you ever weighted a pack for training purposes? Any other suggestions on how best to do it? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below!

Gregory Backpack – The Gregory Z65 Backpack Internal Frame Review

Today I want to review a Gregory Backpack, the Z65 Internal Frame. I mentioned in a recent post that I need to get a new backpack for my trip to Mont Blanc in June so the hunt has begun for a suitable pack for the trip. I have already decided that an internal frame as opposed to an external frame pack is the best way to go for this particular trip.

Summary

Our Rating: 4 stars out of 5

Available Colors: Ember Orange (Pictured), Navy Blue

Where to Buy: Check Price on Amazon

Review

The first thing I want to comment on about this pack, is that it’s ideal for extended multi-day hikes. With a capacity of 65 liters, it is a multi day backpack. Good for a few days wild camping where you need to carry a fair bit of camping kit with you. With that in mind, it is not really suitable as a day pack, just too big in my opinion. This is something to factor in if the majority of your hiking is day hiking. It may not be a great idea to buy a pack that is best suited for extended trips.

The next thing to comment on that many folks complimented this pack on, was it’s airflow ability. Internal frames can be known to cause your back to get very sweaty so to read that this one has a good airflow via the JetStream LTS construction, one that works I hasten to add, is really good. The pack also has moisture-wicking mesh and breathable foam throughout.

Next, we move on to storage. One of the cons of this pack I feel is that it could have more pockets. However that is really down to personal preference. There is ample space in the main compartment and the pack comes in three sizes, small: 3539 cu.in (58 Liters), Medium: 3906 (64 Liters) cu.in and Large: 4272 cu.in (70 Liters).

The main compartment is accessed by an all-access front zip which means its handy to get into the pack. This is very useful to get at stuff further down in your pack after it has been packed up. Otherwise, you need to take stuff out to get at the contents below.

The Gregory Z65 backpack also has quick access waist-belt pockets which are good for things you need to keep on hand. To conclude on the storage capabilities, the Z65 also has dual hydration ports and sleeve so you can easily carry a hydration pack.

The zippers throughout the pack are welded and water resistant to prevent rain drip through them so your gear stays dry. I highly recommend always putting the contents inside your pack into either bin liners or dry bags, to help keep you kit dry. If you’re hiking in winter type conditions, or climbing a mountain like Mont Blanc, you can take advantage of the ice axe loops on the Gregory Z65. There are additional attachment options available on the pack as well.

Moving on, a key function I want in a backpack is good weight distribution so I can carry all my gear on the trail as comfortably as possible. The Gregory Z65 has a lightweight framesheet made with a hollow aluminum stay. This design enables easy support of heavier loads while keeping you as comfortable as possible as you move. The weight is further catered for by the exterior compression straps that ease the weight load on your back. The dual-density lumbar foam pad transfers weight from your back to your hips, and the adjustable waist belt has a plastic HDPE stiffener for a better carry.

The pack has an auto-fit harness system which can be adjusted to fit comfortably. These generally speaking work quite well in my experience. The harness is also specially designed to eliminate hot spots which can develop in many packs. Finally, It’s worth mentioning here that this pack is designed to be used by both men and women.

Pros:

Good suspension – secure, stable and comfortable
Allows good airflow to your back (A common problem with internal frames)
Easy to load and good capacity

Cons:

Could have more pockets available

Specs (at a glance):

Pack material: 210 denier double-diamond ripstop nylon and nylon twill
Frame type: Internal
Frame material: HDPE framesheet and aluminum stays
Hydration compatible: Yes
Pack loading: Top and front
Recommended use: Backpacking Multiday
Volume liters: 58 to 70 liters
S:
Dimensions: 28x12x11″
Pack capacity: 58 Liters (3539 cu.in.)
Weight: 3 lb. 15 oz.
Fits torsos: 16-18″
Fits torsos: Small: 16-17-½” Medium: 18-19-½” Large: 20-21-½””
M:
Dimensions: 30x12x11″
Pack capacity: 64 liters (3906 cu.in.)
Weight: 4 lb. 3 oz.
Fits torsos: 18-20″
L:
Dimensions: 32x12x11″
Pack capacity: 70 Liters (4272 cu.in.)
Weight: 4 lb. 7 oz.
Fits torsos: 20-22″
Pack style: Backpacks
Pack gender: Men,Women

Conclusion

The Gregory z65 Backpack is a popular pack and ticks many of the boxes I need for my trip to Mont Blanc. The key attractions for me for this are good air ventilation to the back when carrying, as well as good suspension and weight distribution allowing easier weight carry. The easy access zipper into the rucksack from the front is also a nice feature (Getting into your gear can be a real pain in some backpacks if it’s packed at the bottom!).

Overall, this pack looks and acts the part and has a a lot of positive customer feedback to support it!

Have you used Gregory backpacks before? How did you find them? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.

Why do Zippers Get Stuck?

Common Zipper Problems

Ways to Unstick a Stuck Backpack Zipper

Snagged Zippers

Trapped Dirt

Other Scenarios

Replacing and Mending Broken Zippers

How to Avoid Future Zipper Problems

Conclusion

#1 Osprey Atmos AG 65

Our Top Backpacking Pack for Men: The Osprey Atmoss AG 65

Where to Start When Choosing a Backpack

#2 Gregory Baltoro 65 Review

Our No. 2 Pick:The Gregory Baltoro 65

#3 Osprey Volt 60 Review

The Bronze Medal Goes To: Osprey Volt 60 Review

#4 Osprey Xenith 75 Review

Another Top Osprey Pick: Osprey Xenith 75 Review

#5 The Arc'teryx Bora AR 63 Backpack Review

Our Top Arc'teryx Pick: Arc'teryx Bora AR 63

Best Budget Backpacking Backpacks for Men

#6 Teton Sports Scout 3400 Review

Our Top Budget Backpack: Teton Sports Scout 3400

#7 AmazonBasics Internal Frame Hiking Backpack Review

No. 2 In Our Budget Picks: AmazonBasics Internal Frame

#8 Mountaintop 55L/65L Internal Frame Backpack Review

Mountaintop Internal Frame Backpack

#9 WASING 55L Internal Frame Backpack Review

WASING 55L Internal Frame Backpack

Conclusion

Capacity

Weight

Material

Fit

Features

Frame

Pockets

Attachment Points

Hydration system sleeve

Extendible lid

Waterproof cover

Ventilated back panel

Price

Conclusion

Prevention and Care

Keeping The Interior Of Your Backpack Clean

Keeping The Exterior Of Your Backpack Clean

Basic Cleaning

Read The Label

Handwashing Your backpack

Machine Washing Your Backpack

Conclusion

Etymology

US and UK, are there differences?

Our Top Men's Backpack Pick: Osprey Atmos 65 AG

Conclusion

Summary

Look and Design

Fit

Capacity, Storage and Weight

Other Features

Price

Conclusion

Summary

Review

Conclusion

Our Top Men's Backpack Pick: Osprey Atmos 65 AG

Weights and Bricks?

Bottled Water

Old Books

Magazines

How Much Weight Should I Add to the Backpack?

Conclusion

Summary

Review

Conclusion

Our Top Backpacking Pack for Men:
The Osprey Atmoss AG 65

Our No. 2 Pick:
The Gregory Baltoro 65

The Bronze Medal Goes To:
Osprey Volt 60 Review

Another Top Osprey Pick:
Osprey Xenith 75 Review

Our Top Arc'teryx Pick:
Arc'teryx Bora AR 63

Our Top Budget Backpack:
Teton Sports Scout 3400

No. 2 In Our Budget Picks:
AmazonBasics Internal Frame