We Tested 7 Best Affordable Backpacking Backpacks India 2024 That Won’t Break the Bank

7 Best Affordable Backpacking Backpacks tested from Trawoc, Tripole, Impulse, Mount Track, F Gear, and more to serve you best on the trail without busting your budget.

Related Topic – Tested Best Ultralight Backpacks in India

Whether it’s a quick overnight trip or an extended thru-hike, success hinges on choosing the right backpack. It should not only accommodate all your gear but also ensure comfort, sparing you from constant fidgeting or thoughts about your pack.

In the realm of backpacking, a quality pack stands out as the cornerstone gear. Yet, navigating the selection process can be a blend of oversimplification, overcomplication, and overpricing. The finest budget-friendly backpacks should seamlessly merge comfort, functionality, and alignment with your specific hiking style.

However, for a tailored match to your distinct requirements, a deeper dive into our collection of excellent yet affordable backpacks is well worth the effort.

The Best Affordable Backpacking Backpacks in India

• Best Overall Affordable Backpacking Backpack: TriPole Walker 65
• Best Balance of Comfort and Lightweight: Trawoc 60
• Best for Minimalist Design: Mount Track Altitude 50
• Best for Carrying Heavy Loads: Impulse Rucksack 95
• Best Plus-Size Backpacking Backpack: Hiker’s Way 75
• Best Lightweight Affordable Backpack: Trunkit Adventure Series 55
• Best of the Rest: F Gear Military Marpat WL 50

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Best Overall Affordable Backpacking Backpack
TriPole Walker 65

The TriPole Walker 65 stands out as the best affordable backpacking backpack. With its remarkably affordable price tag, we approached it with modest expectations.

While boasting a classic top-loading design, the TriPole Walker 65 surprises with its large front zippered access point, granting easy entry to your gear without the hassle of unpacking entirely.

Its robust materials and convenient on-the-go adjustability make it a stalwart companion for heavy loads.

What sets TriPole apart is its fusion of traditional backpack features with ingenious innovations.

Offering quick access to essential gear, these packs sport a single-zippered hip belt pocket, stretch-mesh water bottle pockets, and a convenient front “shove-it” pocket.

Customizability is key, with options to fine-tune the fit for various body shapes and sizes, including an adjustable torso length and TriPole’s Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt and shoulder straps. 

Noteworthy additions like an internal hydration bladder sleeve, dual ice axe loops, and a versatile compression system further enhance functionality.

Opting for the 65L version presents a compact profile and slightly reduced weight, ideal for long weekend excursions, while still providing ample space for most users. With thoughtful packing, they’re also suitable for extended trips. 

Despite being lighter than many competitors, TriPole packs exude reliability, offering stability and balance on the trail.

If durability and dependability are paramount, the TriPole Walker 65 emerges as a compelling choice destined to endure for years to come.

Check our full review on the TriPole Walker 65 Backpack.

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Best Balance of Comfort and Lightweight
Trawoc 60

If you’re seeking to shed weight from your backpack without breaking the bank, the Trawoc 60 might just be your perfect match. 

Its simplistic yet effective design ensures you hit the trails bright and early, while its sensible pocket layout prevents gear from getting lost in a maze of compartments. 

The internal frame provides a comfortable, no-frills experience, securely anchoring your load to your back.

This best affordable backpacking backpack is one of the top contenders here, offering everything you need for a successful trip. 

Its array of pockets, including spacious side water bottle compartments, plush shoulder straps and hip belts, a zippered lid with additional storage, and a convenient front-access sleeping bag compartment, make organization a breeze. Crafted from durable recycled nylon, it’s built to endure the rigors of daily trail use.

However, while we appreciate the generous pocket space on the Trawoc 60 lid, its fixed attachment to the pack limits adjustability, particularly when accommodating larger loads. 

Although it’s a minor inconvenience, having adjustable buckles on the lid would enhance its versatility, ensuring a balanced fit even when the main compartment is packed to capacity.

Nonetheless, we found that even when fully loaded, we could still manage to fit the lid snugly over the top.

In conclusion, the Trawoc 60 excels as a budget-friendly backpacking pack, offering remarkable adjustability and durability for its price point.

Check our full review of the TRAWOC 60 Rucksack.

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Best for Minimalist Design
Mount Track Altitude 50

The Mount Track Altitude 50 epitomizes versatility, offering a lightweight design that effortlessly shoulders hefty loads.

In a market where comfort under substantial weight is a rarity, this pack shines with its blend of classic elements and innovative touches.

Weighing slightly less than its counterparts of similar capacity, the Mount Track Altitude 50 excels in every aspect, with its suspension system being the standout feature. It ensures stability and support, no matter the load, thanks to its exceptional design.

Ventilation is essential for long treks; this pack delivers. Internal frame with airflow channels keeps your back cool on demanding hikes. Among packs boasting breathable back panels, the Mount Track Altitude 50 truly stands out.

While the mesh-free shoulder and hip straps may induce some sweatiness, they offer durability where it counts, utilizing robust materials in high-wear areas and lighter fabric elsewhere to maintain a balance between strength and weight.

Lightweight yet durable ROBIC fabric. Perfect for heavy loads without bulkiness. Ideal for backpackers prioritizing resilience and practicality.

Check our full review of the Mount Track Altitude 50.

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Best for Carrying Heavy Loads
Impulse Rucksack 95

Impulse Rucksack 95 is one the best affordable backpacking backpacks for carrying heavy loads.

Renowned for comfort and features. Enhanced with a new suspension system and eco-friendly materials.

The Deva model sets itself apart by seamlessly accommodating heavy loads while ensuring wearer comfort.

Boasting firm yet plush padding, an ergonomically contoured shape, meticulous gear organization, and superior ventilation facilitated by a full mesh back panel, the Impulse Rucksack 95 emerges as a standout selection.

However, its feature-rich design comes at a cost—literally in weight, tipping the scales at well over 4 pounds. This might deter those in search of a lighter, more agile alternative. 

Nonetheless, for traversing extensive distances burdened with substantial gear, the Impulse Rucksack 95 remains unparalleled in its preparedness.

My firsthand experience with the Impulse Rucksack 95 has Proven endurance on extended backpacking trips from firsthand experience. 

For a comprehensive comparison with other backpacking options, explore our in-depth articles on the top contenders in the field.

Check our full review of the Impulse Rucksack 95.

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Best Plus-Size Backpacking Backpack
Hiker’s Way 75

In our examination of the best affordable backpacking backpacks, the Hiker’s Way 75 emerges as a contender with a performance that may not match the standards set by its peers in the same category. 

Despite this, its price tag, coming in at less than half the cost of its competitors in our review and considerably cheaper than many other backpacks on the market, positions it as a viable choice for thrifty backpackers.

If your priority lies in securing a practical bag at the lowest feasible expense, then the Hiker’s Way 75 merits consideration.

Its most notable attribute is undeniably its exceptional affordability. However, during our rigorous testing regimen, we discovered that this affordability comes at the price of comfort and user convenience when measured against alternative packs under evaluation.

Constructed from rougher materials and lacking in supportive suspension, it also features pockets that prove cumbersome to access, resulting in a performance slightly below par overall.

Nevertheless, on shorter overnight journeys, the Hiker’s Way 75 managed to sufficiently fulfill its role, underscoring its commendable affordability despite these inherent limitations.

Check our full review of the Hiker’s Way 75.

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Best Lightweight Affordable Backpack
Trunkit Adventure Series 55

Introducing the Trunkit Adventure Series 55, crowned with our prestigious Ultralight Enthusiast’s best affordable backpacking backpacks! 

Weighing in at a mere 299 grams yet boasting an ample 55-liter capacity, it outperforms its lightweight counterparts with ease. 

The innovative carbon frame demonstrates surprising prowess in handling heavier loads, while the array of external storage options offers unparalleled versatility.

What truly sets this pack apart is its hybrid Cuben fiber fabric, which not only maintains an ultra-light profile but also guarantees waterproof reliability. 

For seasoned enthusiasts seeking to shed those extra ounces, the Trunkit Adventure Series 55 is an indispensable addition to their gear collection.

Tailored specifically for women, this pack embodies everything one could desire in a women’s backpacking pack, all at an affordable price point. 

With exceptional comfort, intuitive usability, and a range of sizes to ensure a perfect fit, it stands out.

The plushly padded back panel, featuring an air channel for ventilation, ensures a cool and comfortable hike. 

Additionally, the cushioned shoulder straps and hip belt provide firm support, ensuring the load feels secure yet comfortable during the journey.

With a single load lifter buckle controlling both straps, weight distribution is always optimized, effectively dispersing the load across the hips, shoulders, and back. 

Designed for seasoned ultralight backpackers with both experience and budgetary considerations in mind, this pack is a game-changer. 

If your gear rarely exceeds the mid to low 20s in weight, embracing the Trunkit Adventure Series 55 can significantly reduce the overall load on your back, enhancing your backpacking experience.

Check our full review of the Trunkit Adventure Series 55.

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Best of the Rest
F Gear Military Marpat WL 50

The F Gear Military Marpat WL 50 is another choice among the best affordable backpacking backpack options. With its remarkably low price tag, our initial expectations were modest. 

Yet, it managed to exceed our expectations compared to other similarly-priced alternatives.

Priced at less than half of some of its competitors, this backpack serves as an ideal entry point for those curious about backpacking or for occasional adventurers.

Consider this backpack as a tasting menu, allowing you to discern your preferences and dislikes in features.

While it fulfills the role of a budget backpack admirably, there are a few caveats to consider. 

Throughout our testing, we noticed a slight shortfall in comfort, particularly evident when carrying heavier loads, resulting in some discomfort in the shoulders.

Additionally, its bulkiness, owing to the larger buckles and padding, may pose a minor inconvenience. 

Weighing over 700 grams, it stands as one of the lightest options we evaluated. Nevertheless, its robust build instills confidence in durability, and it manages to handle loads adequately.

The F Gear proves itself as a suitable first backpack for overnight excursions, emphasizing value over flawless performance. We recommend it to anyone prioritizing affordability and practicality.

Check our full review of the F Gear Military Marpat WL 50.

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Backpacking Backpack Comparison Table

Pack	Price	Weight	Material	Capacity	Access	Pockets
TriPole Walker 65	₹2,899	1800 g	polyester	55, 65 L	Top, Bottom	6 exterior
Trawoc 60	₹1,895	1300 g	polyester	60 L	Top	9 exterior
Mount Track 50	₹1,499	900 g	Nylon	50 L	Top	6 exterior
Impulse 95	₹2,222	1100 g	Polyester	95 L	Top	5 exterior
Hiker’s Way 75	₹1,299	1100 g	Nylon	75 L	Top	7 exterior
Trunkit 55	₹599	299 g	Polyester	55 L	Top	4 exterior
F Gear 50	₹1,865	700 g	Polyester	50 L	Top	7 exterior

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Why Trust Us

The Outdoor Gear team: Diverse group of backpacking enthusiasts with experience ranging from weekend adventurers to seasoned thru-hikers, amassed over years on the trails.

Over two years, we rigorously tested budget-friendly backpacking packs, examining over 20 models, with nearly 15 undergoing thorough field trials.

Leading this comprehensive review are Tanmoy Misra and Vidya Raj, who have combined their expertise to spearhead this endeavor. 

Vidya Raj, a seasoned staff writer, has accumulated numerous miles hauling hefty backpacking loads across varied terrains. Vidya is Experienced in camping and hiking, she values a comfortable and reliable pack for long journeys into remote areas.

Tanmoy Misra, with extensive thru-hiking experience on India’s long trails like Amarnath, Serolsar Lake, and the Himalayan Trail, brings valuable expertise from rigorous backpack testing.

Experiencing mid-hike pack failures firsthand, he stresses the importance of choosing a durable pack tailored to your needs.

In our recommendations for the best affordable backpacking backpacks, we emphasize real-world performance above flashy features. Constantly monitoring the market, we evaluate potential game-changers. 

We stay vigilant in the evolving market, assessing potential game-changers. Our checklist features the best affordable backpacking backpacks.

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Analysis and Results

• Value
• Comfort
• Ease of Use
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio
• Adjustability

We used different ways to see how good these best affordable backpacking backpacks are. The one that’s best for you depends on your requirements.

We looked at each backpack carefully, using different ways to see how good they are for backpacking. We paid attention to what makes backpacking easier and better. Now, we’ll explain each way we looked at them, and why it matters.

Value

When curating the best affordable backpacking backpacks, we prioritized value above all else, ensuring that each backpack included offers exceptional quality at an affordable price point. 

While there exists a spectrum of value within this category, a higher price typically correlates with superior quality, enhanced features, and overall design refinement. 

Best affordable backpacking backpacks exclusively focus on backpacks priced under 2500 rupees, so you won’t find the latest cutting-edge options here.

Instead, the featured packs boast tried-and-tested designs that deliver reliable performance.

All the packs showcased here offer commendable value, as befitting the criteria for the best affordable backpacking backpacks. 

However, the TriPole Walker 65, The Impulse Rucksack 95, and the TRAWOC 60 stand out for their exceptional balance between affordability and feature-rich designs, making them among the highest-value options available. 

On the other hand, the Hiker’s Way 75 presents an attractive price point coupled with practical usability. 

While it may not be the top choice for seasoned hikers or frequent adventurers, it delivers commendable functionality for newcomers to backpacking or those embarking on occasional, lighter trips.

Comfort

A poorly fitting backpack can quickly turn what should be an enjoyable wilderness excursion into a painful ordeal, plaguing you with discomfort in your neck, back, and shoulders. 

To assess comfort, we delved into several key facets. Initially, we scrutinized the efficacy of the suspension system in evenly distributing the pack’s weight.

Subsequently, we subjected each pack to rigorous testing, assessing its feel on our backs, shoulders, and hips. 

We meticulously examined the design of the shoulder straps, the snugness of the waist belt, and the ergonomic positioning of the back panel against our bodies.

Additionally, we scrutinized the quality of padding and materials, recognizing their crucial contribution to overall comfort. 

While most packs incorporate an internal aluminum frame, each exhibits unique characteristics, resulting in varying levels of comfort when borne upon the hips and torso. 

Packs that generate pressure points prove especially uncomfortable under load, while those adept at transferring weight to the hips alleviate strain on the shoulders, ensuring a more pleasurable experience. 

To gauge this, we subjected each pack to weight loads ranging from 20 to 45 pounds, evaluating its suspension’s capacity to handle different trip durations comfortably. 

Moreover, we assessed how the design of shoulder straps and waist belts influenced the pack’s conformity to the body.

Factors such as the quantity and quality of padding, as well as the tactile comfort of materials against the skin, were also carefully considered in our evaluations.

Among the best affordable backpacking backpacks scrutinized in our testing, the TriPole Walker 65 and TRAWOC 60 distinguished themselves by delivering exceptionally smooth rides. 

Notably, both packs feature meticulously crafted back panel designs that adeptly suspend the pack, preventing direct contact with the wearer’s back. 

This ingenious design not only promotes airflow but also mitigates the discomfort of back sweat, thus reducing the risk of chafing during extended use.

Ease of Use

When evaluating a pack’s user-friendliness, we delve into its design intricacies. How effortless is it to pack? Can you readily access your gear? Are there additional loops to accommodate extra equipment? 

These are among the inquiries guiding our assessment of a pack’s user-friendliness.

Each brand and model boasts unique attributes. A primary focus lies in the efficiency of packing and unpacking gear. 

The accessibility of pockets and a well-conceived layout significantly elevate a pack’s rating in this regard.

We remain vigilant for distinctive features that enhance the backpacking experience, prioritizing convenience and functionality. 

Our initial scrutiny often centers on the pocket configuration. While many packs adhere to a standard layout comprising a main pouch, lid, rear pocket, and water bottle pockets, the effectiveness of this setup varies. 

Packs like the TriPole Walker 65L, Impulse Rucksack 95, and The TRAWOC 60 present similar pocket arrangements, covering all essential compartments for streamlined organization and trail efficiency.

Weight-to-Volume Ratio

The significance of weight in backpack selection cannot be overstated, as a heavier pack translates to more pounds burdening your back. Typically, heavier packs are better equipped to handle substantial loads. 

Conversely, lighter packs may falter, exhibiting sag and diminished performance under heavy loads. However, weight alone does not provide the full picture. 

We meticulously compared pack weight to volume, considering the utility offered by each model’s weight. Notably, the Mount Track Altitude 50 and F Gear Military Marpat WL 50 emerged as standout examples of lightweight packs, boasting impressive volumes that accentuate their low weights. 

These models, along with the Trunkit Adventure Series 55, exhibit the most favorable weight-to-volume ratios among the packs scrutinized. Conversely, the TriPole Walker 65L and TRAWOC 60L represent the heavier end of the spectrum, characterized by the highest weight-to-volume ratios in our assessment lineup.

Adjustability

When evaluating adjustability, we considered the pack’s suitability for different users. Packs often offer adjustable back panels for varying torso lengths. 

Additionally, adjustments can be made to hip belts, shoulder straps, and sternum straps to customize the fit. However, some packs excel in accommodating a wider range of body sizes than others.

Most packs we tested come in a single torso length intended to fit all users, making them highly adaptable. This is particularly beneficial for young hikers who may experience changes in pack size as they grow. 

Even for adult backpackers, an easily adjustable pack allows for precise fitting or shared use among multiple hikers.

Among the best affordable backpacking backpacks assessed, the TriPole Walker 65 demonstrated exceptional adjustability. 

It has a simple way to adjust the torso length to fit your body, which is easier than some other backpacks. 

It fits many different hip sizes. For those needing even more adjustability, TriPole offers a hip belt extender, further enhancing the adaptability of this pack.

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Buying Advice

• Capacity
• Load-Out Weight and Size
• Durability
• Packing Preferences
• Water Protection

Capacity

Determining the right pack size isn’t set in stone; it depends on various factors like the trip duration, season, and planned activities. However, one crucial consideration is matching your pack’s capacity to your gear. 

If you have bulkier or dated equipment that doesn’t compress well, opt for a larger pack to accommodate it. Conversely, if your gear is lightweight and modern, you have more size flexibility.

For short trips lasting one to three nights—the most common scenario—a pack in the 50 to 70 liter range is popular. The TriPole Walker 65/TRAWOC 60, for example, falls into this category. 

With such packs, keeping packed weight low and essentials prioritized is essential, especially with the use of compressible gear. 

However, with 60 liters or more, there’s room for some additional items, which is advantageous for parents hiking with children.

Within the 50 to 70 liter range, you can adjust based on your gear preferences, ranging from minimalist setups to bulkier loads, ensuring your pack suits your specific needs and comfort level.

Overnight and/or ultralight gear: 35 to 55 liters
Long weekend (2-3 nights): 50 to 70 liters
Extended trips (over 3 days): 60+ liters

Load-Out Weight and Size

The best affordable backpacking backpacks typically range from 55 to 70 liters in volume, yet each pack has its own weight-carrying capabilities. Minimalist frames, for instance, may struggle with loads exceeding 30 to 40 pounds, leading to discomfort. 

On the other hand, larger and sturdier frames might not distribute weight effectively if the pack isn’t adequately filled—unless the extra space encourages overpacking. 

The key is finding a pack that matches the load you’re carrying without being overstuffed, ensuring optimal comfort and functionality.

Fit

Three features set the best affordable backpacking backpacks:

• Hip belt
• Frame
• Load lifter straps 

The frame serves as the backbone of a backpack, providing structural support essential for carrying the weight during your trek. 

However, it’s crucial that the majority of this weight, about 70 to 80 percent, is borne by your hips rather than your shoulders.

To achieve this weight distribution, backpacks are equipped with load-lifter straps designed to extend around 45 degrees from the top of the frame to the shoulder straps. 

When tightened, these straps draw the pack closer to your body, transferring the load upwards and offloading it from your shoulders onto the hip belt.

For this mechanism to function optimally, it’s imperative that the backpack is properly fitted to the user’s torso length and hip size. 

While most packs offer some degree of adjustability to accommodate different body types, a truly great pack is one that fits you perfectly, ensuring maximum comfort and efficiency on the trail.

Durability

Backpacking backpacks endure a considerable amount of wear and tear, subjected to rough treatment like brushing against sharp branches, being thrown on the ground, or serving as impromptu seats.

However, not all packs are equally resilient, with some offering far superior durability than others.

A key indicator of a pack’s durability is the fabric denier, which measures the thickness of the material. Across our selection, backpacks range from 100-denier to 600-denier nylon, with reinforcements reaching up to 1000-denier. 

Typically, packs are reinforced at critical areas such as the base, front, lid, and hipbelt pockets to withstand common points of wear.

While thicker fabrics provide greater durability, they also contribute to added weight. Consequently, many lightweight and ultralight backpacks compromise some durability for a thinner build. 

To strike a balance, premium ultralight packs often incorporate Dyneema, renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, albeit at a higher cost.

While considering fabric weight and composition is important, thin fabrics need not deter you unless you subject your gear to extreme conditions or heavy use, such as bushwhacking or professional guiding. 

Packs like the TRAWOC 60 (100D & 210D) and TriPole Walker 65 (100D & 450D) have pleasantly surprised us with their durability, making them suitable choices for most users.

Packing Preferences

Are you inclined to tuck your gear into built-in pockets or prefer the simplicity of lining the main compartment with a waterproof bag and stuffing everything inside? 

Perhaps, like myself, you find joy in organizing gear into stuff sacks and packing cubes, accessing them easily through front-access zippers.

An effective pack should prioritize placing the heaviest items in the middle, nearest your body, with lighter items positioned above and below. 

However, there’s ample opportunity for various packing approaches within these guidelines. A quality pack is one that aligns with your preferred packing method, accommodating your individual style and needs seamlessly.

Water Protection

The items we carry in our backpacks, such as cameras, phones, and down sleeping bags, are often susceptible to moisture, making water protection a top priority. 

Fortunately, many backpacks offer decent water resistance through materials like hard-face nylon and a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating. However, it’s important to note that prolonged exposure to rainfall can eventually penetrate these fabrics.

For those seeking heightened waterproofing, there are waterproof backpack options available, including those constructed with Dyneema. 

However, if you don’t have a waterproof backpack (which is often the case), it’s wise to take additional precautions to safeguard your gear against moisture. Some packs come equipped with built-in waterproof covers that can be stowed away when not in use. 

Alternatively, you can protect your items from the inside by lining the pack body with a waterproof bag or utilizing waterproof stuff sacks or dry bags for added peace of mind.

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FAQs