Looking for the best backpack for the Camino de Santiago?
I highly recommend you pick a backpack that was actually designed for hiking. Some backpacks might be the right size or quality but that doesn’t mean they are suitable for walking long distances – especially in warm weather. For instance, a backpack without any type of ventilation system in warm weather is sure to result in a sweaty and uncomfortable walk.
Just so you know, I have three other backpacks that I have used on the Camino (Osprey Exos, Osprey Farpoint & Airtrek 35). I’ve used them all without issues but if I was to choose one and only one backpack – it would be the one in this post.
I say this for the following reasons:
- Feedback from other pilgrims I met on the Camino that had this backpack.
- I’ve tried it on – both in store and on the Camino.
- It’s very similar to one of my own backpacks but with a couple of nicer/better features.
- The specifications are perfect for the camino in my opinion.
- Osprey make great gear!
Fair enough? Let’s take a look at the backpack.
The Best Backpack for the Camino de Santiago
Most of the weight in a backpack lies on the hips and shoulders and this is why padded straps are needed. The back frame should be rigid and many newer backpacks have a ventilated system that allows air to move in behind the frame.
You want a light backpack for the Camino and my personal opinion is the smaller the better. Think this bag will be on your back all day so only carry what is really necessary and try to have quick drying clothes that you can wash and wear overnight. As long as you trim down your Camino packing list, I recommend a backpack between 30L and 40L.
But do your own research to make sure this size is big enough for your packing list.
Let’s take a look at what I believe to be the best backpack for the Camino.
Osprey Talon 33 & Osprey Tempest 34
The Osprey Talon 33 has a close contact back system but the design makes it very breathable. The padded shoulder straps and hip belt bring comfort and support and there are two mesh pockets on the hip belt for small items. A stow-and-go system allows you to attach hiking poles and it’s also designed to store a water bladder system if you take one.
The top pocket is great for small items (maybe valuables), while the twin pockets on the sides are ideal for water bottles and the mesh on the back can store things you might need to access quickly – I use it for my sun cream/rain-jacket.
Osprey have also developed the Tempest 34 which is basically the same backpack designed for women. It shares all the same features with the Talon 33 but the big difference is that the back length is slightly shorter and the shoulders straps and hip belts are anatomically shaped for the female form to make sure that same comfort is there.
Best backpack for the Camino de Santiago for men – Osprey Talon 33
Best backpack for the Camino de Santiago for women – Osprey Tempest 34
PS. If you cannot afford the price tag of the above, maybe check out the Airtrek 35 which I used on the Camino last year.
Thank you for reading and as always, please make sure to do your own research instead of taking my word for it!