When it comes to choosing a hiking backpack, the options can feel overwhelming. But ask any serious hiker which brand they trust and you'll hear the same name come up again and again — Osprey. Known for their exceptional fit, innovative suspension systems, and bulletproof build quality, Osprey consistently produces some of the most good hiking backpacks available anywhere in the world. At PAST Outdoors, we're proud to stock the full Osprey range, and in this guide we break down our top picks for every kind of adventure.

Why Osprey make good hiking backpacks and some of the best on the market

Good hiking backpacks for day walks — the Osprey Talon 22L

Not every adventure requires a massive pack. For day hikes, trail runs, and single-day adventures where you need to move fast and travel light, the Osprey Talon 22L Men's Daypack is one of the great hiking backpacks for the job. At just 22 litres, it carries everything you need for a day on the trail without weighing you down — hydration compatible, smartly organised, and incredibly comfortable on the back. If you're looking for a nimble, reliable pack for shorter adventures, the Talon 22L is hard to beat.

For more advice on choosing the right daypack, check out our guide on daypacks and hiking backpack bags in Australia — it covers everything you need to know before you buy.

Great hiking backpacks for multi-day adventures — the Osprey Atmos AG 65

When the adventure stretches beyond a single day, you need a pack that can go the distance. The Osprey Atmos AG 65 Men's Hiking Pack is widely regarded as one of the top trekking backpacks on the planet — and after spending time with it on the trail, we couldn't agree more. The Anti-Gravity suspension system distributes weight so effectively that even a fully loaded pack feels remarkably comfortable over long distances. Spacious, intelligently organised, and built to last, the Atmos AG 65 is the pack we recommend most often to hikers tackling multi-day routes across Australia and beyond.

Want to know what to fill it with? Our guide on Dave packs for a multi-day hike has everything you need to get it right.

Top trekking backpacks for serious expeditions — the Osprey Aether Plus 85

For those taking on serious long-distance routes, extended expeditions, or anything that demands maximum carrying capacity, the Osprey Aether Plus 85 Men's Hiking Backpack is in a league of its own. At 85 litres, it's one of the most capable top trekking backpacks available — built to carry heavy loads in comfort over days and weeks on the trail. The customisable fit system, generous organisation, and premium materials make it the go-to choice for expedition hikers who refuse to compromise.

Looking for even more Osprey options? Our full guide on Osprey Sirrus and Stratos backpacks is worth a read for those exploring the broader range.

Dave Parker, our CEO on a recent multi-day hike in April 2026 to Cantebury New Zealand. Photograph by Clancy Roberts.

Why buy your hiking backpack at PAST Outdoors?

Honestly? Because we've carried these packs ourselves. At PAST Outdoors, we're not just selling gear — we're a team of passionate hikers, campers, and adventurers who have put Osprey through its paces on real trails in real conditions. As a family-owned Australian business based in Helensburgh NSW, every recommendation we make comes from genuine experience and a deep love of the outdoors. Our customers know this — which is why we've built a community of over 1,800 five-star reviewers across more than 40 countries who keep coming back to us season after season. When you shop with us, you're not just buying a pack. You're buying the confidence of knowing you've got the right one. 🎒🏔️