The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking – With 3 Great Backpack Alternatives for Every Hiker

The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking
The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking

When it comes to outdoor clothing and equipment, few brands are as well-known or respected as LL Bean. They have been making superior goods for over a century, and their backpacks are no different. LL Bean has a backpack that will work for you, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just getting started.

This article will be a detailed look at the seven best hiking backpacks sold by LL Bean. Our selection criteria included longevity, comfort, space, and overall price. With this guide, you’ll be able to compare and contrast the various features of various backpacks and make a well-informed purchase for your next hiking companion.

LL Bean has a wide selection of backpacks for day hikes and extended treks of any length. Read on to learn how to choose the best LL Bean backpack for your next hike, whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or just starting out.

Table of Contents

A Short History of LL Bean – The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking

When people think of outdoor clothing and equipment, their minds automatically go to LL Bean. The company was founded by Leon Leonwood Bean in 1912, when he was selling his first pair of waterproof boots to local Maine hunters and fishermen. The boots’ rubber bottoms and leather uppers made them a hit with consumers.

Through the years, LL Bean has added clothing, outdoor equipment, and hunting supplies to its catalog. In the 1930s, LL Bean released its first mail-order catalog, making its products available to customers nationwide.

When the United States entered World War II, LL Bean shifted its focus to making military equipment like tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks. Only a short time after the war ended, the company went back to making outdoor gear for regular people.

Since more people were getting into outdoor activities like hiking and camping in the 1960s and 1970s, LL Bean’s popularity skyrocketed. In 1967, the company expanded beyond its home state of Maine by opening a store in Freeport. More than fifty LL Bean retail locations are now in the United States.

LL Bean has always been dedicated to meeting the needs of outdoor enthusiasts with high-quality products. LL Bean’s legacy has inspired generations of explorers worldwide, from its early days as a boot manufacturer to its present day as a leading retailer of outdoor gear and apparel.

The History of LL Bean Backpacks – The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking

Backpacks from LL Bean are of the same high quality as the rest of LL Bean’s outdoor equipment. Since the company’s inception in the 1960s, backpacking and camping have become increasingly popular activities. The earliest backpacks were simple bags with a few straps and little room inside.

Padded shoulder straps, multiple compartments, and adjustable waist belts were just a few of the new features that LL Bean introduced to its backpacks in the 1970s and 1980s, when the popularity of outdoor activities was at an all-time high. The company’s first internal-enjoyable,frame backpack, which offered a more comfortable fit and better weight distribution, was released in 1982 and completely changed the backpacking industry.

Over the years, LL Bean introduced numerous groundbreaking new styles and fabrics. In the early 1990s, the company pioneered waterproof backpacks made from Gore-Tex fabric and included hydration systems.

LL Bean now sells a variety of backpacks designed for hikers of varying experience levels. Each type of backpack, from daypacks to multi-day expedition packs, is built to last and to be as comfortable as possible for the user. Many of these packs have dedicated spaces for items like tents, sleeping bags, and water reservoirs to ensure the hiker stays hydrated.

Since its inception, LL Bean has been dedicated to meeting the demands of outdoor enthusiasts everywhere with high-quality backpacks. It’s no surprise that LL Bean is still a go-to brand for outdoor equipment, thanks to its dedication to innovation and meticulous attention to detail.

The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked – The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking

Whether you’re going on a day hike or a multi-day expedition into the wilderness, LL Bean has a pack to suit your needs. But, with so many options available, how do you know which one is best for you?

We’ll rank the top ten LL Bean hiking backpacks based on storage capacity, comfort, and overall value. You can find a backpack on this list that will make your next outdoor excursion more enjoyable regardless of your hiking experience.

1. The LL Bean Continental Rucksack – The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked

The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked
The LL Bean Continental Rucksack

The LL Bean Continental Rucksack is a traditional backpack that has long been a favorite of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. This pack has a timeless look that will never go out of style, as it is made of durable canvas with leather accents. But it’s not just about looks; the Continental Rucksack is highly functional and well-constructed.

The main compartment of this backpack is one of its most notable features. It can easily hold all the gear you need for a day hike or even an overnight trip, with a volume of 1,343 cubic inches (22 liters). The compartment’s interior is simple, with no unnecessary pockets or dividers to get in the way. This makes packing and organizing your gear a breeze.

The Continental Rucksack has several exterior pockets in addition to the main compartment. These include two large side pockets, ideal for water bottles or other items you want to keep close at hand. There’s also a zippered front pocket for storing smaller items like your phone or wallet.

The comfortable straps are another great feature of this backpack. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your body. They’re also attached to the pack at multiple points, distributing weight evenly and reducing pressure points on your shoulders.

Leather accents on the bottom of the Continental Rucksack add an extra layer of durability and protection against wear and tear. And if you ever need to clean your backpack after a particularly muddy hike, just wipe it down with a damp cloth.

Overall, I recommend the LL Bean Continental Rucksack to anyone looking for a high-quality hiking backpack that combines style and functionality. This pack will serve you well on all your outdoor adventures, thanks to its spacious main compartment, comfortable straps, and durable construction.

You can check out the LL Bean Continental Rucksack here on their website.

2. The LL Bean Stowaway Day Pack – The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked

The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked
The LL Bean Stowaway Day Pack

The LL Bean Stowaway Day Pack is a lightweight and versatile backpack that is ideal for various outdoor activities. With a weight of only 14 ounces, this pack is light and easy to carry on the trail.

The compact size of the Stowaway Day Pack is one of its distinguishing features. The entire backpack can be stuffed into its front pocket when not in use, making it easy to store and transport. But be aware of its small size; when fully expanded, this pack has a storage capacity of 1,098 cubic inches (18 liters), more than enough space for all your essentials on a day hike.

The Stowaway Day Pack’s main compartment is simple, with no unnecessary pockets or dividers. This makes it simple to pack and organize your gear in whatever manner suits you best. There’s also a zippered front pocket for storing smaller items like your phone or wallet.

Regarding backpacks, comfort is essential, and the Stowaway Day Pack does not disappoint in this regard. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your body. A sternum strap is also included to help distribute weight evenly across your chest and reduce pressure points on your shoulders.

The durability of this backpack is another outstanding feature. It’s made of ripstop nylon fabric, which resists tears and abrasions and will last many hikes. If something goes wrong, LL Bean offers a lifetime guarantee on all its products.

Overall, I would recommend the LL Bean Stowaway Day Pack to anyone looking for a lightweight and versatile backpack with great storage capacity and durability. This pack is sure to become your go-to choice for all of your outdoor adventures thanks to its compact size, comfortable straps, and high-quality construction.

You can check out the LL Bean Stowaway Day Pack here on their website.

3. The LL Bean Mountain Classic Bigelow Day Pack – The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked

The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked
The LL Bean Mountain Classic Bigelow Day Pack

The LL Bean Mountain Classic Bigelow Day Pack is a traditional and rugged backpack ideal for day hikes and outdoor adventures. This pack has enough space for all of your essentials, with a storage capacity of 1,220 cubic inches (20 liters).

The Mountain Classic Bigelow Day Pack’s durable and water-resistant construction is one of its standout features. The pack is constructed of tough nylon fabric that resists tears and abrasions, making it ideal for rough outdoor use. It also has a water-resistant coating to keep your gear dry in wet weather.

The Mountain Classic Bigelow Day Pack is designed with one main compartment and two front pockets. The main compartment is accessible via the top or a front zipper, allowing you to access items in the middle of the pack without having to unpack everything else. There’s also a front zipper pocket for storing small items like snacks or sunglasses.

The padded and adjustable shoulder straps on this pack provide excellent support and comfort, even when carrying heavy loads. There’s also a sternum strap that can be adjusted up or down to suit your needs.

When it comes to outdoor gear, durability is always important, and the Mountain Classic Bigelow Day Pack does not disappoint in this regard. It’s made to withstand a variety of adventures, whether you’re hiking through rough terrain or navigating city streets. In the event that something does go wrong, LL Bean offers a lifetime guarantee on all of their products.

Overall, I would recommend the LL Bean Mountain Classic Bigelow Day Pack to anyone looking for a simple yet durable backpack ideal for day hikes or outdoor adventures. This pack is sure to become an essential part of your outdoor gear collection for years to come, thanks to its sturdy construction, ample storage space, and comfortable design.

You can check out the LL Bean Mountain Classic Bigelow Day Pack here on their website.

4. The LL Bean Ridge Runner Pack (26L) – The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked

The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked
The LL Bean Ridge Runner Pack (26L)

The LL Bean Ridge Runner Pack (26L) is a versatile and durable backpack, ideal for day hikes or urban exploration. This pack has plenty of storage space with a storage capacity of 1,587 cubic inches (26 liters).

The Ridge Runner Pack’s comfortable and supportive suspension system is one of its standout features. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, as you’d expect from a hiking pack, but the back panel is what really sets this one apart. It’s made of ventilated mesh that circulates air between your back and the pack, keeping you cool and dry even on hot days. A hip belt is also included to help distribute weight evenly across your body.

The Ridge Runner Pack has numerous pockets and compartments for storing your belongings. The main compartment is accessible via the top or a front zipper, allowing you to access items in the middle of the pack without having to unpack everything else. There’s also a zippered front pocket, two side pockets for water bottles or other small items, and an internal hydration sleeve that can fit most hydration systems.

When it comes to outdoor gear, durability is always important, and the Ridge Runner Pack does not disappoint in this regard. It’s made of tough ripstop nylon fabric that resists tears and abrasions, so you can expect it to last for a long time. In the event that something does go wrong, LL Bean offers a lifetime guarantee on all of their products.

Overall, I would recommend the LL Bean Ridge Runner Pack (26L) to anyone looking for a versatile, long-lasting backpack. This pack is sure to become your go-to choice for all of your day hikes or urban adventures, thanks to its comfortable suspension system, ample storage space, and durable construction.

You can check out the LL Bean Ridge Runner Pack (26L) here on their website.

5. The LL Bean Continental Weekender – The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked

The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked
The LL Bean Continental Weekender

The LL Bean Continental Weekender is a stylish and functional travel bag, ideal for weekend trips or short trips. This bag has a classic appearance with modern features that make it both functional and fashionable.

The Continental Weekender’s spacious interior is one of its most notable features. The main compartment can accommodate all of your essentials, such as clothing, toiletries, and other travel gear. There are also several smaller pockets on the inside and outside of the bag for storing items such as your passport, phone, or wallet.

The Continental Weekender’s exterior is made of tough canvas that resists tears and abrasions. It also has leather accents for a classic look. The bag has two sturdy handles for easy carrying, as well as an adjustable shoulder strap for wearing it over your shoulder or across your body.

Another outstanding feature of this bag is its adaptability. It’s the ideal size for weekend getaways or short trips, but it’s also small enough to fly as a carry-on. And because it’s made of tough materials, you can expect it to last for a long time.

The Continental Weekender lacks wheels and a telescoping handle, which are common features of larger travel bags. If you’re traveling long distances, you’ll need to carry it by hand or wear it over your shoulder.

Overall, I would recommend the LL Bean Continental Weekender to anyone looking for a stylish and functional travel bag ideal for weekend getaways or short trips. This bag is sure to become an essential part of your travel gear collection for years to come, thanks to its spacious interior, durable construction, and versatile design.

You can check out the LL Bean Continental Weekender here on their website.

6. The LL Bean Maine Warden Day Pack – The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked

The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked
The LL Bean Maine Warden Day Pack

The LL Bean Maine Warden Day Pack is a versatile and long-lasting backpack ideal for day hikes, outdoor adventures, and everyday use. This pack has a storage capacity of 1,525 cubic inches (25 liters) and plenty of room for all of your essentials.

The rugged construction of the Maine Warden Day Pack is one of its most notable features. It’s made of tough nylon fabric that resists tears and abrasions, so you can expect it to last for a long time. The pack also features leather accents for a classic look.

Even with heavy loads, the back panel and shoulder straps are padded and ventilated for comfort. The sternum strap aids in the distribution of weight across your body, which is especially important when hiking or carrying heavier items. There’s also a waist belt to keep the pack stable while you’re moving.

The Maine Warden Day Pack has numerous pockets and compartments for storing your belongings. The main compartment is accessible via the top or a front zipper, allowing you to access items in the middle of the pack without having to unpack everything else. There’s also a zippered front pocket, two side pockets for water bottles or other small items, and an internal hydration sleeve that can fit most hydration systems.

Another outstanding feature of this pack is its adaptability. It’s ideal for day hikes or outdoor adventures, but it’s also functional as a commuter bag or school backpack.

Overall, I would recommend the LL Bean Maine Warden Day Pack to anyone looking for a long-lasting and versatile backpack. This pack is sure to become your go-to choice for all your outdoor adventures or daily needs, thanks to its comfortable suspension system, ample storage space, and rugged construction.

You can check out the LL Bean Maine Warden Day Pack here on their website.

7. The LL Bean Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack – The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked

The Best LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking Ranked
The LL Bean Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack

The LL Bean Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack is a high-quality backpack ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a dependable and water-resistant option. This pack is built to withstand the harshest conditions, making it an excellent choice for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

The waterproof construction of the Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack is one of its most notable features. The main compartment is made of heavy-duty PVC-coated nylon that keeps water out even during the most torrential downpours. All zippers are also waterproof, preventing leaks and keeping your gear dry.

The pack has a storage capacity of 25 liters, so it has plenty of room for all of your essentials. The main compartment is large enough to hold larger items such as clothes or camping equipment, while smaller pockets on the front and sides can hold smaller items such as snacks or a phone.

For comfort during extended wear, the back panel and shoulder straps are padded and ventilated. The sternum strap distributes weight evenly across your body, while the waist belt keeps the pack stable while you’re moving.

The pack’s durability is another outstanding feature. It’s made of tough materials that can withstand rough handling and abrasions, so you can expect it to last for a long time.

The Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack has several useful features in addition to its waterproof construction and durable design. There’s an internal hydration sleeve, for example, that can fit most hydration systems, allowing you to stay hydrated on long hikes or camping trips. There is also a built-in rain cover that can be quickly deployed to protect your gear in the event of unexpected rain.

Overall, I would strongly recommend the LL Bean Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack to anyone looking for a dependable and water-resistant backpack for their outdoor adventures. This pack is sure to become an essential part of your outdoor gear collection with its rugged construction, ample storage space, comfortable suspension system, and extra features like an internal hydration sleeve and built-in rain cover.

Check out the LL Bean Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack here on their website.

3 Backpack Alternatives from LL Bean – The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking

Our top 7 LL Bean hiking backpacks are great, but these alternatives are just as capable and much more affordable. These packs can be used for anything from a day trip to a weeklong camping excursion. Read on to learn about some great alternatives from LL Bean, whether you’re trying to save money or you just enjoy trying new things.

1. The LL Bean Guide Lumbar Pack – 3 Backpack Alternatives from LL Bean

3 Backpack Alternatives from LL Bean
The LL Bean Guide Lumbar Pack

The LL Bean Guide Lumbar Pack is a versatile and long-lasting backpack ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. This pack is built to withstand the harshest conditions, making it an excellent choice for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

The Guide Lumbar Pack’s durable construction is one of its most notable features. The main compartment is made of tough PVC-coated nylon that can withstand abrasions and rough handling. All zippers are also waterproof, preventing leaks and keeping your gear dry.

The pack has a storage capacity of 12 liters, so it has plenty of room for all of your essentials. The main compartment is large enough to hold larger items such as clothes or camping equipment, while smaller pockets on the front and sides can hold smaller items such as snacks or a phone.

For comfort during extended wear, the back panel and shoulder straps are padded and ventilated. The sternum strap distributes weight evenly across your body, while the waist belt keeps the pack stable while you’re moving.

Another outstanding feature of this pack is its adaptability. It can be worn as a standard backpack or converted into a lumbar pack for extra support when carrying heavier loads. Furthermore, the daisy chain loops on the outside of the pack allow you to attach additional gear for easy access.

The Guide Lumbar Pack has several other useful features in addition to its durable construction and versatile design. There’s an internal hydration sleeve, for example, that can fit most hydration systems, allowing you to stay hydrated on long hikes or camping trips.

Overall, I would recommend the LL Bean Guide Lumbar Pack to anyone looking for a versatile and durable outdoor backpack. This pack is sure to become an essential part of your outdoor gear collection due to its tough construction, comfortable suspension system, and additional features.

You can check out the LL Bean Guide Lumbar Pack here on their website.

2. The LL Bean Stowaway Sling Pack – 3 Backpack Alternatives from LL Bean

3 Backpack Alternatives from LL Bean
The LL Bean Stowaway Sling Pack

The LL Bean Stowaway Sling Pack is a lightweight and versatile backpack designed for everyday use. This pack is ideal for commuters, students, or anyone who requires a compact and convenient way to transport their essentials.

The compact size of the Stowaway Sling Pack is one of its distinguishing features. It’s only 10″H x 7″W x 3″D, so it’s small enough to wear on your back or across your chest without feeling bulky or cumbersome. Despite its small size, it has an 8-liter storage capacity, which provides enough space for all of your daily necessities.

The pack is made of a strong polyester fabric that can withstand repeated use and wear and tear. The main compartment has a water-resistant zipper that keeps your belongings dry in the event of a spill or rain.

The back panel and shoulder strap are padded for comfort while wearing them for long periods of time. The strap can be easily adjusted to fit any body type and worn on either shoulder, depending on your preference.

Another outstanding feature of this pack is its adaptability. It has several pockets and compartments to keep your belongings organized and within easy reach. The front pocket features an internal organizer with slots for pens, keys, and other small items, while the main compartment has plenty of room for larger items such as books or a tablet.

Overall, the LL Bean Stowaway Sling Pack is a great option for anyone looking for a small and convenient pack for everyday use. This pack provides everything you need to stay organized on the go with its durable construction, comfortable design, and ample storage space. This pack is sure to become one of your favorite accessories, whether you’re commuting to work or school or running errands around town.

You can check out the LL Bean Stowaway Sling Pack here on their website.

3. The LL Bean Hunter’s Tote Bag – 3 Backpack Alternatives from LL Bean

3 Backpack Alternatives from LL Bean
The LL Bean Hunter’s Tote Bag

The LL Bean Hunter’s Tote Bag is an excellent choice for hikers who require a dependable and long-lasting bag to transport their gear. This tote bag is made of heavy-duty cotton canvas that can withstand abrasions and rough handling, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking.

One of the tote bag’s standout features is its spacious main compartment, which has plenty of room for all of your hiking essentials. You can easily fit in items like extra clothing, food, water bottles, first-aid kits, and other essential trail gear. The top zipper closure keeps your belongings safe and secure during your hike.

The Hunter’s Tote Bag also has several pockets and compartments to keep your gear organized and accessible. The exterior pocket on one side is ideal for storing small items such as energy bars or sunscreen, while the interior pocket on the other side can accommodate larger items such as a map or compass.

The strong leather handles make it easy to transport this tote bag on your hikes. If you prefer a hands-free option, you can carry it by hand or over your shoulder. Furthermore, the bag has an adjustable strap on the back that allows you to attach it to your backpack for added convenience.

Another outstanding feature of this tote bag is its adaptability. It’s not just for hiking; it can also be used for other outdoor activities. You can, for example, take it on camping trips or use it as a beach bag during summer vacations.

Overall, I would recommend the LL Bean Hunter’s Tote Bag to hikers who want a dependable and versatile way to transport their gear. This tote bag is sure to become an essential part of your hiking gear collection thanks to its tough construction, spacious main compartment, additional pockets and compartments, and convenient carrying options.

You can check out the LL Bean Hunter’s Tote Bag here on their website.

Conclusion – The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking

The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking
The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking

To sum up, hikers of all skill levels can find the ideal pack at LL Bean. There is an LL Bean pack for every kind of adventure, from day hikes to extended travels. Here, we’ve compiled a list of the seven best hiking backpacks from LL Bean and offered three alternatives that any hiker should consider.

LL Bean has what you need, whether it’s a small, lightweight pack or a large, roomy backpack. Every one of their backpacks is built to last with tough materials and equipped with conveniences like padded straps, lots of pockets, and a place to stash a water bottle.

We’ve also included some fantastic alternatives to the recommended backpack if you’re on a tighter budget or just want to try out different brands before settling.

Hikers who care about their comfort and enjoyment on the trail should not skimp on purchasing a high-quality backpack. The right backpack will allow you to carry all your belongings with ease while also allowing you to stay hydrated and comfortable.

We hope you’ve found this article useful in your search for the ideal hiking backpack. Happy hiking!

Frequently Asked Questions – The Top 7 LL Bean Backpacks for Hiking

1. How Big of a Pack Do I Need for a Day Trip? – FAQs

A backpack that can hold 20–30 liters is perfect for a day hike.

2. Is the Ability to Carry a Water Bottle Included With All LL Bean Backpacks? – FAQs

Unfortunately, not ALL LL Bean bags are made to accommodate water bottles. However, this function is standard on most of their larger backpacks.

3. How Easily Can Rain Be Kept Out of an LL Bean Backpack? – FAQs

Even though many LL Bean bags are treated to repel water, they are not entirely waterproof. In the event of a downpour, it is advised that you store your equipment in a waterproof container.

4. If I Buy an LL Bean Backpack, Can I Use it for Anything Else Besides Hiking? – FAQs

Many of the LL Bean bags discussed here are suitable for a wide variety of outdoor pursuits, including camping and hiking.

5. Where Can I Find the Specifications for the Backpacks’ Maximum Load? – FAQs

How much you can pack into your backpack is dependent on the style and size you choose. However, most LL Bean bags can carry up to 40 pounds of gear without a problem.

You can find more information on LL Bean’s backpacks by visiting their website.

6. Do These Backpacks Have Straps I Can Adjust to Make Them More Comfortable to Carry? – FAQs

All of the LL Bean bags featured here have detachable and/or adjustable shoulder straps and hip belts so you can get the perfect fit.

Ben Wann- Tent Camping Expert
AUTHOR

My name is Ben Wann, and I’m a lifelong tent camper and backpacker who jumps on every opportunity to get out and enjoy nature! I created this site to inspire others to get outside and to make the process easier for you.