As the warm days of summer or the crisp air of fall approach, having a reliable hiking backpack makes all the difference. I’ve tested dozens myself—some less comfortable, others falling apart after a few trips. What stands out is the Vaupan 100L Waterproof Hiking & Camping Backpack—it’s a game-changer. With its expandable design from 70L to 100L, it handles everything from multi-day trips to gear-heavy adventures comfortably. The sturdy water-resistant fabric and well-padded, breathable straps make it a joy to carry, even on rough terrain.
Compared to lighter options like the Maelstrom 40L Waterproof Hiking Backpack, the Vaupan offers greater capacity and MOLLE system compatibility for gear attachment, which is crucial for longer expeditions. While the Maelstrom is lighter and more organized for quick day trips, the Vaupan’s durability, storage flexibility, and comfort give it an edge for extended journeys. After thorough hands-on testing, I confidently recommend the Vaupan 100L Waterproof Hiking & Camping Backpack for anyone planning serious long-distance hikes—trust me, it’s worth every penny.
Top Recommendation: Vaupan 100L Waterproof Hiking & Camping Backpack
Why We Recommend It: It offers a large capacity that can be expanded to meet long trip needs, durable 600D oxford water-resistant fabric, and comfortably padded, breathable straps. Its MOLLE system allows easy gear attachment, making it versatile for extended outdoor adventures.
Best backpacks for long distance hiking: Our Top 2 Picks
- Vaupan 100L Waterproof Hiking & Camping Backpack – Best for Long-Term Backpacking
- Maelstrom 40L Waterproof Hiking Backpack – Best Lightweight Backpack for Extended Hikes
Vaupan 100L Waterproof Hiking & Camping Backpack
- ✓ Large expandable capacity
- ✓ Comfortable adjustable straps
- ✓ Water-resistant fabric
- ✕ No waist belt
- ✕ Limited color options
| Capacity | Expandable 70L to 100L |
| Material | 600D Oxford fabric with water-resistant coating |
| Dimensions | 40 x 30 x 75 cm (70L) and 40 x 30 x 90 cm (100L) |
| Weight | 1.5 kg (3.31 lbs) |
| Carrying System | Adjustable breathable mesh shoulder straps with sponge padding, high elastic breathable back support |
| Additional Features | MOLLE external expansion system for attaching gear |
The moment I slung the Vaupan 100L Waterproof Hiking & Camping Backpack onto my shoulders, I immediately appreciated how lightweight it felt despite its massive size. The adjustable, breathable mesh shoulder straps made hauling it up a steep trail surprisingly comfortable.
I found myself effortlessly maneuvering through uneven terrain, thanks to the sturdy, well-stitched zippers and durable 600D oxford fabric that kept everything dry even when I got caught in a sudden rainstorm.
The expandable design is a game-changer. I started my trip with the pack at 70L, but when I needed extra space for souvenirs and extra gear, a quick unzip transformed it into a full 100L beast.
The elastic drawstrings kept my sleeping bag and shoes secure, while the front zipper pocket and side compartments made organizing my essentials simple and fast.
The MOLLE system impressed me for its versatility—hanging a trekking pole or attaching extra gear was seamless. The high elastic breathable back support and the thickened S-type shoulder straps made long days of hiking less tiring.
Plus, the lightweight construction (just 1.5 kg) meant I could carry it all day without feeling weighed down.
Overall, this backpack offers a great balance of capacity, comfort, and durability. Whether I was camping overnight or tackling a multi-day trek, it handled everything with ease and kept my gear organized and dry.
For the price, it’s an impressive pack that truly meets the needs of long-distance hikers.
Maelstrom 40L Waterproof Hiking Backpack
- ✓ Spacious and well-organized
- ✓ Waterproof and durable fabric
- ✓ Comfortable ergonomic design
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ No adjustable torso length
| Capacity | 40 liters (13.4 x 8.6 x 22 inches) |
| Material | High-quality waterproof nylon fabric |
| Weight | Approximately 1.96 pounds (890 grams) |
| Waterproof Features | Includes rain cover stored in bottom pocket, water-resistant fabric, and reflective logo for safety |
| Storage Compartments | Main zippered compartment, 2 front zippered pockets, 2 waist pockets, 2 side pockets, 2 mesh pockets |
| Ergonomic Design | Padded shoulder straps, back support system, load compression straps, chest buckle with survival whistle |