So you got all this sweet gear but you’re still carrying it in that old JanSport you used in college? We are going to tell you our top picks for the best climbing packs this year!
Rock climbing bags are important for multiple reasons. They need to be light and comfortable, but also durable and functional. This means that you will need to be careful when picking your crag bag as it will be something that will last a long time.
You can easily go to Amazon and search something link “climbing backpacks” and find a slew of bags under $50, but most of these bags are not quality products. If you don’t recognize the brand name, it probably isn’t worth it, even if the reviews are stellar.
The main qualities you want in your climbing pack are as follows:
- Lightweight Materials
- Comfortable Shoulder Straps
- Waist/Chest Straps
- Secure Closure System
- Adequate Volume
Most climbing packs will need to be somewhere between 20-40 liters. This will ensure you can fit the essentials for the day without having excessive bulk. The size of your back will also depend on what you plan to bring out for the day. If you carrying a 70m rope you might need a larger pack, whereas, if you are bouldering and just need shoes and chalk you can get away will a minimalist pack.
Before picking your pack make sure you know how to properly size it.
Best Crag Packs
The following is a review of the best climbing pack on the market today. This will include minimalist packs, crag packs, and rock climbing gym bags.
All Around – Mountain Hardwear Scrambler 30 OutDry
100% Waterproof
- Hardwave Suspension
- Compressions Straps
- Deep Side Pockets
This pack is large enough for an all-day trip but light enough to go everywhere. The waterproof feature also makes this an excellent choice for offseason activities, such as summer kayaking or winter snowboarding.
Budget Rope Hauler – Trango Crag Pack
Compartment for Shoes
- Mini Tarp Included
- Easy Rope Pack Design
- Guidebook Pocket
This climbing pack is perfect for any rope climbers looking to make rope management and hauling easier. Designed specifically with Sport and Trad climbers in mind, the Trango pack excels in performance without breaking the bank.
Best Scrambling Pack – Osprey Packs Daylite Daypack
Lightweight
- Minimalist (13L)
- Hydration Pocket
- Simple and Effective
This pack is also a great option for climbers sharing the load on the approach. In other words, if your partner is carrying the rope you can use the Daylite pack to carry the shoes and harnesses. You can’t go wrong with the highly versatile Osprey Day Pack.
Best Rock Climbing Gym Bag – Metolius Speedster Bag
Backpack Style Carry
- Fits 70m Rope + Gear
- Large Tarp for Easy Packing
- Zipper Pocket for Keys
This pack is massive and ready for all the gear you could fathom. The easy closure system is great for anyone looking to simplify rope management. The Speedster features a backpack style carry so you don’t have to lug your gear around on one shoulder.
The minimalist option for this category is the SuperSlacker.
Best Bouldering Pack – Mammut Neon Crag
28 Liter Pack
- 3D EVA Foam
- Compression Straps
- Durable Design
This pack is super secure with its 2 part closure system so you don’t have to worry about losing any gear during the approach.
The lightweight, compressible Neon Crag is perfect for all the pebble wrestlers out there!
Best Crag Pack – DMM Flight Sport Crag Pack
Comfortable Carry
- Easy Load Shell
- Fits 80m Rop + Gear
- Extra Anchor Points
With a simple clamshell style closure, packing your gear has never been so easy. Make sure to take the DMM Flight Pack on your next Cragging experience.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed the packs listed above. If your favorite crag pack wasn’t mentioned, please leave a comment below telling us. We love to hear your feedback!
Keep Crushing!
Owner and Operator of Every Last Rock. He is dedicated to spreading the Stoke about all things climbing. Often found Bouldering around the US and obsessively training.
