Kilimanjaro backpack: how to choose the perfect hiking backpack for your climb

Choosing the right backpack for climbing Kilimanjaro is essential. Depending on your chosen route, you’ll carry it from camp to camp over 5–9 days, traversing diverse climate zones — from humid tropics to the arctic summit with glaciers. A well-chosen backpack greatly impacts your comfort during the trek. 

Altezza Travel has prepared a guide to help you select the right backpack, including options from budget-friendly to premium. Regardless of the price, all recommended models come from trusted international brands specializing in gear for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.

Do I need to carry a backpack on Kilimanjaro?

Yes, you'll need to carry a daypack on Kilimanjaro for essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, sunscreen, and personal items. Porters will carry the bulk of your gear, including your duffel bag, so you can focus on the climb. 

Unlike a casual city daypack, a hiking Kilimanjaro daypack should minimize strain on your shoulders and back, provide quick access to water, snacks, clothing, and gear, and protect your belongings from rain and dust.

What size backpack do I need for Kilimanjaro?

We recommend choosing models with a 30–40-liter (1,800–2,400 cu inches) capacity. This "golden standard" for Kilimanjaro daypack size fits all the essentials for the trek without risking overloading.

Additionally, your Kilimanjaro daypack should be made from water-resistant materials like nylon or polyester and include a rain cover. Since mountain weather can change rapidly, you may not always have the chance to dry your items. Look for these ergonomic features:

• Hip belt to balance the load distribution.
• Ventilated back panel to reduce sweat buildup during hikes.
• Smart pocket system for easy access to essentials. Trekking pole attachments are also a bonus.

Recommended backpacks for climbing Kilimanjaro

RedFox Alpine 30

The 30-liter RedFox Alpine backpack is crafted from Robic, a lightweight fabric resistant to abrasion and punctures. Its frame follows the natural curve of your back and features a soft ventilation channel.

It includes attachment points for gear like trekking poles or ice axes* and side pockets for water bottles or hydration systems. Price: $89 on the RedFox website (discounts may vary).

Teton Numa

Available in 30- and 45-liter capacities, Teton Numa features a rain cover, ventilation system, ergonomic shoulder straps, hip belt, and holders for water bottles or hydration systems.

Named after Mount Numa in Glacier National Park, USA, it’s designed for challenging trekking conditions. The manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty. Price: $90 on the Teton website.

Quechua MH 500

This 40-liter waterproof polyester backpack is available in two sizes: one for individuals under 170 cm (5'7") and another for those 170 cm (5'7") and taller. Designed at the foot of Mont Blanc – the highest peak of the Alps – it is ideal for regular hikes.

Features include padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, a ventilated mesh back panel, nine main pockets, and two belt pockets. Price: $109 on Decathlon website.

Osprey Talon 36

With a 34-liter capacity, the Talon 36 is perfect for light hikes or multi-day ascents, including Kilimanjaro. It includes a hip belt, upper straps for better body fit, elastic side pockets, hydration bladder space, and trekking pole attachments. Made from recycled high-strength nylon. Price: $150 on the Osprey website.

The North Face Summit Series Phantom 38

The Phantom 38 is designed for both trekking and serious mountaineering missions. In addition to comfortable straps, including a chest strap with a whistle, it easily attaches skis, an ice axe, rope, or climbing gear.

It is made from semi-transparent, water-resistant fabric. A unique feature of that fabric is that it allows you to see the placement of items inside from the outside. Available on The North Face website for $179, it is part of the Summit Series collection, which includes equipment and gear for trekking and climbing.

Gregory Stout 35

Equally suitable for men and women, thanks to the easily adjustable VersaFit back panel for a custom fit. It is equipped with breathable back and shoulder straps, a convenient pocket system for gear and hydration systems, as well as a built-in rain cover.

The bottom section includes a compartment for a sleeping bag. The backpack is available on the Gregory website for $180.

Arc'teryx Aerios 35

With a base volume of 35 liters, it is made of ultra-light, durable 210D Hadron LCP fabric, resistant to abrasion. Its accessible design with a flip-top lid can increase capacity by 10 liters. The hip belt features a patented two-point adjustment system, along with pockets for soft flasks and smartphones.

The main section includes compartments for essentials, water or a hydration system, and trekking pole attachments. This model is priced at $250 on the Arc'teryx website.

Black Diamond Beta Light 30

Designed specifically for rapid movement and long-distance travel, it combines durability, lightness, and carrying comfort. The backpack’s body, made from waterproof Ultra 200 fabric, provides extra rain protection with sealed seams.

The frame lining and hip belt can be detached to lighten the overall structure or, alternatively, additional compression straps can be used for a more secure load. The bag also features spacious side pockets for water, snacks, and personal items and is compatible with hydration systems.

This model costs $370 on the Black Diamond website.

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