Being self-sufficient and safe is crucial during long runs, especially running solo. Whether tackling a commute-like long run with a pack, chasing multiple high peaks, or training for a marathon or ultra-distance race, having the right running backpack is essential.
A running backpack is a key part of your gear for long trail runs, pounding miles on the pavement, or a combination of both. It keeps you prepared and ensures you can carry the essentials, like hydration, snacks, and safety gear, without hindering your performance.
Choosing the right pack is personal, much like picking running shoes—comfort is everything. Once you find a pack that fits well and feels right, it becomes a reliable part of your running routine.
What to Consider in a Running Backpack
Running backpacks have significantly improved over the years, offering advanced features that minimize their impact on performance.
The best packs are designed to be so comfortable and functional that you’ll barely notice you’re wearing one. Most modern options include ergonomic harness systems to keep your belongings secure, reducing bounce that could disrupt your running form, cause distractions, or even lead to injury. Many packs now feature ventilation channels to improve airflow and prevent overheating.
Best Overall:
Ultimate Direction FastpackHer 30 Running Backpack
- Capacity: 30L
- Weight: 1.3L
- Hydration Capacity: Up to 3L
Pros
- Spacious design with large capacity
- Conveniently placed accessible pockets
- Easily adjustable for a personalized fit
Cons
- Excessive straps that may feel cumbersome
Overview
The Ultimate Direction FastpackHer is the perfect companion for covering long distances quickly, offering the ideal blend of comfort, capacity, and durability. It is designed specifically for women and features a compact torso height and ergonomic shoulder straps, ensuring a better fit. This versatile pack holds up to 30 liters, making it suitable for carrying layers, food, headlamps, first aid kits, and more for a full day’s adventure. Ultimate Direction also offers unisex 20L and 40L fastpack options for different preferences.
Built with lightweight polyester and a minimalist design, the pack minimizes weight while maintaining durability. Multiple pockets on the shoulder straps and chest provide convenient storage, freeing up space in the main compartment for bulkier items. Top and side access to the main compartment ensures easy retrieval of essentials during quick stops.
Adjustable straps on the chest, waist, and shoulders keep the load secure, even with its larger capacity. This pack combines the perks of a running vest with the storage capacity of a backpack, all in a durable and lightweight design.
The latest version features updated, more breathable fabrics and Ultimate Direction’s FastFlow technology on the back panel. This technology enhances vapor flow and moisture wicking for comfort on long adventures.
Pros
- Built for durability and long-lasting performance
- Engineered for serious, demanding use
- Lightweight design
Cons
- No external pockets Con Only basic storage
- Limited to basic storage options
Overview
Known for equipping some of the best mountaineers in the world to tackle challenging peaks, RAB brings its expertise to runners with the affordable Tensor pack, priced at just $65. With 40 years of experience, RAB’s gear is robust and reliable, making the Tensor a top choice whether you’re summiting peaks, running local trails, or racking up miles on your neighborhood path.
The Tensor’s streamlined design may seem simple, but it’s intentional—keeping everything secure inside to minimize bouncing and snagging. Built with insights from alpine ascents and competitive mountain running, it offers top-tier functionality for your adventure runs.
The main compartment easily holds essentials like a windbreaker, snacks, sunscreen, and a hydration bladder, while comfortable shoulder straps and reflective details on the back add comfort and safety.
Notably, RAB is committed to sustainability. The Tensor is PFAS-free, and the brand actively reduces reliance on harmful fluorocarbons, repairs, reuses gear, and incorporates recycled fabrics into their products.
Most Ultralight:
Black Diamond Distance 15
- Capacity: 15L
- Weight: 12.8 oz
- Hydration Capacity: up to 17 oz plus internal reservoir pocket
Pros
- Robust construction combined with a lightweight design
Cons
- Rigid body material restricts flexibility for packing
Overview
Black Diamond is renowned for creating durable and functional products that excel in real-life adventures, and the Distance 15 pack is no exception. It’s a rugged, weather-resistant pack designed on a true running vest chassis. With body-hugging, pocket-filled shoulder straps, it keeps the load secure and balanced, all while weighing less than 13 ounces.
The Distance 15 provides a comfortable fit, ample storage capacity, and an impressive number of harness pockets. It features four oversized, stretchy mesh pockets secured with elastic shock cords—perfect for holding a large phone or water flask—and two zippered pockets for safely stowing essentials like keys, cash, credit cards, and ID.
The main compartment uses a roll-top closure and unfurls to reveal a spacious single compartment. This design maximizes gear capacity, making it easy to pack everything you need. However, the rigid, abrasion-resistant Dynex material doesn’t stretch, so the 15-liter capacity is a firm limit. Despite this, the pack’s durability and practical features make it an excellent choice for demanding pursuits.
Best for Rain:
Osprey Manta 24
- Capacity: 24L
- Weight: 15.2 oz
- Hydration Capacity: 2.5L
Pros
- Packed with practical features
- Comfortable design
- Includes a protective rain cover
- Quick-access hip-belt pockets
Cons
- Heavy
Overview
The Osprey Manta 24 is a versatile pack with plenty of space for all-day outings, whether running, hiking, or biking. Its frame features Osprey’s signature tensioned, contoured back panel, which helps prevent sweat buildup for added comfort.
This pack includes an easy-to-access rain cover for weather protection and multiple pockets for organizing smaller valuables, ensuring convenience and security. While no pack can truly do it all, the Manta 24 is an excellent choice for those seeking a durable, comfortable pack for long adventures.
Most Stable:
Drankful Adventure Backpack
- Capacity: 9L
- Weight: 1.21 lb
- Hydration Capacity: 1.5L
Pros
- Convenient on-the-go accessibility
- Adaptable design suitable for various adventures
Cons
- Limited space in the main compartment
Overview
The Drankful Adventure Pack combines the convenience of a day pack with advanced ergonomics for improved stability and versatility. Unlike traditional hydration packs, its specially designed reservoir sits horizontally at the lower back, reducing bounce and increasing comfort compared to the usual vertical reservoir setup. Expandable cinch straps and deployable bungees make it easy to secure layers and poles.
A magnetic clasp at the top replaces a zipper, allowing for quick one-handed access to your gear. This unique design keeps contents close to your body, while the lumbar water bladder eliminates the frustrating bounce often found in other hydration packs.
