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Philmont Scout Ranch is one of the largest youth camps in the world, nestled in the stunning landscapes of northern New Mexico near the charming village of Cimarron. It’s a place where adventure meets tradition, and every year, over 22,000 backpacking enthusiasts flock here to tackle its legendary trails and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
But let me tell you, as someone who’s been there, Philmont isn’t just a walk in the park. The rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and long days on the trail demand the right gear—and the most important piece of gear is your backpack.
I remember my first Philmont trek like it was yesterday. I showed up with a borrowed backpack that was too big, poorly fitted, and had zero organization.
By the end of the first day, my shoulders were screaming, my gear was a jumbled mess, and I was seriously questioning my life choices. It was a hard lesson, but it taught me that a good backpack isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Choosing the right backpack, especially on a tight budget, can feel overwhelming. There are so many options out there, and it’s easy to get lost in the sea of features, sizes, and price tags. Should you go for ultralight or extra durability? How much capacity do you really need? And what about all those pockets and straps—do you actually need them?
I’ve been through the struggle of finding the perfect backpack, and I’ve made my fair share of mistakes along the way. But over the years, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, I’m here to help you navigate the process and find the best backpack for your Philmont trip.
So, if you’re ready to ditch the discomfort and gear up for an unforgettable adventure, keep reading.
Because trust me, the right backpack can make all the difference between a grueling trek and the experience of a lifetime.
Short on Time? Here’s Our Top Pick for Philmont Backpacks
Table of Contents
Granite Gear Blaze 60L
- Incredibly lightweight yet handles heavy loads like a champ.
- Fully adjustable torso length for a personalized fit.
- Nice suspension And Proper Ventilation.
- Thoughtfully designed pockets for easy organization.
- Multiple external straps for extra gear.
When it comes to finding the perfect balance between weight, durability, and comfort, the Granite Gear Blaze 60L stands out as my top pick. I’ve taken this backpack on multiple treks, including a challenging Philmont expedition, and it never let me down. Here’s why it’s a winner:
Lightweight Yet Tough: At just over 3 pounds, it’s one of the lightest backpacks I’ve used, but don’t let that fool you—it can comfortably carry heavy loads without compromising on durability.
Fully Adjustable Torso Length: This feature was a game-changer for me. It allowed me to customize the fit perfectly, eliminating shoulder strain and back pain even on long hikes.
Superior Ventilation: The suspension system keeps air flowing, so your back stays cool even on hot, sweaty days.
Thoughtful Storage: Tons of pockets and multiple external straps make organizing gear a breeze. I especially loved the easy-access side pockets for water bottles and snacks.
You can also read an in-depth review of Granite Gear with Pros and Cons Below.
Still Unsure? Here’s a Quick Buying Guide
With so many backpacks on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. The question is:
How To Choose A Perfect Backpack For Philmont in 2025?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about which backpack to choose, don’t worry—I’ve been there too.
On my first Philmont trek, I made the mistake of picking a backpack based solely on price, and I paid for it (literally and figuratively) with sore shoulders and a lot of frustration. That’s why I’m here to help you avoid the same pitfalls and find the perfect backpack for your adventure.
Our Goal
Our goal is simple: to help you find a backpack that balances comfort, durability, and functionality.
Trust me, it’s worth investing a few extra dollars in a high-quality backpack that won’t leave you miserable on the trail.
Size Of A Backpack For Philmont
Choosing the right size backpack can make or break your trip. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own experiences:
40 to 50L Backpacks: These are great if you’re a minimalist packer and have lightweight, compact gear. I’ve used a 50L backpack on shorter trips, and it worked well—but only because I carefully planned every item I brought.
60L Backpacks: For most Philmont treks, especially those lasting 10 to 12 days, a 60L backpack is the sweet spot. It gives you enough space for your personal gear, crew gear, and food without feeling overly bulky. On my last Philmont trip, I used a 60L backpack, and it was a lifesaver. It had just enough room for everything I needed, and the adjustable straps made it easy to distribute the weight comfortably.
What to Look for in a Backpack
After years of trial and error (and a lot of sore shoulders), I’ve narrowed down the key features to look for in a Philmont backpack:
Adjustable Torso Length: A one-size-fits-all backpack rarely fits anyone perfectly. Look for a backpack with an adjustable torso length to ensure a snug, comfortable fit.
Top-Notch Ventilation: Trust me, nothing ruins a hike faster than a sweaty, sticky back. A well-ventilated backpack is a must for Philmont’s often hot and humid conditions.
Durable and Lightweight: You want a backpack that can handle rugged terrain without weighing you down.
Thoughtful Storage: Plenty of pockets and compartments make it easier to stay organized on the trail.
Let’s Get Started
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to dive into our top recommendations. Whether you’re a minimalist packer or need extra space for crew gear, we’ve got you covered. Let’s find the perfect backpack for your Philmont adventure!
Comparison Table
| Philmont Backpacks | Our Rating | Speciality | Weight | Volume | Material | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Granite Gear Blaze |
Expert Choice |
One of the lightest backpacks in our test that can bear heavy load like charm. |
3 lbs |
60L |
100D robic nylon with DWR coating |
|
|
Osprey Aether 65 |
Top Pick |
Best For carrying Heavy Load And Come With Decent Fitting Mechanism |
5 lbs |
65L |
420 HD nylon with DWR coating. |
|
|
Osprey Atmos 65 |
Top Pick |
Top-Notch Pockets, Ventilation & Comfort |
4.5 lbs |
65L |
Main body 100D nylon, bottom 420HD nylon. |
|
|
Gregory Zulu 55L |
Top Pick |
Medium Load Backpack For Comfortable Trip |
3.7 lbs |
55L |
210D Honeycomb Criptorip & High Tenacity Nylon. |
|
|
Osprey Farpoint 55 |
Top pick |
Best For Pack Light & Explore More |
3.9 pounds |
55L |
210D Nylon Mini Hex Diamond Ripstop |
5 Best Backpacks For Philmont Detailed Review
1. Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack
Best In Every Parameter
Its Features
- Volume: 60L
- Weight: 3 lbs
- Material: 100D robic nylon with DWR coating.
- Comes with hydration system.
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight yet handles heavy loads like a champ.
- Easy top accessibility for quick packing/unpacking.
- Fully adjustable torso length for a personalized fit.
- Multiple external straps for extra gear.
- Easy top accessibility for quick packing/unpacking.
Cons
- Some tiny buckles are frustrating to deal with, especially with gloves.
The Granite Gear Blaze 60L isn’t just a backpack—it’s a game-changer for treks like Philmont. I’ve taken this backpack on multiple adventures, including a 12-day Philmont trek, and it’s hands-down one of the best I’ve ever used. But like any gear, it has its strengths and a few quirks. Here’s my honest take:
What I Loved About This Backpack
Lightweight Yet Tough: At just over 3 pounds, it’s one of the lightest backpacks I’ve tested, but don’t let that fool you. It carried 50 pounds of gear (yes, I weighed it!) without breaking a sweat. The Air Current frame distributes weight evenly, so even on long days, my shoulders and hips felt great.
Fully Adjustable Torso Length: As someone who’s 6’ tall, I often struggle to find backpacks that fit just right. The Blaze’s adjustable torso length (15-21 inches) was a lifesaver. I set it to 18-19 inches, and it felt like it was custom-made for me.
Superior Ventilation: The back panel’s airflow design kept my back cool, even during those grueling uphill climbs in the New Mexico heat. No more sweaty, sticky back—just pure comfort.
Thoughtful Storage: The hip belt pockets are HUGE. I could fit my smartphone, a map, snacks, and even a small notebook. The side water bottle pockets are perfectly sized, and the top lid is removable if you want to save a little weight.
External Straps for Extra Gear: With 9 external straps, I could easily attach extra gear like a sleeping pad, trekking poles, or even a lightweight camp chair (yes, I brought one for those cozy evenings).
What Could Be Improved
While the Granite Gear Blaze 60L is fantastic, it’s not without its flaws:
Tiny Buckles: Trying to adjust the buckles with gloves on was a nightmare. I ended up taking my gloves off every time I needed to tighten or loosen a strap, which wasn’t ideal in cold weather.
Limited Color Options: This is a minor gripe, but I wish it came in more colors. The muted tones are fine, but a brighter option would make it easier to spot in a sea of gear.
Why It Earned Our Editor’s Choice Award
The Granite Gear Blaze 60L strikes the perfect balance between weight, functionality, and comfort. It’s lightweight enough to make long hikes feel effortless, yet durable enough to handle heavy loads and rugged terrain.
The adjustable torso length and superior ventilation make it a great fit for a wide range of body types, and the thoughtful storage options keep your gear organized and accessible.
On my Philmont trek, this backpack was my trusty companion. It carried everything I needed—from crew gear to personal items—without weighing me down or causing discomfort.
If you’re looking for a backpack that can handle the demands of Philmont while keeping you comfortable, the Granite Gear Blaze 60L is the one to beat.
Final Thoughts
The Granite Gear Blaze 60L isn’t perfect, but it’s pretty close. Its lightweight design, adjustable fit, and thoughtful features make it a standout choice for Philmont and other backpacking adventures. If you’re willing to overlook the tiny buckles (and maybe bring a pair of fingerless gloves), this backpack will serve you well on the trail.
2. Osprey Aether 65 For Philmont Trek
Best For carrying Heavy Load And Better Fitting Mechanism
Its Features
- Volume: 65L
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Material: 420 HD nylon with DWR coating.
- Comes with a hydration system.
- Comes with sleeping bag compartment.
Pros
- Quick and easy to fit mechanism.
- Best for carrying heavy load comfortabily.
- Top and front accessibility.
- Slide lock torso length adjuster can be loosened and tightened according to your height.
Cons
- Heaviest backpack but manage heavy load comfortabily.
- The hip belt and water bottle pockets needs some improvement.
If you’re looking for a workhorse backpack that can haul a ton of gear without sacrificing comfort, the Osprey Aether 65 is worth considering. On my Philmont trek, I had to carry extra layers, a full bear canister, and some luxury items like a camp chair—all of which the Aether handled like a champ.
Comfort & Fit – Built for Heavy Loads
Compared to the Granite Gear Blaze, which is lightweight and agile, the Aether leans into load-hauling strength. At 5 pounds, it’s one of the heavier packs, but thanks to its Airscape back panel and dense foam padding, I never felt like it was digging into my shoulders or straining my back.
One feature I really appreciated was the slide-lock torso adjuster. Adjusting the fit was quick and precise, making it easier to dial in the perfect setup for my 6’0″ frame. The shoulder straps have thick foam padding, which made long-mile days more manageable.
Ventilation – Not as Airy as the Blaze, but Still Effective
Osprey uses an Airscape back panel, which does a decent job keeping airflow moving—but I’d say the Granite Gear Blaze has an edge in breathability. On hot days, my back got noticeably warmer in the Aether, whereas the Blaze’s ventilation kept things cooler.
Storage & Accessibility – More Ways to Get to Your Gear
One of the biggest wins for the Aether 65 is its accessibility. Unlike the Blaze, which mainly relies on top-loading, the Aether gives you three entry points:
- Top lid (traditional top-loading)
- Large U-shaped front zipper (see everything at a glance)
- Bottom compartment (dedicated sleeping bag space)
This made grabbing my gear a breeze, especially when I needed my rain jacket fast without digging through everything.
The hip belt pockets were spacious, but I found them a bit awkward to access compared to the Granite Gear Blaze’s well-positioned pockets. Similarly, the water bottle pockets required some arm twisting to reach, which wasn’t ideal.
Osprey Aether 65 vs. Granite Gear Blaze – Which One’s Better for Philmont?
| Feature | Osprey Aether 65 | Granite Gear Blaze |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 5 lbs (heavier) | 3 lbs (lighter) |
| Load Capacity | Handles 50+ lbs easily | Comfortable up to 50 lbs |
| Ventilation | Airscape back panel (good, but warm) | Better airflow, cooler on hot days |
| Storage & Accessibility | Front U-zip, top, bottom access | Top lid + side water bottle pockets |
| Comfort | Thicker padding, great for heavy loads | Lighter feel, well-balanced suspension |
| Fit Adjustability | Slide-lock torso system (fast & easy) | Torso adjustment (15-21 inches) |
Which One Should You Pick?
- If you prioritize weight savings and breathability, go for the Granite Gear Blaze.
- If you need to haul heavier loads comfortably, the Osprey Aether 65 is the better bet.
Final Verdict: A Solid Pack for Heavy Load Carriers
The Osprey Aether 65 might not be the lightest pack on our list, but for those who value durability, comfort, and gear accessibility, it’s a fantastic choice for a Philmont trek. If you’re bringing extra gear like a bear canister, a luxury camp setup, or heavier food loads, this pack makes carrying it all feel manageable.
That said, if you’re someone who wants to go as light as possible, you might prefer the Granite Gear Blaze. It all comes down to how much weight you plan to carry and what feels best on your back.
3. Osprey Atmos 65 Backpack For Philmont Trek
Better Ventilation And Suspension
![Best Backpack For Philmont 2025[Latest & Comfortable]](https://backpacksidea.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/osprey-atmos-AG-65-for-Philmont.webp)
Its Features
- Volume: 65L
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
- Material: Main body 100D nylon, bottom 420HD nylon.
- Comes with a hydration system.
- Comes with a sleeping bag compartment.
Pros
- Anti-Gravity suspension system for better load distribution.
- Its design and comfort is really impressive.
- Comes with a decent ventilation system.
- Fit on the fly adjustment system.
- Comes with top accessibility.
Cons
- Not good to carry load more then 40 pounds.
From the moment I strapped on the Osprey Atmos AG 65, I could tell this pack was built for comfort. Its Anti-Gravity suspension system made the weight feel lighter than it actually was, and the ventilation was noticeably better than the Osprey Aether 65.
Comfort & Fit – Like Wearing a Hug
The AG system really shines here. Unlike the Aether 65’s Airscape back panel, the Atmos wraps around your back and hips seamlessly. The hip belt folds inward naturally, giving it an almost custom-fit feel. This made long days way more comfortable—but only as long as I kept my load under 40 pounds.
When I pushed past 40 lbs, I started to feel the strain on my shoulders, something that wasn’t an issue with the Aether 65 or Granite Gear Blaze. If you’re a Scouter carrying extra gear, you might want to look at the Aether or Blaze instead.
Storage & Organization – Thoughtfully Designed
The Atmos doesn’t just focus on comfort—it’s also packed with smart storage solutions:
- Top lid with two zippered pockets (perfect for quick-access gear).
- Large hip belt pockets (I easily fit snacks, my phone, and even a small camera).
- Stretchy mesh front pocket (great for wet gear, like my rain jacket).
- Dual water bottle side pockets (angled for easier access while hiking).
I also found the outer body lashing and loop system really useful. I was able to strap extra gear, like fuel bottles and sandals, to the outside without a problem.
Osprey Atmos 65 vs. Osprey Aether 65 vs. Granite Gear Blaze
| Feature | Osprey Atmos 65 | Osprey Aether 65 | Granite Gear Blaze |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 4.5 lbs (moderate) | 5 lbs (heaviest) | 3 lbs (lightest) |
| Load Capacity | Best under 40 lbs | Handles 50+ lbs easily | Comfortable up to 50 lbs |
| Ventilation | Best airflow (AG system) | Decent (Airscape panel) | Good, but not as advanced as Atmos |
| Storage & Accessibility | Top, hip belt, large mesh pockets | Top, front, bottom access | Top lid, side pockets, front zipper |
| Comfort | Best fit & comfort under 40 lbs | Great for heavy loads | Lighter feel, well-balanced suspension |
Which One Should You Pick?
- If you prioritize comfort and ventilation for lighter loads (under 40 lbs), the Osprey Atmos AG 65 is the best choice.
- If you need to carry 50+ lbs comfortably, go for the Osprey Aether 65.
- If you want the lightest option that can still carry 50 lbs, the Granite Gear Blaze is your best bet.
Final Verdict: The Best Philmont Pack for Comfort & Ventilation
The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a dream to wear—as long as you’re not overloading it. It’s by far the most comfortable and well-ventilated pack in our top 5 list, making it a great choice for Philmont trekkers who pack light.
However, if you’re carrying heavier gear, the Aether 65 or Granite Gear Blaze will offer better support.
4. Gregory Zulu 55L Backpack For Philmont
Best For Pack Light & Explore More
![Best Backpack For Philmont 2025[Latest & Comfortable]](https://backpacksidea.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/gregory-zulu-55l-Philmont-backpack.webp)
Its Features
- Volume: 55L
- Weight: 3.7 lbs
- Available in 2 sizes.
- Material: 210D Honeycomb Criptorip & High Tenacity Nylon.
- Comes with a detachable hydration system.
- Comes with a sleeping bag compartment.
- Rain cover is included.
Pros
- Economic backpack for wild camping.
- Comes with decent suspension.
- Feature rich backpack with easy to access functionality.
- Main compartment can be accessed from the top, from front u shaped zipper and from the sleeping bag compartment.
- Water resistance hip belt pockets.
Cons
- Weight is large in terms of its volume.
The Gregory Baltoro 65 was my go-to pack for testing a more budget-friendly option, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it handled a medium load. While not the lightest pack, it offers a great balance between comfort, features, and affordability, making it a solid choice for first-time Philmont trekkers.
Comfort & Suspension – A Well-Padded Fit
Gregory did a great job designing the suspension system. The shoulder straps and hip belt are well-padded, making 40-pound loads feel manageable. It wasn’t as effortless as the Granite Gear Blaze or Osprey Aether 65 when hauling heavy weight, but it was still comfortable for moderate loads.
That said, ventilation was noticeably weaker compared to the Osprey Atmos AG 65. On hot days, I definitely felt more back sweat building up, which made me miss the Atmos’ Anti-Gravity suspension system. If you prioritize airflow, the Atmos would be a better choice.
Storage & Organization – Thoughtful but Bulky
One of Baltoro’s best features is its multiple access points:
- Top lid opening for easy packing.
- Large U-shaped front zipper that gives a full view of the main compartment (super handy for organizing gear).
- Separate sleeping bag compartment for better gear management.
- Beavertail front pocket—I loved this for storing a rain jacket and other quick-access items.
The hip belt pockets are water-resistant, which was a big plus on rainy days at Philmont. However, I found the weight-to-volume ratio to be less efficient than the other backpacks. It felt bulkier than necessary, especially compared to the sleek Granite Gear Blaze or well-balanced Aether 65.
Gregory Baltoro 65 vs. Granite Gear Blaze vs. Osprey Aether 65 vs. Osprey Atmos AG 65
- For First-Time Philmont Trekkers: The Gregory Baltoro 65 is a budget-friendly pick that offers good comfort and features. If you’re not carrying an ultralight load but also not pushing 50+ pounds, this is a great middle-ground choice.
- For Heavy Load Hauling: The Osprey Aether 65 and Granite Gear Blaze perform better with heavier loads. If you’re carrying 50+ lbs, go for one of these.
- For Maximum Comfort & Ventilation: If you prioritize comfort and airflow, the Osprey Atmos AG 65 is the best choice, but it’s not ideal for heavy loads.
- For Ultralight Trekkers: The Granite Gear Blaze is the lightest of the four and still handles weight exceptionally well.
Final Verdict: A Solid Budget Option for Moderate Loads
The Gregory Baltoro 65 is a feature-rich, budget-friendly backpack that excels at carrying moderate loads comfortably. It may not have the best ventilation or be the lightest option, but it offers great storage, easy accessibility, and solid suspension for first-time Philmont adventurers.
However, if weight efficiency or ventilation is a top concern, the Atmos, Aether, or Blaze may be a better fit for you.
5. Osprey Farpoint 55 Backpack For Philmont
Best For Pack Light & Explore More
Its Features
- Volume: 55L
- Weight: 3.9 pounds
- Available in 3 sizes.
- Material: 210D Nylon Mini Hex Diamond Ripstop
- Dimensions: 28 x 14 x 4 inches
Pros
- Comes with detachable bag.
- Lockable padded laptop and tablet sleeve (up to 15").
- Lockable large U zip in the main compartment.
- Large capacity that is easy to pack and comfortable.
- Comes with a detachable day pack.
Cons
- Water bottle pockets are not that much bigger to carry a large size bottle.
- Its frame make is little bit bigger to qualify as a carry on luggage.
When I first packed the Osprey Farpoint 70 for my trek, I immediately loved its versatility. It felt more like a hybrid travel and trekking pack rather than a pure backpacking pack like the Aether, Atmos, or Baltoro. While it’s not the most durable or rugged option, it definitely has its place for light packers who prioritize organization and flexibility.
Comfort & Load Carrying – Best for 35 lbs or Less
The Farpoint 70 handled moderate loads (around 35 lbs) very well, thanks to its LightWire frame suspension. It wasn’t as supportive as the Aether 65 or Blaze, but for lighter packing, it felt comfortable enough.
However, as soon as I tried pushing past 40 lbs, I noticed the lack of robust weight distribution compared to the Aether, Atmos, or even the Baltoro. If you’re planning to carry 50+ lbs, this is not the pack for you—you’d be much better off with Granite Gear Blaze or Osprey Aether 65.
Detachable Daypack – A Fantastic Feature
One of my favorite features was the detachable daypack. This came in handy for short side hikes, town stops, and even carrying essentials separately on bus rides.
- It has a scratch-free stash pocket—perfect for sunglasses and electronics.
- The padded laptop and tablet sleeves make it ideal for travel.
- The side water bottle pockets fit 1L bottles easily, though the main pack’s bottle pockets were too small.
I even wore the daypack in front of me while hiking, which balanced the weight well—a very clever design by Osprey.
Durability – A Step Down from the Competition
While the Farpoint 70 felt well-built, it didn’t match the durability of the other Philmont-ready packs. The 420D nylon of the Aether and the 500D bottom of the Atmos felt noticeably more rugged.
If you’re a minimalist backpacker or someone who prefers to pack light, you’ll likely love this pack. But if you expect harsh terrain and heavy loads, I’d recommend something more robust like the Aether 65 or Gregory Baltoro.
Osprey Farpoint 70 vs. the Other Philmont-Ready Backpacks
- Best for Light Packing & Travel: If you want a hybrid pack for both backpacking and travel, the Farpoint 70 is the best option.
- Best for Heavy Loads: If you need to carry 50+ lbs, the Granite Gear Blaze or Osprey Aether 65 will handle it way better.
- Best for Ventilation & Comfort: The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is still the king of comfort with its Anti-Gravity system—great for hot treks.
- Best Budget Pick: The Gregory Baltoro 65 is affordable while still offering great features and load support.
Common Doubts About Choosing The Right Backpack For Philmont(FAQ)
After spending countless miles on the rugged trails of Philmont, I’ve learned that choosing the right backpack can make or break your trek. A good pack keeps you comfortable, helps distribute weight effectively, and ensures you can focus on the adventure instead of shoulder pain.
Here are some of the most common questions backpackers ask before heading to Philmont—along with insights from my personal experience.
How Big A Backpack Do I Need For Philmont?
Backpack size depends entirely on how much gear you plan to carry. On my first Philmont trek, I overpacked, lugging around a 70L pack bursting at the seams. By the end of the first few days, I realized I was carrying way more than I needed, and my back and shoulders paid the price.
Here’s what I recommend:
- 40–50L – Great for ultra-light packers or those sharing gear with a crew. If you’re experienced at packing efficiently, you can make this work.
- 55–65L – Ideal for most Philmont trekkers. This is the sweet spot where you have enough room for essentials without unnecessary bulk.
- 65L+ – Best for leaders carrying extra crew gear or those who prefer extra comfort items like a heavier sleeping setup or additional clothing.
During my second trek, I used the Osprey Aether 65—a perfect balance of size, comfort, and weight-hauling ability. It allowed me to carry what I needed without overpacking, and the suspension system made a world of difference on long days.
Benefits of Pack Light For Philmont Trek Adventure Trip
I can’t stress this enough—packing light is the key to an enjoyable Philmont trek. On my first trip, I learned the hard way that every extra pound matters. By day four, I was trading extra gear with my crew just to make my pack lighter.
- More comfort – A lighter pack means less strain on your back and knees.
- Faster hiking – You’ll move more efficiently, keeping up with the group easily.
- More time to enjoy nature – Less fatigue means more energy to explore and take in the scenery.
- Fewer injuries – Heavy packs increase the risk of blisters, knee pain, and exhaustion.
What Should You Not Bring To Philmont?
One of the biggest mistakes I made on my first trek was bringing things I never actually used. At Philmont, every ounce counts, so leave behind anything unnecessary.
- Cotton clothing – Philmont provides tents, and cotton takes forever to dry in damp conditions. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics instead.
- Heavy backpacking gear – Bulky sleeping pads, overbuilt boots, and camp chairs are nice in theory but dead weight in practice.
- Too many clothes – Two hiking outfits (one for hiking, one for camp) are all you need. Laundry stations at some camps make overpacking unnecessary.
- Too much food – Philmont provides trail meals, so don’t pack extra food unless you have dietary restrictions.
On my second trek, I ditched the unnecessary gear and used a more streamlined packing approach—it made a world of difference.
Final Thoughts – Which Backpack Should You Choose?
Choosing the right backpack for Philmont is about finding a balance between comfort, durability, and weight.
🏆 Best for Heavy Loads & Ultimate Comfort: Granite Gear Blaze – My top pick for those who need durability, adjustability, and comfort.
💨 Best for Ventilation & Hot Weather: Osprey Atmos AG 65 – The best airflow of any pack I’ve used, perfect for sweaty summer treks.
🛠️ Best for Heavy Hauling & Adjustability: Osprey Aether 65 – Fantastic suspension system for those carrying 50+ lbs.
💰 Best Budget-Friendly Choice: Gregory Baltoro 65 – A feature-rich backpack that doesn’t break the bank.
🎒 Best for Light Packing & Travel Versatility: Osprey Farpoint 70 – Not as rugged as the others, but great for light packers who love organization.
Final Tip: Choose Wisely & Enjoy the Trek!
Your backpack is your home on the trail—pick one that fits your needs and trekking style. Whether you go ultralight or opt for more comfort, making the right choice will set you up for an unforgettable Philmont adventure.
Happy trekking!
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