If you’re an avid hiker or outdoor pursuits enthusiast, you’ll understand the importance of having a reliable bag at your side. While backpacks are a practical choice for outdoor adventures, they’re pretty limited when it comes to storage capacity. Instead of having to make compromises with a bag that doesn’t quite cut it, why not make the switch to a tote instead?
Arguably one of the best types of bags for hiking, totes are generously proportioned, durable, and designed with heavy loads in mind. Additionally, the best tote bags feature user-friendly handles and straps, enhancing carrying comfort, no matter how long you’re out on the trail.
What to Look for in Day Bags for Hiking
Not sure where to start when looking for a tote for hiking? No need to panic. Below, we’ve summed up some of the most important factors to consider when choosing your dream hiking tote.
Lightweight and Comfortable
Carrying comfort matters when you’re out hiking. You’ll need to carry a full inventory of food, water, first aid supplies, and much more. Carting a heavy load is even more exhausting when you factor in all those miles walked over rough terrain. When choosing a tote, go for a design made from lightweight materials. Even a small weight saving can help lighten the load and make your hiking adventures more comfortable. Ergonomic handles and straps will boost the comfort credentials of your tote bag further.
Durability and Weather Resistance
A good day hiking bag needs to be ready for adventures off the beaten path. When selecting a suitable bag, never underestimate the importance of tote durability. A hard-wearing bag made from quality materials will see you through many a hiking trip, while features like reinforced seams add to longevity.
Water resistance is also important. To ensure your bag is braced for the elements, look for designs that feature welded seams or have been finished with a waterproofing spray treatment.
Storage Capacity
Whether you’re taking a solo hike or enjoying an excursion with friends, you’ll have to haul a large inventory of items with you. All those essentials quickly add up and smaller bag options like backpacks simply don’t have enough space to accommodate all of them. With a large tote, you benefit from generous dimensions and ample storage capacity. For maximum convenience, go for a tote with an open-plan interior that can be customized with dividers, packing cubes, and smaller pouches.
Multi-Functionality
Even if you’re a dedicated hiker, chances are you’re not going to be out hitting the trail every day of the week. As such, it doesn’t make sense to invest in a tote that can only be used for hiking. Instead, go with a versatile bag design that can be used for all manner of occasions. A quality tote can be repurposed as a beachgoing carryall, while you’ve also got a perfect carrying solution the next time you visit the grocery store. More stylish totes can also be used as work bags, while those spacious interiors make them an ideal choice of travel bag.
Easy to Carry
No matter how lightweight and practical your tote is, it’s going to fall far short of the requirements if it’s not easy to carry. Make sure you’re picking out a tote with a range of carrying options, from sturdy grab handles to adjustable shoulder straps. Swivel wheels are another welcome feature, giving you another method of handling your bag as you embark on your hike.
Best Bags for Hiking
Searching for the perfect companion for your next hiking trip? Below, we’ve cherry-picked some of the best bags for hiking on the market.
Hulken Bag
With its impressive dimensions and generous storage capacity, the Hulken doesn’t skimp on the essentials. The largest Hulken can comfortably hold loads of up to 66 pounds (around 30 kilos), with space enough for up to five full bags of groceries. What’s more, the Hulken is incredibly durable. Made from hard-wearing polypropylene and featuring a reinforced baseboard, this stylish tote won't let you down as you enjoy your favorite pastime.
That polypropylene is also water-resistant, making the Hulken an ideal choice for all-weather outdoor adventures. Reinforced seams add to the hardiness of this tote, while unbreakable grab handles and shoulder strap make for complete carrying convenience. Looking to take the load off when traversing flatter terrain? The Hulken boasts swivel wheels with a 360-degree rotation, meaning you can simply roll your tote alongside you.
Ortlieb Atrack Backpack
The Ortlieb Atrack is a stylish choice for anyone looking to replace their existing hiking bag. Designed with outdoor adventures in mind, this waterproof bag boasts a generous 45-liter capacity, making it large enough for those who can’t travel light.
Offering all the benefits of a quality drybag, this functional accessory also comes with watertight zippers to keep the elements out. It also scores top marks for comfort and customization, with an adjustable back panel, ergonomic shoulder straps, and a padded hip belt.
Granite Gear Blaze
With its 60-liter capacity, the Granite Gear Blaze is a beefed-up choice of backpack that will go down well with hikers. With this backpack over your shoulders, you can effortlessly carry loads weighing up to 45 pounds, while an adjustable hip belt allows for maximum comfort.
Custom fabric makes this bag particularly durable, while high-impact and abrasion areas are reinforced with innovative Robic nylon fabric. Another nifty detail of this backpack is that the lid can be removed and used as a chest pack. Perfect if you like traveling with smaller valuables upfront.
REI Co-op Flash 55
If you’re looking for carrying convenience and stability, the REI Co-op Flash 55 is well worth a look. This lightweight backpack can carry loads of up to 30 pounds, while a roll-top lid enhances its weatherproofing and water-resistant credentials. The torso can be adjusted for a bespoke fit, while compression straps allow you to contour your backpack to what you’re carrying with you.
What’s more, this stylish backpack boasts multiple attachments for anchoring other hiking essentials, while the bag itself is compatible with a wide variety of REI accessories.
Why Tote Bags are Great for Hiking and Outdoor Fitness
Thanks to their heavy-duty construction and weather-resistant materials, tote bags are the ideal choice for outdoor pursuits and hiking. Additionally, comfortable carrying options and generous storage capacities make them a practical choice for exploring the great outdoors.
How to Choose the Right Outdoor Fitness Tote Bag
Before you settle on a specific tote bag, ask yourself what you need from your new accessory. Are you looking to replace a compact backpack? Opt for a tote with a generous interior. Tired of having to dry out wet gear? A waterproof tote and welded seams will help keep moisture out.
Why Hulken Tote Bags are Perfect for Hiking and Outdoor Activities
Thanks to its spacious interior, hard-wearing construction, and practical carrying features, the Hulken is well-suited to hiking and outdoor activities. When the adventures are over and you’re ready to head home, the Hulken can be folded flat for easy storage or brought out for another occasion.
Ready to take to the trail with a new tote in tow? Buy your next tote from the Hulken website. Alternatively, why not check out the Hulken Amazon storefront?
