Backpacks & bags
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- (53)Salomon Active Skin 4 Running Vest Set Pack - Unisex$124.95
- (34)MEC Recycled Duffle Bag - Unisex$69.95 - $89.95
- (10)MEC Large Recycled Duffle Bag - Unisex$109.95
- (1994)Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack - Unisex$279.95
- (0)Patagonia Black Hole Duffle - Unisex$199.00 - $249.00
- (1002)Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack - Unisex$314.95
- (2820)The North Face Base Camp Duffle - Unisex$179.99 - $259.99
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MEC backpacks and bags
From versatile storage to rugged durability, explore our collection of backpacks built for everyday adventure.
- (22)Osprey Hikelite 18 Daypack - Unisex$129.95
- (26)Osprey Exos 58 Backpack - Unisex$329.95
- (0)Osprey Tempest 33 Backpack - Women's$259.95
- (41)Gregory Baltoro 65 Backpack - Unisex$459.95
- (0)MEC Travel Light Daypack - Unisex$59.95
- (1)MEC Campus Book Bag - Unisex$64.95
- (10)Salomon Trailblazer 10L Pack - Unisex$79.95
- (43)Black Diamond Distance 22 Backpack - Unisex$69.93$89.97
- (0)MEC Eyas Daypack - Children$49.95
- (4)MEC Journey 28L Daypack - Unisex$79.94$109.95
- (0)MEC HippoCampus Book Bag - Unisex$79.95
- (1)MEC Outpost 30L Backpack - Unisex$139.95
- (9)Pika 15 Daypack$39.95
- (5)MEC Zephyr 65L Backpack - Men's$269.95
- (0)MEC Trail 24 Pack - Unisex$69.95
- (0)MEC Trail 18 Pack - Unisex$59.95
- (25)Black Diamond Distance 8 Backpack - Men's$59.93$199.95
- (14)MEC Travel Light Duffle - Unisex$69.95
- (1)MEC Outpost 40L Travel Pack - Unisex$199.95
- (13)MEC x SERRATUS Pace UL 40 Pack - Unisex$189.95
- (217)The North Face Mini Explorer 10 Daypack - Youths$49.99
- (7)MEC Vista 70L Backpack - Men's$249.95
- (6)Salomon Trailblazer 30L Pack - Unisex$119.95
- (2)Patagonia Black Hole MLC Travel Pack - Unisex$299.00
- (7)Osprey Ariel 65 Backpack - Women's$419.95
- (2)Osprey Talon 33 Backpack - Men's$259.95
- (3)Osprey Farpoint Trek 55 - Unisex$339.95
- (18)Osprey Tropos 32 Daypack - Unisex$233.95
- (30)Arcane Large 20L Daypack$149.95
- (39)Osprey Daylite Tote Daypack - Unisex$119.95
- (0)Osprey Flare 27 Backpack$119.95
- (28)Osprey Proxima 30 Backpack - Unisex$139.95
- (0)Osprey Talon 11 Backpack - Men's$189.95
- (0)Osprey Tempest 11 Backpack - Women's$189.95
- (11)Osprey Quasar 26 Daypack - Unisex$159.95
- (11)Osprey Daylite Carry On 35 Travel Pack - Unisex$159.95
- (365)Cotopaxi Batac 24L Pack - Unisex$115.00
- (0)Osprey Talon 22 Extended Fit Daypack - Unisex$229.95
- (0)Osprey Raven 4 Hip Pack - Women's$179.95
- (0)Osprey Raven 14 Extended Fit Hydration Pack - Women's$249.95
- (0)Osprey Raven 14 Hydration Pack - Women's$249.95
- (0)Osprey Raptor 4 Hip Pack - Unisex$179.95
- (0)Osprey Raptor 14 Hydration Pack - Unisex$249.95
- (0)Osprey Talon 6 Extended Fit Hip Pack - Men's$129.95
- (0)Osprey Tempest 22 Extended Fit Daypack - Women's$229.95
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Backpacks
Whether you’re biking across campus or chasing the sunrise in the backcountry, the right backpack makes all the difference. Bring everything you need with daypacks, packing cubes, school bags, and backcountry packs from favourite brands like MEC Label, Patagonia, Osprey, Cotopaxi and more.
Streamline your packing system
By having a packing system, you can save a lot of space (and stress) while you’re on the go. Accessories like packing cubes are a great way to keep your bags organized while you travel. For convenience, waist packs and fanny packs give you a hands-free way to carry and access your most-used items. If you’re looking at rain in the forecast, dry bags are essential for outdoor trips.
How to find your backpack fit
Knowing how to pack a backpack is key to making sure you can take all the essentials, while still ensuring that your backpack is comfortable to carry. Consider the size of the backpack based on your needs. Planning on a day hike? Then you’re going to want to go with a daypack (10-25 litres) with room for a hydration packs or water bottle, as well as other hiking essentials for day trips. Hostel-hopping through Europe or exploring the Juan de Fuca Trail would call for a bigger pack (think 50–60L) to haul your overnight essentials.
Capacity and size
Once you know what you'll be using your backpack for, you'll want to think about what capacity you’ll need. We've outlined a general sizing guide, so you'll know what to look for when choosing a backpack.
- School/work bags: 15-30 litres
- Daypacks: 10-25 litres
- Backpacking packs (multi-day): 55-70 litres
- Travel packs: 45-75 litres
- Rock climbing packs: 30–50 litres
- Trail running packs: 3-12 litres
- Bikepacking packs: 10-25 litres
- Mountain biking packs: 10-25 litres
- Ski touring packs: 35-55 litres
Consider the capacity of the backpack in litres to ensure it can hold everything you need for your activity type. You'll want a lighter backpack for activities where weight matters, like multi-day backpacking or trail running. Heavier backpacks can be used for activities where you won't be carrying a heavy load for long distances. Learn more about what to look for in your bag based on your activities in our article on how to choose and fit a backpack.
Fit and comfort
Having a properly fitted backpack is essential for comfort and to keep weight off your shoulders. Ensure the bag has adjustable straps to customize the fit and padding so that you're not straining your shoulders or back.
Many packs come in various sizes for different body types. Look for a “back length” or “torso length” measurement when shopping for a pack. It’s the best indication of how the pack will fit while you're active. Not sure about your size? Come into your local MEC store and try out some options, or order different sizes online to test out, and return anytime. When testing out backpacks, add weight to the bag so you know how it feels when it's packed.
Features and accessories
Backpacks have different features for different uses. Consider all the features you need from a bag such as different compartments, hydration bladder reservoirs, external attachment points, trampoline backs and ventilation, easy access pockets, compression straps, load lifters, rain covers, etc.
When shopping for a backpack, durability is key. You'll want a backpack that lasts for the long-haul, so look for elements that will help to promote its longevity like water resistance, reinforced stitching, quality materials and construction and good zippers.
Price and budget
While it's important to invest in a high-quality backpack that will last, there are also affordable options available that offer great features and durability. Compare prices and features to find the best backpack that fits within your budget.