Kelty Asher 35

The Asher is Kelty's value backpacking pack. At $170 and 3 lb 2 oz it undercuts everything with comparable capacity, and reviewers consistently place it as the budget pick.

Kelty's women's-specific budget backpacking pack is the Nena 60: a perimeter frame, an AMP-Flow ventilated back and an adjustable 15.5-21 in torso for $180. Kelty rates it for 40-60 lb, the same ceiling as the $280 Glendale, at 3.31 lb. It is a top-loader with a sleeping-bag compartment and a centre hydration port.

Extending the Fit-Plus torso range down to 14 in, the women's Glendale 65 keeps the unisex pack's perimeter frame, anti-barreling stay and 30-60 lb rating. Price and weight are identical to the men's version. It is one of the few women's-specific packs rated to 60 lb under $300.

Kelty's top framed backpacking pack, the Glendale uses a perimeter frame, an aluminium anti-barreling stay and the Fit-Plus system that adjusts both torso length and hipbelt. Kelty rates it for 30-60 lb, which puts it in the same load class as the Osprey Atmos AG 65 at $90 less. The 65 is the headline size; the 85 and 105 L versions use the same suspension.

External-frame backpacking packs are nearly gone, and the Trekker 65 is one of the last still in production, built on an aluminium frame with a 65 L top-loading bag and a spindrift collar. Kelty rates it for 50-70 lb, matching the Asher 85 for the highest carry range in its line, and the frame holds the load off the back for airflow. At 5.31 lb it is also the heaviest pack Kelty sells.

The AC Lite is the budget entry to Deuter's Aircomfort ventilation: the same suspended mesh and spring steel frame as the Futura, in cheaper fabrics and with a smaller 2 L hydration capacity. At $110 it is the least expensive way into the suspended-mesh back that defines the brand.