Climbing requires a variety of specialized equipment, and bags are no exception. Climbers use different types of bags depending on the nature of their climb and the amount of gear they need to carry. Day packs are small, lightweight bags that are ideal for shorter climbs or day hikes. Multi-day packs are larger and more durable, designed to carry food, water, and camping gear for longer trips. Haul bags are used for big wall climbing and can carry heavy loads of equipment. Rope bags, as the name suggests, are designed to hold climbing ropes and keep them organized during transport. Other specialty designs include summit packs, which are lightweight and minimalistic, and technical packs, which are designed to carry technical climbing equipment such as ice axes and crampons. With so many different types of bags available, climbers can choose the one that best suits their needs and the type of climbing they plan to do.
Table of Contents
1. Summit Packs (<30L)
Choosing a summit pack is a critical decision for any climber who wants to travel light and fast on the mountain or rock face. Summit packs are designed with a streamlined and minimalist approach to carry only the essential equipment required to reach the summit or complete the climb. The main focus of the pack is on weight reduction, as every extra ounce can slow the climber down and decrease their efficiency. A good summit pack will have a capacity of 20-35 liters, which is enough to carry essential items such as extra layers, food, water, and other gear, without weighing the climber down. This pack type is ideal for final pushes on big mountains, where speed and efficiency are crucial to success, as well as for single-day multi-pitch rock climbs that require quick and easy access to gear without the need for multiple days of supplies. Overall, the right summit pack can make a significant difference in the success and enjoyment of any climb.
Tarak 20L Del Dia Pack
 5/5
- Manufacturer: Cotopaxi
- Weight: 1lb 4oz
A small “no frills” bag that has eliminated extra buckles and straps to streamline your push to the summit. The bright colors are pretty cool too.
Blitz 20L Pack
 4.5/5
- Manufacturer: Black Diamond
- Weight: 2lbs 5oz
This pack adds some weight over the previous selection, but it makes up for it with its super durable ripstop material.
Blitz 15L Pack
 4/5
- Manufacturer: Black Diamond
- Weight: 14.2oz
This is the smaller sibling of the previous option. With the least amount of storage room, the benefits come with weight and price.
2. Day Packs (30-40L)
When it comes to rock climbing, choosing the right day pack is essential for comfort and practicality. Unlike a summit pack, which is designed to be as lightweight and streamlined as possible, a day pack is larger and can hold enough equipment to last for an entire day on the rock face or at the crag. This means that extreme weight rationing is not required, and the climber can carry additional items such as extra water, food, and layers. A good day pack for rock climbing should have a capacity of between 30-40 liters, with multiple compartments to keep gear organized and easily accessible. It should also have comfortable shoulder straps and a sturdy waist belt for even weight distribution and to prevent the pack from shifting while climbing. Overall, choosing the right day pack is crucial for a successful and comfortable day of rock climbing. If you are seeking a general bag for multiple purposes, a day pack is likely your best option.
Cragsmith 32L Pack
 4.5/5
- Manufacturer: Patagonia
- Best For Beginners
This day pack is uber comfortable, made from recycled materials, and has two easy entries to access your equipment.
Crag 40L Pack
 4/5
- Manufacturer: Black Diamond
- Weight: 2lbs 1oz.
If you carry a lot of equipment, this top access pack is for you. It’s easy bucket design has ample room for everything you need for one day but at the expense of organizational compartments.
Scrambler 35L Pack
 4/5
- Manufacturer: Mountain Hardware
- Weight: 2lbs 10oz
A day pack with ample room and all the bells and whistles! This bag is waterproof, has many storage compartments, and everything else you might want. But having everything comes with a higher price tag.
3. Multi Day Pack (>40L)
A multi-day pack, also known as an expedition pack, is designed to carry everything needed for extended trips into the backcountry, such as camping, hiking, or mountaineering. These packs are larger than day packs or summit packs, usually with a capacity of 50-80 liters or more, and have numerous compartments to help organize gear and supplies. When choosing a multi-day pack, it is important to consider the size of the pack and the specific needs of the trip, such as the length of the trip, weather conditions, and the type of gear required. Comfort is also important, so it is essential to choose a pack with a well-padded waist belt and shoulder straps, as well as an adjustable frame to fit the wearer’s body. Other features to consider include hydration compatibility, external attachment points for gear, and durability to withstand the rigors of extended use. Overall, choosing the right multi-day pack is crucial for any backcountry adventure to ensure comfort, organization, and efficiency in carrying gear and supplies.
AMG 75L Pack
 5/5
- Manufacturer: Mountain Hardware
- Weight: 4lbs 12oz
With ample room and All-Weather protection, this is the perfect multiway pack for your mountaineering adventure.
Zealot 45L Pack
 4.5/5
- Manufacturer: Osprey
- Weight: 3lbs 15oz
This pack is great for minimalistic climbing trips. With features that easily accommodate climbing gear and easy access compartments, this bag is a good choice when the amount of equipment is minimal.
Mission 75L Pack
 4/5
- Manufacturer: Black Diamond
- Weight: 4lbs 4oz
This bag is a great option for cold weather expeditions. It includes custom straps for your ice axes and crampons along with a comfortable design.
4. Rope Bags
A rope bag is an essential tool that helps to protect your climbing rope from dirt, grime, and other elements that can wear down your equipment and the hardware on the wall. A quality rope bag not only keeps your rope clean and tangle-free but also makes it easier to carry and transport. When choosing a rope bag, consider factors such as price, durability, and portability. With the right rope bag, you can ensure that your climbing rope stays in excellent condition for many climbs to come.
Full Rope Burrito Rope Bag
 5/5
- Manufacturer: Black Diamond
- Best In Functionality
A simple and classic design. It’s not the most durable but it’s compact enough to fit in a backpack but also has handles for carrying.
Drone Rope Bag
 4/5
- Manufacturer: Edelrid
- Best In Durability
This rope bag is my choice for durability. If you want a crag rope bag that will withstand time at a slightly higher expense, choose this one.
Rope Tarp
 4/5
- Manufacturer: Metolius
- Best in Simplicity
If you’re looking for the most affordable option or plan to always slip your rope bag into a larger bag, this is the best option for you.
While a rope bag is an essential tool for climbers, there are many other types of climbing bags available to suit different needs and goals. Haul bags, for example, are designed for carrying large amounts of gear and are commonly used for big wall climbing. Hybrid packs combine the features of a backpack and a climbing pack, making them ideal for multi-pitch climbs. Other types of climbing bags include boulder pads, which provide cushioning for boulderers, and crag packs, which are designed for carrying all the gear needed for a day of sport climbing. The joy of climbing is not only in the physical challenge but also in researching and finding the perfect tools to suit our goals. With a range of climbing bags available, climbers can choose the one that best meets their needs and enhances their climbing experience.
