The Best Caving Packs for Every Adventurer’s Needs
Caving, also called spelunking, is an adventure unlike any other. It’s thrilling, unpredictable, and can push you to your limits.
But to get the most out of it—and to stay safe—you need the right gear. Among the essentials, a solid caving pack is one of the most important tools. It holds your equipment, keeps your hands free, and ensures you’re prepared for anything.
With so many packs to choose from, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Some are built for comfort, others prioritize durability, and some aim to balance everything.
This guide breaks down the best caving packs available, each designed to meet different needs and preferences.
Quick Overview
- Best Overall: PETZL Bug Backpack
- Best Budget: Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack
- Best for Comfort: Osprey Atmos AG 65
- Best Lightweight: TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack
- Best for Gear Organization: Deuter Aircontact 65+10
- Best Waterproof: Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack
- Best for Durability: Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Backpack
Best Caving Packs by Category
1. PETZL Bug Backpack
Good for: Day-trip cavers looking for a compact, tough pack.
Best Overall
PETZL Bug Backpack
Product Highlights
- 18-liter capacity, perfect for short trips.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Built with durable, abrasion-resistant materials.
The PETZL Bug Backpack is specifically designed for caving, which makes it an excellent choice for adventurers focused on day trips or shorter expeditions.
Its compact size and lightweight build allow you to carry only what’s necessary, like snacks, tools, and safety gear, without adding unnecessary weight.
The ergonomic design ensures the pack sits comfortably on your back, even during long hours in the cave. Its abrasion-resistant fabric is perfect for navigating narrow passages and sharp terrain, giving it a long lifespan.
If you need a dependable, no-frills pack that focuses on functionality and durability, the PETZL Bug Backpack checks all the boxes.
2. Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack
Good for: Budget-conscious adventurers who need plenty of space.
Best Budget
Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack
Product Highlights
- 50-liter capacity for longer trips.
- Comes with a rain cover for added weather protection.
- Multiple compartments to keep gear organized.
The Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack is the ultimate pick for adventurers who need high capacity on a budget.
Its 50-liter capacity means you can pack for multi-day trips with ease, whether it’s extra clothing, food, or safety equipment.
The included rain cover is a thoughtful addition, offering protection from unexpected downpours or damp cave environments.
While it’s not as rugged or feature-rich as higher-end options, it’s more than capable of handling typical caving conditions.
The multiple compartments help keep your gear organized, saving you from digging around in a pinch.
For beginners or anyone who needs a spacious, cost-effective pack, the Loowoko 50L is hard to beat.
3. Osprey Atmos AG 65
Good for: Cavers who value comfort during long expeditions.
Best for Comfort
Osprey Atmos AG 65
Product Highlights
- Anti-Gravity suspension system for even weight distribution.
- Large 65-liter capacity for extended trips.
- Includes a hydration sleeve for convenience.
The Osprey Atmos AG 65 stands out for its unmatched comfort, especially on long expeditions.
The Anti-Gravity suspension system feels almost magical, as it redistributes weight so effectively that even heavy loads feel lighter. This is perfect for caving trips where you might be carrying everything from extra clothes to climbing gear.
The spacious 65-liter capacity ensures you’ll have enough room for everything you need, while the ventilated back panel prevents overheating in humid caves. It’s built to last, making it a worthwhile investment for those who often go on multi-day adventures.
Though it’s not the lightest pack, the comfort and durability it offers more than make up for the extra weight.
4. TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack
Good for: Minimalists who want something lightweight and efficient.
Best Lightweight
TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack
Product Highlights
- Small 18-liter capacity with a 2-liter hydration bladder.
- Ventilated shoulder straps for comfort.
- Lightweight but durable construction.
The TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack is ideal for cavers who value simplicity and speed. At just under 2 pounds, it’s incredibly light, allowing you to move through challenging caves without being weighed down.
The built-in 2-liter hydration bladder is a standout feature, ensuring you can stay hydrated without needing to carry extra water bottles.
While it’s not built for heavy loads, the pack’s durable construction holds up well against the bumps and scrapes of a typical cave trip.
It’s best for short, high-energy adventures where you only need the basics and want to stay agile.
5. Deuter Aircontact 65+10
Good for: Organized explorers tackling long, gear-heavy trips.
Best for Gear Organization
Deuter Aircontact 65+10
Product Highlights
- 65+10 liters of expandable storage.
- Adjustable back system for a custom fit.
- Multiple compartments for easy organization.
The Deuter Aircontact 65+10 is built for adventurers who need both space and organization. Its expandable storage lets you adapt the pack for short trips or longer expeditions, while the multiple compartments keep your gear systematically packed and easy to access.
Whether you’re carrying tools, clothes, or emergency supplies, this pack ensures you can find what you need when you need it. Its adjustable back system means it fits comfortably, no matter your size or the load you’re carrying.
With its weather-resistant materials and robust construction, it’s designed to handle the most challenging cave environments.
6. Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack
Good for: Cavers facing wet, waterlogged conditions.
Best Waterproof
Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack
Product Highlights
- 100% waterproof with a roll-top closure.
- Simple design with an interior pocket for valuables.
- Lightweight and ergonomic.
The Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack is a game-changer for caving in wet or damp environments. Its roll-top closure creates an airtight seal, keeping your gear completely dry even in the wettest caves.
The pack’s lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry for hours, while the tough materials ensure it holds up against scratches and scrapes.
Though it doesn’t offer much in the way of compartments, its simplicity is part of the appeal—less to worry about in extreme conditions.
For adventurers who prioritize keeping their gear dry above all else, this pack is a no-brainer.
7. Mystery Ranch 2 Day Backpack
Good for: Explorers needing a tough, adaptable pack.
Best for Durability
Mystery Ranch 2 Day Backpack
Product Highlights
- Rugged fabric for extreme durability.
- 27-liter capacity with MOLLE webbing for customization.
- Adjustable harness for a snug fit.
The Mystery Ranch 2 Day Backpack is built to handle the harshest conditions while keeping you prepared for anything. Made from ultra-tough 500D Cordura fabric, this pack resists tears and abrasions better than most.
Its MOLLE webbing allows you to attach extra gear, giving you flexibility to adapt the pack to your specific needs.
The compact size makes it perfect for shorter trips or when you need a streamlined setup.
Despite its smaller capacity, the ruggedness and customization options make it a standout for those tackling difficult caves.
Conclusion
The best caving pack depends on your needs, whether that’s durability, comfort, waterproofing, or organization. Each pack on this list is designed to excel in specific areas, making it easier to choose one that aligns with your adventures.
Think about your trip length, the environment you’ll be exploring, and how much gear you’ll need to carry. Once you know what matters most to you, picking the right pack becomes simple.
Have a favorite caving pack or questions about the options? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear about your underground adventures!
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