Convenience
Kyjen, Quick Release
Kyjen's Quick Release dog backpack is one of the handiest travel inventions you'll come across. Not only does this saddlebag pack have multiple adjustment points for a perfect fit, the pack is independently attached to the harness, allowing you to remove it without unbuckling the harness.
Wenaha, Explorer II
For camping and overnight trips, the Explorer II is your best bet. Its large side pockets expand to comfortably carry bulkier gear. The Explorer II's well-padded saddle and wide-opening top flaps make extended trips much more convenient.
Durability
Wolf Packs, Banzai
The Banzai is a little higher on the price scale, but you definitely get the quality you pay for. This tough pack fits snugly to your dog, is made of durable, waterproof Kevlar and has brush guards to give you and your pooch a hike free of snags.
Ruff Wear, Palisades
This pack is the cream of the crop for dog backpacks. Its plush mesh saddle, abundance of pockets and durable material are enough to make it one of the best of the best, but the integrated hydration system with spigot puts the Palisades pack over the top.
Under $50
Kelty, Chuckwagon
This classic saddlebag style pack is a good product at a good price. For an under-$50 dog backpack, the Chuckwagon has a surprising amount of useful features, including a removable bear bell. The pack weighs less than a pound, sports padded buckles and comes equipped with reflective tape for night or urban travel.
Cool Paws, Day Trekker
This nifty little dog pack is made for day hikes and shorter outings with your dog. The attachment easily and sturdily clips onto an existing harness. The packs attach separately to the attachment, allowing you to easily remove them. It is a perfect pack for carrying the bare necessities.