Decathlon Quechua Mountain Hiking Backpack 20L – MH100 £25

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Incredible price, ample features, good hipbelt

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Cheap materials, not the comfiest, short back length

The price is utterly bonkers. At only £25, this pack is surprisingly competent and comfy. Of course, it’s far from the most premium product out there, but it does the basics well. For bargain hunters or new hillwalkers, it’s a money-saving revelation.

Let’s start with the negatives. The materials and components are on the cheaper end of the scale, there are no load-lifter straps, the short 44cm back length won’t suit taller hikers, ventilation isn’t the best, and the thick padding in the back panel’s corners give an odd carrying experience.

But there are loads of positives. The padded hipbelt is chunky and comfy with a good zippered pocket, the shoulder straps work fine, and the main compartment is spacious with a zippered valuables pocket and hydration bladder sleeve. The back system has good rigidity thanks to a central metal rod in the frame, and we got used to the back-panel and soon found it comfy. You also get an external lid pocket, webbing straps, and a zipper for quick access to the bottom of the pack.

All this for £25 is quite remarkable.

■ Weight 814g ■ Volume 20 litres ■ Back sizes One size ■ Versions n/a ■ Main fabric 100% polyester with PU coating