If you want to use a backpack while you are out riding, the Klim Nac Pak is a top option that comes packed full of features that both you and your snowmobile will appreciate.
I like to wear a backpack when I’m on my sled if I plan on being out on the trails for extended periods or want quick access to anything on the move. I’ve used a handful of different packs over many winters and want to share some of my favorites here.
The Nack Pak is designed with the needs of a snowmobiler in mind. We’ll look at it in more detail below, but just know that this backpack is highly functional and of great value.
You will find several awesome snowmobile backpacks here alongside a few other versatile winter packs that can be utilized on the trail.
Throw it over a shoulder, and let’s get after it!
Table of Contents
Top Snowmobile Backpacks Reviewed
You don’t need to ride with a backpack on, but if you do, you’ll want one of the top options shown below. They are all durable enough to handle the rigors of the trail and will keep whatever is inside safe and dry along the way.
1. Klim Nac Pak
- Best for: Overall
- Key features: External shovel and probe storage, comes with tool pack, waterproof, race-inspired shoulder straps, glove-friendly zippers
- Capacity: 13L
- Hydration compatible: Yes
- Fit: Adjustable straps, form-fitting
The Klim Nac Pac can do it all and comes in at the top of the list for the best snowmobile backpack around.
It has a stable and comfortable fit that will sit properly on your back while you bounce around in the snow. Race-inspired shoulder straps and integrated side straps help with fit and comfort.
The Nack Pac has a 13L capacity, which is plenty to bring along extra gear and equipment when you ride. It also comes with a 3L HydraPak so you can stay hydrated out in the cold.
The heavy-duty nylon construction makes it strong, durable, and waterproof. Glove-friendly zippers allow you to quickly access anything you need without exposing your hands and fingers to the cold.
You can utilize external compartments to store a shovel and probe, which is an excellent design with safety in mind. It also comes with a water-resistant tool pack so you can make quick repairs in the field.
Additional features included a molded back panel that makes for a comfortable ride all day long and a dedicated goggle pocket to keep those lenses safe when not in use.
The only thing I don’t like about the Nac Pac is that it doesn’t have a hip strap. I like the added stability this strap offers, and even though it still stays stable, I miss a buckle around the mid-section.
==> You can also get it on RevZilla.com or CycleGear.com.
2. Ski-Doo OEM Elevation
- Best for: Trail Backpack
- Key features: Ergonomic straps, comfortable slim fit, side attach for a shovel, easy-access pockets
- Capacity: 8L
- Hydration compatible: No
- Fit: Slim
If trail riding is your thing, the Ski-Doo OEM Elevation should be your pack.
It has a tight but comfortable fit that will stay in place and prevent slipping or bouncing as you’re doing just that on the trail. The 2-point shoulder strap system alongside an ergonomic waist strap makes this possible.
These straps also feature well-designed adjustment capabilities for a customized fit that can accommodate riders of all shapes and sizes.
The Elevation is a slim profile bag, so you’re not going to get a ton of storage capacity with only 8 liters. That’s enough to bring along the essentials but not a whole lot more.
It does have a practical side attach system to strap in place a shovel and probe quickly. And in addition to the main pockets, you’ll also get a top pocket with a soft lining for electronics and two easy-access pockets on the waist strap.
I wish it were hydration compatible, and it will be small for some people, but other than that, this pack is ready to ride.
==> You can also get it at Walmart.
3. ABS Avalanche Airbag Pack
- Best for: Avalanche Pack
- Key features: Inflation/floatation system, twin airbags, adjustable straps, lightweight, waterproof,
- Capacity: Multiple capacities available – 18L, 30L, 40L
- Hydration compatible: No
- Fit: Ergonomic fit
Avalanches can be a real concern for any rider, and the ABS Avalanche Airbag Pack is the best snowmobile backpack for avalanche safety.
It uses a well-designed and highly engineered airbag inflation system that helps you stay afloat and protected if you get caught in a slide. The twin airbags can also create an air pocket to help you breathe if you’re buried – another feature that can save your life.
This dual airbag system also gives you a backup bag in case one or the other fails. That’s another reason why this option stands above other competing airbag packs.
In addition to all of the peace of mind and safety this pack can provide, it’s also lightweight, comfortable, and built to last. It has an ergonomic fit with adjustable straps on the hips, shoulders, and chest.
It is also available in multiple sizes, so you can get a capacity that matches your needs on the trail and in the backcountry. And regardless of what size you choose, you can expect a good fit without much-added weight.
The bad news is this ABS Airbag Pack is going to cost you an arm and a leg. That’s the price you’ll need to be for a bag that can help you keep using your arms and legs, I guess.
4. USWE Pow 16L Backpack
- Best for: Backpack with Shovel
- Key features: Plenty of attachment straps, quick-access avalanche pocket, insulated shoulder straps, seven pockets
- Capacity: 16L
- Hydration compatible: Yes
- Fit: Standard
The USWE Pow 16L is another high-quality snowmobile backpack that comes in handy when you want to carry a shovel or any other safety equipment.
This is thanks to a quick access avalanche equipment pocket that will keep your emergency gear within arms reach when you need it.
It also has seven pockets and plenty of attachment straps, so you can load it up with as much as you need, wherever you roam.
The 16L capacity is large enough for an extended day in the backcountry, and it is also hydration compatible with room for a 3L bladder. It comes in a 25L option if you want even more space.
Insulated shoulder straps add comfort and warmth and also serve to keep your drink tube from freezing. This is a subtle but nice design that reflects the many functions this pack has to offer.
The Pow is on the expensive side. I think it’s worth it, but that might be a factor for some riders.
==> You can also get it on Backcountry.com or CycleGear.com.
5. Seibertron Falcon Water Repellent Summit Bag
- Best for: Budget Pick
- Key features: Affordable, heavy-duty zippers, padded shoulder strap, military-style function
- Capacity: Multiple sizes available
- Hydration compatible: Yes
- Fit: A little loose
The Seibertron Falcon Summit makes for a pretty decent budget snowmobile backpack.
This is a comfortable and functional pack that will give you plenty of carrying capacity. All-day use is made possible by padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel.
It has several compartments to separate and organize gear, while a military-style design allows for further customization if you want to expand its capabilities.
A 900D nylon construction makes the pack rugged and durable for heavy use. The downside is that this isn’t quite a winter-specific material, and this option doesn’t offer the same waterproofing as other packs.
It’s a simple and effective option that will work in a pinch. I just wouldn’t take this bag out on an extended backcountry trip and expect excellent results.
6. DaKine Heli Pro
- Best for: Multi-Use Option
- Key features: Comfortable, durable, multi-sport use, fleece-lined goggle pocket, ski and snowboard carrying capabilities
- Capacity: 20L
- Hydration compatible: Yes
- Fit: Slim
If you want a backpack that can do a little bit of everything, the DaKine Heli Pro comes highly recommended.
This is one of my favorite all-around backpacks, and I’ve used it for snowmobiling, skiing, snowboarding, traveling, camping, and just about any other sort of situation you’d need a bag.
The versatility holds up in the snow or around town and makes the bag useful in many different situations. Its 20L size is my preferred capacity when I’m out in the snow and gives you enough room to bring extra gear and supplies.
Even though it’s a slim profile pack, it has room enough for a water bladder. It also comes with an effective strap system to stow a shovel, skis, or snowboard on the sides.
Other features include a fleece-lined goggle pocket to keep your lenses or smartphone safe and secure alongside a laptop compartment when you want to use it in non-snow situations.
The Heli Pro lacks a bit in terms of having extra pockets and straps. If you want that type of lashing ability or additional organization, you’ll be disappointed.
==> You can also get it on Backcountry.com or Walmart.
7. Klim Tek Pak
- Best for: Slim Profile Option
- Key features: Durable, comfortable, DWR treated, excess strap management, hidden pocket, breathable
- Capacity: 21L
- Hydration compatible: Yes
- Fit: Slim
The Klim Tek Pak is an awesome slim-fit snowmobile backpack. It’s similar to the Nac Pac in design and function but feels and fits a little smaller.
This pack will give you a precise fit with fully adjustable straps that create customizable comfort. It also has an excess strap management system that will limit flapping when you’re going fast.
It’s also very breathable, so you can use it in warmer weather and not worry about having a sweaty back. A chest protector and hidden pocket are a few of the many additional features of this solid bag.
Similar to the Klim bags, the Tek Pak doesn’t have a waist strap. If you’re like me, that will be noticeable straight away.
It’s also an expensive option and designed more for motorcycles than snowmobiles. I think that helps keep the profile down, but it’s also not entirely as winter-focused as you might be looking for.
==> You can also get it on RevZilla.com or CycleGear.com.
What to Look for in a Snowmobile Backpack
The following factors are good to think about and look into when buying a snowmobile backpack.
Capacity
I usually choose a backpack initially based on its capacity. This is a personal preference and will depend on how much gear, equipment, food, or anything else you want to bring with you when you ride. I actually have a few different sizes for short or long rides.
Most backpack capacities are listed in liters. I like a 20L size for the average day on the trail. For an extended trip, you will probably want a larger pack of maybe 30-40L. Smaller sizes are out there as well.
Comfort
Comfort is another important consideration with any pack. You will be wearing this backpack for hours when you are on the sled, and you never want an uncomfortable bag to weigh you down and ruin your day.
I like to look for padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel. This provides additional softness on the areas that hold most of the weight of a pack. Also, make sure that the straps are adjustable because proper fit is essential with comfort in mind.
Straps and Pockets
I like to use a backpack that has plenty of straps and pockets. This will make it more versatile and allow you to carry extra equipment such as safety gear, camping supplies, or anything else. Good side pockets with plenty of room and a few straps on the back are nice to have.
Along with this, holes or loops that give you the ability to strap down extras can come in handy. I’ve used loops to bring back anything from animal skulls I found on the trail to broken snowmobile parts. It’s another aspect that will increase versatility.
Hydration Compatible
I always choose a backpack that has a dedicated hydration compartment. I love to stay hydrated when I’m involved with any activity, and a bladder pocket is a prevalent feature of most modern packs. It can allow you to take a sip without easing off the throttle.
Snowmobile Backpack FAQs
Here are some quick answers to a few common questions about snowmobile backpacks.
What is the best waterproof backpack?
Just about any high-quality winter use backpack is going to be fully waterproof. The best option here would be the Klim Nac Pak. If you want to make sure an option you choose is waterproof, look for GORE-TEX materials of a waterproof rating.
What should I pack in my snowmobile backpack?
This can vary from rider to rider. I would bring extra water and food alongside safety equipment like a shovel, avalanche beacon, and probe. I like to also have a first aid kit, some extra layers, and my favorite snacks along as well.
What gear do I need for snowmobiling?
You don’t need a backpack for snowmobiling, but it can come in very handy. I would suggest a helmet, bibs or pants, a jacket, gloves, and goggles for the essentials. From there, you need to layer appropriately for your conditions. And you’ll definitely need a machine!
How dangerous is snowmobiling?
Just like any other winter sport, snowmobiling has its risks. But if you are well prepared, educate yourself, and ride safely, you can reduce the dangers. You should always wear a helmet and bring avalanche safety gear as injuries and snow slides are two of the biggest risks.
My Verdict
The Klim Nac Pak is the best snowmobile backpack that I’ve used. It’s a very comfortable pack with plenty of room to store all the gear I like to bring on the trail. It also makes for a great value because it’s tough, durable, and will last for years on the trail.
A snowmobile backpack is a functional item that you don’t always need with you when you ride. While I like to have a pack with me most days, I don’t always use one. Any of the options you find here will meet the needs of anyone on the trail.
About Chaz Wyland