In the world of backpacks, it isn’t easy to find a balance between quality and price.
You can either get a pack that will last for years but cost you an arm and a leg. Or you’ll end up with something that is cheap but won’t last as long.
We gave TETON Sports Scout 3400 the Best Bargain Basement Backpack award, even though it costs less than half of the next cheapest pack.
If you want a helpful bag at the lowest possible price, this is the option to go with. We took this backpack on several overnight adventures. While we didn’t care for things about it, the only thing that matters is its functionality.
The Teton Sports Scout 3400 is one of the best budget backpacks on the market. It’s durable, functional, and gets the job done without costing too much money. However, it does come with severe drawbacks compared to other bags we’ve reviewed, so if you’re looking for a pack that will last, this is the one for you.
Specs
- Capacity: 55 Liters
- Torso Length Adjustment: 15″ – 19.5″ (38 – 49.5 cm)
- Pack Weight : 4.5 lbs (2 kg)
- Sleeping Bag Compartment Size: 14” x 8” x 8” (35.5 x 20 x 20 cm)
- Dimensions (filled): 30″ x 17″ x 12″ (76.2 x 43 x 30.5 cm)
Benefits
- The harness is adjustable and fits well with it
- It has a generous amount of padding
- thick straps and hip belt
- The rain cover is integrated
- Robust
- External hydration
Drawbacks
- Heavyweight
- Zippers are challenging to use
Features and Ease of Use
The main compartment on this backpack is accessed through the back panel. That means that you will need to remove your pack to access it, which can be frustrating when trying to find something quickly and ensure that no items are falling out of your bag onto the ground whenever you open up the front.
While not completely waterproof, this pack includes a rain cover which is an excellent inclusion at this price point.
The Scout 3400 has very thick shoulder straps and a hip belt that do not move while you’re wearing the pack. Still, they also tend to dig into your shoulders during longer hikes with heavier loads, so be prepared for some discomfort on long trips. It’s also a little bit difficult to tighten and loosen the shoulder straps because of how thick they are.
Suspension and Comfort
This bag has the thickest shoulder straps and hip belts out of all budget backpacks we reviewed. However, that didn’t stop them from digging into our shoulders during long hikes with a full load as well as sliding down now and again.
Pack Accessibility
Pockets are abundant on this pack to make it easier for you to organize and find your belongings. The hip belt pockets are deep and large enough to fit the biggest smartphones on the market. Still, it’s hard for us not to recommend a bag with zippered access like our top pick or runner-up, which will keep you from dropping yours when climbing over rocks.
Durability
The Scout 3400 is one of the most durable budget backpacks we reviewed. The zippers and stitching are heavy-duty, even if they’re a bit difficult to use at times.
This one is best for backpackers who want one of the most functional packs on the market without sacrificing too much money to get it. While there are some serious drawbacks such as weight, difficulty with zippers, and a poorly designed rain cover, the Scout 3400 is an excellent choice for those on a strict budget.
Weight
This pack is among the most weighty in our budget backpack review, weighing 4.5 pounds. It’s a little bit hefty for such a tiny bag. The rain cover for the Scout 3400 isn’t bulky, but it does not come with a carrying strap. Because the cost of the pack is so low, it’s understandable that the weight to size ratio is better. Still, if you’re searching for the lightest budget backpack accessible, this probably isn’t the pack for you.
Who it's Best For
The Teton Sports Scout 3400 is best for backpackers who want one of the most functional packs on the market without sacrificing too much money to get it. While there are some serious drawbacks such as weight, difficulty with zippers, and a poorly designed rain cover, the Scout 3400 is an excellent choice for those on a strict budget.
How To Use This Backpack?
The Teton Sports Scout 3400 is a bigger-sized 55L pack, which is larger than the usual size.
- Make sure you pack it the right way so that you may enjoy maximum comfort.
- To keep the weight of all your items and food under control, fill all pockets, compartments, and compression straps.
Pro Tip: Place your large items in one of the external storage places. Put your tent in the side or front straps if you have one. Place your mat in the bottom gear loops.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a backpack that’s durable, functional, and the cheapest option on the market, this is your best bet. It has some flaws, but it will be worth every penny if you can get past them. Consider TETON Sports Scout 3400 when shopping for backpacks in 2022!
FAQs
Is Teton sports a good brand?
Teton Sports is a well-known company that makes camping, hiking, and other outdoor gear. They’re known for their affordable products, which are made with quality materials.
Is this backpack waterproof?
No, it’s not entirely waterproof but does include a rain cover to keep your belongings dry when you get caught in the rain on your hike.
Related Article: How To Waterproof A Backpack
How many liters is a Teton scout 3400?
The scout 3400 is a 55 Liters pack.
Are Teton Sports backpacks any good?
Teton Sports makes some of the most affordable gear for outdoor activities. Their known best for their budget backpacks – something that’s perfect if you’re on a tight budget but want to get outside and explore your surroundings with all your essentials packed up securely in one place.
Is this pack good for backpacking?
The Scout 3400 is not explicitly designed as a backpack. Still, it would work great if you wanted to go hiking or overnight camping with all your essentials packed away securely in one place.
Where are Teton Sports backpacks manufactured?
They’re a multinational with established manufacturing connections in Asia, including China, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Pakistan.