Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40 – The Rugged Backpack That Does It All

Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40 hiking backpack. The name alone hints at something smart and built with purpose—and that’s exactly what it delivers.

If you’ve ever hiked deep into the woods only to realize your pack couldn’t handle the load, you know how frustrating that is. That was me—too many times. I’ve always appreciated gear that doesn’t just talk tough but actually is tough. That was my reaction to the Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40. This pack delivers on all fronts. It is not matter if you’re heading out for a multi-day hike, backcountry birding expedition, or planning to set up a basecamp far off the grid. Designed originally for hunters needing to carry heavy game loads, the Pop Up 40 has proven itself as a go-to for serious outdoor adventurers, from backcountry explorers to wildlife photographers. It is available in available in Foliage or Coyote colors.

What immediately stood out to me is how Mystery Ranch managed to build such a durable, load-bearing system into something that still looks like a streamlined daypack. This isn’t a clunky expedition pack that overwhelms you. Instead, it’s smart, versatile, and incredibly tough.

And here’s the kicker: this premium pack is currently on sale.

What Makes the Pop Up 40 Special?

At first glance, the Pop Up 40 might look like your average large daypack—but looks can be deceiving. Beneath its clean silhouette lies an ingenious telescoping frame system that can transform this sleek pack into a serious load-hauling powerhouse. With a quick adjustment, the internal frame literally “pops up,” providing added lift and support for heavy gear. It’s a feature originally designed for hunters needing to carry out game meat, but it’s just as useful for backcountry adventurers, wildlife photographers, and anyone else carrying awkward or heavy loads.

Whether you’re lugging a full camera setup with a long lens, packing out your basecamp gear, or transporting a quartered elk (if you’re into that), the Pop Up 40 handles it with ease. The true magic, however, is in its Overload feature. This creates a space between the frame and the pack body where you can securely sandwich heavy or oddly shaped gear. You get the weight supported close to your body, maintaining balance and control—even when hiking across rough terrain.

Comfort That Moves With You

A strong frame is only half the equation—the real test comes when the pack is fully loaded and you’re miles from the trailhead. That’s where the Pop Up 40 shines. Its adjustable harness system is designed to dial in the perfect fit to your unique torso length, ensuring the load rides exactly where it should. The padding throughout the shoulder straps and waistbelt is just right—plush enough for long days, yet firm enough to prevent sagging under weight.

And thanks to Mystery Ranch’s legendary load distribution design, you can carry up to 35+ kg (77+ lbs) without feeling like you’re dragging a boulder behind you. Side compression straps keep everything snug, while the removable lid helps streamline your gear when needed. The pack stays remarkably stable even when you’re climbing, side-hilling, or navigating scree. Plus, stretch side pockets keep water bottles, trekking poles, or snacks within easy reach—so you don’t have to stop every time you need something.

Details That Matter in the Field

When you’re far from home, it’s the little things that make a big difference. The Pop Up 40 is loaded with smart, field-tested features that make every trip easier and more efficient.

• Top-loading access and full-length side zippers mean you don’t have to unload everything just to reach that one piece of gear at the bottom.
• A drawcord shroud at the top keeps dust, debris, and moisture out—great when you’re traveling through brush, rain, or snow.
• Dual stretch side pockets easily hold large water bottles, tripod legs, or trekking poles without sagging or slipping.
• An integrated ¼”-20 optics thumbscrew lets you mount a spotting scope or camera directly to the frame—ideal for birders or hunters.
• Front and bottom compression straps are perfect for lashing on bulky items like sleeping pads, tarps, or rain jackets.

With 40 liters of volume, the Pop Up 40 hits the ideal middle ground: plenty of space for multi-day trips, yet compact and comfortable enough for long day hikes or fastpacking weekends.

Tough Gear, Built to Last

The Pop Up 40 isn’t just versatile—it’s built like a tank. Constructed from 330D Lite Plus CORDURA®, this pack resists abrasions and tears while keeping weight manageable. Every zipper is a genuine YKK®, known for reliability even when caked with dust or strained by heavy loads. The SJ Autolock buckles are no-nonsense and won’t loosen on the trail, giving you peace of mind that your load stays secure.

This pack is meant to be put to the test. Whether you’re dragging it through rocky canyons, hoisting it in and out of boats, or stashing it in overhead bins during travel, it’s ready. Best of all, Mystery Ranch offers a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty, so you’re covered for the long haul.

Specifications Table For The Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40 Backpack

Here’s a specifications table for the Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40 backpack, summarizing the key technical details in a clear and easy-to-read format:

Pros and Cons For The Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40 Backpack

Pros

• Telescoping frame with Overload feature
  Transforms into a capable load-hauling system for heavy or awkward items.
• Adjustable harness system
  Allows for a perfect fit tailored to your torso length, enhancing comfort on long treks.
• Superb load distribution
  Carries up to 35+ kg (77+ lbs) while remaining stable and balanced—even on uneven terrain.
• Versatile access points
  Top-loading and full side-zip access make gear retrieval fast and frustration-free.
• Field-friendly features
  Integrated optics thumbscrew, stretch pockets, and compression straps are ideal for photographers, hunters, and adventurers.
• Durable materials
  Built with abrasion-resistant 330D Lite Plus CORDURA® and sturdy YKK® zippers.
• Lifetime warranty
  Backed by Mystery Ranch’s reputation for quality and long-term support.
• Compact profile
  Doesn’t look bulky despite its capacity and rugged design—great for travel or day-to-day versatility.

Cons

• Pricey compared to standard daypacks
  Premium build and features come with a higher cost.
• Heavier than minimalist packs
  The internal frame and robust construction add extra weight even when empty.
• No built-in rain cover
  You’ll need to purchase one separately for wet-weather protection.

A Brand With Purpose

Mystery Ranch doesn’t just build packs—they build tools for some of the most demanding jobs and environments on Earth. Their gear is used by military personnel, wildland firefighters, search-and-rescue teams, and high-altitude climbers—people who depend on their equipment to survive and succeed.

The brand’s focus on purpose-driven design extends to conservation work too. Mystery Ranch is a longtime partner of organizations like the Wild Sheep Foundation, helping protect the wild places where their packs are used. Their approach is simple: create gear that performs under pressure, supports the planet, and lasts for years—not seasons.

Final Thought on Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40

There’s gear you buy for comfort. There’s gear you buy for durability. Rarely do those two meet. The Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40 meets you at that crossroads—and then carries your stuff the rest of the way.

I’m all about gear that earns its keep, and the Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40 absolutely does. It’s smart, strong, and built to adapt—just like the folks who use it. Whether you’re scouting remote trails for rare birds or carrying your basecamp into the wild, this pack won’t let you down. It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be. It just works. And when you’re out in the elements, that’s exactly what matters. If you’re tired of flimsy packs that cave under pressure, this one won’t let you down.

It’s not the lightest or cheapest pack on the market, but it wasn’t built to be. The Pop Up 40 is a premium choice for those who demand durability, comfort, and real-world performance. And with its lifetime warranty and reputation for reliability, it’s an investment that will pay off on every adventure.

Price, Discounts, and Where to Get It

Right now, the Pop Up 40 is available in Foliage or Coyote colors for $334 (£266.95), down from $556 (£444.95).

And here’s a bonus: Use code EXTRA15 to get an extra 15% off. That’s a solid deal on a premium-grade backpack built to last a lifetime. Plus, if you’re in the UK or EU, enjoy free returns and no customs fees. WildBounds also offers free shipping in the UK and a price match guarantee.

Want to explore more rugged, field-tested gear like this? Check out GoToBirding.com for more backcountry-ready recommendations.