The Backpacker
Information about The Backpacker
Opening hours
- sunday: 12h-17h
- monday: 10h-19h
- tuesday: 10h-19h
- wednesday: 10h-19h
- thursday: 10h-19h
- friday: 10h-19h
- saturday: 9h-18h
The Backpacker has been outfitting Louisiana with the best gear, apparel and personalized customer service for over 45 years. Whether you're planning a backpacking trip, camping under the stars, or hitting the slopes, we have the gear and expertise to help you make the most of your adventure. We offer a variety of services, including booking your next ski trip adventure, product demonstrations, packing checklists, and expert advice. So whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just getting started, come on in to The Backpacker and let us help you love your adventure! Shop from our selection of popular outdoor brands, including Vuori, On, HOKA, Altra, The North Face, Patagonia, Osprey, Arc’teryx, Cotopaxi, Duck Head, Free Fly, Goodr and more!
Our comment from TraTraTravel about The Backpacker:
The Backpacker is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Mandeville, offering a wide range of products suited for hikers, campers, and water sports. Customers have praised the store's excellent selection of quality brands and knowledgeable staff who are always willing to help. Many visitors highlight the exceptional service provided by specific employees like Brian and Mahkai, noting their expertise and friendly demeanor.
Positive experiences include:
- Helpful and attentive staff who provide personalized recommendations.
- A clean and organized store layout with a great variety of items.
- Fair prices and recommendations that meet customers' specific needs.
However, some customers have reported challenges with the store's return policy, specifically regarding the requirement to keep original packaging for shoe returns. This has left a few shoppers feeling frustrated.
Overall, The Backpacker is well-loved for its welcoming atmosphere and great product offerings, making it a must-visit for anyone in need of outdoor gear.
The Backpacker: Reviews
Fantastic experience: Great selection of products. Perfect for hikers, campers, backpackers, and water sports. There is a nice selection of water proof gear, too.
Negative experience: FYI for those of you who shop at the Backpacker in Mandeville and I'm sure the other stores as well. If you purchase shoes from their store and want to return them, you need to have the original box that they came in with you. I just tried to return a $200+ pair of shoes that were received for Christmas and the box was thrown away much like all the boxes we opened. They refused to take them back stating store policy. Its beyond me why a company, in this day and age, would sacrifice future sales (at least from this customer) because of a box. Especially when there is another store in the area that sells the same merchandise. Be careful.
Fantastic experience: At the Mandeville location, if you need a backpack > 100% talk to Brian. Very knowledgeable, asks the right questions to help a person figure out which bag (with several bag choices) is the best bag to meet their needs, and he measures for an accurate fit. He even admitted that backpacks are his passion! He's excellent!
Fantastic experience: This store is much needed on the Northshore! Recently went for the first time looking for travel backpacks and Grant was so helpful. He took time to really help us decide on the best choice. He was so helpful and polite! Great brands in the store and prices weren’t outrageous.
Fantastic experience: I love this store! Clean and organized. Most of all the people that work there seem to enjoy what they do. I needed help to find something and Mahkai saw me looking around and came to help me before I asked. After he helped me find what I needed, he didn’t walk away. He asked me what else I needed. Mahkai is friendly and attentive. I appreciate employees that make you feel welcome.
Fantastic experience: Nice brands, organized, and Mahkai was super helpful.
Fantastic experience: This was my first time at The Backpacker, and they exceeded all my expectations! Mahkai was incredibly helpful and took the time to find me several great options. I’ll definitely be returning for all my future athleisure needs!
Fantastic experience: Not from Mandeville, but was in town and wanted to walk the trace, so I decided to stop by this place last Thursday to pick up some gear. The salesman, MaKai, helped me pick out a couple items that would be good for the walk. If you come to this shop definitely request to see if he can help you seems to know all his stuff.
Fantastic experience: Went in a couple days ago for a graduation gift and mahkai helped me out. Very knowledgeable and very professional!
Fantastic experience: I love going to the backpacker to pick up new sunglasses they carry brands that are quality but don’t break the bank. Every time I go I always ask for brian as he’s very knowledgeable on any questions I have about any of their products
Fantastic experience: Really nice store that's well organized! I went in with certain brands in mind, but Brian was SUPER helpful and directed me to a variety of products/alternatives. I left a happy customer- would definitely recommend and be sure to ask for Brian!
Fantastic experience: Enjoyed my visit with Mahkai today. He was attentive and kind!
Fantastic experience: This place is awesome! The customer service was top tier. If you need help definitely ask for Mahkai! He was so knowledgeable and helpful. Will be coming here more often.
Fantastic experience: I am writing to commend one of your employees, Brian, for the exceptional service I received when I visited your store. I was looking for a pair of sunglasses and a headlamp that would suit both my work needs and everyday use. Brian greeted me promptly and was incredibly patient as he helped me find exactly what I needed. He took the time to understand my requirements, ensuring the sunglasses were suitable for my line of work and the headlamp was appropriate for use around water and for general activities. Brian's assistance went above and beyond what I typically expect when shopping. His attentiveness and willingness to help made my shopping experience truly outstanding. Thank you for having such dedicated and helpful employees like Brian.
Fantastic experience: Had a great experience buying shoes. Brian Tran is very knowledgeable and professional. I’ll definitely come back again.
Fantastic experience: Brian was helpful in finding my husband a great pair of shoes. He was kind and professional!
Fantastic experience: Mahkai was extremely helpful throughout my whole time shopping. Would definitely suggest him!
Fantastic experience: Great job by Brian! Found what I needed and found it quickly
Fantastic experience: Brian is always a huge help. Very knowledgeable and professional. He's got that good energy and is a huge asset to the Backpacker company.
Fantastic experience: This place is the best! Going on a camping trip with my boyfriend and Mahkai knew just how to help us. He helped us both find the perfect shoes for hiking. 10/10 recommend !
Fantastic experience: I had a great experience at this location thanks to Mahkai. He helped me find the perfect pair of shoes and was super helpful throughout the process. His friendly service really stood out. If you need any gear, definitely ask for Mahkai!
Fantastic experience: I had a great experience at The Backpacker! Mahkai was super helpful and knowledgeable—he made it easy to find exactly what I needed. Definitely recommend stopping by if you're looking for quality shoes and great customer service.
Fantastic experience: Go in and see Brian, he is knowledgeable, friendly, willing to help in any way, this is one cool store for your outdoor activities
Fantastic experience: I love this place!! Brian was very helpful !!
Fantastic experience: I love shopping at this location. They have a good variety of items and brands. They have a great staff, especially Mahkai! He is very knowledgeable and super helpful.
Fantastic experience: Brian is always so helpful! I have so many questions about products and he always explains everything and ensures that I am happy with my purchases. Thank you
Fantastic experience: The backpacker has everything you need! I went in honestly not knowing what to get for my upcoming trip, but mahkai helped me so much and made sure I had everything I needed!!
Fantastic experience: This place is super nice and has everything you need for any kind of outdoor activities. Every outdoor brand, equipment, supplies, clothes, shoes, they have it all! Mahkai was a super big help. Going on a few camping trips soon and he helped me make sure I had everything I needed. Definitely coming here from now on instead of academy.
Fantastic experience: Mahkai was such a help today on my trip! I was looking for some comfortable shoes and he pointed me in the right direction!
Fantastic experience: Brian Tran was the best. He helped me properly fit my new HOKAs. He personally felt my toes to make sure my toes were in the correct placement so I don’t have blisters while my strenuous hikes through all his recommended trails. Very knowledgeable in both the stores products and also in louisianas trails and state parks. Will recommend anytime.
Fantastic experience: Beautiful store, friendly atmosphere, Brian assisted me and helped me out with all my questions, he was very helpful and friendly, highly recommend, ask for him, he will help you out
Fantastic experience: Great store! Killer selections, personable team and convenient location! BRIAN TRAN IS THE MAN!
Fantastic experience: Mahkai was extremely friendly, professional and knowledgeable about the products he sells.
Fantastic experience: Mahkai was very kind and patient in giving me information about an upcoming hiking trip!
Fantastic experience: Makhai was incredibly sweet and polite during my visit. He made sure to take great care of me and find me exactly what I needed!
Fantastic experience: I contacted the store a while ago looking for a travel backpack and Brian was super helpful. He took his time to figure out exactly what I needed and he was incredibly knowledgeable about the product he was selling. I’m very happy with my purchase and the help I received.
Fantastic experience: Great place in Mandeville for outdoor gear with great service. Maddux was a big help in his assist with my purchase of my favorite running shoes.
Fantastic experience: Mahkai is very professional and knowledgeable about shoes!! He helped me find the most perfect pair for work. I will be back!!! 10/10 recommend him as your consultant! Ask for him when you go there!
Fantastic experience: Favorite store on the Northshore! Maddux is so helpful and very passionate about his job:)
Fantastic experience: Mahkai was most helpful as always!
Positive experience: Beautiful store and laid out well but it’s too fancy and they carry the wrong stuff for extreme adventure sports . The Old Navy of outdoors activities if you will, meh
Fantastic experience: Brian always takes the extra mile to make sure that I get taken care of. Northshore Backpacker needs to makes this guy manager!
Fantastic experience: Brian helped me out & he was awesome!!! He was so patient to help figure out the best tennis shoes for my feet! I’m so happy with my experience! Go see Brian!!! I’m 100% satisfied!!!
Fantastic experience: Love this store! They have the best brands and Brian is always so helpful!
Fantastic experience: I went into the backpacker to get my friend a gift and Brian was a huge help when deciding what to get. Definitely suggest visiting The Backpacker in Mandeville !!
Fantastic experience: Absolutely loved Brian's advice and help! He sold us half the store.
Fantastic experience: Brian was awesome with helping us today! Super impressed and would recommend him! Go see him!
Fantastic experience: Brian is very personable and helpful.
Fantastic experience: When you buy 3 pairs of shoes in one day you know their team is super helpful! Brian was so knowledgeable about shoes.
Fantastic experience: The backpacker in mandeville is super nice and kept up! The staff is really nice and easy to talk to. Mahkai was extremely helpful and supportive in helping me find a new pair of shoes. He brought me various pairs based on what I said I was looking for and helped me evaluate each to find the perfect fit! Definitely will be returning for my future athletic wear purchases.
Fantastic experience: Went in yesterday to find a gift and Mahkai helped me out! He was very kind and patient!
Fantastic experience: The gentleman that waited on me was so friendly and helpful. He even wrapped my purchase for me. I was very impressed.
Fantastic experience: Best deals around and the customer service is top notch. Mahkai and Brian were extremely helpful in picking out the best birthday.
Fantastic experience: Mahkai helped me out today with a pair of shorts my trip. He was very polite and professional!
Fantastic experience: Brian Tran over there is a true gentleman and will bend over backwards to help you out. He even let me try on his own howler bro’s shirt to make sure it fits before ordering one. Last I was there he worked with me to find the perfect pair of blundstones. What a guy! And an awesome moustache!
Fantastic experience: I went in wanting a nice rain jacket that was lightweight but breathable for fishing when it’s hot. The first person I saw was Brian and I told him what I was looking for and he lead me straight to the best options and was very knowledgeable about the products.
Fantastic experience: The Backpacker has great selections and the best brands. Brian is super helpful, outgoing, and a killer sales person. Ask for him anytime you visit
Fantastic experience: Mahkai really helped me find shoes that were comfortable for every day life!
Fantastic experience: Our salespersons( Brian) and Mikah at The backpacker were just very kind and very helpful. They helped my friend and I tremendously in our search for hiking shoes.
Fantastic experience: Mahkai was so helpful he helped me find a really good pair of shoes for my hiking trip he was really professional and super sweet! Definitely would recommend him!
Fantastic experience: Great location! Adriana was super friendly with helping me test out different bags in store to make sure we found one that fit properly, which was no easy task for someone tall lol. Highly recommend
Fantastic experience: Love the atmosphere of this store. Great selection and knowledgeable sales team. They know the products they sell. Prices are comparable.
Fantastic experience: Service was impeccable! Austin helped me find exactly what I was looking for. Very knowledgeable and gave great recommendations!
Fantastic experience: Mahki took excellent care of me and was very professional. Thanks for the great service and friendly admosphere!!
Fantastic experience: So happy with my shoe purchase! Thank you Will for your help and advice when deciding what shoe to buy!
Fantastic experience: Mahkai was extremely helpful and polite in helping me find what I was looking for.
Fantastic experience: Friendly staff , great products !
Fantastic experience: Awesome store! And even more awesome employees! Store is super clean and well organized with a great selection. The staff is friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. It was so great we went twice in the same day! So happy to have The Backpacker on the Northshore!
Fantastic experience: Christian and Finley were very knowledgeable and extremely helpful!
Fantastic experience: Awesome store! Awesome workers! They really have some unique items in this store. If you are an outdoors person, you will love this store!!! Completely satisfied with my experience and plan to go back soon!
Fantastic experience: Great store with good quality items but most of the workers there or very knowledgeable about what there selling. Thanks Max for helping me get a head lamp that works for me! And thanks to Brian for also helping us make a decision on a future Thule size and bars for my passport and information on how you guys will install it.
Fantastic experience: Great products and great service. Friendly and knowledgeable
Positive experience: Friendly professional staff. Nice selection of gear.
Fantastic experience: The customer service we received from the staff was beyond amazing. Not to mention the Backpacker’s prices are the best in town!
Fantastic experience: This store was very nice and the employees were extremely knowledgeable about the products.
Fantastic experience: Backpacker in Mandeville was WONDERFUL! Every time we went we had a very friendly and knowledgeable employee to help us no matter what our questions were, how to use the equipment or what we really needed for our daughters 9 month journey doing mission work all over the world. Thank you, Backpacker! You were a blessing to our family in so many ways!
Fantastic experience: Thank you to everyone at the Mandeville Backpacker!!! You guys are AMAZING
Fantastic experience: Brian is absolutely AMAZING! My husband was in need of a Mardi Gras polo, so we called at 6:55 and Brian answered and said he would stay open later to take care of us! Thank you so much!
Fantastic experience: The store is incredible. Whether you’re looking for athleisure clothing such as Tasc or Vuori or casual wear for work (mizzen&main, Duck Head, etc.), they’ve got it all! Good selection of Howler Bros as well, but they fly off the shelves quickly. Tons of other cool outdoors stuff too. Finley & Brian are awesome, as is all the staff. If you haven’t gone, it’s worth to stop in, even just to “look”
Positive experience: Nice spot to buy outdoor gear and kayaks. Have a nice selection, prices are fair, and employees are knowledgeable.
Thanks, Lance!
Fantastic experience: The absolute BEST staff and gear. Great new location on the Northshore to compliment their Baton Rouge and Lafayette locations.
Thanks, Rob!
Fantastic experience: Finley was awesome!!
Fantastic experience: The entire staff was super knowledgeable and super friendly, and we enjoyed working with Makai for some shoes Came in for one left with two
Fantastic experience: Love to shop at The Backpacker in Mandeville. They have a great selection of clothing and shoes.Brian and all the staff are great. They definitely take of us every time we go in! Highly recommend stopping in there!
Fantastic experience: Excellent selection and service.
thanks Nick!
Fantastic experience: Great selection! I was able to get everything I needed, just as if I were in a shop in Colorado. The staff was very friendly and helpful. Special thanks to Max for getting me all set for my next adventure!
Thanks Nataly!
Fantastic experience: Great experience! Great products!
Fantastic experience: This is a great go to for all your backpacking needs especially if you’re from out of town. Max & the others will see to everything. Got a great sleeping bag. Highly recommended.
thanks Kymia!
Fantastic experience: GRAZIE GRAZIE ✌️
Thanks, Les!
Fantastic experience: Absolutely amazing experience!! They have the coolest dressing rooms and everyone is super helpful!
thanks Sara!
Fantastic experience: Brian was awesome. Provided great customer service, very thorough and gave us his business card. Kudos to him!!
thanks Augelle!
Fantastic experience: Great customer service - and great products! Thank you Adrianna for your help!
Thanks Brooks!
Fantastic experience: Very cool
Fantastic experience: Great team of staff. They have service for shoes and clothes
thanks Paul!
Fantastic experience: They are great . Great service. Very polite young people.
Fantastic experience: Very knowledgeable of products. Super helpful. Most attentive! Great brands.
Fantastic experience: Great store and great service!
Fantastic experience: Amazing and knowledgeable staff. Brian spent a ton of time with us helping us get exactly the right gear for our trip. Great experience!
Thanks, Mara! We'd love to see your trip pictures when you get back!
Fantastic experience: Amazing selection of outdoors necessities!! Very organized and beautifully curated products. Also, watchall know about that worker Woody?! He made my experience unforgettable, very professional!!
Fantastic experience: Love the store! Royal Robbins shirt has the best feel to it and keeps me protected from bugs with its bug repellent built into the shirt. Also, I love the new cloud surfers with their cozy feel , comfort, and strong support. You definitely should stop into the store!!!
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