Whether you’re a hiker, biker, runner, climber, skier, or amateur mycologist, a dependable daypack is a worthwhile investment. Outdoor-rec specific daypacks are designed to handle the stress and wear of the elements and are packed with features to help your performance.
A daypack will range in size between 8 and 30 liters, all depending on the activity or purpose, which could include commuting as well as your hiking.
The best daypack for you may be waterproof, or it may have a lot of pockets, it all comes down to what you’ll use it for. It is important to take your endeavors and potential surrounding into account when looking for a daypack. It’s better not to learn the hard way that there are some places that your Jansport can’t take you.
In our buyer’s guide at the bottom, we’ll break down the different kinds of packs, common features you may want to prioritize, and how to optimize your choice based on the activity.
The Top 10 Daypacks in 2023
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1
All-Purpose Adventure Pack: Osprey Talon 22/Tempest 20 -
2
Fast and Light Alpine Pack: Arc’teryx Aerios 30 -
3
Capable Commuter Bag: Patagonia Refugio 30 -
4
Ultralight Budget Bag: REI Flash 18 -
5
Supportive Day Pack: Osprey Stratos 36 -
6
High-Value Everyday Carry: North Face Borealis 28 -
7
Supportive and Lightweight: Osprey Hikelite 18 -
8
Capable for Day Hikes or Overnight: REI Traverse 32 -
9
Fast and Light Backpack: Deuter Speedlite 21 -
10
Urban Crossover Day Pack: Osprey Daylite Plus
All the Daypacks We've tested
Osprey’s extensive line of hiking packs has a little bit of something for everyone- and the Talon 22 is their most versatile and adaptable daypack model. The Talon 22 crams a full fleet of features into an unassuming, compact frame. It’s expensive for a daypack, but we think that the actual value of the pack lies in how well it performs across a wide range of different circumstances.
When we talk about daypacks, we’re usually discussing how well they perform for hiking. This bag checks out in all of our key metrics including comfort and support- with plenty of considerations for other sports. With specific storage slots for helmets, trekking poles, ice axe, and lights for cycling at night- the Talon 22 is very happily at home anywhere between your home road and the closest National Park.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 22 L (Talon)/ 20 L (Tempest)
- Weight: 2 lbs. 1 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Well-constructed pack with thoughtful features for every sport
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Durable build with a fully-functional support system
Things we don't like:
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Pricy for a daypacks
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Hip Pockets can be awkward to access on the move
With a fully realized set of features, appreciable storage capabilities, and a vest-style front harness- the Aerios 30 is somewhere between a running pack and a fast-and-light alpine bag. In a world of increasingly ambitious athletes pushing the boundaries of what constitutes a day mission, this backpack makes a lot of sense for a select demographic.
For everyone else, the Aerios 30 is a bit of an anomaly. It’s an ultralight, ultra tough bag with an impressive number of pockets and other features packed into its compact build. The low weight comes at the expense of padding around the shoulders and a more robust backplate. This could come as a big surprise to people expecting the supportive weight distribution systems found in less specialized models.
Notable Features
Shoulder Harness: The shoulder straps on the Aerios have more in common with a running vest than they do a hiking pack. These malleable webbing straps allow for more flexibility and movement while moving quickly through the hills.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 30 L
- Weight: 2 lbs (men), 1 lb. 14 oz (women)
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Low-weight, high-durability alpine fastpack
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Vest-style harness makes it more comfortable to move fast
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Extensive feature set for a lightweight bag
Things we don't like:
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A pretty specialized product for most hikers
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High price point, even for a specialized alpine pack
Patagonia’s Refugio brings the best of their outdoor and day-to-day products together into a single bag that you can use for work, travel, or your time off. Though it lacks some of the technical amenities you see in more dedicated products, the Refugio makes up for this by splitting its attention at least partially in the direction of more practical matters.
For example, the Refugio lacks a hipbelt, and features only minimal padding and ventilation along the backplate. But it makes up for this with features built for days in the city or while traveling with things like a laptop sleeve that doubles as a hydration bladder holder, a place to clip your bike light, and an internal organizer that feels more suited for the classroom and office than down trail. We’d recommend the Refugio to people looking for something with utility that they can take out for the occasional hike if needed.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: N/A
- Gear Capacity: 30 L
- Weight: 1 lb. 12 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Commuter pack that still holds its own on trail
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Affordable bag that balances fun and function
Things we don't like:
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More limited in its features than other bags in the same category
REI’s Flash 18 embraces all the best parts of minimalism. Its extreme low weight, packability, and sparing use of essential features opens up possibilities for a ton of different outdoor applications– so long as they don’t require you to bring much. It’s also priced well below the average asking price for other top daypacks we’ve looked at.
At 9.5 oz, the Flash 18 is around the lightest, smallest bag that could possibly hold all of your outdoor essentials. You get what you pay for in terms of features and fill, but we still think that the Flash has appreciable value for its flexibility and function. You can just as easily tuck the Flash 18 away in your backpacking pack for quick day trips as you could make it your go-to lightweight hiking or climbing bag.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: Frameless
- Gear Capacity: 18 L
- Weight: 9.5 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Lightweight, practical, at a low price
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It's simple build carries well for a ton of outdoor applications
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Again, the price is very fair
Things we don't like:
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There are inherent comfort and durability issues with a pack that weighs so little
Daypacks usually err on the side of keeping things simple and lightweight- offering only limited padding and support with the assumption that you won’t need it. Osprey’s Stratos 36 borrows a lot from their high-capacity and full suspension line of overnight packs. With a floating back panel, full suspension, and a weekend-worthy carry capacity- the Stratos 36 is our favorite daypack for hauling weight.
As is usually the case for the most sturdily built and highly engineered bags, the Stratos both weighs and costs substantially more than the competition. It’s heavier than some of the substantially higher-volume models we’ve reviewed and is priced at nearly twice the cost of some of our other favorite day bags. But even with these caveats in mind, the Stratos 36 is appealing to those looking for something between a weekender and performance daypack.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 36 L
- Weight: 3 lbs. 4.5 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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As strong and supportive as daypacks can get
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You can easily stretch some overnight use out of a bag like this
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Robust and comfortable carry system
Things we don't like:
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The weight and price are closer to a fully-fledged backpacking model
The Borealis 28 is an affordable and well-rounded daypack somewhere on the spectrum between commuter and hiking bag. Its standout qualities from other favorites in this category are its stoutly constructed laptop sleeve, high-capacity central compartment, and modest price tag.
The Borealis caters more towards a student or urban commuter crowd- though it’s proven more than capable of holding its own on the occasional hike. With all the bells and whistles expected of a capable urban backpack- it’s a great option for people looking to stretch a little extra value out of their day-to-day bag.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 28 L
- Weight: 2 lbs. 5 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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High value backpack for the trail or rail
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Well-built laptop sleeve and spacious interior
Things we don't like:
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No real standout features other than the laptop sleeve
Osprey’s extensive collection of backpacks has something to offer just about every style of hiker out there. Their compact Hikelite 18 is a lightweight alpine rucksack with unmistakable Osprey character. It’s a minimalist backpack that foregoes a frameless approach for something much closer to Osprey’s signature floating mesh back panel.
But where other Osprey models use their support systems to offset heavy loads, the Hikelite simply doesn’t have the rigidity or the carry capacity to allow for much more than your basic necessities. With that said, it still makes for a much more comfortable carry than anything you’d get from the frameless competition.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 18 L
- Weight: 1 lb. 8 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Lightweight bag with a full suspension system
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Comfortable option for shorter hikes
Things we don't like:
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Easy to overload if you aren’t careful
REI’s Traverse is on the upper end of what we’d consider appropriate for day hikes, but its lightweight and compressible build allows the bag to sit happily on the edge of a dedicated daypack, and something that you could use for overnight trips.
The Traverse is REI taking notes from all of the big backpacking manufacturers, and synthesizing what they learned into an effective and well-priced alternative. We think that, as with many packs in this size range, the Traverse excels in its ability to do a little bit of everything. Whether you’re looking for a bag to take on a roundtrip excursion from the trailhead, or low-stakes overnighters, the Traverse 32 makes a compelling option.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 32 L
- Weight: 2 lbs. 9 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Simple, practical backpack with a wide range of applications
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Well thought-out fit system
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Good entry point for overnight trips
Things we don't like:
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Too big to be much good as a dedicated daypack, and too small for longer backpacking trips
Deuter’s Speedlite is a low-profile, lightweight and versatile pack that can hold its own in a wide variety of sports and circumstances. With just barely enough room for your essentials, Deuter manages to integrate more features than you’d expect from something around its size.
We think the Speedlite is a great option for hikers who want a lightweight pack that’s less specialized than something like the Arc’Teryx Aerios. Its simple, streamlined build allows it to work as a crossover pack for bike commuting, a climbing pack fit for a couple of linked pitches, or as a dedicated daypack for fast and light hikers.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: Internal
- Gear Capacity: 21 L
- Weight: 15.2 oz
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Simple, practical, ultralight backpack with a wide range of applications
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Well thought out fit system
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Good entry point for overnight trips
Things we don't like:
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Lightweight packs usually run into durability issues
Crossover products between the outdoor and lifestyle categories are hard to get right. Osprey’s Daylite Plus is a notable exception to this rule, sitting very comfortably with one foot on the trail and the other on the pavement. While it’s a far cry from highly specialized daypacks like Arc’Teryx’s Aerios 30, the Daylite Plus is more than capable of handling the occasional dayhike, while making concessions for your laptop and a more urban aesthetic.
A backpack that presents as professionally as any backpack could, but has amenities like mesh side pockets and some internal organization to help you keep track of your headlamp alongside whatever you’d take to the coffee shop.
Specs & Features
- Frame Type: N/A
- Gear Capacity: 20 L
- Weight: 1 lb. 5 oz.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Crossover option for the outdoors and your day to day life
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At home in the woods or on your morning bike ride
Things we don't like:
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It has some features for outdoor application, but not as many as a more focused bag
From the college student to the busy professional, the North Face Jester Backpack was designed for those who value organization, simplicity, and above all, comfort.
It features two main compartments, two mesh water bottle pockets that can double as multi-use pockets, and a front elastic bungee system for external storage.
The large compartment has a 15” padded laptop sleeve and enough room for your books. The second compartment comes with a zip, as well as mesh pockets for small items – depending on the color of your Jester, there’s also an iPad sleeve.
The FlexVent suspension system, which The North Face is known for, features flexible shoulder straps, a padded mesh back panel, and a breathable lumbar panel ensuring comfortable and ventilated support.
Specs & Features
- Dimensions: 20 x10 x 2 inches
- Capacity: 27.5L
- Material: 100% Polyester
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Great back support and great at keeping your back dry even after long rides
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Durable
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Reflective materials for cyclists
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Smart pockets to keep items organized
Things we don't like:
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Smaller than it looks, but it still has plenty of room for everyday use
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It doesn’t really stand upright
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The top is smaller than the base, so it can be tricky to fit a bigger object inside
From the city to the trails and anywhere in between, the Osprey Daylite Travel Daypack is versatile, comfortable, and full of features. Not the classic boxey bag, this backpack has a more rounded profile you’ll be happy to have when treading through dense forests.
The large main compartment has different sections to help you keep things organized. It features a mesh organization panel, a laptop sleeve, a zipper pocket for important items, as well as plenty of room for your daily essentials.
There are also dual stretch mesh side pockets and side compression straps, a scratch-free pocket for your sunglasses or your phone, and one of the cool features of this daypack is that it can expand from 18L to a total volume of 24L.
Specs & Features
- Dimensions: 18” x 9” x 9”
- Weight: 1 lbs.
- Volume: 13 L
- Material: 210D Nylon and 400HD Nylon
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Interoperable with other Osprey packs
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Good stretchy mesh side pockets
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Size is brilliant for essentials
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Organization and design of pockets are simple
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Comfortable straps and supports
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Sustainable and durable
Things we don't like:
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If 13 liters is too small, another bag is needed
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Can be too much pack for the purpose vis-a-vis price
The Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack is a consistent top pick in the ultra-lightweight backpack category, and it comes at a great price point. It packs down compactly into its own pouch. Packed in its pouch, it’s small enough to fit in your hand, so you can throw it in any bag and have it at the ready.
One of the Osprey Ultralight’s best features is the zippered top compartment where you can store items you want to access quickly. It has a built-in key clip keeping your keys secure and easy to find.
This bag features one side pocket for your water bottle. This minimalist bag does not have internal organization, thick fabric, back padding, or extra support straps. You’ll have to arrange what you are carrying so that the load is balanced and comfortable, but many feel it’s a trade-off they are willing to make for its ultra-lightweight packability.
Dive into our full review to learn more about the pros and cons of the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack!
Specs & Features
- Product Dimensions: 17” x 9” W x 7” D
- Product Weight: 0.2 lbs
- Volume: 18 L
- Material: 40D Nylon Ripstop
- Available Colors: Electric Lime, Poppy Orange, Shadow Grey, Tropic Teal, Venturi Blue
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Packable and doesn’t take up a lot of space
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Extremely lightweight
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Zippered quick access pocket with key clip
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Zippers are well-made
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Ideal for carrying light loads
Things we don't like:
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Lack of pockets on both sides of pack
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Water bottle pocket isn’t secure
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Does not fit large body frames comfortably
Guide to Finding the Best Daypack Backpack
How to Choose a Daypack
Regardless of the pack that you choose or its intended purpose, think about where you fall on the scale of comfort and capacity versus a light-and-fast style of recreation. Do you want to carry as little and move as fast as possible? Or alternatively, would you prefer to have all of your bases covered, have extra layers for you and your friends, and maybe an emergency shelter, with a backpack that has the kind of support to carry a little more of a load comfortably?
From there, you can start thinking about the size and purpose of your pack. There’s considerable overlap between what activities a given pack will be suitable for. You don’t need a different bag for every activity, but by that same token, no one pack is going to be perfect for every sport. Your low-profile running backpack won’t have enough room for your extra climbing gear and likely won’t fit over your bulky winter gear while out skiing.
Carrying Capacity
The most notable difference you’ll see between different packs is size. Daypacks can range from anywhere between 10 to 50L, not including additional mesh storage pockets and tie-downs. While there’s no direct correlation, generally speaking, the bigger your pack, the more involved the trip. There’s no reason to carry a massive pack while you’re out for a run on your local trail, and there’s no way to fit everything you need for an overnight in a 10L pack. Basing your decision on carrying capacity is an easy way to make sure your bag is right for you in terms of style and sport.
Packs under 10L are best for activities like running and road cycling, where you’re moving fast and aren’t worried about carrying emergency supplies. Typically the most you can expect to bring are a few essentials like a lightweight layer, a couple of snacks, and personal items like your phone wallet and keys.
Around the 20L mark, full-day excursions start to become more viable. This pack size is perfect for solid day hikes, backcountry mountain biking, and extended trail runs. This is about the biggest pack that you’ll want for any running. Any larger and weight starts to get unmanageable. Right around 20 liters is good for skiing the resort because you hardly notice it’s there, with enough room for food and water. At this point, you can begin to fit things like first aid kits, enough food to see you through a day of travel, and other essentials.
From 20-35L, you can start to take liberties with what you’re packing. This size is the sweet spot for most hiking packs, as you have enough room to cover not only the basic essentials for backcountry travel but can also fit things like your camera or a hammock. Bags around this size tend to be a little more sturdily constructed, with padded hip belts and other weight distribution systems to compensate for increasing load size.
Above 35 and up to 50L, you start to move into the realm of actual backpacking packs. Packs in this size range are suitable for technical and gear-intensive adventures like climbs with significant approaches, backcountry skiing, mountaineering, or winter travel where your layers and supplies take up more space. Plenty of ultralight backpackers will be comfortable in this range for trekking as well.
Daypacks by Activity
If you’re more concerned about optimizing performance for your activity of choice, looking into the pack’s specific features per style is an excellent way to go. Below we’ll dig a little deeper into distinct features to look at per sport, with a little more information about specific features afterward.
Hiking
Picking the perfect day pack for hiking is tricky. Some people will want the lightest possible option, while others value comfort and carrying capacity. Regardless, you’ll want to look primarily at options between 20 and 35L if you’re limiting your excursion to one day. Most hikers value features like a hip belt with pockets and a hydration system. For those wearing a pack for an extended period, an internal frame helps with weight distribution. In essence, you want to be comfortable, and the perfect pack is one that lets you keep hiking.
Running
The most critical feature of a running pack is a low-profile design that hugs close to your back and keeps things from bouncing around too much while you’re out and about. Low weight and easy access to water and food are great too. Many running packs have bladder integration, so you don’t have to fuss with water bottles. Oftentimes running and cycling daypacks use perforated webbing rather than solid straps to regulate body temperature and prevent chafing. Typically you’ll want to keep it at the sub-20L mark, probably closer to 6L unless you’re really out there on a trail run.
Climbing
If you plan on doing a lot of cragging, a 30-40L gear bag is great for hauling your rope, draws, and cams up the trail. Generous hip belts, a rigid internal frame, tie-downs, and daisy chains are great for this style of approach bag; anything that will help you comfortably carry rope and rack on notoriously primitive climber trails. The thicker fabric found on this bag style is also a good call for durability and allows you to use your bag as a ground tarp for your rope in a pinch. When actually in the act of climbing, most people prefer something frameless and lightweight, usually around the 20L mark.
Snowsports
When searching for a good ski pack, look for a lot of the same things you would in a larger hiking bag. A good hip belt, pockets for access to snacks and sunscreen, and plenty of internal space for your extra layers, helmet, and safety equipment. Backcountry packs tend to be between 35 and 45L. Support from a solid frame is reassuring and helps just as much uphill as it does downhill. A dedicated, quick-access pocket for a shovel and probe is a must-have, and an external loop for carrying an ice-ax is a huge plus. Other features to look for include a ski carry system and side-panel quick access.
Cycling
Cycling packs tend to be somewhere between the style of a running bag and a smaller hiking day pack. Ideally, they should be close-fitting, limit the bag’s movement while in transit, and have either higher or minimal hip belts that don’t interfere with your ability to crank your pedals. As with a hiking pack, the features most valued in cycling bags are ones that let you keep moving with minimal stops or adjustments. Comfort and quick access to water are chief among these. Most cycling packs will fall somewhere between 5 and 15L.
Features
Daypack Frames
Minimalist packs will often forgo any kind of frame, but those carrying any substantial weight or traveling on trails for a significant amount of time may find a frame to be essential for keeping their back and shoulders feeling good. Frames are usually made of rigid plastic or a lightweight metal like aluminum. The most common for daypacks are plastic removable backplates, with this modular design, you can tailor your bag to your adventure. Weight tolerances and frame preferences will vary from person to person; definitely look toward support as you approach the 20lb mark.
Straps and belts
At the very least, most backpacks have some form of sternum strap to help reduce jostling as you go along your business, as well as an adjustable set of shoulder straps. But across different styles and sports, daypacks will have different kinds of straps and hip belts. Frameless and lightweight options for things like climbing or very short hikes have a hip belt limited to just a piece of webbing, while bags designed to carry weight will have padded straps around the waist to help keep some of the load from hanging off of your back.
For running and cycling, hip belts tend to be a little higher up across the stomach and have a little more flexibility to accommodate the rapid motion. The key is keeping the weight evenly distributed. Regardless of the sport, what you want most is something that can help protect your shoulders and back.
Pockets
In addition to your top access storage, it’s helpful to have some additional pockets regardless of how you plan on using your day pack. Minimalist packs will generally have fewer zippered pockets to help save on weight, but I’ve found that more is more when it comes to this department. Hip belt pockets are helpful for storing snacks and other on-the-go items as you might need, and a good couple of water bottle holders are essential for anyone without a hydration pack. A favorite feature for a daypack is an external mesh quick-access pocket that you can store a rain jacket or extra layer in when the weather is unpredictable.
In addition to external pockets, having internal compartments for your phone or other valuables is always helpful. Some packs go as far as to include entire internal organization systems to keep your gear in line and make it easier to locate essential items on the fly. Dedicated pockets for things like medical supplies or maps are a great way to be sure you haven’t forgotten anything at the trailhead.
Hydration system
Even the best-placed water bottle pocket can be a strain on the shoulders to reach when you’re on the trail. Compatibility with water reservoirs is a really valuable feature that helps you stay hydrated when it matters most. Having a specific place to put the bladder, and in turn, somewhere to run your hose makes it much easier to justify carrying one around with you. Anyone who has had a water bladder suddenly spring a leak will tell you the value of having somewhere specific to keep it protected and your stuff dry.
Ventilated Back Panel
Much more common for larger packs with full frames, a suspended ventilation system is a great way to keep temperature regulated during summer. These mesh backings allow air to flow freely across your back, letting sweat dry and preventing chafing over time.
Bottom/Side Access Panels
Almost every pack you try out will have some kind of top access to access your gear efficiently. Some models have side and bottom access to make it easier to get to a specific area of your pack without having to empty the entire thing. Side access zips are most convenient for any kind of winter travel or when the ground is wet, as it allows you to do some searching without having to set anything down on the snow or mud.
Bottom access panels are a little less valuable. Frequently these are designed to give you a place to store your sleeping bag. If you’re traveling light, a bottom panel can be an excellent way to keep important items that you’ll frequently access a little bit drier in lieu of a rain cover.
Rain Cover/Water Resistance
Although most daypacks have some kind of water-resistant property, it’s never a bad idea to invest in a rain cover for your bag. Nowadays, the materials used for almost every hiking pack are resilient enough to keep light rain and mist from soaking through the fabric but won’t hold up when the rain starts to come down in earnest. Some bags are marketed as entirely waterproof, but that claim is sometimes dubious, and they’re much more expensive than anything else. For a closer look at what’s out there in terms of waterproof packs, take a look at our overview page.
If you can’t swing a rainfly, a heavy-duty trash bag used as an internal liner is a classic workaround. It won’t keep anything stored in the external pockets of your bag dry, but so long as it remains in one piece, anything inside should stay dry without issue.
Women’s Specific Daypacks
While it’s not an absolute dealbreaker, there are some definite benefits to opting for a women’s specific daypack. They’re designed to fit around the torso and hips more optimally than unisex packs, and the sizing is adjusted to accommodate typically shorter torsos of women. Shorter men may also find they fit a little better than standard models. Ultimately it’s about preference. I’d encourage you to try several fits and styles to find something that works well for you, don’t let labels influence your decision too much because your back will tell you everything you need to know.
If you are looking for bigger backpacks for hiking or camping? Check out our best hiking backpacks and our best backpacking backpacks reviews.
Frequently asked questions
The best size for a daypack hinges primarily on how you intend on using it. As a whole, daypacks can range anywhere from ~10L running packs up to 45-50L technical bags, with just about every shape and size imaginable between them. For more information about how to choose the best bag for you, take a look at our overview page. Below, we’ll break down the approximate size ranges for daypacks by activity.
Hiking- 20-35L
Running- 6-10L
Climbing- 20-25L
Snowsports-25-35L
Cycling- 10-15L
Regardless of the activity, anytime you venture into the backcountry you want to make sure you have your ten essentials covered: navigation, light source, sun protection, first aid supplies, knife, fire starter, emergency shelter, extra food, extra water, extra clothes. Your interpretation of these supplies will differ depending on what you’re doing, but having all of your survival bases covered is always a good idea. For more on daypacks and how to choose the right one for you, see our overview page.
A daypack is a small backpack that holds enough equipment and supplies for any outdoor excursion that will take less than a day. Daypacks are a great addition to your camping or backpacking setup because they let you embark on small adventures from your basecamp without having to haul all your equipment with you. Daypacks are also great for climbing, biking, and other shorter activities. For more information on daypacks and how to choose the right one for you, check out our overview page.
The best daypack for your hiking needs is going to depend on your style and preferences. In general, daypacks for hiking tend to be somewhere between 20 and 35L, with a little bit of wiggle room on either side. Many daypacks have features like hip belts and hydration systems to optimize your experience. To learn more about the wide variety of daypacks and narrow down your search to the best option for you, take a look at our overview page. Meanwhile, here are a few of our favorites.
Best Daypacks
Now, we want to hear from you!
What’s your favorite Daypack and why?
Let us know in the comment section below!
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