We have put some of the most iconic designs and unlikely underdogs through their paces to bring you 12 of the best hiking daypacks on offer at the moment. Finding the right pack for your needs can be a challenge; there’s a lot to consider from carrying weight and usage to size, shape and so much more.
In this round up of the best daypacks for hiking, we’ve included the key details that will help you decide which pack is right for you. Each individually linked review will take you through to a more in-depth analysis of each product. This includes hands on pictures and the testing focuses we’ve covered, such as durability, comfort and features as well as many more.
Whether you’re looking for a daypack that can also work as a commuting pack, a trail running focused pack, a small hiking backpack or a waterproof hiking backpack for backpacking, our guide and buying advice has you covered and be confident you’re making the right decision for your needs, for years to come.
Editor’s note: This article is part of our overall guide to the best daypacks, see more in this guide:
You may also be interested in: Best Waterproof Hiking Backpacks
Product | Osprey Talon 22 | Deuter Speed Lite 23 | Osprey Stratos 24 | Gregory Citro 24 | Rab Tensor 20 | Osprey Daylite/Plus | Mystery Ranch Coulee 30 | Black Diamond Distance 15 | The North Face Basin 24L | Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil 20 | Cotopaxi 24L Batac Pack | Granite Gear Dagger Ultralight |
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Buying Options | ||||||||||||
Our Award | Best Overall Daypack | Best Daypacks For Women | Best Daypacks For Men | Best Waterproof Hiking Daypack | Best Daypack For Hot Weather | Best Daypack For Travel | Best Hiking Daypack With Hydration | Best Lightweight Daypack | ||||
Type and Style | Lightweight all purpose backpack for hiking, climbing and bikepacking | Hybrid trail running/hiking/climbing | Full suspension backpack | Full suspension hiking pack | Lightweight summer pack | Lightweight lifestyle travel/hiking pack | Full suspension backpack/summit pack | Hybrid trail running/hiking/climbing | Hiking and biking | Ultralight daypack | Basic hiking | All round hiking |
Material | bluesign®-approved recycled 100D x 210D wave check high-tenacity nylon with a PFC-free DWR coating. | 140D and 100D recycled polyamide | 210D recycled nylon body, 420D recycled nylon accents and bottom with a PFC/PFAS-free DWR | 210D Honeycomb Cryptorip Nylon and 420D High Density Nylon body. EVA foam straps, alloy steel frame. 135D High Density and 50% recycled polyester lining | 100% recycled 420D polyester ripstop | bluesign® approved 300D recycled polyester | 210D recycled nylon, DWR | UHMWPE ripstop body fabric and mesh | 210D recycled ripstop nylon and 600D recycled polyester also all with non PFC DWR | 15D high strength nano nylon fabric with silicon coating for water resistance | Offcut material used from other brands production runs, making a sustainable pack | Nylon (100D and 210D) |
Capacity | 22 liters | 23L | 24L | 24 liters | 20 liters | 20 liters | 30L | 15L | 24L | 20L | 24L | 22L |
Breathability | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Not as good as some other models | OK | OK | Not as good as some other models | Poor | OK | Good |
Pockets | 6 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 11 | 6 | 1 | 6 | 6/7 |
Dimensions | 48 x 28 x 23 cm | 52 x 27 x 18 cm | 59 x 34 x 24cm | 52 x 28 x 20 cm | 50 x 30 x 23cm | 43 x 26 x 20 cm | 57 x 27 x 24 cm | 47 x 32 x 13 cm | 50 x 27.9 x 17 cm | 48 x 28 x 20 cm | 51 x 28 x 18 cm | 53.34 x 33.02 x 20.32 cm |
Rain Cover | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | No |
Durability | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent | OK | Good | Excellent |
Below, we’ve rounded up 12 of the best hiking daypacks out there and through our tests we’ve looked at a variety of criteria. We’ve carefully looked at each daypack holistically and tested it based on its intended purpose. For example, a daypack that is intended for ultralight hiking shouldn’t be compared or marked down next to a pack aimed at carrying heavier weights – it’s just not intended for that.
As you’ll see, we’ve awarded the various packs in our round up below based on their strengths and made it clear which category each falls into. Above, in our comparison table, you will also see that each pack is labelled with a category to help you decide. Where possible, in our individual reviews, we’ve also tried to specify what kind of carrying weight you can expect to be able to work with for each.
You’ll see we’ve divided between unisex, women’s and men’s below, but really these are just a guide. Many brands will make a men’s and women’s specific variant, but if not, always use your measurements and not the gender to help you determine what will be right for your needs.
6 Best Unisex Hiking Daypacks
Some packs are offered as unisex models – this is generally because there is only one size option, and the pack is designed for all genders so has a fairly forgiving fit system. We’d advise that you measure yourself against these packs and the manufacturers fitting guide to see what might be the best fit for you in terms of size.
Some of these packs are also offered in gendered versions, which, depending on your measurements, may give a better fit and feel. Don’t worry if the gender you’ve chosen as the best fit doesn’t correlate – it’s always better to get a properly fitting pack than anything else!
Osprey Talon 22
Best Overall Daypack
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Very comfortable for all types of hiking
- Versatile and includes plenty of attachment points
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Not great for petite frames (but the Tempest can answer that problem)
- Cost is high
Good to know: This pack is generally referred to as unisex, but it is actually classed as a men’s pack by Osprey. There is a women’s specific variant, but base what you go for on your frame and shape. If you’re petite, you may want to look at the Tempest as a good alternative.
See the Osprey Talon 22 in more detail:
When it comes to the best hiking daypacks, it doesn’t get much better than the Osprey Talon 22. It’s a no nonsense, well applied, fantastically featured pack. Whether you’re planning to go further with your adventures or not, the Talon will become the pack you reach for time and time again.
What we love first and foremost about the Talon 22 is how well cushioned and supportive it feels on longer hikes too. It’ll take weight well and the suspension system combined with the well positioned hip and compression straps keep the weight distributed evenly.
The extended fit range Osprey have rolled out for this pack make it more accessible too, with redesigned elements perfect for different frames. They’ve actually worked with product testers to get this right. Of course, if you’re more petite, there’s the Tempest too, which is designed slightly differently to the Talon model.
When you combine all that’s right about this pack (it’s comfort, its ability to carry a heavy or lighter load with ease, its versatility and attachment points) with the fact it’s made of entirely recycled components, it’s easy to see why we rate this pack so highly and will ultimately make the best daypack for many hikers. Read our full review of the Osprey Talon 22 here.
Gregory Citro 24
Best Waterproof Hiking Daypack
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Great back suspension system makes this pack feel supportive, even with heavier loads
- Fully waterproof with included rain cover
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Fairly heavy in relation to other models
- Hip belt can feel short for larger waists or hips
Good to know: Gregory offers this daypack as unisex, and is good for all genders
See the Gregory Citro 24 in more detail:
The Gregory Citro 24 really impressed us in all of our tests, and in fact our reviewer has said many times that in his opinion this is one of the best daypacks for hiking he’s ever tested. Why? It fits exceptionally well, feels comfortable and is a technical pack that will be happy to go wherever your time outdoors takes you. The full suspension system and waterproofing just add to its appeal.
If you know you need to carry a heavier load, then this pack is perfect. The back suspension system is one of the best and most robust we’ve tested. The ventilation offered is pretty next level too, with minimal sweating even on hotter hikes.
When it comes to alpine hikes or specialist hikes where you may need tools like hiking poles, ice axes and more, the attachment points offer additional ways to carry your gear that will never get in the way. We think this pack from Gregory is strong, dependable and ultimately durable and is built to last – no doubt about that! Read our full review of the Gregory Citro 24 here.
Rab Tensor 20
Best Daypack for Hot Weather
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Feels roomy and light
- Air vent system works well for warmer hikes
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Could do with a better back system for heavier loads
- No real waterproofing
Good to know: This pack is offered as unisex
See the Rab Tensor 20 in more detail:
We were impressed with the Rab Tensor 20, and we found it to make one of the best day pack options out there for warmer or summer hiking. Even outside of summer, we’ve tested this pack in a wide range of environments and locations, and it’s always performed well and feels comfortable for shorter and more extended missions.
It does struggle a little with heavier loads and isn’t waterproof, but then that isn’t really what it is intended for. If you’re looking for one of the best hiking daypacks for general day to day hiking, then you will be very pleased by what the Tensor 20 has to offer. It is of course also possible to add an external rain cover and an internal liner to extend it to four seasons too.
This pack feels fast and light, streamlined, comfortable and no nonsense. It has room for everything you need for a general day hike, and feels exceptionally roomy. If you want to keep things fast, low profile and low weight, then give the Tensor 20 your consideration. Read our full review of the Rab Tensor 20 here.
Osprey Daylite/Plus
Best Daypack for Travel
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Can attach to some other Osprey Travel packs, making it versatile for travel and trail
- Light
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Shoulder straps aren’t suitable for heavier loads
- Isn’t that technical – so is more suitable for travel/hiking and day to day simple trails
Good to know: The Daylite/Plus is marketed as unisex and is good for all genders
See the Osprey Daylite/Plus in more detail:
If you’re looking for one of the best small daypacks for hiking that also doubles up for travel, then the Osprey Daylite/Plus will give you the versatility you need from the airport through to wherever your adventures take you. It’s also very versatile and can be combined/attached to some of Osprey’s other travel focused carrying systems, such as the Fairview wheeled travel pack.
With a heavier load, this pack does start to bear the brunt, but if you use this pack for general day to day hiking, commuting and travel, or a combination of those, then the Daylite/Plus may be just the pack you need. It also comes in a number of fun, and sometimes limited edition patterns and designs so it looks cooler than your average pack.
It’s the perfect grab and go for light adventures and comes with a streamlined feel that still makes space for a front pouch, water bottle pockets and all you’ll need to stash for a day outdoors. We think the price point is a big win too – coming in way less than many of Osprey’s other packs. Read our full review of the Osprey Daylite/Plus here.
Cotopaxi 24L Batac Pack
Best Budget Hiking Backpack
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Sustainability focused with striking, unique designs
- Very reasonably priced
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Basic hiking with limited load carrying
- No real support on the back or ventilation offered
Good to know: This pack is offered in one fit and is unisex, but the smaller, 16L version may be better for more petite frames
If you’re in the market for a basic pack that will suit you for light trails and even work, then the versatility of the Cotopaxi Batac 24L may be the best hiking daypack for you. It doesn’t offer a lot in terms of back support and ventilation, but in more temperate or slightly cooler climbs, it’s absolutely perfect. It’s capacity really is limited to about 7kg, but has more than enough space for basic day hiking essentials.
One of this packs biggest draws for us is the fact that it’s made with sustainability in mind. It is part of the Del Dia range, which is made in the Philippines entirely out of material cast offs from other brands larger production lines. This of course cuts down on wastage whilst also creating a robust and hard wearing pack.
Its minimal design will appeal to a lot of hikers, with simple water bottle pockets on the side, a front zipped pouch and a main compartment with some dividers and a further zipped pocket for valuables. It’s also lightweight too, coming in at 482g/17oz. Read our full review of the Cotopaxi Batac 24L.
The North Face Basin 24
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Good, all rounder and perfect for multi use including biking
- Included rain cover is a bonus
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Struggles with heavier loads
- Lacks attachment points and hook points for rain cover lack durability
Good to know: There is only one fit for this daypack, and it is marketed as unisex
See The North Face Basin 24L in more detail:
It’s no surprise that outdoor giant The North Face’s Basin 24L is one of the best daypacks for hiking. It’s well featured for general hiking and it’s no nonsense and minimal appeal will attract a lot of hikers who also want a daypack that works for commuting and travel too.
We were really impressed with the comfort offered on the Basin 24L. Its slight ‘coffin’ shape and higher placement on the back makes it a great option for cyclists and biking as it will not get in the way. It’s generally well built and feels like it will stand the test of time.
It also feels comfortable to wear for extended periods and the ventilation system offered on the back and shoulders does a good job of preventing too much sweating, even on hotter trails. For the price point, this is an exceptional pack and for many hikers, this may be the only pack they will need. Read our full review of The North Face Basin 24L.
Best Women’s Daypacks for Hiking
The best daypacks for hiking for women are ones that are usually tailored more to the female form. Generally, women have shorter backs than men, so this is often taken into consideration on the length of backpacks aimed at women.
That said, if you’re taller or have a larger frame, you may want to consider a unisex or men’s specific pack that may be better suited to your needs. Always look at the measurements provided in the manufacturers sizing guide before purchasing, especially on the hip belt to make sure this will be right for you.
Gone are the days of pink backpacks being the only option for women – thankfully the outdoors industry is actually taking this area seriously now with stylish packs that are absolutely fit for purpose. Here are three of the best to consider, depending on your needs on the trail.
Deuter Speed Lite 23
Best Daypacks for Women
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Reasonable price for the feature set
- Feels very comfortable to wear for many different types of activity
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Struggles with heavier loads
- No waterproofing
Good to know: This pack is also available in a men’s specific version at 25L
See the Deuter Speed Lite 23 in more detail:
Alongside the range of other great day packs Deuter offers and is known and loved for comes the Speed Lite 23, a hybrid pack that handles both hiking and trail running exceptionally well. Deuter have combined a running harness style back and waist strap style system with a more technical front facing pack. What this means is that the Speed Lite holds the body comfortably and even on uneven terrain where you could expect wobble, it stays in place.
For more technical trails, it has a wealth of attachment points too for things like ice axes, crampons and hiking poles. It’s also possible to buy a helmet attachment from Deuter, taking this even further.
One downside is this pack’s lack of rain protection, but an after market rain cover from either Deuter or another retailer will have this pack work well in all four seasons. It’s a good all rounder for general day to day hiking, and we generally feel that this is one of the best hiking daypacks out there right now. Read our full review of the Deuter Speed Lite 23L.
Black Diamond Distance 15
Best Lightweight Daypack
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Very lightweight and well featured
- Well priced considering its features
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Falls down with heavier loads
- Some areas aren’t water resistant
Good to know: You’ll usually see this pack marketed as unisex/women’s however if buying through REI, they do carry both a women’s and men’s version.
See the Black Diamond Distance 15 in more detail:
If you’re looking for a trail running backpack/hiking daypack hybrid, then you should seriously consider the Black Diamond Distance 15. If you’re looking for something with a good technical range that is suited for climbing, scrambling and alpine ascents, you’ll be even more impressed with this small hiking backpack.
If you want a pack for heavier loads, then this might not be the right fit for you, but for general day to day and ultralight missions, this pack really comes into its own. It’s comfortable to wear and at 361g/0.79lb feels effortless and feather light.
We think it’s well designed too – allowing quick access to things like your hiking poles, ice axe and other specialist tools. Black Diamond have done a fantastic job on this pack of taking the best elements of a running harness/vest and the support this offers and combining it with a summit pack. All offered at a reasonable price point that will be within most hiker’s budgets. Read our full review of the Black Diamond Distance 15.
Mystery Ranch Coulee 30
Best Hiking Daypack with Hydration
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Good storage solutions and design
- Shoulder straps and waist belt are comfortable for heavier loads
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- On the pricey side
- Front zip system could do with improvement
Good to know: The Coulee 30 is also offered in a men’s variant, and is also offered in a L/XL.
See the Mystery Ranch Coulee 30 in more detail:
If you’re looking for a day pack/hiking backpack that will also double up for short backpacking trips, then the Mystery Ranch Coulee 30 is a great option to consider. It’s exceptionally comfortable to wear for longer periods and with heavier weight inside and with plenty of attachment points, you’ll have everything you need to get out on the trail.
We found through our tests that this pack does just as well for bigger day hikes as it does for backpacking and we felt comfortable and confident wearing it for short backpacking trips in no time. In fact, it became our testers go to almost straight away.
The full front zip opening is generally regarded as a good plus point on this pack. However, we weren’t so keen as it does mean you have to take the pack off and items start falling out when open. But that aside, we couldn’t really find any other faults with it!
The full suspension system means your back is well supported and there is a lot of adjustments that can be made to make it feel even more unique to you. It’s clearly built to last, and we love that Mystery Ranch offer a repair service should you need it. Read our full review of the Mystery Ranch Coulee 30 here.
Best Men’s Day Packs
Day hiking backpacks aimed specifically at men tend to offer extended sizing and slightly bigger pack support systems. They also, from our testing, seem to have slightly lower hip belts (this is likely down to a longer back).
Whilst some of the packs featured in this section may technically be unisex, we’ve found them particularly favorable for the male hiker. Whether a men’s specific hiking pack will be right for you will depend on your frame and size, so always look at the manufacturer’s measurements and sizing guide against your own to decide.
You may also notice that some of the daypacks listed above in both the unisex section and the women’s specific also offer men’s specific packs. These can often be slightly differently designed, and some are also offered with increased volume too. Here’s three of our favorites.
Osprey Stratos 24
Best Daypacks for Men
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Waterproof
- Comfortable and supportive for longer periods of wear
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Front loading pocket can be annoying to use on trail
- Pricey
Good to know: This pack is also offered as a women’s specific variant, called the Sirrus 24. It is slimmer than the Stratos and suitable for more petite frames too.
See the Osprey Stratos 24 in more detail:
We think this is without a doubt one of the best day hiking backpack options out there for men right now. Why? Because it offers exceptional versatility and has a lot of function if you’re looking for a more technical pack that is suitable for day hiking, carrying heavy loads, alpine ascents and difficult terrain. It’s basically a good all-rounder for the outdoors.
It’s sturdy and built for longevity, like every other Osprey pack we’ve tested. It’s also really good for heavier loads due to the back support, shoulder straps and hip belt that help distribute weight evenly and comfortably.
We’re confident that if you buy this pack, it will last you for years to come, and through our tests, shows no signs of weak spots or abrasions, even after putting it through its paces on harsh trails. What’s more, it’s made from fully recycled materials. Read our full review of the Osprey Stratos 24.
Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil 20
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Extremely light
- Packs down exceptionally small
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- No padding or support at all on the back and shoulders
- 7kg carry weight at the most and we’d advise much less than that
Good to know: This pack is only sold in one size/variant and is technically unisex.
See the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil 20 in more detail:
Good hiking daypacks generally don’t come as small as this, but Sea to Summit have created a pretty amazing, versatile option that will suit some ultralight hikers and those who want a quick day hike pack from a backpacking base well. This unusual option is a little bit controversial, but after testing, we found we really enjoyed using it, providing you don’t make it into something it isn’t.
For the price and size, it’s a great pack to have with you should the need arise. For day missions and ultralight it’s great. It’s also fantastic for travel and a good all rounder for day to day chores like grocery shopping. If loaded correctly and balanced right by using your cushiony soft items on the outside and anything bulkier in the middle, it is also comfortable to wear.
Its weight is its real win point here – coming in at 72g/2.5oz. Which we think is pretty amazing when you think about it! There’s a good chance that for many hikers, this won’t be the only daypack you need, but for certain uses, this option from Sea to Summit holds up as a viable option. Read our full review of the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil 20.
Granite Gear Dagger Ultralight Day Pack
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Great balance between lightweight and carrying capacity e
- Durable and comfortable to wear
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Not waterproof
- Feels big for petite hikers
The Granite Gear Dagger Ultralight Day pack is a fantastic offering from a brand who are well known for their backpacking packs. It shows in the Dagger, as they have managed to get all that is good with the rest of their line and shrink it down into an extremely lightweight package (680g/1.5lbs). What’s more, unlike some other packs in this lightweight category, its load capacity is exceptional at 11kg/25lb.
The brand is able to achieve this by taking their well thought out technology, which uses a thin frame and the waist straps and padded shoulder straps to distribute the weight perfectly for a really comfortable wear. What’s even better is that unlike some of the other heavy-duty packs made for carrying heavier loads, it doesn’t feel too bulky with lighter loads either, meaning its ready to go on any hike.
Outwardly, this pack may look quite basic, and doesn’t offer waterproofing, but it is impressive and very much up to the job of more technical hiking, especially if you add a rain cover to make it four seasons. We’ve been really impressed with this 22 liter day pack, and we’re sure you will be too! Read our full review of the Granite Gear Dagger Ultralight here.
Hiking Daypacks Buying Guide
As you’ll probably have figured from our round up, the best hiking daypacks come in all shapes and sizes. There really is something for everyone and what makes the best day backpack for hiking for one person will be different to the next. This is generally down to things like carrying weight, need for attachment points for things like hiking poles and capacity and sizing.
Below, we’ve broken down the key things you’ll want to consider when deciding which hiking daypack is right for you – and for a more in depth look, including the different types of daypacks you can expect to find, be sure to read our article how to choose the right daypack for your hike. You may also be interested to read our article how we tested hiking daypacks to get a better idea of everything we consider in our performance tests.
Material
Most of the best day hike backpack options on the market right now use either polyester or nylon for some or the majority of their construction. However, polyester can run into problems when it comes to longer term durability. That said, it has good water resistance qualities naturally.
Nylon is usually a firm favorite as it offers a much more durable finish. It can be made ripstop to prevents abrasions and with a DWR coating added, only helps to increase water resistance. Some manufacturers opt to include both polyester and nylon which combines the strength of each.
This is mirrored through both more expensive and cheaper options, and the price difference usually comes down to weight, features and also brand name. Luckily, many brands are also using recycled nylon and polyester components or full set ups now to create a more sustainable pack.
Breathability
It’s natural that when you’re hiking, you’re likely to build up a sweat so it’s important to get the breathability level offered by the daypack you’re thinking of buying right. This is especially so if you hike in hotter locations for more of the year as this will have a big impact on your overall comfort and enjoyment.
Consider whether the pack you’re looking at has an air vent system on the back. This can usually be found by looking to see if there are any rubber moldings on the back. This is usually for ventilation. Some packs will also have webbed or honeycomb style fabric around this area too.
This is also important on the shoulder straps and waist belt too – basically any area that will touch the skin. Usually, the more advanced breathability systems will be offered on heavier, full back suspension packs as they are intended for carrying heavier weight. However, on trail running focused packs, the ventilation system offered can use fabric that wicks moisture up and out easily for more demanding workouts.
Waterproofing
Overall, most of the best daypacks for hiking on the market right now offer something in terms of water resistance. This is usually a DWR coating on the body fabric which is designed to keep light to moderate rain out of the pack and keep your belongings dry. There is no standard here so it can vary between models and manufacturers as to what the saturation level offered is.
This can of course become insufficient over time as the DWR coating wears and dirt and debris stop this system working correctly. This can be treated and looked after with a DWR treatment. We’d recommend doing this to keep your pack water resistant longer term.
For your pack to be fully waterproof though, you’ll need a rain cover. Some daypacks come with this as standard, but others don’t. So, if not, you should look at buying one that will fit the size (usually offered as different sizes per the liters your pack carries). These can be relatively inexpensive and stow away when not in use. You can also look to add a liner inside your pack for a real, steadfast approach.
Dimensions
As you’ll see from our day hiking pack comparison table backpacks vary in size. This is usually due to the liter difference offered but can also be down to the cut of the pack, the certain shape used and the various different pockets.
Some packs are more suited to different frames than others too – and you’ll generally find that shorter dimension packs will be better for more petite frames and those with shorter backs. Larger packs may feel a little overwhelming and cumbersome for some hikers too – stretching above the neck and not sitting right.
This can cause discomfort, so it’s important to measure your back carefully to make sure that your new pack will sit perfectly and be comfortable to wear. For taller hikers and those that need an extended fit, make sure that the dimensions of the hip belt and the back panel are right for you by measuring. This can help improve comfort massively, especially on longer hikes.
Fit
As you’ll have seen above, packs can generally be divided into three categories: unisex, male and female. Why are they gendered? Generally, this will refer to if a different size option is offered. For example, some packs that are designed for the female body can have a shorter back and differently shaped shoulder and hip belt sections.
Those that are intended for the male figure are often longer in the back and can come in extended sizes too. Some brands will offer the same pack in a male and female fit whereas others will offer a completely different named and redesigned pack, whilst also keeping the namesake elements of the original (this is common with Osprey daypacks).
Where unisex is concerned, these packs can really be used by any gender, and you also don’t need to feel like just because a pack is designed for a specific gender, that this will be the best option for you. Go on dimensions and measurements over anything else.
Aside from gendered packs, some brands also offer extended sizing and longer lengths in areas such as the hip belt. These are often completely redesigned, and the placement altered to fit different body types better.
When looking at fitting your pack, pay attention to load lifters, which are located at the top of the pack near the straps which will allow you to control how your pack sits. You can also control the sternum strap and waist/hip belt the same way.
Storage
Storage will be one of the most important elements to consider when choosing the best day pack for your needs. If this is to be your only pack, and will be for general hiking, consider how much you need to bring with you. You should take into consideration how long you usually plan to hike for and if you have any specialist gear (such as camera equipment) you need to bring with you.
We’d advise you get together all of your gear and weigh it to see how much it generally comes to. Do a few variations of this so you can find your maximum and minimum loads. Once you have this, look at what the rough load capacity is for the pack you’re interested in.
Generally, if you’re looking to carry anything over about 7-8kg, you will need a pack with a better suspension system. Anything under 7kg and a general, day to day hiking pack with less shoulder and back support will be fine.
Most daypacks come with a variety of different storage areas, from the main compartment to the hip belt pockets, and water reservoir sleeve. It’s important to also consider how much you are likely to need access to items on the go as the location of the pockets on your pack can make or break its ease of use.
Comfort
Comfort is exceptionally important, as if you get it wrong, you will not enjoy your hike as much as you could if you had a well fitting pack that is fit for purpose. Daypacks for hiking come in all shapes and sizes with different levels of comfort depending on your usage and body shape, so it really is a personal thing. Thinking about the kind of hiking you plan to do will really help here.
For example, if you are planning to move fast and light, perhaps trail running too, then a pack that has a running vest/harness style system for its straps will probably be more comfortable for you. This is because this type of pack hugs the body more and doesn’t bounce as much due to trail movement.
If you plan to use your pack for backpacking too, or for carrying heavier gear, then a full back suspension system and a focus on padding on straps as well as ventilation will be your best friend. This is because with heavier weights, packs that are intended for fast and light hiking can faulter due to their inadequate strap padding and cause sore spots on your shoulders and hips.
Features
As above, the features you need from your daypack are similar to the level of comfort you need – it’s entirely personal depending on the type of hiking you plan to do. Many packs will have a variety of features aimed at more technical hiking. These usually come in the form of adjustment straps that can be used for lashing things like helmets, hiking poles, ice axes and crampons to the body of the pack with easy access.
Others will make more a feature of pockets and zipped areas – from front loading zips to organization areas that can help you have everything you need easily and quickly. More basic or general packs may hone down and remove some of these to shave off weight in areas where most hikers don’t need it. Whereas trail running packs have a focus on what is included in the vest section of the pack. Consider what it is you need longer term to help you decide what features are right for you.
Durability
Naturally, some daypacks are more durable than others and the best hiking daypacks will stand the test of time for upwards of ten years if you look after it well. This is great news as it plays well into sustainability too. Packs that are intended to carry heavier loads are usually more durable and use thicker (Denier) materials than those intended for quick and fast or general hiking.
It’s worth looking to see if there are any areas that could be a weak point depending on the kind of hiking you do. You can also keep your pack as durable as possible by looking after it, repairing any damage and using a DWR treatment every few months to keep it repelling water properly.
Sustainability
Given that a lot of daypacks are made from polyester and nylon, more and more are being offered using fully recycled materials. Some brands, like Cotopaxi take this one step further and the Batac we’ve reviewed above is made entirely of offcuts and wastage from other brands.
One of the best things you can do aside from looking at recycled elements and brands ethos is to buy less. So really consider if the pack you’re intending to buy will be fit for purpose down the line. If you treat your pack well, there is no reason it couldn’t last you a long time and grow as your adventures do.
Conclusion
There is no one size fits all approach to the best daypacks for hiking and what you choose will be completely unique to your needs. Thankfully, there is an option out there for all tastes, needs and budgets as well as hybrids that can get the best of both worlds and span multiple uses outdoors.
A daypack can be one of your most trusted possessions when it comes to your kit. Get it right and it will feel comfortable for endless hours and be with you for a really long time. We hope our guide to the best out there as well as our individual reviews for each and our buying advice has helped you decide on the right option for you.
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