Hiking is awesome.

The meeting of humankind and nature on a brisk hike can inspire and invigorate and comes with an abundance of health benefits.

I hike because I love to be in nature and experience the beauty around me. The polluted city air pales in comparison to the brisk fresh air of a nearby state park.

Beyond that, I love the journey and how each step moves me one foot closer to my goal of getting to the end.

As humans, we love accomplishing things, and there is nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment after you have reached the peak of a tall mountain.

Though hiking can be a cost-free pursuit, there are many ways to enhance the experience. Having a comfortable, lightweight backpack is one of the ways to do that.

I'm going to look at the best hiking backpacks, taking into account a range of specifications that can improve your long walks in the wilderness.

From capacity to cost to durability, our hiking backpack reviews cover the top backpacks on the market in terms of quality, comfortability, and price among other things.

Best Backpacks For Hiking – Article Structure

As mentioned earlier, we measured the lightweight design with the overall durability and quality of construction when choosing our top packs.

We also considered other factors such as breathability, cool features and organization, and of course overall value. Without a doubt, we only chose brands that had an excellent reputation in the marketplace and have been known to deliver on everything they say they do over time.

The way we structured this article is in three parts in this order:

1) Hiking Backpack Buyer’s Guide – If you are interested, we tell you what to look for in a hiking backpack and what we used to rate our top packs. If you just want to see the top packs for each category, just skip down to section 3, 4, or 5. In each of the three sections we listed our “Editors Choice” Top pick along with our “Best Value” pick for affordability.

2) Top Hiking Backpack Brands – In this portion, we shared our favorite brands among the many to choose from in the market place. Again, we only mention the best.

3) Best Extended Trip Hiking Backpacks (5+ Day Trips) – First, we outlined the best extended trip hiking backpacks for those going on those long hiking and camping trips that go for a week or longer. The packs are larger in size, but are still great to use.

4) Best Multi-Day Hiking Backpacks (2-6 Day Trips) – Next, we laid out the top multi-day hiking backpacks that serve the needs of those hikers going on trips for longer than a day, but shorter than a full week.

5) Day Hiking Backpacks (1 Day Trips) – Finally, we noted the top 5 packs for those day hikers out there. As always, we made clear the absolute best day packs for hiking and gave a few options at the end that serve the affordable consumer well.

Feel free to skip down to whatever section you are looking for or read through the whole article if you want to be best informed on the top hiking packs on the market.

After finishing the article, we recommend our latest list of the Top 10 Day Hikes in all of the United States. I hope you check out a couple!

Hiking Backpack Buyers Guide

As hiking has evolved as a hobby, so too has the required gear.

The breadth of backpacking gear on the market can be overwhelming. Let's take a look at some of the important factors you want to consider when choosing your next backpack.

Size

The needs of the backpack change based on the type of hiking trip you are going to take.

Personal Needs should be at the top of your list of requirements when buying a new backpack. Each hiker’s needs are different. Think carefully about what yours are and choose your backpack accordingly.

The most important aspect when deciding this is size. Sizing of backpacks are made in liters which is the amount of liters of water that could fill the backpack.

Hiking packs can range from smaller day-trippers of 20-40 liters (think 40 1-liter Nalgene bottles) to larger expedition sizes upwards of 75 liters. It's important to choose the capacity that's right for your trip.

Durability

Are the materials durable? Are the seams well stitched? Is there all-weather coating on the outer cover? There's a lot to think about in choosing the best-made backpacks.

It is incredibly important when buying a good hiking backpack as you want one that will endure all kinds of weather and terrain. No matter how hard you try to avoid it, your backpack will be abused by the great outdoors.

Hey, you’re in the great outdoors after all. It’s important to choose one that will be long-lasting and give you good value over time so you aren’t having to shell out more cash a year from now (unless you want a new one).

We only reviewed the best of the best hiking packs and ones that had an excellent reputation and that lasted the test of time.

Frame

Internal frames are better at load bearing but because they hug the body, an external frame is better for ventilation.  Although often times the frame is overlooked, it is certainly something to consider depending on the climate you're hiking in.

Unique Features

The features certainly of a pack certainly play a role. The features should be matched along with your personal needs.

Will you be hiking on terrain that requires a lot of tools and extra accessories?  Then you need a back with big belt loops and lots of pockets.

Will you be sleeping outdoors? A camper will soon feel the benefit of a special compartment for a sleeping bag or wet laundry. We certainly made sure to consider the best camping backpack reviews in our extended trip choices.

Price

The price should feature less prominently on your list of requirements as a backpack is a long-term investment.

However, for many, it is still important.

Casual hikers can afford to look at cheaper models, while serious trekkers will see the benefit of more expensive lightweight materials and construction that provides durability through any journey.

If you are going to take hiking seriously, take your pack serious as well.

Best Hiking Backpack Brands

As you will come to notice, I mostly recommend the following three brands in my hiking pack reviews: Osprey for overall quality and versatility, Deuter in a close second, and lastly Teton as our value pick for those looking for a great backpack at an affordable price.

We also really liked CamelBak for the shorter range hikes as their packs are smaller and lightweight with an awesome hydration bladder system. As mentioned later, I simply love using the CamelBaks.

Let's take a closer look at them below.

Osprey

Hailing from the state that gives us Silicon Valley and Hollywood, this Californian company is incredibly innovative in its backpack design and is relentless in their quality control and customer service.

Born in 1974, it now dominates the hiking backpack industry and continues to build on its pioneering reputation.

It is a well-known and the natural choice for buyers given its popularity, ubiquity on the trails and overall reliability.

It’s fair to say that your first Osprey may be your last backpack purchase for years to come due to great manufacturing and legendary service.

The company offers a lifetime warranty, showing serious confidence in the product. They gladly repair or replace (if necessary) any backpack anytime!

​Below you will find reviews of the best Osprey backpacks available on the market today.

Deuter

Deuter is a serious heavy-hitter on the hiking backpack market.

Founded in Germany in 1898, this company used to provide the bags for Bavarian Royal Mail.  Now that is some serious backpacking cred!

From there, the company continued to grow and has long been one of the first choices of suppliers for European expeditions, and has provided gear for the German Olympic team for many years.

These bags are well-designed, durable, and innovative.

TETON Sports

TETON Sports boasts cheaper prices than most big names on the market.

For casual hikers who are more cost conscious, this could be a better overall choice. What you gain in extra money in your pocket, you perhaps lose in lightweight build and clever design.

However, TETON Sports sees favorable reviews on a number of platforms even when tested over a longer period of time.

They make great backpacks and are really building a name for themselves among value conscious hikers, as well as some seasoned trekkers.

That among other things is why they’ve made our list.

Best Extended Trip Hiking Backpacks (5+ Day Trips)

Are you about to go to a faraway adventure (or nearby park)?  Do you need lots of space to keep all of your gear, clothing, and food?  If you are going on a trip of 5 days or more it might be best to get a full sized hiking bag.

Below, we start with our top picks and finish with our best affordable hiking backpacks choices which offer a super backpack at a great price.

Backpacking Backpack Reviews| Comparison Chart​

Let’s begin by taking a look at my first choice among the extensive trips section of our backpacking reviews.

1) Osprey Aether 70 Backpack


The Osprey Aether 70 is an incredibly lightweight backpack that has both the volume and the usefulness for longer treks.

It’s no wonder why it is our overall top pack and the most comfortable hiking backpack that we reviewed or tested.

The range of pockets offer superb ease of organization, and the hip belt has storage for tools and those all-important snacks.

You'll feel like batman when considering the usefulness of the waist belt.

Design and comfortability is right at the center of the positive feedback when reviewing this backpack.

Zippers have large loops that make access easy when on the move or when wearing large gloves, and the chest strap buckle will share your load more evenly.

Ventilation is great due to the AirScape back panel which makes it feel cool when you are burning up inside. The additional features, including the safety whistle and hydration panel are the icing on the cake and make this backpack a true all-star.

The Aether also comes in a nice looking women’s model as well that ranks as the best women’s 70 liter pack.

2) Osprey Aether 85 Backpack

Need a little extra size for a slightly longer hike?

Osprey also offers an 85 liter pack to make the longest of journeys an absolute breeze.

This pack tops our list as the best thru hike backpack due to its spacious size matches its great features.

With all the cool features of the Osprey Aether 70 it might be worth it to size up a little bit if you have a lot of gear or food to carry on your next camping trip.

The pack offers nice hip belt pockets to keep your phone or camera handy with you at all times in case you see a bear and want a quick pic.

Hopefully, you don’t see one (unless you live life on the wild side), but either way it is nice to have handy pockets where you don’t have to set your pack down every time you want to grab a snack.

It’s got a nice wide mouth opening sleeping bag compartment and is well organized on the inside to keep your clothes and other items easily accessible.

If you need a little extra space and want the best of the best packs for hiking on the longest of trips, go with the Osprey Aether 85.

We promise, it won’t let you down.

3) High Sierra Appalachian 75

A new edition to the list is the High Sierra Appalachian 75.

We have found there packs to be well put together structurally without sacrificing comfortability and coolness.

The contoured frame bar shapes nicely to the structure of your back. Without a doubt, we loved the simplicity of the pack and how easy it was to change sizes to fit to your particular hiking build.

The pack is very spacious on the inside with 75 liters of space. A few convenient pockets on the outside complete the outstanding features of the High Sierra Appalachian 75.

With a few color choices to choose from, we know you will like the stylish appeal of the Appalachian 75 while being sold at a mid-range value price point.

Click below to check the latest price.

4) Deuter ACT Lite 65+10 Backpack

The Deuter ACT Lite is a serious hiker's backpack.

The extremely durable material and abundance of different sized pockets accounts for some extra weight compared to other backpacks, but its utility and supreme construction are worth it.

The lid has gear attachment loops that won't break under the weight of ice axes, wrenches, and other considerable hiking tools.

The lightweight X frame, adjustable back length, and anatomically shaped shoulder straps make this pack a comfortable and a sturdy choice.

The stretch pockets, wet laundry department and additional 10L of storage round out the features on this excellent backpack.

5) Mountaintop 70L+10L Hiking Backpack

Making the pick for “Best Value” in the extended trips category of hiking backpacks is none other than the Mountaintop 70L+10L pack.

At a great price point at below a hundred bucks at the time of the article, we found this pack superb in quality and even better in price.

The pack offers 10 excellent compression straps which makes shrinking the large size down easy to do and store away on an airplane.

The back length is effortlessly adjustable to allow the pack to fit for your actual height.

Like a few of the other packs listed, they offer a built in rain cover to protect you on your long journey in case of inclement weather.

If you are hesitant to try out this newer hiking brand, you should feel secure to know that Mountaintop offers a 90-day limited manufacturer’s warranty in case anything goes wrong.

Best Multi-Day Hiking Backpacks (2-5 Day Trips)

Going on a long hiking or camping trip, but don’t want a humongous backpack that holds you back at the airport or weighs you down in the final days?

We put together a list of our five best multi-day hiking backpacks that best suit those hikers going on 2-5 day trips.

Multi-Day Hiking Backpacks Comparison Chart​

Personally, I like the mid-range size the most as it is not too big to weigh you down, but at the same time is versatile enough to go on long trips.  

If you pack well it can even be used on short day hikes if needed.

Check out our outstanding list below.

1) Osprey Atmos 65 AG Backpacks


This backpacks key word is “comfort.”

The ExoForm/ BioStretch shoulder raps and breathable back-panelling make for a very enjoyable hiking experience. The hip strap design also provides great weight distribution.

A little smaller than the Aether 70, this weekend warrior our choice for the best 3 day backpack. The Atmos is very light and sports some great features.

The pockets are well positioned and allow for easy access to water bottles and accessories while still on the move.

The removable lid pocket also means that each hiker has more control over what the backpack looks and feels like on each individual hike.

Have a lighter trek?

Simply take the lid off and leave it at home. There are still plenty of pockets you can use.

2) Osprey Stratos 50 Liters Backpacks

For those looking for that nice midrange backpack, we believe Osprey delivers yet again with this exceptional 50 liter hiking backpack.

It’s perfect for those shorter weekend trips without holding you back on those longer weeklong trips. We found this pack to be just the right size for success.

**Key to note, it is not too big or obtrusive to take with you when you travel so for me, that is a real plus.

Beyond that, we really liked the comfortable inside out compression straps and well-padded hip belt to keep the weight of the pack distributed to where your power come from, the legs.

Perhaps the coolest feature that we liked is the integrated rain cover to keep your clothes and gear dry during those wet and blistery conditions.

Personally, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve regretted not having a rain cover during wet outings.

There are an excellent array of pockets found all around the pack. Without a doubt, we know you will come to love the Osprey Stratos 50 as we do.

This is without a doubt our best 50 liter backpack choice.

3) TETON Sports Scout 3400 Backpack

This TETON offering wins on overall value alone.

However, the Scout 3400 is a great backpack with durability and style beyond its modest price.

At 55L it's considerably smaller than my first choice, but once again, if your treks demand less gear than this may be the backpack for you.

The adjustable torso length means that you can fit this bag to your stature, and its smaller size makes it suitable as carry on luggage if your hike requires air travel to get there.

There's a bottom compartment for a sleeping bag, and a bungee strap up front should you wish to bring a sleeping pad or additional outerwear.

Altogether, great value for your money and we know you will like this pack.

4) Deuter Aircontact 60 + 10 SL Pack

The second Deuter backpack on my list is the Aircontact 60+10 SL Pack.

At 60L, plus an additional 10L of storage space this pack is closer in size to my TETON Sports selection, but with the range of storage available it shouldn't be written off for longer hikes.

Given it's size, the ACT Trekking Lite is naturally much lighter than the other models listed here, and the beauty of this pack is that the anatomic X frame and highly breathable back will make it feel even lighter still.

The adjustable back size and removable 10L of storage allow you to fit this pack to your needs.

We have found that the pack comfortably distributes the weight evenly throughout the pack.

Like the ACT Lite above in the extrended trips category, it is also compatible with hydration systems and has attachments for ice poles and other tools if needed.

5) OutdoorMaster Hiking Backpack 50L

We took a stab and decided to review another up and coming brand in the hiking space.

The OutdoorMaster 50 liter backpack delivers a great pack at an even better price point.

Although perhaps not the swiftest looking multi-day pack that we have reviewed, we wanted to make sure to offer an option for those extra cash conscious hikers.

The price it is selling at is unbelievably low for the amount of space and size that it represents (50 liters).

Just like the Osprey Stratos backpack listed above, OutdoorMasters offers a rain cover to keep the pack dry during heavy rain. A very nice add on if I do say so myself.

Still, we found the pack to be very comfortable while having some useful organizing pockets, and a respectable waist strap to properly distribute the weight of the pack.

If you are looking for a good multi-day pack at a fantastic price, for sure this OutdoorMaster hiking backpack is the way to go.

Best Day Hiking Backpacks (1 Day Trips)

Once again, Osprey easily finds itself at the top of our list for the top backpack for day hikes.

They have an excellent brand and reputation that has held up over time. But beyond that, it is clearly the luxury brand in the hiking marketplace as they pride themselves on top quality packs that are durable and comfortable.

Day Hiking Packs Comparison Chart​

If you are about to embark on another day hike, grab yourself one of the best daypacks on the market.

Just click the titles or images below to see Amazons amazing prices and fast shipping.

1) Osprey Packs Talon 22 Backpack

2) Osprey Daylite Backpack

Okay, so you are probably thinking by this point, wow I am sick of hearing about Osprey.

Sorry about that, but we only recommend the best of the best and Osprey delivers on all their packs.

Just like the Osprey Talon 22 listed above, these daypacks have awesome front-zippered pocked and organizers throughout the pack making grabbing snacks on a the go a breeze.

Just like all their packs, the ventilation is second to none which makes those hot, sweaty hikes much less miserable.

Whether you are going hiking, biking, or just for a long walk, this is yet another great choice for your next daypack.

Deuter, a German brand, delivers on great quality and excellent feel.

You will not be surprised to find great reviews for their packs all over the world and particularly the Speed Lite daypack delivers on all phases of the game.

It has a nice padded and breathable back panel to keep you comfortable along the journey.

Really not too many negatives of note on this pack unless you carry large water bottles like a 32-ounce Nalgene. We have found the side pockets to be a tad too small to hold them.

Priced securely in the same range as Osprey, we think you will like this Deuter Speed Lite Backpack if you decide to make that choice.

Check them out below…

4) CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack

CamelBak is yet another powerhouse in the hiking industry.

They deliver some totally rad daypacks with a really cool water hydration system.

Just like in anything, drinking water is so crucial to keeping you fresh and hydrated on your dayhike. CamelBak has delivered on this with their fun to use water hydration systems.

Seriously, I actually enjoy drinking water when I can use there easy to use water nozzle where I can easily sip water without even lifting a finger. You just fill up the hydration bladder and then you are good to go.

Beyond the cool water hydration system, we found this pack to be very comfortable and we absolutely loved its low profile design.

Just like Osprey, CamelBak offers superb customer service and a lifetime guarantee on all their packs.

If you want an excellent pack and need a fun way to drink water, we think you should go with this sweet CamelBak Cloud Walker 18.

5. TETON Sports Oasis 1100 Hydration Backpack

We have found TETON Sports to be the up and comer in the outdoor hiking industry.

As the brand is newer and less established, we saw that their packs are priced considerably less than some of the other high reputation brands listed above.

Due to the excellent price point, the TETON Sports Oasis 1100 easily makes our best value pick for hiking daypacks.

Beyond the great price, we loved that the pack was lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Just like the prodigious CamelBak Cloud Walker listed above, this pack comes with a nice 2 liter hydration bladder to make sipping water a cinch.

In case you are afraid to try out a newer brand like TETON Sports, just know that they offer an excellent customer service and a limited lifetime warranty.

Ready for an excellent daypack at a great price, we think you will love the TETON Sports Oasis 1100 pack.

Conclusion: What Is The Best Hiking Backpack?

Do you feel like an expert in the hiking backpack world yet?

We hope you have learned a few things and are left with a good understanding of the best hiking backpacks for when the time is right for your next investment.

Buying the best trekking backpack that accompanies you on the lightest of walks to the most straining of journeys is no small task. There is plenty to consider when making your choice, from size, to utility, to durability.

All of the choices I've outlined in our reviews will make a hiker happy; they are all great products and we wouldn’t recommend them otherwise.

What's most important is to look at the kind of terrain you will cover and the conditions you encounter and make your search from there.

So by now, you might be wondering, "Which hiking backpack do I choose?"

Well, for one, we tried to make it easy for you, we made our “Editors Choice” top picks in each of the three sections above.

Smaller, simpler daypacks like the CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 or lightweight multi-day packs like the Osprey Stratos 50 will make strenuous hikes faster and are generally less work.

But if you are going on a long hiking adventure where you will be camping out for many nights (5+ nights) we definitely recommend shelling out the dollars to purchase a high reputation, proven bag like the Osprey Aether 70. There’s always more stuff to pack than you originally think.

Sizing is important so make sure you go with the correct size that matches the length of your trip.

Whatever your choice, happy trekking! Let us know where your next hiking adventure leads you.

There is a lot resting on a good waterproof backpack.

In both cases, we only chose backpacks with an established reputation where we have found their packs to hold up well and maintain quality, while still at the same time shedding out the rain.

Whether you are using this pack for your daily commute to the office or for your next hiking excursion, we believe you will like these packs.

2) Under Armour Storm Hustle II

The Under Armour Storm Hustle II offers another nifty water resistant pack with some unique aspects to its design.

First, for those usual commuters who like to take their work with them wherever they go, there is a 15" soft-lined sleeve for laptops.

The front is also water-repellent for any valuables you might take with you be it papers or electronics.

The bag has a very simple layout with no chest strap, so be careful when carrying very heavy loads as you will miss that weight distribution.

As well as being well constructed overall, the bottom panel is very tough for travellers that aren’t very careful when setting their backpack down.

Under Armour makes great products and quite frankly, we know you will like this wonderful new pack.​

​Best Hiking Backpack Raincover

Osprey Ultralight Raincover

Before I begin, it’s worth mentioning that if you already have a hiking backpack you’re comfortable with and don’t wish to swap it out for a waterproof pack, it’s worth considering a waterproof cover for your bag.

Many of the top brands for the top hiking backpacks have some level of water resistance to them so it is not like you are making a huge sacrifice to buy a rain cover and order a top brand.  

Personally, I really like this UltraLight Raincover from Osprey (and we know you will too).  

Click the button below to check out the latest pricing on Amazon...

Best Waterproof Backpacks For Hiking

We know you are here to see the best waterproof ​hiking backpacks and we have done just that. We compiled an excellent list of the tried and tested waterproof hiking backpacks (plus an honorable mention).

 Check the list out below and find the one that best suits your needs...

1)Patagonia Black Hole 25L Backpack

The Patagonia Black Hole backpack is as serious as its name suggests.

This sleek black bag is one of the best waterproof backpacks available online.

Its glossy aesthetic appearance is a walking advertisement for its water repellent construction. Though the high-shine finish may not be for everyone.

Made from ripstop fabric, the Patagonia Black Hole is a tough bag that will see you through all the elements, no matter the load.

A chest strap will also ensure there isn't too much movement or slippage on the move.

You'll be grateful for this extra stability if the heaven's open and the walking floor becomes slippery.

Top-loaded and well-padded, you can trust this pack to keep all your important goods safe wherever your off to.

2) Aqua Quest Sport 30 Pro

One of the more expensive packs on my list is the Aqua Quest Sport 30 Pro.

This backpack is 100% waterproof but is still lightweight compared to some other waterproof models on the market.

The use of ripstop fabric makes this a durable choice, while the range of pockets gives this pack a versatile edge over some of its competitors.

The straps are broad, well-padded and comfortable while the chest and hip straps add that all-important stability.

This is a serious backpack for hikers who expect very wet conditions and who are carrying valuables such as HD cameras and laptops.

3) Phantom Aquatics Walrus 25 Waterproof Backpack

This roll-top 100% waterproof backpack from Phantom Aquatics makes the cut as the last of my five choices in the quest for the best waterproof backpack.

This pack is one of the more comfortable options available with its padded shoulder straps and great airflow at the back. With all straps connected, it also fits snugly to the body.

Though it is totally waterproof, there are some problems with condensation on the inside in hotter conditions.

So keep that in mind if you plan to use this bag in warmer environments.

The roll-top means your possessions are especially secure, while the choice of pockets allows you to organize the bag perfectly to your needs.

The top feature of this backpack is that if dropped in the water it floats. For those clumsy hikers like myself, that’s a useful benefit.

Sea to Summit Flow 35L Backpack 

**Honorable Mention**

The Sea to Summit Flow Backpack 35L is a fully waterproof backpack with a few excellent features.

The waist strap is removable to suit your needs, and there is a hydration pouch separate from the dry compartments. It is well ventilated and has lots of padding on the back panel for increased comfort.

This pack is very large and does appear bulky at first glance. There are also a lot of straps that could annoy buyers who prefer a cleaner profile.

However, all that bulk and padding makes it a durable bag, and something of an investment if you plan on being out in wet conditions.

Summing It Up: Picking Your Pack

The importance of a pack that will keep your possessions safe cannot be overstated.

We take risks with our personal safety and our goods when we're hiking or just out and about, and the weather is an ever changing beast.

Therefore, it's important to invest in a backpack that will keep you and your valuables safe.

I've looked at a broad range of packs above. Buying a nice backpack should be considered an investment, so it's important to consider your personal needs before making your final choice.

Think about space required, the conditions you plan to be in whether it be hiking or just daily commutes or short travels. If you travel or live in a place where it rains from time to time, it would probably be best to go with the top waterproof backpack, the Kopack Slim Business Backpack.

However, hikers that enjoy rainy climates, might be inclined to go with the Patagonia Black Hole 25L as it was our top waterproof hiking backpack.​

Whatever your choice, we have no doubt it will be a good one.  

We hope you liked our choices for the best waterproof backpacks in 2019.

Let us know what water resistant or waterproof backpack you like best.

Hiking can be a serious business.

Not only do you have to pack all-weather clothes and provisions, you also feel the weight more as you begin to tire.  So why add extra pounds with any old backpack?

In this detailed article, we want to provide you some great recommendations for lightweight comfortable backpacks that won’t slow you down when you’re on the hiking trail.

As fabric technology develops so too does outdoor gear design. Bags are getting lighter and lighter, which is great news for us hikers who want to stay light on our feet.

Here, I'm going to look at our top five best ultralight backpacks, focusing on design, weight, durability, and versatility.

Hopefully, I can do enough of the heavy lifting so you don't have to.

My best picks of lightweight day packs feature Osprey, CamelBak, and Deuter models.

They are some of the heavyweights in the hiking industry and for good reason. They deliver extremely comfortable and long lasting hiking backpacks with a name you can trust.

Top Weekend/ Day Hiking Backpacks (1-2 Days)

1) Osprey Packs Talon 22 Backpack

The first lightweight day pack on my list is the Osprey Packs Talon 22.

The people at Osprey say that this pack will 'cling to your back like a frightened monkey' and to be honest we have found that they're not wrong.

The back panel with foam ridges hugs the body and is delightfully breathable, while the chest strap will keep the pack stable when you're moving over uneven terrain.

The interior is roomy and the features are versatile. Side mesh pockets give you plenty of options for storage.

The bags are almost unbelievably lightweight, but yet doesn’t sacrifice in the quality of the materials or overall structure of the pack. This is a tough little bag that you'll be hiking with for a long time.

Most importantly, this daypack comfortably fits to your back and is so lightweight that you won’t even notice it on you during your hike.

​

2) Osprey Daylite Backpack


The Osprey Daylite is the second pack from this Californian company on my list.

While the Talon 22 has a multitude of features, the Daylite has a much simpler concept. The body of the bag is streamlined and the outer pockets are limited.

The designers have kept the chest strap for stability, and the back panel has plenty of padding while maintaining breathability.

Features include a key clip and large loops and buckles, so you have access to the pack on the move.

The Daylite is a great size for a lightweight day pack, with enough room for all your hiking essentials.

​

3) Deuter Speed Lite 20 Backpack

Deuter have dominated the outdoor gear market since their beginnings in the 19th Century.

You can trust that with their experience and talent, they produce some of the best ultra light backpacks on the market.

The Deuter Speed Lite is no exception to this German company's classy reputation.

The pack has a grab handle, and nicely padded shoulder straps, with added stability from a hip belt and chest strap. The mesh back is comfortable adding to the pack's lightweight feel.

The main compartment's zippers have large loops which are great for attaching accessories or for opening the pack without stopping.

​

4) CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack

This is a perfect sized bag for a day hike.

Fitting easily onto my list of the best lightweight backpacks, the CamelBak Cloudwalker 18 is as light and as breezy as its name suggests.

Quite frankly, it’s like walking on clouds. Not really, but anyways it sounded cool.

The ripstop fabric makes the CamelBak Cloudwalker incredibly durable without losing any of its airiness. There is also a central air channel in the back panel that promises a comfortable hike no matter the climate.

This pack's key feature however is the hydration bladder.

With your bag organized and ready to go, you don't need to worry about water bottles slipping out of side pockets as the hydration bladder has you covered.

​

5) Deuter Race X Hiking Bag

Deuter proves once again that they make some of the top lightweight backpacks available with the Race X.

As the name suggests, this pack is about speed, airiness and cool.

Starting with speed, the design is bright, bold and smart. Well-marked pockets and zippers make organizing your pack easy and fast.

You won't be fumbling with this bag when on the move or in cold temperatures.

Mesh shoulder straps means the Hiking Race X is very breathable and the central airstrip in the back panel aids further airflow.

In terms of cool, the design is edgy and confident; you won't be missed when out in the wilderness.

Unsiex Version

Top Multi-Day Hiking Backpacks (3+ Days)

Although the daypack reviews above are considerably lighter and best for shorter trips. There comes a time when you will need a pack for longer than a few nights.

When these longer trips come into play you will need to pick up one of the best multi-day hiking backpacks to carry all your clothes, equipment, and food.

Below, we outline our three favorites and offer a best value cheaper option at the end.

1) Osprey Aether 70 Backpack

If you can’t tell by now we are huge Osprey fans.

I have used there packs consistently as they make arguably the best packs on the market. They have a great reputation and it is for good reason.

Although the daypacks are much lighter, Osprey does a great job of putting in great lightweight, but durable materials in all there packs.

We love the LightWire frame that transfer the weight to the hipbelt and makes it easier to carry around all the heavy equipment.

As expected, this pack has oodles of great compartments for storing all your gear and sleeping equipment.

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2) Osprey Atmos 65 AG Backpacks

Osprey again put out another excellent multi-day pack at a slightly smaller frame than the one listed above.

But yet, it is still comparable at 65 Liters size.

They have excellently comfortable straps and the hip belt is fantastic.

The pack comes with a nice adjustable harness and a top lid that comes off if needed. In case you doubt it’s comfort, the company boasts an anti-gravity suspension providing it with a perfect fit.

Personally, we love this pack and we have found that this pack has rated out as high as any pack out there.

If you are ready for a new, lightweight hiking backpack, we know this one will satisfy all your needs.

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3) TETON Sports Scout 3400

Teton Sports easily makes our best value option in the top lightweight hiking backpacks category.

The pack has great comfortability at a 55 liter capacity (slightly less room than the previous two offerings). The pack is wonderfully lightweight at less than 5 pounds.

It is important to note that we found this pack to be a little less comfortable and the pockets not nearly as accessible as the Ospreys listed above.

However, that is to be expected at a much lower price point.

In case you are hesitant to try out a new brand, TETON Sports offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty and seems to really value satisfying their customers if something goes wrong.

If you are looking to save money and need a mid range multi-day pack, we believe the TETON Sports Scout 3400 is the way to go!

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Summing It Up: Picking The Best Pack

I've looked at some great, innovative ultra light backpacks from some of the best manufacturers on the market.

The top options range from the simple and straight-forward packs such as the Osprey Day Lite to versatile bags like the CamelBak Cloudwalker 18 with an included hydration bladder.

Before you choose your pack you should think about which style suits your needs best. If you use the pack for a variety of purposes, then more pockets will help you organize your day more.

However, if you want ease of use and roominess, then a simple pack like the Osprey Aether 70 will be more than likely be your style.

The wealth of packs available online can overwhelm you the buyer, but hopefully my guide has lightened your load.

Last Updated: September 19th, 2019

It's never been more important to step away from our electronics and dive into nature.

With the onset of smart devices and the demand for round-the-clock online contact, it can be hard to find significant time away from the internet.

Personal health retreats and mindfulness seminars are becoming more and more popular.

Quite frankly, we think there is nothing that gets the blood flowing and invigorated in nature like a nice day hike.

That's what makes day trekking so beneficial. We can fill our lungs with fresh air and still be home in time to finish projects or be back home for the big game at night.

Want to know what the best day hiking backpack is?  

We’ve got you covered, just check out the below chart or the in-depth product reviews of our favorite 5 below.

Day Backpack Reviews Comparison Chart

What To Look For In A Daypack

Since we are only hiking for a day, our day hiking backpack reviews are focused on being comfortable, lightweight, and high quality.

Quite frankly, we wanted a pack that can easily be taken on an airplane, but still have the storage and versatility to handle an intense day hike.

Thus, we put a premium on packs with great ventilation, handy pockets, and an overall comfortable feel. We certainly don’t want a pack that is a hindrance in its design or holds you down in any way.

Top 5 Hiking Daypacks

Osprey made the top of my list of best backpack brands.

Particularly, we love Osprey because of their excellent reputation and world renown lifetime warranty. They will repair or replace (if needed) any backpack purchased!

Still not convinced?  

Take a look at the 5 minute video on the Osprey backpack production process and see how much time and effort is put into each and every pack.

Below, we’ll look at the five best day hiking backpacks for each one’s budgets and needs. If you are going to take hiking serious, it’s time to take your hiking backpack serious.

1. Osprey Packs Talon 22 Backpack

The Osprey Talon is a technical backpack that is a sure favorite for many day backpackers and we believe it is the best Osprey daypack.

Lightweight with breathable webbing, this pack is all about comfort. As a day backpack, it is simple but has some keen features should you need them like a trekking pole attachment and an ice tool attachment.

This mid-sized backpack is great for brisk walks or even adventure runs. If you're into more challenging excursions this pack provides plenty of space for all your gear.

Looking for a daypack with a hip belt?  

Well, this one has you covered so you can easily distribute more weight to your legs and less weight to your shoulders. The hip belt has a nice cushiony padding to prevent soreness at the hips.

Beyond that, the webbing,straps and hip belt are adjustable which means you can fit this nifty pack to your own needs, and be right on your way.

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2. Osprey Daylite Backpack

Yet, another on the top of our hiking daypack reviews list is the Osprey Daylight backpack.

This is the second Osprey backpack we recommend and is perfect for those short adventures in you.

This pack is all about simplicity. It is light and does not overwhelm with a plethora of pockets and loops. They seemed to think through every feature and possible need you might havein a day hike.

The Daylite is a well-constructed backpack with room for a hydration bladder, large zippers that are easy to use while on the move and a handy key clip.

The side pockets are a little on the large side, so it's recommended you accessorize your bottles to the bag so as not to lose them on a trek.

Overall, this is a top in class backpack and well worth a place on this list.

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3. Deuter Speed Lite Backpack

With over one hundred years of pack-making experience, Deuter is a heavy hitter in outdoor gear and its backpack easily makes our list of the best backpacks for day hikes.

The Deuter Speed Lite is no exception to the company's well-deserved reputation.

As the name suggests, this is a light pack intended for speed on the ground for its wearer.

With a breathable, nicely shaped back it should be comfortable no matter what climate you're hiking in.

With a chest and hip belt, it's got double the lateral support of many daypacks, giving it more stability for faster hikes or wilderness races.

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4. CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack

The CamelBak day hiking backpacks are fantastic.

They are the name brand for their legendary hydration pack systems, but we have also found them to make excellent ultra-lightweight hiking packs.

Incredibly versatile, this pack is as at home on the daily commute as it is in unforgiving terrain. Featuring a superb water reservoir makes drinking water easy to do and fun to use.

I remember when I got my first Camelback, it was like discovering a new and better way to hike.

I wondered why I ever wasted the time lugging around water bottles when I could just drink it from the smooth effortless camelback suction cup.

I enjoyed using it so much that I even considered using it in my workplace.

But then I thought otherwise when I thought of all the weird looks I would get (I would only have to go to the water cooler once a day...).

As mentioned, this Camelback is extremely lightweight and very comfortable. If you have some weighty items inside, it featuresa nice cushiony straps. The chest strap provides security when scaling rocky slopes or navigating overgrown forest floors.

It is light and sturdy and has enough room for towels, snacks, and other essentials with its organizer pockets and side compressions.

Beyond all that, Camelback offers a lifetime warranty on all their packs in case anything ever goes wrong. It’s a can’t lose offer!

We think you will find this pack perfect for your next day hike.  Check out the pricing on the men and women's versions below by clicking on the image.

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5. TETON Sports Oasis 1100 2 Liter Hydration Backpack

The final entry on my daypack reviews list is the small, but sturdy TETON Sports Oasis 1100 2 Liter Hydration Backpack.

Due to its excellent price point, this bag easily wins the best value award.

Loaded with cool features, this pack is like the Camelback mentioned above and has an excellent hydration pack system for sipping water throughout your hike.

It’s small and lightweight with multiple pockets to make it very useful for carrying things during your day hike. It's suitable for a day at school or the office, but still tough enough for the weekend warrior in you.

Just like the brands we have listed in all our day hiking pack reviews, they offer an excellent limited lifetime warranty and superb customer service.

We have found that if you have a problem, they will for sure take care of it. They know their reputation is at stake and they deliver on their promises.

If you are looking to save some money and still get a great daypack, we believe this TETON Sports offering may just be your best bet!

It’s important to note that like Deuter, TETON Sports seeks to provide backpacks that are made for both men and women and thus their backpacks offer a nice unisex feel to them.

Both links below will take you to the same backpack.

Conclusion: What’s The Best Daypack?

What was your favorite backpack on the list?

Are you looking for comfort and a lightweight build, or versatility and durability?

We hope we gave you a nice list to choose from to fit your particular needs. Whichever backpack you choose, make sure it matches your personal needs and is stylish enough for you to take with you on your next hike.

Ultimately, we believe the best packs are not only useful and comfortable, but are long-lasting over time. For that reason, we only recommended high-quality packs with an outstanding reputation in the hiking marketplace.

That’s why we like the Osprey daypacks the most as they have the best reputation and some of the top backpacks in the hiking industry. We recommend you go with either the Osprey Talon 22 or Osprey Daypack.

But the choice is yours. You must be the judge in what you are looking for be it price point or overall quality as that will determine how successful your purchase is.

There’s a mountain of research on the variety of backpacks available and my hope is our list has clarified your options and brought you one step closer to your next wilderness adventure.