Best Hiking Daypacks of 2024

It is hard to determine the best hiking daypacks of 2024. Until now, our team tested hundreds of packs to narrow down the best twenty daypacks based on your needs.

By: Camping Feed Staff  |  Last Updated: December 05, 2023

There is no easy and obvious answer to what is the best hiking daypacks of 2024. Have you seen the number of small backpacks that are available on the market? Don’t worry. Over the past few months, our team at The Camping Feed Staff tested a bunch of hiking daypacks and put together this article to show you our findings.

We checked a number of factors like pack capacity, back panel design and shoulder straps. What we love about this selection is that there are packs to suit any taste out there and lots to choose from. Hiking daypacks are the best way for you to carry the majority of your supplies while keeping everything in easy reach and organized.

One of the most convenient things about hiking or car camping is that you don’t always have to lug around everything you might have to if you are camping. For example, you probably won’t need a sleeping bag, tent or fuel for a campfire with you on most trips. Daypacks are designed to hold only what you need for short trips so that you can comfortably carry it all over your body!

Here is the Camping Feed Staff’s selection of Top 20 Best Hiking Daypacks of 2024:

Best Overall Hiking Daypack

1. Osprey Talon 22

• Weight: 1.91 LBS – 2.04 LBS depending on pack size (s/m or l/xl)
• Load Capacity: 10-20 lbs, 4.57-9.07 litres
• Comfort: 4.9/5 Stars
• Durability: 4.5/5 Stars

• Pros: Great fit, perfect size for day trips, even great to wear biking, roomy and comfortable to wear for hours,
• Cons: Can feel a little small across the back, if you want a full 20 lb load capacity order the l/xl

The Osprey Talon 22 has won the best overall hiking daypack by all of us at the Camping Feed. From its adjustable torso length options to the zippered hip belt pockets and panel access, it is the perfect pack for any of your day trips. And, we even love to use it for biking excursions!

The hip pockets are easy to access and a perfect size for the size of the pack. The Talon 22 is built to last and made for comfort, as to be expected with all Osprey packs. And, it includes a top panel stash pocket with a zipper to make it easy to get in and out of the bag.

With a shoulder harness pocket and lid lock helmet attachment, we believe this is one of the best day hike packs on the market!

The Talon 22 is made intelligently, fits your body well, and is crafted from beautiful materials. With a more rigid frame than some of the other Osprey packs, its structure is small and thin. The back panel provides excellent ventilation, and it even includes a hydration sleeve for your bladder if you want to add it in.

Made of quality materials and parts, this pack is super durable. Due to its more rigid frame, you can easily carry 25 lbs on your back (especially if you order the l/xl pack size). And, if you have any issues with the product, you can work with Osprey and their significant warranty policies.

As you can see, Osprey’s Talon 22 is built to last and provide support from your next day hike to an outdoor biking excursion. With innovative features and space to carry food, water, tools, and anything else you might need for a walk or mountain bike trail, it’s perfect!

Best Ultralight Daypack

2. REI Co-op Flash 18 Pack

• Weight: 9 ounces
• Load Capacity: 18 liters
• Comfort: 4.8/5 Stars
• Durability: 3.5/5 Stars

• Pros: Super lightweight, good for day hikes, climbing or biking, great for teens, fun color, doesn’t take up much space so you don’t feel the weight of a pack while you climb, ample space for food and water
• Cons: Not the most durable, inner lining can peel off.

Weighing in at just 9 ounces, the REI Co-op Flash 18 pack is our favorite ultralight pack for day hikes. And, what we love, even more is that you can convert the pack into a stuff sack by just turning it inside out! At the Camping Feed, multiple uses for one pack are like a dream come true.

Made of nylon with pack access from the top, the REI Co-op Flash 18 is breathable and even includes a daisy chain where you can loop your ice ax!

The pack’s dimensions are 17 x 10 x 7 inches, and it is built with a hip belt that can be detached to make it even lighter. Also, you can use your reservoir with the pack so you can hike with water whenever you want.

Due to its lightweight nature, the pack’s straps stay light on your shoulders, keeping them from cutting into your shoulders. So whether you are traveling, kayaking, hiking, biking, or climbing, the REI Co-op Flash 18 is your solution to a lightweight back.

At the Camping Feed, we love that the zippers are easy to use, it’s easy to get your bladder in and out, there’s plenty of room to store your essentials like first aid and an extra layer of clothing,  and it runs true to size for most folk. And, we cannot get enough of the pack’s bright color!

The only con we have is that, depending on how often you use this lightweight pack, there is a chance the inner lining could begin to peel.

Best Budget Daypack

3. Teton Sports Oasis 1100

• Weight: 2 lbs (unfilled, without bladder)
• Load Capacity: 18 Litres
• Comfort: 4.6/5 Stars
• Durability: 3/5 Stars

• Pros: Large hydration pack included with the pack, chest strap includes a safety whistle, lifetime warranty, multiple colors available 
• Cons: Mouthpiece does not have cover, storage is minimal

If you are looking for a daypack without investing too much money in the purchase itself, then the Teton Sports Oasis 1100 may be the answer to your prayers.

Although the pack is not huge, there is enough space to carry your day trip essentials. And, with the 2-liter bladder that is included with the Oasis 1100, this pack is perfect for anyone who is looking for a hydration pack.

If you only want to store some protein bars, phone, wallet, keys, etc., this pack is a good option for you. The pack includes two water bottle holders on the sides (using elastic), and there are various clips that you can manually tighten or loosen to adjust your pack size easily. With barely visible stitching, the bag is constructed well.

Teton Sports Oasis 1100 includes a rain cover with a small pocket to keep it discreetly in your pack! Easily secured by velcro, it might be hard to find this discreet item on the pack unless you are looking for it.

At the Camping Feed, our biggest qualm with this pack was the bladder itself. There was a weird plastic taste that only disappeared after repeated washings. In addition, the mouthpiece is not made well, and the tube itself is long, so it does not always stay easily secured to the pack.

We are always a sucker for excellent customer service, and that is what you will find with Teton. So, even if you end up having issues with the hydration pack included with the Oasis 1100, you should find support from the Teton team and hopefully a resolution. 

Best Daypack for Comfort

4. Deuter Speed Lite 20

• Weight: 490 grams or 1.08 LBS
• Load Capacity: 20 L
• Comfort: 5/5 Stars
• Durability: 4/5 Stars

• Pros: Fun colors available, extremely comfortable with padded back, flexible and lightweight
• Cons: Does not carry a lot of weight so straps can start to press into shoulders if carrying too much

The Deuter Speed Lite 20 is a highly lightweight pack with a sternum belt that is easy to adjust. And, with a removable waist belt plus the stretch side pockets, you are set for a day out on the trails.

Whether you are hiking all day or to a swimming hole and back, the Speed Lite 20 even includes an inner compartment to hold your wet bathing suits, sweaty clothes, or an extra water reservoir. This pack’s dimensions are 18 x 10 x 7 inches.

At the Camping Feed, we believe the Speed Lite 20 is a genuine purpose-driven pack. We love it! It is small in size and great for day hikes. It does not carry a full load, so it is excellent for anyone who wants to have a few small items and a raincoat. It is light and durable and even works well as a carry-on item when you travel.

Although it would be challenging to carry something like a laptop and books in this pack, it is perfect for snacks, water bottles, clothing, or blankets.

If you are a taller person with broad shoulders, this pack, while comfortable, may be too small for your frame. And, if you choose to overload this pack with too many water bottles or heavier items, it does tend to place excess pressure on your shoulders. If you are looking for a pack that provides ample ventilation on your back, then we believe that this may not be the best pack for you.

Best Hydration Daypack

5. Osprey Syncro 12

• Weight: 1.72 lbs
• Load Capacity: 12 L
• Comfort: 4.6/5 Stars
• Durability: 4/5 Stars

• Pros: Excellent ventilation on your back, added stability on the shoulders to keep your pack mounted easily, built-in rain cover to keep your pack dry
• Cons: There is not as much storage as you would hope for once you pack each pocket

If you are looking for a pack that provides a little bit of storage and a lot of space to fill your 2.5L hydration pack, then the Osprey Syncro 12 is the perfect pack for you!

Built with quality materials and assembled with care, the Syncro 12 provides ample ventilation for your back with its rigid frame that keeps the pack lifted off of your body while remaining secure. The stellar ventilation paired with its large bladder makes this pack perfect for day hikes or mountain biking on a hot day.

The contoured shape of the Syncro 12 means that the pack will sit comfortably on your back. In addition, the pockets for additional water bottles ensure that you will remain hydrated for the entire duration of your hike!

This pack is easy to use and easy to clean. The frame makes it so you can wear the pack all day without back or shoulder pain. And, the zippers are high quality and easy to use while you are on the go. With a chest strap that is magnetized, it is easy to connect and disconnect. Innovation is at the core of Osprey’s Syncro 12!

At the Camping Feed, our biggest complaint with this pack is that, although there are many pockets, you cannot fill all of them at once and keep the bladder full. In addition, once you fill your hydration reservoir and the large bag, it becomes difficult to use the additional pockets available. But, besides that one qualm, we love this pack.

The Osprey Syncro 12 is by far the best hydration pack we’ve tested!

Best Protection Against Water

6. YETI Panga Airtight

• Weight: 3.9 lbs
• Load Capacity: 28 L
• Comfort: 3.5/5 Stars
• Durability: 4.6/5 Stars

• Pros: Fully waterproof backpack that keeps all water out, the zipper has a very tight seal, made out of a very dense material that is very durable
• Cons: Not great for long treks or cycling, not a lot of compartments in the pack to store in an organized manner

If you are looking for the perfect pack to take on waterfall hikes or to accompany you on your next all-day kayaking trip, then the YETI Panga Airtight is the answer to your prayers.

With a 100% fully waterproof pack, you do not have to worry about rain or trails with rivers. Instead, feel confident going straight through the water without having to adjust the placement of your entire pack!

Yeti’s zipper locks tightly, and the pack’s material is very durable to guarantee no water comes through the entire bag no matter how much pressure it is under outside.

Although the chest strap and waist belt are adjustable and removable for comfort, it is not the most comfortable pack on the market. Perfect for day hikes with water, as long as you are not overloading the body of the bag, you should be good to carry for hours.

You are looking for a pack that can protect your pricey photography or videography equipment? Then, Yeti’s Panga Airtight will deliver the results you want.

Whether you are going on an extended fishing trip, head to the beach, or on a kayak adventure, this pack will protect all of your dry clothing, wallet, keys, snacks, and towels. But, because there is only one large section to the bag, it isn’t easy to keep items fully organized once in the pack.

At the Camping Feed, we know that this is the best waterproof bag available on the market right now! Even though it is not perfect, it provides top-of-the-line protection to items that would be ruined by one drop of water. If you are ready to hit your next water spot without worrying, invest in the Panga Airtight.

Best Minimalistic Daypack

7. CamelBak Aurora

• Weight: 220 g / 7 oz / .43 lbs
• Load Capacity: 16.5 L (with 1.5L hydration capacity)
• Comfort: 4.2/5 Stars
• Durability: 4/5 Stars

• Pros: Adjustable sternum strap, lightweight, very breathable, small and mighty, leakproof
• Cons: sometimes the cap does not seal properly, can be tight on the shoulders after hours of biking

Camelbak’s Aurora is a highly lightweight pack that brings a punch!

For someone looking for a pack that provides just enough space for everything, this minimalistic pack holds all your essentials plus a bladder. But, if you need to carry a little more, there is the option of utilizing the storage pocket located outside the bag.

A few innovations to the bag make it easy for you to store and access vital tools like your pump easily. If you want something that easily holds enough water to hydrate throughout the day, and your keys, wallet, phone, first aid items, and protein bars/gels, Camelbak’s Aurora is definitely worth your attention.

The Aurora is 15.9 x 9.1 x 9.1 inches and has a padded back panel for continued comfort. In addition, there are four exterior pockets to make storing snacks for the trail easy!

Even though this minimalist pack is lightweight, it can store many bottles of water for its size. Also, with highly adjustable straps, it is not difficult to adjust on the go. But, if you are cycling for an extended amount of time, there is a chance the straps can cut into your shoulders.

At the Camping Feed, we love the simplicity and versatility of this pack. For a day hike, we love what the Aurora has to offer. Although it is not perfect for biking or running (because it is lightweight and does not have additional straps to secure it can bounce around a lot), it is a great family pack.

8. Kelty Redwing Backpack

• Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz
• Load Capacity: 36 L
• Comfort: 4/5 Stars
• Durability: 3.9/5 Stars

• Pros: A lot of space to carry larger loads, the internal frame helps to reduce pressure on your shoulders, back provides breathability, comes with a lifetime warranty
• Cons: Zippers are small, the pack is slightly taller than we thought it was going to be

The Kelty Redwing Backpack is 23 x 17 x 10 inches and can carry loads from a range of 20 to 30 pounds. The pack is easy to adjust and sits nicely on most bodies due to the easily adjustable hip and sternum straps.

There is ample room to store items in this pack, partially due to the bag’s internal frame. With the help of the hip straps, you can rely on the structure to help redirect pressure away from your shoulders and onto other places throughout the pack.

With side and top pockets that are easy to get to while you are out throughout the day, the Redwing backpack is a perfect daytime companion! Made of solid materials and assembled with care, this pack is relatively durable. Sometimes, parts of the bag can feel a little flimsy.

Weighing 2 lbs 9 oz, the Redwing backpack is slightly heavier than other packs on our list. It is heavier primarily due to the pack’s frame that provides better weight distribution throughout the bag. Therefore, as you begin to load in items you’ll need throughout the day, you will not necessarily feel the effects!

This pack’s zippers are a little small compared to the rest of the bag. But, you are still able to carry your necessities, from large water bottles to a first aid kit with snacks.

At the Camping Feed, we think the Kelty Redwing Backpack provides all the space and comfort you need for a great day out and about.

9. Osprey Farpoint 70

• Weight: from 3.75 – 3.92 lbs (depending on size s/m or l/xl)
• Load Capacity: 20 – 50 lbs, or  9.07 – 22.68 L
• Comfort: 3.5/5 Stars
• Durability: 4.6/5 Stars

• Pros: It can be used as a daypack and a or as a traditional travel bag.
• Cons: Back panel does not breathe well so can get hot after wearing for an extended time

The Osprey Fairpoint 70 is an excellent pack for day trips while backpacking different countries! It is very durable but has low breathability.

One of the defining features of the Fairpoint 70 is the fact that this pack is not top loading. Instead, the pack opens similarly to a suitcase, so you can access the entire body of the bag by unzipping.

As to be expected, the quality of this pack is very high. Osprey’s Fairpoint 70 is constructed well, and the stitching is sturdy. Although the pack’s color will fade over time, you can expect to have this bag for a while!

At the Camping Feed, we love the slightly larger capacity available in the Fairpoint 70. And, because it is almost a combination of a daypack and a more traditional travel bag, you can use it easily for both. In addition, the zippers can easily be locked in place with a TSA-approved lock to guarantee secure transfer under an airplane.

Whether you are looking for a pack to carry all of your valuable techs while traveling or something that can double as a carry-on throughout your backpacking adventures, the Fairpoint 70 is perfect for most pack needs. You can carry a week’s worth of clothing in the bag if required, including your toiletries, and will even have space for souvenirs to bring back home!

Because the back panel is not very breathable, this might not be the best pack to wear on an all-day excursion in the desert. But, the Osprey Fairpoint 70 seems to be appropriate for most other scenarios! 

10. Deuter Casual Daypack

• Weight: 2.36 lbs
• Load Capacity: 26 L
• Comfort: 4.6/5 Stars
• Durability: 4/5 Stars

• Pros: comfortable, rain cover included, trekking poles and helmet can easily be attached
• Cons: Stitching is a little rough, the back panel is not very ventilated

Deuter’s casual daypack is 8 x 4 x 4 inches and has enough space to accommodate a 3-liter hydration bladder. In addition, if you prefer to use trekking poles, this pack has a designated area to carry them when they are not in use. And, you can also store your helmet on the pack!

With a built-in rain cover, the pack needs to stay dry whenever the conditions shift to rain. The fit of the straps can accommodate anyone comfortable, and it is large enough to store your laptop safely.

If you are looking for a pack that you can wear all day with excellent ventilation, this may not be the best option to consider. The back panel is not fully ventilated, so it is possible that the pack can be uncomfortable if you are outside wearing it for 12 hours plus. And, the stitching in the pack is a little rough.

The side pockets on both sides of the pack guarantee a secure space to store your water bottles. And, with the additional eyelets located on the shoulder straps, you can easily attach carabiners. The main compartment is spacious enough to store all of your necessities (water, first aid kit, snacks, a change of clothing) and the smaller pockets are perfect for your phone, wallet, and keys.

Deuter’s Casual Daypack weighs 2.36 pounds and has a load capacity of 26 liters. At the Camping Feed, we appreciate the detachable torso and hip straps. And, we love the colors available.

11. Thule Capstone 22L

• Weight: 1.93 lbs
• Load Capacity: 22 L
• Comfort: 4.5/5 Stars
• Durability: 4.5/5 Stars

• Pros: very breathable back panel, lightweight, space for bladder and water bottles
• Cons: on the smaller side, recommended for half-day trips

Thule’s Capstone 22L is 9.4 x 10.6 x 20.9 inches and provides excellent breathability from its mesh back panel.

With a highly supportive, adjustable hip belt, you can receive support and even store your poles without taking off your backpack! This multipurpose hip belt also includes a pocket that can hold snacks or your phone while you are on the trails.

To guarantee your hydration, the Capstone can store your hydration bladder and up to two other water bottles on the side of the pack. In addition, the drink tube exit port is built into the pack, making it easy to access your water throughout the day.

At the Camping Feed, we found Thule’s Capstone to be slightly smaller than average packs. However, after doing some research, we found that this pack is listed as a half-day hiking pack. So, if you have a full day planned but you are traveling light, the Capstone could still be an excellent option for you.

Whether you are headed outdoors or on an airplane abroad, the Capstone provides you with comfort and flexibility. Available in two shades of blue, this pack offers high visibility and functionality.

With a click pole holder, you can easily snap your trekking poles onto your pack without having to stop or take them off. Stay agile on the trails!

The Capstone includes a removable rain cover that successfully keeps your pack dry, no matter how torrential the conditions. And, the zippered pocket at the top of the pack is perfect for your phone, a small wallet, and keys.

12. Oakley Men’s Kitchen Sink

• Weight: 4.2 lbs
• Load Capacity: 34 L
• Comfort: 3.9/5 Stars
• Durability: 4.8/5 Stars

• Pros: sturdy, multipurpose, compartments that can hold your laptop, dedicated space for shoes
• Cons: heavier pack

Oakley’s Men’s Kitchen Sink is an all-purpose, heavy-duty pack! Measuring 8 x 14 x 20 inches and weighing over 4 pounds, the Kitchen Sink has it all.

Whether you want a pack that easily stores your shoes, can fit a 17” laptop, or is made of abrasion-resistant fabric, you can find it all here. The reinforced zipper closures and clips help to keep everything connected.

The sturdy build of the Kitchen Sink makes it easy to travel with, and space available means you are prepared for any outing no matter where the day goes. But, we want to be clear, this is not a very low profile daypack.

Because the back panel is padded and the straps are made of mesh, the pack itself is constructed to provide air movement on your back. Breathability is key!

The specialized pockets in the pack help keep everything organized from the inside out. And, to make it easier to play music while you are trailblazing, Oakley’s Kitchen Sink includes a hard compartment for your media player.

The heavy-duty appeal of Oakley’s Kitchen Sink can appeal to any rugged outdoor enthusiast. Whether you are traveling on foot through the woods or by plane to another country, this pack is the perfect companion.

At the Camping Feed, we love the sturdy nature of this pack. Especially if you are on the trails with children, Oakley’s Kitchen Sink is perfect for holding it all because of space and organized pockets. Snacks, first aid kits, extra pairs of clothing, and sneakers are all easy to stow away in the Kitchen Sink.

13. Pacsafe Venturesafe GII

• Weight: 1.95 lbs
• Load Capacity: 25 L
• Comfort: 3/5 Stars
• Durability: 4.7/5 Stars

• Pros: RFID blocking material, anti slash material, zipper locks, lightweight
• Cons: Straps can sometimes be too long even after adjusting to the shortest option 

 Pacsafe’s Venturesafe GII is a great daypack, especially if you are traveling. Throughout the pack and the straps, Pacsafe has included wire reinforcements to help keep everything slash-proof for added safety in cities.

Venturesafe GII is lightweight and secure! With its security hooks, you can keep everything secured in the pack. And, even the zippers have been formulated to help keep pickpocketers away from your belongings.

This pack has several pockets and features that make it ideal for backpacking through Europe or taking a day hike. And, most of the outer pockets have material that helps block RFIDs. It’s also very comfortable, and because it is made well with quality hardware, it can be used for a long time.

When you are done using the Pacsafe’s Venturesafe GII for the day, you can comfortably leave this pack in your car, knowing that a thief cannot break the bag open to steal your items.

At the Camping Feed, our biggest complaint about this pack was the excessive strap lengths. Unfortunately, for some of us, it was impossible to get the straps short enough to where the pack would fit snug to our bodies. Although we could easily manipulate the chest and hip straps to a size that fit, the straps were a different story. So, if you are a taller person, this could be an excellent option for you.

The straps are wide, allowing weight to distribute nicely across your shoulders. Because of this, the pack is comfortable to wear for extended periods (if you can figure out how to make the straps work for you).

14. Thule Landmark

• Weight:  3.17 – 4.56 lbs
• Load Capacity: 40-70 L
• Comfort: 3.8/5 Stars
• Durability: 4.2/5 Stars

• Pros: Can purchase additional 20L day pack add on if needed, shoulder straps and hip belt can tuck away to prevent damage over time or with airline travel, attractive pack
• Cons: Not many compartments to keep items organized inside of the pack, some complaints that straps rub on back of neck after extended wear

Thule’s Landmark is an outstanding pack! One of our favorite features of this pack is that you can purchase an additional 20-liter day pack to add to your main bag.

The option to add on another pack is important because you can go from the trails to a plane and keep everything contained in your Landmark.The bag fits perfectly in overhead cabins, and the add-on daypack is great for under the seat in front of you. And, if you are looking for a pack to take on day trips, Thule’s Landmark can still provide what you need!

There is some opportunity to easily store your items with hidden compartments without the entire pack turning into a black hole. But, overall, at the Camping Feed, we wish the Landmark had more storage built-in. With the larger pack, it is easy to lose everything in one main compartment.

There is the option to store your laptop, so it is easy to have on the go with you!

With the support of the built-in waist strap, you should be able to wear this pack for a while. And the thicker straps help distribute the weight for more comfortable wear overall.

Because the main pack has a large stiffening sheet on the bottom and back panel, it is essential to consider how you stow away the item if you plan to take it on a flight.

For long-term wear on the trails, we enjoyed Thule’s Landmark. Some of us found that the top of the bag did rub on our necks after extended wear. But, overall, it was a comfortable, enjoyable pack to have.

15. Kelty Redwing 50

• Weight: 3 lbs 11 oz
• Load Capacity: 51 L
• Comfort: 3.8/5 Stars
• Durability: 4.8/5 Stars

• Pros: durable, built in organization for easily storing important items,
• Cons: not the most comfortable but it is outweighed by how durable and easy to use

Whether you are looking for a pack for a day trip or you are headed out overnight, Kelty’s Redwing 50 is the perfect companion. Because the pack includes suspension, you can easily adjust its placement without hassle. Finding the accurate adjustment is just three simple steps!

The Redwing 50 includes zippered side pockets with a larger front pocket with organization built-in. The pack itself is top-loading, and the mesh panel on the back helps to guarantee ventilation and comfort over time.

Additional loops have been placed throughout the bag to attach carabiners and other essential items easily. The Redwing 50 is 26 x 16 x 12 inches and can easily carry everything you need for a day out on the trails, from snacks and first aid items to a change of clothes and a raincoat.

Not only is the Redwing 50 great for trails, but it can easily double as your overhead item on your next flight. It is easy to take on and off and can fit above your seat on almost any major airliner.

At the Camping Feed, we love that this pack from Kelty is durable. They have used quality materials and hardware. And, the laptop sleeve is conveniently placed and sturdy. In addition, this pack is small enough to use daily but large enough to take traveling or on an overnight adventure!

Some have even claimed to use this pack for a 3-day hike. And, the Kelty Redwing 50 is especially significant if you are a commuter looking for something that fits comfortably while you are on a bike and carrying all of your groceries.

16. Nomatic Navigator

• Weight: 13.8 ounces or .86 LBS
• Load Capacity: 15 L with option to expand to 21 L
• Comfort: 4/5 Stars
• Durability: 4/5 Stars

• Pros: Option to expand pack if you need the extra space, organized storage space, water resistant outside, RFID protection
• Cons: May not be the best option on trails

The Nomatic Navigator is a sleek pack with a more rigid case on the outside. The pack holds 15 liters in its standard size. But, if you need additional storage, you can expand the pack by popping it out, allowing up to 21 liters of storage space once expanded.

With over five mesh pockets built into the center pocket and two zipper pockets that are RFID safe, you can keep everything organized and secure with ease.

The Nomatic Navigator is water-resistant due to the material on the outside of the bag. And, for added safety, the zippers are tamper-proof, making it extremely challenging to break into your pack.

At the Camping Feed, one of our favorite features of this pack is the reflective bars helping to keep you visible even as the sun is setting. In addition, the water bottle pocket on the outside makes it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day.

If you want to take your Navigator on a flight with you, it is easy to attach the bag to your carry-on luggage to navigate airports, trams, and transit.

One of our biggest qualms with Nomatic’s Navigator is that it seems like a pack made for day trips into cities and traveling on flights. There are not many added bells and whistles to easily carry your climbing tools, trekking poles, or a spare pair of shoes if needed.

But, if you want to store your keys, wallet, phone, charger, water bottle, snacks for the day, and space to gather items as you wander, then Nomatic’s Navigator is an excellent option. And, overall, the pack looks very modern and sophisticated.

17. BattlBox Spartan Bag

• Weight: 3.09 lbs
• Load Capacity: 32 L
• Comfort: 4/5 Stars
• Durability: 4/5 Stars

• Pros: Large Front Pockets, Sturdy Zipper, Bladder Pocket, Great Waist Control
• Cons: Frame Durability, Not Waterproof

The BattlBox Bag is a very customizable bag that is ideal for hikes of around two days. This bag blends comfort and storage to make for a great hiking daypack for people dedicated to hiking outdoors.

The exteriors give you space, with the shock cord on the bottom and mesh straps along the back, to easily strap your gear like blankets, jackets, and rain gear. 

We found the interior mesh zippered pockets on each side beneficial and valuable for organizing goods at the Camping Feed Store. There is plenty of space to store your items and separate them for ease of access with four internal pockets. There is also an interior hydration bladder pocket with a hole on the top for the hose.

The framing is arched with a back panel (mesh) for excellent ventilation and ideal comfort. The frame also provides excellent support for your back, distributing the weight evenly across your shoulders.  The waist strap is well placed and can also help when on longer hikes or heavier items in your pack.  There is also an excellent lower back padding area with the waist strap for great support and comfort. 

Overall, we felt this ideal hiking day pack for someone looking for versatility and excellent storage capabilities.  If you are a rock climber or hiker that requires space to hang things off your bag, you will love this daypack.

18. Mammut Lithium Zip

• Weight: 1.65 lbs
• Load Capacity: 24 L
• Comfort: 4.5/5 Stars
• Durability: 4/5 Stars

• Pros: Comfortable, Great for Hiking and Glaciers, Durable, Water Resistant
• Cons: Smaller bag for longer hikes

This day pack is an easy-to-use, modern-style hiking backpack.  We felt one great part of this pack at the Camping Feed is the full-contact back with a rain cover.  It makes the pack more water-resistant and ideal for hiking through brush, against rocks, and through rough terrains like glaciers.

The very durable zip closure also has a stretchable outer pocket. The large outer pocket is a stretch-fitted pocket that can stow even larger items like helmets or lanterns. The pack also includes multiple zip pockets on the interior, including a key pocket. So you can easily store your items for more extended outdoor hiking, or if using it as a travel bag, can store your airplane entertainment, personal items, and knick-knacks easily.

The pack is in the super-lightweight class and has well-ventilated mesh shoulder paddings for comfort.  Also, the pack is equipped with a forward-pulling hip belt with customizable adjustments for comfort and weight distribution.  There is back padding along the bag’s interior lining for comfort; this is also made of breathable mesh.

This pack is lauded as a great and durable pack for people looking for professional hiking on the trails or roads, especially if you don’t want to lug something the size of a standard “backpacking” pack. 

19. Columbia Drifter

• Weight: 2.38 lbs
• Comfort: 3.5/5 Stars
• Durability: 4/5 Stars

• Pros: Soft, Durable Materials, Looks Pretty, Laptop Pocket
• Cons: Not so comfortable, not great for heavier items

Columbia is one of the most reputable and recognizable brands in outdoor gear and hiking packs. Whether hiking, walking around school, or off to the skatepark, this daypack is an ideal pack to address your needs. We felt that one of the best features is the back panel with a trademarked ventilation technology. The directional foam padding encourages cooler air in and hotter air out.

The interior of the bag contains a zippered computer compartment for laptops up to 15 inches.  This laptop pocket is reinforced with EVA foam to act as a shock absorber and protect your valuable laptop, making this pack ideal for airplane trips and day trips to and from the office. Also, this pack has reflective strips across the back for your nighttime travels.

Are you carrying a heavier load? That is perfect because this pack also has a hip belt to distribute weight off your shoulders, and if you don’t want to use the strap, it can be easily removed.  However, it is not the best pack for very heavy items.

The Omni-Shield repellency built into the materials helps this bag remain water-resistant and helps avoid too much wear and tear over the time of use. Overall, this is an ideal pack for light items and a laptop.  We might call this a good commuter pack, but if you carry a lot of heavy books or items, you might consider a different pack.

20. ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit

• Weight: 4.1 lbs
• Load Capacity: 27 L
• Comfort: 4.7/5 Stars
• Durability: 4/5 Stars

• Pros: Great Pockets, Waist Strap Pocket, Great for Hunters
• Cons: Larger Bag, Smaller Load Capacity

The ALPS outdoor is a daypack explicitly designed for hunting and outdoors. The front shelf pocket keeps all the gear you need to be accessible right at your fingertips. There is even a drop-down rifle or bow holder pocket with space to hold your quivers. 

There is a hydration pocket and small hole for easy access to the drinking tube for longer days, especially in the summer. You can hang the pack from a tree with the attached D-ring clip when you need a break. Also, there is a built-in blaze orange rain cover to keep your items safe and your gear dry during any inclement weather situation.

The frame is made of an aluminum center rod to help distribute the weight and provide stability to the pack.  The padded waist belt, equipped with two pockets and clip-style holsters, is excellent for adding additional support and storing space. 

At the Camping Feed, we felt that this pack was best for people dedicated to the outdoors and hunting, particularly those looking for a smaller pack.  If you are looking for something to hold more oversized items or more tools, you might consider a larger pack. However, this bag has great features and outstanding pockets for accessibility to items when you are out hunting and don’t want to fumble through your bag. Not to mention, it is great to be able to attach your rifle or bow to your bag to free up your hands while you’re maneuvering through the woods or hunting grounds.

Hiking Daypacks Buying Guide

Hiking Daypacks Types

• The right load capacity
• Quality of Materials
• Ventilation
• Supported Weight
• Pockets and Extra Features
• Hip Belt
• Waterproofing
• Comfort

Hiking Daypacks Types

There are two types of daypacks that dominate the market: 

Frame: Many daypacks have an internal frame. The frames help to support and redistribute weight in the pack. They come in both plastic and metal compositions. Plastic offsets a lightweight structure with less durability. Other daypacks have rods made from aluminum. Typically, the larger the width of the frames, the more weight the pack can handle.

Frameless: These packs are often more compact and lightweight. They are great at adapting to the shape of your back and ideals for shorter hikes, lighter loads, and easy day trips. However, do not overload these bags. They are not capable of holding as much weight as a daypack with a frame. If the material isn’t durable, these packs will rip when overloaded.

Overall, daypacks with frames are better for larger weights as the frame will transfer the weight across your shoulders, especially with a good hip belt. On the other hand, a day pack is not ideal for heavier weight and can break if overloaded. However, the frameless daypacks are an excellent option for a light hike or even an airplane trip.

The right load capacity

Before you purchase a day pack or even start researching, you must consider the right load capacity for your hiking daypack. What is the right load? This can be a tough question. It depends on what you are carrying, the distance, and your needs. Hiking daypacks are designed to be smaller than your standard backpacking pack.  They range from 18 and 40 liters.

To give you a sense of what might be helpful for you. For example, you would want something that ranged from 15-25 liters for a smaller pack.  This would be ideal for shorter hikes, airplane trips, or even a pack for walks around town. 

If you are looking to carry more things or heavier items, you would ideally look at a 25-35 liter pack.  This would be large enough to carry a big bottle of water, DSLR camera, rolled jacket, and a few personal items.

So, if you are looking for the perfect size, we would have to recommend right in the middle of these two pack sizes at 20 liters.

Quality of Materials

The material type and construction are all related to the durability of a hiking daypack.  While we have reviewed very durable packs in this guide, our testing shows that some materials are more ideal than others. The most ideal over time are typically the more pliant, thicker materials that are more likely to absorb pressure and resist damage. As a result, these packs will always last longer.  For instance, bags that are made of waterproof Nylon materials are very durable.

You also want to pay attention to the material in relation to zipper functionality. Often 100% polyester packs are more likely to fray and get stuck in zippers. A zipper can destroy your bag and be the weakest link leading to elements penetration and tearing.

Ventilation

Ventilation provides comfort and ease for your hiking daypack, especially on a hot day.

Most hiking daypacks with a frame have foam or mesh in the back panel (the area that makes contact with your back). Often, it looks like a small rigid sheet over the frames. This provides some airflow and eliminates heavier materials.

Ultralight packs, typically without a frame or a flexible frame, have a small fabric sheet with little to no structure or padding. These packs have a lot of material that can snag or rip and don’t offer much structure to support larger weights. However, these packs are ideal for situations where you need light bags that can compress to smaller sizes. They are ideal for stowed bags or day hiking.

The final style is the fully ventilated hiking daypack. Unlike the frame and frameless styles with nylon or foam setting the back panel, fully ventilated packs are created with mesh to help you avoid heavy sweat. The most well-known manufacturer of these packs is Osprey or Stratos. In these mesh designs, they encourage airflow to keep your back cool and pull the weight of the pack away from your body. The downside? Typically you are exchanging comfort for price and a larger size daypack.

Supported Weight

The supported weight of hiking daypacks has an extensive range, typically from 9 ounces to almost 3 pounds. Like the Osprey Stratos 24, the larger supported consequences come with a lot of pockets and both a hip belt and suspension belt. On the other hand, like the REI Flash, it has less structure and more flexible material and may only support less than a pound.

Keep storage and your comfort in mind when you are deciding the support weight for your pack. The more features your pack has, like back padding and straps for shoulders with weight distributions, the more weight it will support. If you are planning on carrying larger weights for longer times, you must find a comfortable option.  If you are carrying a lot, this will be your most comfortable option.

Ensure that you understand your needs and pay close attention to the support weight when considering a daypack. Sometimes you may need to upgrade to a true backpacking pack.

Pockets and Extra Features

Pockets and features can make or break a bag for many people.  For instance, if you plan to carry smaller items, you may want more pockets to keep everything organized. On the other hand, if you are looking for a pack to carry more private items or items you want to stay secure, you might look for a pack with more interior pockets. Also, consider hip belt pockets for things you need to keep close and at a hand’s length, like hand sanitizer, a pocket knife, etc. In addition, more oversized outside pockets are ideal for smaller items like multi-tool, headlamps, water bottles. Finally, the larger main compartments or pockets are great for gear and more oversized items like cameras.

A feature that is one of our favorites on hiking daypacks is a shove-it pocket. This is typically a mesh pocket across the front of the pack, great for items like a snack or foldable rain jacket. Also, when you have wet clothes or things after a swim, you can conveniently store them in the mesh pocket.

Hip Belt

The hip belt is an essential feature on your hiking daypack as it will help distribute the weight and make your pack more comfortable. Often, pay attention to the size and amount of padding on the hip belt and the shoulder straps. If there is more padding, it will be more comfortable. The materials of a hip belt can range from a thin webbing to a cushioned strap with a supportive design. Almost all of the hiking daypacks have a hip belt, but some do not.

If you are looking for a lightweight pack for a short hike and your load weight is less than ten pounders, a thinner webbing hip belt will work for your need.  However, if comfort is your number one deciding factor of hiking daypack or you plan to carry a lot of weight, we recommend a pack with a good hip belt.

Waterproofing

It is ideal for getting a waterproof hiking daypack, or at least one that has a reasonable amount of light waterproofing. It is hard for most packs to achieve 100% waterproofing unless you get a dry bag or something with a waterproof seal. Keep in mind; if you don’t get a waterproof hiking daypack, you can always get waterproof storage containers to hold your items inside the daypack.

Many hiking daypacks today are water resistant – this will keep your

items dry in the case of splashes, light rain, and other lighter water situations.  However, if a heavy downpour or your bag is submerged, the water-resistant fabrics won’t keep your items dry.  For most water situations, this will work; however, if you are under a heavy downpour or the bag is submerged, water-resistant materials are not going to keep your stuff dry.

If your pack is waterproof or a dry bag, you should be good, but if it is water-resistant, you should plan on bringing a rain cover if you are going on longer hikes.

Comfort

You are looking at three factors when talking about comfort: load-carrying capability, adjustability, and ventilation.  Also, you may consider durability and water resistance.  For instance, a pack with adjustable straps, harness, and hip belts with the ability to carry a large load and mesh ventilation will be a great pack.  You can adjust it until it is comfortable for your particular body type and are on your way.  Also, a bag that has a durable nylon material will be great because you don’t have to worry about it getting ripped in the middle of your hike. 

Some features that support comfort and convenience include a hydration sleeve or Camelbak, sternum strap, attachment loops for trekking poles, key clips, and hip belt pockets.  These features make it so that you can stay comfortable during your day hikes and not have to bother with stops where you have to unload the entire pack. 

With all these tools on your back, you are ready for the outdoors.