While you may think your everyday backpack will suffice, you’ll still need a durable hiking backpack to carry your stuff when you set out for a day hike with the kids or a trip into the canyons with family or friends. Something light, comfortable, and with enough capacity to suit your needs. You can also opt for a hydration pack if that is what you prefer. But it can be hard to find the best backpack for day hikes because of the myriad of options available.
The best backpack for day hikes is practical, well-fit, and sturdy. They have to be because when you’re away from home, bringing all your essential things like outdoor gear, food, drinks, and survival gear is important. There are also many backpacks that are ideal for multiple sports like mountain biking, climbing, skiing, or snowboarding.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 8 hrs of research
Osprey Packs Talon 22 Men’s Hiking Backpack – Best for Men
Why is it better?
- Ventilation is great, the back webbing helps negate a lot of moisture
- The bag is very comfortable and you can even adjust the size on the back and hips which are a big plus on getting that personal fit
- It also has a lot of little details like a place to easily store trekking poles
- Very easy to climb and scramble over rocks with this pack
Kelty Redwing 32 Backpack – Best for Women
Why is it better?
- The hip straps are on the small size, but they distribute the weight really well
- The shoulder straps are extremely comfortable
- This size is a good fit for shorter people without compromising overly on how much you can fit into the backpack
- The waist straps can be tucked into the pack and will go unnoticed while wearing
Best Backpacks for Day Hikes – Overview
With hundreds of daypacks out there, it can be hard to figure out which ones are suitable for hiking, overnight backpacking, or other activities. That’s why we made this curated list of daypacks for hikers, backpackers and other outdoor enthusiasts that we recommend. There’s a backpack on this page, no matter what your ambitions or interests are, that will suit your needs. And if a packable daypack is your style, we also have a guide for that.
Backpacks for Day Hikes Reviews
1. Osprey Packs Talon 22 Men’s Hiking Backpack – Best for Men
Simpler is often better, and simply put this is one of the most versatile packs ever created. If you prefer going light and moving fast in the woods, mountains and around town, the Osprey Packs Talon 22 Men’s Hiking Backpack is the pack for you. 22L of capacity is perfect for day hikes, urban commutes or a trip to the market. Ventilated and comfortable, the BioStretch harness and continuous wrap hipbelt combine to create an incredibly stable carry system that hugs your body so you can stay balanced on the trail, ridge or peak.
The AirScape backpanel uses less material and glue while making it more breathable to keep you cool on hot days. When uphills turn technical, the Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole carry system keeps your hands free for upward movement. LidLock helmet carry achieves the same when you stop for a mid-commute coffee. Zippered hipbelts, side stretch mesh pockets, a harness pocket, and top-lid storage provide all the organization you need. Be sure to also check out our list of Osprey backpacks for more great items like this.
Key Features:
- Side stretch mesh pockets
- Stretch mesh harness slash pocket
- Top panel zippered slash pocket
- Stow-On-The-Go trekking pole attachment
- Two zippered hipbelt pockets
- LidLock helmet attachment
- External hydration sleeve
- Lower InsideOut compression/carry straps
Specifications:
- Brand: Osprey
- Capacity: 22L
- Dimensions: 22″ H x 16″ W x 4″ D
- Weight: 1.34 lbs
- Ventilation is great, the back webbing helps negate a lot of moisture
- The bag is very comfortable and you can even adjust the size on the back and hips which are a big plus on getting that personal fit
- It also has a lot of little details like a place to easily store trekking poles
- Very easy to climb and scramble over rocks with this pack
- The side mesh pockets are relatively thin and may be a tight fit for a 1L Nalgene
2. Deuter Speed Lite 20 Athletic Daypack
Deuter’s lightweight packs are designed for anyone that wants to travel light and fast without forgoing carrying comfort and durability. These packs shine in endurance sports and all-day alpine adventures with a high functioning set of features and construction to keep pace with the most demanding mountain athlete. The smallest and lightest of Deuter’s hiking packs, the Deuter Speed Lite 20 Athletic Daypack, feature an extremely light and minimalist padded back with ventilated 3D Airmesh to provide a cool and stable fit in the most challenging terrain.
From trail running to day hikes to ski races, the Speedlite has been around the mountain a time or two, super lightweight, compact, and secure, you’ll forget that you’re carrying layers, snacks, and hydration until you need them.
Key Features:
- Athletic V-cut shape for extensive freedom of movement
- Sunglasses loop on the shoulder strap
- Accessory loops for gear or helmet holder attachment
- Easy glove-friendly loops on zippers
- Stretch side water bottle pockets
- Height and width adjustable chest strap
Specifications:
- Brand: Deuter
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 18.1″ H x 10.2″ W x 7.1″ D
- Weight: 1.08 lbs
- The back is breathable and the chest strap helps for those heavier loads
- Plenty of places where you can latch stuff to this backpack
- Trekking poles sit nicely in the side pocket secured with the side compression strap
- Very light weight and well constructed
- The back straps are way too close at the neck
3. Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack
When you need to compress volume without significantly adding weight, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack is an excellent solution. Made from a 30D diamond rip-stop siliconized CORDURA fabric they can be compressed to one-third of the original volume. Ideal for use inside your pack or travel bag when you need to compress clothing or bulky soft items to allow space for other essentials or fun holiday items.
Reinforced shoulder straps to reduce bunching up when carrying heavy loads and ergonomically shaped for a better fit. Webbing daisy-chain attachment point can hold a bike light. Two-way zipper closure for convenience.
Key Features:
- Packs down small so it easily fits in pockets, purses or luggage
- Stuff sack has an attached carabiner
- Simple, streamlined design so it’s light and low profile
- Siliconized CORDURA fabric for strength and durability
- Bartack reinforced stitching on all stress points
Specifications:
- Brand: Sea to Summit
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 4.8″ H x 2.3″ W x 2″ D
- Weight: 0.15 lbs
- Packs very small
- Plenty of room for one person, and allows for more
- High quality construction
- Very lightweight
- No port for reservoir drinking tube
4. Osprey Packs Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack
The supremely ventilated, featured and durable Stratos Series receives a makeover that is more than skin deep. Now featuring adjustable torso lengths for improved fit and comfort with updated aesthetics, the Osprey Packs Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack is the go-to choice for those who prefer panel-loading organization on day hikes in wet or hot environments where staying dry and keeping your cool matter most.
When the weather turns, fear not – Stratos keeps your gear and pack protected with an integrated rain cover. Smartly organized pocketing keeps all your equipment where you need it when you need it. Incredibly comfortable and ventilated tensioned mesh backpanel with added adjustability for variations in torso length to provide fine-tuned customization fit for every hiker and backpacker.
Key Features:
- Dual side compression straps
- Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment
- Dual side stretch mesh pockets
- Ice tool loop with bungee tie-off
- Integrated rain cover
- Zippered hipbelt pockets
Specifications:
- Brand: Osprey
- Capacity: 24L
- Dimensions: 22″ H x 11.8″ W x 11.8″ D
- Weight: 2.75 lbs
- The suspension system that keeps them off your back with a mesh panel and an airspace that is at least an inch
- There are two small pockets that are good for keeping little items easily accessible
- You can adjust how high it sits so the frame fits the contour of your back
- The hip pockets are great for a pocket knife or something
- It has a pretty large footprint for not a lot of storage space
5. CamelBak Fourteener 24 Hydration Pack
To conquer the big peaks, you need to be prepared for anything. This is why the CamelBak Fourteener 24 Hydration Pack was made. It has innovative air tunnels maximize ventilation while keeping the load close to your body for increased stability. Seamlessly integrated cargo compression offers a variety of options for additional essentials storage.
The Crux 3L reservoir is designed to deliver 20% more water per sip. The adjustable sternum strap gives a comfortable fit for a wide variety of chest sizes. With the trekking pole carry, easily attach and remove poles when needed.
Key Features:
- 3-liter crux reservoir
- Air support back panel
- Dual wing belt
- Stretch overflow pocket
- Trekking pole carry
Specifications:
- Brand: CamelBak
- Capacity: 24L
- Dimensions: 22″ H x 13.8″ W x 4.6″ D
- Weight: 2.98 lbs
- Soft and comfortable back support
- Fleece lined pockets as to not scratch devices
- Exceptional quality bladder
- Great straps and clips, easy-to-use trekking pole holders
- A bit expensive
6. Osprey Packs Tempest 20 Women’s Hiking Backpack
The Osprey Packs Tempest 20 Women’s Hiking Backpack is one of the most versatile hiking packs available. 20L of capacity is perfect for day hikes, urban commutes or a trip to the market. The BioStretch harness and continuous wrap hipbelt combine to create an incredibly stable carry system. The updated AirScape backpanel also uses less material and glue while making it more breathable. Zippered hipbelts, side stretch mesh pockets, a harness pocket, and top-lid storage provide all the organization you need.
Osprey’s LidLock attachment easily and securely carries bicycle helmets. External hydration sleeve in the backpanel simplifies refilling and protects pack content from spills. A mesh-covered, die-cut slotted foam hipbelt and harness is used to create a perfectly formed fit. Adding to the versatility of the Tempest 20 is the ability to travel all sorts of terrain and carry the proper tools to do so with the ice tool loops.
Key Features:
- Dual-zippered panel access to the main compartment
- External hydration sleeve that can fit up to a 3L reservoir (sold separately)
- Two zippered hipbelt pockets, side stretch mesh pocket, and a large stretch mesh front pocket
- Stow-On-The-Go trekking pole attachment
- LidLock helmet attachment
Specifications:
- Brand: Osprey
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 14″ W x 4″ D
- Weight: 1.63 lbs
- There are a multitude of pockets
- The shoulder straps are adjustable in a way that lets you drop this pack so it carries low on your back
- The backpanel is also well designed for great airflow, which helps keep you cool
- The water bottle holders on sides are big enough to store standard slim line water bottles
- Hipbelt pockets are small
7. Gregory Mountain Products Men’s Salvo 28 Day Hiking Backpack
The Gregory Mountain Products Men’s Salvo 28 Day Hiking Backpack boasts dual interior compartments and stretch exterior storage for a total of 28 liters of all-day cargo capacity. VaporSpan ventilated suspension provides all-terrain, any-weather comfort and support without robbing interior space or weighing you down. Hipbelt pockets keep snacks and small accessories in reach on the trail, saving room in the spacious main compartment for extra gear.
Incredibly cool and comfortable back panel performance in all weather conditions and ultra-cush shoulder harness with top tier EVA foam and ventilated design for long-lasting comfort. It also features a hydration sleeve with SpeedClip integration system for easy use with Gregory’s 3D Hydro Reservoir.
Key Features:
- Zippered mesh accessory pocket and key clip located inside the main pocket
- Bottom compression straps with surface mounted quick-release buckles
- Side-pull 38mm hipbelt adjustment
- Internal hydration sleeve with hose management
Specifications:
- Brand: Gregory
- Capacity: 28L
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 12″ W x 10″ D
- Weight: 2.43 lbs
- You can barely feel a fully packed backpack as all the weight shifts from your shoulders to your waist
- The suspension is comfortable and breathable
- The main pocket is large and easily accessible, and the smaller pockets are great for organizing gear
- It compresses nicely when I don’t have a lot of gear to carry
- Designed for men only
8. Osprey Packs Daylite Daypack
The Osprey Packs Daylite Daypack is at home on a 14,000-foot summit or on a trip to the local farmer’s market. Designed to attach to a number of Osprey’s larger packs and travel bags for use as a separate pod pack on day trips away from base camp, it is the perfect companion on any trip. Access to the main compartment is easy with a large zippered panel.
Side mesh pockets hold water bottles and other sundries while a front pocket with a mesh organizer and key clip secure small items in a single secure spot. The multi-function interior sleeve can be used for either a reservoir, tablet or laptop (up to most 14” laptops); attaches to a variety of compatible Osprey Packs. The front panel shove-it pocket is great for stashing a light rain shell and other smaller items.
Key Features:
- Large panel-loading main compartment
- Attaches to a variety of compatible Osprey packs
- Side mesh pockets
- Front pocket with mesh organizer and key clip
- Spacermesh shoulder straps with integrated handle
- Multi-function interior sleeve for hydration or tablet
Specifications:
- Brand: Osprey
- Capacity: 13L
- Dimensions: 18″ H x 9″ W x 9″ D
- Weight: 1.05 lbs
- The bag has some odly shaped side nets which can be used to hold water bottles and stuff
- It also has chest and hip straps which thankfully are removable, if you have no use for them
- There’s plenty of space in the pack and, and it does have some pockets but it isn’t a ridiculous amount
- The zippers are smooth with large, durable pulls and they are covered by a flap of the exterior material of the pack when closed
- The top part of the straps where the straps join kinda cuts into the back of your neck when tightening the shoulder straps
9. Kelty Redwing 32 Backpack – Best for Women
A sized-down version of Kelty’s best-selling Redwing with all the features and organization needed for around-town travel or a day on the trail. With a full-access U-zipper, the Kelty Redwing 32 Backpack works both as a top-loader and a panel loader, adding convenience to any adventure. The multi-purpose padded sleeve will protect sensitive items and also doubles as a hydration sleeve.
Water bottle pockets and zippered side pockets keep everything you need organized and easy to get to. HDPE frame sheet makes up the frame while the dynamic airflow back panel and AirMesh shoulder straps and lumbar pad keep the ventilation going. Waist belt can be tucked away when not in use. This pack is small but mighty.
Key Features:
- Large side compression straps
- Front pocket with organization
- Front Stash pocket with closure hook
- HDPE frame sheet makes up the frame
Specifications:
- Brand: Kelty
- Capacity: 32L
- Dimensions: 22″ H x 14″ W x 11″ D
- Weight: 2 lbs
- The hip straps are on the small size, but they distribute the weight really well
- The shoulder straps are extremely comfortable
- This size is a good fit for shorter people without compromising overly on how much you can fit into the backpack
- The waist straps can be tucked into the pack and will go unnoticed while wearing
- The hip pads are nice, but the little straps/clip are too thin
10. Gregory Mountain Products Zulu 30 Liter Men’s Hiking Daypack
The Gregory Mountain Products Zulu 30 Liter Men’s Hiking Daypack features a body-hugging, customizable suspension that actively flexes with your body’s natural movement on the trail. The FreeFloat suspension is the ultimate combination of dynamic fit, lightweight features and streamlined silhouettes that deliver an incredibly balanced and agile carry. On-the-go water bottle access and Open-Air moisture-wicking ventilation provide convenience and comfort no matter where your next adventure takes you.
This pack features an adjustable attachment loop and hook-attach shock lock for trekking poles or ice axes, sunglass QuickStow system on shoulder harness for quick, secure and scratch-free access to your shades. Lastly, it has a front U-zip opening for easy access to the main compartment without removing the top pocket.
Key Features:
- Free float suspension: low profile open-air ventilation, moisture-wicking mesh, and custom torso length
- Rain cover: easy access rain cover keeps your gear dry even when that storm rolls out of nowhere
- 3D comfort cradle system: an ultra-comfortable, body-hugging fit
- Front stretch mesh pocket: for easy access while on the trail
Specifications:
- Brand: Gregory
- Capacity: 30L
- Dimensions: 24.8″ H x 13.8″ W x 9.1″ D
- Weight: 2.5 lbs
- Has enough pockets to hold the necessities and can hold a 3L water bladder in the main compartment
- The hip belt pockets are big enough for a medium cell phone with a case, which is a great convenience
- The hip belt suspension design actually helps control a lot of the pack movement and so it moves with you
- The space between the back mesh and the pack body allows good back ventilation
- The zippers could be smoother. The main zip tends to take more work that it should
Buying Guide
Capacity
Most day-packs vary in volume from 20L to 35L. The size you need depends on how long the hikes are and how much clothing and gear you need to bring to shield yourself from rain or snow. While a lower capacity backpack is appropriate for half-day hikes, we suggest sizing up for all-day hikes in the range of 30L to 35L
Ventilation
Especially in the summer, you’ll want a well-ventilated backpack, so you can prevent being sweaty, which can lead to painful rubbing and chafing. This is mostly accurate for your back panel and hip belt. Suspended screen panels and ventilation chimneys solve that problem efficiently. It is critical that the ventilation features of each individual pack are taken into account.
Comfort
At the end of the day, comfort is important. If you’re not at ease on the trail, then you might get frustrated. And if you’re angry then the beautiful world around you is without you. Make sure you read as many reviews as possible about the backpack you’d like to purchase. Buy a pack that is catered to your gender to ensure comfort. Some companies make male and female-specific backpacks, so we suggest buying a pack like that.
Water Resistance
It’s normal to load our daypacks with things like a phone, camera, or down jacket that aren’t going to do well in rain. As such we place a high emphasis on the safety of water resistance. The good news is that most daypacks are fairly water-resistant and can shed light to moderate moisture, but in a downpour, the fabrics and seams can tend to cede way. For some daypacks, they have an included rain cover which can save you the time from purchasing one.
Pockets
If you like to have a designated area for smaller items and easy access, search for a pack with a variety of pockets inside and outside. Hipbelt pockets for anything you want close to hand, an exterior pocket for small items like a headlamp or multi-tool along the top lid, and a wide, open main compartment for our gears. External pockets with a key snap are always useful for school or day-to-day use.
Conclusion
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best backpacks for day hikes as well as our guide on features to look for in a backpack for day hikes. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.