To pick the best ultralight hiking daypack, remember these points: go for a light and durable pack, choose a size between 15-25L, make sure it’s comfy with adjustable straps, check its pockets and how well things can be organized, and see if it has good airflow.
Our TOP 5 guide will help you choose the right one for an awesome hiking trip.
Key Specs
Weight: 2.53 ounces (72 grams)
Capacity: 20L
Material: siliconized cordura fabric
Price: $
PROS
✅ Ultralight
✅ Comfortable
CONS
❌ Lacking chest straps
The Ultra-Sil Day Pack from Sea to Summit offers a combination of noteworthy advantages and considerations. This minimalist backpack boasts remarkable strength and can be compressed down to a size comparable to a tennis ball.
Crafted from 30D siliconized CORDURA® fabric and featuring reinforced bar-tacks at stress points, it demonstrates the ability to endure loads exceeding its own weight.
However, we have noticed a practical limitation. It may not provide optimal security for more vigorous movement, and the addition of a chest strap could enhance its functionality. Despite this consideration, it remains a commendable ultralight daypack.
Key Specs
Weight: 9.6 ounces (273 grams)
Capacity: 19L
Material: 70D robic nylon ripstop
Price: $$
PROS
✅ High quality
✅ Great pockets
CONS
❌ Chest starp is non adjustable
The Gossamer Gear ultralight hiking daypack boasts rugged durability and ample storage. The multiple pockets, mesh bottle holders, and ergonomic features add to its practicality.
However, our primary concern with the bag is the fixed chest strap, which can cause fit issues for individuals with narrower shoulders.
Despite this drawback, the bag’s overall quality and functionality stand out.
Key Specs
Weight: 3.28 ounces (93 grams)
Capacity: 15L
Material: 30D ballistic nylon ripstop
Price: $$
PROS
✅ Comfortable
✅ Good in hot conditions
CONS
❌ No padding on shoulder straps
Montbell’s ultralight hiking daypack offers a no-frills, lightweight experience perfect for thru-hiking and ultralite backpacking.
Its 30-denier Ballistic nylon rip-stop main body strikes a great balance between strength and weight.
While the lack of padded shoulder straps might not be ideal for heavy loads, this pack’s design focuses on spreading the load efficiently with its wide, breathable mesh straps.
Key Specs
Weight: 15.87 ounces (450 grams)
Capacity: 25L
Material: 210D robic HD ripstop nylon carbonate
Price: $$
PROS
✅ Waterproof
✅ Nice storage features
CONS
❌ Can rub the neck
Exped’s Typhoon 25 pack is a standout waterproof, lightweight, and versatile backpack perfect for ultralight hiking.
The roll-top closure keeps rain out and offers easy access to the main compartment. Additional storage is provided by stretch side pockets and daisy chains.
The pack is crafted from recycled, PFC-free fabric, making it both waterproof and durable. The lightly padded mesh back and removable hip strap add comfort during wear.
While the pack has many strengths, we did notice that the shoulder straps can sometimes cause discomfort by riding up and rubbing against the neck.
Nonetheless, it remains a solid option for your needs.
Key Specs
Weight: 21.05 ounces (597 grams)
Capacity: 17L
Material: DCH150
Price: $$$
PROS
✅ Durable
✅ Comfortable
CONS
❌ Relatively expensive
The Hyperlite Daybreak 17 stands out as an excellent choice for day hiking. It offers ample space for gear, clothing, and water bottles.
Its sturdy construction guarantees durability in outdoor conditions. Noteworthy features and its rarity as a dyneema-equipped daypack set it apart.
While the price might be slightly steep, the benefits far outweigh this drawback.
If you’re in need of a dependable and feature-rich daypack for ultralight hiking, the Daybreak 17 could be the perfect fit.
When selecting a hiking daypack, it’s important to think about what you’ll need for your day hike and how comfortable and supportive the pack is for hours of wear.
Look for one with a capacity of 15 to 30 liters, accessible compartments for your stuff, like your phone and water bottles.
When it comes to daypacks, you’ll find two primary types to choose from. Frameless packs are lightweight and suitable for lighter loads, whereas internal frame packs offer added support, which is more fitting for heavier gear, typically not needed on a day hike. At our preference, we opt for frameless daypacks for their practicality during day hikes.
Keep an eye out for daypacks with suspended mesh back panels to keep you cool during your hikes.
Additionally, make sure the pack is available in different sizes to match your torso length and hip size for a comfortable fit. If you’re unsure about sizing your pack, you can check out our helpful post for more information.
