The best daypack for hiking is an essential gear for various outdoor enthusiasts. It does many things, especially in giving you convenience while you're carrying your day-to-day stuff. Aside from your hikes, you can also take these packs while jogging, cycling, or even in your daily grind.
There are a plethora of daypacks that the market can offer today. Each of them has a plethora of functions, features, and nuances. Of course, the number of choices that you have can make the selection process a lot difficult. If you want to refine your search, then the following rundown of some of the top-rated daypacks can give you an idea of where to start.
| Dimensions | Frame Type | Number of Exterior Pockets | |
| Osprey Talon 22 Pack – Men’s | 21 inches x 11 inches x 9 inches | Internal | 6 |
| REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack - Men's | 19.5 inches x 13.25 inches x 7.5 inches | Internal | 5 |
| Gregory Nano 22 H2O Hydration Pack | 20 inches x 10 inches x 7 inches | Frameless | 3 |
| Deuter Speed Lite 22 SL Pack - Women's | 20 inches x 11 inches x 6.7 inches | Internal | 4 |
| REI Co-op Flash 22 Print Pack | 18 inches x 10 inches x 8 inches | Frameless | 3 |
| TETON Sports Oasis 1100 Hydration Pack | 18.5 inches x 10 inches x 7 inches | Frameless | 6 |
| Osprey Hikelite 18 Hiking Backpack | 18.11 inches x 9.45 inches x 10.83 inches | Internal | 3 |
The Osprey Talon 22 Pack is a reputable, highly-renowned daypack. It provides a platform that lets you bring enough food, hydration, and clothing on each of your trips. It works well for hiking, peak-bagging, and any other applicable outdoor pursuits. The bag features a dual-zippered panel on its primary compartment, enabling secure and hassle-free access. Meanwhile, its compression straps on its lower side keep your baggage safe and in place.
This daypack also features a plethora of pockets where you can store your small accessories and other essential amenities. Specifically, it has a mesh front panel pocket, side stretch mesh pockets, and a zippered stash pocket located on its top. Furthermore, the Talon 22 includes dual-zippered hip belt pockets where you can stash small but necessary hiking accessories. It is also notable that it comes with a hydration sleeve where you can put your reservoir. Such a design ensures that you'll remain hydrated throughout your trip.
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:
One of the things that I like about the REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack is that it is perfectly sized for day hikes. It is not too big and not too small either. It provides an excellent fit for a number of users. Moreover, I also have to indicate that both the fabrics used on its body and linings are made from recycled materials. Hence, if you want an extra eco-friendly choice, you should consider this option.
The Trail 25 can adapt to the elements. It has a raincover that stows directly on its zip pocket. Use it so that you can shield the bag and its contents against rain, snow, and dust. With its U-shaped panel and two zipper sliders, you will be able to access the pack's contents as quickly as possible. Trail 25 also includes padded straps that have mesh cover so that your shoulders remain comfortable throughout your hike. There's an internal HDPE frame sheet integrated into the pack's structure so that your back is protected against the protrusion of your gears and equipment.
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:
You can entrust your quick adventures on the road and mountains with the Gregory Nano 22 H2O Hydration Pack. This daypack can haul up to 3 liters of water on its 3D Hydro reservoir. The latter dries quickly, making the daypack a lot convenient to carry while you are on the move. Your day hike essentials are guaranteed to be accessible on this bag, thanks to its top drawcord opening that is easy to open and close. You can take your items as quickly as possible without messing with the interiors.
The Gregory Nano 22 H2O Hydration Pack also features a myriad of external and internal pockets. Specifically, it has a zippered pocket on its top, stash side pocket, and side mesh pocket for your water container. With its reflective attachment loops, you will be able to secure your other hiking accessories without the need to stow them inside the backpack. A tubular webbing haul has been integrated into this item so that you can have another means of carrying the bag easily.
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:
Durability is one of the things that you would want from a daypack, especially if it is tailored for women. And for that, the Deuter Speed Lite 22 SL Pack presents itself as an ideal option. This is suitable to be used on your regular hiking routes as well as other unexplored terrains. The bag has been tailored specifically for women, as proven by its short back length and narrow fit. Most women find comfort while wearing this pack, and that's a testament that it has an ergonomic build.
Deuter Speed Lite 22 SL Pack features the inclusion of the Lite Air back system on its architecture. With this component, the bag provides optimally comfortable and stable load distribution. The entire weight is diffused equally throughout the bag so that users won't experience strains while carrying it. Meanwhile, the highly flexible Delrin U-frame and it's fully padded and ventilated back panel generate sufficient posterior support. It got S-shaped shoulder straps, too, for more efficient handling.
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:
If you are looking for the perfect daypack for ultralight hiking, I suggest that you check out the REI Co-op Flash 22 Print Pack. This unit only weighs 13 ounces, which is not downright flyweight but never shabby. Similar to all other daypacks, this bag is compatible with hydration systems and features a detachable sternum and hip belt strap for maximum comfort. Its back is well-padded so that you'll experience adequate comfort while hauling it on your trip.
Interestingly, this daypack from REI is tailored from bluesign-approved materials, which means that it has environmentally friendly construction. But then again, let me emphasize that this bag still exudes durability on all of its parts. Its shoulder straps are highly breathable, as they are equipped with stretch-mesh layers. Furthermore, the straps have fold-over padding that reduces the roughness that you feel when they get in contact with your shoulders and neck. You can also remove the sternum and waist belt strap so that you can reduce more weight.
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:
The TETON Sports Oasis 1100 Hydration Pack is a durable and highly functional daypack that can satisfy your day-hiking needs. Specifically, this unit lets you provide sufficient hydration even if your adventure takes overnight. It also comes with a free 2-liter hydration bladder. The latter isn't prone to kinking; of course, it has a large opening, which enables you to clean and refill easily. Meanwhile, its torso length is adjustable so that it can provide a universal fit for adult and youth users.
This daypack has mesh covers and notched foam stabilizers so that you can wear it for an extended period without straining your shoulders and neck. When it comes to content and capacity, this one is never lacking. Its primary storage is rugged enough to contain and protect your hiking equipment. There is also a bungee cord on this bag where you can strap your climbing and cycling gear. Furthermore, the Oasis 1100 has a sewn-in rain cover so that you can bring this even if the elements are unfavorable.
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:
To end this rundown is another Osprey daypack as the brand really deserves the spot. Specifically, its Hikelite 18 of Osprey brims with quality and functionality, making it versatile for a myriad of outdoor applications. Proof of that is its ventilated AirSpeed Mesh back panel that maintains the coolness of your back throughout your trip. It is equipped with side vents, too, so that you can feel the optimal airflow.
It is also notable that it has an integrated rain cover, which is similar to some of the daypacks that I've featured here. You can guarantee that this bag can keep your equipment dry and undamaged even under inclement weather. Moreover, its internal hydration sleeve can handle up to 3 liters of water reservoir. It also got multiple pockets, such as its side mesh pockets and organization pockets, where you can stash your hiking accessories and small essentials. The LightWire frame and Airspeed Suspension of this bag also ensure that you can carry it comfortably during extended trips.
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:
In choosing a daypack, several considerations have to be prioritized. Essentially, you will need your daypack to fit your requirements and intended application.
The guideline below can help you narrow your search and arrive at the perfect daypack for your needs.
Essentially, you may choose a daypack that can cater for your desired trip or adventure. In this case, we are talking about hiking. Hence, you may need a daypack that features compatibility with hydration reservoirs. Moreover, it should come with side pockets for your water bottle.
For a hiking daypack, you may want to figure out your torso size so that you can find the right size for you. Alternatively, you may want to get those that have adjustable torso lengths so that they can fit your body.
But what if you want to take the daypack for climbing? Well, you might want to settle on an option that features a narrow trim. In this way, the bag won't disrupt your movement. Padding on the back is essential for both climbers and hikers. You can also select a daypack with a frame sheet for added support and comfort when carrying heavy loads.
A climbing daypack also includes specialized amenities such as daisy chains and loops.
The capacity of daypacks varies from one model to another. This factor alone makes the choosing process somewhat baffling.
To go over any dilemma, you should think first of the things that you usually bring in your day hikes. Once you have audited all your essentials, you can already derive the ideal daypack capacity for you. As long as the daypack fits all your equipment and accessories, it is a worthy deal for you!
The fit is another factor that you need to take into account. An adequately fitted daypack matches the length of your torso and not your height. Furthermore, it provides a comfortable feel on the hips.
Keep in mind that these daypacks have different sizes. I am pretty sure that there's a model that can match the length of your torso. Most of the time, the sizing is categorized by sex. There are specific fits for men and women, respectively.
If possible, you should try fitting the daypack and see if it conforms to your torso and waist size. In this way, you'll never get wrong when it comes to sizing.
The best daypacks for hiking can ensure that you'll have a comfortable and satisfactory outdoor activity. They are essential amenities that help you carry your stuff and gear. If you can get an ergonomic daypack, you can cover all your trips with the utmost convenience and functionality.
Do you have other inquiries? Feel free to drop them in the comment section below.
The best daypack for hiking is an essential gear for various outdoor enthusiasts. It does many things, especially in giving you convenience while you're carrying your day-to-day stuff. Aside from your hikes, you can also take these packs while jogging, cycling, or even in your daily grind.There are a plethora of daypacks that the market can offer today. Each of them has a plethora of functions, features, and nuances. Of course, the number of choices that you have can make the selection process a lot difficult. If you want to refine your search, then the following rundown of some of the top-rated daypacks can give you an idea of where to start.
