5 Best Daypacks For Men

Searching for the best daypacks for men can be cumbersome, especially with the number of options that you can choose from. Based on my experience, scouting from dozens of selections can be time-confusing and baffling. Hence, it somewhat helps that you know how to narrow down your options. 

Daypacks are essential outdoor amenities. They help you store your essentials and bring them wherever you go. Interestingly, some daypacks are tailored for a specific purpose. You can find compact packs with hydration reservoirs that you can use in running or cycling. Meanwhile, there are also those that have spacious interiors for more storage capacity. 

Regardless of your need, you have to ensure that the pack you choose is durable and functional. Furthermore, if you want to check the top-rated daypacks for men, the following rundown will give you a proper introduction.

5 Best Daypacks For Men

1. Osprey Stratos 36 Pack

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For tough day hikes and quick overnight expeditions, the Osprey Stratos 36 Pack is a reliable companion. Featuring side-panel and top-loading access points, the pack provides convenient means for storing/removing your equipment. It also includes multiple pockets where you can store your essentials, such as its two hipbelt pockets and side mesh pockets. There's also a zippered compartment installed in this pack where you can stash your sleeping bags. It also accommodates sleeping pads, thanks to its detachable straps. 

Other ergonomic perks are also rigged in the Osprey Stratos 36 Pack. For snow-based adventures, the trekking pole attachment and the ice tool loop of the bag are reliable utilities. During rainy days, its integrated rain cover can keep your belongings dry. A hydration reservoir sleeve is also present, which is ideal for high-exertion activities. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

• Frame type - Internal frame
• Frame material - Lightwire alloy frame
• Pack material - Nylon
• Capacity - 33 liters / 36 liters
• Dimensions - 27 inches x 13 inches x 13 inches
• Torso length - 16 inches to 20 inches / 19 inches to 23 inches
• Waist length - 26 inches to 45 inches / 28 inches to 50 inches
• Weight - 3 pounds
• Raincover - Available
• Reservoir sleeve - Available

2. REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack

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Durability-wise, the REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack is definitely a top-notch option. It is tailored from rugged, recycled ripstop nylon that can endure punishments and constant use. Compared to its previous version, the majority of its mesh has been removed to enhance its durability. Its padded hipbelt and harness ensure that wearing it is extremely comfortable. The padding from the hipbelt continues to the lumbar to prevent discomforts and "hot" areas. 

Furthermore, the REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack has impressive item management. Its compression straps can be passed through multiple loops, which, in turn, enables you to shape the pack based on the things you bring. Going forward, you'll notice that its water bottle pockets have inclined placements. Such a design allows you to access your hydration containers easily. This daypack also includes a raincover tucked beneath its top lid. Its steel inner frame guarantees that it can support burly and heavy loads. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

• Frame type - Internal frame
• Frame material - Steel
• Pack material - Nylon
• Capacity - 33 liters / 36 liters / 33 liters
• Dimensions - 25 inches x 13 inches x 11 inches/ 26 inches x 13 inches x 11 inches / 27 inches x 13 inches x 11 inches
• Torso length - 18 inches / 19 inches / 20 inches
• Waist length - 30 inches to 40 inches / 32 inches to 42 inches / 34 inches to 46 inches
• Weight - 2.7 pounds
• Raincover - Available
• Reservoir sleeve - Available

3. Gregory Citro 24 H2O Hydration Pack

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Are you looking for a hydration pack? Then you should check out the Gregory Citro 24 H2O Hydration Pack. This one features a 3D Hydro reservoir, which is both soft-molded and quick-drying. The reservoir can also contain up to 3 liters of water, ensuring that you are fully hydrated in your adventures. With its highly-breathable ActiveFlex shoulder harness, ventilation won't become a problem. The harness also includes a clip for its Drylock valve so that you can drink water easily. Paired with its SpeedClip hydration hanger, quenching your thirst becomes a breeze of a task!

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

• Frame type - Internal frame
• Frame material - Alloy steel
• Pack material - Nylon/polyester
• Capacity - 24 liters
• Dimensions - 21 inches x 11 inches x 8 inches
• Torso length - 16 inches to 21 inches
• Waist length - 28 inches to 48 inches
• Weight - 2 pounds
• Raincover - Available
• Reservoir sleeve - Available

4. Osprey Nebula Daypack

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The Osprey Nebula Daypack is a daypack for daily travelers. It has suitable components that make it an excellent utility for urban travel. Specifically, it includes external and internal pockets for efficient item organization. Moreover, it has a large primary compartment where a laptop sleeve is designed to handle your precious electronics. It also comes with multiple compression straps so that you can carry it comfortably, even on extended periods. With its dual-stretch water bottle pockets, staying hydrated is not a difficult thing to achieve!

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

• Frame type - Internal frame
• Frame material - Plastic
• Pack material - Nylon
• Capacity - 34 liters
• Dimensions - 19 inches x 12 inches x 11 inches
• Torso length - Unspecified
• Waist length - Unspecified
• Weight - 2.4 pounds
• Raincover - None
• Reservoir sleeve - None

5. Deuter Freerider Pro 34+ Snow Pack

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It is not that difficult to ascertain that the Deuter Freerider Pro 34+ SnowPack is designed for backcountry adventures. This unit is a winter pack that comes with a roll-top closure to keep your belongings safe and accessible. Furthermore, a collar in the closure adds 10 liters of storage space to the pack. If you don't use it, you can simply tuck it away. The Freerider series also flaunts multiple modular attachments so that you can affix your favorite snow gear conveniently. 

The pack also features the proprietary Alpine back system, which includes dual body-conforming pads and a single channel in between them. Such an intuitive design enables the pack to provide superb ventilation. The Deuter Freerider can also support bulky and heavy loads, thanks to its elastic spring steel inner frame. With its low-profile shoulder straps, the pack guarantees utmost transport convenience to its users. There are lash points installed in this pack so that you can attach additional accessory attachments. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

• Frame type - Internal frame
• Frame material - Delrin
• Pack material - Ripstop nylon
• Capacity - 34 liters
• Dimensions - 23 inches x 14 inches x 7 inches
• Torso length - Unspecified
• Waist length - Unspecified
• Weight - 2.8 pounds
• Raincover - None
• Reservoir sleeve - None

How To Choose The Best Daypacks For Men

Learning how to choose the correct daypack is essential. After all, there's a gamut of daypacks that you can get today, with each of them showcasing different features, capacities, and ergonomics. Furthermore, you should mind your body structure, as sizing differs for these packs. 

The following are the essential considerations that you should take into account when selecting a daypack.

Type Of Outdoor Activity

As I mentioned, these daypacks differ in their functionality. Some are designed for trail running, while others are suited for hiking. Here's how you can narrow down your options based on your intended activities:

• Hiking - A hiking daypack should come with hydration reservoirs and has numerous slots of water bottles. Its torso size and suspension construction should be compatible with your body. Depending on the length of your trip, you may pick either a large- or small-capacity daypack. 

• Climbing - Daypacks tailored for climbing have a slim profile so that your movements won't be restricted. Usually, they have padded back panels to support and regulate their load. Other climbing daypacks feature loops for ice axes and daisy chains for added utility. They have rugged fabrics, too, to ensure their resistance against abrasion. 

• Backpacking - If you do not intend to bring lots of loads on your backcountry trip, a technical daypack should be enough. However, for regular backpacking trips, you should go for those that have padded hipbelt and back for added support and comfort. The daypack should have a rugged internal frame, too. 

• Running - If you are into running, you should get a water bottle pack, technical daypack, waist pack, or running vest. These packs are essential because they don't jostle while you are running. They also have pockets attached to highly accessible reservoirs. Of course, they should be compatible with hydration reservoirs. 

• Snow-based activities - While you are in the snow and frigid environment, your daypack should enable unrestricted mobility. Hence, it should have a low-profile design. It must have a hipbelt and sternum strap so that they sway while you are wading in the snow. Furthermore, they should have attachment systems for snowboards, skis, and ice axes. Their fabric should be durable, as well. 

• Commuting and urban travels - In these activities, you don't need to use technical packs. Instead, you would want a pack that can carry your essentials. Specifically, they should have item organizers such as dividers, compartments, and sleeves for laptops and tablets. Ideally, you get a pack that enables you to hide the straps so that they won't snag in unlikely places. 

• Biking and cycling - When choosing a daypack for cycling, size does matter. You should prefer those that have low-profile construction so that they won't hinder your movements. They should also be lightweight and have sufficient wind resistance. The pack should have adequate capacity to hold your extra clothing and gear. If possible, get a pack that has a waist belt so that the bag won't jostle while you are pedaling. 

Capacity

One should know that daypacks vary in size. Hence, in choosing one, you have to gauge your needs and the items you have to bring. The pack should be big enough to accommodate all essentials.

• 10-liter packs (or less) - These small packs are suitable for lightweight applications such as cycling, running, and quick hikes. They are known for their low-profile and small-size construction, which allows them to only cater to selected essentials. They can stash lightweight equipment and accessories.

• 11- to 20-liter packs - These daypacks are still compact. However, they have sufficient space and pockets for item organization. They enable you to store the fundamental gear and necessities. Most of these packs are ideal for running, biking, and hiking. But they shouldn't be used on multi-day trips.

• 21- to 35-liter packs - For extended travels, these daypacks are the most suitable choice. They have the right size and number of pockets to keep multiple items and equipment at once. 

• 36- to 50-liter packs - If your trip requires you to bring several outdoor equipment and clothing, you would need a burly daypack. Specifically, you can benefit from them if you are heading for mountaineering or backcountry hiking. If you are a parent and you are carrying your kids' belongings, you might want to choose packs, too. 

Frame Type 

• Frameless - Frameless daypacks excel for their lightweight construction. They can easily conform to the shape of your body's posterior. However, they can't handle heavy loads. 
• Internal frame: If you are carrying a substantial load, you should go with those packs with inner frames. From plastic to aluminum frames, you have numerous options to choose from. As long as the frame is sturdy, it is guaranteed that the pack can carry more weight. 

In Summary

In choosing the best daypacks for men, functionality and durability are essential factors to consider. You should get a pack that provides the essential ergonomics that can help you in your intended trip. At the same time, it should be tough enough to withstand the elements, as well as physical abuse. Once these factors are met, your pack will be extremely useful to your adventure. 

That's it for now. If you have added inquiries, feel free to ask me in the comment section below.