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10 Best Hiking Daypacks of 2024

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When you’re heading out for a fun day on the trail, it’s vital to have all your essentials quickly and easily accessible. A good daypack should be comfy enough to wear all day, offer convenient storage options, and provide plenty of support for the weight you plan to carry. 

We’ve tested 45 daypacks and bagged over 700 peaks to find the most promising options and help you secure the best one for your needs.

If you want a pack that can also accommodate a water bladder, check out our guide to the best hydration packs . For bags with more capacity for longer trips and overnights, take a look at these trail-tested backpacking packs . And for those who need “snack-sized” carrying capacity, we have you covered with our review of our favorite fanny packs .

Quick Picks for DayPacks

Check out this quick list of the best daypacks or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorites with in-depth reviews.

Best daypack overall: Osprey Talon 22 Men’s ($160) / Tempest 20 Women’s ($160)

Best minimalist daypack: REI Flash 22 ($60)

Best budget daypack: Osprey Daylite Plus ($75)

Best ultralight daypack with a large capacity: Six Moon Designs Wy’east ($185)

Best hydration pack: Gregory Citro 24 H20 Men’s ($170) / Juno 24 H20 Women’s ($170)

Best compressible daypack: LL Bean Stowaway 22 ($65)

Roomy daypack for travel & long hikes:   REI Trail 25 ($100)

Versatile backpack for fast gear access: Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25 ($129)

Best bang for your buck: Venture Pal 35 ($26)

Our team has been busy evaluating some new daypacks and testing out revamped versions of our all-time favorites:

• The Gregory Zulu 30 earns a spot on the list thanks to its large capacity and comfortable, well-ventilated design.
• The LL Bean Stowaway Pack is a newly added wallet-friendly, packable backpack for short hikes and traveling.
• The REI Trail 25 is our pick for a versatile and durable bag that feels comfortable mile after mile.
• The Salomon Trailblazer 20 makes the cut for its sleek, efficient profile and simple features.
• We like the Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25 for the unique tri-zipper front access that makes gear access fast and practical.
• The Venture Pal 35 earns its keep as a budget-conscious, collapsible backpack with lots of pockets.

Osprey Talon 22 / Tempest 20

Best daypack overall

Price: $160

Weight: 2 lb. 1 oz. / 1 lb. 14.6 oz.

Capacity: 22 L / 20 L

Frame: Internal

• Comfortable hip belt and shoulder straps
• Padded and ventilated back panel
• Supportive frame
• Good organization
• Large, convenient main compartment opening
• Durable material
• External hydration sleeve
• Inclusive sizing
• A bit expensive
• On the heavier side
• Hydration sleeve is narrow

The Osprey Talon 22 (men’s) and Tempest 20 (women’s) are two of our all-time favorite daypacks due to their exceptional comfort and versatility. With wide, cushy hip belts, padded shoulder straps, and large ventilated back panels, these packs conform nicely to the body. They offer a robust internal frame, so these bags ride comfortably with just a few items or fully loaded.

The Talon and Tempest are suitable for a wide array of activities. They have tons of convenient storage compartments to keep you organized for a full-day hiking adventure. The two large hip belt pockets are big enough to fit a phone or snack wherever you are. We found the water bottle holders are a bit tight for larger bottles, but they are easily accessible with the pack on. We also appreciate the bike helmet attachment clip.

These packs are some of the only ones on our list that have an exterior hydration sleeve. This sleeve makes it far easier to check how much water you have left and refill your reservoir since you don’t have to pull out all of your other gear to access an internal sleeve. Having said that, the sleeve on the Talon 22 is very narrow, so it can take a minute to fit a full bladder back into the bag if you remove it completely.

We also found that when the external pockets and brain pockets are full, they encroach on the bag’s internal space, which makes it a bit cumbersome to access gear in the main storage pocket. That said, Osprey doesn’t skimp on any features when it comes to the Talon and Tempest – there’s a pocket, strap, and zipper for almost any adjustment or storage you might want.

Though the price of the Talon and Tempest is on the higher end for daypacks, we think they’re worth every penny if you’re after a do-it-all workhorse that can take you from amidst the maples to the meeting room.

• REI Flash 22

Best minimalist daypack

Weight: 14 oz.

Capacity: 22 L

Frame: None

• Lightweight
• Comfortable back panel
• Good organization for a minimalist design
• Frame doubles as removable sit pad
• Minimal structure
• 2-clip system for brain is clunky
• Floppy when empty

We love the REI Flash 22 . From short hikes where we don’t need to pack a lot of extras, to quick grocery runs, to day-long adventures, it is one of our go-to bags that can do it all. It’s one of our favorites due to its affordable price, lightweight design, and smart pocket layout. It also comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

For the minimalist, the Flash 22 is all you need. Gear Analyst, Ian Krammer, has summited over 600 peaks in the Colorado Rockies with the Flash 22, and he rarely needs more from a day pack. The storage is generous for a small bag, and the organization is intuitive and simple. We like the removable sit pad for breaks in the shade, and the thin foam adds just a bit of support to the back of the pack – this truly is a bag you can wear all day, from technical terrain to sidewalk strolls. At a mere 14 ounces, this is one of the lightest bags on our list, which makes it an excellent choice for keeping overall weight down.

The drawback is that the Flash 22 doesn’t have much in the way of structure, padding, or adjustability. If you’re planning long dusk-to-dawn adventures, you may want a bag with a more substantial hipbelt, internal frame, and a larger carrying capacity. And because it’s so lightweight, the pack can feel floppy when it’s not full.

In spite of this, the Flash 22 is outstanding for lightweight comfort and convenience. The water bottle holders are easy to reach, the zippered pocket on the top lid is perfect for storing small items we need often, and there’s just enough structure in the back panel and hipbelt to feel comfortable for long periods. We love this little daypack – and we think you will too.

• Osprey Daylite Plus

Best budget daypack

Weight: 1 lb. 5 oz.

Capacity: 20 L

• Less expensive
• Comfortable
• Removable hipbelt
• Stylish design
• Compression strap design isn’t our favorite
• External front pocket isn’t stretchy

The Osprey Daylite Plus is a trendy, comfortable, and affordable daypack. It is well-suited for use around town, on short-to-moderate length day hikes, and while traveling. Its stylish design makes the price tag even more appealing.

The organizational features on the Daylite Plus are better than most other daypacks of this size. Five external pockets allow you to keep water bottles and small items secure, organized, and easy to access on the go. Smart and simple internal pockets offer versatility for small item storage from wilderness to whiteboard, and the internal padded sleeve easily fits up to a 13-inch laptop or a 2-liter hydration pouch. 

This model is built to last, and that makes it a standout choice for those wanting a single do-it-all bag that will hold up to hard use. However, that also means it’s a bit heavier, putting it in the middle of this list for weight. 

But with clip-on compatibility that works with many Osprey travel bags, a 20-liter capacity that feels bigger than it is, and a durable build, there’s something for everyone in the Daylite Plus. Whether you’re trekking the high country or just lapping your neighborhood, we highly recommend this affordable and comfortable backpack.

Gregory Citro 24 H20 & Juno 24 H20

Best hydration daypack

Price: $170

Weight: 2 lb. / 1 lb. 15 oz.

Capacity: 24 L

• Hydration bladder included
• Very comfortable
• Good internal structure
• Transfers weight to hips well
• Large & convenient opening for main compartment
• Plus size available
• Heavier than some
• Side pockets are tight for wide bottles

The Gregory Citro 24 H20 (men’s) and Juno 24 H20 (women’s) are our favorite hydration packs . These bags feature simple, lightweight frames that offer just enough support to transfer weight to your hips for a very comfortable carry. We’ve found that with the 3-liter reservoir and all pockets full, these bags are more agile and streamlined than other daypacks with a similar capacity and weight.

The Citro and Juno have a ton of useful pockets including large and small zippered compartments, hipbelt pockets, and a stretchy front mesh pocket for stashing your hat or jacket. We appreciate the small pocket at the top with a divider for keys, chapstick, and more. Daypacks with zippered main compartments like this – as opposed to backpacks with the drawstring and top lid design – are often quicker and easier to get in and out of. 

Gregory also includes our top choice for hydration bladders – the 2-liter Gregory 3D Hydro – with the Citro and the Juno. We’re big fans of this reservoir because it’s durable, functional, and exceptionally easy to keep clean. These bags are built around the 3D Hydro, including adjustable clips to mount the mouthpiece on the shoulder straps, a ventilated mesh back to increase airflow, and a thick internal clip to keep the reservoir upright.

Because the reservoir is included, you’ll pay a bit more for the Citro and Juno, but these durable, made-for-the-trail bags will pay you back in spades. If you don’t need the bladder, we also love the regular Citro 24 and Juno 24 , which cost a little less.  But for hikers who want comfort, storage, and one of the best hydration systems on the market all in one bag, it’s tough to beat the Gregory Citro 24 H20 and Juno 24 H20.

• Six Moon Designs Wy’east

Best ultralight pack for long day hikes & quick overnights

Price: $185

Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz.

Capacity: 30 L

• Lightweight for the volume
• Frame is a removable sit pad
• Shoulder strap pockets
• Comfortable over long distances
• Highly water-resistant
• Wide shoulder straps don’t sit well on all body types
• Suboptimal brain organization

The Six Moon Designs Wy’east is one of the lightest daypacks we’ve tested, but it comes with one of the largest capacities – 30 liters – and is loaded with convenient features. This bag is great for long hikes when you need to carry bulky items, and it can even work as an overnight pack for those with fully ultralight setups.

We like that the frame doubles as a foam sit pad, and it offers a total of 10 external lash points for strapping on gear. The deep stash pocket and water bottle pockets are made of strong material, so they’ll last longer than the mesh on most other bags.

We love all the pockets of the Wy-East – with this much storage, the bag performs like a backpacking backpack, without the bulk or weight, but can easily carry a tablet or books with ease. The Wy’east comes with two useful shoulder strap pockets and wide hip pockets. The hip belt is removable, so this bag is extra versatile as a casual carrier around town or a burly backpack for the deep woods.

Our main issue with this bag is that the shoulder straps are a bit wider, so it’s not a great fit for those with narrow shoulders or small frames. And, the foam frame – while great as a sit pad – doesn’t offer as much structure for heavier loads.

If you’re looking for a comfy, colorful, and quality daypack that excels in weight and features, this is it. Ultralight hikers looking for the perfect go-between for big-mile day hikes and short overnights also can’t go wrong with the Wy’east.

• Gregory Zulu 30

Comfortable & well-ventilated backpack for long days

Weight: 3 lb. 1.9 oz.

• Enables high organization
• Large volume
• Easy access U-zip opening
• Adjustable torso
• Water bottle pockets are tight & shallow
• Few lash points

The Gregory Zulu 30 hits the mark for everything we want in a large daypack. When it comes to managing heavier loads, carrying bulky gear, or simply longer day hikes, the Zulu is truly built for comfort. 

This backpack has an adjustable torso length of up to 3.5 inches, meaning it can fit a variety of body sizes. It’s easy to get a super customized and comfy fit based on your needs and the weight of the backpack.

The Zulu 30 also features a lightweight internal frame, tons of padding and support on the hipbelt and shoulder pads, and enough ventilation to keep your back cool if you’re trudging through the heat. Though the mesh water bottle pockets are thin and a bit shallow, they also come with nylon cinch straps to keep your bottles in place so you can hydrate on the go.

This bag has tons of pockets, including seven on the outside alone. Its giant U-zip at the top allows the bag to open widely and quickly for access to the interior and features another zippered compartment for stashing all your small items. A dedicated water bladder pocket and hook are compatible with most two- and three-liter hydration pouches.

This is a large-volume bag, which means that it weighs more. At just over three pounds, the Zulu 30 is one of the heaviest backpacks on our list. That said, it also has exceptional capacity, adjustability, and a robust set of features.

This model is a worthy choice for those who want a roomy, comfortable daypack but don’t mind a bit of extra weight. We recommend the Zulu 30 as a top option for new hikers who want to bring some extra layers or snacks, for parents carrying the kids’ water and gear, or for a seasoned hiking veteran who needs the larger capacity for a longer trip.

LL Bean Stowaway

Best compressible backpack

• Packs small (6”x6”)
• Tons of pockets
• Not as durable
• Uncomfortable over extra long distances
• Shallow mesh pockets

The LL Bean Stowaway Pack is a workhorse for hiking, traveling, or on-the-go adventure. This stowable pack delivers in spades, including plenty of storage, padded mesh for comfort on the back and shoulder straps, and a clean aesthetic.

The main highlight of the Stowaway is just how lightweight and compressible it is. This stylish award winner weighs a mere 14 ounces. It only takes about a minute to transform into a package only 6 inches square. At that size, it easily fits in a suitcase or backpack when heading out on longer trips, making this bag a perfect choice whether you’re day hiking or traveling around the world. 

And, the Stowaway is super functional. This model punches well above its weight class for organization and comfort, featuring six functional pockets, adjustable sternum and waist straps, and multiple colorways. It’s made of 75D ripstop polyester, making it more durable than other packable backpacks. This is the ideal bag to deploy for side trips, summits, and smaller excursions while you leave the rest of your gear behind for a bit.

The tradeoff for that packability is that the Stowaway has no frame, so it isn’t great for super long days on the trail. We recommend a clothing layer inside the pack against your back for cushioning to add a bit of structure to the bag. However, it’s very convenient for travel and short hikes. 

This little pack is simple, stuffable, and super versatile. If you keep the load light, you’ll hardly notice it on your back – and at only $65, you’ll hardly notice it on your wallet, too. The LL Bean Stowaway is a great backpack for travelers, hikers, and people who need a lightweight, packable daypack.

• REI Trail 25

Roomy pack that’s great for travel & long hikes

Price: $100

Weight: 2 lb.

Capacity: 25 L

• Lots of external lash points
• Built-in rain cover
• Only one external zippered pocket
• Main storage compartment can be awkward

The REI Trail 25 is a great choice for those who need one pack that can do it all. This is a super comfortable and durable backpack for almost any hiking adventure.

The supportive hipbelt makes the Trail 25 one of the best options on our list for hikes where you need to carry a little extra weight. The padded, mesh-covered straps and back keep you cooler, and a lightweight frame sheet with an ergonomic design makes the backpack structured but not rigid. 

With features like fasteners for trekking poles, tons of external lash points for strapping on gear, and a built-in rainfly, this backpack is made for ease of use and comfort. We’re also big fans of the wrap-around zipper on the main compartment. It extends almost to the bottom of the bag, making it easy to pack and access your items when traveling or hiking.

The only reason the Trail 25 doesn’t rank higher is that it’s a bit large and heavy for most casual day hikes. We like the stellar organization, but we also found having all the pockets and zippers for small items inside of the flap makes the bag feel awkward to open. That said, this is a minor point – the Trail 25 can even work as a school backpack because of all the organizational pockets and the padding on the back.

• Salomon Trailblazer 20

Streamlined pack that balances support & simplicity

Weight: 14.6 oz.

• Comfortable straps
• Simple compartments
• Slim profile
• Zippered waist pocket
• Side pockets too small for many water bottles
• Tapered bottom limits internal storage
• No stuff pocket

The Salomon Trailblazer 20 is comparable in size, shape, and comfort to the REI Flash 22, but it features a bit more padding and a more substantial hip belt with a pocket. It’s a fairly simple and familiar pack, but the lightweight design is ideal for adventures where you’re only taking a few essentials.

The Trailblazer 20 comes with intuitive and user-friendly storage. A small zippered pocket at the top is perfect for keys and a large U-shaped zipper offers lots of organization inside for easy and structured access to sunglasses, chapstick, and other small items. This 20-liter bag still features a wide internal pocket that serves double-time as a hydration reservoir when hiking, or as a laptop pocket for work. 

Overall, we like the stylish and minimalist design of the Trailblazer 20, but we wish the bottom wasn’t tapered as much. This profile gives the bag a sleek and stylish look, but it limits the internal capacity more than we’d prefer. That said, this model offers just enough room for a personal bag.

The Trailblazer 20 goes toe-to-toe with the Flash 22 for the best small daypack design. If you’re after more durability, storage, and comfort, go with the Trailblazer 20. If simplicity and low weight are what you want, choose the Flash 22.

• Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25

Price: $129

Weight: 1 lb. 6 oz.

• Tri-zip allows unrivaled access to gear
• Bulky profile
• Lots of straps

The Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25 is one of the most durable and versatile options out there. This bag is made to do it all, whether you’re biking in a city park, boarding the airplane for work, or gearing up for a local hike.

What sets it apart from other contenders on this list is its triple-zipper front access. This model forgoes a mesh stash pocket on the front of the bag in favor of a Y-shaped design. This translates into unmatched main compartment access. For hikers who want to get to the bottom of their pack without removing everything on top, the tri-zipper is a unique and practical innovation.

This model offers plenty of external lash points and multiple gear loops to bring along anything you need. The broad, comfortable shoulder straps feature two additional cinch pockets and removable sternum and hip straps. Like the Wy’east, we found the shoulder straps are best for those with a broad upper body and a bit too wide at the bottom to fit narrower frames well.

Our biggest issue with the Gallagator 25 comes down to the minimal organizational pockets. It only has one large zippered external pocket in the brain. We appreciate this area, but it doesn’t have internal dividers or zippers, so you’ll need to dig for a while to find what you’re looking for or use other small organizer bags. We also found the water bottle pockets are a bit oversized for even our biggest containers.

Because of the many zippers and long nylon straps, we don’t think the Gallagator 25 is as aesthetic or modern as other bags on this list. But, where it falls short in style, it more than makes up for it with solid construction, excellent comfort, and great accessibility. And, at only one pound, six ounces, the Gallagator 25 is impressively light for how durable it is. 

This pack is one of the most unique bags on the list. For hikers who prioritize gear access over everything, this Mystery Ranch model is a durable, lightweight, and functional bag that’s built to handle most activities from streets to streams.

Osprey Stratos 24 & Sirrus 24

Supportive & well-ventilated daypack for long hikes

Price: $180

Weight: 2 lbs. 12 oz.

• Innovative ventilating back panel
• Useful hiking pole hook system
• Comfortable mesh back
• Good pocket organization
• Includes raincover
• Strong build
• No outer stash pocket

The Osprey Stratos 24 (men’s) and Sirrus 24 (women’s) have some of the most comfortable frames of any daypacks we’ve tested. The Stratos and Sirrus feature stretch-mesh back panels that extend from the shoulder straps to the back to the hipbelt. This soft, breathable mesh feels incredibly cushy on the body.

Like the Gregory Zulu, we love that these Osprey models offer an adjustable torso length. No matter who is using them or how the weight in your pack is distributed, you can easily adjust it to fit your body size. These backpacks seamlessly transfer weight to the hipbelt, so even when they are packed full, you won’t feel uncomfortable.

The Stratos and Sirrus have a solid organizational system as well with convenient gear storage pockets, two hipbelt pockets, and easy-to-reach water bottle holsters. We found the zippered front panel pocket to be a bit cumbersome to access, but many hikers will love this design because it keeps items more secure. And, these bags include a rain cover with a dedicated pocket at the bottom. If you’re hiking in clear conditions, you can remove the pack cover and gain an extra pocket – or keep it to keep your gear dry in afternoon showers.

The Stratos and Sirrus are some of the heaviest daypacks on this list and carry the highest price tag as well – which is why they’re near the bottom of the list. We’ve also found these bags are so substantial that they’re not our first choice for short adventures when we just don’t need to carry that much. However, when it comes to organization, durability, and support, these packs are head of the class.

Featuring Osprey’s popular Airspeed suspension system, these are exceptionally comfortable and well-ventilated daypacks built for extended adventures. If you need extra support for carrying heavier loads, the Stratos 24 and Sirrus 24 backpacks are going to be tough to beat.

• Venture Pal 35

Best bang for your buck

Weight: 11.2 oz.

Capacity: 35 L

• Packs into itself (9"x8")
• Tons of colors
• Lots of storage
• Waterproof liner
• Floppy material
• Less comfortable over long distances

The Venture Pal 35 is the ultimate budget backpack. At only $26, you get a cavernous 35-liter backpack that comes in a dozen colorways and folds into a compact 9-inch by 8-inch package. 

Despite its very low price, this bag is loaded with features. It comes with a waterproof liner and an internal pouch big enough for a tablet or a book. It’s highly adjustable, so you can cinch down the volume to reduce the profile when it’s not fully packed. The Venture Pal also comes with three huge zippered pockets and two water bottle pockets, plus a sternum strap with a whistle for support and safety.

At only 11.2 ounces, this is one of the lightest packs on our list – and at 35 liters, it also has the largest capacity. We don’t typically recommend bags over 30 liters when it comes to daypacks, but the Venture Pal is one of the few exceptions. With an excellent size-to-weight ratio and low price, this model bends the rules. 

As a lightweight and inexpensive pack, this model has some predictable issues. The Venture Pal is made with beefy canvas and nylon material that’s built to last, however, the zippers, stitching, and mesh are not as durable. Over time, the waterproof lining begins to fail.

And, this backpack doesn’t have any internal structure, so it can look and feel floppy, and it’s not well-suited for heavy loads so we don’t recommend it for long hikes. Having said that, it’s a versatile option for short hikes, travel, and daily use.

If you’re looking for a backpack that packs small, still offers a ton of space, and is one of the most affordable day bags on the market – this is the pack for you.

Buying Guide For Hiking Daypacks

We have our list of favorites, but maybe you prioritize different characteristics of each pack a little differently. Below, we break down our recommendations along the dimensions of price, capacity, and weight, so that you can find the option that makes the most sense for you depending on what you care about the most.

PRICE  

A high-quality daypack can be expensive, but it’s worth the cost to get a bag that’s comfortable for hours at a time, has plenty of easy-access pockets, and is durable enough to last for years. If it’s in your budget, we recommend spending a bit more upfront to save you from the hassle and expenses of replacing a worn-out daypack down the road.

Best budget hiking daypacks

• LL Bean Stowaway 22

Best mid-range daypacks

• Osprey Talon 22 (men’s) / Tempest 20 (women’s)

Best high-end daypack

• Gregory Citro 24 H20 (men’s) / Juno 24 H20 (women’s)
• Osprey Stratos 24 (men’s) / Sirrus 24 (women’s)

For short day hikes on well-established trails, or for those who go ultralight or minimalist, a lightweight pack with a capacity of around 20 liters may be all you need. If you’re looking for a bag that offers more room, you hike in areas with unpredictable weather and need to carry more gear, or you like spending long days on the trail, you’ll likely want a pack with a more robust weight distribution system and a larger capacity (30+ liters).

Best minimalist daypacks

Best fully-featured daypacks

• Osprey Stratos 24 (men’s) and Sirrus 24 (women’s)

When you’re just out for the day, weight isn’t as big of a concern, and you can pack along a few extra luxuries. An ultralight daypack will get the job done with ease, although they generally don’t have a frame and need to be packed more carefully. We still recommend keeping your load as light as possible to give yourself the best chance of hiking further for longer and to reduce strain on your muscles and joints.

Sometimes your adventure will call for heavier gear , like when you’re heading deeper into the backcountry, traveling over snow, or carrying equipment like an ice axe or rope for summiting mountains. If this describes the majority of your hiking trips, you should consider one of the more supportive daypacks below. They often have internal frames that provide more structure and better support on long miles.

Best lightweight daypacks

Most supportive daypacks

REI Trail 40 ( Men’s & Women’s ) – Photo Credit: Heather Eldridge (CLEVERHIKER.COM)

Osprey Talon 22 ( Men’s ) & Tempest 20 ( Women’s ) – Photo Credit: Annie Hopfensperger (CLEVERHIKER.COM)

HMG Daybreak – Photo Credit: Dave Collins (CLEVERHIKER.COM)

OSPREY DAYLITE – PHOTO CREDIT: HEATHER ELDRIDGE (CLEVERHIKER.COM)

How to Choose a Hiking Daypack

The capacity of a daypack is typically measured in liters. Most daypacks have capacities ranging between 10-35 liters. Daypacks with a 20-30 liter capacity tend to be the most popular (and the size we use most often) because they offer enough room for a variety of outdoor adventures and have plenty of space for the 10 day hiking essentials .

ORGANIZATION

Most daypacks have a large top-loading compartment for storing the majority of your gear, two external side pockets for water bottles, and a separate compartment on top for stashing smaller items. We prefer bags with additional organization pockets internally and externally to make it easy to compartmentalize and access gear. Many daypacks also have a front mesh stash pocket, which is convenient for storing gear we use often like a raincoat , water filter , or a hat and gloves .

Some daypacks are frameless, meaning they have little to no structure to disperse weight across your back and onto your hips. They use a thin foam pad to add a bit of structure to the back. Frameless packs are highly portable and handy for quick trips. 

Heavier packs usually feature a frame – typically a rounded piece of lightweight metal – to add structure to the bag. These packs also usually feature plenty of padding, pockets, and a hipbelt, so they’re better when you’ll need more support and storage on longer adventures with heavy loads.

BACK PANEL & VENTILATION

Some daypacks have a mesh back panel design which allows for more airflow and ventilation on the trail. Your back is still going to get sweaty, but many hikers find those types of frames to be more comfortable and keep the actual backpack from sticking to your body. Packs with simple back panel designs usually incorporate foam padding for comfort and add grooves to help with ventilation. Others don’t have any framing, so you’ll need to choose what to pack and how to pack carefully. All three designs work well in their different niches.

A hipbelt’s primary function is to distribute the weight of your pack to your hips, to help alleviate strain on your shoulders. Many hip belts also feature convenient pockets, which provide easy access to items you’ll want readily available on the trail like snacks , sunscreen, lip balm, and your phone. Most minimalist daypacks forego hip belts in favor of a simpler nylon strap that still adds a bit of stability and weight transfer. Be sure to try on both types to determine which you prefer.

STERNUM STRAP

Sternum straps are included on almost all daypacks. They give you the option to connect your shoulder straps across your chest for a more secure carry and can help keep your bag from bouncing or swinging too much. It’s a nice touch when the sternum strap has an elastic section for a little give while moving, and the clip has an emergency whistle built in.

HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY

Water bottles and hydration bladders are the two most common ways to stay hydrated on the trail. If you prefer drinking from a reservoir, also known as a water bladder, make sure to get a daypack that has a hydration port to feed the tube through, and a reservoir pocket to hold the bladder. In general, we prefer the ease and convenience of water bottles, but a water bladder can be essential for extended time above treeline where long water carries can be necessary, or an easy day hike. We also have a great list of the Best Hydration Packs if you’re looking for a daypack that comes with an included hydration system.

WATER BOTTLE HOLSTERS

Hydration is key while hiking, so if you’re not using a hydration bladder, your water bottles should always be easy to access from your side pockets. Some minimalist ultralight packs don’t have water bottle pockets which is far less convenient in our opinion. That’s why every backpack on this list has water bottle holsters for ease of use.

WATERPROOFING 

Most daypacks don’t offer much water protection on their own. Your pack will likely shed a light drizzle and morning mist with no problem, but water will eventually seep through your backpack’s seams and work its way into your gear with prolonged exposure. Some daypacks come with pack covers included but they will eventually wet out in heavy rain too.

We recommend packing your gear in waterproof stuff sacks or Ziploc bags inside your pack. You can also line the inside of your backpack with a strong trash bag to keep all your stuff dry. Even when a daypack truly is waterproof, we’ve learned it doesn’t stay that way for long, so we still play it safe and bag up our most important gear when the skies are darkening with rain clouds.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

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Finding Purpose in every Step

Best Hiking subReddits to follow

Reddit needs no introduction. For hiking and hikers there are several communities that you can join to mingle with fellow hikers. These are the ones to follow!

As a Reddit user since 2014 I have wasted quite a bit of time on the different subreddits. The only constant where time was not really wasted was on the several history subreddits. And of course why you are here, the Hiking, backpacking, and camping subreddits. Let’s dive into the ones that are worth a look around.

Updated 9-7-2022

Quick jump guide

• r/TrailMeals

r/HikerTrashMeals

R/backpacking, r/campingandhiking, r/campinggear.

• r/Ultralight

r/WildernessBackpacking

R/backpackingstoves, reddit is fun, even for hikers.

Reddit is a great place to reach other hikers and discuss gear. You can subscribe to your favorite subreddits and interests. That way it is geared towards you and is different than other social media platforms. Not only pretty pictures but real advice and discussion in all formats.

r/Trailmeals

The subreddit Trailmeals is a favorite of mine and I post there with new trailmeal recipes. Hikers are always hungry, and this is the place to pick up some new ideas for your next hiking trip. TrailMeals is however also shared by car campers and people carrying around cast iron. Some of the recipes are therefore more for those circumstances.

Some of the Top posts are great examples of meals that you can make yourself with a dehydrator, or with ready made examples from a grocery store. Dehydrate, put in a ZipLoc and hit the trail!

HikerTrashMeals is a more recent addition to Reddit, and is really focused on the hiker trash recipes we know and love. From great ideas from what you can get from the supermarket to the recipes that are shared. On HikerTrashMeals you really are only allowed to share compact and easy-to-prepare recipes, it is, therefore, more suited for backpacking and hiking.

The subreddit r/Hiking is mainly focused on the pretty pictures that you take while out hiking. If you enjoy looking at outdoor pictures this is a good place. For discussion not so much. They do not allow much besides pictures on this one.

Backpacking drifts more towards the hostel travelers and explorers. Not necessarily to hiking itself. Still fun to follow now and then to check out what other people are doing that you will meet along different hiking trails.

CampingandHiking is a subreddit where some more is allowed than the hiking subreddit. This is a good one to follow for the more general advice and memes. Also a lot of pictures.

Campinggear is focused on the gear that you take out hiking and camping, as the name suggests. This one is great for spotting deals on gear, reviewing gear and hearing other hikers opinions about the gear.

r/TrailGuides

TrailGuides is meant for hikers that have hiked a trail and published a trail guide for it. Either on Reddit or other outlets. If your looking for a trail to do next this is a nice one to keep an eye on.

r/UltraLight

Ultralight is my second favorite hiking subreddit to follow. Since this is about ultra light hiking gear and the philosophy behind it. And that is a subject I find very interesting. Getting your pack as light as possible so you can hike more comfortably and farther without aching knees or backs.

If you are having trouble lightening your backpacking loadout you can ask the hikers here for a shakedown as well. Where you will receive tips on what backpacking and hiking gear to ditch and what to bring.

WildernessBackpacking more closely follows the true outdoor experience. Getting out into the backcountry far away from people. The subreddit allows only content related to that and hikers share pictures and more content related to it. This is a great place to look at some of the more remote places and the backpacking that goes on there.

A real nice place to scout out possible locations that other hikers are in. And a true way to test your metal on different hikes that go on there. Not really geared towards thru-hiking but more leaning towards the bushcraft side / staying in remote places.

This is a quite recent subreddit that allows only content for the gear heads towards backpacking or hiking stoves. If your quite nerdy about the most powerful stoves of making your own alcohol stoves this is the subreddit for you.

Types like the BRS lightweight stoves or old school Optimus burners are shared and discussed here. A great place for any stove recommendations or just talking shop about different backpacking stoves.

Subscribing to different subreddits, and what app to use.

There are a few options to use Reddit, you can use your desktop or laptop to browse the different subreddits or you can install an app on your phone or tablet. My favorite way to browse the different subreddits is to use the Reddit is fun application. With a lot of different options to set and use you can tailor it even more to your preferences.

Install the application via the following link on your Android Smartphone .

Or install the Official Reddit app on the App store for iPhone .

After that it is a simple step to log in or make a new Reddit account, and subscribing to your favorite subreddits. Type the ones you want to subscribe to in the search bar for the different subreddits and hit the little plus mark before it. That’s it! You now follow the ones you want and get updates from new posts about it on your very own front page!

That’s it for this article, hope you found some new subreddits you will enjoy. Happy hiking and hike for purpose!

I'm Frank, the main guy and owner of this website. Loves hiking, gear and bushcraft. And can get quite nerdy about them. In the woods several times a week preparing for my next hike. Always searching for another hill, which is quite difficult in the Netherlands. That's why I search around several countries. More about me on the about page.

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10 Great Day Hikes from Seattle

Get out of the city with these trails ranging from easy to ultra challenging.

From the peaks of the Cascades, across the coastal rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula, to towering volcanoes like Mt. Rainier, hiking Washington’s diverse landscapes is an experience unlike any other. The trails, many of which pass through beauitful Northwest forests with snow-capped peaks in the distance, are well kept and offer challenges for all levels of experience. Our picks for the best day hikes near Seattle below run the gamut from easy and popular trails just outside of the city to some of the toughest day hikes around. Enjoy!  

1. Rattlesnake Ledge (Snoqualmie Pass)

Start: I-90 Exit 32 ( map ) Difficulty: Easy Length: 4 miles roundtrip

For a short and relatively easy day hike, it doesn’t get much better than a gently-sloping trail through old growth forest, a view over Snoqualmie Pass and the Southern Cascades, and a trailhead only 40 minutes east of Seattle. The hike starts off on the shores of Rattlesnake Lake and cuts through a series of switchbacks that rise 1,000 feet over 1.5 miles. The path is steadily uphill but never overly difficult, which means that the ledge is crowded on weekends and sunny summer days (it’s a great option for watching the sunset after work or as a trail run). Before or after the hike, the lake itself is a great place to relax, walk, swim, and fish. For tougher hikes near the city, popular Little Si and Mount Si (below) across the valley are similar but slightly more challenging.

2. Little Si and Mount Si (Snoqualmie Pass)

Start: I-90 Exit 32 ( map ) Difficulty: Easy; moderate Length: 5 miles; 8 miles

The easy access to Little Si and Mount Si make them two of the highly-trafficked day hikes in the Seattle area. We like Little Si best, which is a 5-mile roundtrip excursion with around 1,200 feet in elevation gain. The forested path is excellent and there are a number of interesting rock formations along the way (it’s also very popular for climbing). The top has good views of North Bend, the Upper Snoqualmie Valley, and Mount Si hovering above to the north. Mount Si is a more involved day hike at a distance of 8 miles roundtrip and with an elevation gain of around 3,150 feet. It’s not that Mount Si isn’t a really nice hike, it’s just that we think there are better options for that kind of effort (see Granite Mountain below). But you can’t knock the proximity to Seattle—both Little Si and Mount Si are accessed via exit 32 on I-90, less than a 45-minute drive from downtown.

3. Mt. Pilchuck (Mountain Loop Highway)

Start: Quarry Road off Highway 92 ( map ) Difficulty: Moderate Length: 5.4 miles roundtrip

For a moderate one-day summit from Seattle, it’s tough to find a better hike than the one up Mt. Pilchuck. Located on the Mountain Loop Highway just over an hour north of downtown, this hike offers big-time scenery quickly and will not disappoint. You rise with views of the North Cascades and classic alpine terrain, finally curling around the summit for huge expanses including the Olympic Peninsula, Puget Sound, San Juan Islands, and Mt. Rainier. This hike is only 5.4 miles roundtrip but relatively steep and therefore intermediate in difficulty.

The biggest issue with Mt. Pilchuck is the crowds. In many ways, this is the mini-Mt. Everest of Seattle—we’ve hiked it on a clear summer Sunday and literally been in a line of 30-40 hikers near the top. Even on a blustery February weekday we came across 20-30 hikers battling snow and ice along the way. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t do Mt. Pilchuck, just try to get up early. If you can depart your Seattle home by 6am, grab a double latte, and hit the road, you can be at the trailhead by 7:30am. By doing this you will avoid the vast majority of people. Show up at 11am and you may see your neighbors and coworkers up there too.

4. Ebey’s Landing (Whidbey Island)

Start: End of Cook Road to the Prairie Overlook trailhead ( map ) Difficulty: Moderate Length: Up to 5.6 miles roundtrip

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The Best Daypacks of 2024

Going on a hike, bike ride, or simply commuting? You'll need a daypack to carry all your gear (or at the very least, snacks). Check out our review for the best daypacks of 2024.

Daypacks are simple pieces of gear, but it can be tricky to find the right one based on style, fit, and your needs. We’ve broken down the best daypacks into a few different categories to help you choose.

What we love most about all of these best daypacks is their versatility. Grab one when taking your dog on a walk, heading into the office or the classroom, or hitting the mountains for a day hike, bike ride, and more. The trick is to find one that hits these four criteria: comfort, fit, included features, and ideal price.

Our expert gear testers have been reviewing daypacks since 2021, meticulously researching and testing the best on the market to keep this review up to date. These packs have been taken on extensive outings from the desert slopes of the Sierra Nevada to the green forested mountains of the Pacific Northwest.

Our testers hiked miles with each, loading them up with typical gear for a day’s outing, and making sure to take notes on each one. To choose the best of the best, we ranked each pack on quality, feedback from our testing, and price.

Read on for our best daypack selections as well as our daypack buyer’s guide . And for help with any hairsplitting decisions, check out our comparison chart and FAQ sections .

Editor’s Note: We updated our Daypacks guide on March 18, 2024, to add a number of new and worthy packs including the Patagonia Refugio, Gregory Miko & Maya, and the Mystery Ranch Gallagator.

• Best Overall Daypack: Deuter Speed Lite 25
• Best Budget Daypack: REI Co-op Flash 22
• Runner-Up Best Daypack: REI Co-op Trail 25
• Best Commuter Daypack: Salomon Trailblazer 20
• Best Hybrid Running Daypack: Arc’teryx Aerios 18
• Most Technical Daypack: Black Diamond Pursuit 15
• Best Women’s-Specific Daypack: Osprey Tempest Pro 20

Deuter Speed Lite 25

• Material 100D and 140D high-tenacity 100% recycled polyamide
• Pockets Three external stretch
• Suspension style Deuter’s Lite System, a tensioned Derlin U frame
• Hydration-compatible Yes, up to 3 L
• Ideal use Any and everything
• Weight 1 lb., 9 oz.

• Carries weight well
• Bluesign-certified body fabric
• Frame limits packability for travel
• Shoulder pocket a bit too small to hold phone

The Speed Lite series from Deuter has been a tester favorite around these parts since their introduction, and now newly updated to incorporate a running-vest style harness system, a more breathable back panel, and everything we loved about the previous models, the Deuter Speed Lite 25 ($120) stands above the rest as our choice of best overall daypack available today.

Let’s start off with the big changes: the suspension system. While the smaller volumes retain S-style pack straps, the 25L versions and above have now adopted a well-executed vest-style harness. We’ve come to really appreciate this style of strap system on lower-volume packs, and Deuter does it excellently. Each strap spreads out the load across the upper torso, and sports stretch mesh pockets to port along essentials.

Turning to the body of the pack, you get a slimmed 25L capacity that balances well with the hip belt fins and Derlin U-frame suspension. And 25 L is just about the limit of where we like to see some type of frame involved in a daypack construction, and Deuter again nails it here. During our test hikes, we felt well supported — even with a pack filled all the way to the brim.

Rounding out this do-it-all daypack are a number of features that we’ve come to feel naked without, such as a trekking pole attachment system, stretch-mesh back and side pockets, and an interior valuables compartment. We will note that the zippered shoulder strap pocket was a bit too snug to carry modern phones, however — and the larger pockets on the Black Diamond Pursuit 15 and the Arc’teryx Aerios 18 may be better for this.

Perfect for anyone who wants a daypack that leaves little on the cutting room floor, the Deuter Speed Lite 25 jams in all of our favorite features, and carries it all with an updated vest-style suspension system. If you’re in need of a bit more room, the Speed Lite series also offers a 30L and 28L women’s version, and if you’re feeling more spartan, there are also smaller 17L and 21L options .

REI Co-op Flash 22

• Material Recycled ripstop nylon
• Pockets 1 main compartment, 1 hydration sleeve, 1 small zippered pocket on front, 2 water bottle pockets on each side
• Suspension style Frameless foam back panel (removable)
• Ideal use Trail to town
• Weight 14 oz.

• Budget price
• Packability
• Lower capacity
• Not much structure

The REI Co-op Flash 22 ($60) weighs just 14 ounces and has a drawcord top closure, detachable sternum and hip straps, a hydration reservoir compartment, and two side pockets. It’s made with recycled materials and ripstop nylon, and at a budget price of $60, it easily lands as our top budget daypack.

The Flash 22 offers great quality for the price and during testing, we found it to be a great “town-to-trail” option. There’s no bulky padding or internal frame, which helps keep the weight down and makes it a fairly packable option. This is an excellent pack to ball up and toss into a larger pack or luggage for quick forays out from a base camp. The back panel pad can even be removed and used as a sit pad while eating lunch on a long hike.

Newly updated, the Flash 22 is now made with recycled Bluesign-approved nylon, and we greatly appreciate that REI is on top of continual updates to make this pack even better. At 22 L, it isn’t the largest daypack, and our testers reported a need for careful packing in order to avoid an uncomfortable carry. But for the price, it’s hard to beat for a budget pick. 

If you’re looking for something even lighter and more slimmed down, the Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Del Dia Pack is another great choice at the same price point, though it lacks the side pockets and waistband of the Flash 22. Stuffed away for quick deployment, the REI Co-op Flash 22 makes an excellent day pack for side trips on longer backpacking or travel trips.

REI Co-op Trail 25

• Pockets 2 mesh side pockets, 1 main compartment, 2 zippered pockets, 1 pocket for hydration bladder
• Suspension style Internal HPDE framesheet
• Hydration-compatible Yes
• Ideal use Day hikes, around town
• Weight 1 lb., 15 oz.

• Comfortable
• Lots of useful features
• Good quality materials
• No padded waist belt
• Pockets can make the front flap of the pack top heavy

Affordable, comfortable, with plenty of pockets and some nice design features, the REI Co-op Trail 25 ($80) is a great runner-up pack to our top pick. Our testers have found that 25 L is the sweet spot for a daypack, being just enough room for some snacks and layers, plenty of water, sunscreen, bug spray, a book, and any other accessories you might need for the day. This size also ensures that you won’t pack your bag too heavy, keeping it light for your day hikes or bike rides around town. 

One of the metrics we measure a daypack by is how easy it is to quickly grab things out of it, and the stretchy mesh pockets on the sides make it easy to carry a 32-ounce Nalgene bottle for frequent sipping. There is a compartment in the back of the pack that will fit a 3L hydration bladder as well, and an interior and exterior zip pocket keeps your smaller accessories organized.

One issue our testers found, however, is that since both of the smaller pockets are located at the top of the front flap of the main compartment, they can get heavy and make the pack awkward to open and close. This isn’t as much of an issue, however, if the main compartment itself is full enough. 

With some of the plushest back padding and straps in our review, an included rain cover, and straps to stash trekking poles, the Trail 25 is a great choice for any avid day hiker. If you’re looking for something a little lighter that doesn’t sacrifice features and support, the Salomon Trailblazer 20 is another great choice, and the Matador Freerain22 is an even lighter, packable bag great for adventures or everyday use.

Salomon Trailblazer 20

• Material Polyester, polyamide, elastane, polyethylene
• Pockets 1 belt zippered pocket, 1 main compartment, 1 pocket with lateral zip access, 1 internal bladder sleeve, 1 top pocket with key holder, 2 side stretch pockets, 1 belt stretch pocket
• Suspension style Padded back system with padded hip belt
• Ideal use Daily driver
• Weight 14.6 oz.

• Good size for daily use
• Many pockets
• Comfortable padded hip belt
• Small shoulder straps
• Not great for running or fast mountain pursuits

The Salomon Trailblazer 20 Pack ($70) is a unisex daypack and a great all-arounder and daily driver. Its 20L size is the sweet spot for bike commuting, gym-going, short errands, and day hikes. This pack is easy-to-use, with one main compartment along with stretch side compartments for water bottles or other accessories. 

Something our testers really loved about this pack is that the waist belt features its own zip pocket, which adds to the overall versatility of this pack. Most small packs have minimalist, unpadded waist belts, and we appreciated that the Salomon has this pocket feature as well as padding for extra comfort, making it a cut above the rest.

Although this daypack looks simple, it has even more features that make it a great commuter pack. A hanging computer sleeve provides storage as well as extra protection preventing shocks from the bottom. And extra loops allow for clipping small accessories to the outside.

While this pack is great for many things, it isn’t a great hybrid running pack like the Arc’teryx Aerios or the Black Diamond Pursuit . And 20 L is a bit too big to comfortably run with, and it lacks the running-vest style of other daypacks that are made for more technical adventures. But as an all-arounder for the city to the trails, look no further than the Trailblazer .

Arc’teryx Aerios 18

• Material 100-denier CORDURA nylon; 210-denier CORDURA nylon with twisted 200-denier LCP grid
• Pockets Main compartment, one small front-access pocket, two side access zippered pockets, internal security pocket with key clip, breathable shoulder harness with 2 zippered pockets to accommodate soft flasks
• Suspension style Highly breathable AeroForm back panel with anti-barreling frame sheet
• Hydration-compatible No
• Ideal use Trail running and day hikes
• Weight 1 lb., 4 oz.

• Comfortable shoulder harness with zippered pockets and pouches
• Double set of stretchy chest cords to keep pack from moving too much
• High-quality materials
• No hydration sleeve
• Side pockets not the most secure

Looking for a pack that is more substantial than a running vest but won’t slow you down? Look no further than the Arc’teryx Aerios 18 ($180). Arc’teryx is a brand that is known for its high-end technical gear, and something it doesn’t do is skimp on quality.

Made with lightweight, CORDURA nylon fabric with a liquid crystal polymer ripstop grid ensures durability on the trail. And a main compartment, quick-access front pocket, two side pockets, one internal security pocket, and two attachment points for trekking poles make this a simple yet functional pack. 

The feature set that makes this a great hybrid running pack, however, has to be the shoulder straps. Seemingly inspired by running vests, the shoulder straps on the Aerios 18 are wide and stretchy with pockets for small water flasks as well as zippered pockets to fit your phone.

When packed correctly, these straps do a great job of keeping the bag hugged close to your body. In comparison, the Black Diamond Pursuit 15 is another run-ready pack but has a large, comfortable stretchy waistband — which could be the dealbreaker if you are deciding between the two. 

This pack does not have a sleeve inside for a hydration bladder, which may be a con for some. But our testers found that while running, they preferred to have some soft bottles in the vest pockets instead of a heavy bladder sloshing around on their back anyway.

The pack itself also weighs 1 pound, 4 ounces, and isn’t as light as a running vest, so you won’t want to stuff it too full or it might slow you down. But because of its useful features and great shoulder straps, this is an obvious choice for the hybrid runner and hiker.

Black Diamond Pursuit 15

• Material 100% recycled polyester
• Pockets 1 zippered and 3 stretch pockets on the shoulder straps; 1 large stretch-woven front pocket; 2 quick-access side pockets; 1 interior zippered pocket with key clip
• Suspension style Frameless foam back panel
• Ideal use Scrambling or summit pack
• Weight 1 lb., 8 oz.

• Comfortable suspension system with seamless wing construction that hugs your body
• Lots of pockets
• Easy access trekking pole storage
• No ice axe loop

The Black Diamond Pursuit 15 ($150) is a new model in Black Diamond’s lightweight mountain pack lineup. While the popular Distance 15 is lighter weight and built more for runners and mountaineers who are super weight-conscious, the Pursuit 15 is a bit heavier with more features making it a better choice for general lightweight mountain scrambling, summit tagging, and mountain trail running. 

The most welcome new design feature is the BD Continuous Fit Harness, which has a seamless wing construction for comfort on the move. These wings are wonderfully soft and stretchy, and also feature large, wraparound mesh pockets that are perfect for snacks or other items you might want to have easy access to. These wings keep the pack snug against your body as you move, making it comfortable as you go from hiking uphill to breaking into a run on the downhill.

A large, mesh front pocket is helpful for stashing a wind layer, sunscreen, and snacks, while a zip pocket on the front chest strap can fit a smaller phone, and additional mesh pouches are great for gels and bars or small hydration bladders. 

Something that sets it apart from the lighter Distance 15 is the lack of an ice axe loop on the front of the pack, as found on the Arc’teryx Aerios 18 , Deuter Speed Lite 25 , and Osprey Tempest Pro 18 to name a few. For a technical mountain pack, this is an important feature depending on the terrain you find yourself in, and is something to consider when purchasing the Pursuit 15 . Overall, this is a fantastic, comfortable pack for fast pursuits in the mountains.

Osprey Tempest Pro 20

• Material 210D Nanofly UHMWPE nylon + 420HD nylon packcloth
• Pockets Three external stretch, one external zippered, and two hipbelt
• Suspension style Injection-molded AirScape back panel
• Hydration-compatible Yes, up to 2 L
• Ideal use Hiking, biking,
• Weight 2 lbs., 1 oz.

• Feature-rich with a place or pocket for everything
• Highly adjustable Bio-Stretch harness and hip belt
• AirScape backpanel is above and beyond many other daypack frames
• On the pricier side at $200
• Hydration pouch won't accept full 3 L bladders in smaller pack sizes

The Tempest has occupied our Best Women’s Daypack slot for many seasons — and for good reason — but when Osprey rolled out the Tempest Pro ($200), it juiced up an already great pack into an excellent one. But makes the Tempest Pro, Pro ?

For one, it utilizes a very tech material: Osprey’s Nanofly fabric, which is a blend of UHMPWE and nylon that boasts a very high tear resistance and very low weight. Compared to the original Tempest, the new fabric feels slick and airy, and the overall pack has shed a handful of ounces.

Additionally, the frame (which was already class-leading for a daypack) is now even better. The new injection-molded AirScape backpanel looks like it belongs on Osprey’s larger packs. As our tester reported, “This pack feels like a full-sized backpacking pack, just shrunken down.” The Gregory Miko & Maya 20 Pack is another choice that also feels this way, and comes in a men’s and women’s version to boot.

Daypacks typically suffer from sweat issues due to simple frames (or sometimes no frame at all), but this pack isn’t among them. The BioStretch hip belt (seamless fabric) and wrapping harness add ample adjustability. There’s also an adjustable sternum strap to fit different size chests.

On top of the perks of a women’s fit, testers also really like this pack’s stretch mesh pocket on the shoulder strap and good-size hip belt pockets. Trekking pole and bike helmet attachment points (plus other loops and pockets for stashing a variety of gear), as well as an external hydration bladder compartment (works with a 2 L bladder), round out this pack and make it a fantastic do-it-all option.

You will pay for the feature-richness, as the Tempest Pro 20 L was among the most expensive daypacks in our testing. As of 2024, the Tempest Pro also comes in 30L and 40L versions.

Patagonia Refugio 26L Pack

• Material Recycled polyester
• Pockets 3+ main compartment
• Suspension style Frameless
• Ideal use Travel, commuting, school
• Weight 1 lb., 9.9 oz.

• Large capacity
• Removable laptop sleeve
• Made of recycled materials
• Could use a small external pocket for personal items
• Thin stretchy mesh water bottle holders prone to abrasion

The Patagonia Refugio 26L Pack ($109) is a great choice for commuters, travelers, and students alike. The large, 26L capacity is sure to fit plenty of your daily essentials. One of the largest packs in our lineup, it doesn’t feel like too much when loaded up, and its padded shoulder pads keep you comfortable on the go. 

A removable laptop sleeve is a definite perk of this moderately priced daypack. It can fit up to a 15” laptop, and has a mesh zippered pocket on the front for pens, flashdrives, or other accessories. It can even be used by itself if you find yourself carrying your laptop around by hand. If you want to swap the laptop for a water bladder, a hydration hanger is there and ready for your next hike. A big front pocket, water bottle holders, compression straps, and a bike light clipping point are other nice features of the Refugio. 

Unlike the Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Del Dia Pack , another commuter pack in our lineup, the Refugio 26L has more features and overall structure, making it a more comfortable carrying choice for all your necessities on your way to school or the office. The REI Co-op Trail 25 is more like the hiking version of this pack, while the Refugio 26L is made more for the urbanite, though it can definitely be used on dayhikes in the great outdoors as well. 

Our testers found themselves wishing there was a smaller pocket on the front of the bag, as our small items would get lost in the abyss of the large front pocket. We also noticed that the mesh water bottle holders are quite thin, thus being hot spots for abrasion over time. Overall, this is a quality pack backed by the sustainable practices of Patagonia, and great for school, work, and general daily life.

Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Del Dia Pack

• Material 100% repurposed ripstop nylon
• Pockets One external zippered
• Ideal use Travel, commuting
• Weight 10.6 oz.

• Sustainable
• Slender profile for commuting
• Fabric colors sometimes aren’t as advertised
• Requires careful packing

This simple and durable no-frills pack is one of our favorites factoring in comfort, price, and style. The Luzon 18 L pack ($60) is comfortable to wear when commuting by walking and biking, and it also works as a great travel pack with one main compartment (no loose pockets or sleeves). Cotopaxi makes the pack with a ripstop nylon shell fabric, a top-loading drawstring compartment, an adjustable sternum strap, and mesh shoulder straps.

On top of all the physical features, each Luzon pack is 100% unique, as they’re made from cuts of repurposed fabric. We like that the pack is on the more slender side but doesn’t get too chunky when carrying a variety of items, which makes it ideal for bopping around the city on the way to work.

The REI Co-op Flash 22 is another lightweight, simple pack that has a few more features, but doesn’t do as good of a job looking like it can fit in in the city, too as the Luzon 18L. If you’re looking for a daily driver with a bit more space, the Patagonia Refugio 26L would be our next choice.

In addition to this pack, Cotopaxi uses its scrap fabric to make other gear items (like its Teca Half-Zip windbreaker ). While using repurposed fabrics earns the Luzon top marks for sustainability, some purchasers online have noted that the fabric colors they received didn’t quite match what they expected.

Read Review: Cotopaxi ‘Luzon’ Custom Daypack

Gregory Miko & Maya 20 Pack

• Material 100-denier high-density nylon, 210-denier high-density nylon
• Pockets 6+ main compartment
• Ideal use Dayhikes
• Weight 2 lbs.

• Well-made suspension and comfortable hipbelt
• Made of high-quality recycled materials
• Adjustable torso length
• Can feel a tad overbuilt for its size
• Not waterproof

If you really like all the pockets and features that are typically found on larger packs, you might just love the Gregory Miko & Maya 20 Packs ($130). Coming in both a men’s and women’s version, Gregory delivers a daypack loaded with pockets and features in a small 20L package.

Made without any hard plastic or metal, this pack remains sturdy yet flexible. The Biosync suspension system and wide, flexible hipbelt make carrying loads over long distances comfortable, allowing the pack to stay close to and move with your body. A perforated back panel with a contoured shape keeps the pack breathable, and the torso length is also adjustable within a 3.5-inch range to allow you to really dial in your fit. 

While it doesn’t have the most pockets out of all the packs we reviewed — the Salomon Trailblazer 20 takes the cake there — it is very similar to the Osprey Talon 22 in weight and design. It sports seven total pockets: one main compartment, one large mesh front pocket, two zippered hipbelt pockets, a small zippered top pocket, two side mesh pockets, and a separate zippered entry for a hydration bladder. 

If you like to stay organized, this pack will help you do just that. But if you’re more of a minimalist who thinks having so many pockets and zippers is overwhelming for a simple dayhike, you might want to choose a pack that is a bit simpler. The zippers on the Miko & Maya 20 packs don’t have any waterproofing features, either, and while the molded zipper pulls and water-repellant DWR finish on the fabric are nice touches, the overall durability and water resistance may be lesser than some. 

If simplicity is more your thing, check out the Osprey Hikelite 18 Pack or Black Diamond Pursuit 15. But if you enjoy keeping your things separate and organized, and like the features of a larger backpack, you’ll go far with the comfortable and affordable Gregory Miko & Maya 20 Packs .

Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25

• Material 210 Robic nylon
• Ideal use Dayhikes, travel, commuting
• Weight 1 lb. 4.8 oz.

• Comfortable running vest-style harness
• Easy access to gear
• Frontal daisy chain and compression straps for external storage
• Hydration reservoir compatible
• Vest-style harness won’t be for everyone
• Mesh pockets only available on 25L version
• Narrow reservoir pocket

The Mystery Ranch Gallagator Pack ($90) is a unique pack in design and aesthetics. A three-zip system allows you to access the main compartment in a few different ways. Two large compression straps across the front help secure your load down, or allow you to carry extra accessories on the outside. And the tough Robic nylon makes this pack feel sturdy and durable. 

With the 3-zip system, you can unzip either side of the pack for easy access to the interior without having to fuss with a zipper all the way over the other side of the pack when grabbing something quickly while the bag is still on your shoulder. A vertical zipper that runs the length of the pack also allows you to open up the entire bag to access everything inside, which makes this a great choice for traveling and using as carry-on luggage. 

The large compression straps buckle securely across the front of the bag, and while can indeed be useful for lashing down the contents, or securing trekking poles or other long items, they are a bit of an eyesore from a design perspective. In addition, they add a lot more straps to this bag, which can feel like a bit much when considering the ones from the shoulder straps and removable waist belt as well. 

The spacious main compartment has a sleeve for a hydration bladder, and plenty of room for lunch and layers. We took this pack on a flight, and it fit perfectly into an overhead compartment and was comfortable on the long walk between gates at the Denver airport.

While many of the packs in our review don’t have padding in their shoulder straps, it would be a nice touch in this larger bag. A little padding goes a long way for all-day comfort, like on the REI Co-op Trail 25 and Osprey Tempest Pro 20 . But if you’re looking for a pack that is utilitarian, well-built, with a unique opening system, the Gallagator could be a good choice.

Matador Freerain22 Packable Daypack

• Material 50D ripstop nylon, with 100D Robic wear panels
• Pockets Two external stretch, One external zippered
• Ideal use Travel

• Great packability
• Waterproof fabric
• Rugged wear panels
• No foam back panel or frame in a larger volume pack
• Uncomfortable pack straps

“Packable” is in the name, and for good reason. We’ve taken the Freerain22 Daypack from Matador ($100) snowshoeing, running, hiking, to and from the office, and more. The waterproof exterior and roll-top closure are especially great if you get caught in rainy or snowy weather — all your layers and pack contents will stay dry.

It’s also great for travel or impromptu adventures. Packed down into its tiny pocket sleeve, you can stash this bag just about anywhere. Matador has achieved the near-impossible with this pack — offering storage for 22 L of gear while packing down to just 6 by 4 inches and weighing only 10.6 ounces, which ties with the Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Del Dia as the lightest pack in our review. The REI Co-op Flash 22 follows suit at 14 oz, and with a removable frame can also pack away although not into an included stuff sack like the Matador.

Recently updated, the Freerain22 now sports high-wear panels of durable Robic ripstop nylon, as well as a number of new attachment options and gear loops. These added features come at a price, adding weight over its predecessor and slightly dulling the pack’s first-class size-to-weight ratio. The packed size, however, continues to impress.

Several of our editors have used the Matador Freerain22 pack , and all had positive feedback. The only con we had was from our female tester: the shape of the wider mesh shoulder straps makes it harder to find the right fit across the chest compared to other packs. Due to this, the straps aren’t as comfortable. Still, its packability won us over.

Osprey Hikelite 26 Pack

• Material 100D/420D recycled nylon
• Pockets Two external stretch, one zippered
• Suspension style Alloy wire frame, breathable mesh back panel
• Ideal use Backpacking, travel
• Weight 1 lb., 11.8 oz.

• Breathable back panel and straps
• Plenty of color options
• Integrated rain cover
• Limited external attachment options

This pack is not only a popular and trusted option but also came close to taking the best overall designation. The Hikelite 26 Pack from Osprey ($115) has a foam back panel, a durable 100D/420D recycled nylon exterior, and a large main compartment that swallowed our kit during testing.

The Hikelite series of packs from Osprey builds on their popular Daylite packs (which we have given high marks to in the past) but bulks up the suspension system to create a daypack that carries any load with ease. A light alloy hoop frame works in tandem with the tensioned mesh back panel to create both a strong and ventilated support system.

The pack comes in a variety of colors and has thoughtful features like an emergency whistle built into the sternum buckle. It also has compression straps on the side to secure water bottles or extra gear when your pack is on the fuller side. And rounding out the thoughtful hiking-minded features: an integrated rain cover that deploys from a secret pocket below the pack body.

While this 18L pack is on the smaller side, it can pack in more than you think and is plenty big enough to carry an extra layer, water, and a first-aid kit — the minimal day hiking basics . The downside of a streamlined exterior is the paucity of a larger stuff pocket for things like a wet rain jacket, but for quick jaunts in the hills, you’ll likely forget the need.

The Osprey Tempest Pro 20 is a little smaller in size and has more of these features, but comes at a much higher price tag of $200. Or slightly larger at 20L, the Gregory Miko & Maya 20 Pack is a more featured alternative to the Hikelite.

Osprey’s classic go-to Hikelite has garnered an excellent reputation among our GearJunkie testers. If you’re looking for a pack with a few more storage options, the Hikelite also comes in 18L, 28L, and 32L capacities, with the latter two sizes including two separate torso lengths for a perfect fit.

Read Review: Osprey Hikelite 18L Daypack Review: Breezy Ventilation and Catch-All Versatility

Gregory Nano 22 Daypack

• Material 210-denier CryptoRip honeycomb nylon
• Pockets Large zip-access main compartment, quick-access zippered front pocket with key hook and organization sleeves, front mesh pocket and two mesh side pockets
• Suspension style Die-cut foam back panel
• Ideal use Around town, day hikes
• Weight 1 lb., 1.6 oz.

• Wide, comfortable shoulder straps
• Die-cut foam back panel for enhanced breathability
• Comes with a hydration bladder
• Hip strap is only a thin piece of webbing
• Too big to be a running pack

A comfortable and spacious daypack, the Gregory Nano 22 ($90) is another great all-arounder that has a lot of the same features as other packs in our review, but still is worth taking a closer look at. The most significant features in our testers’ minds that make this pack a good pick are its broad, comfortable shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel. 

Shoulder straps seem to come in all shapes and sizes in our daypack lineup, and these straps don’t skimp on support as some others seem to do. The die-cut foam back panel also takes an extra design step to ensure good airflow for sweaty activities, and makes this pack versatile for bike commuting around town or going on a brisk hike. 

The hip strap is a basic thin piece of webbing, which isn’t as impressive as some of the other padded waist belts seen in our lineup, and it is too bulky of a pack to go running with. While there aren’t enough features in this daypack to really make it a cut above the rest, it is a great, affordable, high-quality pack that can be used for a variety of occasions.

Osprey Talon 22

• Material 210D/420D recycled ripstop nylon
• Ideal use Multisport days

• Many attachment features
• Cushy suspension system
• On the heavier end

Osprey’s Talon 22 is pricey at $160, but its durability and lightweight might be worth it. This pack earned glowing reviews from our daypack testers, who raved about this pack’s nearly perfect fit and performance across a variety of terrain. Its volume is also on the upper end, with a capacity to store 22 L of gear.

We added this pack to the list because of its lightweight construction, an abundance of pockets (including the harness strap stash pocket), and Osprey’s excellent reputation. In our own testing, we found the hype to be real, highly valuing the fine-tuned suspension system and various attachment options. This does, however, mean the pack has put on a few ounces compared to other, more svelte models.

You should definitely consider this pack if you’re looking for something more sport-specific like biking or climbing — the pack has a helmet attachment point as well as a trekking pole and ice loop attachments. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Gregory Miko & Maya 20 Pack has many of the same features for $30 less.

There’s also a dizzying number of different volumes available in the Talon line , from a fast and ultralight 11L to a light, overnight-ready 44L version .

Daypack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Daypacks

Our GearJunkie testers are a multisport bunch who take every opportunity to sneak out for the types of brief adventures that daypacks shine in. And, we’ve put our heads together here to drum up the best daypacks on the market in 2024.

Nick Belcaster is a Washington-based trail hound who knows well the “get-it-while-you-can” aspect of adventuring in what is sometimes known as the Pacific Northwest. His exploits range from car-to-car alpine adventures in North Cascades National Park to ripping around on mountain bikes just outside of town, and in doing so he’s cultivated a taste for what makes a daypack the one . 

Our other chief daypack tester, Miya Tsudome, lives in the high desert of Bishop, Calif., at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. She spends the majority of her time in the summer climbing, backpacking, and going on day hikes, and knows what she is looking for in a daypack for navigating mountain terrain. 

Our gearheads have been testing daypacks since 2021, combing the field each year to find new great packs to add to our list. The 15 in this review reflect a variety of the best packs you can find today, covering different uses from casual hiking, technical peakbagging, commuting to work, or traveling abroad. The beauty of a daypack is in its absolute versatility, and we’ve used ours to tackle nearly everything.

For this list, we looked at daypacks across the spectrum — from packable and travel-friendly rucksacks to full-featured hiking and riding packs. We hiked miles in each pack, loading them up with the essentials, noting their frame style, comfort and adjustability, features, breathability, and waterproofing. Our review reflects weeks of careful study to bring you an honest look at the pros and cons of each daypack. Check out our buyer’s guide below for more details about how they measured up.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Daypack

Whether you’re choosing a pack to take you from work to the mountains or a daypack that can fill one specific use, let’s break down the best way to choose the right daypack for you.

Daypack User Profiles

The Casual Hiker: Those who hike on occasion, and are looking for a pack without too many bells and whistles but are serious about comfort, adjustability, and quality, will want to look for a pack with a few features: water bottle holders or hydration bladder compatibility, a waistbelt, and at least a small organizational front pocket. 

The Gregory Miko & Maya 20 Pack , Osprey Hikelite 26 Pack , and Osprey Talon 22 are all good choices for this category, and have more of a sporty, technical look to them that says “I’m a hiker.” If you’re looking for something that is a little more hybrid in style and can go from trail to town, the REI Co-op Trail 25 and Salomon Trailblazer 20 are great picks.

The Peakbagger : Some day hikers go on a 3-mile jaunt on maintained trails, while other folks’ idea of a day hike is running out into the mountains or doing long, technical trail runs before dawn. If this is your thing, you’re going to want a pack that can move with your body. Look for a daypack in the 15-18L range, with a running-vest-inspired shoulder harness to hold water flasks and goos, that is lightweight and has some waterproofing treatment to withstand the elements. 

The Black Diamond Pursuit 15 and Arc’teryx Aerios 18 are great choices for the extreme hiker. Each pack weighs in at a light 1 lb. 8 oz., has comfortable and snug running vest shoulder straps, and is made with durable materials to withstand abrasion and raindrops alike. As a bonus, the Pursuit 15 comes with a wide, flexible waistband that won’t slow you down. 

The Daily Commuter : The commuter, whether to school or to work, by bike or by train, will also want to look for some specific elements in their next daypack. A good capacity of around 20-25 L, comfortable shoulder straps for long commutes, dedicated laptop sleeves, and water bottle holders are things to consider. 

The REI Co-op Trail 25 and Patagonia Refugio 26L are both great choices for fitting a laptop, lunch, layers, water, and small accessories. For even lighter and simpler bags for gym-goers or errand-runners, be sure to consider the REI Co-op Flash 22, Matador Freerain22 Packable Daypack, and the Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Del Dia Pack. 

The World Traveler : An extension of the commuter and casual hiker category, the traveler’s needs can be wide-ranging. Of course, you’ll want to find a bag that is compliant with the carry-on size regulations of most major commercial airlines, and all packs under 40 L typically are anyway.

Some travelers will want something supportive and comfortable for walking miles exploring new sights, and others will just want a carry-on that they can dump at the hotel. Either way, a bag with interior pockets for keeping personal items secure, a comfortable suspension system, and water bottle holders will be good to look out for. Choosing a pack from the casual hiker or daily commuter categories will suit the traveler just fine.

One of the most important items on the trail is your pack — it’s how you’ll carry all your gear and support yourself on the trail. For this review, we included daypacks from 15 to 30 L, but that’s a huge range.

Consider what gear you’ll want to carry: the basics like water, a first-aid kit, wind/rain layer, snacks, glasses, and a cellphone. You might also carry extras like your kids’ layers, a doggie bowl, sun hat or sunscreen, camera, trekking poles, and water reservoir.

You’ll only have space for the essential items with an 11-18L pack, but these are usually a little more versatile for daily use. This is a good size if you’re commuting or going on a shorter hike or bike ride, which the Cotopaxi Luzon 18L is a good choice for. 

Meanwhile, a daypack of around 20-30 L, like the Deuter Speed Lite 25 , allows you to bring more water for longer trips in hotter environments or extra food and heavier layers if it’s spring or fall. Packs of this size are also better for quick overnights and multi-activity trips like hiking and climbing or short-term travel.

Larger packs can also be a good choice if you’re traveling in alpine terrain and need more space or features— like headlamp pockets, trekking pole sleeves, ice axe loops, a hip belt, and a helmet compartment or exterior stretch pocket. Although some technical mountain packs like the Black Diamond Pursuit 15 keep it light and small at only 15 L, but with many of the features you look for in a technical mountain pack so you can stay nimble.

Apart from the volume, or carrying capacity, of a pack, there’s also pack sizing for your body. Daypacks are usually one size, as they’re meant to be adjustable and versatile yet streamlined. We had multiple testers of different body types try on these daypacks for comparison.

Any good daypack will have adjustable straps that help with fit. And even though they are daypacks, many have sternum straps or hip belts as well.

If a pack does come in multiple sizes (usually S/M or M/L size ranges or plus or tall sizes), make sure to check the brand’s size chart. Measure your torso or back length and find a pack that will fit your size and height. Things to look for: packs with sternum straps or a removable hip strap.

Frame Styles and Straps

Because the loads they carry are often lighter, daypacks don’t benefit greatly from the complicated frames of larger backpacking packs. More often, foam sheets are employed to provide some rigidity to the back panel and better distribute the weight.

Packs like the Gregory Miko & Maya and the Osprey Talon 22 or Tempest Pro offer the greatest amount of support while remaining frameless. Some packs will also make their foam frame sheets removable, offering a cushioned seat on the go like with the REI Co-op Flash 22.

A frameless pack will have an upper comfortable limit when it comes to weight, and will need to be packed with care to avoid being poked in the back with your kit. We try to stay below 15 pounds maximum when saddling up a daypack for an extended jaunt.

The addition of a minimal frame can greatly increase the carrying capacity of a daypack, such as the tensioned Derlin U frame of the Deuter Speed Lite 25, but when you’re hauling the lightweight loads associated with day trips, it often isn’t a necessity.

Shoulder straps also play an important role in providing support for a day on the trail. These are typically available in three flavors: J-style straps are the original, S-style straps accommodate those with large chests, and running-vest style straps are preferred for light loads and active movement. Look for shoulder straps that provide a good amount of cushioning foam and fit your torso appropriately.

Typically a requirement on backpacking packs, hip belts on daypacks can afford to be less supportive due to the lighter loads they carry. The most minimal style features simple webbing belts, and can even be removable, like on the Arc’teryx Aerios 18 .

More supportive hip belts incorporate spacer mesh and foam to disperse the weight across the hips. If you’re looking to tack on the miles or just want a more cushioned ride, springing for a full-featured hip belt is well worth it, and you won’t be disappointed by the uber-comfortable one on the Black Diamond Pursuit 15 .

Daypacks don’t often see the abuses of larger bags, and are commonly constructed of lighter fabrics to minimize weight and cut down on bulk. All of the daypacks on our list are tried and tested, and they’ll work for most outdoor activities.

That being said, if you want a pack to put through the paces year after year, consider one with a higher-denier material (like tight-weaved polyamide, polyester, or ripstop nylon). Deniers from 100 to 200 are a great sign a pack will be durable in the long run. The Arc’teryx Aerios 18 does not skimp on quality, and is an example of a pack made with 100-, 200-, and 210-denier materials. The REI Co-op Trail 25 is also made with recycled materials which is a nice feature to look out for as well.

The material of the back panel in particular can be the difference between smooth sailing and a sweaty back. Daypacks that use spacer mesh and die-cut foam patterns in their back panels will breathe much better than their flat-back counterparts.

Back Panels

Most daypacks will rely on some type of foam and mesh to provide cushioning on your back, as well as promote airflow and breathability. In the pursuit of cutting ounces, daypacks on the ultralight side of the spectrum may exclude this altogether, meaning that perspiration can’t escape as easily.

The upside to this is that these packs compress down impressively, meaning they disappear into luggage or a larger pack.

Because daypacks often lack the bones of a frame to support weight, cushioned back panel design helps to shore up the structure and provides additional support, while keeping the weight close to your back.

A spacer mesh or segmented back panel will keep air moving and hopefully your shirt dry. We were impressed by the ventilation provided by the Deuter Speed Lite 25 , as well as the Osprey Talon 22 and Tempest Pro daypacks.

Features, Pockets, and Closures

What features does the pack offer? Look for how many pockets the pack has or if it has internal pockets or compartments. These features are great to have when it comes to organizing your gear. Is there an exterior pocket? Are there side pockets?

Things to look for: Our first thought when we examine a new pack in testing is to look for where we’ll store our water source, whether that’s a reservoir or bottle. Also, check to make sure the pack’s internal sleeve will fit your reservoir (which can run anywhere between 0.75 and 3 L).

The second thing we check is the back panel. Almost all the packs that made it on our list have ventilated mesh or breathable back panels — this is a really great feature for almost all adventures.

The closure style of a day pack can have a big impact on how quickly accessible it is. Main compartments that open with a drawstring are a snap to pop open and closed, but aren’t the most secure or waterproof.

Roll-tops, like the Matador Freerain22 Packable Daypack , offer the best protection from the elements, but can be slow to unravel on opening. Zippered closures are seen on the more feature-rich daypacks, and can even be watertight, but will need to be cared for more, as grit and sand can damage their sliders and cause them to split if neglected.

Sport-specific features, like a bike helmet lashing system or an ice axe loop, will often dictate the best usage style for your daypack. It’s often worth considering what you’ll be using your daypack for the most and purchasing a dedicated pack, or one that is feature-rich and can be used for many different outings.

Some packs will have attachments for trekking poles on the outside, like on the REI Co-op Trail 25 or the Arc’teryx Aerios 18 , which frees up valuable side pocket space. Some of the more technical packs like the Aerios, Black Diamond Pursuit 15, and Mystery Ranch Gallagator also have pouches on the front of their shoulder straps for water flasks or quick access to your phone or some snacks. 

Hydration Compatibility

Keeping your water accessible is the best way to ensure your thirst is quenched, and H2O systems like the Platypus BigZip EVO or Osprey Hydraulics Reservoirs make an excellent pairing with a daypack for extended trips. Many daypacks provide hydration compatibility, though not all, so choose based on your expected usage.

Hydration-oriented packs will have separate compartments for bladders, sometimes with insulated sleeves or hooks for securing a bladder, and routing for a hydration tube. Some packs, like Gregory’s H20 Series , have magnetic or quick clip attachments for easy sippin’ on the go. Hydration tube ports allow for drinking tubes to exit the interior of the pack.

You’ll want to check the sizing of your daypack with the size of your bladder. For example, a large 3L bladder might not fit in a 16L pack. See what the brand recommends and check the sizing.

It’s also worth mentioning that water can be one of the heaviest things you carry in a daypack, and choosing a pack with a more robust suspension system to accommodate it will keep your back happy. A pack without a frame like the Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia Pack isn’t likely to haul a full 3 L of water nearly as well as one with a more robustly supportive frame. The Arc’teryx Aerios 18 is a pretty technical pack but lacks a hydration sleeve which is also something to keep in mind.

Waterproofness

Do you live in a climate where there’s lots of rain? Are you looking for a daypack that’s more durable and can stand up to travel and use in different places? Check the waterproofing on the pack.

Look for a DWR coating, polyamide, or PU abrasion resistance coating (these packs will be more durable), taped seams, roll-top closures, and waterproof or sealed zippers. Daypacks that incorporate a number of these features, like the Matador Freerain22 Packable Daypack , will have a high level of waterproofness and keep afternoon storms at bay.

You can also employ a pack cover or liner to keep items like an insulated jacket or electronics dry for when you need them most. Some packs, like the Osprey Hikelite 26 , even come with integrated pack covers that deploy from a hidden pocket.

Don’t forget to check the quality of the zippers and zipper pulls as well as the overall construction of the pack. Also, check the material on the pack bottom for durability.

Women’s-Specific Daypacks

Women are built differently than men. Women’s packs tend to have a shorter torso length, narrower shoulder-width straps, and different hip measurements to reflect that. For some, having a women’s pack makes all the difference.

Unfortunately, many smaller volume daypacks are often only available in one unisex size, which means you’ll get less of a customized fit. Larger volume daypacks tend to see increased loads, and some on the market will be offered in a Small/Medium, Medium/Large sizing, or include a women’s-specific model.

Be sure to check to see if a brand offers a pack series in men’s/women’s-specific, and see which measurements or size offerings will best fit you. The pack we zeroed in on as the best women’s-specific was the Osprey Women’s Tempest Pro . Black Diamond also makes a women’s and men’s specific version of the Black Diamond Pursuit 15 with different fits and colorways.

Price and Value

Daypacks run the gamut in terms of cost, from budget-minded sacks to high-end bags for in-a-day adventures. The best bang-for-your-buck daypack we’ve encountered has been the REI Co-op Flash 22 .

A good rule to follow is the broader your horizons, the more you’re likely to spend. Additional features add up quickly, and the daypack that can do it all certainly comes with a price tag. More budget-minded options will also likely have a limited lifespan, so treat them with care.

For less than $100, you can purchase a daypack like the REI Co-op Trail 25 , Flash 22, Salomon Trailblazer 20, Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Del Dia Pack, Mystery Ranch Gallagator, and the Osprey Hikelite 26 Pack. These daypacks encompass a wide variety of styles, from the more pared-down Flash 22 and Luzon 18L, to the substantial Trail 25 and Gallagator. These budget packs will satisfy the needs of many casual hikes and commuters without breaking the bank. 

The $100-$150 range will buy you some more technical packs, made with slightly higher-quality materials and have more specific features. In our review, this encompasses the Deuter Speed Lite 25 , Arc’teryx Aerios 18, Patagonia Refugio, Gregory Miko & Maya, and Matador Freerain22. These packs are more specific in their utility, such as the technical Arc’teryx Aerios, or come with extra features like a laptop sleeve or rain cover.

And for $150-$200, you can buy daypacks that are made with high-quality materials, have the features and qualities found in larger backpacks but in a smaller package, or are even more technical for extreme outdoor pursuits. It is uncommon for daypacks to cost this much, but the Black Diamond Pursuit 15 , Osprey Tempest Pro 20, and Talon 22 all fall into this category. All of these packs are made with burly materials such as high-denier ripstop nylon, and have a high attention to detail with features such as waterproof zippers, contoured harnesses, or highly breathable back panels.

The best daypack is hard to define because the sizing will vary based on your needs. Some days, we’ll reach for our trusty 22L REI Flash . On other days, we might need a 24-30L pack depending on the activity.

That being said, the Deuter Speed Lites , REI Co-op Trail 25 , and Black Diamond Pursuit 15 packs were some top staff favorites.

Simply, size. A daypack is meant to comfortably carry all of the essentials you might need on a daily outing and are typically between 12 and 30 L. A backpacking pack will have additional space to accommodate all of the equipment needed for an overnight trip or a more technical outing like rock climbing.

As we mentioned in the intro, you’ll want a 15-30L day pack for hiking. Any larger, and it will be a heavier load to carry; any smaller, and you won’t have room for the 10 essentials. Based on experience and what’s on the market, 20-24L packs tend to be the most popular choice.

Great question — we’ve got an article on this exact topic, with a handy, comprehensive list you can even print out!

But you can expect to always start with the basics: extra layers or a rain layer (depending on the season), water, food, a small first-aid kit, and sun protection.

For the daypack itself, look for durable — maybe even water-resistant — fabric, a breathable back panel, straps or loops for securing gear, and a good mix of internal and external pockets.

Other features that are great to have on a daypack are a hip belt, sternum strap, key clip, hydration sleeve, and attachment points for trekking poles.

Now that you have all the tools you need to choose the right pack, get out there and enjoy the outdoors!

The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

Head into the backcountry with the best backpacking backpacks of 2024. From budget-friendly options to ultra-comfortable picks, we’ve got you covered.

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

We found the best travel backpacks of 2024, including top picks from Peak Design, Osprey, Patagonia, and more.

Mary Murphy is the Managing Editor of GearJunkie. She has been writing about hiking, running, climbing, camping, skiing, and more for seven years, and has been on staff at GearJunkie since 2019. Prior to that, Mary wrote for 5280 Magazine in Denver while working as an outdoor instructor teaching climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and mountain biking. Based in Denver, Colorado, Murphy is an avid hiker, runner, backpacker, skier, yogi, and pack-paddleboarder. Mary also serves as the leader of AllGear Digital’s DEI Committee.

Originally from New York, Miya graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English from Skidmore College and quickly fled west to see what the great outdoors had to offer. What was supposed to be a summer job in Yosemite National Park turned into five years, with her ultimately becoming a rock climbing guide with the Yosemite Mountaineering School. She now works as a photographer and freelance writer and is always looking for ways to share her passion and expertise for outdoor gear through her writing.

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Home » Gear » Best Backpacks for Hiking

The 12 Best Hiking Backpacks: The COMPLETE Roundup for 2024

Whether you are heading to the mountains for a quick hike or for weeks at a time, you need to make sure you have the right gear.

I’ve been hiking for nearly ten years and have tried out over a dozen awesome hiking packs… This is why I wrote this article on the best backpacks for hiking and adventuring to help you find your soul-pack.

Trekking is one of my favorite past-times when travelling. To me, getting out of the city and into the woods or mountains is crucial. It helps reset my batteries and feel connected to nature. Plus, it’s free! As a broke backpacker, I spend a lot of my time camping out and hiking in the mountains.

I have a sneaking suspicion you feel the same way   🙂

But unfortunately, choosing the best backpack for hiking isn’t easy…

The internet is flooded with outdoor brands, all of which claim to make the ‘best’ hiking packs. And some of the options on the market are rubbish. 

As a ten-year world traveler and experienced hiker, I’ve personally tried every one of the hiking backpacks in this post on different hikes and expeditions.

In this article, I assess the best hiking packs for  you . I lay out my top picks for my favorite hiking backpacks, and I’ll introduce you to my favourite outdoor gear company.

With the help of this article, you’ll know exactly what to look for when picking out the best backpack for your hiking adventures…

These are my top hiking backpack recommendations. Let’s dive in.

Quick Answer: What Are The Best Hiking Packs?

Buying guide: how to choose the right hiking backpack, rounding up the best backpacks for hiking, more great hiking backpacks, how we tested to find the best hiking backpacks, faq about the best backpacks for hiking, conclusion: so, what is the best hiking backpack.

In the market for one of the best backpacking packs of 2024? Here are our top recommendations:

• Osprey Airscape UNLTD – Best Overall Hiking Backpack
• Osprey Aether / Ariel – Best Hiking Backpack For Long Trips
• Osprey Exos 58 – Best Ultralight Hiking Backpack
• Deuter Speed Lite 21 – Best Small Hiking Backpack

Kodiak Kobuk – Best Leather Hiking Backpack

• The Adventure Pack – Freshest Daypack For Hiking
• Deuter Air Contact – Best Backpack for Backpacking Long-Term
• WANDRD PRVKE 31 – Best Hiking Backpack For Photographers
• Nomatic Travel Backpack – Best Hiking Backpack for Travelers on Brief Trips

Osprey Airscape UNLTD

> $$$$$ > Uses ground breaking 3d tech > Comfortable and versatile

Osprey Aether/Ariel

> $$ > Weather-resistant materials > Plenty of storage

Osprey Exos 58

> $$ > Ultra light material > Minimalist

KODIAK KOBUK

> $$ > Lovely quality leather > Stylish and versatile

STUBBLE & CO ADVENTURE PACK

> $$ > Lightweight and ergonomic > Mad from recycled plastic

Deuter Air Contact

> $$ > Super comfortable > Comes with a detachable rain cover

REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack – Men’s

> $ > Plenty of pockets for storage > Built-in rain cover

Deuter Speed Lite 21

> $ > Four exterior pockets > Comfortable padded back

Nomatic Travel Bag

> $$$ > Very light and very efficient > Tough and comfortable

You may be wondering how exactly it is we compare backpacks. How can you identify which backpack is best for you and how exactly do you choose the right backpack for your hiking trip? Well, in our view the most important factor when choosing a hiking backpack is to pick something that is comfortable.

If you are carrying a heavy load in your pack you will definitely 100% need a hip belt so that you can take the majority of the weight onto your hips rather than having it hanging off your shoulders and straining your back.

I’ve carried 20kg over eighteen days for hundreds of kilometers relatively comfortably as I had picked a backpacking backpack with a really well-designed, well-padded, back and hip belt. In my opinion, the most comfortable hiking pack is going to have a ventilated back, a thick and comfortable hip belt, and the ability to adjust in several places.

Next…

You get what you pay for

I’ll level with you right now – the more you spend, the better a hiking backpack you will get.

Quality hiking backpacks are not cheap and whilst there are some good value options on the market, it’s best to think of this purchase as an investment. I recommend spending a bit more so that you can buy a hiking backpack with a lifetime guarantee – that way you can be sure it will last forever!

In my opinion, it’s worth spending the extra money and choosing an Osprey hiking pack as that way your backpack will be covered by Osprey’s almighty guarantee – meaning they will repair or replace it, no matter what happens. However, note that there are some exceptions to the All-Mighty Guarantee. They will not fix airline damage, accidental damage, hard use, wear & tear, or damp-related damage. Still, it’s a lot better than most guarantees on the market.

Go for something lightweight

You want your backpack to be as lightweight as possible whilst still being incredibly tough and durable. I once had an ultralight backpacking pack but it broke pretty quickly as it just couldn’t stand the wear and tear of being thrown around.

The best backpacking backpacks are lightweight anyway so this isn’t such a big concern. If this is a big concern for you, choose a daypack for hiking instead.

You want a tough backpack for backpacking

You want to choose a rough and tough pack that can take a beating and still come out smiling. These days, most backpacks are tough but you want to find something that is also water-resistant to keep your stuff from getting soaked during sudden downpours.

No matter how tough your pack is it will eventually get damaged if you use it constantly – I live out of my backpack – so again, try to pick a hiking backpack with a lifetime warranty.

Check out our list of awesome water-proof backpacks.

Internal frame backpacks are best

I always recommend going for a backpack with an internal frame. The best backpacks for hiking have rods that support them built into the bag instead of outside of it, which makes it super practical and easy to carry.

External frames make your bag heavier and, believe me when you are hiking in the wild, the last thing you want is a bulky, complicated backpacking backpack to slow you down. Pack light and you won’t need a big frame!

Volume is key

Contrary to popular belief: go small or go home. It doesn’t matter if you think you are a light packer, if you carry around a big backpack, chances are it is going to be filled eventually with tons of stuff you don’t actually need.

Choosing a more minimalist backpack will help you to economize space and keep your luggage light.

Material can make or break…

If you are into hiking, you should know that, eventually, you will need to face the elements. Rain, heat, or even snow, everything can happen when you are out there in the wilderness.

Therefore, choosing the right material is crucial when you are planning to buy one of the best backpacks for hiking.

Light and resistant materials like Dyneema are ideal, especially because this fabric is water-resistant. It can be more pricey than other fabrics like nylon, but it is worth the investment, I promise!

The sexy-factor!

If you are already putting some money into one of the best backpacks for hiking out there, at least you want to make you that it looks good on you. There are plenty of options regarding color and style, so choose one that makes you feel sexy… Well, as sexy as you can feel in the middle of a muddy jungle! Let’s be honest, the best hiking bag looks good whilst performing too!

#1 Osprey Airscape UNLTD – Best Overall Hiking Backpack

Price: $700

The Osprey Airscape is one of two spanking hiking packs launched by the world’s leading backpack brands as part of its UNLTD series. It has risen to become one of the best backpacks for hiking that the world has yet seen from one of the best hiking backpack brands that the world will ever know.

The Airscape UNLTD is a 68-liter hiking and travel backpack that utilizes cutting-edge, 3D printing technology to create an ultra-comfy, supportive, and breathable lumbar, back support.

Whilst there are too many little features to list in this section (read on for the full run down), another major bonus is the 8l top lid that converts to an 18l day pack which brings a whole new dimension to the pack. 

Alas, the Osprey Airscape UNLTD also comes with a hefty $700 price tag which by far makes it the most expensive backpack that I have ever come across. Whether it is really worth that amount of money is of course debatable but what we can say is that this is by far the most comfortable hiking backpack that we have ever tried – it feels absolutely amazing.

I absolutely bloody loved how comfortable this pack feels and part of that was just how adjustable almost every section is. With all the different straps and clips I could easily make this pack fit my body shape with ease. Another feature I loved was how the pack sat on my back once properly adjusted. Basically this meant even more comfort as the weight was now evenly distributed across your body rather than on your shoulders alone.

I s the Osprey Airscape UNLTD for you?

This is a highly innovative and unique backpack that excels when used for hiking and trekking. The only downside is the hefty price tag which will deter a lot of would-be users and there are other packs on this list that are a third of the price. But, if you are in the market for a high-end piece of gear then this may well be the pack for you and it’s why we’ve rated it as the best backpack for hiking. Me and my girlfriend both used these packs and both agreed they were the best feeling packs we ever tried.

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

#2 Osprey Aether / Ariel – Best Hiking Backpack For Big Trips

“Compact and easy to carry”

Price: $300

We swear by Osprey backpacks. They simply make the best backpacks around – period. They consistently put out some of the best bags on the market, and the Aether (for men) and the Ariel (for the ladies) are two of Osprey’s flagship backpacking backpacks. Both myself and TBB founder Will use this pack when go backpacking and several of our team members have also used this model in the past.

The Aether/Ariel has all the advantages of every Osprey pack (all-mighty guarantee, durability, comfort), which makes it a fantastic pack and it’s just another reason we’ve rated them/it as the best hiking backpack for longer trips.

This is a full-sized backpacking/trekking pack and is NOT suitable for short hikes or overnight trips. Only plump for this pack if you are going on a proper hiking trip and need to bring camping gear.

For men – the Aether 85 pack is better if you prefer to carry some extra gear on your trekking trips, but 95% of the time I could easily get away with the space in the Aether 70l backpack on my hikes.

If you prefer something a bit smaller, check out the Osprey Talon 33 , or for the ladies, check out the Osprey Sirrus 36.

But there’s more…

Additionally, the Aether and Ariel have plenty of pockets and compartments to keep things extra organized and an AirScape ventilated back panel to keep you cool on the warmest adventures.

If you are going to be camping out and need to carry a tent and a lot of gear, you will need a decent camping backpack and the Osprey Aether will not disappoint. It has a sleeping bag compartment (which I personally use for shoe), and a generous top lid. You can fit a lot of gear into this baby, and attach even more to the outside and still come out smiling as the Osprey Aether is one of the most comfortable big backpacks on the market.

We just love how light and comfortable this pack felt for the sheer amount of gear that it can fit inside. The padded shoulders, thick hip belt, and adjustable fit it was perfect for several members of our team without much extra effort.

• Check out our in-depth review of the Aether here. 
• Check out our in-depth review of the Ariel here.

Is the Osprey Aether/Ariel for you?

Osprey has been my go-to for years, and for good reason. Their durability and design make their bags perfect for hiking or traveling, and most importantly they are super comfortable. The Osprey Aether is my highest recommendation. Be careful on Amazon, a lot of the Aether’s are overpriced. The links below are the latest price on Aether bags for 2024.

#3 Osprey Exos 58 – Best Ultralight Hiking Backpack

“Ultralight backpack with excellent comfort and carrying capacity “

Price: $260

If you are in the market for an ultralight, versatile, no-bullshit backpack for backpacking or your next hiking trip or long-term travel adventure, look no further than the Osprey Exos 58 – one of the best Osprey backpacks around!

This is technically a minimalist backpack, weighing in at just 2.7 pounds. However, I would say it is on the larger side of the spectrum for the category. It does not have all of the bells and whistles nor the weight of a hiking pack that weighs 2 or 3 times its size.

We love the light wire alloy frame that offers great support even when carrying loads up to 40 pounds. The AirSpeed 3-D tensioned mesh back panel also kept our back cool and sweat free – there are a solid 5 inches of air space between where your back sits and the frame of the backpack! Say goodbye to the swamp-back blues!

On the side of the backpack, you have dual access stretch mesh side pockets for storing water bottles and other backpacking gear with compression straps. At the bottom area of the Exos 58, you can attach your sleeping pad or tent using more compression straps. These straps are removable in case you are really counting ounces.

And, of course, the backpack comes with the Osprey lifetime guarantee, which is part of the reason my love of Osprey backpacks is so strong!

For a bag that will fit two weeks’ worth of clothes, equipment, and supplies, check out the Osprey Volt 60 – just as light but definitely more spacious, it’s another great hiking option. To find out even more about this awesome pack, check out our in-depth backpack  review of the Osprey Exos 58 .

Is the Osprey Exos 58 for you?

A bit smaller and with fewer features than the Aether 70, the Exos 58 is the perfect backpack for someone who likes to hike quick and light. Also, you just can’t beat that lifetime guarantee!  The button below has a link to the latest price on REI. 

A similar bag you might want to check out is the Near Zero Dean Backpack at 50l, it’s a great hiking pack.

Price: $279

The Kobuk is a versatile and stylish back that is equally at home on the street or out in the woods. It’s fully loaded with convenient features and high-quality workmanship making it a worthy choice to take camping or hiking. 

The roll-top opening allows you to utilize extra liters of storage capacity or buckle it down for a compact traveling companion. It has plenty of capacity for all your hiking gear, a hip belt to help spread the weight and the robust leather is waterproof enough to withstand a good rain shower. All in all, it certainly has the durability and storage capacity to work on your next camping trip. 

When it’s time to get to work, the laptop and phone pockets make commutes easier and prove that one bag really can get you through the week and the weekends, and there are even two water bottle pockets.

Is the Kodiak Kobuk for you?

Whilst leather is not obvious to use as a hiking pack, this one is certainly the best hiking bag made from leather that we have tried. It does the job admirably and has the advantage of being versatile enough to take to work, traveling, the gym, or on a hike.

We loved how stylish and elegant this bag looks, whilst still being super functional in day-to-day use. We also love that although the pack wasn’t just for hiking, but it felt super versatile and could be used anywhere from the trails to commuting to and from the office.

#4 Stubble & Co Adventure Pack – Freshest New Hiking Pack

Price: $239

Now let us introduce this innovative, super uber cool, brand new to-the-market hiking daypack from the good people at Stubble & Co. We love this pack because it’s tough, durable, and also highly functional. It is designed to be a go-anywhere, do-anything bag that is equally adept when out hiking in the woods, hitting the gym, or undertaking the daily hell that is the wretched commute to work! .

The Adventure Bag is built to last but is also made from recycled plastic giving up some much welcome eco cred. It’s lightweight and compact and can be used as a carry-on for flights. It boasts a 16′ laptop compartment, a shoe compartment, a bottle pocket, an on-the-go card pocket, compression straps and nice to the touch grab handles. For hikes, there is a waist strap and other adjustable sternum straps to make it nice and comfy plus a soft padded back panel.

All in all, it’s 42 liters of adventure-ready baggy goodness. For this reason I use it for carry-on trips and weekend breaks rather than for hiking but it feels like it would work very well on a hike. Our writer Nic agreed too agreed too -she felt the 42l of storage was a good mid-ground allowing her to pack all gear for her trip without overpacking or carting too much weight. We both also loved the hidden passport pocket too which made it ideal for backpacking as well as hiking.

#5 Deuter Air Contact – Best Backpack for Backpacking Long-Term

Price: $250

Ok, so this is not a super light backpack, however, it made it to the list because it is super comfortable (maybe even one of the most comfortable hiking packs in existence) and well-built for longer hikes.

The shoulder straps and waist belt feel supportive but soft making them perfect for carrying heavy loads. The ventilation system kept us cool and fresh in a variety of different weather types. All in this is one of the best multi-day backpacks we laid hands on yet.

The Deuter Air comes with a detachable rain cover that will keep all your belongings dry and dual-zippered cargo pockets that are super resistant.

I recommend this pack for long trekking trips or for people who like to carry a lot of stuff but don’t want to splash out on the Osprey Aether. The Deuter Air offers great value for your money and is the best budget backpack in this size category, plus it’s tough as nails and can take a beating on any adventure.

Is the Deuter Air Contact for you?

If you are a dedicated camper, who loves epic hiking – meet your soul match. While it is a bit on the heavy side, Deuter’s durability and comfort can’t be matched and will pay for itself many times over.

Our team mirrored those feelings and for them, one of their main points of feedback was just how tough and durable this pack felt. The quality of the sewing, the thickness of the material, and the general workmanship that went into it were well worth the extra weight.

If you want to learn more about this bag , be sure to read our review of the Dueter Air Contact.

#6 REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack – Men’s – Best Budget Hiking Backpack

“The go-to backpack for short hikes”

Price: $139

I’ve been using my REI Traverse for a while now as my go-to ultralight backpack for day hikes.

It’s one hell of a pack and is the best budget hiking backpack I’ve come across. It’s pretty cheap considering the quality and it has plenty of pockets for storage, a padded hip belt, a supportive yet breathable back panel, and a built-in rain cover.

It’s the best 35L backpack around and is good for day hikes or ultralight hiking weekends rather than long trekking expeditions where you have to carry tents and food. It’s hands down one of the best backpacks for hiking at the weekend…

Need a bit more space? Have a look at the larger Rei Flash 55 Backpack .

Is the REI Co-op Traverse for you?

Are you looking for a light bag for quick weekend hikes? The Traverse might be your soul bag. Not good for epic camping trips, the quality of REI products has made them one of my go-to’s for years for both traveling and hiking. And, the price is nice and lean!

#7 Deuter Speed Lite 21 – Best Small Hiking Backpack

“Perfect for adventure racing, sports climbing, or trekking tours”

If you are heading into the hills for a simple day hike then you can probably get away with a small hiking backpack and the Deuter Speed Lite is that pack – the best backpacking pack for hiking over short distances.

Designed with endurance athletes in mind, this is a great ultralight backpack, weighing just over 1lbs and is one of the best value small hiking backpacks on the market.

The Deuter Speed Lite 21L hiking pack boasts four exterior pockets so there’s plenty of storage as well as a detachable hip belt and a comfortable padded back with an air-escape feature meaning air can get between you are the back of your pack – this will keep you cool and stop you getting sweaty.

This is the best value backpack in this size.

Is the Deuter Speed Lite for you?

Our team loved the smaller size of this pack and felt it was the ideal accompaniment for those wanting a minimalist hiking experience. The lightweight pack however didn’t skimp on comfort and instead produced a pack that the team felt really made their adventures super enjoyable and most importantly didn’t get in the way of their trek.

Not ideal for camping or longer hikes, if you are looking for a well-priced super light backpack for hiking, it’s hard to beat the Deuter Speed Lite.

#8 Nomatic Travel Bag – Best Carry-on For Hiking

Price: $340

Looking for a backpack for your upcoming vacation and planning on doing a little hiking along the way? Don’t want to lug around a 60 or 70-liter dedicated-hiking backpack while you’re at it?

We understand that not everyone wants to carry a cumbersome hiking backpack on their trip abroad; at the same time, we get that people don’t want to be limited to overly-specialized packs.

Luckily the Nomatic Travel Backpack is a superlatively well-rounded backpack that can handle all kinds of different scenarios. Many people remark that the Nomatic is the very best travel backpack around and we tend to agree with this statement.

The Nomatic Backpack is great because it is very light and very efficient. It uses every little bit of space possible and gets massive points for its organizational qualities. Seriously, this backpack gets pretty creative in terms of ergonomics and you can store a lot of different items in this bad boy.

The Nomatic is tough and comfortable enough to handle some hiking and many people have actually taken it on the trail with them. There’s certainly enough space for some day trip items, like a water bottle and a basic first aid kit, though you’ll obviously want to leave the bulk of your items back at the hotel.

Let it be said though that this is not a backpack for backpacking anywhere overly-rugged, nor is it a backpack for backpacking long term in Southeast Asia or elsewhere for that matter. The Nomatic is just too small and wasn’t designed for these kinds of adventures. It’s not the best backpack for hiking by any stretch but it can be adapted.

For more information on the Nomatic Travel Bag, check out our in-depth review here!

Is the Nomatic for you?

Our testers felt this was a great hybrid pack that would work well for not only hiking but for carry-on city breaks, general backpacking, or even business trips. The two most popular features for our team were the sleek outer appearance of the bag as well we the unbeatable internal organizational features.

This one is not really directly comparable to the others on our list. It is simply not designed in the same way or intended to fulfill the same function. While it is a similar size to the REI Co-op 35, the shape is utterly different and so it feels different to pack and carry. Rather the Nomatic is a great hiking backpack for travelers who are on smaller trips and want to do a little bit of hiking. If you want to do a more intensive trek, you may want to invest in another backpack on this list though.

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#9 WANDRD PRVKE 31 – Best Hiking Backpack for Photographers

“Keeping all your gear safe”

Price: $219

The WNDRED PRVKE 31 isn’t a straight up backpack for hiking, but rather, a backpack for photographers . This sexy, sleek, and superior-designed pack is chalked full of features and compartments that will hold a great deal of gear. I’ve been using one of these to carry around my Fujifilm gear – complete with 2 camera bodies, 3 lenses, and many accessories – and haven’t had a problem yet.

If you want to truly turn it into one of the best backpacks for hiking, then we recommend pairing this with the peak design camera clip so you can carry your camera on your hip or on the chest strap of your bag, making it accessible in seconds. It’s an excellent hiking camping backpack if you are an avid photographer. Word up, this is not the best hiking bag per se, but it is rather perfect for the niche of hiking photographers. The other thing to bear in mind is that WANDRD doesn’t do gendered versions so while this is amongst the best hiking backpacks for men, it is not one of the best hiking backpacks for women.

I’ve had this pack for a few years now and though I didn’t buy it as a backpack for hiking, it’s now become my go to hiking backpacks fro trips when I bring my camera. For me, the useability of the side opening and the organization of all my gear whilst still having space for my waterproof and down jackets and a water bottle make it perfect.

For a more in-depth look at this photography backpack, be sure to check out our comprehensive review of the WNDRD PRVKE 31 here!

#10 Gregory Katmai 55 Pack – Best Hiking Backpack for Winter Treks

Price: $289.95

If you are looking for the best backpack for an alpine expedition , search no more! The Gregory Katmai is one of the best backpacks for hiking because it is specially designed for winter environments. The pack comes with a ski-carrying system and a variety of removable components ideal for snowy journeys. It is a great backpacking backpack as well and you could definitely use it on a trip around the world.

The Gregory Katmai is super practical since it has numerous gear loops and other attachment sections. Additionally, it comes with lash points, glove-friendly hardware, and hip belt padding and if you are a winter hiking fan this is probably the best hiking pack made by Gregory for mountain expeditions.

We love how well this pack worked for trips into the mountains. They were able to fit inside a 70m rope, layers, gear, helmet, tools, and crampons with ease. They felt even when needing to transport lots of equipment on challenging terrain it remained super comfortable and importantly it wasn’t top heavy either.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

#11 CamelBAK Fourteener – Best Hiking Pack For Hydration

Price: $140.00

The Fourteener 32, a premier product from CamelBak, is a 32L hiking pack equipped with a 3L Crux water reservoir. This pack is meticulously designed and assembled to ensure users stay sufficiently hydrated during extended hikes. It boasts a unique Air Support back panel that offers excellent breathability, helping reduce perspiration. The integrated Crux reservoir is engineered to provide more water per sip than most rivals and includes a user-friendly on/off lever to mitigate leakage.

Besides its superior hydration capabilities, the Fourteener 32 offers an abundance of storage space with numerous pockets and compartments to accommodate all your hiking necessities. The pack’s design impeccably balances weight distribution and storage capacity, thereby ensuring optimal comfort during any hike. For those in search of a hydration pack that does not sacrifice capacity, the Fourteener 32 certainly merits consideration.

Note that the pack accommodates 29L of gear which makes it suitable for day hikes or overnight hikes when you don’t need to carry all that much camping gear.

#12 Osprey Daylite – Best For Day Hikes

Price – $150

One of Osprey’s most affordable yet adaptable bags is their Daylite, a classic, hiking orientated design protected by a lifetime warranty and coming with two water bottle holders.  As the name suggests, this pack is really light so is ideal for hiking and it has a very handy hip belt along with sternum straps that guarantee comfort.

The storage capacity is 20 litres which is plenty of room for a day hike (jacket, snacks etc) and then there are 2 side pockets that fit water bottles. It also boasts a pretty good level of water resistance too.

Oh, the Daylite is also a great everyday pack that suits all manner of occasions. It has a 15” laptop sleeve making it a pretty suitable commuter backpack.

In an ideal world of perfect science, the optimal way to compare hiking backpacks would be for one single person to take them all on the same hikes but obviously, that’s utterly unfeasible. Instead, various members of our team tried and tested them at different times, at different locations over a period of a number of years. When testing them our team was of course paying close attention to how light/ comfortable the pack felt, how easy it was to pack and unpack, how it performed in adverse weather, and how damn sexy they felt in it.

To test the best bags for hiking, we grabbed them and took them out for a proper test drive over a period of time. We got various members of our team to take these backpacks out on their many trips all over the world and in many different environments.

Packability

A backpack is designed to carry stuff and so one of the most important features is just how packable it was and we awarded top points for this. A decent pack maximizes space and makes effective packing easy. So, to test this we simply packed and unpacked these backpacks the way we usually would.

We also wanted to pay close attention to how easy this process of packing and unpacking was. Does the design of the zippers for example make being able to retrieve items easily or not?

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

If a pack is overly heavy or awkward to carry then taking it along on trips becomes uncomfortable and reduces the enjoyment of your time in all honesty! Believe us on this, we’ve all had more than our fair share of backpacks that just weighed an ounce or two too much or perhaps had crappy straps that made them feel twice as heavy!

With that in mind, we awarded full marks for packs that minimize weight and maximum carry comfort.

Functionality

In order to test out how well a pack fulfilled its primary purpose we used it for, ya know, this purpose!

For example, if it’s a carry-on pack then we took it along as a carry-on and made sure it actually passes the Ryanair test. When we wanted to find the best trekking backpack, then we took it trekking! You get the idea right? 

Here we’re looking for the best hiking backpacks, so we took them on the train to work and back… nah, I’m kidding, we took them hiking of course!

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well, not us! We’ve awarded extra points for packs that look both sexy as well as actually doing a good job!

Let’s be honest, nowadays just because you’ve got the best hiking backpack on, doesn’t mean you have to look like a dork!

Durability and Weatherproofing

Ideally, in order to really test out how durable a backpack is we would drop it from a plane and then wear it in a hurricane! But seeing as we like to do all our own stunts here at TBB, we’ve toned it down a little!

Instead, we simply inspected the materials used and the build quality of the packs paying attention to things like the seam sewing, the smoothness of the zips, and the pressure points on the packs that tend to break. 

To test how waterproof these packs were, well we got super technical and just threw a liter of water over them! Any packs caught leaking were promptly banned entirely from inclusion in our round-ups because any pack worthy of being considered one of the best backpacks for hiking needs to keep your stuff dry!

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the best size backpack for a day hike?

A day-hike backpack needs to be big enough to carry your essentials but be light and comfortable enough to let you move fast and efficiently. We recommend a 30-40L capacity with a lightweight material.

What qualities should a hiking backpack have?

That depends on how long you’re hiking. Generally, comfort, size, and durability of the material are the most essential features of hiking backpacks.

How can you find the best hiking backpack for you?

In order to find the best hiking backpack, these are the things you need to consider: 1. Durability of your hike 2. How much gear do you need to bring 3. Your upper body specs (length and width of your torso)

What is the best waterproof hiking backpack?

Having a waterproof hiking backpack is never a bad idea. We recommend getting the Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Pack 35L .

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Honestly, it depends on what kind of adventure you are going on – will you be escaping into the mountains for weeks at a time or simply going on day hikes?

I swear by Osprey – really there is no competition, Osprey definitely does make the best packs in the world – the question is, can you afford the price tag?

I will hike with my Osprey Aether 70 liter pack  on most multi-day hikes and if I am on a multi-week expedition, I carry my Osprey Aether 85 litre pack , it’s big but I find it super comfortable though so it’s not really a problem for me.

For anything under a week, I carry the REI Co-op Traverse assuming I don’t have to carry a tent and will be sleeping in huts or lodges.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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19 Comments

Love your site! my question is, which backpack model would you suggest to a 175 pds man that has a sensitive lower back?.

The best backpack for lumbar support is by far the Osprey Airscape series. However they are expensive packs.

The Osprey Aether is also adjustable and comfortable too.

What an incredibly comprehensive and informative post!

As someone who loves hiking and backpacking, I know how important it is to have a quality hiking backpack that can carry all the necessary gear comfortably and efficiently. Your roundup of the 12 best hiking backpacks is an invaluable resource for anyone in the market for a new pack.

I appreciate the attention you paid to features such as capacity, weight, comfort, and durability, as well as the detailed descriptions and pros and cons of each backpack. The inclusion of backpacks at various price points is also helpful for those on a budget. Thank you for sharing your expertise and putting together such a thorough roundup!

I love the REI Flash series. Have a 45L and 55L (new this Christmas – thanks Santa!). For us torsoly challenged hikers, the Flash is a perfect fit. I’m about 18.5 to 19 inches. About 2.5 pounds, durable, great design and features. Prices at about 1/2 of Osprey.

Thanks, Will for this insightful piece. I really love how you describe all the pros and cons so briefly. I’m definitely a fan of Osprey myself. It is always be my first choice when looking for backpacks.

Keep up the good work!! 🙂

I am trying to get my youngest daughter to join me in hiking. Still building up daytrips with her to get fitter and tougher. She is not carrying anything yet. Looks like the Rei Co-op Traverse would be a good start for us?

I bought an Osprey Exos 58 last month and it is really cool. This time, I am looking for something smaller for my wife. I think Osprey Aether would be a great choice.

That’s an amazing list! Great research.

I am going for Mt Kilimanjaro in June time, and am looking for a backpack that I can carry. Any suggestions? I would try to keep it below 35L.

Also have a camelbak hydration system, so was wondering if a as my of the other brands can fit camelbak hydration.

Many Osprey daypacks have hydration reservoirs. I also recommend Gregory and Deuter if you are wanting a proper hiking backpack on the smallish side. Check out this article for more inspiration: https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/best-hydration-packs/

That’s an awesome list and you did a great job in describing the pros and cons of each pack – something which I personally look for when choosing my next backpack. My wife recently both an Osprey Sirrus and I have Osprey Stratos 50 so I’m definitely a fan of Osprey. It’s rare to find a more ‘complete’ backpack but it all depends on many factors and the price is an important one too. Thanks for the insightful piece!

Hi Will, A really interesting and compelling review, thank you. Until I came upon it, I’d almost made my mind up to buy an Osprey Atmos AG 50. For me, comfort and support is essential, as I’ve recently had both my hips renewed. When backpacking, I’ve moved towards lightweight gear. Stratospire 1 tent, Western Mountaineering Summer Lite bag, Neo Air pad, Evernew titanium cookware, Hoka Summit shoes etc. So I’ll be using walking poles and making critical decisions about capacity and weight. 50L should be fine. I get that Osprey is the best, but is the AG the most comfortable and supportive? Keep up the excellent work, young man. Steve, UK

Morning. I am a hot guy!! My back struggles with heat. Got an old faithful 25L pack that has been with me everywhere. Added comfy but hot as hell!! So, airflow is critical.

I need a new one. Your choice for me (Isle of Man ? )

Personally, I would go for the Berghaus Freeflow

I finally bought a Lightwave 55w rucksack in the smaller size. I prefer to carry my sack higher up my back and the longer length, my daughter has one, is a bit long. She is out on the hills camping most weekends and doesn’t need a rain cover after 4yrs of constant use, her partner has had his longer and it is still in nearly perfect order so they will take some punishment too. Lightwave are a small British company but you can buy them online and I know Craigdon in Inverness are getting all their rucksacks in on trial soon.

Excellent review, thanks for sharing your experience and information.

First of all, thank you for all this information! I am hoping to go to South America for 7-8 months next year and am starting to get very overwhelmed with all the planning and what will work best for me. In 2015, I got the Osprey Farpoint 70 travel backpack. I still use it and was intending on using it for this trip. I would love to get your opinion on that backpack if you have one. If I can avoid buying a new pack that would be great. I plan on doing trekking in all countries I hope to visit and will obviously be exposed to very different climates. (Peru-Ecuador-Colombia-Brazil-Bolivia-Chile-Argentina) Any help would be appreciated!! Thanks! 🙂

The Osprey Farpoint is a SOLID pack, one of my favourites… But it isn’t the best for trekking, I would personally want something with a proper hipbelt and ventilated back.

I have had an Osprey Tallon rucksack for a number of years, one problem it leaks even with a new rain cover on. It is comfortable but it makes it more difficult to pack if everything has to go into dry bags before packing. I am looking at a Lightwave rucksack as they seem to be more rain resistant and do better sizes for a small woman. Denise

That’s a very good point – the Osprey talon is great for weekend hikes but if I was heading on a proper expedition, or into the Himalayas for a couple of weeks, I would go for a bigger backpack with better rain protection for sure.

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18 Best Hikes Near NYC That Make For Perfect Day Trips

In this post, I want to show you my personal list of the 18 best hikes near NYC that I’ve found over 2 decades. As a local of the city, I love to travel outside of it whenever possible and find the most amazing trails, and every time I do that, I am amazed at just how many options there are, but not all of them are awesome which is why the list below is filtered to show you the top options.

Most of the hiking trails near NYC I’m sharing with you are great for day hike trips and I’ll list how near each one is from NYC as well as other details you need to know (like the difficulty).

Here is my list of the 18 best hikes near NYC for day trips:

• Breakneck Ridge
• Giant Stairs Palisades hike
• Mohonk Preserve’s Labyrinth hike
• Delaware Water Gap’s Mt. Tammany hike
• Reeves Brook Loop Trail at Harriman State Park
• Dover Stone Church Cave hike
• Croton Gorge Dam hike
• Kaaterskill Falls hike, Catskills
• Monument Trail, High Point State Park
• Gertrude’s Nose hike at Lake Minnewaska
• Sterling Forest Fire Tower hike
• Bull Hill Loop Trail at Hudson Highlands
• Overlook Mountain hike in Woodstock
• Lost City Loop hike at Coxing Hills
• Stairway to Heaven Trail in NJ
• Lemon Squeezer at Harriman State Park
• Popolopen Torne trail
• Bontique Crag

1) Breakneck Ridge (great day hike near NYC):

• Location: Hudson Highlands State Park
• Difficulty: Medium – hard
• Hiking distance: 4-9 mile loop

Trail details:

Breakneck Ridge might be the most popular day hike for NYC residents to take. This is a very fun short/long and steep/strenuous hike that many NYC residents actually visit on weekends on day’s off. It takes the average person 2-3 hours to hike the main trail up Breakneck Ridge and aside from there, you’ll also find some beautiful hiking trails attached to the main one there one of which leads to a Fire Tower.

If you are going for the first time, try to go when it’s cold (not icy) or on a weekday to avoid the crowds and go with at least one friend to share the experience. This hike is very doable in one day and by the time you return to NYC, it’ll likely be late in the afternoon (provided you start Breakneck Ridge early).

2) Grand Stairs Palisades (closest day hike near NYC):

• Location: Fort Lee Historic Park
• Difficulty: Moderate – difficult
• Hiking distance: 4 mile loop

If you’re familiar with the west side of NYC and what the G.W Bridge Looks like, you’ll probably know that there are giant mountains there, as well as the Palisades Parkway. However, what you may not know is that there is a cool park above and below those mountains called Fort Lee Historic Park where you will find plenty of hikes and the most popular one on that list is Giant Stairs Palisades and it is one of the best hikes in NJ .

3) Labyrinth hike:

• Location: Mohonk Preserve
• Difficulty: Moderate – strenuous
• Distance: 2 mile loop

The Labyrinth trail is one my personal favorites. This trail is also considered by many to be one of the best day hikes withing 2 hours of NYC.

On this trail, you’ll go through amazing gorges, climb ladders and see incredible scenery. I’ve been on this hike about 4 times and each time, I love it just as much if not more than when I did it before. Before you do this hike though, know that it does involve climbing and going through some dangerous rocks/caves in places, so be careful. Additionally, do note that this is about 2 hours north of NYC, so wake up early if you plan on coming here and that there is also a fee to even enter the park ($35 per person) and a 2 mile hike to even reach the start of it (it’s not difficult though).

4) Mt. Tammany trail (Delaware Water Gap):

• Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
• Distance: 2-4 mile loop

The Mount Tammany hike is a very popular trail New Yorkers do and it’s only 2 hours from the city. I’ve personally hiked it at least 5 times and it’s a pretty nice and challenging trail. The hike takes you to a beautiful overlook of Interstate 80 and you can even cross over into Pennsylvannia there. Additionally there’s a bunch of other hikes to see in Delaware Water Gap alongside the Mount Tammany Trail, but this is the most popular one.

5) Reeves Brook Loop Trail:

• Location: Harriman State Park
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 4 mile loop

The Reeves Brook Loop trail is one of the most popular hikes people do when the visit Harriman State Park. The hike involves crossing 4 different trail marker colors through a river area, overlook view of the Harriman State Park Mountains followed by a challenging scramble, then a switchback section to finish up. This trail is short but very fun and at times a bit difficult because you can get lost in the woods here, especially during the last switchback section so be careful.

6) Dover Stone Church Cave hike:

• Location: Dover New York
• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 1 mile in an out

This is a nice family friendly hike that leads people through a plains area, into a forest, through a simple stream, then up it to an awesome cave. This cave is beautiful to explore year round and there are also other optional hikes available nearby. Overall, this is a great day hike outside of NYC and if you have extra time, you can squeeze in another one on this list to keep the fun going. In addition to that, if you do visit this place, the cave does have a waterfall inside it, and it’s just an overall cool spot to check out.

7) Croton Gorge Dam hike:

• Location: Westchester NY.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• Distance: 1-2 miles in and out.

Croton Dam is a popular spot for locals and NYC dwellers to explore. It’s a large and very beautiful dam with a park next to it, and trails going in and out of it. I’ve visited this area twice and in my opinion the Croton Dam is one of the best waterfalls in New York that I’ve ever seen, even though it’s man made.

Hikes in this region are pretty easy and scenic to explore, but the gem is definitely the dam itself, which you can explore from the top (for free) and from the bottom of it, which does require a parking fee of $10 to enter. There are also several trails over the top of the dam and under it to check out.

8) Kaaterskill Falls hike:

• Location: Catskill Mountains NY
• Distance: 2-3 miles in and out

Out of all the hikes near NYC that I’ve done, the Kaaterskill Falls hike is the one I’ve explored more than any others. It’s one of the largest waterfalls in New York State. There are at least 3-4 different ways to reach it and one of the most popular is parking by the Kaaterskill Falls trailhead by road 23 and then hiking up to it.

A plan B hike to get there too (if the first option is closed which has happened before) is to visit the Laurel House Road Parking lot which has a short trail that takes you to the top of this waterfall. There are also additional connecting trails there which lead to the bottom of the waterfall there too.

9) Monument Trail (High Point State Park):

• Location: High Point State Park NJ
• Distance: 4-8 mile loop

The Monument Trail is a very scenic hike to the top of High Point State Park where you will be able to see the Delaware River, check out the famous Monument itself and also be able to cross through the Appalachian Trail. The hike is pretty long but combined together with the many other things to do in this park can make for a great   day trip from NYC to check out.

10) Gertrude’s Nose hike:

• Location: Lake Minnewaska State Park
• Distance: 6 mile loop

The Gertrudes Nose Trail takes you through some of the most scenic areas of Lake Minnewaska. On it you will be hiking through the upper canyons of the park while overlooking the mountains nearby. The actual Gertrudes Nose is an overlook you reach by mile 3 into the hike before electing to either turn back or continue on a connecting trail to make it into a loop (which is how I recommend you do this hike). 

11) Sterling Forest State Park (Fire Tower hike):

• Location: Sterling Forest State Park
• Distance: 9 miles (loop trail)

Sterling Forest State Park is an awesome place to explore near New York City for day hikes and in this particular case, one of the most famous hikes in it is the Fire Tower trail. It’s one I’ve personally done before and it has several ways it can be hiked.

The one I elected to choose was is explained in my Sterling Forest State Park article and it basically involves parking on the western end of the park and hiking to it via 3 different trail markers. The Fire Tower is only about 2 miles from there and while it’s the only one in this park, there’s a bunch of other incredible Fire Tower hikes in New York you can also check out. I will say that the hikes in Sterling Forest State Park are better to do for experienced hikers as the trails aren’t as well maintained as some of the others on this list, but at the same time there are way less people in this park so you can more freely explore the trails there.

12) Bull Hill Loop hike:

• Distance: 4-5 mile loop

If the Breakneck Ridge hike mentioned earlier in this post is a bit intimidating for you (I can understand why), a great alternative hike to explore nearby is the Bull Hill Loop trail . It’s located on the neighboring mountain (south) of Breakneck Ridge and is a really cool hike I’ve done a few times.

The scenic views are spectacular (better than Breakneck Ridge in my opinion), the hike is easier overall and towards the end of it, you get to explore some amazing ruins of an old estate, making this an all around fun and scenic hike. The tough part of this hike is the start (white trail) which is very uphill, but after that, it’s much more manageable and fun. The end of the cool part (where you run into the estate).

13) Overlook Mountain (Woodstock NY):

• Location: Woodstock NY
• Distance: 4 miles in and out

Overlook Mountain in my opinion is a fantastic day hike near NYC. While it is a 2 hour drive to reach it, there is just so much to see and do when you get there that it makes for an entire day’s adventure when you’re there (connecting hikes, checking out Woodstock and much more). It’s very scenic when you reach the top and in addition to a Fire Tower overlooking the Catskill Mountains, there is also a cool ruins building at the summit. Getting to the top to see all of this isn’t easy, but it’s worth the hike.

14) Lost City Loop:

• Location: Coxing Hill NY
• Distance: 2-3 miles (loop)

Lost City Loop is a very nice, scenic hike that takes you to beautiful overlooks with crevices, canyons and other amazing sights. When I came here, I had the whole hike to myself and thoroughly enjoyed it and I do plan on coming back here with other friends just to show off how amazing it is. What’s great about the location of this hike is that it’s really close to Mohonk Preserve (about a 20 minute drive), and if you start a day hike at the Labyrinth and finish it early, you’ll have enough time to do this one too (as was the case for me).

15) Stairway to Heaven trail:

• Location: Vernon NJ
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Stairway to Heaven is a very popular hike for NJ residents, but it’s also another common one New Yorkers do. This hike actually takes you through a short section of the Appalachian Trail and there are at least 3 different things worth seeing on it:

• The Stairway to Heaven overlook.
• The mailbox next to that overlook where you can leave a personal note.
• The boardwalk section of the trail which is south of that that’s very scenic too.

16) Lemon Squeezer hike:

• Distance: 3 miles in and out

I’ve contemplated adding this hike for awhile not because it sucks (it’s actually stunning), but because reaching it can be a little annoying and confusing. On this trail you will cross a lot of boulders and have to do a bit of scrambling, but the experience and scenery of this hike is worth it if you are into these things.

The details of how to get to this trail is explained on the Lemon Squeezer Appalachian Trail post I wrote and yes you will also be on the same Appalachian trail for this hike as you are in the Stairway to Heaven option above, but the difference is that this part of it is further north of the Stairway to Heaven.

17) Popolopen Torne trail:

• Location: Near Bear Mountain State Park

The Popolopen Torne trail is another incredible day hike near NYC. It combines a pretty challenging hike (some rope areas) with incredible views of not just the Hudson River, but also Purple Heart Memorial Bridge and at the end you will find a flag with many props next to it for veterans. This trail can be tough to find but the official name is the Popolopen Torne trail.

18) Bonticou Crag Trail:

• Location: Mohonk Preserve NY
• Distance: 3-6 mile loop
• Fee: $15 for parking

The Bonticou Crag trail is another hike in Mohonk Preserve that I recommend all New Yorkers try especially those who enjoy scrambling giant boulders which this hike is famous for. It’s very challenging but in addition to that you will also get to see some nice views of Mohonk Preserve and also have the option to add an additional 3 mile trail to this hike which takes you to a place called Table Rocks.

Questions about these hikes near NYC:

Is there anywhere to hike in nyc.

Absolutely. Inside NYC, there are popular parks like Prospect and Central park where you’ll find hikes available, but you can also find tons of hiking trails near NYC as well like Harriman State Park and Delaware Water Gap.

How can I hike without a car in NYC?

There are many day hike trails you can explore outside NYC like in Hudson Highlands State Park and Bear Mountain State Park. You can reach these places by train.

Are there mountains near NYC?

Yes, the closest mountains near NYC are across the Hudson River in Fort Lee Historic Park. After that, the closest mountains are in Harriman State Park, then north of that the Catskills.

How far are the mountains from NYC?

20 minutes if you cross the George Washington Bridge (Fort Lee Historic park has mountains). The best mountains after that are north of NYC and about 1 hour away.

• Bear Mountain State Park
• Best hikes in the Catskills
• Best hikes in the Hudson Valley

If you have any specific trails you’d like me to consider adding to this growing list, I’d love to know your recommendations below!

Hi I'm Vitaliy, I love nature travel and this blog encapsulates all of my adventures and top recommendations of what to see (and what to avoid).

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Dear Mr. Gershfeld, Could you please let us know the location of the article’s cover photo with the waterfall and the rocks? Which hike is that? How do you reach that place? Thanks.

Hi Dennis yeah sorry about that. That particular location is called Moore’s Bridge Falls. It isn’t available on GPS and it’s not an official trail but you can find how to locate it on my other Catskills swimming holes post. It’s basically located 300 feet east of Fawn’s Leap on road 23A.

It’s surprising to know that there are so many natural places around NYC to explore, otherwise the image of NYC is quite different. I wish to have an opportunity in near future to explore these beautiful natural monuments and till then I will be keep on collecting the Useful information from your blog. Thanks for the inspiration.

No problem!

Hi, Vitaliy. For me, who is from central Europe, it was a very nice trip to the places of tourist interest around New York. I hope that one day I will have the opportunity to visit them on site as well. I also look forward to finding information from you such as: how to move as a tourist who would arrive by plane, maybe rent a car nearby at a good price, but also an overnight accommodation. So on my trip I would totally rely on your advice so I would avoid many headaches here who does not know the area well.

Of course Georgi, let me know if you plan to visit NY, which direction you’re considering going in and I’ll give you a list of places to see. Although keep in mind that my recommendations involve nature spots only as I’m not really a big NYC person in general.

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5-Day Backpacking Meal Plan: Ultralight Food Breakdown

Here is a high calorie meal plan without the weight -  3,300 calories crammed into 1.75 lbs of food per day. This is a list of what I ate in the back country on an  8 month adventure  thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail and cycle-touring New Zealand. Your 5 day backpacking meal plan needs to be high in nutrition, lightweight and easy to prepare. 

Food Considerations:

A) high nutrition..

Nowhere is fuel efficiency more important than long distance backpacking. Burning high levels of energy day after day requires high levels of nutritional intake - an average of 500 calories per hour .   Calories, fat, sodium and sugar can be taboo in the real world. However, backpacking is not the time to minimize your intake. You must ensure you are consuming adequate levels of nutrition in order to stay healthy and properly fueled.

B) Lightweight.

You want to consider how heavy that nutrition is. This is where the importance of nutritional density really matters. ie - you want a lot of nutrition for little weight. After all, you will feel every ounce on your back and your knees up those long climbs at the end of the day.

C) Ready-to-Eat.

Backpacking can be physically exhausting. Cooking and meal prep can add unnecessary time and stress (not to mention weight!) to your day. You want to be taking in the scenery and soaring over mountains, not fiddling with the stove and waiting on your food to cook. Therefore, ease and minimal preparation is a top priority with your backpacking food. 

Lets dig into our suggested ultralight backpacking meal plan. Nutritional breakdown included.

Also, see   17 Easy Meals (4 Ingredients or Less)  or  31 Backpacking Food Ideas  from the Appalachian Trail .

Complete Backpacking Meal Plan (by suggested meal):

1) breakfast: the "concoction".

Get a big nutritional (and caffeine!) jump start without cooking. Carnation Instant Breakfast Mix, Brownie Mix, Oats and Instant Coffee Powder. Mix it all up into one, secure bag at home before leaving. Eyeball your 1/5 portion each morning into a cup and add some water. Mix it and sluuuurp it up. 

2) Snack A: Trail Mix

A hiking staple. A nut variety (peanuts, pecans, cashews, sunflower seeds, almonds, pistachio, etc.) plus dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, blueberries, mango, pineapple, strawberry, banana, etc). Trail Mix provide dense calories, carbs, sugar and healthy fat. 

3) Lunch: Greenbelly Meal

Just tear open and eat. Loaded with a whopping 33% of your daily nutrition using only natural ingredients: Calories, Carbs, Protein, Fats, Sodium and Fiber. Sure to be a filling mid-day meal without any mess or cleanup. 

4) Snack B: Peanut Butter and Crackers

Again, dense and easy nutrition - protein, calories, fat. Peanut butter is a backpacking food essential. Can be lathered on and tastes good on almost anything.

5) Dinner: Noodles, Veggies, Tuna and Olive Oil

The day is over - bust out that stove for a hot meal. Mashed potatoes and creamy pastas leave your pot a sticky mess. Instant noodles, however, are easy to wipe out or even lick clean.  Fresh vegetables don't pack very well so drop in some dried veggies . A packet of tuna provides dense protein. Olive oil is a nice boost of fat and calories, not to mention it tastes great. 

6) Night Snack: Tea and Dessert

Since the stove is already out, heat some tea and sit by the fire with something sweet (candy, whatever) or savory before bed. On a cold night, the hot tea can be a nice luxury. Chamomile can help ensure a nice rest after the long day as well.

Nutritional Breakdown:

Here is the full nutritional and weight breakdown. 3,300 calories per day. Feel free to mix and match line items and increase/ decrease serving size depending on your taste buds and performance needs.

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Hiking the Enchantments: The Only Guide You’ll Need

Hiking the Enchantments is officially one of my favorite backpacking experiences of all time. We were among the lucky ones who scored a five-day, four-night Core Enchantment Zone permit to savor our time exploring the area.

While backpacking the Enchantments Trail is the ultimate dream, it’s not the only way to hike the Enchantments. Those in peak physical shape and bold enough for the undertaking have the option to thru-hike the trail in one day.

In this complete guide, I highlight everything you need to know for either backpacking or day-hiking the Enchantments. I cover how to apply for permits, parking, shuttle services, what to expect, what to pack, and how to find the best spots along the trail.

Continue reading to find out why hiking the Enchantments is one of the most memorable adventures in the PNW.

Table of Contents

A Complete Guide to Hiking the Enchantments

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The Enchantments Trail Stats

Distance:  20 Miles

Level:  Hard

Type:  Point to Point

Elevation Gain:  4,849 Feet

Time:  9 – 15 Hours (with an average time of 11.5 hours)

Traffic:  Moderate

Dogs:  No

Permits and Passes

Regardless of whether you’re planning to thru-hiking the Enchantments in one day or preparing to spend a couple of nights in the mountains you need both a permit and a parking pass before beginning your adventure.

Parking Pass

All hikers leaving a car at the trailhead must pay $5 for a  Northwest Forest Day Pass . This pass can be purchased online, at a supplying retail store, or at the trailhead. 

If you are planning to leave one car at the starting trailhead and another at the ending trailhead, you will need two passes. One for each car.

If you are already a holder of the Northwest Forest Annual Pass  ($30) you do not need to pay an additional $5 for a day pass.

Likewise, If you have an  America the Beautiful National Park Pass ($80) you do not need to purchase the day pass.

Make sure your pass is visible and displayed in your vehicle before beginning the trail.

Shuttle Options

There are also shuttle services available for those who aren’t able to park a car at both trailheads. There are two shuttle operators: Loop Connector ($24) and the Leavenworth Shuttle ($30).

We used Loop Connector but both are great options. Keep in mind that the Leavenworth shuttle requires reservations made at least 72 hours in advance, and a two-person booking minimum.

Free Day-Pass Permit

An Alpine Lake Wilderness Permit is required to day-hike the Enchantments. Day-use permits are free and self-issued at the trailhead.

Before beginning the Enchantments Trail, fill out the permit. Deposit the bottom half of the permit in the box near the trailhead (as directed) and keep the other half with you for the duration of the hike.

Once you exit the trail, drop the remaining permit in the designated box.

Overnight Permit

Those hoping to backpack the Enchantment Trail between May 15 and October 31 need to apply for an Enchantments Area Wilderness Permit .

Unfortunately, overnight permits are extremely hard to acquire — especially when gunning for the highly sought-after Core Enchantment Zone permit.

Overnight Permit Details

The annual lottery for overnight permits opens on February 15 and runs until March 1. Fortunately, when you actually apply during that time frame does not matter. Permit holders will be chosen at random regardless of their submission date during the window.

When applying, you are applying for a specific overnight zone. The Enchantments are divided into five zones:

• Eightmile/Caroline Zone
• Stuart Zone
• Colchuck Zone

Core Enchantment Zone

The Core Enchantment Zone is the most coveted permit zone, as these permit holders are permitted to sleep in any zone. All areas are open for day use but your permit decides where you can camp — ultimately determining how many miles you are logging each day.

Applicants have less than a 2% chance of scoring a permit in the Core Enchantment zone. How in the world we lucked out and scored one of those, I have no idea.

Someone was looking out. I hope you can be so lucky too!

How to Apply

Every applicant must pay a $6 non-refundable application fee.

To apply, you need to know your desired entry date, group size, and permit zone.

Tip: Apply for numerous dates, permit zones, and group sizes (and have your group members do the same). If you can be flexible with these details you have a better chance of securing a permit .

On March 17, cross your fingers, say a prayer, do a jig, and then log back into your account to view the results of the lottery.

You can find more details about the permit lottery and apply here .

What if I Didn’t Get a Permit?

Unfortunately, sometimes you do everything right in the permit process and you still don’t score one. Don’t worry, you’re not out of luck.

While you won’t get to backpack the Enchantments, you can still experience some of the beauty. A really popular option is day hiking to Colchuck Lake and back.

Colchuck Lake Trail is a stunning hike that leads to one of the most beautiful alpine lakes I have ever witnessed. The trail will challenge you physically and make you ask yourself more than once if it’s worth it — but trust me, it is.

Once you lay eyes on Colchuck Lake, you’ll forget about the last four miles or the fact that you still have to hike four back to your car.

Trailhead Information

There are two starting points for hiking the Enchantments: The Stuart/Colchuck Lake Trailhead and the Snow Lakes Trailhead.

The most popular starting point is from the Stuart/Colchuck Lake Trailhead, and the one I recommend.

The Stuart/Colchuck Trailhead has a starting elevation 2,000 feet higher than that of Snow Lakes. Not only do you save in overall elevation gain but you also get to face the infamous Aasgard Pass sooner rather than later.

You’re going to want fresh legs to get over the pass.

Best Time to Hike the Enchantments

As the permit window would suggest, the best time to hike the Enchantments is June – October.

Early Summer

While hiking in June still requires a permit, you run the risk of the trail being heavily covered in snow. Heavy snow coverage could make an already challenging Aagard Pass impassable. Not to mention, snow and ice could be covering the iconic alpine lakes.

Mid to Late Summer

We backpacked the trail the second week of August and could not have asked for better conditions. Mid to late summer is prime time to be on the trail. Just keep in mind that mosquitos are out for blood during peak summer (pun intended) and you will want to bring hoards of bug spray.

Lastly, hiking the Enchantments during October should be a bucket list item of its own. While temperatures begin to drop during this time and early snowfall can disrupt plans, the larch season is in full effect and the Enchantments are an incredible place to watch the colors change.

What to Expect Hiking the Enchantments

Plan to arrive bright and early to start the hike.

Starting before or right at sunrise ensures you have enough time to complete the trail if day-hiking, gives you more options for campsites if you’re backpacking, and increases your odds of snagging a parking spot if leaving a car at the trailhead.

Make sure to complete your day-hike registration if necessary before heading out on the trail.

Expect to begin the hike with others. The hike to Colchuck Lake begins from the same trailhead and is a very popular day hike.

The first mile is shaded and easygoing. It’s a great warm-up section for what’s to come. After the first mile, however, the elevation begins to increase as you initiate the climb to Colchuck Lake.

Colchuck Lake

The route to Colchuck Lake is beautiful and involves river crossings, boulder fields, switchbacks, and even a waterfall just off the trail. The path is well-maintained and straightforward.

Around mile four you reach the breathtaking Colchuck Lake. The trail around the lake is relatively mellow and a great section to catch your breath before tackling Aasgard.

If you’re considering day-hiking to Colchuck Lake and back, check out my guide: Colchuck Lake Trail: A Complete Hiking Guide .

Camping at Colchuck Lake

If you scored either a Colchuck Zone or Core Enchantment Zone overnight permit, you get to set up camp around Colchuck and conquer the next section of the hike with rested legs in the morning.

We set up camp at a nice shaded spot right along the lake. If using the Alltrails map , we camped at the location pinned just before the toilet. There are also smaller campsites further around the lake that get you even closer to Aasgard.

We spent the evening swimming in the lake and planning our attack for the morning. It was wonderful.

We had heard the mosquitos were horrendous but, relatively speaking, we lucked out. You will still want to make sure you have your long sleeves and pants, as well as mosquito repellant on hand.

Aasgard Pass

Aasgard’s reputation proceeds it and for good reason. While the pass is only 1.5 miles, it requires hikers to climb nearly 2000 feet of elevation.

The pass is one giant boulder field and therefore entails a good amount of scrambling and climbing. Day hikers will hit the pass around mile five. Backpackers who slept at the base should aim to get over the pass before the sun.

Once the sun directly shines on the mountain things heat up quickly.

The pass is challenging but 100% doable. The research I had done prior to starting the hike made Aasgard seem incredibly daunting and miserable.

While I don’t want to downplay the pass, I do want to add that if you are physically fit, an experienced hiker, and mentally up for the challenge, then I’m happy to report it looks worse than it is.

There is somewhat of a trail weaving around the boulders and the views get increasingly better as you climb.

With that being said, I did wish more than once that I had been more frugal with my packing and not brought a 35lb pack for the trip.

But hey, I made it to the top regardless, wearing a big smile at that.

Once you step over the top of the pass the entire terrain changes. I was speechless.

Until that moment, I had never seen anything quite like the Core Enchantment Zone. The next mile after the pass truly feels like you’re on another planet.

There is granite stretching in all directions, multiple clear blue alpine pools, and jagged mountain tops in every direction you look. Do note that there is no shade during this section of the trail.

Crystal Lake Overlook

One of my favorite moments from the entire trail we actually stumbled upon accidentally.

Just before the trail begins to tail left towards Inspiration Lake, there is a social trail that leads straight to an overlook.

From the overlook, you can see Crystal Lake. This viewpoint is one of the best along the entire trail and absolutely worth a stop.

We grabbed lunch here before continuing on.

The section down to Inspiration Lake was slippery and steep. We half walked, half skid, half slid on our butts down to the lake. We had a good laugh watching others fumble down the snowy path as well.

Inspiration and Perfection Lakes

Inspiration Lake is stunning but I enjoyed Perfection Lake even more.

From Perfection Lake you can see the impressive Prusik Peak. If you’re backpacking and your legs are up for it you can day hike to Prusik. I wish we had jumped on the opportunity to trek to Prusik Peak but we opted to have a relaxing day at camp instead.

We wanted to soak up as much time in the area because we thought once you passed the Perfection Lake/Crystal Lake Area the “wow” factor of hiking the Enchantments was over.

We were mistaken.

My absolute favorite part of the entire trail is the section after Perfection Lake before you hit Snow Lakes. For day hikers, this is incredible news. Just as you’re hitting the halfway point and wondering what you’ve gotten yourself into — the trail is going to blow your mind.

Camping in the Core Enchantment Zone

Perfection Lake

We found an awesome camp spot for night two up on a perch overlooking Perfection Lake. From Inspiration Lake the trail leads you left around Perfection Lake. However, we scrambled off to the right and set up camp.

We had an incredible view, several visits from a friendly mountain goat who liked to lay in the snow near our camp, and a blast swimming in the icy waters.

Crystal Lake

Per the recommendation of a friend, we detoured off to nearby Crystal Lake to sleep for our third night. Although the Enchantments Trail does not route you past Crystal Lake, it’s super close and easy to get to.

We didn’t see a single soul the whole time we were there. If you’re looking for solitude, Crystal Lake is the place to be.

The section of trail that leads down to Snow Lakes is extremely steep, rocky, and beautiful. Between the waterfalls, mountain goats, and wildflowers it was hard to know which direction to look.

The trekking poles came in clutch for the descent to Snow Lakes. You’re navigating over granite slabs, boulders, and gravel terrain before finally lowering into the timberline.

Altogether, the section is adventurous and fun but hard on the knees.

If you’re interested in day-hiking to the lakes, check out my guide: How to Hike Snow Lakes Trail near Leavenworth, Washington.

Upper Snow Lake

Once you finally lay eyes on Upper Snow Lake it’s hard to believe you’re still doing the same hike. The terrain and foliage change so drastically but one thing remains — everywhere you look is beautiful.

Upper Snow Lake is a beautiful shade of blue. We wasted no time in hopping in.

From here, I would say the final seven miles to the end of the trail is mediocre in comparison to what you’ve already witnessed.

By this point, you’ve either already walked nearly 14 miles and are ready to get off the trail, or you haven’t showered or eaten real food in five days and are therefore equally as ready to get off the trail.

Lots of downhill, dense forests and switchbacks will lead you to the well-earned exit.

Camping at Snow Lakes

There are several campsites along Upper Snow Lake. Almost all of the campsites near the top of Upper Snow Lake were already occupied by Snow Zone permit holders trying to get as close to the Core Enchantment Zone as possible.

On our fourth and final night, we found a great, large, campsite about halfway down the length of the lake.

What to Pack

Day-Hike Packing List

I recommend bringing these items for your day hike in the Enchantments. Keep in mind this is not your ordinary day-hike it’s a grueling haul. Don’t skimp on what you pack.

Anything with an asterisk beside it I consider optional.

Gear/Clothing

• 3L water reservoir
• Water filter
• Trekking poles
• Sun Hoody/Extra Layer
• First-Aid kit
• Required passes
• Offline trail map

Food/Accessories

• Energy snacks
• Hydration Tablets
• Kula Cloth*
• Trowel + TP

Backpacking Packing List

This list is based on our 4-night, 5-day trip hiking in the Enchantments. Adjust accordingly depending on the time of year and the number of days you’re staying.

For more details on what to pack, check out my Backpacking Essentials gear guide.

Again, asterisked items are optional but recommended.

• 60L Backpack (+ rainfly)
• 3L Water Reservoir
• Tent ( Footprint * + Rainfly)
• Sleeping Bag
• Sleeping Pad
• Camp Chair*
• Utensils Set
• Ultralight and Packable Day Pack
• 2 Athletic Shorts
• 2 Athletic Tops
• 2 Sports Bras
• 3 Pairs of Socks
• Bottom Layer

Accessories

• Trekking Poles
• Bug Face Net*
• Camera (+ Extra Battery)
• Phone Charger
• Toothbrush + Toothpaste
• Biodegradable Soap
• Breakfast Meal
• Dinner Meal
• First-Aid Kit
• Offline Map
• Water Filter
• Portable Battery Pack

Final Thoughts on Hiking the Enchantments

Hiking the Enchantments is mesmerizing and truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

While backpacking the trail is the ultimate goal and I encourage everyone to keep applying, I do think it’s 100% worth the taxing day hike just to be able to witness it.

With that being said, doing a 20-mile day hike consisting of such extreme elevation gain and loss is an exhausting undertaking and one that needs to be taken seriously.

Before choosing to do so make sure you are physically, mentally, and logistically prepared.

Are you hoping for an overnight permit or preparing to day hike the Enchantments? If you have any questions about the trail, logistics, camping spots, or what to pack, drop me a message in the comment section below!

Happy adventuring!

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