If you are participating in any light activity and the gear involved is more than your pockets can carry, then you will need a daypack. Whether it is hiking, camping or travelling, a daypack will help you to remain organized. Daypacks are designed for a single day of hiking. Therefore, they tend to be much smaller than backpacks. What you should remember is that all daypacks can be classified as backpacks. However, not all backpacks can fit into the description of daypacks. A backpack is any bag carried on your back, which is why a daypack fits into that category.
Daypacks versus Backpacks
Daypacks are usually small since they are meant for single day hiking. They have a capacity of around 35 to 40 liters. However, the size will also be determined by the type of hiking that you intend to do, or the trail location. Majority of daypacks are frameless, since they are not designed to handle a lot of weight and stress. If your hiking will just be half a day, then a smaller-sized backpack will be enough. However, if you are hiking in the mountains and you intend to spend the whole day there, then you will require a larger daypack, that can accommodate clothing, food, extra water and other important hiking gear. Hydration packs also fall in the category of daypacks. When selecting your daypack, just ensure that it has enough space to fit in all your hiking gear. If your trip involves staying overnight or even the entire weekend, then most of the daypacks will not be suitable. You will have to carry additional gear and equipment like a sleeping pad, shelter equipment, food, cooking items and change of clothes. All this additional items require more space, which is not available in most daypacks. The best option will be to carry a backpack, in order to have sufficient room for all your gear. However, some ultra-lightweight hikers who believe that a daypack is sufficient even for backpacking trips.
Why Is It Important To Use a Daypack For a Day Hike?
For day hikers, a daypack will be enough. It is roomy enough to carry all the items that will be needed during the trip. Due to lack of information, there is still a majority of day hikers, who purchase a backpack instead of a simple daypack. If you do that, chances are very high that you will buy a larger bag and even spend more. Additionally, you will have such a huge bag for a single day of hiking that you might be tempted to carry unnecessary luggage. Therefore, just stick to a daypack if you are going for a dayhike. You will definitely enjoy the convenience.
Best 10 Daypacks For Hiking, Outdoors, Travel – Reviewed
1. New Outlander 20L/33L Durable Packable Lightweight Daypack
- Water-resistant and DURABLE. The backpack is made...
- COMPACT. Folds into zippered inner pocket to fit...
- LIGHTWEIGHT(0.46 Pounds) and ROOMY(20 Liters). A...
- MULTIPLE COMPARTMENTS. Features a classic shape...
- NEW VERSION Includes a carabiner clip so you...
If you are looking for the best value trekking daypack, then you should consider this one. The pack is ultra-awesome, ultra-light and ultra-durable. It is designed for minimalist, whether you are going for an accessional travel, or just day to day use. It comes with adjustable and breathable straps, which make it comfortable and easy, to carry all day long. The daypack is also compact. This means that it can fold into a zippered inner pocket and fit anywhere. Additionally, you can simply unfold it from the packet, and revert to the backpack. Another feature that makes it highly reliable is the presence of multi compartments. It has been designed with a classic shape and fitted with multiple pockets for organization and storage. The main compartment is roomy enough, to carry your main items.
Additionally, there are two zipper pockets on the side, which can be used to carry small accessories. Your valuable items such as keys and credit cards can be carried inside the security internal pocket, while your water bottle and umbrella can be contained in the two side pockets. This daypack is also highly durable. It is crafted using nylon fabric that is highly water and rip resistant to provide utmost strength as well as long-lasting performance. All this is achieved with minimal weight. All stress points have been reinforced for increased longevity. You don’t have to pay overweight charges anymore, thanks to this lightweight daypack.
2. HikPro Ultra Lightweight Packable Durable Daypack
- LIGHTWEIGHT & FOLDABLE - Minimalist Designed,...
- ROOMY - 20L Internal Space, Three Zippered...
- WATER RESISTANT - Made with High-Quality Water...
- COMFORTABLE - 20+ Years Experience makes the Most...
- TEAR RESISTANT & MUCH MORE DURABLE - The...
Your hiking trip just got lighter, thanks to this convenient, packable, camping daypack. One of its main features is durability. It has been made from high quality nylon material, which is also resistant to water and tear. The metal zipper used on the bag is abrasion resistant, thus designed to handle the rugged conditions experienced during camping or hiking. Several places of the bag have been reinforced, especially those which encounter more abuse to ensure longevity. The pack is lightweight, thus ideal for vacation travel, shopping, camping and most importantly hiking. As much as it appears small on the outside, you will be surprised by the high amount of luggage that can be accommodated inside. It can carry up to 20 liters of items.
You can easily fold the bag into a small size allowing you to fit it inside your purse, suitcase or even an extra bag, and it will not take up any huge space. With more than 23 years in the backpacking industry, this bag was designed with comfort in mind. The shoulder straps, crafted using breathable mesh allows breathability. They are also padded, to make sure that they don’t cut into your shoulders. The length of the straps is easily adjustable while the high quality dual-way zipper runs smoothly. It features three zippered compartments. The main pocket is roomy enough to handle your main items while the smaller outer pockets are mainly for quick access. There is also a zippered internal security pocket. Travel light and secure, with this small size hiking daypack.
3. Outlander 35L Packable Lightweight Hiking Daypack
- Water-resistant and DURABLE. The backpack is made...
- COMPACT. Folds into zippered inner pocket to fit...
- LIGHTWEIGHT (0.7 Pounds) and ROOMY (35 Liters). A...
- MULTIPLE COMPARTMENTS. Features a classic shape...
- NEW VERSION: Includes aluminum CARABINER, WHISTLE...
Featuring a stylish look, you can travel anywhere with this backpack. It is perfect for minimalists, who value convenience, comfort and lightweight trekking. The pack was designed with durability in mind. It is made using nylon fabric, which is water and rip-resistant. This provides long-lasting performance and strength, with minimal weight. Major stress points are reinforced for increased longevity. Moreover, the metal zipper used on the bag is abrasion resistant. It is lightweight and roomy.
You can carry up to 35 liters of luggage. You can also fold the bag and store it into its own pocket and you will not have to pay extra fees. Once you arrive at your destination you simply remove it from your luggage, and you are set for your trekking. It comes with several pockets for organization and storage. It features a roomy main compartment as well as two zipper pockets on the side, for smaller items. Two side pockets have been added, which can be used to carry an umbrella or water.
4. TETON Sports Oasis 2 Liter Hydration Backpack With Rain Cover
- SATISFY YOUR THIRST FOR ADVENTURE: Lightweight and...
- FREE HYDRATION BLADDER: 2-Liter; Durable,...
- CUSTOMIZABLE COMFORT: Backpack for men, women, and...
- TRUSTED QUALITY: Over 1,000 verified 5-star...
- TETON SPORTS PROMISE: Reach out to our AMAZING...
You sometimes go hiking in those dry and hot trails. In such a case, you require a hiking daypack with hydration. Thanks to this backpack from Teton Sports, you don’t have to look further. Its total capacity is 18 liters. It also features a 2-liter of hydration bladder that is BPA free, puncture resistant and durable. The full main compartment has been lined with a water guard. There is also a butterfly storage compartment, which can be used to store gear.
Its front zipper pocket comes with a key clip together with an organizer. This front compartment can be used those items that will be frequently needed during your hiking. Store your sunscreen protection, energy bars and water in the mesh side pockets. For comfort, this pack features high density EVA foam, together with ventilation holes. There is also a chest shock-absorber and mesh covering to add breathability and comfort to the shoulder straps.
5. Osprey Packs Daylite Plus Daypack
- Large panel loading main compartment provides...
- Dual stretch mesh side pockets provide additional...
- The multi-function interior sleeve can be used for...
- Mesh-covered die-cut foam back panel provides both...
- Front panel shove-it pocket is great for stashing...
The Osprey Daylite Plus is the perfect daypack for the office, travels or short hiking trips. It’s comfortable and sturdy. Also, you will appreciate its exceptional versatility. In fact, it’s one of the most versatile daypacks for travel you can find on the market today. As much as it’s not spacious enough for a backpacking trip, it has enough room to accommodate hiking gear that can you use for two to three days. It’s simple and streamlined. Furthermore, it’s designed in a way that you can easily access your belongings.
This lightweight daypack for travel comes with a shove-it pocket on the front panel, which you can use to store your valuable items. It also features an integrated handle, designed to make storing and hauling easier. As noted earlier, it’s exceptionally versatile, which means that it can easily transition from the office to the trail. Osprey produces comfortable daypacks, and the Daylite Plus is no exception. As much as its shoulder straps are thin, they are proportioned and contoured just right. Therefore, you will not feel as if it’s cutting through your shoulders. It also comes with a removable waist belt, which you can use if you need more support.
Apart from the main compartment, it also features a zippered mesh organizer, which you can use to store your keys, credit cards, and other valuables. You can use the two side pockets for storing your water bottle. If you are like keeping your stuff organized whenever you are traveling, this bag will make your work easier. Similar to other daypacks from this brand, the Daylite Plus is highly breathable. It also performs well in wet conditions. It’s material water resistant – designed to keep your valuables dry during foggy days or light drizzles.
6. OutdoorMaster 50L Hiking Backpack, Waterproof Backpack Cover
- MULTIPURPOSE 45L HIKING BACKPACK - Spacious...
- WATERPROOF RAIN COVER INCLUDED - Dedicated pocket...
- DURABLE & COMFORTABLE TO CARRY - Made of...
- PACKED WITH FEATURES & POCKETS - Plenty of both...
- WHAT YOU GET - 1 x OutdoorMaster Hiking Backpack...
This multi-purpose and versatile hiking backpack has been designed and well made, to give you extended and comfortable service. If you are looking for the best hiking daypacks, then you should highly consider this Outdoormaster. It features a 50-liter capacity, suitable for those who intend to be in the wilderness much longer. It is spacious enough with comfortable thickened straps. The air ventilation system ensures breathability. Therefore, there will be no accumulation of bad odors, even if you store your sweat-laden hiking clothes inside.
This waterproof hiking daypack comes with water-resistant cover, which keeps your items warm and dry, even during heavy rain. Its exterior also features a water-repellant coating treatment suitable for lighter rain. A pocket rich design enables easy sorting of your travelling gear while the foam padded hip belt provides additional support. Material used is high quality durable nylon, which is also lightweight. This combination allows you to travel light, without worrying about the bag falling apart. It comes with sufficient storage for all your travelling gear.
7. 4Monster Hiking Daypack Water Resistant Lightweight For Travel Camping Outdoor
- 【Lightweight & Compact】Weight only 4 (oz),...
- 【Water Resistant material】This lightweight...
- 【Durable】Tear-resistant 30D nylon will...
- 【Multipurpose】This Foldable backpack provides...
- We want to make sure you have an amazing...
The 4Monster Daypack offers the right combination of features to make it carry personal items and more. Made using 30D Nylon material and Cordura fabric, this backpack is both waterproof and durable for your needs. The Cordura fabric is also highly rip and water-resistant – perfect for large hauls when outdoors. It even comes with a convenient zipper closer, and 18inch should drop to make it comfortable to use. Designed to be light in weight and roomy, this daypack is an excellent addition to your outdoor regimen.
More so, the backpack features two-way abrasion-resistant YKK metal zippers for convenient use. These zippers are also durable and ensure years of reliable performance. The inclusion of breathable mesh shoulder straps also helps to reduce the weight placed on your shoulder when in use. You will even appreciate the fact that these are adjustable to suit specific body types and sizes.
Even more, this unit seems small until you open it! Yes, that`s right, and this backpack also easily folds up into a small pocket – for convenient storage. While the backpack is roomy, it easily folds up into a small pouch, which you can store in your car or even the closet. The specially designed straps help to reduce the burden on your shoulder, and won’t make clothes too sweaty during intense climbing activities.
8. Zomake Ultra Lightweight Packable Hiking Daypack
- ROOMY - Designed with 20L travel capacity yet...
- AIRPORT HERO - The lightweight backpack can easily...
- INCOMPARABLE QUALITY - Made with thick sturdy and...
- VERSATILTY - ZOMAKE backpack has been tested and...
- SATISFATION GUARANTEE - We promise to provide the...
Carrying your essential items has never been this easy. The Zomaka Hiking back provides all the unique features you need to move around with convenience. The bag offers an exceptional 20L capacity, and it’s also foldable at the same time. With an outstanding 20L of space, you have more than sufficient space to carry flashlights, food essentials, bear sprays, and more.
The compartment structure of this backpack is also unique. It comes with one main zipped compartment, one front pocket, and two side pockets. Thus, you will find it easy to keep your items organized, even when going for long hikes.
When it comes to storage, you will be pleased to know that this unit can fold up into a small package. Thus, you will find it easy to pack in your suitcase as a secondary backpack when you arrive at your travel destination.
Quality oozes throughout the physical design of this backpack. The other key aspect to consider would be that it’s made using a robust and water-resistant material. As such, you are sure your items are safe even when the weather changes as you are walking back to camp. Furthermore, the material is durable and abrasion-resistant – perfect for longevity purposes.
Thanks to the unique SBS metal zipper and strengthened stitching, you have a heavy-duty backpack that you can count on even when carrying large hauls.
9. Mountaintop 40 Liter Hiking Backpack With Rain Cover
- 【Water-resistant Backpack】:This 40L hiking...
- 【40L Backpack】:The dimensions of camping...
- 【Comfortable and Breathable】:Breathable mesh...
- 【Consummate Design】:The smooth YKK zipper can...
- 【Ideal & Outdoor Companion】:The travel...
This bag is so light that you might even forget you are wearing it. With six adjustable straps, you can use them for tying up your bag or even hanging your sleeping hammock, tripod, bag or anything else that you might need to hang. The front has a zippered access, where you gain entry into the main compartment of this ultralight hiking daypack. The padding on the bag is simply outstanding. Dense and deeply padded shoulder straps together with a hip belt offer cushioned comfort as well as promoting ventilation along your shoulders and back.
It features multiple pockets. There are two at the front, 2 mesh pockets, 2 pouch pockets, as well as the main compartment. The main compartment has a sleeve, which helps to organize and separate your travelling items and accessories. The bag is available in more than ten different colors to choose. The two mesh pouches on the side can be used for your water bottles.
10. X-Sports Decathlon QUECHUA Kids Adults Outdoor 10L Daypack
- Material:Water and Tear Resistant Nylon material.
- Adjustable shoulder straps; Two main compartments
- Capacity:10L, Dimensions:15.7*9.1*3.9 Inch,...
- Fits Ipad,Textbook,Purse,Phone,Clothes and Pens
- High value of money, very good for hiking and...
If you want to have a happy hiking trip, then you need to start with a smart backpack. The daypack is constructed using nylon material which has a high abrasion resistance. The material is also resistant to wear and tear, thus giving you that durability. If you will be hiking in light drizzles, then your items will remain dry inside the bag, since it is water resistant. However, don’t expose it to heavy rains, since the protection might not be that adequate.
The shoulder straps are padded with thick material for convenient travelling, camping, hiking or trekking. It can be used by both children and adults alike. With a 40-liter capacity, this pack can accommodate most of your necessary hiking gear, and even leave some space. The quality is higher than other more expensive packs. You can fit books, purse, clothes and other items. It comes with two main compartments, to help you stay organized.