Home > Packs

The Best Daypacks of 2023

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 2023.

Best Daypacks Hero(Photo/Miya Tsudome)
Support us! GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn More

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.

For review purposes, we considered and tested the best small backpacks that hold 15-30L. 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.

The Best Daypacks of 2023


Best Overall Daypack

Deuter Speed Lite 25

Specs

  • 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.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Durable
  • Carries weight well
  • Bluesign-certified body fabric

Cons

  • Frame limits packability for travel
  • Shoulder pocket a bit too small to hold phone
Best Budget Daypack

REI Co-op Flash 22

Specs

  • 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)
  • Hydration-compatible Yes, up to 3 L
  • Ideal use Trail to town
  • Weight 14 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Budget price
  • Packability

Cons

  • Lower capacity
  • Not much structure
Best Runner-Up Daypack

REI Co-op Trail 25

Specs

  • Material Recycled ripstop nylon
  • 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.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Comfortable
  • Affordable
  • Lots of useful features
  • Good quality materials

Cons

  • No padded waist belt
  • Pockets can make the front flap of the pack top heavy
Best Commuter Daypack

Salomon Trailblazer 20

Specs

  • 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
  • Hydration-compatible Yes
  • Ideal use Daily driver
  • Weight 14.6 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Good size for daily use
  • Many pockets
  • Comfortable padded hip belt

Cons

  • Small shoulder straps
  • Not great for running or fast mountain pursuits
Best Hybrid Running Daypack

Arc’teryx Aerios 15

Specs

  • 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., 8 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Comfortable shoulder harness with zippered pockets and pouches
  • Double set of stretchy chest cords to keep pack from moving too much
  • High-quality materials

Cons

  • Pricey
  • No hydration sleeve
  • Side pockets not the most secure
Best Technical Daypack

Black Diamond Pursuit 15

Specs

  • 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
  • Hydration-compatible Yes
  • Ideal use Scrambling or summit pack
  • Weight 1 lb., 8 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Comfortable suspension system with seamless wing construction that hugs your body
  • Lots of pockets
  • Easy access trekking pole storage

Cons

  • No ice ax loop
  • Pricey
Best Women's-Specific Daypack

Osprey Tempest Pro 18

Specs

  • Material 100D 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 1 lb., 14.4 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • 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

Cons

  • On the pricier side at $200
  • Hydration pouch won't accept full 3 L bladders in smaller pack sizes
Best of the Rest

Gregory Nano 22 Daypack

Specs

  • 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
  • Hydration-compatible Yes
  • Ideal use Around town, day hikes
  • Weight 1 lb., 1.6 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Wide, comfortable shoulder straps
  • Die-cut foam back panel for enhanced breathability
  • Comes with a hydration bladder
  • Lots of pockets

Cons

  • Hip strap is only a thin piece of webbing
  • Too big to be a running pack

Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Del Dia Pack

Specs

  • Material 100% repurposed ripstop nylon
  • Pockets One external zippered
  • Suspension style Frameless
  • Hydration-compatible Yes, up to 2 L
  • Ideal use Travel, commuting
  • Weight 10.6 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Sustainable
  • Price
  • Slender profile for commuting

Cons

  • Fabric colors sometimes aren’t as advertised
  • Requires careful packing

Gregory Citro and Juno 30L Hydration Packs

Specs

  • Material 210D/420D ripstop nylon
  • Pockets Three external stretch, one external zippered, two hipbelt
  • Suspension style Frameless foam back panel
  • Hydration-compatible Yes, up to 2 L
  • Ideal use All around
  • Weight 2 lbs., 1.4 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Lots of external storage
  • Hydration-friendly

Cons

  • Heavier for a day pack
  • Price

Matador Freerain22 Packable Daypack

Specs

  • Material 50D ripstop nylon, with 100D Robic wear panels
  • Pockets Two external stretch, One external zippered
  • Suspension style Frameless
  • Hydration-compatible No
  • Ideal use Travel
  • Weight 10.6 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Great packability
  • Waterproof fabric
  • Rugged wear panels

Cons

  • No foam back panel or frame in a larger volume pack
  • Uncomfortable pack straps

Osprey Hikelite 18 Pack

Specs

  • Material 100D/420D recycled nylon
  • Pockets Two external stretch, one zippered
  • Suspension style Alloy wire frame, breathable mesh back panel
  • Hydration-compatible Yes, up to 3 L
  • Ideal use Backpacking, travel
  • Weight 1 lb., 8.7 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

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

Cons

  • Limited external attachment options

Patagonia Terravia 28L

Specs

  • Material 100% recycled nylon
  • Pockets Three external stretch, one zippered
  • Suspension style Frameless foam back panel
  • Hydration-compatible Yes, up to 3 L
  • Ideal use Day trips that require a lot of gear or might run long
  • Weight 1 lb., 12 oz.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Comfortable mesh backpanel
  • Hydration compatible
  • Integrated rain cover

Cons

  • Hipbelt pockets are a bit shallow

Osprey Talon 22

Specs

  • Material 210D/420D recycled ripstop nylon
  • Pockets Three external stretch, one external zippered, and two hipbelt
  • Suspension style Frameless foam back panel
  • Hydration-compatible Yes
  • Ideal use Multisport days
  • Weight 2 lbs.
The Best Daypacks of 2023

Pros

  • Many attachment features
  • Cushy suspension system

Cons

  • On the heavier end

Daypack Comparison Chart

DaypackMaterialPocketsSuspension StyleHydration-CompatibleWeight
Deuter Speed Lite 25
100D and 140D high-tenacity 100% recycled polyamide4 totalDeuter’s Lite System, a tensioned Derlin U frameYes1 lb., 9 oz.
REI Co-op Flash 22
Recycled ripstop nylon5 totalFrameless foam back panel (removable)Yes14 oz.
REI Co-op Trail 25
Recycled ripstop nylon6 totalInternal HPDE framesheetYes1 lb., 15 oz.
Salomon Trailblazer 20
Polyester, polyamide, elastane, polyethylene8 totalPadded back system with padded hip beltYes14.6 oz.
Arc’teryx Aerios 15
100-denier CORDURA nylon; 210-denier CORDURA nylon7 totalAeroForm back panel with frame sheetNo1 lb., 8 oz.
Black Diamond Pursuit 15
100% recycled polyester8 totalFrameless foam back panelYes1 lb., 8 oz.
Osprey Tempest Pro 18
100D Nanofly UHMWPE nylon + 420HD nylon packcloth6 totalInjection-molded AirScape back panelYes1 lb., 14.4 oz.
Gregory Nano 22 Daypack
210-denier CryptoRip honeycomb nylon5 totalDie-cut foam back panelYes1 lb., 1.6 oz.
Cotopaxi Luzon 18 Del Dia100% repurposed ripstop nylon2 totalFramelessYes10.6 oz.
Gregory CitroJuno 30 210D/420D ripstop nylon6 totalFrameless foam back panelYes2 lbs., 1.4 oz.
Matador Freerain22 50D ripstop nylon, with 100D Robic wear panels4 totalFramelessNo10.6 oz.
Osprey Hikelite 18100D/420D recycled nylon4 totalAlloy wire frame, breathable mesh back panelYes1 lb., 8.7 oz.
Patagonia Terravia 28100% recycled nylon5 totalFrameless foam back panelYes1 lb., 12 oz.
Osprey Talon 22
210D/420D recycled ripstop nylon7 totalFrameless foam back panelYes2 lbs.
REI Co-op Flash 22 Daypack on Hike
From town to the trail, we saddled up these daypacks for the ultimate test; (photo/Miya Tsudome)

Why You Should Trust Us

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 2023.

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 North West. 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. 

The beauty of a daypack is in its absolute versatility, and we’ve used ours to tackle everything from single track to toting the laptop into the urban jungle. For this list, we looked at daypacks across the spectrum — from packable and travel-friendly rucksacks to full-featured hiking and riding packs — and sent them out for proving on bite-size adventures across the country.

Black Diamond Pursuit Hiking
Each backpack on this list was put through real-world tests by our trail-loving pros; (photo/Miya Tsudome)

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.

Pack Size

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. 

Arc'teryx Aerios 15 Daypack Outer Stuff Cord
While interior space is where you’ll stash most of your kit, don’t count out exterior lashing points; (photo/Miya Tsudome)

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.

Black Diamond Pursuit 15 Daypack on Hike
Bigger isn’t always better, and the Black Diamond Pursuit does a lot with the 15 L it’s got; (photo/Miya Tsudome)

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.

osprey hikelite 18L pack with jacket and day hiking essentials inside
The duration and intensity of your trip will help determine which pack size you should go with; (photo/Mary Murphy)

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 Citro 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.

Arc'teryx Aerios 15 Suspension Harness
The shoulder straps on the Arc’teryx Aerios 15 also feature zippered pockets and stretchy pouches in a running-vest style; (photo/Miya Tsudome)

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 15.

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.

the backpanel on the osprey hikelite 18L pack
The highly breathable, ventilated AirSpeed back panel of the Osprey Hikelite; (photo/Mary Murphy)

Materials

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 15 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.

REI Trail 25 Daypack on the Trail
Both of the REI Co-op packs on our list, the Flash 22 and Trail 25, are made from 100% recycled ripstop nylon; (photo/Miya Tsudome)

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.

Osprey Talon Earth 22 - Review
Osprey leads the pack when it comes to suspension systems, and their daypacks are no exception; (photo/Rebecca Parsons)

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.

a red daypack with a first aid kit, layer, water bottle, and wallet visible
A pack with enough room for the 10 essentials; (photo/Mary Murphy)

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 15, which frees up valuable side pocket space. Some of the more technical packs like the Arc’teryx Aerios 15 and the Black Diamond Pursuit 15 also have pouches on the front of their shoulder straps for water flasks or quick access to your phone or some snacks. 

REI Co-op Flash 22 Daypack Closure
The REI Co-op Flash 22 has a drawstring closure which makes for easy access, but not great weatherproofing; (photo/Miya Tsudome)

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.

Gregory Nano Daypack Hydration Pouch
Gregory’s H2O series is built around the hydration bladder, and makes for easy integration; (photo/Miya Tsudome)

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 15 is a pretty technical pack but lacks a hydration sleeve which is also something to keep in mind.

the author wearing a GearJunkie t-shirt, reaching for her hydration tube
Hydration bladder hoses route out of a port on the pack body, and mount to your shoulder straps for easy access; (photo/Mary Murphy)

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 Patagonia Terravia 28L, 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.

Arc'teryx Aerios 15 on Hike
Certain daypacks, like the Arc’teryx Aerios 15, come in both a Men’s and Women’s version, to better accommodate different shaped torsos; (photo/Miya Tsudome)

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.

FAQ

What is the best daypack?

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.

Black Diamond Pursuit 15 Daypack Carry
Got a technical day trip in mind? The Black Diamond Pursuit 15 is up for it; (photo/Miya Tsudome)
What is the difference between a backpack and a daypack?

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.

What size pack is good for day hiking?

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.

Salomon Trailblazer 20 Daypack
20-25 L is just about the sweet spot for three-season hiking day trips; (photo/Miya Tsudome)
What should be in a daypack for hiking?

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.

What should I look for when buying a hiking daypack?

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!

Subscribe Now

Sign up to receive GearJunkie content direct to your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Sign up to receive GearJunkie content direct to your inbox.