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Ultralight Daypacks

8 Best Ultralight Daypacks 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

4Monster Hiking Daypack,Water Resistant Lightweight Packable Backpack for Travel Camping Outdoor (Blue, 16L)

4Monster Hiking Daypack,Water Resistant Lightweight Packable Backpack for Travel Camping Outdoor (Blue, 16L)

4Monster

9.9 score

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The 4Monster Hiking Daypack is designed to be an ultralight solution for travel, camping, and outdoor activities, with a capacity of 16 liters. Its standout feature is its extremely lightweight nature, weighing only 4 ounces, which makes it easy to carry and fold into a compact size that can fit into a pocket. Made from tear-resistant 30D nylon, the daypack promises durability against scratches from branches and stones, and its reinforced stitches enhance long-term use. The material is water-resistant, which offers protection for items like phones and cash in light rain, although it may not be suitable for heavy downpours.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,193
Capacity
Weight
Comfort

Most important from
7560 reviews

Capacity
The daypack's compact size is comparable to a mini soda can, yet it offers ample room for essentials like rain jackets, power banks, and souvenirs.
Weight
The 4Monster Hiking Daypack is impressively lightweight and folds into its own pocket, making it incredibly easy to pack and carry.
Comfort
While the straps are thin, the daypack remains comfortable for carrying lighter loads throughout the day.
Features
Perfect for travel, this daypack fits into any luggage nook and is ready for use at your destination.
Durability
Durable and water-resistant, the daypack is suitable for light hiking and travel, holding up well under various conditions.
Water Resistance
Durable and water-resistant, the daypack is suitable for light hiking and travel, holding up well under various conditions.
#2
9.8 score

Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack, Wave Blue

Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack, Wave Blue

Osprey

9.8 score

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The Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack in Wave Blue is a versatile option for those in need of an ultralight daypack. With a weight of just 1.29 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for day hikes, city commutes, or casual outings. The backpack's capacity is sufficient for everyday essentials, though it may not be suitable for longer trips that require more gear.

Rating
9.8
Capacity
Material
Comfort

Most important from
2894 reviews

Capacity
Lightweight and spacious, this bag is perfect for daily use, offering plenty of room for essentials without being bulky.
Material
Durability is a standout feature, with materials that hold up well despite being thin and lightweight.
Comfort
The Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack is incredibly comfortable from the first use, with a design that fits well and feels great on your back.
Features
The dual-use hydration pack/laptop sleeve and easy-access hydration tube hole make it perfect for both hiking and biking.
#3
9.5 score

Outlander Packable Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack-Orange-L

Outlander Packable Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack-Orange-L

Outlander

9.5 score

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The Outlander Packable Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack is a practical choice for anyone seeking an ultralight daypack. Weighing just 0.5 pounds, it is incredibly lightweight yet offers a substantial 33-liter capacity, making it roomy enough for various items. The backpack's material is a standout feature, made from highly rip and water-resistant nylon fabric, ensuring durability and protection against the elements. Additionally, stress points are reinforced with bar tacking to enhance longevity, and the use of durable 2-way SBS metal zippers adds to its robustness.

Rating
9.5
Weight
Material
Comfort

Most important from
14069 reviews

Weight
Ideal for long hikes and races, being super light, comfortable, and breathable while carrying essential gear.
Material
While the design remains excellent, recent material and construction issues have slightly affected its reliability.
Comfort
Ideal for long hikes and races, being super light, comfortable, and breathable while carrying essential gear.
Features
Compact and perfect for travel, fitting easily into luggage and providing a high-quality daypack when needed.
Durability
Sturdy and reliable even in demanding conditions like safaris, with strong zippers and a practical internal pocket for valuables.

Top 8 Best Ultralight Daypacks 2025 in the United States

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HYDAWAY

HYDAWAY Collapsible Backpack for Travel - 15L I Lightweight Packable Daypack for Backpacking, Work & Traveling I Adjustable, Foldable, Water Resistant Hiking Day Pack for Men, Women and Kids

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#1

Winner

9.9  score
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4Monster

4Monster Hiking Daypack,Water Resistant Lightweight Packable Backpack for Travel Camping Outdoor (Blue, 16L)

Capacity: 16 Liters
Weight: 4 ounces
Material: 30D nylon
Features: Main zipper, front zipper, two mesh
Durability: Tear-resistant, reinforced stitches
Water Resistance: Water-resistant

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Chosen by 1193 this week

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HYDAWAY

HYDAWAY Collapsible Backpack for Travel - 15L I Lightweight Packable Daypack for Backpacking, Work & Traveling I Adjustable, Foldable, Water Resistant Hiking Day Pack for Men, Women and Kids

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#2
9.8  score
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Osprey

Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack, Wave Blue

Weight: 1.29 pounds
Material: mesh-covered die-cut foam
Comfort: enhances comfort and ventilation
Durability: durable and well-constructed

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#3
9.5  score
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Outlander

Outlander Packable Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack-Orange-L

Capacity: 33 Liters
Weight: 0.5 pounds
Material: rip and water-resistant nylon
Features: multiple compartments, carabiner clip, 2-way zippers
Durability: reinforced with bar tacking, durable
Water Resistance: water-resistant

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#4
9.2  score
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Sea to Summit

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Ultralight Day Pack, 20-Liter, HighRise Grey

Capacity: 20 Liters
Weight: 2.5 ounces
Material: 30D siliconized Cordura Nylon
Comfort: ergonomic shoulder straps
Features: two-way zipper, webbing loops, stuff sack
Durability: reinforced bar-tacks at stress points
Water Resistance: light rain or splashes

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#5
8.9  score
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Osprey

Osprey Daylite Tote Pack, Black

Capacity: 20 Liters
Weight: 1.2 Pounds
Features: Dual stretch mesh pockets
Durability: Durable materials
Water Resistance: Basic water resistance

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6% OFF
#6
8.6  score
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Naturehike

Naturehike 18L Lightweight Hiking Backpack, Waterproof Camping Packable Backpack Ultralight for Travel, Airplane, Small Hiking Daypack for Adults, Black

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20% OFF
#7
8.3  score
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Gregory

Gregory Mountain Products Salvo 16 H2O Hiking Backpack

Capacity: 3 Liters
Weight: 1.82 Pounds
Material: 210D nylon
Comfort: Ventilated suspension, breathable harness, magnetic buckle
Features: 3L quick-dry reservoir, hipbelt pockets, straps
Durability: 210D nylon, water-resistant finish
Water Resistance: Water-resistant finish, no PFAS

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#8
8.0  score
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Patagonia

Patagonia Sport, Black, 39,3 cm x 26 cm x 20,3 cm

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11% OFF
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Buying Guide for the Best Ultralight Daypacks

Choosing the right ultralight daypack can make a significant difference in your outdoor adventures. These packs are designed to be lightweight and comfortable, making them ideal for day hikes, short trips, or even as a secondary pack for longer excursions. When selecting an ultralight daypack, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and enhance your overall experience.
CapacityCapacity refers to the volume of the daypack, usually measured in liters. This spec is crucial because it determines how much gear you can carry. For short hikes or minimalistic trips, a capacity of 10-20 liters is often sufficient. For longer day hikes or if you need to carry extra gear like layers, food, and water, you might want a pack with a capacity of 20-30 liters. Consider what you typically bring on your outings to choose the right capacity for you.
WeightWeight is the empty weight of the daypack itself. This is important because the lighter the pack, the less burden you carry, which can make a big difference over the course of a day. Ultralight daypacks typically weigh between 0.5 to 1.5 pounds. If you prioritize minimalism and speed, go for the lower end of this range. If you need more features or durability, you might opt for a slightly heavier pack.
MaterialThe material of the daypack affects its durability, weight, and water resistance. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and Dyneema. Nylon and polyester are durable and relatively lightweight, while Dyneema is extremely light and strong but can be more expensive. If you expect rough use or exposure to the elements, choose a more durable material. For fair-weather hikes, a lighter material might suffice.
ComfortComfort is determined by the design of the shoulder straps, back panel, and overall fit. Look for padded and adjustable shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and a design that distributes weight evenly. Some packs also have hip belts for added stability. If you plan on carrying heavier loads or hiking for long periods, prioritize comfort features. For shorter, lighter trips, you might be able to sacrifice some comfort for a lighter pack.
FeaturesFeatures can include pockets, hydration compatibility, attachment points, and more. These are important because they add functionality to your pack. For example, hydration compatibility allows you to use a water bladder, while multiple pockets help organize your gear. Think about what features are essential for your activities. If you need quick access to items, look for packs with multiple pockets. If you use a hydration system, ensure the pack is compatible.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the daypack can withstand wear and tear. This is influenced by the material and construction quality. A more durable pack will last longer and handle rough conditions better. If you frequently hike in rugged terrain or carry heavy loads, prioritize durability. For occasional, light use, you might opt for a less durable but lighter pack.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is the pack's ability to keep your gear dry in wet conditions. Some packs are made from water-resistant materials or come with a rain cover. This is important if you hike in areas with unpredictable weather. If you often encounter rain or wet conditions, choose a pack with good water resistance or a built-in rain cover. For dry climates, this might be less of a priority.

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