Picking the right backpack makes a huge difference for your hikes or treks. I look for lightweight gear that’s easy to carry. The best lightweight backpacks hold everything you need like water, snacks, and layers. They make sure you’re comfortable all day.
We’ve updated our guide with cool new backpacks. We added the Arc’teryx Aerios 35 and REI Trail 40 because they’ve gotten even better. The Osprey Sportlite 25 is great for plus-size support. And the Osprey Talon 22 / Tempest 20 remains a top pick for its versatility.
This guide will show what to look for in a lightweight backpack. We’ll cover top picks for daily use, budget options, and packs for any adventure. Millions hike every year, so getting the best gear matters. Ready to find out which backpacks are best for lightweight trekking?
Top Features to Look for in a Lightweight Backpack
Finding the right lightweight backpack means looking at important features. They help you pick the best one for short or long hikes. Pay attention to these aspects:
Capacity and Weight
Lightweight backpacks seem perfect between 15 to 30 liters for day trips. Take the Gossamer Gear Vagabond. It has 17 liters space and weighs only 5.9 oz (167.26g), great for quick hikes. For more space, the Waymark Gear Mile holds 28 liters and is 16 oz (453.59g).
Keeping a balance of capacity and weight matters for longer journeys. Usually, a pack from 2 to 3 lbs is enough when carrying lots of gear. For example, the Volpi Ultralight 40 fits 45 liters but is only 13.4 oz (379.88g). It shows bigger packs can still be light.
Comfort and Support
Daypack comfort, especially on long trails, relies on key features. Elements like a padded hip belt, breathable back, and adjustable lengths make a difference. Backpacks with mesh back panels allow air flow. Load lifters and chest straps improve load balance and stability.
Look for adjustable backpack features for more comfort. These can be changing hip belts, lids, straps, and different sizes for a perfect fit. The Packback Soolite has these features, ensuring comfort and a personal fit.
Durability and Material
Durability is crucial, with many backpacks using strong, eco-friendly materials. Products like the Gossamer Gear Kumo are made to last. It’s 18.5 oz (524.46g) and holds up to 36 liters, combining durability with a light design.
The lifespan of your backpack depends on its materials and how it’s made. The Waymark Gear Dark Sky, for example, stands up to various trail challenges. It remains durable without being heavy.
Best Overall Daypack: Osprey Talon 22 / Tempest 20
Osprey Talon 22 and Tempest 20 easily win as the best hiking daypacks. They balance comfort, weight, and storage just right. The Talon 22 is a bit heavier at 0.75kg compared to the Tempest 20 at 0.70kg. Both can carry 20-22 liters, making them great for day trips or longer adventures.
The Talon’s Airscape backpanel gives amazing ventilation and support. The Tempest 20 is tailored for women, with a special harness and fitting. Both packs offer plenty of room for your stuff, whether you’re hiking, on a city break, or commuting.
What sets the Talon series apart is its use in many sports. They’re perfect for trails, city exploration, or going to work. The hipbelt and mesh backpanel add comfort for those longer journeys.
To sum it up, for a backpack that’s great in many situations, choose the Osprey Talon 22 or Tempest 20. They’re designed thoughtfully, with features that meet various needs. They’re the top pick for those who love the outdoors or need a day-to-day bag.
Budget-Friendly Options for Day Hikes
You don’t have to spend a lot for a good hiking backpack. There are affordable options that offer both quality and function. This is great news for those sticking to a budget.
REI Co-op Flash 22
The REI Co-op Flash 22 is a great deal at $60. It’s super light, weighing only 14 ounces. Even though it’s simple, it has everything you need like a frameless design. This keeps it light but still provides enough room for what you need. It can carry 18-22 liters, so it’s the right size and easy to carry.
Osprey Daylite Plus
The Osprey Daylite Plus is affordable and versatile. It’s ideal for city or trail with its 20-liter capacity. It works with hydration systems and can attach to bigger bags. And it’s durable yet light and looks good too.
These backpacks are both great deals. They perform well but won’t empty your wallet. This means you can prepare for your hike without losing out on quality.
Best Lightweight Backpacks for Hiking
Brands like Gossamer Gear and Pa’lante are leading the way in lightweight backpacks for hiking. They provide ultralight backpacks with capacities from 30 to 115 liters. These packs are great for day trips and longer hikes, as they balance lightness and usefulness.
These backpacks feature water resistance, easy-to-reach pockets, and straps you can adjust. They weigh about 1 lb, 15 oz to 3 lbs, 15 oz, so they’re easy to carry on hikes. The materials, such as DCH50, Dyneema Gridstop, and 210-denier high-tenacity nylon, are both durable and sturdy. There are frameless models for lighter loads and sturdier packs for up to 30 pounds.
The cost of these ultralight backpacks ranges from $160 to $649. This makes them affordable for many hikers. The REI Co-op Flash Air 50, ULA Equipment Ultra Circuit, and Hyperlite Mountain Gear Contour 35 are notable picks from recent tests. Our testers, with over 15,000 miles of hiking experience, ensure these reviews are trustworthy.
They tested backpacks by hiking 10 miles or more each day across different body types. They checked the backpacks for fit, ease of carrying, and how well they pack items. This ensures that the backpacks meet the needs of various hikers.
The Palante Desert is the top pick overall, with a 37-liter space and weighing only 1 lb, 3.4 oz. It’s a great value at $270. The Black Diamond Betalight 45 is the lightest option at 1 lb, 15 oz, costs $400, and holds 57 liters. For long hikes, the Outdoor Vitals CS40 Ultra is advised, holding up to 48 liters at 1 lb, 12 oz for $368.
Today, ultralight backpacks are better than ever, offering performance, strength, and the ability to customize. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking for the best pack for the trail, there’s a perfect choice for everyone’s hiking needs.
Multi-Use Packs for Both Day Hikes and Long Treks
If you love hiking like I do, you need gear that works well for both short and long trips. I’ve found some great hiking packs that are perfect for any kind of adventure.
Osprey Stratos 36 / Sirrus 36
The Osprey Stratos 36 and Sirrus 36 stand out for their comfort and flexibility. They have a strong suspension system that can carry heavy loads. This makes them great for several days out in the wilderness.
They also have lots of pockets, a rain cover, and enough room for both day trips and overnight stays.
Gregory Citro 24 H20 / Juno 24 H20
Need to keep hydrated and organized on the trail? The Gregory Citro 24 H20 and Juno 24 H20 are your best bets. They have built-in hydration systems to keep you watered all day. Plus, their many pockets help you keep your gear in order.
They’re great hiking packs for any adventure.
Black Diamond Distance 15
The Black Diamond Distance 15 is perfect for those who like to hike fast and light. It’s made for intense mountain trips and has just enough room for your essentials. Its sleek design is ideal for both quick day hikes and challenging journeys.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lightweight backpack makes your hiking better. It doesn’t matter if you’re going for a short hike or a long trek. Look for comfort, capacity, and durability in backpacks. Options from Osprey, REI, and Gregory are great for all needs and budgets.
We explored various backpacks, including budget and multi-use ones. The REI Co-op Flash 22 and Osprey Stratos 36 are great examples. They show that you don’t have to spend a lot for quality gear. It’s all about matching what you need with what the backpack offers.
Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra and Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L highlight the benefits of light packs. They weigh 21.4 oz and 30.1 oz, making them perfect for long trips. You can enjoy the comfort of the Osprey Exos Pro 55L or the sturdiness of the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest.
The best backpack fits well, holds your items, and matches your hiking style. Picking the right one means easier and more fun hikes. You’ll carry everything you need without any trouble. Enjoy your hiking adventures!
