Hiking is a popular outdoor activity that allows us to connect with nature and enjoy breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re embarking on a day hike or a multi-day trek, having a reliable daypack is essential for a comfortable and organized hiking experience. In this article, we will explore the top 9 best daypacks specifically designed for hiking, taking into consideration important factors to help you make an informed decision.

Importance of a reliable daypack for hiking

Discuss the significance of a good daypack in terms of comfort, support, and weight distribution during hikes.
Highlight the role of a daypack in storing essential gear, hydration systems, and extra layers for varying weather conditions.
Emphasize the importance of durability and weather resistance to protect belongings on challenging terrains.

Factors to consider when choosing a hiking daypack

Capacity: Discuss the importance of selecting a daypack with an appropriate size to accommodate your hiking needs, such as day trips or overnight hikes.
Fit and comfort: Explain the significance of a properly fitting daypack with adjustable straps, padded back panels, and hip belts to ensure comfort and reduce strain on the body.
Organization and accessibility: Highlight the value of multiple compartments, pockets, and external attachment points for easy access and efficient organization of hiking essentials.
Suspension and ventilation: Discuss the benefits of a well-designed suspension system and breathable materials to enhance airflow and reduce sweating during long hikes.
Weight and packability: Address the significance of lightweight daypacks that can be easily folded or compressed for convenient storage and transportation.
Durability and weather resistance: Mention the importance of selecting a daypack made from durable materials and featuring weather-resistant coatings to withstand rugged conditions and protect belongings.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing the perfect daypack that will enhance your hiking experience and keep you well-prepared on the trails.

Review of the 9 Best Daypacks for Hiking 0f 2023

1: Gregory Baltoro 65

The Gregory Baltoro 65 is a high-end backpacking pack that is designed for comfort and durability. It is made from a durable and water-resistant fabric, and it has a number of features that make it ideal for long-distance backpacking trips.

Features and specifications

Capacity: 65 liters
Dimensions: 25.2″ x 15.0″ x 9.5″
Weight: 4.84 lbs.
Materials: 420D nylon ripstop with Duraflex hardware and YKK zippers
Features:
- Response A3 suspension system with an adjustable harness and hip belt
- H20 resistant WeatherShield hipbelt pocket with YKK AquaGuard® zipper
- Removable hydration sleeve converts into fast and light SideKick Daypack with shoulder harnesses and accessory pocket
- Custom fitted raincover included – stows in a quick access zippered pocket on underside of the top lid
- Top lid with dual zippered access
- Front stretch mesh pocket
- Side compression straps
- Sternum strap
- Load lifters
Price: $299

Pros

Comfortable suspension system
Durable materials
Plenty of storage space
Removable hydration sleeve
Rain cover included

Cons

Heavy
Expensive
Not as versatile as some other backpacks

Overall

The Gregory Baltoro 65 is a great backpack for serious backpackers who are looking for a comfortable and durable pack that can handle heavy loads. It is not the lightest or most affordable backpack on the market, but it offers a lot of features and benefits that make it worth the investment.

2: Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10

The Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10 is a trekking backpack that is designed for comfort and ventilation. It is made from a lightweight and durable fabric, and it has a number of features that make it ideal for long-distance trekking trips.

Features and specifications

Capacity: 50 liters + 10 liters extension
Dimensions: 27.5 x 16.5 x 10.5 inches
Weight: 3.65 lbs.
Materials: 210D HDPE Ripstop Polyamide with DWR coating
Features:
- Aircontact Lite back system with VariQuick back length adjustment
- Aircontact Lite hip fins with ECL padding
- Removable hydration sleeve
- Top lid with dual zippered access
- Front stretch mesh pocket
- Side compression straps
- Sternum strap
- Load lifters
Price: $299

Pros

Comfortable suspension system
Ventilation system
Durable materials
Plenty of storage space
Removable hydration sleeve
Rain cover included

Cons

Expensive
Not as lightweight as some other backpacks

Overall

The Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10 is a great backpack for serious trekkers who are looking for a comfortable, durable, and feature-rich pack. It is not the lightest or most affordable backpack on the market, but it offers a lot of benefits that make it worth the investment.

3: Patagonia Nine Trails 28L

The Patagonia Nine Trails 28L is a lightweight and durable daypack that is perfect for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. It is made from a durable 210 denier Cordura nylon ripstop fabric with a polyurethane coating and a durable water repellent (DWR) finish, making it water-resistant and abrasion-resistant. The pack has a main compartment with a U-shaped opening for easy access to your gear, as well as a front stash pocket, two side mesh pockets, and two hip belt pockets. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable for a comfortable fit, and the pack also has a sternum strap and load lifters to help distribute the weight evenly.

Features and specifications

Capacity: 28 liters
Dimensions: 21 x 10 x 6 inches
Weight: 2 pounds 3.3 ounces
Materials: 210 denier Cordura nylon ripstop with polyurethane coating and DWR finish
Features:
- Main compartment with U-shaped opening
- Front stash pocket
- Two side mesh pockets
- Two hip belt pockets
- Padded shoulder straps
- Sternum strap
- Load lifters
Price: $129

Pros

Lightweight and durable
Water-resistant and abrasion-resistant
Plenty of pockets for storing gear
Comfortable to wear
Affordable

Cons

The main compartment can be a bit small for larger items
The hip belt pockets are not very deep
The pack can be a bit bulky when full

Overall

The Patagonia Nine Trails 28L is a great all-around daypack that is perfect for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. It is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, and it has plenty of pockets for storing gear. The pack is also comfortable to wear, and it is affordable. If you are looking for a reliable and versatile daypack, the Patagonia Nine Trails 28L is a great option.

4: REI Co-op Flash 22

The REI Co-op Flash 22 is a lightweight and versatile daypack that is perfect for hiking, travel, and everyday use. It is made from a durable and water-resistant fabric, and it has a number of features that make it ideal for a variety of activities.

Features and specifications

Capacity: 22 liters
Dimensions: 21 x 10 x 6 inches
Weight: 14 ounces
Materials: 210D nylon ripstop with DWR coating
Features:
- Main compartment with U-shaped opening
- Front stash pocket
- Two side mesh pockets
- Two hip belt pockets
- Padded shoulder straps
- Sternum strap
- Load lifters
Price: $99

Pros

Lightweight and durable
Water-resistant
Plenty of pockets for storing gear
Comfortable to wear
Affordable

Cons

The main compartment can be a bit small for larger items
The hip belt pockets are not very deep
The pack can be a bit bulky when full

Overall

The REI Co-op Flash 22 is a great all-around daypack that is perfect for hiking, travel, and everyday use. It is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, and it has plenty of pockets for storing gear. The pack is also comfortable to wear, and it is affordable. If you are looking for a reliable and versatile daypack, the REI Co-op Flash 22 is a great option.

5: Thule AllTrail 25L

The Thule AllTrail 25L is a versatile and durable daypack that is perfect for hiking, travel, and everyday use. It is made from a durable and water-resistant fabric, and it has a number of features that make it ideal for a variety of activities.

Features and specifications

Capacity: 25 liters
Dimensions: 21 x 10 x 6 inches
Weight: 2 pounds
Materials: 420D Dobby Poly, 330D Ripstop Polyester
Features:
- Main compartment with U-shaped opening
- Front stash pocket
- Two side mesh pockets
- Two hip belt pockets
- Padded shoulder straps
- Sternum strap
- Load lifters
- Hydration sleeve
- Rain cover
Price: $129.95

Pros

Lightweight and durable
Water-resistant
Plenty of pockets for storing gear
Comfortable to wear
Affordable
Hydration sleeve included
Rain cover included

Cons

The main compartment can be a bit small for larger items
The hip belt pockets are not very deep
The pack can be a bit bulky when full

Overall

The Thule AllTrail 25L is a great all-around daypack that is perfect for hiking, travel, and everyday use. It is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, and it has plenty of pockets for storing gear. The pack is also comfortable to wear, and it is affordable. If you are looking for a reliable and versatile daypack, the Thule AllTrail 25L is a great option.

6: Black Diamond Nitro 22

The Black Diamond Nitro 22 is a lightweight and comfortable daypack that is perfect for hiking, climbing, and everyday use. It is made from a durable and water-resistant fabric, and it has a number of features that make it ideal for a variety of activities.

Features and specifications

Capacity: 22 liters
Dimensions: 21 x 10 x 6 inches
Weight: 1 pound 10 ounces
Materials: 210D nylon ripstop with DWR coating
Features:
- Main compartment with U-shaped opening
- Front stash pocket
- Two side mesh pockets
- Two hip belt pockets
- Padded shoulder straps
- Sternum strap
- Load lifters
- ReACTIV suspension system with high-flow OpenAir backpanel, shoulder straps and waistbelt
- External-access hydration sleeve
- Stretch-mesh side pockets

Pros

Lightweight and durable
Comfortable to wear
Plenty of pockets for storing gear
Water-resistant
ReACTIV suspension system provides excellent weight distribution
External-access hydration sleeve
Stretch-mesh side pockets

Cons

The main compartment can be a bit small for larger items
The hip belt pockets are not very deep
The pack can be a bit bulky when full

Overall

The Black Diamond Nitro 22 is a great all-around daypack that is perfect for hiking, climbing, and everyday use. It is lightweight, durable, comfortable, and has plenty of pockets for storing gear. The pack also features the ReACTIV suspension system, which provides excellent weight distribution. If you are looking for a reliable and versatile daypack, the Black Diamond Nitro 22 is a great option.

7: Mammut Trion Spine 50

The Mammut Trion Spine 50 is a versatile backpack that is perfect for hiking, trekking, and other outdoor activities. It has a capacity of 50 liters, making it a good size for carrying all of your essential gear. The pack is also lightweight and comfortable to wear, making it a great option for long days on the trail.

Features and specifications

Capacity: 50 liters
Dimensions: 27.5 x 15.7 x 10.2 inches
Weight: 3.3 pounds
Materials: 210D HDPE Ripstop Polyamide with DWR coating
Features:
- Active Spine suspension system
- Removable hydration sleeve
- Top lid with dual zippered access
- Front stretch mesh pocket
- Side compression straps
- Sternum strap
- Load lifters
- Ice axe loops
- Daisy chain

Pros

Lightweight and comfortable
Versatile and durable
Plenty of storage space
Active Spine suspension system provides excellent weight distribution
Removable hydration sleeve
Ice axe loops and daisy chain for added versatility

Cons

The pack can be a bit bulky when full
The hip belt pockets are not very deep
The price is on the higher end

Overall

The Mammut Trion Spine 50 is a great backpack for anyone looking for a versatile and comfortable pack for hiking, trekking, and other outdoor activities. It is lightweight, durable, and has plenty of storage space. The Active Spine suspension system provides excellent weight distribution, making it a great option for carrying heavy loads. The pack is also available in a variety of colors, so you can find one that matches your style.

8: Teton Sports Oasis 1100

The Teton Sports Oasis 1100 is a versatile backpack that is perfect for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. It has a capacity of 1100 liters, making it a good size for carrying all of your essential gear. The pack is also lightweight and comfortable to wear, making it a great option for long days on the trail.

Features and specifications

Capacity: 1100 liters
Dimensions: 30 x 18 x 10 inches
Weight: 4.4 pounds
Materials: 600D polyester with a PU coating
Features:
- Airflow suspension system
- Removable hydration sleeve
- Top lid with dual zippered access
- Front stretch mesh pocket
- Side compression straps
- Sternum strap
- Load lifters
- Ice axe loops
- Daisy chain

Pros

Lightweight and comfortable
Versatile and durable
Plenty of storage space
Airflow suspension system provides excellent weight distribution
Removable hydration sleeve
Ice axe loops and daisy chain for added versatility

Cons

The pack can be a bit bulky when full
The hip belt pockets are not very deep
The price is on the higher end

Overall

The Teton Sports Oasis 1100 is a great backpack for anyone looking for a versatile and comfortable pack for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. It is lightweight, durable, and has plenty of storage space. The Airflow suspension system provides excellent weight distribution, making it a great option for carrying heavy loads. The pack is also available in a variety of colors, so you can find one that matches your style.

9: Osprey Atmos AG 65

The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a high-end backpacking backpack that is designed for comfort and ventilation. It is made from a durable and water-resistant fabric, and it has a number of features that make it ideal for long-distance backpacking trips.

Features and specifications

Capacity: 65 liters
Dimensions: 29 x 17 x 11 inches
Weight: 4.2 pounds
Materials: 210D HDPE Ripstop Polyamide with DWR coating
Features:
- AntiGravity suspension system with VariQuick back length adjustment
- Airspeed mesh back panel
- Removable hydration sleeve
- Top lid with dual zippered access
- Front stretch mesh pocket
- Side compression straps
- Sternum strap
- Load lifters
- Ice axe loops
- Daisy chain
- Rain cover included

Pros

Comfortable suspension system
Excellent ventilation
Durable materials
Plenty of storage space
Removable hydration sleeve
Rain cover included

Cons

Expensive
Not as lightweight as some other backpacks

Overall

The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a great backpack for serious backpackers who are looking for a comfortable, durable, and feature-rich pack. It is not the lightest or most affordable backpack on the market, but it offers a lot of benefits that make it worth the investment.

Comparison Table

Here is a comparison table of the 9 best daypacks

Backpack	Capacity	Dimensions	Weight	Suspension System	Materials
Gregory Baltoro 65	65 liters	29 x 17 x 11 inches	4.2 pounds	Response A3 Suspension	210D HDPE Ripstop Polyamide with DWR coating
Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10	50 liters	27.5 x 15.7 x 10.2 inches	3.3 pounds	Aircontact Lite	210D HDPE Ripstop Polyamide with DWR coating
Patagonia Nine Trails 28L	28 liters	21 x 11 x 7 inches	2 pounds	N/A	210D nylon ripstop with DWR coating
REI Co-op Flash 22	22 liters	21 x 10 x 6 inches	14 ounces	N/A	210D nylon ripstop with DWR coating
Thule AllTrail 25L	25 liters	21 x 10 x 6 inches	2 pounds	N/A	420D Dobby Poly, 330D Ripstop Polyester
Black Diamond Nitro 22	22 liters	21 x 10 x 6 inches	1 pound 10 ounces	SwingArm shoulder straps	210D nylon ripstop with DWR coating
Mammut Trion Spine 50	50 liters	27.5 x 15.7 x 10.2 inches	3.3 pounds	Active Spine Technology	210D HDPE Ripstop Polyamide with DWR coating
Teton Sports Oasis 1100	1100 liters	30 x 18 x 10 inches	4.4 pounds	N/A	600D polyester with a PU coating
Osprey Atmos AG 65	65 liters	29 x 17 x 11 inches	4.2 pounds	Anti-Gravity	210D HDPE Ripstop Polyamide with DWR coating

As you can see, there is a wide range of capacities, dimensions, weights, and materials available for daypacks. The best pack for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

If you are looking for a pack that can carry a lot of gear, then the Gregory Baltoro 65 or the Mammut Trion Spine 50 are great options. If you are looking for a lightweight and portable pack, then the REI Co-op Flash 22 or the Thule AllTrail 25L are good choices. And if you are looking for a pack that is made from durable materials, then the Osprey Atmos AG 65 or the Teton Sports Oasis 1100 are great options.

398730 26161 XL 1 — Image by Outdoorgearlab

Conclusion

In this comprehensive review, we have explored the top 9 best daypacks for hiking in 2023. These daypacks have been carefully selected based on their features, specifications, and overall performance in the hiking community.

From the spacious and feature-rich Gregory Baltoro 65 and Osprey Atmos AG 65 to the lightweight and versatile Patagonia Nine Trails 28L, each daypack offers unique benefits tailored to different hiking preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize comfort, organization, durability, or affordability, there is a daypack on this list to suit your requirements.

The Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10 and Thule AllTrail 25L strike a balance between capacity and weight, making them suitable for those seeking a versatile daypack with sufficient storage space. The Mammut Trion Spine 50 and Black Diamond Nitro 22 offer innovative suspension systems for enhanced stability and ergonomics during hikes.

For budget-conscious hikers, the REI Co-op Flash 22 and Teton Sports Oasis 1100 provide cost-effective options without compromising functionality. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line Osprey Atmos AG 65 offers exceptional comfort and adjustability for hikers who prioritize a customized fit.

By considering your specific hiking requirements and personal preferences, you can confidently choose a daypack that will enhance your outdoor experiences and keep your gear organized and easily accessible.

With any of these top 9 daypacks, you can embark on your hiking adventures well-prepared and enjoy the beauty of nature with comfort and convenience.