8 Best Day Hiking Backpack – A Comprehensive Review

Have you ever been outside on a nice day and felt confused about which backpack to pick for a hike? It’s like being in a big store with lots of backpacks and not knowing which one is right for you. That’s alright, we’ve all been there. Choosing the best day hiking backpack can be tricky.

But don’t worry! We are available to assist you in solving it. We promise to make it enjoyable and easy to grasp. Whether you’re someone who hikes a lot or someone just starting, we’ll guide you through the best daypacks 2024 so you can find the one that’s just right for you.

Grab your stuff, and let’s go on this adventure together. In this article, we’ll show you the 8 best day hiking backpack that will make you the champion of the trails. Let’s start the backpack party!

8 Best Day Hiking Backpack – Our Best Picks

1. Osprey Talon 22L Hiking Backpack – Overall Best Day Hiking Backpack
2. Osprey Stratos 34L Hiking Backpack – Best Pack for Day Hikes
3. Osprey Daylite Everyday Backpack – Spacious Backpack
4. Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack – Best Budget Backpack
5. Gregory Zulu 30 Md/Lg – High Capacity Design
6. Sea To Summit Day Pack – Lightweight Backpack
7. 4Monster Hiking Daypack – Water Resistant Backpack
8. Salomon Trailblazer 20 Backpack – Economically Best Day Hiking Backpack

1. Osprey Talon 22L Hiking Backpack – Overall Best Day Hiking Backpack

The Osprey Talon 22L Hiking Backpack is like the superhero of day hiking packs – and it’s not just us saying it, but the trails agree! This Osprey creation is a real gem and proudly ranks at the top of our list. What makes it so fantastic? Well, let’s unravel the magic.

First off, this backpack is versatile. It adapts to your needs like a shape-shifter, with a sleek and flexible design. You won’t believe it’s a 22L pack – it feels like it’s from the future, carrying some cool features. The comfort level is similar to a comfortable blanket for your back, making it an ideal companion for any excursion.

Whether you’re a mountain conqueror or a simple nature stroller, the Osprey Talon 22L has your back – literally. Its lightweight, thin, padded hip belt keeps your load secure and steady. It’s like having a dependable buddy who doesn’t weigh you down, even on the curvy paths.

This backpack is your all-weather friend, handling your essentials like a pro. For three-season use, the Talon is the buddy you can rely on – no holding back, just smooth sailing.

Hold on, there is more! This isn’t just any bag; it’s loaded with extras. It includes an inside padded laptop compartment, two zipped hip belt pockets, and a blankie light attachment for those surprise moonlight outings. With six color options and availability in all sizes, it’s like picking flavors for your adventure.

Pros and Cons

2. Osprey Stratos 34L Hiking Backpack – Best Pack for Day Hikes

Osprey continues to excel in the world of backpacks, and their latest addition is the Osprey Stratos 34L Hiking Backpack. It has definitely caught our eye. It is marketed as the ideal pack for day hikes and brief overnight adventures; it’s a compact marvel that delivers exceptional comfort, even when carrying heavier loads.

The Stratos 34L is akin to Mary Poppins’ bag – compact yet surprisingly roomy. Featuring a panel-loader design, it reveals an array of compartments in different sizes, making organization a breeze. This backpack is your organizational maestro, ensuring everything has its snug spot.

What makes the Stratos stand out is its Airspeed suspension, like a magic carpet for your back. The mesh back panel adjusts itself to your every movement, ensuring comfort is never compromised. Moreover, the Padded straps and a hip belt add an extra layer of comfort, turning your hike into a walk in the park.

This backpack is like a Swiss Army knife, equipped with attachments for all your needs. With this backpack, the Osprey seems to have considered every possibility with features like rain covers, pole straps, and detachable sleeping pad straps.

Pros and Cons

3. Osprey Daylite Everyday Backpack – Spacious Backpack

The Osprey Daylite Everyday Backpack is a dream come true for those seeking a roomy yet lightweight companion for their daily adventures. This backpack boasts features that cater to convenience and comfort, making it a standout choice for various reasons.

Weighing in at a mere 16 ounces, the Daylite lives up to its name – it won’t burden you with unnecessary weight. Its streamlined design is like a stealthy sidekick, blending seamlessly into your day without drawing unnecessary attention.

Furthermore, the 3D mesh on the shoulder straps is a hero against moisture, ensuring you stay cool and dry. While the hip belt may seem unnecessary for light loads, it becomes a valuable asset when running or jogging with the pack. The back panel design not only adds comfort but also provides ventilation, a welcome feature in hot and humid climates.

The organization is a strong suit of the Daylite. The large panel loading main compartment makes reaching your belongings a breeze, while dual stretch mesh side pockets offer extra storage for water bottles or snacks. The multi-function interior sleeve is a thoughtful addition, serving as a spot for your hydration reservoir or tablet.

Pros and Cons

4. Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack – Best Budget Backpack

The Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack stands out as a triple threat: stylish, comfortable, and budget-friendly. It seamlessly combines the functionality of a hiking daypack with the practicality of an everyday or travel laptop bag, making it the ideal choice for those looking for versatility in one sleek package.

Organization is a highlight of the Daylite Plus. Five external pockets offer secure spaces for water bottles and small items. It ensures everything stays organized and is easily accessible on the go.

Moreover, the internal layout is impressive, providing smart and simple pockets that transition effortlessly from the wilderness to the workplace. The internal, padded sleeve fits up to a 13-inch laptop or a 2-liter hydration pouch, catering to both work and adventure needs.

Known for their comfort-focused designs, Osprey delivers again with the Daylite Plus. Its suspensions are carefully crafted for comfort. Thin yet contoured shoulder straps and a breathable mesh-over-foam back panel ensure a comfortable fit, even on extended journeys.

Efficiency and design take center stage, with storage options tailored to each season. The purpose-driven build, featuring an internal hydration sleeve and a 20-liter capacity that feels larger than life, caters to various exploration needs. Whether trekking the high country or exploring the neighborhood, this backpack proves to be a reliable companion for all.

Pros and Cons

5. Gregory Zulu 30 Md/Lg – High Capacity Design

The Gregory Zulu 30 Md/Lg proves itself as a heavyweight champion in the technical daypacks. This Gregory daypack excels in both capacity and design, catering to those in search of comfort during longer hikes or when dealing with bulkier gear. The Zulu doesn’t just meet expectations; it surpasses them.

One standout feature is the Zulu’s full suspension system, designed to handle heavier loads with ease. What truly sets it unique is the flexible torso length, which allows for up to 3.5 inches of customization. This means that regardless of your body size, achieving a personalized and comfortable fit is a breeze, ensuring optimal weight distribution.

Comfort is a priority with the Zulu, thanks to its lightweight internal frame and generously padded hipbelt and shoulder pads. Ventilation is also prioritized, keeping your back cool even in scorching temperatures. The addition of nylon cinch straps secures your bottles, allowing convenient on-the-go hydration.

Furthermore, with seven external pockets, including a giant U-zip at the top, the Zulu offers accessibility and organization. The dedicated water bladder pocket, compatible with most hydration pouches, adds to its functional design. A softer back panel and the included rain cover enhance adaptability in various conditions.

However, Zulu’s high capacity comes with a trade-off: weight. Weighing just over three pounds, it’s among the heaviest in its class. Yet, this weight is justified by its exceptional capacity, adjustable features, and robust set of attributes.

Pros and Cons

6. Sea To Summit Day Pack – Lightweight Backpack

The Sea to Summit Day Pack proves itself as a lightweight marvel, skillfully combining portability and durability. With a 20-liter capacity, this daypack is a featherweight contender, weighing less than three ounces and compacting down to the size of a tennis ball—perfect for those on-the-go adventures.

It is crafted from robust and water-resistant 30D siliconized Cordura Nylon, reinforced with bar-tacks. The Sea to Summit Day Pack is a testament to resilience. The straps, cleverly made from the same material as the bag, feature ½ inch-adjustable nylon counterparts. Surprisingly sturdy, these straps not only distribute weight effectively but also allow easy on-the-go adjustments, effortlessly shifting the pack to your preferred height.

The design features don’t end there: a two-way zipper closure ensures accessibility, ergonomic shoulder straps enhance comfort, and webbing loops provide a convenient spot for attaching a bike light. This daypack seamlessly fits into various scenarios, from travel and grocery runs to cycling and peak bagging.

What adds to its appeal is the thoughtful inclusion of an attached stuff sack and a convenient aluminum carabiner, weighing a mere 2.5 ounces. The Sea To Summit Day Pack doesn’t just prioritize function but also adds a touch of style, available in six vibrant color combinations to suit your taste.

Pros and Cons

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for a lightweight, versatile companion that doesn’t compromise on durability, the Sea To Summit Day Pack is the best day hiking backpack. Whether you’re heading out on spontaneous adventures or tackling daily tasks, this pack proves that big things indeed come in small, lightweight packages.

7. 4Monster Hiking Daypack – Water Resistant Backpack

The 4Monster Hiking Daypack is a lightweight champion. It’s light, easy to carry, and tough. It only weighs 4 ounces, which is about half the weight of an iPhone. You can fold it up like a wallet and put it in your pocket for adventures on the go.

This daypack is made from material that resists water, and it has strong zippers. So, when it rains unexpectedly, your phone, money, and other important things stay dry and safe. It’s like having reliable rain protection.

The 4Monster daypack is tough because it’s made from tear-resistant 30D nylon. It can handle branches and stones, protecting what’s inside. Also, every stitch is reinforced for long-lasting use. This backpack is built to last.

When it comes to space, the 4Monster daypack doesn’t let you down. When you unfold it, there’s plenty of space for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and day trips, as well as shopping. It contains a main zipper pocket, an exterior zipper pocket, and two mesh side pockets for a clean and ordered appearance.

Moreover, there’s also a padded sleeve in the main pocket to keep your laptop safe. The front pocket is great for smaller things like your phone or wallet, and the mesh side pockets are perfect for water bottles or loose items.

Pros and Cons

8. Salomon Trailblazer 20 Backpack – Economically Best Day Hiking Backpack

The Salomon Trailblazer 20 Backpack is a versatile and budget-friendly choice for your daily activities. This 20 liter pack is perfect for biking to work, going to the gym, running errands, or enjoying a day hike. It’s an all-around backpack, reliable for various purposes.

The Trailblazer 20 is designed for simplicity and has one main compartment and stretchy side compartments for water bottles or extra items. What makes it unique is the waist belt with its zip pocket, a rare feature in smaller packs. Unlike most simple, unpadded waist belts, this one adds versatility while keeping your comfort in mind.

The hanging computer sleeve is a considerate addition, offering storage and extra protection against shocks. Additional loops allow you to attach small accessories outside, making the pack even more functional. With its 20-liter volume, it provides enough space without unnecessary bulk for different activities.

Moreover, comfort is a standout feature of the Trailblazer. The padded back system, belt, and shoulder strap form a comfortable harness that precisely fits your body, making it suited for a wide range of activities. Whether you’re on a local day hike, a short bike ride, or navigating through town, this backpack proves its value.

Pros and Cons

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

So, there you have it—the best day hiking backpack that makes your adventures better! From the fancy Osprey Talon 22L to the friendly Salomon Trailblazer 20, these backpack buddies are ready for your trips. They’re not just bags; they’re like your adventure sidekicks, helping you carry your stuff comfortably.

Whether you’re going for a short hike or just exploring, these backpacks are there for you. With features like lots of pockets, comfy straps, and even a special pocket for your water bottle, they’re like magic bags for happy hiking.

So, grab your favorite backpack, hit the trail, and make every hike a fantastic journey with your trusty companion by your side! Happy hiking!