Oh, you’re going to love this. There is nothing — and I mean nothing — quite like being outside, properly outside, with everything you need on your back. Just you, and the trail, and the trees, and whatever the trees are doing.
I have, in my time, observed a great many people set out on day hikes. Some come prepared. Others come — well. Let us just say I have seen what happens when a person ten miles in realizes their backpack does not fit them. It is not, as they say, ideal. The trail does not, generally, care. The trees do not, generally, care. But I care, and so I would like you to be comfortable when you come out to us. When you come out, I mean. Outside.
The three packs below are ones I would happily send anyone off with, and the people who test these things for a living agree more often than not. They differ in their intent. The first is for the gentle hiker — the person whose hike is, by most standards, a walk with snacks. The second is for the more serious walker, the person who looks at a map and plans their elevation gain. The third is for those of us — and I include myself in this category, in a manner of speaking — who prefer to move lightly through the world, taking only what we need and leaving, in our wake, only what we leave.
A pack, of course, is only part of what carries you. Put something sensible on your feet — I have opinions, and so do the reviewers, on the walking shoes worth the miles. And if you like everything in its place before the trailhead, a set of packing cubes will keep your layers tidy inside any of these three. Small kindnesses to your future self, ten miles in.
You will not regret going. Bring water, tell someone your plan, and go while the light is good. The trees will welcome you. The trees always do.
At a glance
| N° | Pick | Category | Price | Sold at |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Osprey Daylite Plus | Best Everyday Daypack | $80 | REI |
| 02 | Osprey Talon 22 Pack — Men's | Best for Serious Hiking | $131 | REI |
| 03 | Deuter Speed Lite Pro 23 SL | Best Ultralight (Slim Fit) | $140 | REI |
Questions, anticipated
What size day hiking backpack do I need?
For most day hikes, 20 to 23 liters is plenty — room for water, layers, lunch, and the little things you will be glad you brought. Go smaller for a walk with snacks, and larger only if you carry camera gear or pack for others as well as yourself.
Do I really need a hip belt on a daypack?
For lighter loads, no — the Daylite Plus gets by on a simple webbing strap. Once you are carrying 15 pounds or more for a full day, a padded hip belt like the Talon's moves the weight onto your hips, and your shoulders will thank you many miles in.
Are the women-specific and SL fits only for women?
Not at all. The Deuter Speed Lite Pro 23 SL has a shorter back and a narrower harness, which suits many smaller-framed hikers regardless of who the label names. Fit is about your torso, not your gender.
Can these day packs work as travel carry-ons?
The Osprey Daylite Plus is the standout here — it is carry-on friendly and doubles as a work bag, which is why it turns up in so many airports. The Talon and the Speed Lite are trail-first, though either will happily ride along on a trip.
How should I pack a day hiking backpack?
Heavy things low and close to your back, water where you can reach it, and rain gear near the top. And do go — the trees are patient, but they do so enjoy the company.
