The 10 Best Hiking Daypacks of 2025

When you go hiking then whether it is a small hill nearby, a deep forest, or a big adventure in the mountains, a good daypack can make your trip much better. The best hiking daypacks in 2025 are made to carry more than just your water and snacks. They give you smart storage, are lightweight and comfortable, let air pass through, and help you stay comfortable all day long on different types of trails. This year, outdoor brands have improved a lot. Now, daypacks are made with strong, weather-resistant materials, better designs for your body, and even eco-friendly fabrics. Whether you like to hike with just the basics or carry things like a camera, jacket, snacks, and hiking sticks, there is a perfect daypack out there for you.

We tested many daypacks on rocky paths, in thick forests, and on mountain trails to bring you the best options. Our picks focus on what matters: comfort, strength, lightweight design, easy-to-use pockets, and overall style. We also examined special needs, such as running on trails, city use, and backpacks specifically designed for women. You can also check the reviews of Best Hiking Gear and Best Ultralight Backpacks, which are written and conducted by our team. This guide includes both affordable and high-end daypacks. No matter why you hike, exercise, photograph, or just for peace of mind, the best daypack is the one that fits well, carries your stuff easily, and feels so light you forget it’s even there.

The 10 Best Hiking Daypacks Review

When choosing a hiking daypack, you should think about comfort, size, weight, how well it fits your back, how easy it is to pack your things, and if it can handle tough weather. We picked the best bags for everyone, whether you hike just for fun or go on big outdoor adventures. Our top choice is the Osprey Talon 22L. It is light, fits your back nicely, and is great for both hiking and biking. If you want something low-cost, the Osprey Daylite Plus is a smart pick. It is simple and cheap, and you can even use it as a laptop bag for daily use. For tough and rocky paths, the Mystery Ranch Gallagator 20 is very strong and has quick zippers for easy access.

If you want a cheap bag that holds a lot, try the Venture Pal 35L. It is lightweight, foldable, and affordable. The Salomon Unisex Trailblazer 20 is best for runners and people who like to carry less. It fits close to your body and feels comfortable. For women, the CamelBak Women’s Fourteener 24 is great; it fits well and comes with a water pouch so you can stay hydrated. If you carry a lot of gear, go for the Mystery Ranch Coulee 30; it has more space and adjusts to your body. For people who travel, the Tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L is perfect. It opens like a suitcase but wears like a backpack, great for trips and weekends away.

Best Overall Daypack – Osprey Talon 22L

The Osprey Talon 22L is one of the best all-around hiking daypacks in 2025. It is made for people who love adventure, whether you are hiking, biking, or climbing. This bag is lightweight, so it won’t slow you down, and it hugs your back nicely, making it very comfortable to wear even for long hours. The back of the bag has a special AirScape panel that lets air flow through, so your back stays cool and dry. The shoulder straps and waist belt use BioStretch material, which means they move naturally with your body as you walk or ride. The Talon 22L also comes with very useful features. It has clips to hold your trekking poles, a separate sleeve for a water bladder, and a helmet holder using the LidLock system. These small things make a big difference when you’re on the trail.

The size (22 liters) is just right for carrying your daily hiking essentials like a jacket, water, snacks, phone, and first aid kit. There are several pockets to keep things organized, and a zippered pocket on the hip belt for quick access to small items. Even on tough paths or technical trails, this bag stays stable and close to your body, so you feel balanced and safe. The design is also smart and sporty, which many hikers like.

Best Budget Daypack – Osprey Daylite Plus

If you want a good-quality backpack that doesn’t cost too much, the Osprey Daylite Plus is a great choice. It’s lightweight, small in size, and made from recycled materials, which makes it good for the environment too. With a 20-liter capacity, it’s perfect for short hikes, day trips, city travel, or even everyday use like going to work or school. Inside the bag, there’s a special sleeve that can hold either a hydration pack (water pouch) or a laptop, so you can use it on trails or in the city. That makes this bag very flexible and useful for different needs. It has side pockets made of mesh to hold your water bottles and a front pocket where you can quickly stuff in a jacket or anything else you need in a hurry. The back panel lets air through, so your back stays cool and sweat-free even if you wear it for hours.

The Daylite Plus is also made to connect with other Osprey travel bags, so it’s a good add-on if you already use a bigger Osprey backpack. This makes it great for travelers who want a small extra bag for walking around. Whether you’re going from the office to a walking trail, or flying to a new place and then hiking a mountain, this bag is ready for it all. It’s easy to carry, well-designed, and strong enough for both city life and outdoor adventures.

Mystery Ranch Gallagator 20 Daypack

The Mystery Ranch Gallagator 20 is a strong and reliable hiking backpack made for people who love adventure and want something tough. It’s made with hard Cordura nylon fabric, which means it can handle rough trails, rocks, and scratches without tearing or wearing out. What makes this bag special is its 3-ZIP design. You don’t have to open it from the top like most bags. Instead, you can open it wide in the front and quickly take out what you need. This saves time and makes it super easy to use. Inside the backpack, there’s a hydration sleeve to hold your water pouch, a zip pocket at the top for small items, and straps inside to keep everything in place. It weighs about 2.1 pounds, which is a bit heavier than very simple bags, but that’s because it’s built to last a long time.

The shoulder straps are shaped to fit your body, and the harness gives you good support, even when walking on steep or rocky paths. It stays steady on your back and feels comfortable while hiking. This bag also looks nice with a clean and modern shape, and it works well in the city too. So, whether you’re hiking in the hills or going on a weekend adventure in town, it fits the job.

Best Buy on a Tight Budget – Venture Pal 35L

If you want a good hiking backpack at a low price, the Venture Pal 35L is one of the best choices in 2025. It gives you big features for a small cost. This backpack is very lightweight, only 0.7 pounds, and it is made from water-resistant nylon, so it won’t get wet easily in light rain. Even though it is light, it has 35 liters of space, which is a lot. You can pack clothes, snacks, water bottles, and more without feeling heavy or bulky. It also folds into a small pouch, so you can carry it in your suitcase or car. This makes it great for travelers, students, or people who love unplanned adventures. Even though it is cheap, it still comes with useful features. The shoulder straps have breathable mesh, so your shoulders stay cool. It also has a chest strap with a whistle for extra safety and side pockets for water bottles.

There are many zippered pockets, so you can keep your things neat and easy to find. The bottom of the bag is reinforced, so it doesn’t tear easily, and reflective strips help others see you in the dark. It doesn’t have a built-in frame or water system like expensive bags, but for under $30, it’s a great deal. It works well for light hiking, gym use, school, or even day trips. If you need a large, strong, and foldable backpack that doesn’t cost much, the Venture Pal 35L is a smart and practical pick.

Salomon Unisex Trailblazer 20

The Salomon Trailblazer 20 is a small, lightweight, and simple backpack made for outdoor lovers. It is perfect for hiking, running on trails, biking, or quick day trips. Weighing only 1.3 pounds, it is easy to carry and won’t feel heavy on your back. The size is 20 liters, which gives you enough room for water, snacks, a jacket, and other important items. The backpack fits your body well because of its padded back panel, chest strap, and slim waist belt. This helps keep the bag steady and comfortable, even when you’re moving fast. Even though it looks simple, it comes with smart features. There is a space inside to hold a water bladder, so you can drink water easily while hiking. It has a big pocket with a zipper to keep things safe, stretchy side pockets for water bottles, and a small top pocket for keys, sunglasses, or snacks.

The design works for both men and women and fits most body types. The soft and breathable mesh keeps your back cool and dry, even on hot or long adventures. It’s also easy to store when not in use. Overall, this is a great choice if you want a light, simple, and comfortable backpack for active outdoor use.

CamelBak Women’s Fourteener 24

The CamelBak Women’s Fourteener 24 is a hiking backpack made specially to fit a woman’s body. It is perfect for hikers who want to stay hydrated and comfortable on long walks. It comes with a high-quality 3-liter water bladder (CamelBak Crux), which gives 20% more water with each sip, so you don’t have to drink as often. This backpack is designed for women, with a shorter back length, curved shoulder straps, and a hip belt that fits well and supports the weight nicely. It holds 24 liters, which is great for long day hikes or outdoor trips.

The back of the bag has a special Air Support panel that lets air flow through to keep your back cool. There are pockets on the hip belt, a stretchy front pocket, and places to attach tools or gear. It even includes a rain cover to protect your stuff if it rains. The bag weighs about 2.4 pounds, so it’s not the lightest, but it’s very comfortable and helpful for women who hike in hot weather or for longer hours. If you want a pack that fits well and helps you stay hydrated, this is one of the best options.

Mystery Ranch Coulee 30 Backpack

If you are going on a long hike, carrying extra gear, or walking on mountain trails, the Mystery Ranch Coulee 30 is a strong and reliable backpack. It has a 30-liter capacity, which makes it bigger than a normal daypack but still light enough to carry easily. You can even use it for short overnight trips. One of its best features is the adjustable yoke system. This lets you change the backpack’s length so the backpack fits your body perfectly. It helps spread the weight evenly, making it more comfortable to carry.

The bag is made from tough Ripstop nylon, so it can handle rough use. It also has Mystery Ranch’s special 3-ZIP design, which makes it easy and fast to open the front and reach your gear inside. There are different sections to store your water bladder, tools, snacks, and other important items. On the outside, you get side stretch pockets, gear loops, and a hip belt with small zippered pockets for things you need quickly, like your phone or energy bars. The backpack weighs about 3 pounds, so it is heavier than simple bags, but it gives better support and more space. It is a great choice for hikers who carry more gear or for people like trail workers who need a backpack that can take a beating.

tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L

The Tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L is not a normal hiking backpack, and that is what makes it special. It is a mix of a travel bag and a hiking backpack. It has a suitcase-style opening, a padded laptop pocket, and adjustable shoulder and chest straps, so it works well both for city use and outdoor trips. With a 40-liter capacity, it is the biggest backpack on this list. It is perfect for weekend hiking trips, city adventures, or even air travel as a carry-on. The outside is water-resistant, and the inside is well-organized to help you pack your things neatly.

Inside, you will find compression straps to hold your items in place, a TSA-approved laptop sleeve for easy airport checks, and lots of zippered pockets for tech gadgets, clothes, or hiking gear. It does not support water bladders, but it still feels very comfortable thanks to the thick back padding and strong shoulder straps. The tomtoc 40L is a great pick for travelers, digital nomads, photographers, or anyone who wants one bag that works for both outdoor fun and city life.

The North Face Backpack

The North Face Borealis is a well-known and trusted backpack in the outdoor world. In 2025, it is still one of the most useful and flexible daypacks you can buy. It works great for both hiking trips and daily use in the city. It has a special FlexVent system, which includes soft shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a breathable lower back panel. All of this makes the bag very comfortable to wear, even for long hours. This backpack has a 28-liter capacity, which is enough for a full day’s hike or going to school or work. The main pocket holds bigger items, and the front pocket has an organizer for your phone, charger, pens, and small items. There’s also a soft laptop sleeve that fits up to a 15-inch laptop, water bottle pockets on the sides, and bungee cords on the outside to carry a jacket or sweater.

It also comes with a chest strap that has a whistle for safety and a removable waist belt for extra support. The bag weighs about 2.7 pounds, so it’s a little heavier than some hiking bags, but it’s very strong, well-designed, and long-lasting. The Borealis is a great choice for hikers, students, office workers, or anyone who needs one bag for both adventure and everyday life.

Maelstrom Hiking Backpack

The Maelstrom Hiking Backpack is a great option for beginner hikers or anyone looking for a budget-friendly backpack. It has a large 40-liter capacity, which means you can pack a lot, perfect for long day hikes, short overnight trips, or even travel. It is made from water-resistant ripstop nylon, so your gear stays safe in light rain. It also comes with a rain cover, which is a nice bonus at this low price. The backpack has a breathable mesh back panel to keep you cool, padded shoulder straps for comfort, and chest and waist belts that you can adjust for a better fit. It has several zippered pockets to help you organize your things. There are also side mesh pockets for water bottles, loops for trekking poles, and even an emergency whistle built into the strap.

Even though it doesn’t have expensive materials or a strong internal frame, it still works well for light to moderate loads and most trail conditions. At just 1.9 pounds, this backpack is very lightweight for its size. It’s a great choice for new hikers, students, or travelers who want a low-cost, all-purpose backpack that still performs well on the trail.

How We Tested Best Hiking Daypacks

• COMFORT

We assessed shoulder strap padding, back panel breathability, and overall ergonomic fit. Packs that naturally fit the shape of the body and reduce pressure on the shoulders and back received the highest scores. We paid close attention to how well each pack moved with the body, especially during longer hikes.

Adjustable torso lengths and hip belts added extra comfort by helping to shift the weight from the shoulders to the hips, making it easier to carry heavier loads. Packs with curved shoulder straps, ventilated mesh panels, and soft foam padding provided better airflow and reduced sweating on hot days.

• USER-FRIENDLINESS

We focused on how easy each backpack was to use in real hiking situations. This included things like how quickly you could grab your gear, how smooth the zippers felt, and how well the pockets were organized. Backpacks that allowed fast access to important items like snacks, rain jackets, or water scored the highest. We also looked at how the zippers worked when the bag was full or under pressure. Smooth zippers that didn’t get stuck were a big plus, especially when you’re wearing gloves or trying to open your pack in cold or dark conditions.

The layout of the compartments was another important factor. Packs with clearly arranged pockets, top or side access points, and external attachment loops make it easy to stay organized and find items without digging around.

• DURABILITY

We tested how strong and long-lasting each backpack is. Materials like ripstop nylon, Cordura® fabric, and reinforced stitching were used to check the toughness of the packs. We looked at how well they handled rough use, like being dragged across rocks, brushing against tree branches, or being packed and unpacked many times. Backpacks that didn’t tear, scratch easily, or lose shape scored higher in our tests. 

We also tested how well they held up in rainy or wet conditions. Packs that kept gear dry or had a built-in rain cover performed better. Strong zippers, buckles, and seams were also checked. If a zipper broke or a strap started to come loose during the test, that backpack lost points.

• ORGANIZATION

We carefully looked at how each backpack helps you keep your gear neat and easy to find. This included the number and layout of internal compartments, hydration sleeves, external mesh pockets, and gear attachment loops. Packs with well-thought-out storage made it easier to separate items like food, clothes, tools, and tech. We liked backpacks that had a hydration sleeve in a good spot, were easy to refill, and were stable when moving. 

Mesh side pockets were also useful for water bottles or things you need to grab quickly. Front stretch pockets and zippered pouches helped with quick storage of jackets or snacks.

• WEIGHT & COMPRESSIBILITY

We looked at how lightweight each backpack was and how easy it was to pack or store when not in use. Ultralight backpacks got high scores, but only if they also stayed strong and well-built. A super light bag is great, but not if it tears easily or loses shape when loaded. We gave extra points to backpacks that could compress down in size, making them great for travelers, minimalist hikers, or anyone needing a backup bag. 

Packs that folded into their own pocket or packed flat were especially useful for saving space in luggage or storing at home. At the same time, we made sure they still had enough support and structure to carry gear comfortably. A pack needs to feel balanced, even if it’s light.

Daypack Buying Advice

Types of Daypacks

1. Hiking Daypacks: Built for trail use with hydration sleeves, hip belts, and weather resistance.
2. Urban Daypacks: Often dual-purpose for work or school; less technical features.
3. Travel Backpacks: Offer large capacity, clamshell openings, and laptop compartments, best for city-to-trail versatility.

Fit and Sizing

Getting the right fit is one of the most important parts of choosing a backpack. A good backpack should sit comfortably against your back, not too high, not too low. If it fits well, it feels like it’s part of your body and won’t move around too much while you walk. We looked for packs with adjustable torso lengths, which let you change the height of the back panel to match your body size.

This helps improve comfort and makes carrying weight feel easier. Padded hip belts are another key feature that moves the load from your shoulders to your hips, which reduces pressure and strain during long hikes.

Weight: Fully Featured vs. Minimalist

1. Fully featured packs offer more pockets, structure, and comfort but are heavier.
2. Minimalist packs are light and fast but may lack support and extras.

Carrying Comfort: Hipbelt and Shoulder Straps

When you are hiking with a backpack, comfort matters a lot, especially if you are carrying water, snacks, clothes, or gear. The best hiking daypacks have padded and adjustable shoulder straps that fit smoothly over your shoulders without digging in or causing pain.

Just as important is a strong hip belt. A good load-bearing hip belt helps move the weight off your shoulders and onto your hips, where your body can carry it more easily. This reduces strain on your back and lets you hike longer without feeling tired or sore.

Daypack Frame Types

1. Frameless: Lightweight, packable, ideal for short hikes.
2. Framed: Use internal supports or rigid panels to distribute the load better for long hikes or heavier gear.

Ideal Size (Capacity)

1. 10–20L: Short hikes, minimalist carry
2. 20–30L: Standard day hiking
3. 30–40L: Long hikes, winter layers, or overnight trips

Back panel and Ventilation

When you are hiking, especially in warm weather, your back can get hot and sweaty. That is why good back panel ventilation is so important. The best backpacks have mesh and foam panels that allow air to flow between your back and the pack. This helps reduce sweat and keeps you feeling cooler and drier. Some top brands go a step further and use tensioned mesh systems or built-in airflow channels. 

These designs create a gap between your back and the bag, letting heat escape and fresh air move in. We gave extra points to backpacks that stayed comfortable and breathable during long hikes, especially in hot or humid conditions. A well-ventilated back panel makes a big difference on the trail, keeping you from feeling sticky and overheated.

Water Resistance

When you are hiking, the weather can change fast. That is why it is important to have a backpack that offers some level of water protection. We looked for packs made with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings, which help rainwater slide off the fabric instead of soaking in. Some backpacks also have sealed or water-resistant zippers, which stop water from leaking into the main compartments. Others include a built-in rain cover that you can quickly pull out and wrap over your pack during a storm. Water resistance is especially helpful if you’re caught in sudden rain, crossing wet areas, or hiking in humid climates. It keeps your clothes, electronics, and other gear dry and safe.

Hydration Compatibility

Staying hydrated on the trail is very important, especially during long hikes or hot weather. Most good hiking daypacks come with a special hydration sleeve inside. This sleeve is designed to hold a 2 to 3-liter water reservoir (also called a bladder). These packs also have a small opening or port that lets you run the drinking tube from the reservoir to your shoulder, so you can drink hands-free while walking, no need to stop or take off your bag.

We gave higher scores to packs with a well-placed hydration sleeve, easy-to-access hose ports, and clips to hold the tube in place. Some even have insulated sleeves to help keep your water cool.

Sustainability

More and more backpack brands are now focusing on protecting the environment. Many top-quality hiking daypacks are made with recycled materials, like fabric from old plastic bottles. Some also use PFC-free coatings, which avoid harmful chemicals that can pollute water and soil. We also looked for backpacks made with Bluesign-approved fabrics. This label means the materials were produced in a way that is safe for the planet, factory workers, and users.

Why Trust Outdoor Searcher

At Outdoor Searcher, we are a team of passionate hikers and gear lovers. Every product in this guide was either tested by us on real trails or carefully chosen based on trusted reviews, detailed specs, and the reputation of the brand. We always keep our reviews honest and independent, and we clearly share when links are affiliate links because our main goal is to help you choose the right gear, not just sell products. Whether you are new to hiking or an experienced backpacker, you can rely on our expert picks, real-life testing, and honest advice to guide you in the right direction.

Conclusion

The Best Hiking Daypacks of 2025 can make your hiking trip much better. It can help prevent back pain, keep your gear dry and organized, and make your hike more enjoyable. In 2025, top brands like Osprey, Salomon, Mystery Ranch, and CamelBak are offering backpacks that are more comfortable, lighter, and more useful than ever before. If you want the best overall choice, the Osprey Talon 22L gives a great mix of performance and comfort.

For those on a smaller budget, the Venture Pal 35L and Osprey Daylite Plus offer great quality at a low price. And if you need more room for travel or longer hikes, the tomtoc 40L and Maelstrom backpacks give you extra space without costing too much.No matter where you’re going a desert, forest, mountain, or city trail the right backpack should feel comfortable, carry your gear easily, and be so light you barely notice it. Pick the one that fits your needs, and get ready for your next adventure

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