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A great daypack makes it easy to keep all your essentials with you, whether going on an adventure, to the gym, or to work. We look for functional packs with useful features, and prioritize comfort on the trail.
We purchased and tested the most in-demand daypacks on the market today for our team to evaluate. Collectively, we hiked hundreds of miles across rugged terrain, gentle rolling paths, and urban jungles to assess each pack's comfort, versatility, and ease of use. At home, we took measurements to determine their weight-to-volume ratios and put them through a wet test to determine their water resistance.
Over the past decade, our team has tested over 90 daypacks, and this review focuses on unisex models. We love the Gregory Zulu 24 for its incredible comfort and breathability. Another favorite is the Osprey Sportlite 25. This lightweight pack features well-designed pockets to organize your gear, an innovative external bladder sleeve, and a comfortable fit that rivals more expensive options.
Those looking for a great deal should check out the REI Co-op Flash 22, a longtime REI favorite that offers a lightweight and affordable way to carry your day gear.
Some manufacturers make women's specific packs. These packs generally have narrower set shoulder straps, shorter back panels, and different colorways. We have found that torso size impacts a pack's fit and that women's specific packs don't always fit women best, and therefore, we encourage you to try on a variety of packs, regardless of the gender label.
Editor's Note: We updated our daypack review on November 18, 2025, to include new models from Arc'teryx, Gregory, and Osprey.
For day hikes, where comfort and ventilation are a priority, the Gregory Zulu 24 is our pack of choice. This is one of the most comfortable packs we've ever tried. The VaporSpan backpanel keeps the pack off your back and provides incredible breathability, keeping you cool on hot days. The Zulu features a wide hip belt, thickly padded shoulder straps, and an unobtrusive wire frame that supports heavier loads well, without sagging or putting pressure on the shoulders and back. “With 24 liters of space, I could easily carry everything I needed for a day hike without worrying about where everything would fit,” our tester said. The hip belt pockets are large and wrap towards the front of the torso, making them easy to access. On days when the pack is serving double duty, the main compartment has plenty of space for a laptop, clothing, and other items, while the front zip pocket is good for cables. We found it quite durable, too: one member of our test team has hiked and bushwacked with it for 11 months, and the pack's only signs of wear are cosmetic scuffs.
SPECIFICATIONS
Advertised Volume
24 L
Measured Weight
36.8oz
Weight per Liter
1.53oz/L
Back Construction
VaporSpan ventilated back panel
Hydration Compatibility
Interior hydration sleeve with Speedclip
We appreciate the thoughtful details such as large, reinforced zipper pulls, an integrated hydration hose clip, and a U-shaped opening for the main compartment. The hydration hose opening in the top of the pack is quite large, and we can easily thread our hose with the mouthpiece attached through it. The Speedclip bladder holder is easy to use; however, it does not work with all brands of bladders because the plastic is a tad too thick. Really, we have very few gripes about this pack. We especially like it for hikes longer than 2 hours or when we're carrying more than 12 pounds of gear and water. If you prioritize comfort, ventilation, and appreciate a pack that supports loads well, this is your go-to pack. If you need something with a larger capacity, we recommend the REI Co-op Traverse 35, which is large enough to use as an overnight backpack.
The Zulu is our go-to pack for long, technical hikes or those that require a heavy load. It's incredibly comfortable and supports loads very well. We appreciate how the AirScape back panel keeps us cool, even on hot days.
Many packs are trying to pack in as many features as possible, but the Osprey Sportlite 25 has everything you need and skips features you don't. Its comfort and design rival more expensive packs, and it is a great choice for new and seasoned hikers alike. The pack fits close and conforms to the body, allowing unrestricted movement. Even with a 10" height difference, all of our testers, male and female, were able to find a comfortable fit. The AirScape backpanel and suspension system is comfortable with loads up to 15 pounds and has good ventilation. One of our testers noted, “My back never felt sweaty, even though it was warm out and I was in the sun for most of the hike.” The pack has a middle zippered compartment, in addition to the main compartment, and four smaller pockets. One tester said, “I like that I can keep items organized. Having two large pockets allows me to separate food from clothing, or shoes from my paddle when I use it for pickleball.” The mesh side pockets securely and easily fit 1-liter bottles of varying shapes, allowing us to carry 4 liters of hydration on long hikes.
SPECIFICATIONS
Advertised Volume
25 L
Measured Weight
27.2oz
Weight per Liter
1.09oz/L
Back Construction
AirScaper Atilon foam framesheet
Hydration Compatibility
Direct access external sleeve
The Sportlite balances weight and volume quite well, weighing 27.2 ounces for a 25-liter pack. The main body's 100D recycled high tenacity bird eye nylon proved durable during our testing, even while hiking through thorny desert scrub and crawling through caves. But for all that we enjoy about this pack, there are a couple of features that could be improved. The right hip belt pocket is a stretchy mesh with no closure, so we don't recommend storing anything important there. Also, the clip that keeps the hydration bladder in place is designed to work best with Osprey bladders, and fits some other brands, but not all. Lastly, in our hose test, the pack's interior was very wet. If you're looking for a similar pack with greater water resistance, we recommend the [REI Trail 25], which weighs more but features generous padding and comfortable shoulder straps. Despite the Sportlite's few drawbacks, it is a lightweight, well-designed pack and one of our overall favorites.
The REI Co-op Flash 22 is a lightweight daypack that offers great mobility at a budget-minded price point. While many packs compromise comfort and mobility, the Flash 22 offers freedom of movement and carries very well, but is not designed for heavy loads. According to one tester, “It felt larger than advertised — I could easily fit layers and a bunch of equipment inside. My biggest concern was not letting the load get too heavy.” Made from 70D nylon with a polyurethane coating, the entire pack weighs just 17.0 ounces and offers one of the best weight-to-volume ratios among the packs we tested, with the Venture Pal 35L being the other notably light and spacious option. Thoughtfully designed features on the Flash 22, like an abundance of exterior attachment loops, are useful and simple to use. Our testers have owned some version of the Flash daypack for over a decade, and this latest update convinced us that this line from REI will be an industry mainstay for budget, lightweight daypacks.
SPECIFICATIONS
Advertised Volume
22 L
Measured Weight
17 oz
Weight per Liter
0.77 oz/L
Back Construction
Removable foam pad
Hydration Compatibility
Internal hydration sleeve
Unfortunately, the Flash 22 isn't the most durable. The thin nylon material that keeps this pack lightweight is more vulnerable to abrasion, especially if you often move through dense underbrush or rocky environments. If you're seeking a more durable option on the lighter side, look at the Gregory Nano 18, which is made with more robust fabrics. The Flash also doesn't handle heavier loads well, with a minimalist foam pad being the only type of back support here. Our female team noted that petite users or those with a short torso may be frustrated by the lack of range in the sternum strap and sometimes found that they need to buckle the sternum strap below the bust line, which isn't ideal. Overall, the REI Flash 22 is an exceptionally well-balanced budget pack, and one we'd recommend for outings where weight and mobility are the biggest priorities.
The REI Trail 25 can be worn from the office to the mountain trail, thanks to its spacious dimensions and versatile features. The 25L capacity is slightly larger than the previous two bags, and we can easily fit either hiking gear or office electronics into the main compartment, with additional pockets offering excellent organization regardless of the day's needs. Tester Zach Lovell described why it stands out in the lineup to him, saying, “I found the pocket layout effective for days when I needed to carry tech; it even fits my laptop well, which was a surprise since I found most of the other daypacks in the lineup too narrow for a laptop.” While we'd still recommend you use a laptop case inside this bag, it does include a rain cover if you encounter precipitation. REI also generously reinforced the bag's nylon materials, creating roadworthy durability. Its built-in plastic board suspension and well-padded back also provide decent comfort.
SPECIFICATIONS
Advertised Volume
25 L
Measured Weight
30.9 oz
Weight per Liter
1.24 oz/L
Back Construction
Contured, foam pad
Hydration Compatibility
Internal hydration sleeve
The REI Trail 25 doesn't offer a great weight-to-volume ratio, weighing 30.9 ounces with only 25 liters of space. Fortunately, we found the weight less of a big deal on the type of day trips this pack is best for. While the generous back padding was comfortable, it came at the cost of reduced breathability, particularly on warm days. The thin hip straps are removable, but don't make this pack great for heavier loads. If you're looking for more of a commuter bag, the Osprey Daylite Plus has a designated and padded laptop sleeve. Despite a few setbacks, the REI Trail 25 is an excellent daypack if you're seeking an option equally at home on a commute or day hike.
The Venture Pal 35L is a featherweight daypack that's one of the least expensive options available today. It weighs only 12 ounces, about one-third of the weight of our favorite pack, the Osprey Talon 22. With approximately 35 liters of volume, this pack has room to hold many hiking or traveling items without breaking a sweat, making it ideal for a day on the trail or a long plane ride. However, it doesn't have the structure to support heavier loads. Tester Zach Lovell says, “It's an incredible option for volume, but I think it's best for bulky lower-weight packing, like if you need to pack a bunch of layers for cold days, rather than heavier, weighted, structured items.” The Venture Pal also folds into its own pocket, offering the option to pack it away when it isn't needed. This is a rare yet handy feature, especially for travel and storage. We also appreciated the colors offered, allowing you to decide whether you want your pack to stand out or blend in.
SPECIFICATIONS
Advertised Volume
35 L
Measured Weight
10.5 oz
Weight per Liter
0.3 oz/L
Back Construction
Nylon, no foam or structure
Hydration Compatibility
Internal sleeve that can be used for hydration, but no pathway for the hose
The Venture Pal 35L doesn't have a hip belt or back suspension, so if you think you'll load it up, think again. You'll want to make sure you keep it on the lighter side. Fortunately, many shoppers intending to use their daypacks for bulky items like clothes are less likely to max out the carrying capacity with a heavy weight. The Venture Pal doesn't offer much durability, so we'd recommend options like the Gregory Zulu 24 or the Gregory Citro 24 H2O if that's a priority. They're not nearly as lightweight as the Venture, but they offer substantial comfort and excellent construction quality. However, the penny-priced Venture Pal is worth consideration if you're on a strict budget and aren't anticipating heavy loads.
In the world of daypacks, the REI Co-op Traverse 35 sets a high bar for functionality and weight-carrying capacity. During our test hikes, we loved the suspension and generous cushion it offers in the hips, shoulders, and back, which led us to give this pack high marks in comfort. The features onboard the Traverse 35 are also incredibly useful, from the exterior attachment straps to the quick-access “brain” pocket (the top lid). Whether carrying just the ten essentials on a brief outing or a full winter mountaineering kit, the outcome is a comfortable, stable carry. “This is a miniature version of a Denali climber's backpack, and I love that,” our tester shared. The 210-400 denier recycled ripstop nylon material also makes this pack incredibly durable, matching options like the Osprey Stratos 34 in this metric. If you're looking for a daypack that can handle a variety of outdoor missions, no matter the weight, keep the Traverse 35 on your short list.
SPECIFICATIONS
Advertised Volume
35L
Measured Weight
52.0 oz
Weight per Liter
1.49 oz/L
Back Construction
Contured, foam pad
Hydration Compatibility
Internal hydration sleeve, hook and loop attachment point
In the latest design update to the well-known Traverse 35, REI addressed three crucial concerns we had with the previous iteration: they reduced the width and stiffness of the hip belt, they adjusted the dimensions to be slightly wider for easier packing, and they finally found a more secure method to attach the sternum strap to the backpack. This allowed us to get nitpicky, as the manufacturer fixed the biggest issues that had made us reduce its score in the past. The Traverse is still a stiffer and heavier model than much of the competition, so look at the REI Co-Op Flash 22 if mobility and weight are a priority. If you need an option that genre-bends between an overnight bag and a daypack, keep the Traverse 35 in mind; it's a highly capable model.
The Nemo Persist 30L All-Adventure is the Cadillac of daypacks. With helpful features like a retractable water bottle holder in the hip belt and adjustable bungee side straps, this bag offers all the bells and whistles needed for year-round adventures. Our lead tester added, “With up to 900 denier fabrics, this is as sturdy as a daypack gets. I put it through everything a 30-liter pack could do, including ski mountaineering, and I hardly found a scratch on it afterwards.” When fully loaded, the edges of the shoulder straps dug into some of our testers with narrower chests, making it less comfy than some other choices, though keeping the sternum strap loose did help remedy the problem. If you need a comfy daypack even with heavy loads, check out the REI Co-Op Traverse 35.
SPECIFICATIONS
Advertised Volume
31L
Measured Weight
50.2 oz
Weight per Liter
1.62 oz/L
Back Construction
CCubed recycled foam cushioning, wire support system
Hydration Compatibility
Internal hydration sleeve, loop attachment point
The Persist 30L boasts a U-shaped zipper design and wide dimensions, making it very easy to pack with a variety of gear or clothing. One tester also shared, “I love the quick-access layer pocket, which allowed me to snag my layers fast whenever a sudden storm came in.” While its weight-to-volume ratio is 1.62 ounces per liter, among the lowest scoring in the lineup, it offers top-tier durability for those who are rough on their packs. If needing something lighter that can carry weight well, consider the Osprey Talon 22, though it doesn't have the same capacity as the Persist. Outside of a few considerations, this is a great option for shoppers wanting unwavering durability for a wide variety of adventures.
From big summertime hikes to winter ski touring this pack was a great companion.
Credit: Japhy Dhungana
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We pushed each pack on easy, moderate, and difficult hikes to determine the best on the market today.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
How We Tested
After extensive market research, we bought the top options available today. We spent several weeks with each daypack in a variety of environments, from concrete sprawls in the city to rugged mountain ranges. We pushed each model on hikes, climbs, and backpacking adventures. We used them on our commute, trips to the local park, and gym to determine their best and worst attributes. We also performed more objective testing with a hose to size up each pack's weather resistance. To learn more about our testing process, check out our in-depth testing article.
Each daypack was scored across five rating metrics:
Comfort (25% of total score weighting)
Versatility (25% weighting)
Ease of Use (25% weighting)
Weight (15% weighting)
Durability (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
Our team for this daypack review is composed of both male and female testers with diverse backgrounds. IFMGA Mountain Guide Zach Lovell and outdoors guide Jacob Clark lead our team of male daypack testers. Zach has been using daypacks for over two decades, from North America to Europe to Asia, and considers this type of bag an essential part of any outdoor kit. An ex-chemist turned outdoor guide, Jacob is a passionate trail runner and fast packer, and understands how traversing varied terrain in changing conditions demands a well-planned approach to gear. He often modifies packs to fit the precise needs of a specific adventure.
Providing input for the unisex packs in this review are Tara Reddinger-Adams and Katie Brown. Tara is a former professional mountain bike coach and guide who spends her free time exploring the peaks, canyons, and sometimes bizarre natural formations of the southwest United States. Katie is a professional rock climber and spent “years carrying heavy bags up hills.”
A few of our experienced hikers, climbers, skiers, and product analysts that comprise our test team.
Analysis and Test Results
We used these packs for as many activities as possible during our months-long testing process. Our gear experts created tests and scoring criteria to push each pack to its limits and to make this comparison as objective as possible. This article explains how we assess a pack's performance in each metric and highlights the top performers to help identify the right pack for each user.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Deciding what daypack to purchase with your hard-earned dollar can be a daunting task, especially with so many packs seeming quite similar. Packs that cost more are typically larger capacity and have more specialized features, and more durable fabrics. However, you can acquire a fantastic, functional pack at an affordable price, and many well-known brands have value-oriented offerings.
Surpassing the performance of the budget-minded REI Co-op Flash 22 isn't easy. This pack is versatile enough to be useful for various activities, and is one of the least expensive models yet scored higher than many other packs in our test. The REI Trail 25 is another pack where you get a lot for the price.
The Gregory Nano 18 is a comfortable, well-constructed pack for under $100. If you're on a serious budget, the ultralight Venture Pal 35 is the lowest-priced daypack we tested, but you'll have to sacrifice some comfort and durability, which may be okay if you just need a pack for light-duty or infrequent hikes. The lightweight Osprey Sportlite 25, though slightly more expensive, has features and performance that exceed some more expensive packs, but is offered at a decent price point.
Differences in straps and backpanel can greatly affect a pack's comfort and pricepoint.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Comfort
A pack's comfort depends on adjustability, load-carrying capability, and ventilation. If you can't adjust a pack to properly fit your torso, it will not be comfortable. Features such as cushioned hip belts, padded shoulder straps, load lifting straps, and ventilated back panels all add to a pack's comfort.
Packs including the Gregory Zulu 24, Gregory Citro 24 H2O, and REI Co-op Traverse 35 are some of the most comfortable in our review and provide very good breathability, helping to keep us cool.
The Osprey Stratos 34 and Arc'teryx Aerios 18 are some of the more adjustable options tested. The shoulder strap position is adjusted with velcro, helping it to fit most individuals. The REI Co-Op Traverse 35 and Osprey Talon 22 also have adjustable back panels. Some packs, such as the Osprey Sportlite and REI Traverse, are also available in different sizes.
We recommend visiting the manufacturer's website for their sizing chart and instructions for how to measure your torso to ensure the best fit.
The Aerios' straps adjust with velcro, which has an excellent grip. Markings on the shoulder straps help you ensure the straps are even as you adjust them.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
The REI Trail 25 is a more modest option from REI that offers excellent comfort thanks to a well-padded back and a flexible support system. The ultralight REI Co-op Flash 22 is minimalist but carries moderate loads with stability due to its thoughtfully padded shoulder straps.
VaporSpan ventilated suspension with moisture-wicking mesh and perimeter alloy frame
3D cradle padded hipbelt with large zippered pockets
24 L
NEMO Persist 30L All-Adventure
CCubed recycled foam cushioning, wire support system
Broad, padded, with pockets and a water bottle holder
31L
REI Co-op Flash 22
Removable foam pad
Broad, ventilated but not padded.
22 L
Cotopaxi Batac 16L
Nylon and polyester, no support
None
16 L
Gregory Nano 18
Perforated CLPE foam
3/4" webbing
18 L
Venture Pal 35L
Nylon, no foam or structure
None
35 L
Deuter Speed Lite 21
Vented, foam pad
3/4" webbing, removeable
21 L
Osprey Stratos 34
Suspended mesh panel
Broad, padded, seamless
34 L
Osprey Daylite Plus
Mesh over vented foam
3/4" webbing, removable
20 L
Black Diamond Distance 15
Dynex (Nylon 100d + PE 200d) body material with Dynex Ripstop yarns
None
15 L
Arc'teryx Aerios 18
AeroForm back panel and anti-barreling frame sheet
3/4" webbing, removeable
18 L
Osprey Sportlite 25
AirScaper Atilon foam framesheet
Broad, padded, with pockets
25 L
Gregory Zulu 24 LT
VaporSpan ventilated back panel
Broad, padded, with pockets
24 L
Breathability is a crucial aspect of comfort. We appreciate packs that allow airflow across our backs to let sweat evaporate and keep us comfortable in both hot and cold environments. The Osprey Stratos 34, Gregory Citro 24 H2O, and Gregory Zulu 24 all have suspended mesh backpanels, which keep the pack's body off your back, providing excellent ventilation. After comparing dozens of options over the years, we can confidently say suspended mesh panels lead to significantly less sweatiness at the end of the day.
The Zulu's suspended mesh panel. You can see how the pack's body sits off the back, allowing air to flow between our back and the pack.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Simpler, lightweight options such as the Arc'teryx Aerios 18, Deuter Speed Lite 21, Gregory Nano 18, and the Cotopaxi Batac 16L were excellent in this metric relative to mobility, allowing our testers to scramble and rock climb in these packs with limited movement restriction.
Versatility
Versatility is a crucial component for those looking to use their bag for multiple activities. The Osprey Sportlite and Nemo Persist 30L All-Adventure came out on top in this metric, thanks to their all-around performance in various settings, with the Gregory Zulu 24 and Gregory Citro 24 H2O also scoring well.
Day hiking packs tend to be more versatile than a snow-sports or climbing-specific backpack. Their design frequently lends itself to serving double duty as a travel pack, carrying your laptop, or as a gym bag. The Osprey Daylite Plus is the only model with a proper laptop sleeve; however, we were able to fit our laptop into the hydration bladder sleeve on many models. If your focus is on traveling for work, consider checking out the laptop backpacks we tested – though it is important to note that many packs found in that review are less likely to do well on hikes.
This pack easily goes from the trail to work to the gym and beyond. We especially enjoy the multiple pockets to keep our gear organized.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
The Osprey Sportlite performs very well for a myriad of activities, including hiking, traveling, commuting, peak bagging, and as a gym bag, and has numerous pockets to keep things organized. The REI Co-Op Flash 22 is simple, but the main open compartment accommodates many items. This pack works well for urban applications, such as a daily gym bag, and also as an excellent day-trip bag to take on overnight trips for summit bids or day outings away from camp. The Nemo Persist 30L All-Adventure has an extensive list of features and more generous dimensions that make it easy to pack, whether loading it up with climbing gear or ski touring equipment.
Options like the Nemo Persist were great for ski touring, but also did well just being used as a travel bag.
Credit: Japhy Dhungana
In general, larger packs with rigid frames, such as the Osprey Stratos 34 and REI Traverse 35, offer less mobility, making them less ideal for scrambling. However, both can be used for a quick hike, an all-day backcountry fishing trip, or a backpacking trip if you're packing light.
Ease of Use
We found user-friendly features in packs of all shapes and sizes. Each pack is scored based on how intuitive it is or isn't to use. We also investigated each option's features, seeing how easy it was to employ their bells and whistles. Those having exceptionally user-friendly features earned the highest marks.
Daypacks such as the Cotopaxi Batac 16L and the REI Co-Op Flash 22 feature simple, no-frills designs that are easy to use. Similarly, the REI Co-Op Trail 25 and the Osprey Daylite Plus offer less flashy designs that are easy to pack and utilize for a day of activities.
Attaching the poles to this pack is fairly easy and frustration-free, which is much appreciated on long hikes.
Credit: Byron Adams
Some designs scored highly in this metric for useful and effective features, such as the Gregory Zulu 24, REI Co-Op Traverse 35, and the Nemo Persist 30L All-Adventure. These options offer many pockets for organization, and exterior attachment points allow items like a helmet or trekking poles to be lashed to the outside.
All the packs we tested are compatible with hydration bladders and nearly all have side water bottle pockets, although some work better than others at securing a bottle and/or allowing easy access. The attachment of the bladder to the pack varies widely between manufacturers. The Arc'teryx Aerios 18 lacks a bladder clip or strap, and Gregory and Osprey models both use clips that work best with their own brand of bladders. On some packs, we had to add a carabiner to hang our bladder.
Some packs, such as the Osprey Stratos 34 and REI Co-op Traverse 35, include a rain cover to help keep your pack and its contents dry.
The Osprey Stratos 34 includes a rain cover stashed into a dedicated pocket at the bottom of the bag, allowing you to stow it after a storm without soaking the rest of the bag.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Weight-to-Volume Ratio
We looked at each pack's weight per liter and investigated the overall feel of its corresponding volume. The clear winner in this metric was the Venture Pal 35L, which was among the largest and lightest-weight packs in the lineup and even folds into its own pocket.
Lightweight packs with higher volumes tend to be streamlined or made of advanced materials. In contrast, heavier-weight packs — regardless of size — tend to include more features and padding. Most packs under 1 ounce per liter trade load-carrying capabilities to save some weight. Still, their functionality, lightweight design, and versatility are hard to beat if you're looking for a simple daypack that is easy to take with you.
The Venture Pal 35L is an incredibly lightweight, yet voluminous pack.
Credit: Zach Lovell
The Osprey Daylite Plus, at 1.03 ounces/liter, provides a solid carrying capacity for its weight by keeping features to a minimum. The Arc'teryx Aerios 18 weighs only slightly more, but it offers more technical features for hiking and allows for excellent mobility while hiking and scrambling.
Custom Comfort
One simple solution to overcome an uncomfortable backpack is to pack carefully. For example, you can fold a clothing layer into a shape covering key areas on the back. We've also been known to cut out a section of foam pad to the dimensions of the back panel. The foam is very light and protective and can also double as a seat pad when taking a break or hanging around camp.
The heaviest packs tested are those made of heavy materials and sturdy constructions. The Osprey Stratos 34 (50.8 ounces, 34 liters) and the REI Co-Op Traverse 35 (52 ounces, 35 liters) are relatively heavy packs for their volume. However, you get a robust suspension, ventilation, and a bit of additional capacity. More importantly, however, they each include added features not found on other packs.
Construction Quality
Each product in this review demonstrated durability over weeks of use, but some will undoubtedly last longer than others. Packs were tossed onto the ground, onto rocks, and were subjected to bushwacking through thick, thorny scrub and more.
Outside of field testing, we tested each pack's water resistance with a hose. As expected, packs made of heavier fabrics have some of the best construction quality, including the Gregory Zulu 24, Nemo Persist 30L All-Adventure, REI Co-Op Traverse 35, and the Osprey Stratos 34.
The Gregory Nano 18 is made of a robust 210 denier nylon body with a 420 denier bottom, and stood out against other lightweight packs. The 210d Cordura nylon on the Arc'teryx Aerios 18 is also incredibly durable.
While we particularly liked the thicker fabrics used with the REI Co-op Traverse 35 and REI Co-Op Trail 25, a common durability issue with REI packs is their chest straps. Fortunately, REI seems to have addressed that issue since we tested the latest version of the Traverse, with the sternum strap remaining attached to the backpack the entire time.
The Nemo Persist 30L All-Adventure has a staggeringly burly construction, with the fabric denier ranging from 300 to 900 denier nylon and we could hardly put a scratch on this daypack.
The Nemo Persist is built as tough as it gets for a daypack.
Credit: Japhy Dhungana
When performing our hose tests, we put every pack on a level playing field by not using a rain cover to see how the pack would score. The same packs that stood out for durability in field testing performed similarly with these more objective tests, including the REI Co-Op Traverse 35 and the Osprey Stratos.
Some lightweight packs, such as the Deuter Speed Lite 21 and Aerois, performed very well, with minimal water on the inside. If you're using your daypack in wetter environments, you should use a rain cover or dry bag, but particularly with the Cotopaxi Batac 16L, Venture Pal 35L, or Osprey Sportlite 25.
The very soggy interior of the Osprey Sportlite after our one-minute hose test. All zippers were closed for this test, and our sprayer was set to the “garden” setting to mimic a steady rain.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
How to Choose The Best Daypack
We answer some common questions below to help narrow your search for your next daypack, a summation of our complete daypack buying advice article.
What Activities Do You Participate In?
Start by identifying the types of activities you want to use your daypack for. Some daypacks are great for specific activities such as hiking, running, or commuting, while others are more versatile. The pack's design priorities will influence the weight, shape, and compartment layout. If you need a daypack for hiking or rock climbing, look for bags made from more durable, heavier-weight fabrics that are designed to support heavier loads.
If you need a simple, lightweight bag for work or the gym, a simpler, frameless bag with pockets to organize your things will likely fit the bill. We always recommend looking in your closet to see what bags, daypacks, and travel luggage you already own and identify the gaps you may need to fill.
Our laptop is a tight fit in the Aerios, but it does fit.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
What Capacity Works Best?
The activity and how much gear you typically carry usually determine what size pack you need. However, it can be challenging to decide the volume you'll need, so we suggest erring on the side slightly larger rather than smaller. Packs under 20 liters are ideal for shorter day hikes of two to three hours and other lightweight adventures with minimal gear. However, some choose an option in this size range for larger outings when prioritizing low weight and high mobility.
Options in the 20-25 liter range are a great middle ground for day hikes of all lengths, while also being large enough to serve as a work, travel, or gym bag. Daypacks larger than 30 liters are best for activities with more gear, heavier loads, or even overnight trips. These daypacks commonly offer more back support for heavier loads, and often weigh more than their smaller-volume siblings.
Knowing what you carry can help you determine how large a pack you need. This is one of our testers' standard hiking kit sans water bottle.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
What to Look For in a Comfortable Pack
A comfortable, properly fitting daypack will add enjoyment to your adventures. It will help you avoid pressure points, chaffing, strain, aches, and ideally, less complaining. Key characteristics of a comfortable backpack should include a well-fitting frame or pack size, adjustability, back support for heavier loads, and breathability. When shopping for a pack, feel the padding, analyze the ventilation system on the back, and look for straps that adjust vertically and horizontally, ideally in multiple spots. Taking the time to account for features that make up a well-fitting pack can go a long way in finding your ideal backpack.
Load-lifting straps can help distribute the load and reduce back pain.
Credit: Byron Adams
How Important Are Features?
Some packs are so loaded with features that it seems you need an instruction book to use the pack, while others are more minimalist. Hydration reservoirs, deep side pockets for water bottles, and trekking pole loops can be especially handy on the trail or road.
For those who use a hydration bladder, make sure your bladder fits in your pack. If you prefer water bottles, look for deep, stretchy side pockets that will securely hold them. Prioritizing your needs and pocket preferences will help you choose the best pack for your next day out.
When this trekking pole strap is taut, it rubs against the arm uncomfortably.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Conclusion
Whether you're seeking a do-it-all pack or a specialized option, know we've done the hard part and that you can feel confident deciding on our well-vetted lineup. We've spent thousands of hours testing backpacks over the years, refining our testing process to provide the best daypack review possible today. From more general packs to those designed for heavy loads and everything in between, we have options for your needs and budget.
—Tara Reddinger-Adams, Zach Lovell, Jacob Clark, and Katie Brown
