The Lightweight Backpack For Day Hiking In 2024

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Lightweight backpack for day hiking
Lightweight backpack for day hiking

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack

Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Travel Hiking Backpack Day Pack is the perfect backpack for camping, hiking, day hikes, and travel. The bag features a roomy main compartment with one separator and one small zippered pocket to organize your gear. With a large capacity of 40L, you can easily organize all your essential items. Read Review

2. Runner Up: WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack Sling Bag Travel Hiking

If you're looking for a stylish backpack that can go anywhere, this is it. The high-quality material and multiple compartments will keep all your belongings in order while you travel. This stylish bag is easy to carry around with a shoulder strap or as a crossbody sling backpack. Read Review

3. Best Lightweight: Venture Pal Ultralight Lightweight Packable Foldable Travel Camping

Venture Pal Ultralight Packable Travel Backpack is a great fit for travel, camping and hiking. It is lightweight yet sturdy enough to take everywhere you go. It has a main zipped pocket with two separators on the inside for further organization. The two front pockets are perfect for holding small accessories such as phones or cameras. Read Review

4. Best For Kids: Sunhiker Cycling Hiking Backpack Water Resistant Travel Backpack

Sunhiker Cycling Hiking Backpack Water Resistant Travel Backpack is a small backpack, suitable for those people who do not want a big size and just need to take necessity when doing outdoor sports. Breathable mesh shoulder straps help relieve the stress on the shoulder. Multiple compartments offer enough space to save your belongings. With high-quality smooth zipper and durable whistle buckle. Read Review

Day hiking is a great way to spend time outside and explore your local area. It’s also a lot less sweaty than backpacking. If you’re new to hiking, check out our day-hiking essentials guide as well as our list of the best day hikes in every state.

To help you enjoy the outdoors more comfortably, it’s a good idea to choose the right type of hiking backpack. After all, you want something that’ll just get the job done and won’t weigh you down or feel like a burden. A lightweight pack is the perfect choice for those who aren’t willing to compromise on comfort but also don’t really need a heavy duty pack either. So here are some of our top picks for lightweight backpacks for day hiking.

You are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack as our top product. Or you can check the WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack Sling Bag Travel Hiking as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.

Our Top Picks

  • 【Compact & Comfortable】It weighs only 1 pounds, can easily fold into its own pocket for storage,and unfold it when you need it. Breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help relieve the stress from your shoulder. The chest clip with a whistle buckle work perfectly to distribute the pack’s weight and keep it steady and centered. A must have for sports , hiking, camping and traveling.
  • 【Upgraded Wet Pocket Design】Venture Pal backpack stands out with more humane design for easy and convenient use. One waterproof wet pocket is added to the main compartment, a zipper on the back of this backpack which led to the internal wet pocket, to better separate sweaty clothes, towels or other personal things after swimming or taking exercise.
  • 【Large Capacity & Multi Compartment】With 40L storage space, this backpack features with multi-compartment design includes one main zipped compartment, one zipped front pockets and two side pockets. One separator and one small zippered pocket in the main compartment are convenient enough to help you further organize things.Large capacity helps you easily organize all your essential items.
  • 【Purchase Tips】- If there is any problem, just contact with us, we will handle with it immediately.
  • 【Durable Material】This backpack is made of high quality tear and water resistant nylon fabric,heavy duty metal zippers and enhanced by bar-tacks at major stress points provide long-lasting durability against daily activities.The extra strength provided by the double-layer bottom piece makes it possible to carry more stuff.
  • Hidden Earphone Hole: There is a hidden earphone hole on the front, providing easy access to your earphones, you can enjoy music anytime and anywhere.
  • Superior Material: The shoulder strap and the back is made of breathable material, make you feel comfortable when travel, hiking and so on.
  • 【After-sales guarantee】If you have any problem with broken or damaged items you purchased,please do not hesitate to contact us with your order ID. We will reply and address your issue within one day, so please purchase with confidence.
  • Adjustable Reversible Shoulder Strap: Designed with 3 D-rings on the lower part, the adjustable shoulder strap can be connected with the left or right D-ring for your preference, so that it is convenient to wear on your left or right shoulder. The shoulder strap pouch is 3.5 x 1.5 x 7.5 inches (L x W x H), it hold the phone screen size under 7 inches easily. Shoulder strap can be adjusted from 31 ” to 39.5 ”.
  • Keep Everything in Order: Size: 7 x 3.5 x 15 inches /18 x 9 x 38 cm. The front zipper bag and buckle bag allow you to store iPad mini, iPhone 7 Plus, power band, etc., with several separate small compartments inside, it can effectively keep your small items like makeup, tissue, keys and so on. The side mesh pocket is 6 inches height, it can hold 2.4 inch(diameter) bottle.
  • DURABLE. Made with high quality material, ultra-light, tear and water resistant .The extra strength provided by double-layer bottom piece, enhanced by bar-tacks at major stress points makes it very convenient to carry more load on your journeys.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT(0.7LB) and ROOMY(35Liters). Fold the backpack into its own pocket and unfold it when you reach your destination. To avoid overweight charge, simply unfold from your checked bags and use it as a carry on for your excess baggage.
  • MULTI COMPARTMENTS. One main zipped compartment including two separators help you further organize things. Two zipped front pockets are good for holding small accessories. Two side pockets are good for holding water bottles and umbrellas.
  • LIFETIME WARRANTY: Our Promise-lifetime warranty-Exchange, return, whatever it takes.
  • COMFORTABLE. Breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help relieve the stress from your shoulder. The length of the shoulder straps is adjustable. The chest strap with a whistle buckle help you lock your backpack in place.
  • Material: Highly tear resistant Nylon, Water-resistant, Lightweight, Scratch-resistant, Durable & Comfortable. Provides you a long-term, secure daily using.
  • Dimensions:15.8H x 9.4L x 5.9W inches/ 40 x 24 x 15 cm. Weight:12.3oz. Capacity: About 20-25L.
  • Perfect for activities like hiking, camping, climbing, traveling, cycling and other outdoors sports. Any problems please contact us in your free time, we will solve it within 24 hours.
  • It is a small backpack, suitable for those people who do not want a big size and just need to take necessity when doing outdoors sports. Suitable for Kids Girls Boys Children Over 3 Years.
  • Breathable mesh shoulder straps which helps relieve the stress of shoulder. Multiple compartments offering enough place to save your belongs more detailed classification and well. Bottle holder on the both sides. With high quality smooth zipper and durable whistle buckle.
  • Compact: Easy to use and easy to store. Fold this backpack into its own zip pocket for storage and unfold it when you reach travel destination. Perfect for airport carry-on to avoid overweight charge. Fold size only 8.66 x 9.8 x1.18 inches. Unfold size is 20.86 x 12.6 x 9 inches for reference.
  • Lightweight (0.91 Pounds) and Roomy (35 Liter): This lightweight packable daypack provides enough room for traveling, overnight trip, camping, day hiking and vocation. Great backpack for men and women. Ideal for Disney day trip.
  • Water Resistant and Puncture Resistant: Its ripstop nylon construction sheds rain and resists wear better than cheaper polyester, provides extra strength and long-lasting performance with the lightest weight possible.
  • Multiple Compartments: This travel backpack features one zip main compartment, two front zip pockets, two mesh side pockets and several inside pockets. The main compartment can hold a 13" laptop with spare space. Two mesh side pockets can even hold a 40 oz water bottle.
  • Ultra Durable and Comfortable: NEEKFOX 35L hiking backpack is made from build quality thickened nylon fabric, which can stand up to more heavier loads of your travel. The s-shaped breathable shoulder straps are adjustable to fit anybody.
  • ❤ Compact & Comfortable: It weighs only 1.9 pounds, can easily fold into its own pocket for storage,and unfold it when you need it. Breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help relieve the stress from your shoulder. A must have for sports , hiking, camping and traveling.
  • ❤ Large Capacity & Multi Compartment Bookbag: College Backpack with 40L storage space(20.5inch x 13inch x 7.1inch), this backpack features with multi-compartment design includes one main zipped compartment, one zipped front pockets and two side pockets. One separator and one small zippered pocket in the main compartment are convenient enough to help you further organize things.Large capacity helps you easily organize all your essential items.
  • ❤ Breathable Mesh Padding: Stylish DayPack with the ventilated mesh padding shoulder straps and backside, breathable system and lightweight design are the perfect hiking backpack for outdoor sports. Ergonomically designed provides body comfort even when pack is completely full. Keep it cool even in summer.
  • ❤100% RISK-FREE PURCHASE: If you are not satisfied with our Rucksack, please contact us immediately, we will give you a satisfied solution ASAP.
  • ❤ Water Resistant & DURABLE: Made of Water Resistant high-density polyester material. FENGDONG camping backpack is made of extra thick, tear-resistant, water-resistant and anti-abrasion polyester fiber. All stress points are reinforced with bar tacking to increase its longevity.
  • 【Water Resistant material】This lightweight hiking daypack is made of water-resistant material and zipper. Effectively prevent rainwater from wetting the phone or cash and other items in the backpack.
  • 【Lightweight & Compact】Weight only 4 (oz), which is about half of the weight of a iphone. Easy to carry, can be folded into the wallet size fit into a pocket.
  • 【Multipurpose】This Foldable backpack provides enough space for outdoor travel, camping, hiking, day trips and shopping. Comes with a main zipper pocket, a front zipper pocket and two mesh side pockets. The main compartment provides enough storage space for day trips, hiking and shopping. It is also an ideal choice for international travel at the airport.
  • 【Durable】Tear-resistant 30D nylon will effectively prevent branches, stones from scratching the pack, keys and other products can also be safely placed inside. All stitches are strengthened to suit long-term use.
  • We want to make sure you have an amazing experience with us. 30 day no hassle returns / free exchange,12 month warranty.
  • BREATHABLE MESH PADDING: It is a ergonomically designed daypack. With ventilated mesh padding shoulder straps and backside. It is a perfect hiking backpack for outdoor sports.
  • LARGE CAPACITY BACKPACK: This hiking backpack has 40L storage space, dimension is 21.3*13.8*9.1 inch. With multi-compartment design includes one main zipped compartment, one zipped front pockets and two side pockets, one separator and one small zippered pocket in the main compartment, there is more than 10 pockets can hold everything you need in travels, such as phone, pens, maps,bottles or umbrella etc. You can easily organize all your essential stuffs.
  • DURABLE MATERIAL: Our camping backpacks made of high quality tear and waterproof polyester fabrics with smooth metal zippers. Pack and shoulder strap stitching is not easy to tear even if it bears heavy items. All stress points are reinforced with bar tacking to increase its longevity.
  • 100% SATISFACTION: If you are unhappy with our hiking daypacks, please do not hesitate to contact us. Support returns and exchanges within 90 days.
  • COMFORTABLE & MULTIFUNCTIONAL: This travel backpack can be easily fold into its own pocket for storage; the sturdy shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help relieve the stress from your shoulder. Ideal comfort for daily use or day trips, holiday, travel, hiking, school, camping and shopping.
  • Improved Organization: With one hidden zipped pouch for your essentials, one spacious zipped compartment and one zipped front pocket, the backpack has the capacity for whatever you need to bring. Solid SBS zippers are smooth to operate and can withstand decades of use. Reflective stripe across the front for safety.
  • Supercharge Your Day: Designed with a cable hole and an internal pocket for your portable battery, it is convenient to charge your electronic products when they are low on juice. In addition, the sturdy side buckles can endure the low temperature of -40℃.
  • Optimize Design: An external wet pocket for your storage of leaky or wet items. Ergonomically-designed shoulder straps provide you with lightweight comfort. Breathable air-mesh helps dissipate heat when you are carrying. An adjustable chest strap increases stability while reducing the stress on the shoulders and back.
  • Packable and Multipurpose: The backpack is protable and folds into a compact zip pocket, which can easily be stored in a suitcase or luggage as an extra bag on a trip. Suitable for men, women and youth, the backpack is a perfect companion for casual hiking, camping, day trips, traveling, cycling, outdoor sports, trekking, daily activities, school, etc.
  • Lightweight and Superb: Crafted with hard-wearing and high-quality 900D oxford nylon, the lightweight hiking backpack is packable. It weighs 420g. Unfold size is 19.3 x 12.5 x 8.6 inches, fold size 7.5 x 7.9 x 1.97 inches.
  • SMALL SIZE!COMFORTABLE & EASY BURDEN -- TOMULE 25L Small Hiking Daypack /Camping Backpack / Traveling Daypack / Cycling Backpack /Bike Backpack/ Outdoor sport Backpack is specially designed for traveling enthusiasts. Adjustable breathable shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help relieve the stress from your shoulder, ensure a proper fit and comfortable all-day use. The chest clip with a whistle buckle work perfectly to distribute the pack’s weight and keep it steady and centered.
  • MULTI-PURPOSE TRAVEL BACKPACK -- A must for travel and hiking enthusiasts. TOMULE 25L ultra-light backpack Can be used as hiking backpack daypack / sling bags / outdoor travel backpack / working or business backpack , suitable for women /men/youth/ girls /boys/kids, perfect for day trips and short trips, travel, daily use,vacation,outdoor day hikes, camping,cycling, school, office, business or shopping etc. Camping out with TOMULE Backpack to breath fresh air and refresh your mood.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT and FOLDABLE -- Easy to carry. 25L Hiking backpack itself weight Only 0.7 pounds, making your journey relaxing. It also can be easily stuffed into its own zippered pocket with Sandwich size -- space-saving storage and compact portability. Unfold Size: 16.9x9.8x6.3 inches. Folded Size: 6.7x6.5x1.9 inches.It meet size requirements for most airlines, enough room for 1 or 2 days trips
  • PERFECT SIZE & MULTI COMPARTMENT -- Spacious backpack packed with roomy zipper main compartment, 1 zipper Secondary compartment, 2 front zipper pocket, 3 internal pocket, and 2 mesh side pockets. 25-liter Ultra-light Foldable backpack provides enough space for outdoor travel, camping, hiking, cycling and fishing.
  • WATER RESISTANT and DURABLE -- Hiking backpack is made of High quality rip-stop nylon fabric, water resistant, tear resistant, anti-Scratch, wear resistant, breathable and moisture proof, smooth and comfortable.It can prevent the water and dust into the backpack, protect your valuables from heavy rain and keep everything dry. Durable two-way abrasion-resistant SBS metal zipper for secure closure.

Tips for choosing the most appropriate model among the list of lightweight backpack for day hiking

Perhaps as a customer, you may be looking for a lightweight backpack for day hiking that may provide you with just what you want, such as being environmentally friendly, freely selected, and so on.

In this section, we will discuss with you the buying guides and main factors to consider when planning to buy the product from e-commerce websites, so that when the time comes to make your final selection, everything would be laid out in front of you.

Hip Belts

The amount of padding provided by daypack hip belts varies. Some daypacks come without a hip belt, others have a webbing strap and some include pockets and padding. Hip belts that are simple and unpadded are meant to prevent a daypack's bounce against your hips or back while you walk. However, hip belts with more padding can shift the weight to your hips. A padded hip belt should be fitted correctly. For more information, see our article: How should a backpack hip belt fit? For a more detailed explanation, please visit our article How Should a Backpack Hip Belt Fit?

Capacity

What size should my daypack be? Daypacks come in a range of sizes, from 20L to 35L. The length of the hike and how many layers and clothing you will need to keep you safe from rain, snow, wind and other hazards determine which size backpack you should purchase. A smaller backpack can be sufficient for half-day hikes. However, we suggest a larger size for longer hikes and peak bagging. We also recommend the 30-35L range to transport extra water, food layers, water, as well as the 10 Essentials.

Hydration Compatibility

Daypacks and backpacks can be used with hydration systems. However, most require you to purchase a water hydration system. This can be costly. You can save money by choosing backpacks that have mesh sides and are able to hold water bottles.

Color

It is personal to choose the color of a pack. Today's daypacks come in many colors and styles. You can choose what works best for you. Remember that the packs' high-visibility "fluorescent" colors are used to aid rescuers in an unfortunate event.

Activities

Multisports are possible with most daypacks, including skiing, hiking, mountain biking and climbing. If you plan to use your daypack for mountain biking and hiking, then look out for one with reflective accents, a helmet holder and a blinky-light attachment. Daypacks for climbing and hiking should be able to carry additional climbing gear such as ropes and can also hold a helmet. Daypacks for hiking, skiing, or snowboarding should have an insulated water pocket and straps to carry skis and boards.

Weight

Because you don't have as many gear, food or water, a daypack weighs less than a multiday backpack. It's always a good idea to have less weight but don't sacrifice your safety. A daypack should not collapse when it's packed. It should ride on your hips, and not your shoulders. You should look for bags that are 40 oz or less. This is a reasonable weight that will still give you plenty of options.

Rain Cover

A lot of daypacks come with a raincover, so you don't have to buy one individually. You can cover your daypack with plastic bags, but they won't protect your valuables in the small pockets on the top.

Ventilation

A ventilated backpack can increase airflow to your back if you are prone to sweating or hiking in humid conditions. You can feel a big difference in how comfortable you are by having your back and shirt cool. There are many options for backpack ventilation. Some backpacks have an airflow-enhancing mesh cavity. They work well. Others have air channels between the foam cutouts or back padding to promote airflow.

Adjustable Length

Like clothing, backpack sizing is a key factor in how comfortable a daypack will feel. The torso length is the measurement between the bottom of your shoulder blades and your hips. A daypack can be resized to fit you perfectly with an adjustable-length backpack. It's like having a tailored suit. This is a very attractive feature. The fixed length backpack is sized for a wide range of body lengths. This can lead to a tight fit, especially if you have a longer torso. Beginner day hikers should consider purchasing an adjustable-length backpack to allow them to experiment with various torso sizes and find the right fit.

Pockets And Organization

Most backpacks have a distinct design that makes them different. Many backpacks feature open pockets which are vulnerable to the elements, and close pockets to protect items. For items that are frequently used, such as a jacket or sweater, snacks, or water filters, open pockets can be useful. It's not a good idea to have to reach into your bag every time you want one of these items. You can also store damp items in open pockets. They dry quickly and won't dampen the backpack. Closed pockets, including the main compartment are great for keeping items that you don't use as often but want dry and protected. These pockets will be found in most backpacks.

FAQs

Does A Daypack Have A Frame Or Not?

While some daypacks have frames, others don't. A frame is required only if the backpack is carrying heavy loads. Frames can transfer weight from the shoulders to your hips (hip belt), and also increase the overall backpack's weight.

Are You Going To Hike?

A daypack is essential for everyday hiking. A day pack should be small, lightweight, sturdy and durable, as well as able to withstand a variety of weather conditions.

What Is The Difference Between A Daypack And A Backpack?

Daypacks can be considered backpacks but they are not all daypacks. Daypacks are small, lightweight backpacks that can be used for short trips.

What Should I Pack In My Day Pack?

It will all depend on the purpose of the daypack, however, if you're using it for hiking we suggest a spare set of clothes, water and snacks as well as a first-aid kit.

What Size Pack Do I Need For A 5-Day Hike?

Around 60L backpack. Any less and you will need to make sacrifices.

What Is A Day Pack?

The daypack, which is often lighter than a larger backpack but still big enough to carry essentials on short hikes and overnight trips is the smaller variant of the large backpack.

What Size Is A Daypack?

A daypack typically has a volume between 20 and 35 liters. Daypacks are best for short hikes, but they can be useful for longer hikes.

Conclusion

In summary, the lightweight backpack for day hiking is the one that will provide you with exactly what you want. Provided that you are not satisfied with the models listed above, we propose SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack, 20L Lightweight Travel Backpacks for you. 

If you are unclear about how to select an item for yourself or someone else at any time in this post, please let us know! Our team of professionals is always pleased to help you find the best match.


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

Read Hailey's full bio