Best Hiking Daypacks of 2026

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Hiking daypacks are essential for those who love to explore the great outdoors. These packs are designed to be lightweight, durable, and comfortable, providing hikers with the necessary space to carry all their gear. They come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small daypacks for short hikes to larger packs for longer expeditions. Many hiking daypacks also feature hydration systems, allowing hikers to easily carry water without having to stop and dig through their pack. With so many options available, hikers can find a daypack that fits their individual needs and preferences.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Pritent Adjustable Waterproof Crossbody Bag Cover #TOP 1
Pritent Adjustable Waterproof Crossbody Bag
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pritent Medium Waterproof Crossbody Sling Bag Cover #TOP 2
Pritent Medium Waterproof Crossbody Sling Bag
ftb score rating icon 9.7
G4Free 20L Packable Backpack Cover #TOP 3
G4Free 20L Packable Backpack
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Hiking Daypacks

Pritent Adjustable Waterproof Crossbody Bag

456685622
Black
Medium
Pritent Adjustable Waterproof Crossbody Bag Cover
Pritent Crossbody Bags for Women Men Trendy Sling Bag Bakpack Casual Chest Bag with Convertible Shoulder Strap Travel Cross Body Bag for Hiking Traveling Outdoors(Black)

The Pritent Waterproof Crossbody Bag offers great versatility with its adjustable strap that you can wear on either shoulder, helping reduce fatigue during long wear. It has multiple pockets, including front zipper compartments and a main section with organizers, so you can keep your essentials like wallet, tablet, and keys neatly stored and easy to find. Made from tough, waterproof fabric, this bag protects your belongings from rain and rough use, perfect for hiking or daily travel. Plus, the breathable mesh back panel keeps you comfortable by reducing sweat and friction, and reflective strips on the straps increase your safety by making you more visible outdoors.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Spacious storage
Multiple pockets
Water-resistant material
Adjustable shoulder strap
What We Don't Like
Minor zipper durability
Strap may tear with heavy load
#TOP 2

Pritent Medium Waterproof Crossbody Sling Bag

25355236
Black
Medium
Pritent Medium Waterproof Crossbody Sling Bag Cover
Pritent Crossbody Bags for Women Man Waterproof Sling Bag Backpack Trendy Casual Cross Body Bag with Convertible Shoulder Strap Chest Bag for Camping Hiking Travel Essentials (Black, Medium )

The Pritent Waterproof Sling Bag is designed to make your daily carry easy and comfortable. Its medium size fits your essentials without being bulky, and the adjustable strap lets you wear it as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or carry it by hand, perfect for both left- and right-handed users. With multiple pockets, you can organize everything from your wallet to your tablet, keeping items neat and easy to find. Made from durable, water-resistant nylon, it protects your belongings from splashes and light rain. The breathable back panel and reflective shoulder straps add comfort and safety, making it ideal for commuting or outdoor activities.

What We Like
Perfect size
Lightweight and comfortable
Durable material
Ample pockets
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Strap may loosen
A bit small for some

G4Free 20L Packable Backpack

G4Free TN0124
A-black
G4Free 20L Packable Backpack Cover
G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack Travel Hiking Daypack Foldable Backpack for Men Women

The G4Free 20L Packable Backpack is designed for travelers and hikers. It is foldable, lightweight, and easy to pack. With a roomy 20L capacity, it has three zippered compartments to keep things organized. Made with high-quality water and tear abrasion-resistant material, it is durable and tear-resistant. The backpack is comfortable to wear on your back with a wide S-shape breathable Mesh Shoulder strap. It is versatile for various trips like day trips, vacation, travel, hiking, school, camping, and shopping. The backpack is suitable to take as a personal item on flights.

What We Like
Lightweight and compact
Spacious storage capacity
Durable and sturdy material
Multiple compartments
Easy to fold and pack
What We Don't Like
Slight odor on arrival
No front buckle
#TOP 4

Nike Hayward 2.0 Backpack

BA5883
Black/Black/White
Misc
Nike Hayward 2.0 Backpack Cover
Nike Hayward 2.0 Backpack, for Women and Men with Polyester Shell & Adjustable Straps, Black/Black/White

The Nike Hayward 2.0 Backpack is a durable and stylish backpack for men and women. The polyester shell is sturdy and has a dense weave for lasting durability. It has adjustable shoulder straps with padding for comfort and a top haul loop for alternative carrying. This backpack has one main storage pocket and several smaller pockets for convenient item storage.

What We Like
Durable quality material
Comfortable to carry
Spacious design
Lightweight and easy to store
Attractive appearance
What We Don't Like
Limited storage capacity
Fragile front cords

Banelu Small Sling Backpack

slingbagblack
Black
One Size
Banelu Small Sling Backpack Cover
Banelu Small Sling Backpack Crossbody Sling Bag for Women, Chest Bag Daypack Fanny Pack Cross Body Bag for Outdoors Hiking Traveling - Black

The Banelu Sling Bag is designed for comfort and convenience, featuring durable, tear-resistant polyester that ensures long-lasting use. Its breathable mesh shoulder straps help alleviate pressure, making it ideal for extended wear during hikes or travels. You’ll appreciate the adjustable strap that fits most sizes, ranging from 22 to 43 inches, allowing you to wear it comfortably on your front or back. With dimensions of 11.2" x 6.1" x 3.2", this bag has multiple compartments to securely store your essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys, keeping everything organized and easily accessible.

What We Like
Spacious organized storage
Durable zippers and hardware
Adjustable comfortable strap
Lightweight minimalist design
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Occasional zipper issues
Minor fabric wear

Osprey Nebula Backpack

10004589
Black
One Size
Osprey Nebula Backpack Cover
Osprey Nebula Commuter Backpack, Black

The Osprey Nebula Backpack is designed for maximum efficiency and style. Its storage is tailored for seasonal needs, making it versatile for year-round use. This backpack is created to enhance your adventures, whether you're hiking or commuting. Additionally, the dual stretch mesh pockets are perfect for holding various water bottle sizes, ensuring you stay hydrated while on the go. With these thoughtful features, you can enjoy your explorations with ease and convenience, knowing you have a reliable companion by your side.

What We Like
Excellent build quality
Superb organization and pockets
Comfortable straps and back panel
Protective laptop compartment
Versatile for travel and daily use
What We Don't Like
Sunglasses pocket could be softer
Waist strap less useful
#TOP 7

IX INOXTO 30L Waterproof Hiking Backpack with 3L Water Bladder

Black
Large
IX INOXTO 30L Waterproof Hiking Backpack with 3L Water Bladder Cover
IX INOXTO Hiking Backpack, Camping Backpack, 30L Waterproof Hiking Daypack with 3L Water Bladder and Rain Cover (black)

The IX INOXTO Hiking Backpack offers great comfort with its breathable mesh and adjustable steel ring system that fits your body shape perfectly. You’ll stay hydrated all day thanks to the large 3-liter water bladder made from durable materials. With a spacious 30-liter capacity and multiple compartments, you can easily organize and carry all your essentials for any outdoor activity. Plus, the included rain cover keeps your belongings dry during wet weather. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or cycling, this backpack is designed for convenience and versatility to support your adventures.

What We Like
Ergonomic breathable design
Large 3L water bladder
Multiple storage compartments
Includes rain cover
#TOP 8

Tuwubi Black Lightweight Crossbody Sling Bag

TWB-JS
Black
Medium
Tuwubi Black Lightweight Crossbody Sling Bag Cover
Tuwubi Crossbody Bags for Women, Sling Bag for Men, Small Hiking Backpack Anti Theft Lightweight for Outdoors Travel (M, Black)

The Tuwubi Crossbody Sling Bag is a versatile and stylish option for your daily activities and outdoor adventures. Whether you're heading to the gym, exploring theme parks, or going on a hike, this bag frees your hands while keeping your belongings secure. Made with durable, water-resistant Oxford fabric, it protects your items from scratches and light rain, plus it’s easy to clean. The adjustable, soft strap ensures comfortable wear without digging into your neck, even during extended use. With five zippered pockets, you can easily organize essentials like your phone, wallet, passport, and even an iPad up to 10.9 inches, so you can find what you need quickly and stay prepared on the go.

What We Like
Roomy storage capacity
Comfortable adjustable strap
Durable material quality
Multiple functional pockets
Lightweight and easy to carry
What We Don't Like
Minor zipper issues
Some loose stitching

MIYCOO Ultra Lightweight Backpack

Black
MIYCOO Ultra Lightweight Backpack Cover
MIYCOO Backpack - Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack for Travel Camping, Hiking Back Pack Waterproof Foldable Daypack for Men Women Black

The MIYCOO Lightweight Backpack is an ultra-light and practical travel companion. Weighing less than a mobile phone, it folds into its inner pocket for easy storage, making it perfect for spontaneous trips. When unfolded, it offers ample space with a generous 45L capacity and multiple compartments, including a dedicated wet compartment to keep your items organized. The waterproof fabric ensures your belongings stay dry during light rain, while heavy-duty zippers enhance durability for everyday use. Plus, a survival whistle on the shoulder strap adds an important safety feature for outdoor adventures.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Spacious storage
Folds compactly
Multiple pockets
Good value
What We Don't Like
Minimal padding
Partial waterproofing

ZOMAKE Packable Backpack 25L

TM00100
Navy Blue
Small
ZOMAKE Packable Backpack 25L Cover
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack 25L - Foldable Hiking Backpacks Water Resistant Small Folding Daypack for Travel(Navy Blue)

ZOMAKE 25L Backpack is a versatile and practical choice for travelers. With a well-organized structure, it can hold your lunch, files, passports, and travel essentials efficiently. Weighing only 0.64 LB, it unfolds to a convenient size of 16.1×10.6×7.9 inches, perfect for plane trips. The water-resistant nylon material ensures your items stay dry, while the reinforced stitching and smooth two-way zipper enhance durability. The ergonomic design reduces shoulder pressure, and adjustable straps cater to different users for a comfortable and stable fit.

What We Like
Lightweight and compact
Spacious with multiple compartments
Durable construction
Comfortable shoulder straps
Easy to pack and store
What We Don't Like
Thin material
Minor durability concerns
Buying Guide Image

Sorting Out the Hiking Daypacks That Are Right for You

Introduction

Hiking daypacks are an essential piece of equipment for any hiker. They allow you to carry all of your essential gear, such as food, water, and extra layers, while keeping your hands free to navigate the trail. Choosing the right hiking daypack can make a big difference in your hiking experience, so it's important to consider a few key factors before making a decision.

Capacity

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a hiking daypack is its capacity. Daypacks are typically smaller than other types of hiking packs, so they are not meant to carry a lot of gear. The size of the pack you need will depend on how long your hike is and what you need to bring with you. For example, if you're planning a short day hike, you might only need a pack that is capable of carrying a few snacks and a water bottle. On the other hand, if you're planning a longer hike, you might need a larger pack to carry more food and water, as well as extra layers and other essential gear.

Fit

Another important factor to consider when choosing a hiking daypack is fit. The pack should be comfortable to wear and not impede your movement. The best way to ensure a good fit is to try on the pack and adjust the straps until it feels comfortable and secure. The pack should sit snugly on your back and not shift or slide around while you're hiking.

Features

Hiking daypacks come with a variety of different features, and the right pack for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Some common features to look for include pockets and compartments for organizing your gear, a hydration reservoir for carrying water, and a rain cover to protect your pack in wet conditions. Other useful features might include a built-in whistle for emergency situations, trekking pole attachments, and a sternum strap to help distribute the weight of the pack more evenly across your body.

Durability

Hiking daypacks are designed to withstand the rigors of the trail, but not all packs are created equal in terms of durability. Look for packs made from high-quality materials, such as ripstop nylon or polyester, that are resistant to tears and abrasions. Be sure to read customer reviews and check the manufacturer's warranty before making a purchase to ensure that you're getting a pack that will last.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hiking daypack can make a big difference in your hiking experience. Consider the capacity, fit, features, and durability of the pack to ensure that you have the right pack for your needs. With a little research and consideration, you can find a pack that will serve you well on the trail.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a good size backpack for a day hike?

For a day hike, a backpack between 10 and 25 liters is recommended. This size allows you to carry essentials like water, snacks, a jacket, sunscreen, and other necessary items. If you're planning a longer hike, a larger backpack between 20 and 35 liters would be more suitable.

2. What is the difference between a backpack and a daypack?

While backpacks are versatile for everyday use, daypacks are specifically designed for hiking or overnight trips. Daypacks are made of more durable materials, carry more items, and are designed for lighter loads compared to regular backpacks.

3. Do you need a daypack for hiking?

For shorter hikes, you have options like a bottle sling or a small daypack to carry essentials like snacks and your phone. However, for longer hikes, it is recommended to use a daypack between 10 and 20 liters, which can accommodate extra layers, a first-aid kit, and more.

4. What is the best size for a travel daypack?

A daypack in the 20-30 liter range is considered ideal for travel. This size allows you to carry all the essentials, including food for the day, extra clothing, and other necessary items.

5. How many miles is reasonable to backpack in a day?

The number of miles you can backpack in a day depends on various factors like your fitness level and the elevation gain. Most people plan to hike between 3 and 10 miles per day, taking into account their physical condition and time constraints.

6. Is 30l too big for a day pack?

While daypacks typically range from 15 to 35 liters, a 30-liter daypack is suitable for all-day hikes or winter hikes when you need to carry extra water, food, clothing, and other essentials.

7. How heavy should a Daypack be?

A loaded daypack for hiking should not weigh more than about 10 percent of your body weight. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, your daypack should not exceed 15 pounds. This weight limit helps prevent strain and discomfort during your hike.

8. What are the 2 types of backpacks in hiking?

There are two main types of backpack frames in hiking: external and internal frames. External frames have a separate frame structure attached to the backpack using straps or clips. Internal frames, on the other hand, are integrated into the fabric of the pack and are often hidden.

9. What is the difference between a hiking backpack and a regular backpack?

The main difference between a hiking backpack and a regular backpack is the support and organization. Hiking backpacks are designed with supportive features like frames, hip belts, and sternum straps to prevent back pain during hikes.

10. What is the standard Daypack size?

Daypacks are the smallest type of backpack, usually measuring between 20 and 40 liters (1200 to 2500 cubic inches). They do not have an internal frame and are designed to carry loads of no more than 20 to 25 pounds.

Editor's Notes

During our hiking daypack research, we found 24 hiking daypack products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 136,816 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hiking daypacks list. We found that most customers choose hiking daypacks with an average price of $21.40.

The hiking daypacks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hiking daypacks, including Pritent, G4Free, Nike, Banelu, Osprey. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 554 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Arlen Smith Avatar

Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.

Hiking Daypacks Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Pritent Pritent G4Free Nike Banelu Osprey IX INOXTO Tuwubi MIYCOO ZOMAKE
Item Weight - 9.6 ounces 6.1 ounces 14.6 ounces 6.4 ounces 2.12 pounds 3.5 pounds 7.8 ounces 12.8 ounces 9.6 ounces
Department - unisex-adult unisex-adult unisex-adult womens unisex-adult unisex-adult Unisex unisex-adult mens
Age Range Description - Adult Adult Adult Adult Kid Adult - Adult Adult
Units - 1 Count 1 Count 1 Count 1 Count 1 Count 1 Count - 1.0 Count 1 Count
Capacity Total - 6 Liters 20 Liters 26 Liters 218.62 Cubic Inches 32 Liters 55 Liters - 45 Liters 25 Liters
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy