Best Lightweight Hiking Daypacks of 2026

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

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Lightweight hiking daypacks are an essential piece of equipment for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. These packs are designed to be lightweight and comfortable, making them perfect for day hikes or short overnight trips. They typically feature a variety of pockets and compartments, allowing hikers to easily organize and access their gear. Many also come with hydration systems, keeping hikers hydrated and energized throughout their trek. With a range of sizes and styles to choose from, lightweight hiking daypacks are a must-have for anyone who wants to stay comfortable and prepared on their next outdoor adventure.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L Cover #TOP 1
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L
ftb score rating icon 9.8
G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack Cover #TOP 2
G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack
ftb score rating icon 9.7
WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack Cover #TOP 3
WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Lightweight Hiking Daypacks

ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

SDJ-SG-TM0018
Black
Small
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L Cover
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L, Packable Small Backpacks Water Resistant Daypack for Women Men(Black)

ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L is a packable and portable backpack, perfect for traveling and hiking. It is only 0.5 pounds and can be folded into a compact pocket when not in use. With a capacity of 20L, it has a reasonable pocket distribution and is made of water-resistant and tear-resistant nylon material. The latest design effectively reduces shoulder pressure and has an anti-light strip for night walks. ZOMAKE has received praise from 500,000 satisfied customers worldwide.

What We Like
Ultra lightweight and packable
20L capacity with reasonable pocket distribution
Water-resistant and tear-resistant nylon material

G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack

G4Free TN22B044A
Black
G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack Cover
G4Free 10L/15L Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Hiking Daypack Small Travel Outdoor Foldable Shoulder Bag

The G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack is a lightweight and foldable daypack perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and traveling. It is made with thickened water-resistant nylon material and high-quality SBS zipper, and features one main compartment, one front compartment, and two side pockets. Customers love its quality construction, comfortable straps, and waterproof material. The only downside is that the side pockets are too small for larger water bottles.

What We Like
Lightweight and packable
Durable construction and waterproof material
Spacious main pocket and inner pocket for secure storage
Wide and comfortable straps
Functional design for various outdoor activities and travel

WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack

ONJ11
Blue
Medium
WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack Cover
WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack: 30L Foldable Travel Daypack Ultralight Camping Day Pack for Woman Man

The WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack is a durable and practical backpack for hiking and other outdoor activities. It can be easily folded into a small pocket, made with high-quality tear and water-resistant nylon, and has a large capacity and multi-compartment features that keeps everything in order. Additionally, it has a wet pocket design, breathable shoulder straps, and a cable hole and internal pocket for convenience. It is packable and multipurpose, making it the perfect companion for casual hiking, day trips, camping, traveling, and more.

What We Like
Durable and practical for hiking and other outdoor activities
Lightweight and easily foldable for storage
Large capacity and multi-compartment features for organization

SKYSPER 20L Hiking Backpack

LANTC20
Lantc20-darkgray
SKYSPER 20L Hiking Backpack Cover
SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack, 20L Lightweight Travel Backpacks Hiking Daypack for Women Men

The SKYSPER 20L Hiking Backpack is a lightweight and water-resistant daypack designed for outdoor activities. Made of high-density 600D polyester and 210D nylon plaid fabric, it is tear-resistant and wear-resistant. It features multiple compartments, an anti-theft zipper, adjustable and removable straps, and an outdoor emergency rescue guide. Customers praise its quality construction, lightweight design, and convenient compartments.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Comfortable and adjustable straps
Multiple pockets for organization
Durable and sturdy construction
Good value for price
#TOP 5

WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Backpack

ONJ01-08-US
A-teal Blue
WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Backpack Cover
WATERFLY Small Lightweight Packable Backpack: 20l Ultra Light Foldable Travel Hiking Camping Daypack Day Pack for Man Woman

The WATERFLY Packable Backpack is a versatile and convenient travel accessory. Weighing only 290g/10.2oz, this lightweight backpack is easy to carry and fold. With a 20L capacity, it provides ample space for all your essentials, making it suitable for various occasions such as travel, hiking, and camping. The backpack is made of recycled nylon, ensuring durability, and features a polyester lining and durable SBS zipper. Its compact design measures 432914 CM/16.911.45.5 IN when unfolded and 2216 CM/8.76.3 IN when folded. Stay organized on your adventures with this WATERFLY Packable Backpack.

What We Like
Lightweight and compact design
Durable material and construction
Multiple useful pockets
Comfortable for long wear
Easy to fold for storage

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
#TOP 7

Venture Pal Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack

VP023-Green
A1-green
Venture Pal Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Cover
Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack

The Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack is a durable and versatile backpack perfect for sports, hiking, and camping. It features upgraded wet pocket design to separate sweaty clothes or other personal items, durable tear and water-resistant nylon fabric, compact and comfortable design with breathable mesh shoulder straps, and large capacity with multi-compartment design. It can easily fold into its own pocket for storage and is a must-have for all-purpose carrying bag for traveling.

What We Like
Durable and high-quality material
Compact and lightweight design
Large capacity with multi-compartment design

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
#TOP 9

4Monster Lightweight Hiking Daypack

BP-40D
Blue
4Monster Lightweight Hiking Daypack Cover
4Monster Hiking Daypack,Water Resistant Lightweight Packable Backpack for Travel Camping Outdoor (Blue, 16L)

The 4Monster Lightweight Hiking Daypack is a water-resistant and durable backpack that weighs only 4 ounces and can be folded to fit in a pocket. Its tear-resistant 30D nylon fabric prevents scratches, and its strengthened stitches ensure long-term use. The backpack provides ample storage space with a main zipper pocket, a front zipper pocket, and two mesh side pockets. It is ideal for outdoor travel, camping, hiking, day trips, shopping, and international travel at the airport.

What We Like
Water-resistant material effectively prevents rainwater from wetting items in the backpack
Durable 30D nylon fabric prevents scratches from branches, stones, and keys
Ample storage space with multiple pockets for outdoor activities and travel

SKYSPER 15L Folding Hiking Backpack

IMINIX15
Black
SKYSPER 15L Folding Hiking Backpack Cover
SKYSPER 15L Foldable Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Travel Daypack with Chest Strap Small Outdoor Folding Back Pack Collapsible Bag for Women Men (Black)

The SKYSPER Foldable Backpack is designed for your outdoor adventures. It features a spacious main compartment and multiple pockets, allowing you to easily organize your travel essentials. The upgraded chest strap enhances your comfort, helping to distribute weight evenly and reduce shoulder strain. When folded, this backpack is compact and portable, fitting effortlessly into your luggage or car. Weighing just 0.75 pounds, it is made from durable polyester fabric, ensuring it withstands the rigors of travel while remaining lightweight. This combination of features makes it an ideal choice for hiking, day trips, and everyday use.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Spacious with multiple compartments
Comfortable chest strap
Durable construction
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best size daypack for hiking?

21–35 liters: This is the sweet spot for most hiking and travel daypacks. There's enough capacity to hold food, clothing and some extras, like a camera and a book. 36–50 liters: These larger packs are ideal for trips that require additional clothing and gear, such as climbing, mountaineering or non-summer hiking.

2. Are Eddie Bauer backpacks good for hiking?

The bag functions as a perfect day hiking bag as it includes two water bottle storage pouches. The bag is large enough to store a sweater or additional clothing. For a daypack, the bag fully serves its function to hold and help transport goods.

Editor's Notes

During our lightweight hiking daypack research, we found 24 lightweight hiking daypack products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 318,969 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lightweight hiking daypacks list. We found that most customers choose lightweight hiking daypacks with an average price of $21.13.

The lightweight hiking daypacks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lightweight hiking daypacks, including ZOMAKE, G4Free, WATERFLY, SKYSPER, MIYCOO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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.