Top 8: The Best Daypacks to Try out This Season

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When it comes to outdoor enthusiasts, a must have necessity for any outdoor lover is a great daypack. At its conception, a daypack allows you to carry along all your belongings that you will need for a day of exploration. There are many features that distinguish a daypack. In fact, there are differnt types of daypacks depending on your specific needs. Having the right daypack with you can make or break your adventure. For example, if you are going on a long hike, having a daypack that can properly store your fluids will ensure that you stay hydrated throught the day.

In today's review, we are going to take a look at some of the best daypacks on the market right now. Not only that, but we will dive deep into some our top favorite daypacks. In our review, you can look forward to learning about some of the top features you should consider when you are shopping the best daypacks. After that, you will find a list of our picks of some of the best daypacks to choose from. We will also dive into the nitty gritty of each day pack. This way you are sure to find the best daypack that will meet all your travel needs.

Product	Rating	Prices
Deuter Speed Lite 20 Athletic Daypack	4 out of 5	See Today's Price
Osprey Talon 22 Daypack	5 out of 5	See Today's Price
Osprey Stratos 24 Daypack	4.5 out of 5	See Today's Price
CamelBak Fourteener 24 Hydration Daypack	5 out of 5	See Today's Price
Fjallraven High Coast Trail 26	4.5 out of 5	See Today's Price
Gregory Men’s Inertial 20 L Daypack	4.5 out of 5	See Today's Price
Osprey Daylite Daypack	4.5 out of 5	See Today's Price
Patagonia Black Hole Backpack 25 L	4.5 out of 5	See Today's Price

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What Are Things to Consider in a Great Daypack?

With most any outdoor gear, not all things are made the same. This is especially true when it comes to picking out the best daypacks. When it's time to shop for the best daypacks, there are a couple things you need to keep in mind. Here are some of the top features that separate one daypack from another

1. Storage

Because a good daypack is all about organizing your belongings, one of the best daypacks is one that emphasizes storage. From the simplest ones to the most complex ones, the best daypacks offer an ample amount of interior and exterior organization. That way, you will always be able to bring along your snacks and fluids throughout your travels.

2. Versatility

Another primary feature of daypacks is versatility. Daypacks differ from traditional backpacks in more than one ways. The versatility, however, is probably one of the main ways. Most daypacks tend to be a lot more compact than traditional backpacks are. Not only that, but their versatility allows them to be taken out in most any adventure with ease. You can seamlessly translate from indoor use to outdoor use without too much difficulty. Along with the versatility, there is a range of daypacks that you can choose from. Today’s review will go over easy to pack daypacks for daily use. Not only that, but we have listed some of the more heavy duty daypacks for more rigorous adventures.

3. Comfort

When it comes to comfort, not all daypacks are made the same either. When you are shopping for a daypack, you want to find one that is the best fit for your body type. For many, this means shopping for a daypack that offers an ample amount of cushion and padding in the straps. For others, this may mean having less cushion and padding. When you are looking for the best daypacks, you will want to keep a close eye on the comfort and support provided.

4. Sizing

Another one of the great features that you need to keep in mind when shopping for the best daypacks is carrying capacity. Most daypacks will generally range in their carrying capacity. You can find daypack that offers carrying capacity of 20 L all the way up to daypack that has a carrying capacity of 35 L. For more heavy duty daypacks, there are even carrying capacities that go up to 50L.

When you are shopping for the best daypacks, the size of your daypack really depends on what you need your daypack to do for you. For example, some travelers might want to opt for a smaller daypack if they typically go out on daily excursions that do not last the whole day. For travelers who are out from sunup to sundown, a day pack with a larger capacity load will allow you to keep up with your travel needs. Larger sizes will ensure that you have enough room in your day pack will allow you to carry all the food and water that you need.

5. Functions and Features

Of course, with all daypacks, you will find a range of functions and features from one brand to another. Travelers can expect to find a range of daypacks when they are shopping for their own. For example, there are some daypacks that feature nothing more than just a main housing compartment and a side pocket. For other day packs however, there are additional features like suspension for better support and fit along with added cushion in areas like the straps and hit belts. There are even some day packs that offer additional trinkets that will allow you to bring along some of your outdoor gear including helmets, skis, and add on hydration systems. For more modern travelers, you can even find some great daypacks that come with some technological capabilities.

Style

Lastly, one of the top things that you should consider in any daypack is the overall style. For some travelers, the way a daypack looks can be a determining factor in whether or not you invest in it. The good news is, with the evolvement and plethora of choice available, travelers are sure to find the right daypack for their needs. You do not have to worry about sacrificing your sense of style when you are looking for a great daypack. In today's review, we have included some of our favorite styles including simple styles, rugged styles, and simply stylish styles.

Here Are Our Picks for the Best Winter Daypacks

Deuter Speed Lite 20 Athletic Daypack

One of the best daypacks to consider in your travels is the Deuter Speed Lite. There are so many reasons that this is one of the best daypacks on the market right now. For starters, it comes from a reputable brand. Deuter is known for their attention to detail when it comes to crafting some of the best outdoor products. Along with that, the Deuter Speed Lite is great for a range of outdoor activities. Not only is it comfortable, but it is perfect when it comes to ventilation. If you are outside in the heat, the Deuter Speed Lite offers pristine ventilation so that you do not feel overly weighed down by your daypack.

While there are not many downsides to the Deuter Speed Lite, travelers should consider the amount of padding that is on this daypack. Many travelers prefer optimal comfort and padding when it comes to the straps. However, the Deuter Speed Lite does not offer much padding. In fact, some might even say that the downside to this daypack is the lack of padding, specifically on the hip belt. However, because this is a 20 L capacity daypack, the lack of excess padding may be understandable. If you are going out for half a day hiking Adventures, this would be the best day pack to bring along with you.

Tech Specs:

Streamlined design for faster paced outdoor activities.
checkUltralight daypack. Lightweight and easy to bring with you on all your travels.
checkErgonomic and adjustable. Features a flexible Delrin U-Frame that helps stabilize and distribute the weight load for optimal comfort.
Stabilizing hip wings, chest strap, AirMesh shoulder straps, and waist belt are fully adjustable to each wearer's dimensions
checkSpecialized compartments for wet gear or clothing, valuables, hydration system. Additional mesh side pockets allow you to store snacks and water bottles.
checkDeuter is a leader in the Fair Wear Foundation, building ultra-durable packs with an emphasis on proper labor conditions and materials.
Comes in a range of sizes including 12, 16, 20, 24, 32L.
Comes in a range of colors to meet the needs of every traveler.

Pros

plus Versatile for a range of activities including hiking, alpine hiking, summit backpacking, and daily activities
plus Comfortable fit
plusLightweight
plusDurable
plusLow price point
plusMade in America
plusComes with a limited lifetime warranty

Cons

close Hipbelt is not padded

Osprey Talon 22 Daypack

The Osprey Talon 22 is another one of the best daypacks to choose for your adventures. For starters, Osprey is an incredibly reputable brand that puts out nothing but the best when it comes to outdoor product. Along with that, Osprey is one of the few brands that offer a lifetime guarantee on all the products that they put out.

The Osprey Talon 22 offers everything that a traveler might be looking for in a daypack. For starters, this daypack comes in a range of sizes including 11, 18, 22, and 33 L. If you are going on a shorter adventure, or an everyday outing, then the 22 L size can be a great fit. However, if you are going on a more demanding adventure, then you will want to go with the larger size. Travelers can have a range of options when they are shopping this daypack. When it comes to the actual storage, there is an incredible amount of storage in this daypack. To help accompany that storage, travelers will see that there is some stretching due to the material that allows it to stretch and become more snug if you need it to be.

When it comes to the cushion, travelers will be pleased with this daypack as well. The hip belt features comfortable cushioning that gives you just enough comfort when you are trekking around. Along with that, there is an ample sense of snuggest depending on which type you choose. You can find the Osprey Talon 22 in a men's fit and A Woman's fit. This option in fit makes your ability to make this daypack unique to you that much easier.

Lastly, because of the cushioning, the Osprey Talon 22 will allow you to feel the contents of your back. Especially because the back panel of your daypack is rather thin. For some, this might be a downside because you are able to feel your belongings as you travel. However, because of the ample cushioning in both the hip belt and the straps, not too many travelers mind.

Tech Specs:

Osprey’s Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment system is designed to quickly attach and carry trekking poles while wearing a pack or making a quick scramble through rough terrain.
Lidlock helmet attachment for easy carry of bike helmets.
Two zippered hipbelt pockets keep snacks and essentials secure and quickly accessible on the go.
checkExternal hydration sleeve in the backpanel simplifies refilling and protects pack content from spills.
checkDual stretch mesh side pockets provide accessible storage options and allows travelers to compress and secure loads even while side pockets are in use.
checkA mesh covered, die-cut slotted foam hipbelt and harness is used to create a perfectly formed fit. The seamless lumbar to hipbelt body wrap creates extra support for those long days on the trail.
Ample versatility allows you to travel in a range of terrains.
Comes in a range of capacities including 11, 18, 22, and 33L.
Light weight daypack measuring in at 1 lb 11 oz.

Pros

plus Great price point
plus Trusted brand
plus Versatile
plus Available in both men's fit and women's fit.
plusBreathable material makes for a comfortable daypack on long adventures.
plusComes in a range of colors for every type of traveler.

Cons

close Limited support
Thin backing enables you to feel all the contents of your daypack

Osprey Stratos 24 Daypack

If you are looking for a great day pack that also serves as a heavy duty daypack, then the Osprey Stratos 24 is one of the best daypacks to choose from. For starters, This daypack offers everything you need when it comes to durability. It is loaded with features that will allow you to travel with everything you need in tow.

When it comes to the capacities sizes of the Osprey Stratos, there is plenty for you to choose from. There are 24, 34, 36, and an impressive 50 L capacity options. Along with that, this daypack is super durable. It features a metal frame and a substantial hip belt. These features allow you to evenly distribute your weight. In addition, this daypack was built for a range of outdoor adventures. This allows you to have one of the most versatile daypacks when you are going outdoors.

Lastly, the storage on this bag is what makes it one of the best daypacks around. You have storage options including zippered pockets across the main compartments and two hip belt pockets for easy to reach items. If you are looking for a great day pack that is super durable than the Osprey Stratos 24 is one of the best daypacks on the market right now.

Tech Specs:

Durable material including ripstop, nylon, and mesh webbing.
Osprey’s Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment system is designed to quickly attach and carry trekking poles while wearing a pack or making a quick scramble through rough terrain.
Integrated and removable rain cover allows you to stay protected from the elements, Easy stowaway of your tools available as well.
checkTwo zippered hipbelt pockets keep snacks and essentials secure and quickly accessible on the go
checkSpecific pocket for your hydration reservoir allowing for easy access and stable handling.
checkAirspeed Suspension allows for optimal comfort. Along with comfort, ventilated tensioned mesh backpanel with added adjustability for variations in torso length to provide fine-tuned customization fit for every hiker and backpacker.
checkFront panel vertical center zippered pocket allow you to keep larger items including maps and gloves easily accessible.
Top panel zippered stash allows you to keep snacks and smaller items easily accessible.
Ice tool loop allows you the versatility of carrying around the tools that allow you explore tough terrain.
Comes in a range of capacities including: 24, 34, 36, 50L.

Pros

plus Versatile and adaptable for a range of environments
plus Durable material
plusGreat price point
plusComes in a range of colors for every traveler.
plusEasy access pockets
plusComes in a range of capacity
plusBacked by a trusted brand

Cons

close Heavy for its capacity

CamelBak Fourteener 24 Hydration Daypack

There are a range of features that make this next bag one of the best daypacks on the market. For starters, what makes this daypack one of the best daypacks is the fact that it comes from a reputable brand. The Camelbak Fourteener 24 is one of the best daypacks on the market for several reasons. For starters, this is a great day pack if you are looking for a heavy duty component to pack all your gear in. The Camelbak fourteener 24 measures in at 2 lb and 9 oz. When it comes to capacity, you can find it in 20 liter capacities and 24 liter capacity.

Are there benefits of this day pack is the fact that it comes with a great back panel. This means that the contents of your back will not be digging into you as you are outdoor Explorer. Not only that, but there is plenty of storage offered with the steak hack. Interior and exterior Pockets allow you to store everything you need with Eve. Finally, one of the standout features of this day pack is the fact that England includes a hydration system. In any Adventure, hydration is key. So add a pack that offers a hydration system is simply one of the best detox to choose from.

Tech Specs:

3-liter crux resistors allows for faster flow rate and powers longer adventures.
checkDual wing belt offers seamlessly integrated cargo compression. This enables travelers a variety of options for additional essentials storage.
Stretch over flow pockets allow travelers to quickly stash or shed a layer or rain shell.
Easily attach and remove poles when needed
Air support back panels are innovative air tunnels that maximize ventilation all while keeping load close to your body for increased stability.

Pros

plus Durable
plus Dual wing belt offers optimal comfort
plusAdjustable for a range of travelers
plusGreat daypack for long adventures.
plusTrusted brand
plusOffers a range of storage options.
plusComes in a range of colors for every type of traveler.

Cons

close Durable daypack, however, not as comfortable as some of its competitors.

Fjallraven High Coast Trail 26

This next daypack is one of the best daypacks if simplicity is your goal. The Fjallraven High Coast Trail 26 is a great daypack for so many reasons. For starters, it is from the reputable brand Fjallraven. This brand is known for making top quality outdoor gear that is as stunning and stylish as it is dependable and durable. Fjallraven has exploded in the Nordic countries. More recently, it has started making a splash in the western hemisphere of the world.

For starters, the Fjallraven High Coast Trail 26 offers only what you need in a daypack. There are no additional bells and whistles that will weigh you down during your travels. Because of this, this is the perfect daypack to bring along if you typically go on short outdoor adventures. If you are looking for a heavy duty daypack, then this daypack is not the best fit for you.

What we love about Fjallraven High Coast Trail 26 is the fact that it offers just enough storage and all the right places. Exterior pockets allow for easy access for your snacks and fluids when you are on the road. Not only that, but this daypack is perfect when it comes to comfort. It has a nice solid fit that will not bug you while you are out and about.

Lastly, what makes this one of the best daypacks is the fact that it fits the style of nearly every type of traveler. The Fjallraven High Coast Trail 26 comes in a range of colors. This vast selection will allow you to find the daypack that most fits your sense of style. If you are looking for a great day pack thought offers all the standards without the bells and whistles, then Fjallraven High Coast Trail 26 is one of the best daypacks on the market for you to choose from.

Tech Specs:

Great storage capabilities. Includes zippered front pocket with a smaller inside pocket. On the outside, you will find expandable side pockets with strap adjustments.
Made from recycled polyester and organic cotton (65% Polyester, 35% cotton).
All-around daypack for trail hikes or daily commutes. Great for everyday use.
checkLight and stable in its construction
Offers an ample amount of comfort and durability.
Sweden-based Fjallraven offers a unique design to your outdoor adventure gear.

Pros

plus Stylish
plus Comes in a range of colors for a range of travelers
plus Great for everyday use
plus Translates easily from outdoor use to indoor use
plus Durable construction
plusBacked by the trusted Sweedish brand, Fjallraven

Cons

close Is a bit on the pricier side for a standard daypack

close Not designed to carry a heavy load

SOREL Men's Caribou

This next daypack is one of the best daypacks if you are looking for versatility. The Gregory Men’s Inertial 20 L Daypack is great for so many reasons. For starters, it is incredibly durable. In fact, it is one of the most durable daypacks you can get your hands on. It features a ventilated back panel that allows for optimal breathability when you are on the road.

Another standout feature of the Gregory Men’s Inertial 20 L Daypack is the fact that it is super comfortable. It comes with plenty of padded components that will keep you snug throughout your adventures. You will find an adjustable padded hip belt and shoulder harness that not only offers ample padding but ample ventilation too. These components feature a ventilated mesh material. This mesh keeps you feeling cool and comfortable throughout the day.

When it comes to packing along your belongings, travelers are sure to love all the storage capabilities that this daypack has offers. You can easily store away all your belongings. On the inside, you will find ample storage to keep everything organized. On the outside, there are quick access pockets that enabled you to grab what you need with ease.

What makes this one of the best daypacks on the market is the fact that you can take it on nearly any adventure. It is perfect for day hiking, alpine hiking, and even daily commuting. For a moderate capacity daypack, the Gregory Men’s Inertial 20 L Daypack is one of the best daypacks on the market.

Tech Specs:

Mesh encapsulated ventilated back panel design keeps you cool and dry on the trail.
Adjustable, padded hip belt and shoulder harness with ventilated air mesh for all day comfort.
Featuring Gregory's proprietary 3D QuickDry soft-molded technology, integrated drying hanger and anatomical fit.
checkQuick access to water bottles and an extra layer.
checkWith SpeedClip mounting system. This hanger system allows one-handed, snap-and-go reservoir installation and stabilizes the weight in the center of your back.
Magnetic sternum strap allows for one handed magnetic buckling of strap and integrated magnetic linkage for the DryLock bite valve.
Great for everyday use including walking, hiking, biking, and alpine adventures.
checkWEIGHT: 1.41 lbs. DIMENSIONS: 20.1″ x 11.4″ x 8.25″.

Pros

plus Trekking pole attachment system
plus Zippered quick access pocket
plusMesh encapsulated back panel
plusOptimal padding and optimal comfort

Cons

close None

Osprey Daylite Daypack

This next daypack is one of the best daypacks on the market. For starters, it is another one of the daypacks from the Osprey line. Osprey is known for their dedication to attention and detail when it comes to their products. In terms of the Osprey Daylite Daypack, Travelers will be pleasantly surprised.

For starters, the Osprey Daylite Daypack offers everything you would want in a reliable Daypack. Not only that, but travelers will get a standout product that will withstand the elements without the bulky or rugged look that many travelers do not like. The overall style of the Osprey Daylite Daypack is a sleek and stylish one. In fact, the Osprey Daylite Daypack comes in a range of colors so that you can find the one that is the best fit for you. When it comes to the specific features of the Osprey Daylite Daypack, travelers will be pleasantly impressed as well. Here are the fine specs that travelers can look forward to.

Firstly, the Osprey Daylite Daypack offers an ample amount of cushion and comfort. The back panel offers a rather comfortable fit that is both well cushioned and ventilated. Because of this ventilation, you can expect to be nice and cool throughout your adventures. In addition to that, travelers will not feel their personal belongings digging into their back while they are on the trail.

The comfort and padding extends to the hip belt as well. The hip belt and shoulder harness are both equipped with ventilated air mesh that enables continued comfort throughout the day. Along with that, travelers can look forward to the 3D quick dry soft molded technology used in this daypack. This technology will keep travelers not only comfortable but cool throughout their travels. If you tend to do a lot of hiking in the warmer months, then this can be a great day pack to consider bringing along with you on your travels.

Lastly, travelers are sure to love the storage available on the Osprey Daylite Daypack. There are plenty of interior pockets to store all your hiking gear with ease. Not only that, but the exterior pockets are where the Osprey Daylite Daypack really shines. Travelers will have quick access to their belongings thanks to the front zipper pocket with mesh organizer and key clips.

Tech Specs:

Large panel loading main compartment provides accessibility to inside contents
Dual stretch mesh side pockets provide additional storage options
The front zippered pocket with mesh organizer and key clip offers organizations for smaller items
checkThe multi-function interior sleeve can be used for either a Osprey Hydraulics reservoir or tablet. Adjustable sternum strap with whistle. Not applicable for Daylite Sling
checkMesh-covered die-cut foam backpanel provides both comfort and ventilation
checkOsprey's All Mighty Guarantee gives you a sense of security in purchasing an Osprey product.

Pros

plus Backed by a trusted brand
plus Great point
plus Durable
plus Hydration pocket
plus Attachment capabilities
plus Lightweight and comfortable fit
plusInternal laptop pocket
plusComfortable back panel
plusComes in a range of colors

Cons

close None

Patagonia Black Hole 25 L Daypack

If you love the rugged outdoors, then this next daypack is perhaps one of the best daypacks on the market to choose from. The Patagonia Black Hole 25 L Daypack Is a winner for so many reasons. For starters, the rugged outdoors are no challenge for this daypack. The materials used for the Patagonia Black Hole 25 L Daypack are simply the best. Travelers can expect to find a light and strong ripstop material with a highly weather proof TPU laminate. This material is capped with a durable water-repellent finish. This means that you can take your daypack along with you in any environment and you are sure to be met with protection.

When it comes to the main compartment of the Patagonia Black Hole 25 L Daypack, simplicity is key. Travelers can expect to find a main compartment with padded sleeves. These padded sleeves will easily hold everything from your jacket to your snacks to additional fluids. Speaking of fluids, travelers will enjoy the fact that the stretch woven pockets hold a wide range of water bottle shapes and sizes. When it comes to the Patagonia Black Hole 25 L Daypack, less is certainly more.

This is a terrific daypack that is perfect for taking along with you on your adventures. This is especially a great daypack if you are looking for something that will get the job done in any rough environment. Without a doubt, the Patagonia Black Hole 25 L Daypack is easily one of the best daypacks on the market right now.

Tech Specs:

Light and strong polyester ripstop with highly weatherproof TPU laminate and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish
Easy-access main compartment with padded sleeve holds most 15″ laptops; zippered top pocket for small items
Stretch-woven pockets hold a wide range of water-bottle shapes and sizes
check13-oz 450-denier 100% polyester ripstop (50% solution-dyed) with a TPU-film laminate and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. Fabric is certified as bluesign approved
checkWeight: 680 g (1 lb 8 oz)

Pros

plus Lightweight and comfortable
plus Durable
plus Built for the rugged outdoors
plus Trusted brand
plus Great price point
plusWaterproof material

Cons

close Not stylish – the rugged look may not be suitable for all travelers

Common Questions

If you are ready to take the plunge in purchasing one of the best daypacks on the market right now, then be sure to check out some of our top picks. Lastly, be sure to check out some of our links below for additiona information oabout picking the best daypack for your travels. Not only have we laid out for you the main differences between reguralr backpacks and standard daypacks, we have gone of some additional tips that you need to know. Click on our links below before you head oyt on your next adventure.

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Nadia El

Nadia El-Yaouti is a mother, English language arts middle school teacher, writer, and photographer. She lives in Central Virginia with her husband and two little girls. Although she considers herself a workaholic, Nadia’s greatest pride is being a mom. When she’s not juggling work, you can be sure to find her traveling the world with her little family.