10 Best Daypacks for Hiking in 2022 (Outdoor Guide-Reviewed)

Pros:

• Made of ripstop nylon
• Has padded shoulder straps
• Has a breathable mesh back
• Has chest and hip straps
• Comes with a hydration slot and pouch

Cons:

• Weighs two pounds empty
  

This daypack is effectively sized to be a comfortable daypack for people of all body sizes. It's complete with a hydration bladder and a sewn-in rain cover for longer hikes and less-than-ideal weather conditions. Its attached compression straps ensure that your load is as condensed as possible at all times!

A few reviewers expressed issues with the hydration bladder not working properly, but many reviewers are pleasantly surprised with how adjustable the pack is and its durability on difficult hikes. The majority of users recommend it, highlighting how comfortable and versatile it is.

Pros:

• Made of ripstop polyester
• Has padded adjustable shoulder straps
• Two water bottle holders
• Has a front zip pocket for easy access to small items

Cons:

• Doesn't have chest or hip straps

This daypack has everything you need for a comfortable day hike, like two water bottle holders, a variety of pockets, adjustable straps, water-resistant fabric, and mesh lining, yet it can also be packed down into a pocket-sized pack for traveling. It comes in nine different unique designs and colors, too!

Many users feel the bag makes good use of its space, saying it has room for all the day trip essentials, but note that it can dig into your shoulders hard if you load it up with anything heavy. But other users love that it's lightweight, and they're happy at how easily it folds into itself.

Pros:

• Has a padded back that comes off to double as a sit pad
  
• Breathable shoulder straps
• Has chest and waist straps
• Hydration reservoir compatible
• Made with recycled materials

Cons:

• Hydration reservoir not included
• Shoulder straps are narrow and can dig in
  

With a soft mesh back, a removable back panel that can be used as a seat pad, and both a waistbelt and sternum straps for even weight distribution, this is a great option for those who want to prioritize comfort in their hikes. The bag is also made sustainably, so you can further show your appreciation for Mother Nature!

Some reviewers say not to pack too heavy because the backpack straps are on the thinner side and can dig into your shoulders easily. However, most find it really easy to use. Many people say it's good for both short and long day hikes. It also seems to fit everyone, from children to those over six feet tall.

Pros:

• Made of ripstop polyester
• Has padded shoulder straps
• Has a cooling back panel
• Hydration reservoir compatible

Cons:

• Doesn't have a hip strap
• Doesn't come with the hydration reservoir

Large enough to carry all your essentials and then some, this is a great daypack for the prepared hiker. The material is durable and weather-resistant, so you'll be protected against any unexpected rough patches on your hike. If you like multi-purpose bags, this is also a great everyday bag, complete with a laptop compartment.

A couple of reviewers say a bag this size would be more comfortable with a waist belt strap. However, most reviewers love this bag because of its versatility and are incredibly happy with its quality and durability.

Pros:

• Made of ripstop nylon
• Has mesh shoulder straps
• Has chest and hip straps
• Ultralight
• Hydration sleeve
  

Cons:

• Not waterproof
• The colors may be different from what's on the website
  

This structureless bag is created by repurposing ripstop nylon that's sewn together for a one-of-a-kind daypack. This bag keeps it simple but includes a drawstring closure and an internal hydration bladder.

A few reviewers say the drawstring is hard to close fully, but on the other hand, many reviewers are excited about this bag because of its unique color schemes and how lightweight it is. They recommend it for travel and everyday use as well as short hikes.

Pros:

• Has a padded shoulder strap
• Has a cooling back panel
• Two water bottle pouches and a phone pocket
  
• Very lightweight

Cons:

• Has no additional weight distribution straps
• Smaller than most daypacks

The design of this crossbody daypack makes it incredibly efficient and light to hike with. This daypack is still relatively roomy for its size, even fitting up to an iPad Mini and a water bottle. There is also a hidden headphone hole, so you can listen to your favorite hiking playlist or podcast.

Some reviewers are unhappy with the placement of the phone pocket, feeling it could have been better structured. But many other reviewers don't seem to mind and express overall happiness with the comfortable size of the bag. They say it's good for a variety of uses, including hiking, cycling, and more.

Pros:

• Mesh shoulder straps and back for breathability
  
• Has chest and hip straps
• Two water bottle holders
• Weighs under a pound
  

Cons:

• No port for a hydration reservoir

This is a great bag for hiking and beyond. This versatile daypack is ready for any weather conditions that may come its way. It's lightweight, waterproof, breathable, and comes with a lot of features that can store equipment for any activity. It's suggested for any outdoor sports like hiking, climbing, and cycling.

For the most part, people are fans of the backpack and how comfortable and versatile it is, but some reviewers found it too small for them. Buyers with small frames and those who bought one for a child say it's perfect!

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight at 2.5 ounces
  
• Has enforced stitching at stress points
• Has two-way zip closures for extra zipping security
• Can pack down into a small bag

Cons:

• Not waterproof
• Not recommended for extended hikes

With a simple two-way zip closure and nylon material, this bag is a no-frills daypack. It's especially great for the traveling hiker because of its extreme packability; you can even fit it in your pocket or onto the attached carabiner! This is good for people who like to go on hikes wherever they travel.

A couple of reviewers wish that it had more features. It's a no-frills option! On the other hand, many love this pack for its portability and ease of use. They say it's great for day trips and hikes.

Pros:

• IPX8 waterproof
• Mesh padded shoulder straps and back
  
• Has two water bottle holders
  
• It floats
  

Cons:

• Doesn't have hip straps
• Weighs two pounds empty
  

This unique daypack is perfect for adventurous hikers who go near water. It's made from waterproof PVC vinyl, making it the perfect bag to keep your items dry during rainstorms, canoe trips, or while crossing a river.

Some reviewers say that this pack's water bottle holders are loose and poorly designed, and that larger bottles fall out. But reviewers love this bag overall, especially how good it is at keeping all of your belongings dry throughout any adventure.

Pros:

• Padded shoulder and hip straps with pockets
  
• Internal frame to distribute weight
  
• Has a cooling back panel
• Hydration reservoir compatible
• Raincover
• Sleeping bag compartment
  

Cons:

• Weighs over three pounds
  
• Doesn't come with the hydration reservoir

An external reservoir sleeve, a sleeping bag compartment, dual tuckaway attachments, a top lid with zippered pockets, a front panel hideaway pocket, dual side meshed pockets, and so much more make this bag the organized hiker's dream. If you like to have specific compartments for different items, this is a great daypack.

A few reviewers have a hard time with how small the waist belt pocket is, wishing it were bigger to make room for a cell phone. However, most reviewers praise this bag for its great back ventilation and plenty of storage space. They say it's light, comfortable, and has plenty of space, making it a great bag for day, or unexpected overnight, trips!