Tested: The Best Hiking Backpacks For Day Hikes

Even if you’re only out on the trail for a couple of hours, a quality day pack is still a crucial component to your hiking loadout, affording a comfortable, secure, and convenient means of transporting all of your necessary gear. Largely characterized by their durability, hiking backpacks are more resistant to abrasions and the elements than regular EDC and work bags, while also typically offering superior fitment, weight distribution, stability, and comfort. To make it easier for you to pick the right one for your next excursion, we tested our favorite hiking backpacks and now present you with a guide that showcases the best of the best.

How We Tested

Over the years the daypack market has been inundated with a barrage of purpose-engineered day-hiking backpacks, all ranging in volume, style, and construction. And while this has ultimately resulted in dozens of genuinely stellar bags that are currently in production, it’s also made sifting through the sea of available offerings a decidedly daunting task — an area compounded by the slew of new models released each season. So, to help simplify your search and get you headed down the right path, we did a lot of the legwork for you, compiling a shortlist of potential “best” hiking backpacks based on criteria such as brand reputation, aesthetic, size, material, and capacity.

From there, we acquired units for testing and got to spend time with each one out on the trail, looking at elements such as comfort, fit, organization, durability, and utility. The entire process took weeks but we’re now able to present you with the best hiking backpacks, detailing what we liked and didn’t like about each one.

What to Look For

Construction & Durability: Considering that they have to stand up to the elements along with other abuse from the trail, it’s incredibly important for hiking backpacks to feature ultra-hardwearing properties. These are typically achieved by making bags from proven rugged materials such as high-denier nylons and other constructions that excel at fending off water or abrasions. Just as important as the materials comprising the bag is the construction technique(s) that was/were used to marry the materials together.

Comfort & Fitment: Hiking backpacks have hugely evolved over the years, with manufacturers discovering methods of delivering ample structural support and a precise ergonomic fit that evenly distributes weight without the use of a traditional exoskeleton chassis. On top of integrated frames, this is made possible through the use of shoulder straps supplemented via sternum and waist straps that help to distribute weight. Padding across the straps and over the back panel will also play a pivotal role in comfort, as well as air channels for back ventilation.

Volume & Storage: Typically measured in liters, the amount of available real estate offered by a bag will determine how much gear it can accommodate. This will obviously dictate the backpack’s overall size. It’s also worth pointing out that there are plenty of bags with MOLLE webbing or other supplementary attachment points that allow you take carry extra gear on the outside of the bag.

Amenities: In addition to PALS and MOLLE webbing, many of today’s hiking-specific backpacks also boast features such as water bottle holders and/or hydration bladders and mounts and loops for hiking poles and other gear. It’s also become increasingly common to see thoroughly ruggedized hiking bags with dedicated padded pockets for cameras, smartphones, and other sensitive mobile gadgets. Modular attachment elements have also started to become increasingly popular in the space.

Main Compartment Closure: The vast majority of hiking backpacks will sport a main central compartment that comprises the bulk of the bag’s total internal volume. How one goes about accessing these main compartments can vary, however, with some employing classic zipper closures while others have opted for roll-top-style items — the former of which affords better convenience while the latter has traditionally offered superior weatherproofing.

Brand: While there are admittedly acceptions and outliers, the lion’s share of the more reputable bag and gear manufacturers tend to exhibit pretty consistent quality across the board for their entire catalog. Because it can at times be difficult to gain a sense of a backpack’s overall durability, quality, or fit and finish, opting to buy from a trusted brand with a well-proven track record for producing quality gear is a pretty solid way of ensuring you end up with a stellar bag.

The North Face Surge

Best Urban Style for the Trail: Though initially best-known for its outdoor gear, The North Face has increasingly become a major player in the streetwear and urban garments and gear space. And the fabled brand’s Surge Backpack leans into this shifting identity with a ruggedized daypack containing a robust suite of pockets and organizers typically reserved for EDC and work bags, enabling you to seamlessly transition from the office to the backcountry. Produced in nine color options, the Surge has been outfitted with TNF’s FlexVent suspension system, an external fleece-lined electronics and sunglasses compartment, a dedicated laptop compartment, a pair of external water bottle pockets, and an adjustable sternum strap with an integrated emergency whistle. Not to mention, the suspension is certified by the American Chiropractic Association.

The Good

The obvious benefit of the Surge Backpack is how well it belongs in two completely discordant environments, becoming a Venn diagram of sorts between the two. If anything, this looks like a commuter bag more than it does a hiking pack. But as soon as you take it out on the trail, you’ll see how well it performs. You can’t help but notice the sheer number of compartments and pocket variety. Aside from the three large compartments, each serving its own unique purpose from the laptop protector in the back to the tech gear pouch, you also have a pair of vertical pockets in front. I loved how these were designed to overlap one another slightly for added space. There’s also a small pocket above these that’s soft-lined to keep any scuffable items such as sunglasses or cameras.

One might wonder why you’d need so many pockets out on the trail but this gives you options for segmenting your gear. For instance, you can keep your frontmost vertical pocket for items that get wet, while another compartment can be strictly for food –– you probably don’t want these two things to be together or with other dry gear. With all this space, you’d think the Surge were a massive pack but it actually keeps a low profile for carrying 31L.

The Not So Good

In terms of the downsides, the waist strap could have been bigger. I’m a larger individual but there are definitely people even larger than myself who might have a problem using this strap, which doesn’t expand a whole lot. Although, I did love how easy it was to adjust all the straps in general. And while I appreciate the dual water bottle compartments on the sides, I felt they could have been bigger. They couldn’t fit my 32oz flask at all. But at least there are plenty of compartment options to store something like this elsewhere.

Verdict: Incredibly versatile and riddled with pockets and compartments, segmented for a specific purpose, the Surge Backpack from The North Face is a popular choice for a reason. However, we did notice the smaller water bottle compartments and the waist strap that was built for skinny people only. Whether you’re going from the office to the trail or just simply don’t want to dump out all of your work gear before a hike, this is an awesome, affordable bag that most people would get some serious use out of.

Matador Beast18 Ultralight

Best Packable Backpack: A new and improved version of an already excellent bag, Matador’s Beast18 Backpack is an immensely durable item developed specifically for days on the trails. Boasting a Bartack-reinforced waterproof Ultra Tear Strength polyurethane-coated Robic nylon primary construction, this packable bag offers 18 liters of real estate though is still capable of breaking down into an included stuff-sack no bigger than your fist. Other highlights on this technically-focused backpack include Matador’s proprietary flexible frame suspension system, supplementary gear-loops, YKK hardware throughout, a sleeve that can house a 1 to 3-liter hydration reservoir, and EVA foam padding throughout.

the Good

Incredibly low-profile and lightweight, the Beast18 can be rolled up so tightly (when empty) in one hand that your thumb and fingers meet together. While there aren’t a ton of options for organizing (more on that below), there are lots of lashing points, and of different varieties. There’s also a pair of spaced-out adjustable clip hooks on the inside of the rear compartment that could be good for sticking a lunchbox handle through. You can really get creative with these. At first, I thought the side water bottle compartments would be too small for my 32oz bottle but I was surprised with how stretchy they were.

Another thing I liked was the way the rear compartment opened. On just one side, the zipper comes all the way down, while the opposite zipper only goes down about a third of the way. This prevents you from accidentally opening all the way while also giving you the convenience of extra access inside. However, the front-most compartment is pretty darn narrow.

The Not So Good

Compared to some of the other bags on this list, there aren’t a ton of ways to organize this pack. There are two main zippered compartments, with a small zipper pocket in the front compartment and a secondary interior pouch in the back compartment, although the latter is pretty expandable and has a handy clip at the top to keep it shut. However, aside from a tiny hidden zippered compartment reserved exclusively for a key, there are no meaningful options for organizing. Another thing I wasn’t a fan of was the shoulder strap adjustments. I couldn’t adjust on the fly and even when I took the pack off, it took me way to long to get the straps at a good position.

Verdict: Unbelievably small to a fault, the Beast18 from Matador is perfect for quicker jaunts or scrambling. It won’t give you a ton of organization but will do the trick for fans of gear attachments. Our biggest complaint is the finicky shoulder strap adjustments but at least there won’t be a ton of weight to lug around that you’ll need to do this often. Also fairly priced, Matador’s flagship hiking pack is definitely worthy of your consideration.

Topo Designs Mountain Pack

Best Camp-Style Pack: Topo Designs’ aptly-named Mountain Pack was designed to be a do-it-all personal storage vessel, lending itself well equally to both everyday commuting in the city and life out on the trail. This highly versatile yet fashion-forward item boasts an ultra-rugged 200D recycled nylon ripstop exterior with a J-panel front that opens to reveal a 210D coated pack cloth-lined interior containing a laptop pocket and an additional security pocket. The outside of the Mountain Pack features vertical daisy chain webbing, adjustable ice ax loops, side and bottom compression straps, a top carry handle, a breathable mesh back panel, a padded base, heavy-duty plastic hardware, and oversized waterproof YKK zippers.

the Good

If you’re going to notice one thing about the Topo Designs Mountain Pack, it’s going to be the visual look of the bag. Aside from the actual utility of the bag, the symmetrical design language and intriguing color palette used are fair enough reasons to pick up this bag in the first place. We got hands-on with the mustard yellow and burnt orange option but there are a couple of other colorful choices as well. On the back, the bag is very comfortable with an easy-to-adjust shoulder strap and a waist strap that has some bolstered support on the side of your waist as well.

If you’re looking for expandability, the Mountain Pack will come in handy too. While it’s not the most versatile in terms of organization, the backpack is certainly flexible. The main interior compartment can stay tight like a standard drawstring bag but then undoing the side clips allows it to open up, almost box-like, to maximize its space. I love the massive water bottle pockets on the side, and my favorite compartment is the hidden vertical zippered slot on the left.

The Not So Good

There’s a frontside pouch pocket that can be used for keeping your lunch or for segmenting wet clothes. However, for closure, it’s reliant on the side clips which expand the bag. Meaning, it will be rather exposed up top when the bag is expanded. In fact, the backpack doesn’t have great closures in general. Aside from the zipper on the left compartment, the pack utilizes clips and drawstrings. The main compartment features a drawstring cinch that’s rather tricky to get the hang of; it’s not your typical drawstring hardware. And while the whole bag is covered by a lid secured with a G-hook. It’s a durable piece of hardware but still many will prefer the reliability and convenience of a classic zipper here, even if they lose some versatility in the process.

Verdict: While the color schemes may get dirtier than your average black or brown shell, the design of Topo Designs’ Mountain Pack is striking nonetheless. Very comfortable on the back and featuring a versatile main compartment, the bag is admittedly not great for organizing and some may prefer a backpack with zippered closures instead. However, this pack will do the trick for longer stays when you’re simply stuffing clothing and larger gear inside.

Black Diamond Distance 15

Best Small Pack: Hiking backpacks are essential additions to your outdoor loadout but not everyone needs a large 30-liter pack that they’re just going to leave half empty or fill up gratuitously with things they don’t need. Black Diamond has the perfect option for all you light packers with its Distance 15, “a hybrid pack that breaks the barrier between running and ridge scrambling” with just 15L of capacity. With well-optimized space both inside and out, there are also pockets on the front for on-the-go storage and vest-inspired suspension.

the Good

For just a 15-liter pack, there’s a lot that the Black Diamond Distance 15 can do. If you’re a trekker, you’ll love the built-in Z-pole storage sleeves and an array of modular attachment capabilities. Despite its size, the large main compartment still gives you room to organize and separate with a larger interior pouch as well as a zippered mesh pocket.

The two side bungee compartments are also great for stuffing some extra garments or even a water bottle or two. However, they also serve to cinch up the pack to eliminate extra air or space inside when packing it away. Likewise, there are two sleeves for piolet storage. If that’s not enough, each of the shoulder straps has a built-in water bottle sleeve that can stretch to fit larger flasks, while a smaller zippered compartment lets you fit in smaller gear like a wallet, keys, or a phone. I liked the accessibility of these items at my torso unlike on other bags where you have to reach back to get to them.

The Not So Good

Like we said, there’s a lot that this Black Diamond bag can do but the myriad features can often get overwhelming if you want something a bit simpler and more straightforward. For instance, there are loops and adjustment strings that come in handy if you know how they operate but the flimsiness of the bag makes it difficult to grip the bag long enough to figure it all out.

Despite being a breeze to carry, the comfortable Distance 15 does a poor job when it comes time to adjust its shoulder straps, in that it’s not possible. If you’re a larger individual, this will pose a problem when taking the pack on and off. Like the Topo Designs bag above, this pack’s main compartment sports a duffel-style drawstring closure, which may cause someone to stay away if they’re looking for a more resilient zipper lid.

Verdict: Weighing in at under 1lb, the Black Diamond Distance 15 is great for scramblers, trekkers, trail runners, or anyone who likes to pack light on their hiking trip. If you’re embarking on a longer camping trip, this bag can be stuffed into another backpack or duffel to be brought out when it’s time to hit the trail. On the other hand, if you’re a casual hiker who doesn’t need all the extra purpose-built compartments and just wants something straightforward, we’d look elsewhere.

Hyperlite Daybreak ultralight Daypack

Best Lightweight Pack: Hyperlite has built its reputation on producing state-of-the-art tents, garments, and other gear using advanced materials such as Dyneema. And the company’s Daybreak Ultralight is no different, made by hand in Maine from an extremely lightweight yet hardwearing 150 denier Dyneema Composite Fabric. A more casual alternative to Hyperlite’s expedition-grade alpine climbing bags, the Daybreak Ultralight nonetheless retains a host of adventure-focused amenities such as Dyneema shoulder straps with 3/8” foam and spacer mesh, a fully-integrated 0.25” padded back panel, ice ax and grab loops, water-resistant YKK zippers, a whistle-equipped adjustable sternum strap, padded 1.5” hip belt with integrated storage pockets, and a front bungee and shock cord system.

the Good

As you’ll see with the Black Diamond bag above, lightweight doesn’t always mean simple. On the other hand, there’s the Hyperlite Daybreak which functions similarly to your everyday schoolbag but is prepped perfectly for the outdoors. There’s a large main compartment that has an elastic pouch against the back and a small zippered compartment on the other side. Oh yeah, this compartment is water-resistant and can serve you well in even some heavier downpours. Meanwhile, the front of the bag has an additional, large pouch that’s covered on the outside with adjustable bungee cords for a stuff sack.

Of all the backpacks we tested, this one was the easiest to adjust all around. Not only do the waist straps tuck away inside the bag but they are incredibly supportive and can be tailored with an easy pull on either side of the clip. On the same note of comfort, the shoulder straps have nice, sturdy padding and aren’t too stiff that they become difficult to untwist when your load is heavier.

The Not So Good

There wasn’t a lot that I didn’t love about the Hyperlite Daybreak. Its Dyneema shell feels obviously tough and it can do a lot without adding much weight. However, some may want extra compartments for organizing. Likewise, the visual aesthetic isn’t terribly versatile. If you brought this thing to school or the office, you’d look a bit out of place. Also, the price tag will be a bit much for the casual hiker.

Verdict: Proof that lightweight doesn’t mean small, the Hyperlite Daybreak benefits from its Dyneema fabric and intuitive construction that includes easy-adjust straps and straightforward organization. It doesn’t necessarily go above and beyond with features but that will be perfectly okay for the casual hiker –– although they might have an issue with the price.

Arc’teryx Aerios 35

Best Large Pack: If you possess even a passing familiarity with the outdoor space then you’re no doubt well aware of Arc’teryx and how the outdoor brand produces some of the finest gear that money can buy. The BC-based brand’s Aerios 35 backpack is no exception, composed of a CORDURA construction that’s afforded additional durability thanks to a cutting-edge 210D Hadron liquid crystal polymer ripstop grid. Built for genuine adventure, the Aerios 35 comes outfitted with a pair of trekking pole attachment points, a front bungee compression system, daisy chain webbing, a padded, breathable hip belt, a highly breathable AeroForm pack panel, an anti-barrelling frame sheet, and a sleeve to house a clip-in hydration bladder (which is sold separately). What’s more is it can expand from 35L to 45L if you’re really in a pinch.

the Good

Dry bag meets hiking backpack, the Aerios is a good pick for wetter outings as well. The main compartment has a large inner pocket as well as a zippered gear pocket. However, if you want zippered protection on the outside, there’s a large zippered pocket on the front of the bag which is as large as many of these backpacks’ main compartments. Outside of that, you get a nice bungee pocket for extra garments. Unique to the rest of the packs we tested, the side water bottle compartments are not only massive but can be adjusted via drawstring closure.

My favorite part of the Aerios pack, however, are the shoulder straps. You would assume that a bag capable of 45L would have super stiff and rigid straps but these soft straps feel really good when worn. They don’t twist easily at all yet still help offset the load on your back.

The Not So Good

Despite the hip strap, which is very adjustable with pulls on both sides to make it easier, the sternum straps aren’t your traditional buckles but instead hook onto the other side. These don’t stretch very far and won’t be for barrel-chested individuals. Likewise, they don’t adjust easily and were a challenge to undo when the bag was heavier.

Verdict: Whether you’re someone who packs a lot when hitting the trails or is embarking on a rainy-day adventure, this dry bag backpack will keep most of the water out while giving you some nice organization options. The shoulder straps are among the most comfortable we’ve worn despite the undesirable sternum supports. Those familiar with Arc’teryx’s gear will expect higher price tags but still, the Aerios is a bit much at $250, despite all that it can do. However, if you’ve got the budget and are looking for something bigger, this is a solid option.

Mystery Ranch Scree 33

Best Duffel-Like Backpack: Made from ultra-durable Robic nylon, Mystery Ranch’s Scree 33 was built to suit a wide variety of outdoor applications, from quick jaunts on local trails to entire weekends spent off of the grid. Affording stellar rigidity and support, the Scree 33 utilizes an internal high-density polyethylene frame sheet, a removable, semi-auto-fitting redirect waist belt system, a patented micro-adjustable Futura Yoke to allow space between your back and the aluminum frame, and Mystery Ranch’s signature 3-ZIP design. Available in four color options, this bag also packs zippered pockets on its waist belt, exterior water bottle pockets, a hydration reservoir sleeve, and an extra-durable dual-layered bottom construction.

the Good

The first thing you’ll notice with the Mystery Ranch backpack is just how sturdy it is. The X Grid material is no joke, plus it is supplemented by the water-resistant YKK zippers and the aluminum frame, which is removable although a bit tricky to do at first.

You’ll have a fun time exploring the ins and outs of this Scree 33 pack. If you want to use this thing as a standard backpack, it’s equipped to handle that with its top-side zipper. However, if you want to throw this on the ground and open it as a duffel bag, the innovative zipper design is set up for that as well. I thought it would be a challenge to jigsaw this bag back together but it was actually very easy. There are straps on the side for compressing this pack to be a bit smaller, which will come in handy, especially since it can get pretty girthy when filled all the way up. I especially love the bonus compartment up top, which has a netted floor.

The Not So Good

As much as this backpack can do, it’s not necessarily the most versatile pack on the market. Its main compartment, albeit filled with a couple of smaller pockets, is essentially the only place to put anything here. There’s not even any place specifically designed for water bottles.

The one aspect of the Mystery Ranch Scree that might turn some people off is the waist strap. Don’t get me wrong, it’s super supportive and even removable if you so choose. However, the backpack is almost impossible to wear without using this strap. Even though the buckle can technically tuck away, the padded hip protector will still stick out and isn’t the easiest to detach. But mostly, the bag is just more comfortable with all the support buckles attached, including the sternum strap. So if you’re fine wearing these straps all day long, this won’t be an issue.

Verdict: Incredibly durable and water-resistant, Mystery Ranch’s Scree 33 features a three-way zipper design that’s fun to use and can be utilized as a duffel bag. Don’t worry though, there’s a bonus compartment up top for smaller, easily accessible items. Despite the higher price tag, this backpack isn’t the most versatile bag around but is a perfect hiking pack if there ever were one.

Hiking Backpacks Comparison Chart

Hiking Vs. Backpacking Backpacks

As you’ll see in the above guide, we’ve delineated standard hiking backpacks from backpacking bags. While the former refers to single-day backpacks intended for day hikes, the latter is designed to optimize both space and weight so that you can carry them over a multi-day backpacking journey. Backpacking bags must be lighter weight and packs intended for day hikes are built a bit bigger for the most part and won’t be all-encompassing like your backpacking pack. Of course, there can be some crossover between the two and we won’t tell you to necessarily ditch your backpacking bag on your single-day hike.

Honorable Mentions

Some people don’t need all the bells and whistles of a $100+ hiking bag. If this is you, consider the Venture Pal 35L, a roughly $26 bag that’s solid enough to get the job done if you’re on a strict budget.

This waterproof Atrack 25L bag from Ortlieb has a unique design but feels more like a multi-day duffel for camping than a strict day pack. Some will like the hybrid style though, so we thought it deserved a mention here.

patagonia knows the outdoors better than most but we didn’t love the reviews on this Altivia Pack 28L. Plus, we opted for a couple of picks at a similar price point that we really love.

A bit on the heavy side, the Fjällräven Singi 28 bag is undoubtedly durable and will appeal to fervent fans of the outdoor gear brand. However, we simply liked other backpacks a tad bit better.

Kifaru International’s bags are used by some of the world’s most elite armed combat forces in some of the planet’s most hostile and unforgiving locales. One of our favorites is the Hellbender. However, it’s a very niche pick and a bit overkill for a standard day hike.

If hydration is your biggest concern on the trail, consider the Osprey Skarab 18, which is purpose-built for staying hydrated with a built-in Hydraulics LT 2.5 L reservoir and hose for drinking on the go.

Tested: The Best Hiking Boots for Hitting the Trails

A backpack is a great addition to any day-hiking loadout, but every collection of kit for the trail starts with a quality pair of boots. Our guide to the best hiking boots features the finest trail shoes and boots that money can currently buy, and we got to test each and every one.