10 Best Daypacks 2025 in the United States

The 4Monster Hiking Daypack is a highly portable and lightweight option for those needing a compact backpack for day trips, hiking, and other outdoor activities. With a capacity of 24 liters, it offers a decent amount of space for essentials without being cumbersome. It's impressively lightweight at only 4 ounces, making it easy to carry and stow away when not in use, as it can be folded into a wallet-sized package fitting into a pocket.

This feature makes it convenient for travelers who need an extra bag without adding bulk to their luggage. The material is water-resistant and made from tear-resistant 30D nylon, providing durability against the elements and rough handling. The water-resistant zippers further help keep contents dry in light rain, which is an added benefit for outdoor use. The daypack includes a main zipper pocket, a front zipper pocket, and two mesh side pockets, providing a good amount of organization for your items.

The silver color and sleek design make it a stylish choice, and its versatility suits a variety of activities from hiking to shopping. It also comes with a 30-day hassle-free return policy and a 12-month warranty, adding peace of mind to your purchase. While it excels in being lightweight and durable, those needing more features like hydration compatibility or enhanced comfort might need to look at other options.

The Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack is a versatile and well-designed daypack that caters to various needs. With a capacity ideal for daily commutes and short hikes, this backpack offers ample space through its large panel loading main compartment. Fit and comfort are strong points, given Osprey’s reputation for ergonomic designs.

The backpack is lightweight at just 1.29 pounds, making it easy to carry without adding extra strain. Material-wise, it is known for durability, which is essential for long-term use. Organization is well thought out, with several pockets and an internal hydration sleeve, making it convenient for staying hydrated during your adventures.

However, the backpack might lack extensive weather resistance features, which can be a concern in harsh weather conditions. Suitable for casual daypack use, the Osprey Daylite Plus excels in providing efficiency and comfort, making it a reliable choice for daily commuters and light explorers.

The CamelBak Rim Runner X22 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a hiking daypack with hydration built-in. Its 22-liter capacity is enough to carry essentials for a day outdoors without feeling too bulky. The included 1.5-liter Crux reservoir is a big plus if you want easy access to water on the trail, making hydration simple and convenient. Comfort-wise, the pack features an Air Support Back Panel and multiple straps (shoulder, hip, sternum) to help balance the load and keep the pack stable, which is important for longer treks.

Made from nylon, the material is durable and should hold up well against rough use. It is advisable to use a rain cover in wet conditions to protect against moisture. Organization is well thought out with several pockets: an essentials organization pocket, side stretch pockets, and a stretch overflow pocket, helping keep your gear sorted and accessible.

At about 24 ounces, the pack is reasonably lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue during longer hikes. The removable stability belt adds versatility, allowing you to customize fit and support based on your needs. While it is geared toward men, its adjustable straps might fit a range of users comfortably. This daypack is a dependable option for outdoor activities like hiking, snowshoeing, or adventuring, especially if you value built-in hydration and good organization.