10 Best Daypacks 2026 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 Fjällräven Skule 28 is a solid choice for a daypack with its 28-liter capacity, offering enough space for daily essentials and a bit more. It’s made from tough, recycled Oxford fabric that should hold up well against wear and tear, which is a big plus if you need something durable. The padded shoulder straps and back panel with air mesh make it comfortable to carry, even for longer periods, helping with airflow to keep you cool.

It has good organization features, including a zippered main compartment with a padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop and a front compartment with mesh pockets to keep smaller items tidy. The pack weighs around 730 grams (about 1.6 pounds), which is reasonable but not the lightest in its class. One handy feature is its hydration system compatibility, allowing you to use a water reservoir and easily access the drinking tube, which is great for hiking or active days.

While the material is durable, it might not be ideal if you expect heavy rain due to lack of specified weather protection. This backpack suits adults looking for a durable, comfortable daypack with good organization and hydration support, but if lightweight or strong weatherproofing is a priority, you might want to explore 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.