9 Best Ultralight Daypacks 2025 in the United States

The 4Monster Hiking Daypack is designed to be an ultralight solution for travel, camping, and outdoor activities, with a capacity of 16 liters. Its standout feature is its extremely lightweight nature, weighing only 4 ounces, which makes it easy to carry and fold into a compact size that can fit into a pocket. Made from tear-resistant 30D nylon, the daypack promises durability against scratches from branches and stones, and its reinforced stitches enhance long-term use. The material is water-resistant, which offers protection for items like phones and cash in light rain, although it may not be suitable for heavy downpours.

The backpack includes various compartments—a main zipper pocket, a front zipper pocket, and two mesh side pockets—offering practical space for organizing essentials during day trips or hikes. Comfort might be a consideration due to its ultralight design, which may lack padded straps or a frame, potentially making it less comfortable for extended wear compared to heavier models. Additionally, its faux leather outer material might not appeal to everyone aesthetically.

The daypack comes with a 30-day return policy and a 12-month warranty, providing buyers with peace of mind. The 4Monster Hiking Daypack is ideal for those seeking a lightweight, packable solution for short outdoor excursions and travel, but may not be the best choice for extended use or heavy rain conditions.

The Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack in Wave Blue is a versatile option for those in need of an ultralight daypack. With a weight of just 1.29 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for day hikes, city commutes, or casual outings. The backpack's capacity is sufficient for everyday essentials, though it may not be suitable for longer trips that require more gear.

The use of a mesh-covered die-cut foam back panel enhances both comfort and ventilation, ensuring that you remain comfortable even during extended use. The material appears durable and well-constructed, typical of Osprey products, which suggests it should hold up well over time.

The design and efficiency are well-received, indicating that it is a popular choice among users. In summary, the Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack is a solid choice for those seeking a lightweight and comfortable daypack with good durability, though potential buyers should consider their need for water resistance.

The Outlander Packable Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack is a practical choice for anyone seeking an ultralight daypack. Weighing just 0.5 pounds, it is incredibly lightweight yet offers a substantial 33-liter capacity, making it roomy enough for various items. The backpack's material is a standout feature, made from highly rip and water-resistant nylon fabric, ensuring durability and protection against the elements. Additionally, stress points are reinforced with bar tacking to enhance longevity, and the use of durable 2-way SBS metal zippers adds to its robustness.

This backpack is also very compact, folding into a zippered inner pocket for easy storage and portability, which makes it a convenient option for travelers who need to save space and avoid extra baggage charges. The multiple compartments, including a roomy main compartment, front zipper pockets, an internal zippered security pocket, and side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas, offer excellent organization and storage options. The inclusion of a carabiner clip is a thoughtful addition for attaching or clipping items.

While the water resistance is beneficial, it may not be entirely waterproof under heavy rain conditions. Additionally, the minimalistic design might lack some of the advanced features found in more specialized hiking backpacks. The Outlander daypack is ideal for day-to-day use, occasional travel, and light hiking, making it a versatile choice for both daily commuters and outdoor enthusiasts.