Going on a day hike offers many advantages: total immersion in nature without having to worry about the weight of heavy equipment, the freedom to explore without constraints and the comfort of returning home in the evening to rest. However, to make the most of this experience, it’s essential to choose a suitable hiking backpack. A well-designed model should be lightweight, ergonomic and functional to ensure optimal carrying comfort. Here’s our selection of the 5 best backpacks for day hikes.
Which daypack should you choose?
To help you with your choice, our experts have selected five models designed specifically for day hikes. They all offer excellent features for hiking as well as careful design. Each one brings its own set of advantages and unique qualities.
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Osprey Talon 22: ergonomics and sustainability
The Osprey Talon 22 is an ideal option for those looking for a lightweight, comfortable and well-designed backpack. Its AirScape back panel system provides excellent ventilation, reducing heat build-up during long hikes. You’ll also appreciate its eco-friendly approach, with the use of recycled materials and Bluesign certification. Practical features include stretch side pockets, a pole holder and a bike helmet carrier.
- Capacity: 22 litres
- Weight: 1080 g
- Practical feature: Stow-on-the-Go pole holder
- In a word: Ergonomic
Salewa Pedroc 16: the ultralight backpack
Designed for speed hiking and fast-paced hikes, the Salewa Pedroc 16 backpack is an ultralight model, perfect for those who want to travel with minimal weight. Its Dry Back Contact back panel reduces perspiration thanks to effective ventilation, while its quick compression system allows you to adjust the volume in a single movement. Sturdy and well-organised, this backpack features stretch side pockets and a compartment for your valuables.
- Capacity: 16 litres
- Weight: 420 g
- Practical feature: One-hand compression system
- In two words: Ultra-light
Ortovox Traverse 20: comfort and versatility
With the Ortovox Traverse 20 backpack, carrying comfort is a priority. Its Comfort Contact back system ensures continuous ventilation while providing good support against the back. Its spacious main compartment and multiple pockets make it easy to organise your gear. This model is particularly suited to those looking for a versatile hiking backpack, thanks to its pole attachment straps and built-in helmet net.
- Capacity: 20 litres
- Weight: 780 g
- Practical feature: Ergonomic hip belt
- In a word: Versatile
Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 18: ventilated and compact
The Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 18 excels in ventilation thanks to its AirZone LT mesh back panel, which promotes airflow. This compact model is ideal for carrying the essentials without unnecessary bulk, while offering good support thanks to its hip belt and padded shoulder straps. It also includes a rain cover and TipGripper pole holders.
- Capacity: 18 litres
- Weight: 770 g
- Practical feature: Stretch front pocket
- In a word: Ventilated
Millet Ubic 20L: versatility and protection
Suitable for all seasons, the Millet Ubic 20L stands out thanks to its Variloop system, which allows you to attach various types of equipment, be it poles, skis or crampons. Designed to cope with a range of conditions, it features a durable water-repellent finish and a built-in rain cover. Its multiple side pockets and compartments offer optimised storage for every hike.
- Capacity: 20 litres
- Weight: 915 g
- Practical feature: Variloop system for attaching gear
- In a word: Protective
What is ultralight hiking?
Ultralight hiking is about minimising the weight of your gear to increase comfort and efficiency on the trails. The idea is to prioritise lightweight, functional equipment without unnecessary extras, reducing fatigue and improving autonomy. Backpacks designed for this activity often lack rigid reinforcements, are optimised in volume and made from ultralight materials while ensuring good load distribution.
How much should a hiking backpack weigh?
The weight of a hiking backpack should be suited to the duration and type of outing. For a day hike, an empty model should not exceed 1 kg to avoid unnecessarily increasing the total load. Once packed, it is recommended to not exceed 10% of your own body weight to ensure optimal carrying comfort. Lightweight backpacks between 16 and 22 litres are ideal for carrying the essentials while remaining easy to handle and comfortable to wear.
The best men’s and women’s hiking backpacks are at Glisshop
At Glisshop, you’ll find a wide selection of hiking backpacks for men, women and children. You’ll discover models from the biggest brands, with all types of capacity and features. To help you with your general research on backpacks, feel free to check out the following tutorials and guides: