Best day hiking backpack (2025): Osprey, Rab, Snowman

One-day hiking packages come in almost endless shapes and sizes, from ultra-fine frameless packaging to 35-liter monsters with separate sleeping bag boxes. The best day hiking backpack will depend on what you are doing, but after thousands of hours, here are some things that are key to getting the right packaging:

Is it appropriate? This is the most important thing for any packaging. Make sure the packaging you want is right for your body, or carry it, no matter how many great features it has, will appeal to it. I highly recommend you head to your local outdoor retailer and try weighted packaging with sandbags. This experience will tell you more packaging than any other packaging. If not possible, read the manufacturer’s recommendations on fit and size, as the standards will vary.

Does it have a framework? The vast majority of packages over 10 liters have some kind of internal frame, whether it's aluminum or titanium rods, a hard plastic framesheet or a simple foam. The frame is stiffer and stronger, the more comfortable it is to bear heavier loads (usually). The frameless packaging can reach about 8 pounds well. After that, they tend to get very uncomfortable for a long time.

How do you access items in the packaging? There is no correct way here, but different methods work better for different people. I happen to like rolling top, dry top loaders, but others like bags with front passages, sometimes called panel loaders. Most of the day’s packaging is accessed from the top somehow, whether it’s a roll or a tie.

Many top loading day bags also have covers for smaller items and expandable sleeves that can fit extra gear. The panel loader has zippers or other fasteners on the front of the package for access along the way. Some packaging combines top access with side zippers, allowing you to access the main compartment without having to unpack completely. Then there is the mysterious ranch, whose unique Y-zip access is located between the top load and the panel load, but it's also its own stuff.

What is the rear panel? Larger, heavier packaging will usually provide a nice mesh back panel that will help you keep cool. Some packages have other ventilation systems, such as the Osprey’s meteorological rear panel, which has a channel in the middle to help with airflow. Anything that sits directly on your back will become sweaty.

Does it have a hip belt? If you carry more than 10 pounds, we recommend using a hip belt. Unless you are going to bother and weight is the point – in this case, keep going. Everyone else, with a hip belt package, and even something with hip bone pockets for quick access to Lara bar.

Extra features to find: Side pockets are convenient for storing frequently visited items. Mesh pockets suitable for water bottles are especially convenient. Mesh pockets are easily accessible, but the zippered pockets ensure no drops in the rough scramble. Is there a sternum belt? (These helps keep the straps where they should be). How about the cycle of an ice axe or hiking pole? Can the shoulder strap be attached to the quick capture clip? These are all nice extra features.