

If you prioritize comfort or plan on hauling a heavy load, the Osprey Stratos 36 is one of the most feature-rich daypacks on this list. What we like: Extremely comfortable, loaded with features, and can pull double duty for light overnights. Most Comfortable Daypack for Heavy Loads 3. For an even lighter and more streamlined version, check out REI’s $20-cheaper Flash 18. But if you can keep weight to a minimum, the Flash 22 is a great way to go fast and light on a budget. But some downsides remain: The Flash 22 isn't a standout in all-out comfort and support for shuttling a heavy load over long distances, materials are on the thinner end for rough use, and it’s only sold in one size. The top lid was also tweaked and now includes two buckles rather than one for snugging things down, and the Packmod bungee can be moved up or down to customize gear attachments. For an ounce more than its predecessor, the latest pack utilizes a nylon and polyester construction throughout (the prior model was just nylon with mesh water bottle pockets) with solution-dyed materials that require considerably less water during production. Perhaps most importantly, the Flash costs just $60, is well built overall, and has enough capacity for all-day outings on the trail (provided you pack relatively light).Īs we touched on above, the Flash 22 was updated recently with some noteworthy changes. You don’t get a cushy hipbelt or shoulder straps, but the padded mesh along the back and shoulders does a good job at keeping you comfortable when carrying lighter loads. Simplicity wins out here: The Flash 22 is frameless by design, meaning it lacks the rigidity of other daypacks but manages to keep weight extremely low at just 14 ounces (and even less if you take out the back pad or sternum strap). And with a recent update, the latest Flash 22 is more competitive than ever. REI Co-op’s Flash line of daypacks has been a mainstay among hikers, travelers, and those on a budget for years.
OSPREY DAYLITE PLUS DAYPACK FULL
What we don’t: Underbuilt for shuttling a full load. What we like: Lightweight, well made, and cheap. See the Osprey Talon 22 See the Women's Osprey Tempest 20īest Budget/Lightweight Daypack 2. In the end, the Stratos gets the edge for heavy loads and long days on the trail (the 36L we have listed is even serviceable for light overnights), but the Talon is lighter, cheaper, and more than enough daypack for most people and uses. On the flip side, the Talon is lighter at under 2 pounds, but its thinner backpanel does mean that you can sometimes feel the contents of your bag on your back, and particularly if loaded down. The latter has a more substantial hipbelt along with a suspended mesh backpanel for superior support and ventilation (it’s built more like a backpacking pack than a daypack). While the Talon is Osprey’s best all-rounder, the more expensive Stratos collection below offers even more padding and carrying comfort. For day hikes, travel, and everyday use, the Talon 22 is an excellent choice. The pack also has functional organization, a nice stretchiness to it, ample attachment points including for trekking poles, a helmet, and a bike light, and is made in two sizes to dial in fit. Notably, the Talon has a real hipbelt with light cushioning, which is more comfortable than the simple webbing you get with more streamlined packs, along with a thoughtfully designed mesh backpanel. At 22 liters (and made in larger versions up to 44 liters for those who need more capacity), it hits an ideal balance of comfort and features. If you’re looking for one daypack that can do it all, Osprey’s Talon is your best bet. What we don’t: For heavy loads, the Osprey Stratos below offers more padding and support. What we like: A comfortable, well-built, and versatile daypack. Best Daypack for On-the-Go Storage: Arc’teryx Aerios 30 / women's Aerios 30īest Overall Daypack 1.Best for Fast-and-Light Mountain Missions: Black Diamond Distance 15.

