lightweight backpacking travel

The Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2024

What’s the best ultralight backpack? We interviewed thru-hikers and dedicated weekend warriors, putting loads of models to the test to narrow in on the top featherlight hiking backpacks for any adventure.

Ultralight backpacking is exploding in popularity.  With casual backpackers and seasoned thru-hikers alike focusing more and more on a lighter base weight, the options for a streamlined, ultralight setup on trail have expanded dramatically.

There isn’t one blueprint for what makes a perfect ultralight pack, and it really does depend on what you’re comfortable with. To help narrow down the choices, we interviewed a number of knowledgeable thru-hikers and put countless models to the test to find the best ultralight backpacks out there. Ultralight hiking isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking to pack light or take on extensive mileage by foot, you’ve come to the right place.

Our team collectively tested legions of these glorified tubes for the creation of this guide, with current author Chris Carter having put over 10 different models through grueling tests in the past year alone. An alumnus of the Triple Crown trails in the United States, he’s worn a seemingly permanent groove in his shoulders from schlepping ultralight backpacks across the country — and won’t settle for just any ol’ vessel. He knows the importance of balancing durability, weight, and functionality when scoping out the best ultralight backpack for your journey, and allowed only the crème de la crème into this roundup.

While there isn’t a single ultralight backpack for everyone, we’ve noted some of the useful features and specs of each of our recommendations to help you find the best ultralight backpack for your needs. At the end of our list, be sure to check out our   comparison chart ,   buyer’s guide , and  frequently asked questions .

Editor’s Note: We updated our Ultralight Backpacks guide on March 21, 2024, to add the new Black Diamond Betalight 45 — a pack hewn from the newest ultralight and ultratough textile on the block: Challenge ULTRA fabric.

• Best Overall Ultralight Backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 55
• Best Budget Ultralight Backpack: Mountainsmith Scream 55
• Runner-Up Best Ultralight Backpack: ULA Equipment Circuit
• Best for Ultralight Base Weights: LiteAF Ultra 30L Curve
• Best for Heavy Loads: Stone Glacier Terminus 7000
• Best Comfort Ultralight Backpack: Osprey Exos Pro 55

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 55

• Weight 1 lb., 15.6 oz. (white); 2 lbs., 2.5 oz. (black)
• Volume 64.8 L (55 L main compartment, 9.8 L outside storage)
• Material DCH50 main body and DCH150 bottom (white); DCH150 main body and bottom (black)
• Outside storage Two zippered hipbelt pockets, two side water bottle pockets, front shove-it pocket, ice axe attachment

• Lightweight yet durable fabric
• Easy to adjust the volume
• Removable aluminum stays add structure and support
• Ice axe attachment is kind of finicky to use

Hyperlite Mountain Gear makes a wide range of ultralight equipment, including a dozen backpacks for everything from mountaineering to ice climbing. For backpackers and hikers, several choices meet the ultralight demand.

The  HMG Windrider 55 ($379) is a bomber pack made of Dyneema Composite Fabric, a high-end laminate that is 15x stronger than steel. It has removable aluminum stays for added versatility and weighs in at a scant 32 ounces.

The pack is basic. It has one main compartment with a bladder holder, a large mesh area with three separate compartments, two side pouches, and an ice axe loop. The roll-top closure keeps water out and the whole pack compresses down easily with a strap. The overall volume of the pack can be adjusted significantly by rolling or unrolling it to the desired level.

It’s expensive, but dang, is this brand durable! In our testing, despite rolling, and unrolling the top closure hundreds of times, placing sharp objects in the main compartment, sitting on it in rafts, and getting brushed and harassed by thorny wilderness on miles-long treks, there was not a single hole or tear.

For the thru-hiker or weight-conscious weekend warrior looking for top-of-the-line ultralight performance that doesn’t skimp on durability, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 55 may just be the perfect pack.   

Mountainsmith Scream 55

• Weight 2 lbs., 13 oz.
• Volume 55 L
• Material 210d Robic Dynajin nylon ripstop UTS
• Outside storage Two zippered hipbelt pockets, two mesh side pockets, double front panel storage pockets

• Comfy shoulder straps
• Solid organization with plenty of zippered pockets and access points
• Lightweight internal frame distributes loads well
• On the heavier side for ultralight packs
• Roll top closure is sometimes a little funky if pack isn’t fully loaded

The newly updated  Mountainsmith Scream 55  is a heck of a deal for ultralight backpacks. At a retail price of just $160 (and a lot less in the off-season), this is by far the least expensive on this list. We used the Scream 55 pack on a few big hikes and were highly impressed.

This pack is a top-loader with roll closures. This isn’t our favorite style, as it tends to minimize the useful space at the top of the pack. Given this pack’s 55 L size, however, it should have plenty of space for any light packer.

A large U-shaped zippered front panel helps access gear easily, and two large external stretch mesh pockets help with organization. With no top lid, this feature gives you a place to put small, frequently needed items. In use, we were impressed with how well the minimal EVA framesheet distributed weight through our back, hips, and shoulders.

The  Scream 55  weighs in at 2 pounds 13 ounces. While certainly on the high end of the scale for ultralight backpacks, these backpacks have a durable ROBIC fabric and are good choices for those on a budget or who want a little more comfort than some lighter models offer.

ULA Equipment Circuit

• Weight 2 lbs., 5.2 oz.
• Volume 68 L
• Material ULA 400-denier Robic
• Outside storage 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, 2 adjustable side water bottle pockets, front shove-it pocket, ice axe/trekking pole attachments

• Plenty of features that add to usability/comfort without adding too much weight
• Super durable
• Padded shoulder straps and hipbelt carry heavier loads well
• Side pockets are at somewhat of an awkward angle
• Not the lightest ultralight pack out there

ULA continues to lead the way in thru-hiking and ultralight backpacking with their simple, efficient designs and killer comfort. Weighing in at just over 2 pounds, it’s hard to find a pack that boasts such high load-carrying capabilities at such a minimum weight.

While it’s not the lightest ultralight option on the market, the  ULA Circuit’s  ($280) extra features add a level of comfort that justifies its extra weight, making this one of our top choices for a comfortable ultralight pack.

Letting the stats speak for themselves,  Halfway Anywhere’s annual survey  of PCT hikers has rated the 68 L ULA Circuit as one of the most popular packs used by thru-hikers for the past several years.

Despite its low weight, the Circuit does not skimp on features, with plenty of outside storage and lashing capabilities. Two side water bottle pockets, two zippered hip-belt pockets, ice axe/trekking pole retention loops, and a large front shove-it pocket round it out. The pack carries heavier loads comfortably with its contoured shoulder straps and padded back panel.

Its roll-top closure makes the volume of the pack highly adjustable. This is prime for thru-hikers, who will often load up for long stretches between towns and then can roll the top down to about 35 L as they empty the pack.

The pack carries extremely well, featuring a 1.2-ounce carbon fiber and Delrin suspension hoop coupled with a dense foam frame and single aluminum stay. This unique design provides great load control, rigidity, and back support without compromising on weight or impeding the range of movement.

The one complaint with this pack, however, is the side pockets are constructed at a pretty steep angle, making them really only useful for storing water bottles. It’s a small detail but notable compared to some other models.

Though not the lightest of ultralight packs, the ability to carry larger loads while still cutting down on weight makes the  ULA Circuit  an ideal option for those just breaking into ultralight backpacking.

LiteAF Ultra 30L Curve

• Weight 13 oz. without any accessories
• Volume 30 L, plus an extra 15 L external capacity
• Material ULTRA 200
• Outside storage Two side water bottle pockets, large front shove-it pocket, ice axe attachment (optional), bottom stretch mesh pocket (optional)

• Crazy lightweight, yet durable enough for a thru-hike
• Tons of loud colors to choose from to spice things up on trail
• Long front shove-it pocket affords a good deal of external storage
• Need to purchase hipbelt separately
• Pretty low 20-pound weight limit
• Long custom pack lead times (upwards of 8 weeks)

Now we’re getting into those truly specialized ultralight goodies! With this pack, it’s all in the brand’s name. Starting at 13 ounces (that’s not a typo),  LiteAF’s Ultra 30L Curve  ($265) seems to float from your hand when you pick it up. People are really thru-hiking with this?

More and more, these snazzy-colored, funky-shaped packs can be seen trotting (swiftly) down the length of the PCT, AT, or pretty much anywhere fast and light adventurers are getting after it.

With 30 liters of internal capacity (and an extra 15 liters of external storage), your kit needs to be pretty dialed to make a long-distance backpacking trip work in this. The Ultra 30L Curve is for those with base weights under 10 pounds who are looking to lighten their setup even more.

Despite such a low weight, this pack is still featured enough to make long-distance travel comfortable and efficient, and they offer several add-ons (such as a stretch mesh bottom pocket and various shock cords) to increase storage capabilities. While the pack doesn’t ship with hip belts, you can separately order a  1-inch webbing hip belt  or a simple  padded hip belt  if you feel the need.

For the lightest, fastest adventures you could dream of,  Lite AF’s Ultra 30L Curve  is about as ultralight and streamlined as they come. Take care of it, pack it wisely, and it could be the ticket to that next FKT you’ve been eyeing.

Stone Glacier Terminus 7000

• Weight 3 lbs., 15 oz.
• Volume 115 L
• Material X-Pac and SG ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) blend fabric
• Outside storage No pockets, but plenty of sinch straps to attach things to

• Super low weight for the volume and how much it’s designed to carry
• Carries and distributes the weight of heavy loads well
• Very durable
• Pretty specific design for a niche need
• Huge profile

The  Stone Glacier Terminus 7000  ($649) is one of the more unique “haul everything” packs we’ve tested. Designed for the hyper-specific niche of big mountain goat and sheep hunting, the pack is capable of that and a whole lot more.

In essence, the pack is a single large tube of high molecular weight polyethylene attached to a world-class frame, shoulder straps, and harness. Designed to carry massive loads north of 150 pounds, this pack is a dream to carry. And thanks to smart carbon composite design, it weighs in at just 3 pounds, 15 ounces. Super impressive, given its volume of over 115 L!

Our team tested the pack hauling loads in preparation for elk hunting, mountaineering, and general backpacking. It carries remarkably well, even with a lot of weight. While the pack is bare-bones in terms of storage solutions, it does have two internal pockets, a large external pocket, and a lid pocket, all of which can help keep items organized.

But its strength comes in hauling heavy loads. Unlike some hunting packs though, it doesn’t have a meat shelf, meaning that the load needs to be loaded internally. So strangely shaped objects (like firewood or chainsaws) will be awkward to load. For those who need to haul heavy loads though, this one is a unique, excellent choice that carries weight amazingly well.

Read Review: Ultralight, Ultra-Strong Backpack: Stone Glacier Terminus 7000 Review

Osprey Exos Pro 55

• Weight 2 lbs., 1.2 oz. (S/M); 2 lbs., 2.6 oz. (L/XL)
• Volume 55 L (S/M); 58 L (L/XL)
• Material NanoFly recycled 100-denier UHMWPE ripstop nylon with DWR
• Outside storage 1 zippered & 1 elasticated hipbelt pocket, 2 side water bottle pockets, front shove-it pocket, ice axe/trekking pole attachments

• Excellent suspension system that transfers loads well
• Cozy shoulder harness
• Fantastic breathability
• Fully featured
• Easily accommodates a bear can
• Z-style side compression straps aren't our favorite
• Heavier than other ultralight backpacks
• Thin hipbelt padding is noticeable with heavy loads

We heard whispers of such a pack for months, but wouldn’t believe it until we saw it. A fully featured iteration of Osprey’s lightweight standard bearer, with the luxe suspension system we’ve grown to expect, fine-tune adjustability, and ample storage — while shaving nearly a pound off an already featherlight package? Folks, the wait is over. We present the newly minted Exos Pro 55 ($290), a lighter, sleeker sibling to the original treasured Exos .

Hefty tradeoffs used to be obligatory in ultralight backpacking. Narrowing in on that elusive sub-10-pound base weight? Better ditch your traditional pack for a frameless tube of Dyneema. But each year these sacrifices get less costly, and we’re beginning to see full-frame models with top-shelf breathability and structure flirt with the ultralight realm.

At just over 2 pounds, the Pro can’t hold a candle weight-wise to packs like LiteAF’s Ultra 30L Curve, but it has a 55-58 L capacity, and the ability to haul much heavier loads. Plus, removing the brain sheds an additional 2.6 ounces, which is how we usually like to roll — making it even more competitive.

Nano-fly UHMWPE ripstop nylon, thin straps, and tiny buckles are key ingredients in the secret sauce. They strike a nearly perfect balance between bougie comfort and lightweight minimalism. With a suspended mesh back panel, full frame load transfer, torso adjustability, and ventilated mesh yoke, it carries and performs like Osprey’s chunkier models weighing over twice as much. For premium ultralight comfort and next-level breathability, the Exos Pro is next to none. So what’s the rub?

The obvious tradeoff is durability. One hundred-denier fabric will hold its own during light bush-bashing but is designed for the well-trodden path. For burly off-trail objectives, look to Osprey’s beefy Aether or Rook. That said, we found ourselves scrambling over some pretty gnarly terrain with the Pro over our testing period, and it weathered the storm with barely any signs of wear and tear. While we haven’t been able to test its durability over months-long excursions, we’ve heard praise for the Pro from several thru-hikers who have already trekked from border to border with this pack in tow. Based on our tamer, shorter trips, we’d have to agree — this is a phenomenal, comfortable pack for ultralight travel.

Other slight cons include relatively thin hip belts (with only one pocket being zippered), and somewhat awkward Z-style compression straps that connect to the hip belt pockets, which just isn’t our favorite design.

Don’t let our quibbles dissuade you though. This lightweight feat of engineering represents a landmark for weekend warriors and thru-hikers alike, hinting at a new category of high-capacity, fully-framed ultralight backpacks. So — if you aren’t ready to make the leap to a glorified trash bag with straps, and wish to carry a full-length toothbrush — give the Exos Pro a shot.

Black Diamond Betalight 45

• Weight 1 lb., 15.4 oz.
• Volume 45 L
• Material Challenge Sailcloth Ultra 200 & 400
• Outside storage Two zippered hipbelt pockets, two side water bottle pockets, front shove-it pocket

• Extremely durable yet lightweight
• Weather-resistant design
• Lots of storage built into shoulder harness
• Removable frame pad gives structure without adding much weight
• Hipbelts and shoulder straps thinly padded
• Not our favorite strap closure design

We asked — they delivered. Black Diamond’s answer to the ultralight wave sweeping the outdoor industry is impressive, to say the least, yet expensive to say the worst. Let’s get down to brass tacks on the novel Betalight 45 : if $400 for a sack with straps turns you away, it may be best to read on. Get into the nitty gritty though, and put this thing under the ultralight cult’s ever-skeptical microscope — and it just might be worth it.

Perhaps the most important factor here, partially contributing to the high price tag, is Challenge Sailcloth’s Ultra 200 body fabric — a new-age ultralight fabric similar to Dyneema Composite Fabric, but besting it in a few metrics. BD whittled the Betalight’s weight down to a respectable 31.4 ounces by employing this extremely durable fabric and offers up a comfortable ride to boot. No small feat for an ultralight pack. They claim the Betalight has to be “one of the lightest yet most durable packs on the trail” — so we put it through an unconventionally brutal durability test to gauge this claim.

Senior Editor Chris Carter recently helped map out a new trail system in Kenya, East Africa, and four days and over 60 miles later, the pack was hauled through hell, and came out literally without a scratch (well — without a tear). To say we were impressed would be an understatement. Not only did it fend off endless thorns, sharp bamboo, and miles of shoving through impenetrable bush, but the waterproof fabric (coupled with a bag liner), kept everything dry through torrential downpours. 

The running-vest-inspired shoulder harness is unusually wide, distributing weight well — but is sparsely padded. The hip belts are also quite thin, meaning you’ll want to keep your load to a modest ultralight weight when using this pack. We packed it down a bit more than is recommended and paid the price. Overall, though, it carries very comfortably when compared to other ultralight models. 

We love the massive front shove-it pocket but wish you didn’t have to unclip the top strap to fully access it. The large water bottle side pockets hold contents securely, but it’s quite difficult to remove bottles while on the go. The hip belt pockets easily accommodate larger iPhones and plenty of snacks, but the zipper sits a bit low on the pouch, meaning contents (like phones) spill out easier than other designs we’ve seen when you open it up. We found this out the hard way.

These gripes aside, the level of durability you get at such a light weight with the Black Diamond Betalight 45 pack is honestly shocking. After what we drug it through, we feel confident recommending this pack for some of the more brutal, off-trail missions in your future. BD still has a bit of refining to do, in our opinion, but this has the potential to be one of the more legendary hardworking ultralight packs out there.

Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60

• Weight 1 lb., 13.2 oz. (small); 1 lb., 15.2 oz. (medium); 2 lbs., 1 oz. (large)
• Volume 60 L (36 L main compartment, 24 L exterior pockets)
• Material 100- and 200-denier Robic high-tensile strength nylon
• Outside storage 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, 3 side pockets (1 large dump pocket, 2 small water bottle pockets), front mesh shove-it pocket, ice axe attachment

• Phenomenal organizational features
• Approachable price point
• Made with durable but light Robic nylon
• Not the best ventilation
• Zippered top pocket difficult to use when pack is fully loaded

Gossamer Gear makes superlight backpacks that all hit a similar weight and price point. The  Mariposa 60  ($285), for example, weighs 2 pounds and has a removable internal frame and load lifters. This pack has been around for a while, with a lot of fans in the ultralight backpacking world.

The Gossamer excels with ROBIC high-tensile nylon, which is remarkably durable for its weight. It also hits a modest price point compared to packs made with more expensive Dyneema Composite fabrics.

A standout feature of the Gossamer line is their knack for organization. In addition to seven extra pockets outside the main storage compartment, this pack has a mesh pocket for wet items and three large side pockets.

The biggest negative that we noticed had to do with its ventilation. Compared to some other models in its weight and price category, the foam sheet on the back is somewhat breathable, but left us wishing for some greater airflow.

With its broad range of external storage options, durable design, and lightweight construction, the  Mariposa   is a go-to backpack for the thru-hiker looking for a featured, reliable option that will last throughout a season of heavy use.

Granite Gear Crown3

• Weight 2 lbs., 6.4 oz.
• Volume 60 L
• Material 210-denier high-tenacity nylon
• Outside storage Two zippered hip belt pockets, two side water bottle pockets, ice axe attachments, stretch mesh shove-it pocket, elastic water bottle lash on shoulder straps

• Low weight with a high load capacity
• Comfortable and versatile
• The lack of a metal stay makes the load shift around some during use. This can be purchased separately.

The  Granite Gear Crown3  ($240) weighs just 2 pounds, 4 ounces, and has a 60L carrying capacity. Even at such a low weight, it can transform from a weekend heavy-hauler to a lightweight bag for a long thru-hike. Much like this pack’s predecessor, the Crown2 60, the Crown3 60 is versatile, light, and relatively durable for an ultralight backpack.

New for 2022, we tested the Crown3 60 on a 32-mile 4-Pass Loop hike in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. We found the pack carried really well, even with a heavier-than-average load, thanks to the optional ($12, sold separately) aluminum stay. This beefs up the otherwise good VC Mark 3 Frame Sheet, giving the pack a weight capacity of up to about 45 pounds.

Our tester found the pack very comfortable and versatile, especially for its light weight and low cost. He also loved the huge side pockets, large stretch-mesh back panel, and removable, just-right-size top lid pocket.

The Crown3 uses the same material as the Crown2’s 210-denier, high-tenacity nylon, which we put through more than 2,000 miles of testing. So we expect it to hold up at least as well as the old version.

If you’re in the market for an ultralight backpack that can flex into heavier lifting when needed, don’t hesitate. This is a proven backpack that just got a little bit better.

Read Review: Granite Gear Crown3 60 Review: Ultralight Pack, Heavy Potential

Zpacks Arc Blast 55L

• Weight 1 lb., 2.8 oz. (short torso height); 1 lb., 4 oz. (medium torso height); 1 lb., 4.4 oz. (tall torso height)
• Volume 55 L (42 L main compartment, 2.5 L each side pocket, 8 L front mesh pocket)
• Material 1.6 oz./sq. yd. Dyneema Composite Fabric on the inside, with an extra layer of 50-denier polyester on the outside
• Outside storage Two side water bottle pockets, front shove-it pocket

• External carbon fiber frame transfers loads to the hips well
• Carries heavier loads than many other ultralight packs very comfortably
• Front mesh pocket is not stretchable, limiting the amount of gear you can fit in it

Zpacks offers one of the lightest backpacks in its size range, and they’ve also managed to make this pack tough as nails. Constructed with ultradurable, lightweight Dyneema Composite Fabric, the combination of these features makes the  Zpacks Arc Blast  ($375) one of the best ultralight backpacks for strenuous objectives.

The Arc Blast weighs just 21 ounces but is built to carry up to 35 pounds. With a comfortable, suspended frame for ventilation, the only real downside to this pack is its $375 price tag.

This pack is a favorite of hikers who put down massive miles. For example, Dan “Knotts” Binde, who has crossed the United States seven times in the last 3 years,  swears by this pack .

“I haven’t switched up my packs a lot, but once I got used to it, it was solid, really durable — which I was worried about,” he said.

Though it comes at a cost, the  Arc Blast  is about as streamlined as it gets, ideal for the dedicated thru-hiker looking for an ultralight option that can still haul relatively heavy loads.

Evolved Supply Co. The Ranger

• Weight 1 lb., 5 oz. (complete pack); 16 oz. (stripped down)
• Volume 35-40 L (main compartment) + 11.8 L (outside storage)
• Material Ecopak EPLX 200 (main body); Ecopak EPX200 (side pockets); Venom UL (front shove-it pocket)
• Outside storage Two side water bottle pockets, front shove-it pocket, bottom shove-it pocket, optional shoulder pockets, stowable ice axe loop

• Durable, thoughtful design
• Unique dedicated camera clip on shoulder strap
• Optional modular Y strap for easy bear canister attachment
• Comfortable tapered shoulder harness
• Long lead times when not in stock
• Lightweight hipbelt clip is somewhat difficult to close when under tension

“Hey guys, it’s Darwin!” If you recognize that classic intro, you know the sheer amount of knowledge Evolved Supply Co.’s owner has about backpacking gear. Nic “Darwin” Rakestraw is a prominent voice in the thru-hiking community, a seasoned gear designer, and a passionate advocate for the protection of public lands.

His fingerprints are all over the ultralight gear you see on trail, so when he came out with his own gear company, the community listened. We got a chance to test his debut ultralight backpack, The Ranger ($250-330), which has been a huge success since its release in December 2022. Color us impressed.

The unique skeleton of the pack is what first struck us. Without getting too much into the weeds of its thoughtful design, the pack is structured with one-piece U-shaped vertical bindings for rigidity, with minimal horizontal seams that are seam taped to boost water resistance.

Why is that important? Well, the tough U-shaped binds boost durability and make the pack easier to rummage through on the go. The horizontal seams, which have a greater risk of water permeability, are reinforced with sturdy Ultra TNT seam tape to fend off moisture. A powerful, functional combo that screams attention to detail. The shoulder straps are secured to the pack with bombproof ribbon binds that are reinforced and waterproof. This thing is ready for the torture of a summer-long thru-hike.

A 32-inch expandable roll-top collar allows you to fill the pack to 40 L, or it can be rolled down to a 35L capacity. The pack comes with a single top compression leash, or you can add the optional removable Y strap (which comes in the complete kit) to easily attach a bear canister or that gigantic bag of salt and vinegar chips you’re hauling out of town. Thoughtful touches, like a bottom shove-it pouch with a trash hole and a dedicated webbing loop for attaching a camera clip, add to the pack’s usability.

The removable ½-inch-thick hip belts are super cozy, though we did notice the lightweight clips to be somewhat difficult to close under tension. This pack is also swiftly becoming a popular model, so lead times can often be quite long if the pack is not in stock.

These slight gripes aside, we feel that The Ranger is one of the best ultralight packs on the market. We have already shouldered it on a number of demanding ultralight trips, and the level of ingenuity in the design is obvious. For ultralight weekend forays in the mountains or months-long treks across the country, this pack would be a great companion.

Granite Gear Virga3 55L

• Weight 1 lb., 10.8 oz. (regular); 1 lb., 11.5 oz. (long)
• Volume 55 L (regular & long)
• Material Robic high-tenacity nylon (100D and 210D) with barrier DWR treatment

• Simple, quick adjustability
• Better options for fit in straps, hip belt
• Quite affordable
• Easily accessible side pockets
• Compression straps are difficult to effectively use without a frame
• Recommend foam sleeping pad to add rigidity

The very first thing you notice when sliding a new Granite Gear Virga3 ($200) from the box is the wild-looking shoulder harness, with even more adjustability than you’d find on the beefy Osprey Aether . Not one, but two rows of daisy chains decorate the top of this pack, and afford the shoulder straps lateral and longitudinal adjustment with simple gatekeeper buckles. How is this still an ultralight pack?

Add in a fully adjustable pocketed hip belt, large side and front mesh pockets, side and front compression straps, all with a durable nylon construction, and you’d think this pack wound up in the wrong guide. But the Virga3 hovers miraculously around a pound and a half and can be stripped down further to a minimal trail weight of 1.18 pounds.

This does come with a caveat, however. Granite Gear achieved such an impressively low weight by leaving out a frame sheet or stays. The structure of the pack is meant to come from the load itself, and they have included top and bottom pad pockets inside the main compartment where you can insert a folding foam pad.

This is a unique design, but we found that some accordion pads were too large for the pockets. Additionally, many people prefer to hike with inflatable pads to save space. We also don’t find compression straps to be very effective on frameless packs, so we don’t generally use the ones on the Virga unless we have a pad in the back.

Despite all this, we found the Granite Gear Virga3 to be among the more comfortable ultralight packs we tested. Unless you’re toting seriously heavy loads, it carries quite well even without a frame or inserted foam pad.

We love the sleek design, incredible torso adjustability, and competitively low weight. This is also a very affordable pack, and we believe it would be a great option for those looking to snag a more feature-packed ultralight model for long treks.

Read Review: Most Comfortable Ultralight Pack at a Low Price: Granite Gear Virga3 Undyed Review

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40

• Weight 1 lb., 14.1 oz. (white); 2 lbs (black)
• Volume 49 L (40 L main compartment, 9 L outside storage)
• Outside storage Two zippered hipbelt pockets, two side water bottle pockets, front dual-access stretch pocket, daisy chains

• Durable material choices
• Plenty of external storage
• Taped seams/fully waterproof fabric
• More features than other HMG packs
• Claimed weight carrying capacity is ambitious

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 ($369) is a relatively new pack for hikers who think HMG bags need more features and customizability. Part of the appeal of an HMG pack is the stripped-down, minimalist feel and clean design aesthetic the brand utilizes across most of its gear.

However, we suspect there are folks out there looking for a Hyperlite pack that combines the brand’s signature combo of weight and durability with some features offered by other (heavier) packs.

It’s hard to deny the usefulness of the Unbound 40’s features. Oversized side pockets provide plenty of water bottle access. The Dyneema Stretch Mesh dual-front pocket includes two entry points (top and bottom), meaning rummaging for gear just got a little more streamlined.

Between that and the hip-belt pockets, the Unbound 40 offers 9L of external storage space — nothing to sneeze at in a pack this small. As another nod toward customization, the side compression straps are removable. And, HMG loaded up the Unbound 40 with a plethora of daisy chains for attaching externally stored gear.

Unfortunately, that gear can’t be too heavy. Critics of carrying comfort on other HMG packs will find their concerns present here as well. A single contoured aluminum stay, minimalist foam back pad, and relatively skimpy straps don’t invite overloading.

And while HMG touts the Unbound 40’s carrying capacity as topping out at 40 pounds, our initial testing indicates that 35 or even 30-pound loads are going to be much more comfortable with this pack.

Though we don’t have thousands of miles on the Unbound 40 yet, standard HMG features like durable, waterproof fabric, taped seams, and sound stitching abound. Chances are this pack will last a good long while — and provide some stout competition for other top ultralight backpacks.

Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 55L

• Weight 1 lb., 2 oz.
• Volume 58 L
• Material ECOPAK Ultra 200/400 in MLD Gray+Black, MLD Dyneema X 210 denier UHMWPE Ripstop in Wasabi Green or Gray
• Outside storage 2 side water bottle pockets, front shove-it pocket, trekking pole and ice axe attachment

• Accommodates a bear bin
• Built with ultralight but durable material
• Thoughtful, streamlined design
• Side pockets are quite tight
• Hipbelt is pretty short

Serious ultralight backpackers heap praise on the  Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 55L  ($245-325) and for good reason. The frameless pack carries a load of 20-25 pounds and weighs in at a scant 18 ounces. The brand calls it the “lightest full-size, full-featured, frameless pack made.”

It’s a popular design for thru-hikers or others doing big, lightweight miles who may be carrying a bear bin to protect their food from bruins. At 12 inches wide, 7 inches thick, and 35 inches high, it will fit a small bin with room to spare for other gear.

This design comes in two fabric choices. The Exodus 55L uses Dyneema X Fabric, which has a ripstop pattern of HMWPE to stop tears. It costs $245.

To go full-blown Dyneema, upgrade to the  Exodus DCF 55L  (choose Ecopak Ultra in fabric selection) for $325. The extra $80 saves you just an ounce, but the upgrade in materials means it will last forever as well as being largely waterproof (it’s seam-taped).

The Exodus has a very supportive, cushioned hip belt, especially for an 18-ounce pack. The SuperWick Mesh-lined waist belt wings with 1.5-inch webbing, and the buckle adjusts from about 28 to 45 inches.

It’s a simple design that serves the needs of ultralight hikers with no unnecessary features. Customers can add a lid or hip belt pockets and shoulder pockets if they so desire.

For the lightest and fastest hiking missions where weight and efficiency are the biggest concerns, the Exodus has proven to be one of the best ultralight backpacks out there.

Ultralight Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Ultralight Backpacks

The GearJunkie team ranges from casual weekend backpackers to full-blown thru-hiking dirtbags and has put thousands of hard-earned miles on a variety of different ultralight backpacks in a range of conditions and landscapes. We know what it’s like to get to the end of the day with a sore back from a poorly fitting or overloaded pack. We’ve therefore tried to whittle this list down to the absolute best models that won’t weigh you down, but also offer a comfortable ride over big-mile days.

Editorial Director Sean McCoy led the charge with this guide back in November 2020, curating our initial selection of nine packs. A life-long hunter, backpacker, and all-around outdoorsman, Sean knows the importance of balancing weight with function on ultralight objectives in the backcountry.

Senior Editor Chris Carter took over this guide in August 2022 and has been combing online catalogs, attending backpacking gear shows, and consulting his Rolodex of seasoned thru-hiking dirtbags to bring you the streamlined selection of 15 worthy packs you see today. Chris has significant experience putting various ultralight backpacks through torture and torment, having thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in the United States, and continues to backpack around the world. He’s navigated the sinking sadness of a mid-hike pack failure, and knows the importance of choosing a model that fits your needs, and will last the distance.

Every gram counts when trying to pare down your base weight. So, while testing these packs, we considered factors such as durability, value, useability, and functionality of each accessory and feature to determine the quality of the pack. After weeks of putting each model through the wringer on fast and light backpacking trips, we feel confident recommending each of these backpacks to those wishing to push the limit and lighten their load on long trails.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Ultralight Backpack

We’ve all had that moment of frustration as new backpackers where we realize we’ve overpacked, and contemplate chucking half the gear we brought off the next overlook.

It’s the top of the first climb of the day, sweat is pouring off you, your shoulders want to kill you, and suddenly that 5-pound tent you thought would be essential starts sounding a lot less awesome. You get home, saw your toothbrush in half, and start to research.

If you’ve decided to pull the plug and join the ultralight cult, there are some things you need to consider. First, it has to be done carefully as you are still headed into the backcountry with this kit, and need to be prepared for all the unexpected twists and misadventures mother nature loves to throw our way.

Don’t focus too much on going lightweight that you sacrifice essential elements of safety in the wild, or bring a setup that is going to fall apart after 2 days on trail.

A reliable ultralight kit starts with a functional, solid backpack. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to decide what to go with, and you should think about the elements that you will encounter on your trip, and the level of comfort you want, before making a decision. Below we’ve broken down several factors to consider when choosing the best ultralight backpack for your adventure, which hopefully streamlines the process.

Ultralight Backpacks Fabric Selection and Weather Resistance

Ultralight backpack manufacturers have the difficult challenge of offering an extremely lightweight package while also being durable enough to hold up to months of abuse on rough trails through bad weather. For that reason, these packs are constructed with the latest, most durable materials on the market, which often explains the high price tag.

Some of the most common fabrics found in ultralight packs are Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), Ultra, ECOPAK, X-PAC, and nylon (such as Robic or CORDURA). Each of these fabrics has different benefits and uses, which impact the weight, durability, and weather resistance of the packs they construct.

Many people look at ultralight packs and think they are waterproof, since they often resemble the classic roll-top closures of dry bags, or are made with shiny reflective material. While the fabric of some of these packs is highly water-resistant, you will still want to add additional rain protection to your gear for when the weather turns foul.

Our testers like to use separate ultralight Dyneema dry bags for contents that absolutely need to stay dry (such as electronics, a first aid kit, a puffy jacket, and a down sleeping bag), with a large lightweight pack liner that always stays in the backpack, protecting everything. The two most popular waterproof pack liners are Nylofume bags, such as this one sold by Gossamer Gear.

We’ve found this to be the best, lightest, and cheapest, way to ensure that your gear stays completely dry. And you don’t have to waste time desperately fitting a rain cover over your pack as a freak storm sweeps in, as the inside contents are already protected. Just make sure there’s nothing too important in the external shove-it pocket.

In general, Ultra, ECOPAK, DCF, and X-PAC are waterproof to some degree, though the packs that use them may not be seam-taped, and water will seep through in prolonged bad weather. Most hikers who use these packs will still use a pack liner or cover in significant rain to keep their gear dry. Materials such as Robic nylon, on the other hand, will absorb water slowly over time and allow your pack contents to get wet.

The introduction of DCF and X-PAC to the backpacking scene represented a pretty significant jump in ultralight fabric technology due to their incredible strength-to-weight ratio. Packs such as the Zpacks Arc Blast have secured their spots as the lightest packs in their size range because of DCF, with the ability to carry loads of up to 35 pounds while maintaining an impressive, ultralight weight.

Ultralight Backpack Volume Selection

The volume of your ultralight pack is an important part of the selection process, and depends heavily on how dialed in your base weight is. Ideally, you want to have a sub-10-pound base weight while wearing ultralight packs, which includes everything aside from consumables (such as food, fuel, and water).

This is largely because, in order to achieve such a low weight, ultralight backpacks are generally not as durable or supportive as traditional, heavier backpacking backpacks.

Overpacking them will result in faster deterioration over time, and they just won’t hold the load as comfortably on your back. For that reason, you want to make sure the gear you are packing is also as ultralight as possible if you are going to be using an ultralight pack.

For most ultralight hikers, a 40 L pack will provide enough volume for a long weekend trip, or a 3- to 5-day push between towns on a thru-hike. This will always depend on the climate and terrain you intend to hike through, but for general three-season use, 35 L to 40 L should suffice. Some packs, like Hyperlight’s Windrider 55 can expand or contract a good deal to accommodate different volumes of loads.

As hikers obsess further over every gram in their packs, truly committed ultralight backpackers can whittle their entire thru-hiking kit to fit into 30L or smaller packs, but this comes with some notable sacrifices.

Using simple tarp shelters (or even a rain poncho) in lieu of tents, going stoveless, or carrying less food helps to save weight, but not everyone is ready to take that leap.

Hip belts on Ultralight Backpacks

For a couple of reasons, many ultralight backpacks have a removable hip belt or no hip belt at all (such as LiteAF’s Ultra 30L , which have optional hip belt additions). This is primarily found in frameless ultralight packs. Many hikers who have already dialed their base weight well below 10 pounds find that they can save even more weight by leaving the hip belt off, without sacrificing too much comfort.

With frameless ultralight packs, hip belts are not as load-bearing as traditional packs, as there is no frame for the load to be transferred to. The hip belt really only helps keep the pack close to your body while hiking, preventing it from jostling around, since you optimally will be carrying a weight that won’t overly fatigue your shoulders.

While most ultralight packs will still have a hip belt, they will often not be as padded as traditional packs (such as the hip belt on Mountain Laurel Designs’ Exodus 55L ), and you may have the option of removing them entirely. You can still find great ultralight options, such as the Granite Gear Crown3 , that have solid suspension, ventilation, and support at the cost of a slightly heavier package.

It’s important to think about the comfort level you are looking for in your pack, and how far you are willing to go to cut more weight.

Packing an Ultralight Backpack

You want to pack an ultralight backpack in much the same way that you would pack a traditional backpack , however, there are some additional considerations that are important to note. Namely, ultralight packs cannot carry the same weight that traditional packs can, so it is important to have as minimal and lightweight a kit as possible. This will not only prolong the life of your ultralight backpack but will make it feel a lot more comfortable over the long haul.

As previously mentioned, you will ideally have a base weight that is under 10 pounds. Starting at the bottom of your pack, place your lighter, fluffier items like a sleeping bag and other elements of your sleep kit. These will serve as a “pillow” on your lumbar on top of which some of your heavier items can sit.

Bulkier, heavier items such as your cooking kit, food , and tent , should go in the middle of the pack and be situated as close to your back as possible. By putting these items in the middle of your back, you alleviate a significant amount of stress from your shoulders or lower back, which is particularly important with ultralight backpacks.

Finally, at the top of your bag, you want to pack lighter items that you may need to use throughout the day, such as a midlayer or rain jacket .

Since ultralight backpacks also tend to have less padding than other packs, you want to be more aware of how your gear is fitting inside your pack, in order to avoid things poking uncomfortably into your back.

When packing more featured, framed models — like Osprey’s cushy Exos Pro 55 — you don’t have to be quite as careful, as the load isn’t jutting directly into your back. Most ultralight backpacks force you to think carefully about how your gear meshes in the pack, so it doesn’t sit uncomfortably against you, but this isn’t as big of a consideration when the frame separates the load from your back.

These framed models also allow you to carry heavier loads, since more of the weight is transferred to your hips through the rigid structure of the frame. Additionally, compression straps work much better on framed backpacks than frameless ones, as there is built-in structure to compress the load against. This means you can often achieve a tighter, less wobbly package while bounding along the trail with framed packs.

Getting ultralight gear in the mail can sometimes be a disconcerting experience. You just dropped $300 on this package and you can barely feel it in your hands!

While it may seem flimsy and fragile, most ultralight backpacks on the market are constructed with the leading ultralight and ultradurable materials out there and can take quite a beating. There are some elements to consider, however, when choosing the right pack for you.

If going as light and fast as possible is your biggest concern, and you have the budget to be able to replace gear as it deteriorates, choosing an ultralight pack purely for its weight could be a good option. If you want an ultralight option, but also plan on putting it through a little more torture and want some comfort along the way, you might want to look at a more durable, slightly heavier model.

Buying an ultralight pack is an investment that has the potential to greatly improve your backpacking experience. The ability to travel light and fast not only increases the amount of wilderness you can enjoy in a given time but can also reduce the beating your body takes on a demanding backpacking trip, allowing you to hike further and limit injuries.

Ultralight Backpacks: Pros & Cons

Ultralight backpacking means keeping your entire load low. Your base weight, including all your gear — except consumables like food, water, and fuel — should be under 10 pounds.

And that’s where these packs shine. They are light themselves, thus adding very little weight to your back, but they also carry light loads comfortably and can stand up to reasonable on-trail use.

You really need to keep your weight down with these packs ( Stone Glacier Terminus excluded). Most of them won’t serve you well if you load them heavy, so they’re a little less versatile than more robust backpacks.

Where does this matter? If you own just one backpack and plan to use it for hiking, ski mountaineering, and rock climbing, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

Also, some of these packs aren’t super durable for off-trail hiking, so be sure to scrutinize materials closely if you plan to use them while bushwhacking.

Ultimately, you will have to decide if you’re willing to trade creature comforts for minimal weight. For those who’ve made the leap, the above are some of the best ultralight backpacks on the market.

Ask 100 hikers about their favorite ultralight pack and you’ll get a dozen different answers. But like all backpacks, the most important aspect is that it fits your body perfectly and is adjusted properly! If you don’t know how to fit a pack, it’s worth a trip to an outdoor shop to talk with a qualified salesperson.

If you can keep your packing weight low, yes, an ultralight backpack is worth the investment for many hikers. However, it’s worth noting that ultralight packs require the user to understand how to pack efficiently to keep their load weight quite low, usually less than 25-30 pounds.

If you expect your gear will weigh more than that, an ultralight backpack will probably not be a good choice, as many won’t support heavy loads very well.

Your base weight is the weight of all your gear not counting things you consume such as water and food. So it includes things like your stove but does not include the food you cook.

Most ultralight backpackers consider a base weight of 10 pounds to be a good measure of ultralight backpacking. Get it down to 5 pounds, and you’re in the superlight backpacking range. For more casual, lightweight backpacking, you can stretch the weight up to about 20 pounds.

The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

Head into the backcountry with the best backpacking backpacks of 2024. From budget-friendly options to ultra-comfortable picks, we’ve got you covered.

The Best Backpacking Tents of 2024

Whether you’re looking to spend 100 nights on the trail or stick to a tight budget, we’ve found the best backpacking tents of 2024.

Based in beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee, Chris Carter is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie, while squeezing in side gigs as an adventure filmmaker and content creator in the outdoor industry. Drawing from his childhood in Africa, experience as a rock climbing and backpacking guide, ultra-marathon running, and years of extensive thru-hiking, he’s passionate about journalism that gets people into the wild. He has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in America: the Pacific Crest Trail (2018), the Continental Divide Trail (2021), and the Appalachian Trail (2021), and has explored, rock-climbed, and backpacked all over the world. He hopes to spread his love of adventure and travel through his writing, art, and videography.

Sean McCoy is the Editorial Director of GearJunkie, and 5+ other AllGear websites.

He has been writing about hunting, fishing, trail running, camping, skiing, and more for 15+ years.

Prior to GearJunkie, he was the chief photographer for the Virgin Islands Daily News and former editor-in-chief for GearJunkie. Based in Denver, Colo., McCoy is an avid trail runner, camper, hunter, angler, mountain biker, skier, and beer tester.

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Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2024

Streamlined yet capable for everything from fast-and-light overnights to long thru-hikes, we break down the year's best ultralight packs.

Switchback Travel ( Jason Hummel )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Once a niche segment of backpacking, ultralight (UL) gear is gaining traction among outdoor enthusiasts who want to travel faster and further with less weight on their back. Nowadays there are countless choices of tents, sleeping bags, cook systems, and outerwear to choose from, but perhaps the most important piece of gear is the item that allows you to carry it all comfortably—the backpack. Ultralight packs are lightweight by design while also balancing carrying comfort, durability, ventilation, and organization. Below we break down our favorite models of 2024, from fully featured haulers from brands like Osprey and Gregory to streamlined and customizable packs from top ultralight brands. For background information, see our ultralight backpack comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

Our Team's Ultralight Backpack Picks

• Best Overall Ultralight Backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55
• Best UL Pack for Customizing Fit: ULA Equipment Circuit
• Standout Mix of Support and Ventilation: Osprey Exos 58 / Eja 58
• Best Frameless Ultralight Backpack: Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 55L
• Best Budget Ultralight Backpack:  REI Co-op Flash 55
• Best Fastpacking Pack: Ultimate Direction Fastpack 40

Best Overall Ultralight Backpack

1. hyperlite mountain gear southwest 55 ($379).

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 is without a doubt one of the most refined ultralight packs available for a variety of hiking styles, whether you’re thru-hiking the PCT, embarking on a fast-and-light weekend adventure, or off-trail scrambling. Dyneema is the headlining feature here: This burly fabric is known for its incredible strength-to-weight ratio and tear resistance, in addition to being fully waterproof. As a result, the sub-2-pound Southwest 55 is one of the lightest packs here but also ridiculously hardwearing, which is rare among ultralight packs. Importantly, with removable aluminum stays, a foam backpanel, and wide and supportive hipbelt, it’s also capable of carrying loads up to 40 pounds (many packs below are rated only to 30 to 35 lb.).

Hyperlite’s Southwest is our top pick for dedicated thru-hikers who log a lot of miles, but it’s overkill for recreational backpackers. At $379 for the white pack ($399 for the more durable black model), the 55-liter version will cost you almost twice as much as a pack like the REI Flash below. In addition, organization is very streamlined, and the lidless design might be a shock to the system for those switching over from standard backpacking fare. Finally, the Dyneema backpanel can grow swampy: If you primarily hike in hot climates or tend to run warm, you’ll want better ventilation. But you won’t find a better combination of weight savings, durability, and carrying comfort, which is what many of us look for in an ultralight pack (and for thru-hikers who hit the trail no matter the conditions, the waterproofing is a huge bonus). It’s also worth checking out Hyperlite’s Windrider and Junction (these packs only differ from the Southwest in terms of pocket materials) or the relatively new Unbound 40 below... Read in-depth review See the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55

Best UL Pack for Customizing Fit

2. ula equipment circuit ($280).

If you were to venture out on any of the major long trails in the United States (the PCT or AT, for example), chances are you’d see many packs made by the popular cottage brand ULA Equipment. The Circuit here is their most well-rounded design: Sticking close to the standard UL formula, it features a bare-bones main compartment with a roll top, three large dump pockets, and a hipbelt pocket on each side. But what sets the Circuit apart is its wide range of sizes and fit customization: When ordering through ULA’s website, you can easily customize the hipbelt (6 sizes from XS to XXL), torso (4 sizes from S to XL), and shoulder strap style (J or S straps). What’s more, the site also includes helpful guidelines and instructional videos on how to take your measurements and dial in the right size. If you’ve had a hard time finding a well-fitting backpack, the ULA Circuit might be a game changer.

The Circuit has a lot more going for it than just its customizable fit. Carrying comfort is impressively high for such a pared-down hauler, thanks to the aluminum stay (which can be bent to fit the contour of your back), perimeter hoop, and rigid foam sheet. During a trek in Chile’s Parque Patagonia, we were impressed with how comfortably the Circuit carried a 30-pound load (ULA places its load limit at 35 lb.), and noticed no pressure points or rubbing throughout four days on the trail. And while the Circuit can’t quite match the low weight of the Dyneema Southwest above, its 400-denier Robic nylon and X-Pac laminate are very hardwearing and water-resistant—we’ve heard many reports of hikers using the same ULA pack for multiple long-distance thru-hikes, which speaks volumes ( ULA's Ultra Circuit is an even more durable design). In the end, the Circuit is an exceptional value at $280 and our top pick for hikers looking for a Goldilocks fit.  See the ULA Equipment Circuit

Standout Mix of Support and Ventilation

3. osprey exos 58 ($260).

Osprey generally focuses their efforts on comfort-first, fully featured designs for traditional backpackers, but the Exos (and women’s Eja) is a successful stab at an ultralight pack. Updated last year, the Exos resembles a standard backpacking pack at first glance, with a floating lid, well-padded hipbelt and shoulder straps, and ample pockets for organization. Importantly—and like many of Osprey’s heavier designs—it also features a suspended mesh backpanel that separates the pack from the body, offering unparalleled ventilation compared to the ultralight competition. And the new Exos 58 also tacks on an adjustable torso length, which is very helpful in achieving a proper fit (and a feature most UL packs lack).

We’ve been using the Exos for over a year now, and have been impressed with its carrying comfort, ventilation, and convenient organization. Overall, the pack seems to take all of the essentials from a traditional design with no unnecessary additions. However, the Osprey won’t appeal to all ultralight enthusiasts: It’s relatively heavy at 2 pounds 13.4 ounces for the men’s medium, and with few removable features you don’t get much opportunity to shave weight. But for weekend warriors, aspiring ultralight enthusiasts, or thru-hikers looking to prioritize ventilation and comfort, it’s hard to fault the Exos for its well-balanced design. It’s also worth checking out Osprey’s new Exos Pro 55 ($290); we were impressed by the Pro’s well-rounded feature set in our testing, but found that it makes noticeable compromises in terms of carrying comfort and durability...  Read in-depth review See the Men's Osprey Exos 58   See the Women's Osprey Eja 58

Best Frameless Ultralight Backpack

4. mountain laurel designs exodus 55l ($245 - $325).

The majority of ultralight enthusiasts will opt for a framed pack that can handle loads up to about 35 pounds, which is an ideal pairing for long-distance thru-hikes and mainstream ultralight equipment (i.e. a base weight around 12-15 lb.). That said, there’s a whole category of UL packs built for serious hikers who want to travel even lighter (i.e. base weights in the 6-7 lb. range), including the Mountain Laurel Designs (MLD) Exodus 55L here. Touted by MLD as the lightest fully featured pack on the market, the Exodus keeps weight low with a frameless design, meaning it eliminates the stay, peripheral hoop, and rigid frame sheet common to most backpacking packs. This shaves a considerable amount of weight and bulk (the Exodus checks in at 1 lb. 2 oz.) and allows the pack to conform both to your body and loads of varying sizes. Because of their lower overall comfort and support, we don’t recommend frameless packs for most, but they’re a popular niche item for fast-moving ULers who’ve pared down the rest of their kit too.

Like many cottage-brand packs, the Exodus really geeks out on fabric, with your choice between Ultra X (aka Dyneema) and ripstop nylon. Whichever model you opt for (the nylon version will save you $80), this pack is built to last. And everything else is well executed, from the load-bearing features—robust S-shaped shoulder straps, a padded hipbelt, and a number of compression straps to stabilize the load—to the organization, which includes a cavernous main compartment with roll-top closure, external dump pockets, and the option to tack on shoulder and hip pockets. All told, the Exodus has all the on-the-go bells and whistles you need to move quickly down the trail, and can skillfully accommodate everything from a few items to a week's worth of food and gear. With just three sizes and few fit adjustments, it won’t work for everyone, but it’s all about weight-savings here: For speedy hikers who keep their base weight low, it’s one of the most popular frameless packs on the trail. If you're looking for a step down in capacity, check out the MLD Prophet 48L and Burn 38L. See the Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 55L

Best Budget Ultralight Backpack

5. rei co-op flash 55 ($199).

REI Co-op’s in-house gear is well known for value, and their Flash 55 pack is no exception. Designed to meet the growing interest in ultralight backpacking, the 2-pound 13-ounce, $199 Flash is a well-rounded choice for those in the market for an entry-level UL pack. REI claims the Flash can handle loads up to 30 pounds, and carrying comfort is excellent with an internal steel frame, padded mesh backpanel and hipbelt, and adjustable torso length (new in the recently updated model). Most of all, we love the Flash’s adaptability: The lid, hipbelt, compression straps, and hipbelt and shoulder pockets are all removable, meaning you can modify and adjust the pack to suit your hiking style and organizational needs (removing all of these components shaves 7 oz. from the weight of the pack). 

Given its high level of customization, the Flash 55 might carry more appeal in the UL market than the more traditional Osprey above, especially for those particular about storage. And chances are it’ll fit: Along with the adjustable torso, the pack comes in four sizes—small, medium, large, and a large torso/small hipbelt combo. There are a number of compromises that come along with the budget price point: Materials are thin with just 100-denier nylon in the body and 210-denier nylon on the bottom, and the padded backpanel doesn’t offer the ventilation of suspended mesh designs. And with a weight approaching 3 pounds, the Flash 55 certainly won’t appeal to militant ounce-counters. But for just $199, REI's UL pack carries a load surprisingly well, and represents an excellent value for ultralight-curious hikers who want to stick with a familiar brand...  Read in-depth review See the Men's REI Co-op Flash 55   See the Women's REI Co-op Flash 55

Best Fastpacking Pack

6. ultimate direction fastpack 40 ($195).

Fastpacking is an emerging segment of backcountry travel, combining the appeal of long, multi-day routes with a fast-and-light ethic. If you have good fitness and lightweight gear, trails that might take backpackers a week or more can be tackled in just a few days. Along with the growth of this discipline has come a new style of backpack, merging the capacity of an overnight pack with the on-the-go access and close ride of a running vest. It should come as no surprise that Ultimate Direction—a solid player in the running market—makes one of our favorite designs in their Fastpack (and women’s FastpackHer) series. With two capacities for both men (20 and 40L) and women (20 and 30L), you can further dial in your choice depending on your load.

The Fastpack 40 truly is a hybrid design: On one hand, it features the simple layout of a UL pack, with a cavernous main compartment, roll-top closure, and three stretch dump pockets along the front and sides (you also get a handy side-zip access to the main compartment). But it also offers a cornucopia of pockets on the shoulder straps (including two zip pockets) for storing on-the-go items like snacks, water flasks, and your phone. The fragile materials do cause some concern—UD doesn’t provide a denier, but the polyester body is undeniably thin—and with just a streamlined webbing hipbelt, the pack will be uncomfortable when overloaded. But overall, the Fastpack 40 is a time-tested design for moving quickly with minimal gear. For a bit of extra support, check out Arc’teryx’s Aerios 45 below, which is heavier and less comfortable for running (it features a rigid framesheet), but features a similar hybrid design. See the Men's Ultimate Direction Fastpack 40   See the Women's UD FastpackHer 30

Best of the Rest

7. gossamer gear mariposa 60 ($285).

Gossamer Gear is a household name in ultralight backpacking, with a popular collection of packs for a range of adventures. Their largest capacity hauler, the Mariposa 60, is one of our go-tos for everything from quick overnights to week-long missions. Despite the sub-2-pound build (for the medium frame and hipbelt), it offers 60 liters of capacity spread out between a main compartment and seven exterior pockets, and is impressively supportive for loads up to 35 pounds (we took it right up to the limit). What’s more, the feature set is clearly designed by experienced thru-hikers: You get a tall side pocket to stash a tent or shelter, two pockets on the right side for water bottles and a filter, a stretchy rear pocket that offers quick access to essentials, large hipbelt pockets, and a bear-canister-compatible main compartment. Uniquely, the removable foam backpanel is located on the outside of the pack for easy accessibility and doubles as a great sit pad for trail-side breaks and camp life.

The Mariposa joins the Circuit above as one of the most popular cottage-brand UL packs on the trail. But while the Gossamer Gear is the clear winner in terms of weight, it falls short of the ULA in a few key ways: First off, the fabric is noticeably thinner, which will be of little concern to most recreational hikers (our pack has held up well to general use and abuse) but noticeable for those who spend months of each year on the trail. Further, the Mariposa offers far less fit customization—you get your pick of three torso and hipbelt sizes, compared to the Circuit’s larger set of offerings (including two styles of shoulder straps). And finally, we found its foam backpanel to bunch up throughout a day of hiking, and many hikers will trade in another foam pad or inflatable pad in place of the stock design (Gossamer Gear also offers a more rigid SitLight Camp Seat). But for dedicated ULers that prioritize organization, the Mariposa is a bare-bones yet fully functional backpack... Read in-depth review See the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60

  8. Gregory Focal 58 ($250)

Two of the most established pack specialists in the traditional backpacking realm, Gregory and Osprey often go tit for tat with their offerings. The Focal here is no exception, giving the Exos above a run for its money with a very similar design. Like the Exos, the Focal (and women’s Facet) strikes a fine balance between a traditional backpacking pack and an ultralight hauler, and is known for its well-rounded organization, carrying comfort, and ventilation (via a suspended mesh backpanel). What’s more, the Focal’s shoulder straps and hipbelt are integrated seamlessly into the backpanel mesh; with no seams to rub against or cause hotspots , this makes for a very comfortable ride.

Deciding between the Focal and the Exos is an exercise in splitting hairs; the reality is that if you like one of these packs, you’ll likely be a fan of the other. But there are some minor differences: The Gregory clocks in about 3 ounces lighter for the men’s medium sizes, is $10 cheaper, and features slightly larger hipbelt pockets (our women’s Facet accommodates an iPhone 11 in a case, but it’s a tight squeeze). On the other hand, the Osprey is a better option for those who struggle with getting a good pack fit—although it’s offered in two sizes compared to the Gregory’s three, it features 4 inches of adjustment in the torso for a truly dialed in fit. Plus you get slightly more durable fabrics with the Exos, although the overall longevity of the packs will likely be very similar. In the end, both designs are great options for those who prefer a traditional pack over more polarizing ultralight offerings... Read in-depth review See the Men's Gregory Focal 58   See the Women's Gregory Facet 55

9. Arc’teryx Aerios 45 ($250)

In a category dominated by mom-and-pop cottage brands, it’s a bit of a surprise to see an Arc’teryx pack in our ultralight article—but it’s also a sign of how popular this once-niche activity has become. The Aerios 45 is exactly what we’d expect Arc’teryx to accomplish with a UL pack, and stands apart from other models here with its high-end construction and sleek styling. You get most of the features that run standard, including a cavernous main compartment with roll-top closure, side stash pockets, and durable yet lightweight materials. But of course, Arc'teryx tacked on some additional flair, adding an accessory pocket for quick access to essentials, zippered access to the main compartment, a breathable backpanel, and vest-style front storage (similar to designs like the Ultimate Direction Fastpack and Pa’lante v2). It all adds up to a souped-up and technically savvy 45-liter pack for supported thru-hikes, fastpacking, and quick overnights.

We have nothing but praise for the Aerios 45 when it comes to hiking, but it’s not our favorite design for running. First off, the backpanel and hipbelt are fairly bulky, and the latter is not removable on either the 30- or 45-liter models. What’s more, the frame is noticeable, especially when compared with running-vest-style designs that move more as an extension of the body, like the Ultimate Direction above (it also has a tendency to squeak). If you’re hoping to run stretches of trail, the pack will undoubtedly feel cumbersome and overbuilt. Finally, the sternum strap has a tendency to loosen over time—even while hiking, we had to snug it up every so often. But if you keep your fastpacking at a hiking pace, the Aerios is a really solid option, and it’s hard to beat Arc’teryx’s build quality. See the Men's Arc'teryx Aerios 45   See the Women's Arc'teryx Aerios 45

10. Six Moon Designs Swift X ($375)

If you’re after a classic ultralight gear experience, look no further than Six Moon Designs’ Swift X. This pack offers a ridiculous amount of customization, including the choice between two different sets of materials, standard shoulder or vest-style straps, frameless or framed configurations, multiple hipbelt sizes, and more. Set up in various ways, the pack ranges from 1 pound 10 ounces to just over 2 pounds, and can play double-duty for everything from quick-moving fastpacking missions to week-long stretches of trail (like most packs here, the Swift X maxes out at 35 lb. with the suspension-hoop frame). And Six Moon Designs also offers the Swift V , which swaps in more affordable Robic nylon and appeals to the budget-conscious hiker with a $275 price point.

As we mentioned in the Exodus 55L write-up above, the choice between a frame or frameless pack will largely come down to the weight of the rest of your gear. Six Moon Designs recommends an 8-pound base weight when using the Swift X without the frame, which bumps up to 12 pounds with the suspension hoop. We like a frame pack for most backpacking trips, but there are certainly times when our load is so light that the additional rigidity feels cumbersome and overkill. With a pack like the Swift X, you have the versatility to opt for either configuration (and the 49L capacity pulls off both well), whereas packs like the Zpacks (below) and Osprey and Gregory above have a fixed frame that cannot be removed. We don’t recommend the Six Moon Designs for those just dipping their toes into the ultralight world, but if you have the rest of your gear sorted and like to configure your pack to the adventure at hand, it’s a premium choice from a trusted brand. See the Six Moon Designs Swift X

  11. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 ($369)

Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Southwest 55 gets our top spot this year, but we’d be remiss not to also include their new Unbound 40. With a sleek 49 liters of capacity (40 on the inside, 9 on the outside), this pack was purpose-built for thru-hikers tackling long-distance trails such as the PCT, AT, or CDT. Like the Southwest, the Unbound uses durable and waterproof Dyneema fabric, which offers a nice amount of assurance in wet weather or for heavy use. In contrast, it features larger side pockets and a Dyneema Stretch Mesh pocket on both its front and bottom, and cuts weight with streamlined 5/8-inch webbing and a single lightweight aluminum stay (most Hyperlite packs have two). Finally, you get updated features like exterior seam binding (for a sleeker interior and improved water resistance) and a V-pull cinch that tightens the top and bottom of the hipbelt separately for a closer fit. 

If you’re thinking of opting for the Unbound over the Southwest 55, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The 40-liter version will get the job done when you’re using streamlined equipment like Hyperlite’s Unbound sleeping quilt and trekking-pole shelter, but it’ll be a tight squeeze for longer trips or more mainstream UL gear (thankfully, Hyperlite now offers the pack in a 55-liter version , too). Second, we found that the pack lacks the tank-like feel of the Southwest: The stretch-mesh pockets aren’t as durable as the Southwest’s Hardline, the thinner webbing hipbelt gives up some support, and we broke one of the elastic pocket cinches after just a few days of use. Finally, neither pack has load lifters, which always has us shaking our heads. But for weekend warriors or long-distance thru-hikers who stick to trails, the Unbound is a truly purpose-built pack. See the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40

12. Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L ($399)

Zpacks has been a pillar of the ultralight cottage industry since its beginnings, providing a one-stop shop for “The Big Three”—packs, shelters, and sleeping bags—with a reputation for impressively low weights. Case in point is their Arc Haul Ultra 60L, which checks in nearly a half-pound less than most competitive UL packs. Showcasing Zpacks’ unique design, the Arc Haul Ultra uses an external frame (most frames are internal) to distribute the load and pull the pack away from the body, along with a lycra panel to support the back. This construction encourages airflow, isolates the pack’s contents from the body without the added weight of a foam backpanel, and provides support for loads of up to 30 pounds. Given that the Arc Haul Ultra is built with Dyneema—which suffers in terms of breathability—this suspended backpanel makes the pack a nice alternative to the swampy Hyperlite Southwest above. 

We tested the Arc Haul Ultra throughout the spring and summer in the Pacific Northwest, and came away big fans of the Dyneema pack. The fit is noticeably refined compared to the Hyperlite above, with an adjustable torso length and load lifters. You also get the opportunity for a bit more customization, which is music to the ears of many thru-hikers—the Arc Haul Ultra comes fairly stripped down, but you can tack on various accessories, including hipbelt or shoulder pockets and water bottle sleeves. However, we do have some durability concerns given the pack’s thin fabrics (3.3 oz/sqyd compared to the Hyperlite’s 5.0-oz. base) and complex design, and were disappointed with the carrying comfort when we pushed it to Zpacks’ advertised 40-pound load limit. But for serious hikers who prioritize weight above all else, it’s a compelling option from a well-known cottage brand...  Read in-depth review See the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L   See the Women's Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L

13.  Granite Gear Crown3 60 ($240)

Though not quite a household name like backpack giants Hyperlite or Osprey, Granite Gear has quietly established itself on the ultralight scene as a brand to trust. One of their most popular all-rounders, the Crown3 is reminiscent of a traditional backpacking design, with a relatively large volume (60L), zippered lid, and array of external straps and pockets to keep even the most organized hikers happy. With a molded plastic frame sheet, the pack is supportive up to 35 pounds (add an aluminum stay to increase the load limit to 43 lb.), and a highly adjustable hipbelt can accommodate bodies of most sizes. Finally, if you’re traveling with a particularly light load, it’s possible to remove some of the components (the lid, hipbelt, and frame sheet) and drop weight by a full pound.

We should note that the previous model of this pack held our top spot for best budget ultralight pack—so why the lower rating for the Crown3? The updated version left us mildly disappointed after a recent 43-mile backpacking trip. Our main gripe is the short and squat build, which felt ungainly and squirrelly on off-camber terrain (the lack of stabilizer straps at the waist did not help). What’s more, with arguably too many straps (we removed a number of them before leaving home) and oversized pockets, the Crown3 lacks the premium finishes of the Osprey and Gregory above. And finally, while much of the competition has turned to recycled fabrics and PFC-free DWR finishes, Granite Gear still lags a bit behind. We might be singing a different tune about the Crown3 if the price were still low at $200, but at $240, the latest version is now less competitive than most packs here... Read in-depth review See the Men's Granite Gear Crown3 60   See the Women's Granite Gear Crown3 60

14. Superior Wilderness Designs Long Haul 50L ($299)

Weight: 2 lb. 2 oz. Fabric: Ecopak   (200D & 400D) Capacities: 40, 50L What we like: Durable construction and a 50-pound load limit. What we don’t: Handmade aesthetic isn’t for everyone; long lead time.

Based in Michigan, Superior Wilderness Designs (SWD) is a small cottage brand with a variety of made-to-order UL packs and accessories. The Long Haul 50L is their most popular model—like many of the packs here, it features an internal frame alongside a simplified design, including a roll-top closure, three external dump pockets, and myriad external attachment points (you can purchase hipbelt pockets separately). Notably, SWD gives it a 50-pound load limit, which is significantly higher than similar designs like the Mariposa and Circuit above. And the pack also stands out in terms of materials: SWD recently switched from X-Pac and Dyneema to Ecopak, a new and entirely recycled fabric that is said to be even more abrasion resistant than the aforementioned fabrics while still offering a high level of water repellency. In the case of the Long Haul, you get 200-denier Ecopak, which should stand up to some serious abuse.

Only time will tell how Ecopak fares compared to more traditional fabrics like nylon and Dyneema, but all signs point to the Long Haul being a durable, ultralight workhorse (is that an oxymoron?)—and we appreciate that SWD is displaying a real commitment to eco-friendly practices. It’s also worth noting that SWD also offers a few frameless designs, which (like the Exodus above) are a great option for serious ULers who want to shave even more weight. Due to being such a small operation, all of SWD’s packs are handmade to order, which means you won’t be able to try the Long Haul on at your local shop before buying—and at the time of writing, the wait time is about 14 weeks. But for a pack made by thru-hikers, for thru-hikers, the Long Haul is another solid pick. See the Superior Wilderness Designs Long Haul 50L

15. Pa’lante v2 ($240)

Merging ultralight gear with a hefty dose of urban styling, Utah-based Pa’lante has amassed a cult following since its beginnings in 2016, regularly selling out of packs immediately upon release. The small company offers four frameless pack designs, each handmade with a specific purpose in mind (they also sell a kit that includes everything you need to sew your own pack). Among their models, the v2 here is their trademark backpacking pack, with 37 liters of capacity (not including the exterior pockets) and a variety of thoughtful storage options. For seasoned ULers well-versed in tarp shelters, sleeping quilts, and alcohol stoves (you’ll likely want to keep your base weight under 10 lb.), it’s an intriguing choice.

The v2 is hard to beat if you’re a sucker for aesthetics, and Pa’lante also offers the option between a sand-colored gridstop nylon and black ultraweave (they break down these materials on their website). As far as design, the v2’s shoulder pockets accommodate a 1-liter Smartwater bottle (or 500mL soft flask), the exterior has a sleek and seamless look, and, like all Pa’lante packs, you get a stretchy stash pocket on the bottom panel for wet storage. All told, the v2 is a more compact and better looking offering than the also-frameless Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 55L above—you’ll just need to keep your load to a minimum. For serious thru-hikers with dialed ultralight kits, it’s a premium pack with great street cred. See the Pa'lante v2

Ultralight Backpack Comparison Table

Ultralight backpack buying advice, ul backpacks vs. traditional backpacks, frame vs. frameless packs.

• UL Backpack Weight
• Carrying Capacity
• What is Base Weight?
• UL Backpack Features

Materials and Durability

Water protection, sizing and fit, the ultralight cottage industry.

• Sustainability
• Completing Your UL Kit

Most traditional backpacking packs range from about 50 to 80 liters and weigh anywhere from 3.5 to 6 pounds. On the other hand, ultralight (UL) packs range from 40 to 70 liters in capacity and weigh less than 3 pounds, with some uber-minimalist designs checking in just over a pound. But aside from being lighter, how does an ultralight pack differ from a standard backpacking pack?

First off is organization: Instead of an array of zippered pockets gracing the interior and exterior, ultralight packs typically feature just one main compartment accessed through a drawstring or roll-top closure, along with stretchy dump pockets on the sides and rear of the pack. A second distinguishing feature is a pared-down suspension system—while traditional backpacking packs have bulky stays and frame sheets, most ultralight packs keep it simple with just one or two lightweight stays or a carbon fiber perimeter hoop (some UL packs forgo the frame completely—more on this below). It’s for this reason that the majority of ultralight packs have load limits around 30 to 35 pounds, while traditional packs can carry up to 50 pounds (or more). Finally, ultralight backpacks differ in terms of their materials, employing much thinner nylon (for example, the Gregory Focal uses a 210D nylon base compared to the more traditional Baltoro’s 630D base) or more expensive fabrics known for their high strength-to-weight ratios.

One final trait that differentiates UL backpacks from traditional models is the ability to customize, both before and after purchasing. Many ultralight packs are handmade to order by small cottage brands, which gives you the ability to pick your fabric, hipbelt and torso size, shoulder strap style, additional components (like hipbelt or shoulder pockets), and more. Once you have your pack, you can continue to tweak it, with most designs featuring a number of removable parts (great for shaving weight) or customizable components like compression straps. With larger brands entering the space this isn’t always a given—for example, the Gregory Focal is far less customizable than the ULA Equipment Circuit —but it will always be a fun hallmark of the UL world and a big selling point for cottage brands.

While most of the top ultralight packs have an internal frame that distributes weight and provides load-bearing structure, there’s also a whole category of frameless designs. In general, framed packs are the better all-rounders: They can comfortably carry more weight (frameless packs tend to slouch), have larger capacities, and often offer improved ventilation. Overall, if your base weight is above 10 to 12 pounds and you plan to be on-trail for more than a few days, a pack with a frame will be more comfortable. On the other hand, a frameless pack (like the Ultimate Direction Fastpack 40 ) is typically lighter and can carry less weight and volume. This may be appealing if you’re very focused on keeping weight down—after all, it’s easy to fill whatever space is available—and with less rigid components, they operate more as an extension of your body (certainly better for running). Which type of pack you decide on will likely come down to how much weight you’re carrying, length and style of trip, and experience level.

UL Backpack Weight 

As we mentioned above, ultralight packs generally check in under 3 pounds. Models that hover on the heavy side of the spectrum, like the Osprey Exos (2 lb. 13.4 oz.), are fairly similar to traditional backpacking packs, but stripped down with thinner fabrics, less external pockets, and more streamlined suspension. If you’re new to ultralight gear, this is a good place to start. Around the 2-pound mark, you have packs like the Hyperlite Southwest 55  (1 lb. 15.6 oz.) and ULA Circuit (2 lb. 5.3 oz.), which feature fairly minimal organization (no lids) and backpanel designs, although they still have internal frames and fully supportive hipbelts and shoulder straps. These are the meat of the category and our top recommendation for most ultralight enthusiasts and thru-hikers. At the lightest end are frameless packs like the Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 55L (1 lb. 2 oz.) and a few outlying frame packs like the 1-pound-5.4-ounce Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L. As you might expect, uber-ultralight packs are the most compromised of the bunch, and in our opinion best reserved for experienced hikers with dialed ultralight kits. 

Carrying Capacity 

Most ultralight packs feature less carrying capacity than traditional backpacking packs , checking in anywhere from 30 to 60 liters. This is based on a few factors: For one, UL gear is typically a lot more streamlined than traditional backpacking fare, so you don’t need a high-volume hauler to fit it all in. Second, a pack’s capacity places a limit on how much you can bring, which is essential for moving fast and light. But do keep in mind that a pack’s capacity does not always correspond to its load limit: For example, the Osprey Exos Pro 55 has a capacity of 55 liters and the Gossamer Gear Kumo (not listed above) maxes out at 36 liters, but they both have load limits around 25 pounds. In other words, just because you have a certain amount of space doesn’t mean you should fill it (more on this in the Load Limits section below).

For most ultralight hikers, we recommend a 55- to 60-liter pack, which sums up the majority of our list above. If you’re headed out for a quick overnight, you might be able to get away with a pack in the 40-liter range, and fastpackers might go even smaller to stay nimble on the trail. That said, it’s not a bad idea to err on the side of more capacity than less: Packs with roll-top collars are particularly versatile—you can extend the collar for day one of your trip and cinch it down when your food supply begins to dwindle. External pockets can also expand and contract with a changing load (it’s important to note that this space is included in the pack’s total volume). In the end, the rest of your gear will determine what size pack you need for any given adventure, so we recommend dialing in your kit before opting for a smaller design.

Load Limits

Importantly, a pack’s load limit is not the same as its carrying capacity, nor do the two always go hand in hand. While the carrying capacity specifies the pack’s volume, the load limit—provided by the manufacturer—describes the maximum weight at which it will be comfortable. In most cases, frame packs will have higher load limits than frameless designs, thanks to the metal components that help distribute the weight throughout. You’ll also want to consider factors like the structure of the frame (is it minimalist or fairly robust?), shoulder strap and hipbelt padding, backpanel rigidity, and more. We recommend that most hikers aim for a 30-to-35-pound load limit, which can support a base weight up to 20 or so pounds (depending on the length of your trip and how much food and fuel you’re bringing). 

What is Base Weight? A key aspect to consider when deciding on an ultralight pack is the base weight of your backpacking kit . Base weight is a term used to describe the heft of all of your gear (shelter, stove , layers, etc.) excluding consumables (like water, food, and fuel). While some backpackers have base weights as heavy as 30 pounds (or more), under 20 pounds is considered “lightweight,” while about 12 pounds and under is “ultralight.” Some serious ounce-counters even have base weights as low as 5 pounds, thanks to niche gear like hammocks, tarps, sleeping quilts, alcohol stoves, and more. Having a low base weight is especially important for long-distance, unsupported thru-hikes, as it means you can pack more food and stay longer on the trail. If you’re just getting started with lightweight or ultralight backpacking and your base weight isn’t under 20 pounds yet, we recommend upgrading to lighter gear first before opting for an ultralight pack.

Backpack Features

Pockets and Organization In the name of weight-savings, ultralight packs are intentionally minimal in organizational features. Almost all ultralight packs have one large main compartment with external dump pockets on the sides and rear and, in most cases, hipbelt pockets. This storage allows you to keep water, layers, and other essentials accessible without having to dig into the main body of the pack. Heavier, more traditionally styled packs like the Osprey Exos and REI Co-op Flash 55 have more features such as top lids, additional external pockets for organization, and straps to attach gear externally—if you’re transitioning over from a standard backpacking pack, you might appreciate these familiar features. Finally, most ultralight packs are compatible with removable components (usually sold separately) such as hipbelt and shoulder strap pockets, which allow users to customize the pack to their needs and lighten the load whenever possible. 

Closure System and Access To keep complexity and weight to a minimum, most ultralight packs will feature either a roll-top closure or drawcord with a lid. Roll-tops are the more popular choice, as they provide additional weather resistance and expandable capacity, all while remaining lightweight and reducing the need for excess fabric or materials. They’re especially functional when paired with highly water-resistant fabrics like X-Pac or Dyneema, providing a high level of water resistance in a streamlined design. In contrast, cinch-top closures are less common, and are almost always paired with top lids—like on the Osprey Exos , Gregory Focal, or Granite Gear Crown3. While we generally sway toward roll-top closures for their water resistance and versatility, drawstrings are easier to operate, and the additional top-lid storage will be a boon for many. 

Customizable Features Compared to traditional designs, many ultralight packs (particularly those from cottage brands) offer a range of customization, both before and after purchase. This is a hallmark of the ultralight industry and a massive selling point for many. For example, when purchasing the ULA Circuit , you can choose between four torso sizes, six hipbelt sizes, two styles of shoulder straps, five colors, and two materials (Robic nylon or X-Pac), and you can even add on an embroidery if you’d like. After purchase, these packs can continue to be tweaked: You can remove the stay, swap in a different foam backpanel, move around accessory straps, and more. And many brands also offer a variety of compatible accessories (including hipbelt and shoulder strap pockets). 

While we’re big fans of customization for experienced backpackers, we don’t recommend these packs for everyone. The ordering process can be convoluted, and if you’re just getting into ultralight backpacking, it’s nice to have some decisions made for you. Further, unless you’re especially particular about things (i.e. you have enough experience to know your preferences), you likely won’t need to customize your pack after purchase. But for those who love to geek out on gear, it’s a really nice option to have. On our list above, the cottage brands that offer a high amount of customization include ULA, Gossamer Gear, Six Moon Designs, Superior Wilderness Designs, Pa’lante, and Mountain Laurel Designs.

Backpanel: Padding and Ventilation In both framed and frameless packs, the backpanel serves to add rigidity, prevents objects from poking through when the pack is fully loaded, and lends a plush feel for long days on the trail. Compared to the heavier and highly padded backpanels on traditional backpacks, most ultralight packs feature streamlined designs that include just a small amount of foam or padded mesh. The Hyperlite Southwest’s backpanel, for example, is a simple piece of Dyneema fabric with a ¼-inch piece of foam on the inside; the ULA Circuit beefs things up a little with plush, mesh-covered padding. However, these designs (especially the Hyperlite) do little to encourage ventilation, which can make things particularly swampy on hot days. If you want to prioritize ventilation, look for an ultralight pack that features a suspended mesh backpanel, which leaves space between the pack and the body for air to flow. These designs include the Gregory Focal , Osprey's Exos and Eja, and the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 62L.

Importantly, many ultralight enthusiasts like their backpanel to be able to serve more than just one role. Many will swap out a pack's existing backpanel for a folded foam pad, which they'll use as a sleeping pad once they get to camp. Others will use the included backpanel as a sit pad for trailside breaks and time at camp. Packs like the Gossamer Gear Mariposa make this particularly convenient—the foam backpanel is placed on the outside of the pack and can easily be removed. On the other hand, more traditionally minded packs like the Osprey Exos and Gregory Focal do not have removable foam backpanels. In the end, if you're diligent about counting ounces and don't mind a bit of pack customization, this is a really nice feature to look for.

Part of what allows ultralight packs to be built so lightweight is the development of new and innovative fabrics. Dyneema, for example, is generally the lightest fabric. It’s waterproof and has good abrasion-resistance, but is also the most expensive (on our list, we see it only in the Hyperlite Southwest 55 , Unbound 40, and Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L). On the opposite end of the spectrum is nylon, which is relatively inexpensive, but slightly heavier and less durable than Dyneema. That said, unless you're using your pack every day, even thin nylon will hold up to a lot of abuse (nylon is measured in terms of denier, or D, with higher numbers denoting thicker construction). Nylon itself is not waterproof like Dyneema, although silicone or polyurethane applications do add decent protection against the elements. 

It's important to note that despite its premium reputation, Dyneema isn't the best choice for everyone. Those who hike in dry conditions won't need the 100% waterproof build, and Dyneema packs suffer more than others in terms of ventilation. A compromise between the Dyneema and nylon is X-Pac, which offers good durability, weather resistance, and affordability for the weight. And an even more recent addition to the fabric lineup is Ecopak, which is entirely recycled and meant to be even more durable than either Dyneema or X-Pac, and also lightweight and waterproof. We haven’t yet tested Ecopak, but it’s a good sign that it’s being put to use by well-established companies like Mountain Laurel Designs, Pa’lante, and Superior Wilderness Designs.

Most ultralight packs are not waterproof, though the fabrics they’re made of might be, if they're made of Dyneema, X-Pac, or Ecopak. With Dyneema or X-Pac, we rarely worry about water intrusion through the fabric itself—more often than not it comes through seams, zippers, or the top closure (this is why many packs feature a roll-top closure). Nylon, on the other hand, is less water-resistant, and extended precipitation will begin to absorb into the fabric, potentially penetrating into the pack body. For this reason, a number of nylon packs are sold with an integrated or included waterproof pack cover, which is well worth the weight for hiking in wet conditions. And regardless of your pack’s weather resistance, it’s always a good idea to use waterproof stuff sacks or trash bags for packing your sleeping bag , layers, and other essentials.

You can concern yourself with load limits and base weights until your head spins, but the reality is that a lightweight pack won’t be comfortable unless it fits well. The good news is that ultralight packs come in a range of sizes and no shortage of after-market adjustments. Cottage-brand packs are known for allowing you to customize before you buy: For example, when purchasing the ULA Circuit, you can choose between four different torso lengths, six hipbelt sizes, and J or S straps to match your body type. If your body doesn’t match what are deemed “normal” proportions, the ability to select both torso length and hipbelt size can be a real benefit. On the other hand, brands from larger companies like Osprey and Gregory generally come in just a few sizes (often specified by the torso length), but many of these packs have adjustable components: The Osprey Exos has 4 inches of play in the torso length, for example, while the Granite Gear Crown3 features a fully adjustable Re-Fit hipbelt. 

One of the benefits to buying from a brand that sells their products in brick-and-mortar stores (such as Osprey, Gregory, Hyperlite, and REI Co-op) is the ability to try the pack on before you buy. But while this is a nice perk, we’ve also had a lot of success buying from cottage brands online. Most of these brands have detailed instructions and charts to help you select a well-fitting pack, and we’ve found their customer services to be incredibly helpful both before and after purchase.   

Once a niche segment of backcountry travel, ultralight backpacking has seen a huge amount of growth in the last few years, supported by cottage industry companies—like Gossamer Gear, Zpacks, and ULA—pushing the envelope with ever-lighter and higher-quality gear. Most of these companies were founded by thru-hiking enthusiasts who noticed a gap in the market, and they continue to be small mom-and-pop operations with a strong “by the people, for the people” ethic. It’s only recently that bigger brands like REI Co-op , Osprey, Gregory, and Arc'teryx are entering the scene with their own ultralight options.

Most cottage brands have a number of things in common. First, the designers and manufacturers are users of the gear themselves, which results in well-thought-out products that nail the details and often allow the buyer to customize sizes, materials, features, accessories, and more. Further, since these are small companies, most of the gear is handmade in the United States.

While we love this culture and encourage you to support it, keep in mind that you can expect longer wait times between ordering and receiving your items (Superior Wilderness Designs has an 14-week wait at the time of writing, and you're lucky if you can even track down a Pa'lante pack). And perhaps the biggest downside for most consumers: You won’t find brands like ULA and Gossamer Gear on the shelves at your local retailer, meaning you won’t be able to see your pack or try it on before buying. Luckily, most of these companies include detailed videos and descriptions on their websites and have reasonable return policies.

Sustainability: Recycled Fabrics and PFC-Free DWR

Our impact on the environment has never been a hotter topic (no pun intended), and it’s nice to see gear companies step it up with more sustainable practices. Recycled fabrics have become standard practice in the past few years and are featured in most of the packs above, including those from both mainstream and cottage companies. We're also seeing a lot more PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) finishes on these fabrics, which eliminate the use of some—or at times, all—per- or polyfluorinated chemicals (these “forever chemicals” have been linked to a range of environmental and health issues). With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes. All told, it’s an exciting time for sustainability, we’re happy to see this reflected in the ultralight backpacking pack market.

Completing your UL Kit

Ultralight backpacks are one of our favorite pieces of gear, but with streamlined carrying capacities and load limits, you’ll need to ensure that the rest of your equipment is fairly lightweight too. When shopping for ultralight gear, your main focus will be on “The Big Three”—a sleeping bag (or quilt) , sleeping pad , and backpacking tent or shelter . Within these categories, there are fairly mainstream models that are particularly popular among the UL crowd, and a number of well-loved cottage-brand designs, too (similar to what we see in the picks above). Back to Our Top Ultralight Backpack Picks   Back to Our UL Backpack Comparison Table

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• Hiking & Camping Reviews
• Ultralight Gear Reviews

The 5 Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2024

Ready to join the ultralight revolution? Over the past 9 years, our thru-hiking experts have tested 40+ of the best ultralight backpacks around. In this latest iteration, we bring you the top 16 ultralight backpacks on the market. We've slogged along the John Muir Trail, hiked around Southern France's Haute Alpes, and traversed miles of talus in Argentine Patagonia to put these packs to the test. We logged hundreds of trail miles to assess performance, subjecting each one to our rigorous testing metrics, including weight-to-volume ratio, carrying comfort, adjustability, and features. Each year, the ultralight world grows and becomes increasingly competitive. This review highlights budget-friendly models and our top-ranked packs, as well as niche products.

If you're looking to shave a few ounces (or pounds) from your pack, check out our other reviews for the best in ultralight gear . If you're willing to carry a little extra weight for more comfort, larger carrying capacity, and extra organizational features, consider one of the best backpacking backpacks or best women's backpacking backpacks from our reviews.

Top 16 Product Ratings

Best overall ultralight backpack, gossamer gear mariposa 60.

• Comfort 10.0
• Ease of Use 10.0
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 8.0
• Adjustability 8.0

Once again, against relentless competition from other brands, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 holds its place at the top of the fleet. This pack balances comfort with an emphasis on lightweight design in an unparalleled way. Its feature set is thoughtful and useful but not overkill. It provides plenty of external carry options without feeling weighed down by superfluous bells and whistles. The Mariposa has our favorite stretchy center mesh pocket, which proved large enough to store extra layers, snacks, and other items we wanted to access quickly. It fits a bear canister and can carry a heavy load comfortably, yet it can also compress to carry a smaller load comfortably. The fabrics used in its design are durable and lightweight; miles of bushwhacking and talus-crossing hardly left a scratch.

Marketed as a 60-liter pack, the Mariposa can carry up to 64 liters when stuffed to the brim. For some, this might feel like too much room for an ultralight pack, as the more room you have, the more likely you'll fill it with unnecessary gear. It's also not the lightest model in our lineup, though its 32.6-ounce total weight and 0.54 ounce per liter weight-to-volume ratio are impressive. Plus, its slightly heavier weight added a level of comfort that couldn't be beaten. If you're looking to go much lighter, the Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 55L is about half the weight. It offers a great weight-to-volume ratio but will cost you in comfort.

Read more: Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 review

Best Bang For Your Buck

Gossamer gear gorilla 50.

• Ease of Use 9.0
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 5.0

Once you get used to the supreme comfort of the Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 , it's hard to imagine living without it. It has great back padding, an internal aluminum frame, and an excellent hip belt. Those aren't the only reasons we love the Gorilla. Its voluminous external pockets swallow up gear so much that we rarely need to open the pack's main compartment until it's time to make camp. Even more impressive is the modular design that allows you to customize the pack for the trip's itinerary by easily stripping components off that you may not need to cut even more weight.

There's little we don't love about the Gorilla and it will be difficult for anyone to wrangle it out of our greedy thru-hiking hands. The top flap design of Gossamer Gear is unusual in our ultralight category, and you may prefer a rolltop. If you're especially rough on gear, the judicious use of mesh for the side and center pockets and holding the back padding in place may become untimely victims of your heavy-handedness. In that case, the exceptionally durable Dyneema construction of the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Porter 55 is a better pick, but it's not exactly a budget-friendly purchase.

Read more: Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 review

Best Full-Featured UL Pack

Osprey exos pro 55.

• Comfort 9.0
• Adjustability 7.0

We must come clean and admit we're still blown away at the amount of engineering put into the exceptional Osprey Exos Pro 55 to take a more conventional backpack design and make it sincerely ultralight. Weight may be gone, but all the creature comforts that one expects from a backpack are not left on the cutting room floor. We especially loved the back suspension system that provided comfort against our pack load and gave a ton of air circulation our poor back so desperately craves.

If you want to shave off as much weight as possible from your kit, the Osprey Exos Pro 55 won't be attractive to you. That said, one can certainly make a proper sub-ten-pound base weight kit when using the Exos Pro, and for that, we applaud Osprey's effort. The main nylon fabric is built to last for years, but you should know that the back mesh on the suspension system might need to be babied a little more. If you want the lightest pack, check out the Gossamer Gear Murmur 36 Hyperlight . At a measured weight of 12.5 ounces, it's the lightest in the bunch, but the tradeoff is a sacrifice in all the other metrics.

Read more: Osprey Exos Pro 55 review

Best for Exceptional Durability

Hyperlite mountain gear porter 55.

• Comfort 8.0
• Ease of Use 8.0

Missions in the mountains require packs that can handle two main things. First, the pack must be able to carry heavy loads. Second, it must be burly, which means it needs to offer protection from abrasions and keep its contents safe from rain and snow. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Porter 55 does all these with style. It's simple and sleek, with a roll-top closure and lots of external lashing options. Its side straps can accommodate skis, boots, tent poles, or ropes, while its small waist belt pockets can hold snacks, phones, and sunscreen. We liked this pack's size; it is a bit more versatile than some of its larger siblings from Hyperlite. The Dyneema fabric used in its construction makes it one of the most durable and water-resistant packs we've tested.

Unfortunately, all of these great attributes come at a cost. Hyperlite packs are some of the most expensive on the market. Therefore, you'll want to be certain this is the tool you need before throwing down so much money. Also, if you're into pockets, features, and bells and whistles, this simplistic pack might be a little disappointing. If you're not willing or able to invest, the Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 is our favorite pick for affordability. While it's not built from Dyneema, it's still quite durable and has plenty to offer, especially in ways of comfort.

Read more: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Porter 55 review

Best for Long Distance Thru Hikes

Ultralight adventure equipment ultra circuit.

• Ease of Use 7.0
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 6.0

For a long-distance thru-hike, you want the perfect balance of performance and comfort. After thoroughly testing every pack in our lineup, the Ultralight Adventure Equipment Ultra Circuit aligns ideally for a long-distance thru-hike like the PCT, CDT, AT, or all three. We adored the harness/padding/hip belt system that put the pack's load mostly on our hips and off our shoulders. We loved the pack's construction, including superb abrasion-resistant and water-resistant fabrics like Ultra 200D and 400D Challenge Ultra fabric. The exterior pockets had enough for all our close-at-hand gear and elastic tops to keep things from getting dropped.

We'd love to leave it at that, but you know that no product is perfect. The back padding is curiously not removable for such a high-end pack, which cuts down on its versatility and customization. It's also quite expensive. These high-tech fabrics and impeccable construction don't come cheaply. But as part of the Big Four of thru-hiking gear, investing in a great pack is the right move. If you prefer the option of removing the back padding, take a look at the offerings from Gossamer Gear, the Mariposa 60 and the Gorilla 50 .

Read more: Ultralight Adventure Equipment Ultra Circuit review

Honorable Mention for Exceptional Weight to Volume

Mountain laurel designs exodus 55l.

• Comfort 4.0
• Ease of Use 5.0
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 10.0
• Adjustability 5.0

The Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 55L is what one may imagine — both the good and the bad — of what ultralight backpacks are all about. It has advanced composite materials whose weight rivals that of tissue paper, with slimmed-down features, minimal pockets, a cool name, and a hot price tag to match. There's a lot to unpack concerning the Exodus, but if you're an advanced hiker already possessing a streamlined kit and looking for the best weight-to-volume value on the market, the Exodus is made for you.

But if you're not yet that advanced of a backpacker and your entire carry weight is more than 20 pounds, then the Exodus won't support you as you gain the requisite experience to be the next "Flyin'" Brian, "Anish" Anderson, or Jeff "Legend". The big spoiler to the Exodus's incredible weight-to-volume ratio is that it skimps out on back padding, an internal frame, as well as other niceties like hip belt pockets, making you figure those details out yourself using clever packing and repurposing gear. If that's too much of a puzzle to solve on top of all the other logistics of a big-thru hike, consider another ultralight backpack like the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 that better supports your adventure, both literally and figuratively.

Compare Products

How We Test Ultralight Backpacks

Over the past nine years, our testing process still begins with deep research into the market to see what's out there. After we make our selection, we purchase all the products at retail prices to eliminate bias from our reviews. Our ultralight backpack testing protocol consists of both lab testing and trail miles. We independently verify weight and volume measurements. We take it a step further by scoring packs based on their weight per unit volume, allowing us to compare different volumes fairly. On-trail testing included trips such as 260 winter miles on the AT and 40 miles in the Black Rock Canyons Wilderness in Colorado. We spent time in Patagonia, the Continental Divide Trail, and the Sierra High Country. Additionally, we made direct comparisons using 15 and 30-pound weights for shorter test laps.

• Comfort (40% of overall score weighting)
• Ease of Use (25% weighting)
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio (20% weighting)
• Adjustability (15% weighting)

Why You Should Trust Us

This review is the combined efforts of several GearLab ultralight experts. Jane Jackson and Brandon Lampley bring to the table a wealth of related experience. For 200+ days a year, you can find Jane outside using and testing gear. With years spent working and playing in the Yosemite backcountry, the Tetons, and the Wind River Range, as well as trips taken to the Alaska Range, the Himalayas, and Patagonia, she has spent plenty of time under the burden of a heavy pack. Brandon has hiked both the Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail, essentially back-to-back, with only four months off in between. He also has first ascents to his name in the Indian Himalayas and has summited Denali and Ama Dablam. Justin Simoni lends his deep knowledge and vast experience to this review, gained from his time in the Colorado backcountry. Justin has done fast-and-light missions on the very ridge of the Continental Divide, the Sangre de Cristo Range, and the Mosquito-Tenmile Range. With no external support, he has summitted all the Colorado 14ers and Centennials in two separate years. He can be heard quietly muttering about an unsupported FKT (fastest known time) of the Colorado Trail after his daily high-elevation-gain trail runs.

Analysis and Test Results

In the past six years, we've tested over 40 ultralight models in addition to hundreds of the best backpacks of all styles. The products we've included this year represent the cutting edge in ultralight technology . If you're looking for larger frames and luxury padded waistbelts, look elsewhere; the packs in this review hardly resemble a traditional backpacking pack. Many exciting small brands have popped up in this category of outdoor gear over the past few years, and we've had fun assessing their latest products. Here, we evaluate the top products available for multi-month thru-hiking adventures and shorter alpine trips focused on fast and light backcountry travel.

When making an outdoor gear purchase, we often trade off one thing for another, and no one understands trade-offs better than an ultralight enthusiast. We all spend too much time "weighing" our options. To bring a slightly thicker sleeping pad can mean foregoing powdered milk in the coffee — decisions, decisions. However, ultralight packs continue to get better and more comfortable as time passes. The Gossamer Gear Gorilla offers impressive comfort and versatility for a reasonable price. The Gossamer Gear Mariposa isn't much more expensive but is our favorite all-around ultralight backpack. Alternatively, the ULA Ultra Circuit is more expensive but is also made of durable materials designed to last for a long time through trying conditions.

Of course, we all want an ultralight pack to be featherlight, but it must carry our load comfortably to be worth it. For each of these packs, we judged load-carrying comfort for two loads: 15 and 30 pounds. We then averaged each pack's performance in both categories to generate our carrying comfort score. Fifteen pounds is a perfect comparison weight for ultralight hikers on a short trip. Thirty pounds is a fair comparison weight for lightweight hikers on shorter trips, ultralight hikers carrying a week's worth of food, or those brave enough to travel in the winter. While some packs can be stripped of their frame and waist belt, our evaluation of "great, good, or poor" for carrying 15 and 30 pounds is with the frame and waist belt in use, as these features add significantly to the comfort of carrying comfort a pack. We only recommend stripping down a pack completely when carrying 12 pounds (or less) in total weight.

The Gossamer Gear Mariposa and Gossamer Gear Gorilla earned our highest scores in this category. With hip belts and back pads on, these packs are impressively comfortable, well-balanced, and secure to carry. They are some of the easiest and most comfortable packs to strip off their frame and waist belts for loads under twelve pounds. The Osprey Exos Pro 55 is nearly as comfortable but for different reasons. Its tensioned mesh back panel and wrap-around non-removable belt help to carry the load far better than most other solutions in the ultralight world.

The ULA Ultra Circuit and Hyperlite 3400 Porter also scored well when it comes to comfort. Both have cushy back padding built in to keep your gear from poking you with every step.

• Best for 10-20 lb loads: Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus 55
• Best for 15-25 lb loads: Gossamer Gear Gorilla and Mariposa
• Best for 35+ lb loads: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Porter

The ULA Circuit , ULA Ohm 2.0 , and Chicken Tramper 35 Ultralight also offer above-average comfort. Both ULA models have good back padding, while the Chicken Tramper custom builds their packs to your exact body measurements, ensuring a perfect fit every time.

The Durston Kakwa 55 , Granite Gear Crown3 60 , and Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 are more decently comfortable packs. They each straddle the line between comfortable hip belts and shoulder pads without offering too much padding that they're extra heavy. Of course, that makes them less comfortable than the more thickly padded packs earning top scores in this metric, but these three are still solid contenders.

Ease of Use

How easy is it to use the features of the pack? Similar to comfort, what's the point of a specialized pack if you need an advanced degree in spatial awareness to use it? We used every pocket repeatedly to see how conveniently they were located, how easily they were accessed with and without removing the pack, and how versatile they are for different types of trips and different styles of packing.

The one-two punch of the Gossamer Gear Gorilla and Gossamer Gear Mariposa again get top honors in this metric. We found both models intuitive to use as soon as you throw them on your back, yet both have the features we like to see in more advanced packs. Standout details include the very voluminous center pocket that swallows up even large gear.

Not to be outdone, the Osprey Exos Pro 55 also delivers when it comes to being a no-brainer to use. The Exos Pro is very "Batteries Included," and for a small weight penalty, it just works without too much fiddling about. If you're transitioning to ultralight from a more conventional backpack, this pack makes the transition utterly painless.

On the opposite side of the ultralight spectrum is the Hyperlite 3400 Porter , which in its own right is also easy to use but can grow with you like Lego blocks. Need more carrying capacity of any sort? Just lash on whatever you need. It has the utmost flexibility in carrying your gear while being super burly to boot. The Durston Kakwa 55 also has some well-thought-out features that are a joy to use.

The ULA Ohm 2.0 can fit an impressive eight Clif Bars into each of its hip pockets. The Granite Gear Crown3 60 has a lid with a brain, for those folks who love that feature. It can also fit five Smartwater bottles in each of its side pockets. The ULA Ultra Circuit is also impressive, though holds just 4 700-milliliter Smartwater bottles in each of its side pockets. The Gossamer Gear Gorilla and Mariposa , Osprey Exos Pro , Hyperlite Porter and Southwest , Chicken Tramper 35 , Mountainsmith Zerk 40 , and Mountain Laurel Exodus all have whistles attached to their sternum straps.

Weight-to-Volume Ratio

The weight-to-volume ratio is a measurement used to compare packs of differing volumes. This metric gets straight to the point; how much does this pack weigh relative to the volume it carries? We measured the weight of each model on our digital scale, as well as each of its disparate parts.

Pack volume was measured, as well as the volume of the main exterior pockets. This gives us a normalized way to compare packs from different manufacturers using the same rules. We were sometimes very surprised at how different the advertised total volume was from what we measured.

Finally, we calculated the weight-to-volume ratio to compare each pack directly, regardless of volume, to get a fair idea of how light these packs really are. All the packs in the ultralight category faired extremely well when looking at their weight-to-volume ratios, but there certainly are some standouts.

Top honors go to the Mountain Laurel Exodus 55 , with its seriously low weight-to-volume ratio of just 0.3 ounces per liter. It's built as a fast-and-light pack that practically dares you to break long trail hiking records. The Exodus has minimal features, smaller exterior pockets, and a large main pack compartment. It uses lightweight but tough 3.5 ounces per square yard Ultra 200D fabric.

Not trailing far behind is the Gossamer Gear Murmur 36 Hyperlight boasting 0.35 ounces per liter. This bag is a smaller 36-liter pack that's made of thin 30D Cordura & 70D Robic nylon. The Durston Kakwa 55 , another pack made with Ultra 200D fabric material, also comes in at a respectable 0.42 ounces per liter.

The ULA Ohm 2.0 also vies for attention with its great weight-to-volume ratio of 0.5 ounces per liter. We measured both the ULA Ultra Circuit and Granite Gear Crown3 60 at 0.53 ounces per liter. The Gossamer Gear Mariposa came in at 0.54 ounces per liter, quickly followed by the Granite Gear Virga3 55 at 0.55 ounces per liter.

Adjustability

Adjustability tests how well a pack conforms to your body, how well it adapts to different adventures, and how well it carries the usual suspects of backpacking gear. We asked ourselves: is this pack working with or against us in the adventures we want to bring it along? We also considered sizing and customization options available during the ordering process.

One of the most adjustable packs to work with the largest spectrum of body types is the Granite Gear Crown3 60 . It features a hyper-adjustable hip belt that can be used in conjunction with its top lid to transform into a hip pack for day trips from base camp. The Granite Gear Virga3 also has this exceptionally adjustable hip belt, though it lacks the removable brain to transition to a day pack.

The Gossamer Gear Mariposa and Gossamer Gear Gorilla both scored highly for adjustability, with an incredible amount of modularity in both of their similar designs, which allows them to be worn comfortably — depending on load — with or without their back padding, internal frame, or hip belt. Both of these packs can also be purchased with "mix and match" hip belts, allowing you to order your perfect combination of sizes. This customization is also available for all the ULA packs we tested (the Ohm 2.0 , Ultra Circuit , Circuit , and the CDT ) as well as the Chicken Tramper 35 .

The Hyperlite Porter adjusts to suit your needs in a very different way, featuring a plethora of daisy-chained webbing on its exterior for you to lash on almost anything you can think of. Its load limit is rated quite high, so feel free to pile on the gear and accessories.

We hope the information in this review sparks an interest in the ultralight world. If all the gear required feels overwhelming, simply getting a lightweight pack is a wonderful place to start. A light pack automatically jumpstarts the transition toward lightening up the rest of your kit. The packs in this review range from extremely slimmed down to more comfy options for those unwilling to part with the standard backcountry creature comforts. Our testers have worn loads of different packs within and outside the ultralight world, bringing a breadth of experience to help guide you toward the pack that is right for you.

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The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A solid backpack is key to a successful trip. Think about it: You can use it as a carry-on, and if you pack light, it'll be the only piece of luggage you bring on a trip. It won't weigh you down as you rush to catch the inter-terminal train at the airport, and it'll look good on you as you stroll the streets of your destination. Find a good travel backpack, and it will serve you for years to come.

There’s a lot to consider when looking for a backpack to take you through all kinds of situations and environments. Waterproof, anti-theft, stylish, lightweight, wheels or no wheels—all things to keep in mind as you shop. To help you make the right choice, we tested 32 carry-on backpacks in our New York testing lab and in the real world. We tested for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other carry-on backpacks we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

Does the perfect travel backpack exist? We’re not sure, but we can’t think of one that comes closer than the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This second version of Cotopaxi’s best-selling backpack is rugged and comfy, has excellent organization capabilities, and is the perfect size to throw in an overhead bin, toss in a vehicle, and huff around from train to hostel.

The pack uses burly TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and lightweight 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling. It has excellent weight distribution with comfy shoulder and sternum straps and hip belts, or stow the straps and carry the pack with side handles. The inside features multiple pockets of different sizes that we found perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, electronics, and shoes. Bonus: It comes with a rainfly to protect it from the weather.

Capacity: 35 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 8 ounces | Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Materials: TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and 840-denier ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

Osprey’s women-specific Fairview 40 pack impressed our tester with its size, space, and compartments. “This bag has a lot of compartments and a lot of straps to hold everything in place,” our tester reported. Despite the bag fitting a bit large, our tester said it was still very comfortable to wear. Osprey employs its proprietary Lightwire Frame Suspension, which helps spread the weight across the back panel and from the harness to the hip belt.

Despite being a 40-liter pack, it weighs just about 3 pounds, thanks to the lightweight nylon ripstop material and frame. “It did not hurt my back, and I like how most of the weight was shifted to my lower back,” our tester mentioned. Besides the fit, we also appreciated that all straps are stowable, making it easy in case you need to check the bag on a plane (which is possible on smaller planes with this larger-capacity pack). For the men’s version of the same pack, check out the Farpoint 40 .

Capacity: 38 liters (extra-small/small size) | Weight: 3 pounds, 1 ounce | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Materials: 210-denier nylon mini hex diamond ripstop and 600-denier packcloth

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 3 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

This 40-liter pack checks all the boxes, including excellent value. Vancropak says it fits enough for trips between three and seven days, and we’d have to agree. “It fit everything even though I packed quickly and not thoughtfully or strategically,” our tester said. “It’s perfect for a weekend trip when you want to pack extra ‘just in case’ outfits or items. It even expands to provide more room. It has extra pockets, opens like a suitcase, has many different handles, and backpack straps that can be tucked and zipped away.” Compression straps also help shrink the bag back down after being packed.

And if you weren’t convinced yet of its value, it also includes packing cubes. “Its business-casual aesthetic makes it ideal for short business trips, too,” a tester added. One nitpick? There’s no laptop sleeve. But our testers thought the other features—and comfort—more than made up for that slight issue.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.98 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 13.7 x 6.2 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

If you didn’t dig the budget pack above, behold another excellent value travel pack. Like the Vancropak, the Asenlin Travel Backpack also includes three packing cubes. Our testers found they could easily fit everything needed for a weekend trip. They also liked the internal straps for organization and the external straps for compression. “It offers three different carrying methods, which is nice,” the testers reported. “It has a lot of different pockets and storage areas. The bottle holder on the side also unzips to expand, which is a thoughtful addition.”

Our testers liked how comfortable the bag was to wear and that it wasn’t overly heavy (the brand claims it weighs less than 3 pounds). We also believe this could double as a business travel bag.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

While we certainly love this bag's sleek and simplistic aesthetic, there’s a lot more to it than just looks. It’s durable and water-resistant and has multiple carry options (e.g., duffel and over the shoulders), a separate shoe compartment, lots of tech organization, and a TSA-ready laptop sleeve.

Our testers loved the capacity of this pack. “It easily fit everything on the list with plenty of room to spare,” one tester said. “I think everything you would need for up to a week away would fit easily.” The pronounced rectangular shape of the bag made it extra easy to pack and helped organize folded clothes. “The bag had two different shoe pockets, a laptop sleeve, and many other compartments for both smaller clothing items and even some work supplies,” a tester reported.

The one drawback of this pack was our testers didn’t find it the most comfortable. Specifically, the straps were stiff and dug into one tester’s neck. Overall, though, our testers were very pleased with the pack and thought it was worth the fit, especially for the design and ease of packing.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 14 inches | Materials: Not listed

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

This 45-liter travel pack from Peak Design debuted at the Outdoor Retailer Expo in 2018 and promptly won many awards. A few years later, it still holds up. Peak Design basically thought of everything when designing this pack. The outside features weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon canvas and ultralight padded foam. It includes grab handles on each side, stowable hip belts, and a sternum strap. The inside has multiple pockets for organization and loads of room for trips of four days or longer.

Our testers loved the size and the zippers allowing access from four different sides of the bag. “It was super easy to pack, and there were just enough organization solutions to provide options for different packing strategies,” a tester said. “I also loved how many handles there were. A grab handle on all four main sides of the bag makes it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment.”

Testers also liked the sheath built into the pack to stow the hip belt and the small pocket on the belt for stashing quick-grab items like lip balm, keys, or cards. They also enjoyed the water bottle pockets on both sides and the pack's comfort. Oh, and this pack is 100 percent carbon neutral. The only issue they saw was the price—it’s one of the most expensive on this list. But if you can look at this as an investment, the durability suggests it should last for many years. It's certainly carry-on luggage that any travel-savvy guy can appreciate.

Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Weatherproof 100 percent recycled 400-denier nylon canvas external shell and 900-denier waterproof bottom liner

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

If your travel involves carrying your backpack for long periods, we recommend Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag. This super durable pack is also super comfortable with plush and padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. We also love that there are multiple ways to carry this pack with a comfy and padded sling. Its construction includes durable and recycled nylons with a canvas feel. And it meets Fair Wear certification standards, ensuring fair labor practices.

“There are a ton of compartments and pockets, so a lot of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes,” one tester said. “I could easily see places to stash cords, travel docs, electronics, water bottles, and more.”

While our testers liked a lot about this bag—including its durability—the comfort won them over. “All the features built into the bag suggest it's intended to create maximum comfort for someone who anticipates carrying the bag for a more extended period of time,” our tester concluded.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 10.4 ounces | Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches | Materials: 1000-denier recycled nylon, 400-denier recycled nylon, 210-denier recycled nylon, 1680-denier recycled ballistic nylon

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

If you weren't convinced by our business travel pick above, consider this your alternative. This pack's sleek, durable, and comfortable design makes it ideal for business and formal travel. Our testers found it easy to fit enough items for up to three or four days away. Lighter packers could stretch this to five days. The inside is designed more like a typical carry-on pack with one large compartment.

“This bag felt super light on my back and was padded in all the right places,” a tester reported. “It has adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the back of the pack when you don't want to use them, which is a genius feature.” Our testers were also impressed with the bag's durability, as it survived being tossed around our lab with zero marks or scuffs.

Capacity: 38 liters | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches | Materials: Recycled Dura nylon

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

Launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette collection is likely the oldest on our list. But those six decades of innovation have helped make this one of the best and most versatile bags out there—not to mention one with excellent style. You can also feel good about your purchase knowing that it features 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET bottles.

Our testers liked the size of the bag and the opening, similar to a suitcase, which made it easy to pack and access items. There were many—almost too many—pockets and compartments. And our testers loved how comfortable and supportive this bag was to carry, noting its excellent weight distribution. “I would recommend this bag to someone looking for a backpack they can use as a primary form of luggage,” a tester concluded. “It has enough room and compartments to fit all of the essentials and keep them organized. It's also comfortable, supportive, and easy to carry.”

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 3.31 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | Materials: Polyester and Recyclex

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thule’s line of luggage. And that certainly includes the Subterra backpack. This rugged pack could also be a good commuter option as it has a magnetic rolling top closure, a padded laptop sleeve, and a PowerPocket for charging items on the go. We love that it has many access points and comes with a packing cube and garment bag for dirty clothes.

"I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag, and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra, and it never felt super bulky,” a tester reported—however, they noted that the bag didn’t particularly help their already-sore back. Not surprisingly, considering its construction, the pack aced our durability tests.

Capacity: 34 liters | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Materials: 800-denier nylon

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

If you’ve never heard of Mystery Ranch, let us introduce you to the Bozeman, Montana-based brand, which makes super rugged packs for backpacking, hunting, the military, and firefighters. This travel-focused pack is incredibly solid on the outside and has many excellent organization and design features inside.

Highlights include a stowable hip belt and shoulder straps, multiple carrying options, a dirty clothes compartment, three inner divided pockets, and lockable zippers.

Capacity: 30, 45, and 60 liters | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 12 inches | Materials: Plain spun nylon, 210-denier nylon

We recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack thanks to its incredibly durable polyester and nylon materials, well-designed internal storage, and included rainfly. Another great pick is the Vancropak Travel Backpack , which rings up at a fraction of the cost of some other options on the market.

We selected products to test based on the expertise of TripSavvy editors and writers and on internet research. Not surprisingly, TripSavvy editors and writers travel a lot. And they have many carry-on backpacks they like and don’t like.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, we also researched what other prominent sites have featured and looked at top-rated and reviewed backpacks on sites like Amazon and REI. Once an initial list of products was selected, we narrowed it down to the final 28 for testing based on style, function, and price.

We tested the backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. In our New York City-based testing lab, we asked testers to pack each backpack with three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag to test for capacity. We asked the testers to consider all aspects of the backpack’s construction, organizational capabilities, and any design innovations.

Testers then carried each backpack around using the different carrying styles. We asked the testers to rate how comfortable the bag felt fully packed. After the comfort test, we asked testers to toss and throw the bag several feet multiple times. We looked for damage on the outside of the bag and any damage to products inside the bag. Lastly, we asked testers to rate the bag for overall value after a price reveal.

We have since sent the backpacks to testers to continue testing as they travel. We will update this document accordingly as their insights are submitted.

Aer Travel Pack 3 : This pack was comfortable to wear thanks to its supportively firm and cushioned back, while its rugged fabric stood up well to rough handling. Our tester subtracted some points for capacity, as it was a squeeze to get everything on the list to fit, and for the more function-forward style.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack : This bag is very nice to look at and proved quite durable. However, it's on the small side and the features aren't particularly travel-oriented—namely, the inflexible bottle holder and the magnetic flip top that is easily displaced when the pack is full.

Minaal Carry-on 3.0 Bag : Our tester appreciated the comfort of the straps and the practical capacity of this bag, though the price was on the higher end and the packing experience was a bit of a learning curve.

Monos Metro Backpack : Another looker, the design of this bag got high praise. We liked the 270-degree opening, the easy-release front pouch, and the comfortable straps. At 18 liters, this back is more of a complement piece to other luggage and could use a better weight distribution system.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable : The expansion feature was a hit once we figured out how to use it and the durability of this pack was undeniable. It was difficult to look past a faulty zipper design that got caught frequently when trying to close.

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

Prices for carry-on backpacks vary widely, so consider what your greatest needs are. You can find a spacious travel backpack for under $100—often under $50—but if you plan on facing harsh outdoor environments , consider investing a bit more money for something waterproof. Leather backpacks can cost hundreds of dollars; keep this in mind if that material is important to you. Anti-theft travel backpacks can be a bit more expensive but are often essential in highly trafficked destinations.

There are so many styles out there you could spend days filtering through the different backpacks on the market. Keep it simple: How will you be using this backpack? If you’re interfacing with clients or business partners, look for something minimal and sleek that doesn’t showcase a million pockets. If you plan on living out of your backpack for most of your trip, pockets are more of a priority. You'll want a bag that zips open flat like a suitcase for easy packing and unloading (this also makes going through security easier).

If you are using your travel backpack for hiking, find something with a removable hip harness to distribute the weight of your pack better when you’re on the move. If you plan on wearing your travel backpack casually—only in the airport or to work—seek out a style with adjustable straps and a padded back. This will help ward off any back pain, especially if you carry a lot of weight. When you’re trying on backpacks, test out the shoulder straps and imagine how they would feel if the pack was filled to capacity. Is there ample padding? Will the material cut into your shoulders? Does the back of the backpack feel like it would be breathable?

The size of backpacks is generally measured in volume (liters) or dimensions (inches or centimeters). While it is essential to refer to the specific requirements of the airline you'll be flying, a good starting point for a carry-on when flying domestically is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 total linear inches (115 centimeters) including all handles and wheels. This size comes out to a 43-liter pack, so anything smaller should easily meet any U.S. airline size restrictions. However, this is only the beginning, and several factors may increase or decrease your allowance, such as the size of the plane and flight class you book.

This will vary based on your backpack's materials. For nylon and other water-resistant fabrics, get a damp cloth and spot-clean your pack. A damp cloth will also do the trick if your bag has plastic or metal elements. For leather backpacks, you’ll want to purchase a special leather conditioner and cleaner to maintain the integrity of your backpack.

This is an excellent feature if you plan on hiking or spending long periods carrying your backpack. It will help distribute the weight of your pack better across your body, ultimately providing more comfort. Most backpacks that are focused on outdoor adventures will have this feature.

Many backpacks are marketed as anti-theft, meaning it’s tougher for someone else to get inside your pack. Some backpacks have zippers that allow you to open the main interior compartment while wearing it—so you don’t have to take it off and risk having someone else pick it up. Others are designed with webbing over the zipper openings, making it very hard for someone to locate and unzip the bag while you have it on.

No, this is not the norm when it comes to backpacks. Compression cords make packing easier and function the same way a compression strap or cord would work in a regular suitcase. Some travel-focused carry-on backpacks do have this built-in. But if you want to squeeze in more items, consider investing in some packing cubes . These will help organize your backpack, too.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy’s Outdoor Gear Editor. He has traveled to five continents, including plane, train, and bus travel. For most travel scenarios, he prefers backpacks over spinners or roller suitcases because of their ruggedness and different carrying methods. He currently uses Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L, Thule’s Subterra, and Topo Design’s Global Travel Pack the most. Each product recommended in this review was thoroughly researched and tested.

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The Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The best ultralight backpacks offer optimized weight-to-volume ratios without compromising comfort or durability.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

The best ultralight backpacks have a large enough capacity to carry all your essentials, are comfortable to wear for hikes of all distances, and are durable enough to last several seasons on the trail. While not everyone needs an ultralight backpack—some hikers would be fine with a traditional backpacking backpack that may weigh a few extra pounds—they’re a game-changer for hikers who travel long distances, do endurance hikes, or seek lightweight, efficient gear for frequent backpacking trips. 

I am not trying to convince anyone not to get an ultralight backpack, but I want to express that they are optional for the average hiker to enjoy their outdoor adventures. Ultralight gear is often a larger monetary investment and can have slightly lower durability. Luckily, as our fabric technologies advance and product design develops, focusing on lighter gear, comfort, and durability has also improved. Below we’ve tested some of the best ultralight backpacks and ranked them on those features.

• Best Overall: ULA Circuit  
• Most Comfortable: Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50
• Best for Women: Deuter Aircontract Ultra
• Most Durable: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Junction
• Best Value: Osprey Exos 48

How We Picked the Best Ultralight Backpacks

For this guide, we consulted with industry experts, product developers, and ultralight enthusiasts to get their opinion on the best backpacks and then combined that with firsthand product experience. During the testing and research process, I did my best to narrow down the selection of options to fit specific needs and separate them into categories. 

When selecting the best ultralight backpacks, we also considered the following: 

• Durability:  What is the product lifespan? Are the materials durable? How sturdy is the stitching? Is there a product warranty or repair policy?
• Comfort:  Is the backpack comfortable to wear for extended hikes? How does the pack distribute weight? How adjustable is the pack? What are the suspension, ventilation, and padding like?
• Features:  How is the backpack organized? Are there any features that enhance the product experience? Do the features fit my adventure needs?
• Sustainability:  How transparent is the company about product sourcing and manufacturing processes? What is my projected frequency of use? Is a sustainability report available?

As further gear testing occurs or new products enter the market, products are subject to change, and descriptions may be updated. Updates about durability are likely, so check back for updated recommendations.

The Best Ultralight Backpacks: Reviews and Recommendations

• Materials: 100% Robic Nylon fabric, Teflon DWR, PU Coating, carbon fiber and Delrin suspension hoop, internal foam frame, aluminum stay
• Capacity:  68L
• Weight: 2.3 lbs
• Max Load: 35 lbs
• Made in the USA
• Lifetime warranty and repairs
• Customizable fit and features
• Fits any bear canister on the market
• High level of comfort
• Heavier than other ultralight pack designs
• Roll top closure could be more secure

Voted the most popular backpack on the Pacific Crest Trail for the past three years ( Halfway Anywhere Annual Survey of PCT Thru-Hikers ), the ULA Circuit is an ultralight backpack that seemingly has it all. This is a hard pack to beat, designed with surprisingly durable materials, a lifetime warranty, and a promise of tune-ups and repairs. Across the board, the ULA Circuit is known for its comfort on long-distance hikes, which may be partially due to the custom sizing and fit the brand offers upon purchase.

The advised maximum load-carrying capacity is 35 pounds, which is large enough for many backpackers to pack all the necessary basics. This pack also has an extension collar for additional storage required for colder weather or extended trips with more food. The bag is standard to pack with a top-loading roll top. Although this is efficient, the closure for the roll top can be challenging to latch at times and isn’t as secure as some cinch designs. There are a few exterior pockets that work well for stuffing and have a shocking amount of room. When carrying the bag within the recommended weight or lower, it offers a high level of comfort and feels very balanced. The pack is designed with an internal foam frame and aluminum stay, improving overall weight transfer and control. Even when fully loaded, you shouldn’t feel this backpack limits your range of motion on the trail.

• Materials: 70 denier Robic ripstop nylon, 100 denier Robic nylon, mesh fabric
• Capacity:  40L
• Weight: 1.9 lbs
• Max Load: 30 lbs
• Durable materials
• Excellent load-carrying comfort
• Large exterior pockets
• Versatile and adaptable use
• Functional features
• Not all bear canisters fit
• Not a lot of options for attaching gear to the outside of the pack

The Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 is an ideal balance of comfort and functionality in the world of ultralight backpacks. It is just under two pounds (1.9 pounds) at the measured weight but can be stripped down to 1.7 pounds. The interior capacity is optimized to carry a traditional amount of gear needed, but it may only be comfortable to carry some bear canister designs. The addition of the exterior mesh pockets adds a decent level of carrying capacity, making it even more functional for a variety of hiking trips.

Some hikers may even use this pack for day hikes, but it is also quite comfortable for backpacking trips when carrying 30 pounds or less. When carrying light loads, you can remove the frame and hip belt. For ideal comfort, we recommend sticking closer to 25 pounds with this pack, but it offers excellent comfort and a weight-to-volume ratio across the board. The shoulder straps are padded, and the weight transfer to the hip belt is optimal. When the pack is loaded, it doesn’t create pressure points or cause any potential hot spot issues because of the weight distribution.

While the external mesh pockets offer additional storage outside the main compartment, there are few places to attach gear to the outside of the pack (features lashing for ice axe and trekking poles). It would be possible to attach your cords to the outside if you felt it was necessary but depending on what you’re attaching, it could throw off the weight distribution.

• Materials:  175D Polyamide Ripstop Ultra HD, PFAS Free
• Capacity:  45 + 5L
• Weight:  2.6 lbs
• Deuter Lifetime Warranty
• Bluesign-certified backpack materials
• Exterior attachments for additional gear
• Customizable design
• Heavier than other ultralight models

The Deuter Aircontact Ultra is our pick for the best women’s ultralight backpack. While some may argue that it doesn’t fit within the ultralight category, the weight-to-volume ratio and level of comfort made it suitable for inclusion on this list. The low-weight profile is excellent for a lightweight backpack and has an optimal organization for short backpacking trips and beyond. Packing the primary compartment is easy, and since the pack lid is removable, it is nice that the cinching is secure to hold contents in place.

Although you’ll likely have plenty of space inside the pack for necessary equipment, the exterior pockets and straps allow for external gear storage. The compression straps can be manipulated to either strap things to the side (i.e., trekking poles) or to the front outside of the mesh panel. The lid and strap buckles are tiny, and I did have some concerns about the durability. They are easy to use and adjust, but if you are wearing gloves, it isn’t easy to open and close them. The weight distribution is adequate when the pack is under the max load weight capacity, and I noticed minimal load shifting while hiking. With some adjusting, it was easy to fit the backpack to my body, and it was comfortable on varying, steep terrain. I find it challenging to find a proper fit for some backpacks because I have a long torso and broad shoulders for a woman. This pack seems adjustable enough to be comfortable for various body types. During testing, my pack was around 30 lbs and even close to the max load capacity, the pack is comfortable to carry, and the weight sits primarily on the hips instead of the shoulders.

The backpack is standard to load with gear. The cinch closure and top-loading design are typical of many backpacking backpacks. I did wish there was a sleeping bag pocket on the bottom to make packing and unpacking easier, but with the capacity of this bag, that wasn’t much of a concern. The water bottle holder design was hard to access while wearing the pack, and it would be nice if that were more accessible. It isn’t the lightest pack on the list, but it seems durable, fits most women’s bodies quite well, and offers versatility as a lightweight backpacking option for year-round adventures.

Specs (white)

• Materials: Dyneema Composite Hybrid 50D and 150D, Mesh
• Capacity:  55L
• Weight: 2 lbs
• Max Load: 40 lbs
• Durable materials on side pockets
• Mesh panel is great for drying wet gear
• Roll top for additional pack compression
• Stays can be removed and bent to fit body shape
• Versatile for varying climates and terrain
• The hip belt is sewn in and not removable
• Shoulder straps are not the most comfortable
• The white pack color gets dirty easily

Made from highly durable Dyneema composite materials, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Junction 3400 is one of the most durable ultralight backpacks. This brand has several other backpack designs very similar to the Junction but with some varying features. This one is the most versatile in varying climates and terrains thanks to a mesh panel on the front to dry wet gear and Dyneema panel side pockets for optimal durability when off the trail.

The hip belt and shoulder straps are sewn into place, which can be seen as either a pro or a con. I recommend pulling the pack closer to your hips to provide a more balanced weight distribution and push more of the weight to sit on your hips instead of your shoulders. The discomfort from the shoulder straps could be partially due to the lack of external load lifters, which the company didn’t feel were necessary for this pack. Still, the shoulder strap design could be improved to be more comfortable for long-distance hikes. You can adjust the fit of the pack with the removable frame stays, which come pre-bent but can be bent and fitted to fit your body properly. If you’re carrying a load under the recommended weight, you shouldn’t have too much of an issue with weight distribution, but as you get closer to or surpass the max load weight, the pack becomes more uncomfortable.

• Materials: Bluesign® approved recycled 100D high tenacity nylon ripstop, PFC/PFAS-free DWR
• Capacity:  48L
• Weight: 2.7 lbs
• Made with 100% recycled materials
• Adjustable suspension
• Osprey Lifetime Warranty
• PFAS-free DWR
• Excellent ventilation
• Water bottle side pockets are hard to access while the pack is on

The Osprey Exos 48 is an excellent mid-sized lightweight backpacking pack option. It has a max load weight of about 30 pounds, and once you reach that weight, the backpack will only support the weight well. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid discomfort while hiking with any ultralight pack. For the price, it is hard to beat the quality of an Osprey pack, which is primarily known for its durability. This pack offers a lightweight option suitable for ultralight backpacking trips. If you’re familiar with Osprey backpacks, you’ll recognize many similar features and qualities, like the airspeed suspension and optimal ventilation for hiking in warm conditions.

The pack’s fit is adjustable and comfortable for men and women of varying body sizes. The mesh materials and seams have been improved for durability to make this pack suitable for long-distance hikes and weekend trips. When fitted correctly and packed within the load range, this pack provides excellent weight distribution and comfort on the trail. Like all Osprey packs, we wish the water bottle side pockets were more convenient. The size of this pack makes it doable to take the water bottle out while wearing it, but it is near impossible to put the bottle back without taking your pack off.

While this isn’t necessarily a budget backpack, it is an excellent value at a lower price than many other ultralight options. Osprey offers a lifetime warranty and repair options, even if you buy the pack used.

What to Consider When Choosing an Ultralight Backpack 

Intended use.

Before deciding on the best ultralight backpack for you, it is essential to identify the right fit for your needs. When choosing any form of backpacking pack, knowing how you plan to use the backpack helps narrow down your options. 

Ultralight backpacks are ideal for hikers who want to go long distances carrying minimal gear, or who are traveling across trails on a speed or endurance track. Most average hikers can get away with more traditional backpacks that offer a higher level of comfort and durability (and often a lower price). Big game hunters would be advised to shy away from ultralight designs and should opt for hunting-specific backpacks as their pack weight can change, and carrying out additional weight would not only be uncomfortable but can wear on the pack design. Still, many ultralight backpacks offer features that backpackers in many disciplines enjoy. 

The backpack’s size, comfort, and features that best suit your desired hiking experience reflect your intended use and often the frequency of use. If you’re a backpacker who only goes on one trip a year, you not necessarily need to invest in entirely ultralight equipment. However, if you go on various trips with distance goals and want to minimize weight in any way possible, you’ll benefit more from an ultralight setup. That’s not to say that not everyone could be happy with an ultralight backpack but to say that they aren’t necessary for all backpacking scenarios. 

Knowing your budget can also influence these decisions. Before jumping into the other considerations, I’ve always found it helpful to identify both the intended use and frequency of use. That way, you can find a backpack suitable for the type of terrain, the distance, and the climate, suits your preexisting gear, and has the comfort level of your preference. 

Although the focus of an ultralight backpack is the weight, it also needs to be comfortable under the loaded weight of our gear. Most hikers hitting the trail with an ultralight backpack carry anywhere from 15 to 30 pounds. Some ultralight backpacks may be able to carry more weight physically, but they may not be as comfortable under a heavier load.

There are ways that ultralight hikers can strip down the weight of the pack, if you’re on a short trip or if you have super ultralight gear. When stripping a pack for weight, you can remove the waist belt, internal frame , and other components, depending on the brand.

The frame and pack construction can impact how comfortable it is across different weight loads. For example, packs made by Osprey tend to have a stiffer back panel and more padding, making them less comfortable with lighter loads. So consider the base weight when looking for an ultralight backpack. If you’re on the higher end of the weight, a pack like the Osprey Exos 48 might be an excellent choice, but if you’re closer to 12 to 20 pounds, backpacks that can more easily be stripped down or don’t have a tensioned frame are a more comfortable option.

The volume of the pack reflects the capacity. When it comes to pack capacity, look at the overall weight-to-volume ratio, a.k.a. how much the pack can carry in relation to its weight. The capacity of backpacks only includes what can be carried inside the backpack. Many ultralight backpack designs feature several ways to attach gear to the pack’s exterior. When discussing volume, we only discuss the main compartment, exterior pockets, and backpack lid. Some pockets, the lid, straps, and frames can be removed from ultralight backpack models to adjust and reduce weight when necessary, impacting the overall volume.

Knowing how much room your base weight gear occupies within a backpack helps you know which capacity bag is appropriate for your hiking needs. The best ultralight backpacks are highly versatile and have some adaptability according to the type of gear being carried. The weight-to-volume ratio can also tell you how suitable an ultralight pack is to carry heavier loads. Ultralight bags with higher capacities should also have a higher level of comfort.

Like other backpacking backpacks, ultralight backpacks measure volume in liters (some in cubic inches, but that’s less common).

Standard ranges for backpack sizes include: 

• Overnight Packs:  35L or less
•   Weekend Packs:  35-50L
•   Multi-Day Packs:  50-75L
•   Big Game Hunting Packs:  50L or more
•   Winter Multi-Day Packs:  75L or more

The ranges listed above are for all backpacking packs. Most ultralight backpacks range from 30-65L, but most likely, they will be less than 50L in most cases. If you are building an ultralight backpacking kit, we recommend purchasing all your other gear before investing in a backpack. Having the base weight of equipment on hand gives you a better idea of the size and weight-to-volume ratio necessary.

Durability 

An ultralight backpack’s durability is surprisingly high if used for its intended purpose. If you frequently head out with loads over 30 pounds in an ultralight pack, the weight will degrade the materials and frame much faster than utilizing the ultralight focus of the bag appropriately. We cannot say that an ultralight backpack is as durable as a standard backpack weighing 3 to 6 pounds. Those backpacks use stronger and more durable materials because they’re designed to withstand carrying heavier weights.

Ultralight backpacks can be durable and long-lasting if they are used within their intended load range, are cleaned often, and stored correctly (and if you perform other maintenance as needed). Most ultralight backpacks should last at least the length of well-known thru-hikes like the AT or the PCT. The best ultralight backpacks should last much longer than that and have the potential to be your primary backpack for several years and thousands of trail miles.

Since ultralight backpacks reduce the number of additional features and zippers, they often require less maintenance. The primary aspect that contributes to the bag’s durability is the material of the main pack body and any exterior pocket fabric. Mesh, no matter the type of pack it is on, is a less durable material and can quickly develop holes or snags. The fabric’s denier indicates how durable it is (remember, the higher the denier number, the stronger the material).

The frame can also have some durability concerns. Some ultralight backpacks utilize carbon fiber frames to cut weight, but if you are concerned about durability, opting for a pack with an aluminum frame may be beneficial.

In the end, we acknowledge that ultralight gear has some trade-offs, one of which can be durability. However, I’ve found that ultralight gear can last just as long if treated with care. Pay attention to how the pack is stored. Don’t just toss the bag into the back of your truck after a hike, and avoid overstuffing the pockets. These little things all cause wear; over time, they can degrade the pack enough to make it no longer functional in the field.

Q: Are ultralight backpacks worth it?

Ultralight backpacks can be worth it for the right hikers. If you only do a few trips a year and aren’t aiming to set a speed record or go a long distance, ultralight gear isn’t usually necessary. Finding a comfortable backpacking backpack should be a priority, and if that pack happens to be ultralight, great! For thru-hikers, endurance hikers, and other long-distance ventures, an ultralight pack can be a good investment but still isn’t necessary for success or comfort on the trail.

Q: How do I pack an ultralight backpack?

Packing an ultralight backpack is similar to packing a traditional backpacking pack. To help distribute weight more evenly, we recommend stacking gear in horizontal layers instead of in vertical segments. Heavier equipment should be lower in the pack to prevent load shifting, and consider packing gear in waterproof bags or lining the backpack with a trash liner or trash bag. Some backpacks may be waterproof, but most ultralight bags are made from materials with minimal waterproof properties, so a rain cover or other waterproofing is necessary.

Q: How big should an ultralight backpack be?

Ultralight backpackers tend to have smaller backpacks because they carry less gear. A savvy packer can get away with an ultralight back in the range of 40-55L; some ultralight hikers may even carry a bag as small as 35L. Traditional backpackers are more likely to have a bag ranging from 55-65L, and some ultralight bags do come in larger capacities but may not be as comfortable to use while carrying a heavy load.

Q: What is ultralight vs. lightweight backpacking?

Ultralight versus lightweight (and super ultralight) definitions revolve around the measurements of the base backpack weight. A lightweight backpacker generally has a base weight of around 20 pounds, an ultralight packer will be closer to 10 pounds, and super ultralight hikers carry a base weight of 5 pounds or less. The base weight of a backpack is the weight of your standard backpack plus the gear minus any consumables (food, water, fuel). Consumables are any items you use during the trip that decrease in weight and volume.

Q: How do I know if my backpack is too heavy?

A loaded backpacking pack should weigh at most 20 percent of your body weight. A day hiking pack should be at most 10 percent of your body weight. You can tell if a backpack is too heavy if it throws you off balance while you are hiking, you may become fatigued much faster, dehydration sets in quickly, you lean too far forward while walking, the pack height is above your head, and the general discomfort of wearing the backpack is high. These factors can also be influenced by packing a backpack improperly, your body size, or lack of physical fitness for the terrain and distance.

Final Thoughts on the Best Ultralight Backpacks

The best ultralight backpacks are designed to carry an average base weight of 10 to 20 pounds. Carrying a heavy load with an ultralight backpack isn’t common, so remember that these packs are often more comfortable at a lower weight. The backpacks we feature on our list are options backpackers of all ability levels can use and would likely be happy with on various types of hikes. We encourage investing in a backpack that you feel not only reflects your intended use but also has a quality build, and the company offers a lifetime warranty and repairs. Even with durable products, with extensive outdoor use, the damage is bound to happen. Make the most of your purchase by investing in a product that will last a lifetime on the trail.

Why Trust Us

For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.

Author of the Outdoor Minimalist and host of the Outdoor Minimalist podcast, Meg Carney, has been an outdoor and environmental writer for over six years. After studying communication arts and literature in Duluth, Minnesota, she pursued various outdoor-industry jobs that eventually led her to her current career in freelance writing.

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I Trekked Solo for 3 Days With Just a Backpack, and These Are the 15 Things I’m Glad I Packed — From $9

They kept this avid hiker and camper safe across 25-plus miles of mountainous terrain.

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Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

I am an avid backpacker who has hiked and camped all over the world for the past 20 years. While most of my trips have been with my family, this year, I decided to challenge myself on a solo multi-day hiking and camping trip in Ras Al Khaimah UAE . I signed up for the Highlander UAE , one of the toughest hiking challenges in Asia, and over three days, I trekked about 40 kilometers (25 miles), ascending and descending 2,000 meters across rugged mountainous terrain. From the outset, I recognized the importance of managing the weight of my backpack , knowing it would determine whether I could complete the hike unassisted — which was a personal goal of mine.

After many product trials, I was able to narrow my backpacking checklist down to the ideal lightweight camping gear setup; it helped keep my pack weight at the recommended 10 kilograms (23 pounds) and ensure that everything that I needed fit in just one bag. Curious to know how I did it (and what made the cut)? Keep scrolling to learn more about the lightweight backpacking gear that will now make up my packing arrangement for every camping trip going forward.

Osprey Viva 45 Women's Backpacking Backpack

Since weight was my primary concern, I wanted a pack that would be simple to adjust on the fly without too many bells and whistles. Enter: the Osprey Viva 45 Women's Backpacking Backpack. Its base weight is 4.4 pounds and it has just one main compartment with a top lid opening as well as a rain cover in case of unexpected weather, which I experienced every day on the trail. What's more, it boasts a one-size-fits-all design with dual-side compression straps, dual trekking pole loops, and front panel lash loops to attach any extra gear that you don’t need on the trail.

It is ideal for shorter trips to the backcountry and has thick padding on the shoulder straps and back frame, which gives you additional support. I found the internal hydration sleeve with the hose port very handy as I could combine the Viva 45 with an external 5-liter hydration bladder seamlessly.

REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent With Footprint

At just under 6 pounds, REI’s Trailmade Two-person Tent was an easy choice for my backcountry hike. It also has a very simple setup that is easy to put up and take down at the campsite, making it an ideal backpacking tent. The Trailmade also has two small internal pockets to store your gear, but you can tuck your pack under the vestibule cover if you don’t want to bring it into the tent. With its 87-inch by 50-inch frame, it has the space to sleep shoulder-to-shoulder (in case you are sharing your tent with a fellow hiker) and put some gear at your feet. It also rained the first night on the trail and the tent kept out the moisture fairly well. 

Karthika Gupta

Exped Ultra 1R Sleeping Pad

To pad or not to pad is probably one of the biggest debated topics among backpackers. If you want to shave off some weight from your pack, you might be tempted to skip bringing one. But thanks to great advances in camping gear technology and sleeping pads like the Exped Ultra series , you don’t need to. At just 13.4 ounces. (medium size), the Ultra 1R sleeping pad made it easy to keep my overall pack weight in check without sacrificing a good night's sleep at camp. The mat inflates to 3 inches, so it provides comfort and protection from rocky and uneven terrains.

What's more, the air chambers are oriented head-to-toe, so the pad becomes slightly wider when weighted. This pad has a durable, easy-to-use, one-way flat valve that provides a high volume of airflow to ensure that you can quickly inflate and deflate the pad.

REI Co-op Magma 30 Sleeping Bag

If there is one piece of advice that I can offer for those who want to try their hand at backcountry camping, it's to invest in the lightest but warmest possible sleeping bag because it can make or break your experience. Getting a good night’s sleep, especially when you have multiple days on the trail, is crucial for your overall hiking performance. REI’s Magma 30 Sleeping Bag is one of my favorite pieces of gear to date and, at an average weight of 1 pound 10 ounces, it has earned its place as my MVP backpacking sleeping bag. 

It is made with a recycled downproof shell and water-resistant, 850-fill-power goose down for a cozy and comfortable snooze. The durable water-repellent (DWR) finish on the shell and lining beads off moisture so you will not wake up in a damp bag. My favorite part is that the zipper wraps around the front of your chest so you have more range of motion to zip and unzip yourself from the bag without feeling claustrophobic. The inner stash pocket is great for safely storing personal items close by.

REI Co-op Flash TT Women’s Hiking Boots

I have been a Merrell hiking boot fan for as far back as I can remember, but let me tell you: it was love at first stride when I tried on the Flash TT Hiking boots from REI . Right off the bat, they were so lightweight (they come in at 2 pounds, 2 ounces) and felt like I was walking on air. They also have a sock-like feel thanks to the stretchy gussets on the tongue, and the knit uppers bring the flexible feel of running shoes that molds to your foot stride. These features also kept my feet from overheating because the knit uppers helped with breathability. The insoles are decently thick and offer good arch support. They came in handy when I had to climb boulders and rocks on the trail. 

One tip is to go half a size up if your trail is remotely technical. I had almost a 2,000-meter descent on the final day of my three-day hike, and my toes were slightly bruised due to the constant downward pressure. 

Smartwool Women's Performance Hike Clear Canyon Light Cushion Ankle Socks

After hiking hundreds of miles in my lifetime, I have come to realize that hiking socks are just as important as hiking shoes. They are the understated heroes of any great hike as they help support your feet while keeping away moisture and odor. My Smartwool Performance Hike Clear Canyon Light Cushion ankle socks gave me the comfort of merino wool and nylon while having appropriate mesh zones that add to the breathability. The seamless toes also enhanced their comfort and offered a better, more performance-oriented fit overall. 

Ibex Women's Merino 24-hour Short-sleeve Low Crew Tee 

The Ibex women's Merino 24-hour short-sleeved low crew tee is my go-to for spring and warm-weather hiking, and it certainly didn’t disappoint in the hot UAE climate. Merino wool is naturally moisture-wicking, thermoregulating, odor-resistant, and breathable, so I knew that I could get by with wearing it for multiple days. It is form-fitting and soft, making it a great base layer to be paired with a light jacket in the morning (and worn by itself during the day as the temperature rises).

I also appreciated the curved hemline because it helped the shirt fit more comfortably over my hips without riding up, especially with my pack on. Ibex uses a proprietary steaming process on the wool fabric, creating a cool-to-the-touch feel that's more versatile in different climates. This is one apparel item that I know I am going to reach for repeatedly.

The North Face Women’s EA Dune Sky 9-inch Tight Shorts

These women's North Face shorts are made with soft, 80 percent recycled fabric and enhanced with the brand's moisture-wicking Flash Dry technology. This makes them ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities, especially in warm weather. After hiking 13 kilometers on the first day, I appreciated the fact that my thighs were not chaffed thanks to the breathable fabric and 9-inch inseams of these tights.

They are also fitted at the waist and thighs to keep them from riding up. The non-compressed, stretchy fit made these shorts extra comfortable, especially as the day progressed and my body continued to retain water. The drop-in side thigh pockets fit my phone and a small tube of sunscreen for easy access.

Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Women’s Pants

Kuhl's Freeflex roll-up pants were my one pair of back-up clothing, so I am glad that I was able to pack them in. The nights in the arid mountain desert got super cold, especially on the first night on the trail when it rained; the roll-down feature of these pants saved the day. They also have a comfortable stretch and I slept in them without feeling constricted. What's more, the Kuhl pants offer sun protection and are made with a sweat-wicking fabric, allowing them to easily double as hiking pants during the day.

These pants also have a wide waistband with internal drawcord adjustment, so I could wear them in the early morning over my hiking shorts to ward off the cold. The bottom leg-opening is wide at 15.5 inches, which means that they fit comfortably over high-top hiking shoes.

Tifosi Swank Sport Sunglasses

If you worry about losing or damaging your expensive sunglasses on the trail, then get yourself a pair of the Swank Sport sunnies from Tifosi. They have shatterproof, polycarbonate glare-reducing lenses and 100 percent UVA/UVB protection from harmful sun rays. At less than 1 pound, they are perfect for all-day comfort and easily stashing in your pack. They come in over 25 different colorways and lens tints, so there are many options to choose from.

Leki Makalu Lite Cork Trekking Poles

Even if you are hiking on relatively flat terrain, a pair of trekking poles is a great piece of gear to keep handy. They help take the pressure off your knees and make for a smoother, sturdier stride, especially if you are traversing long distances. The Leki Makalu Lite Cork Trekking Poles feature adjustable lengths and are lightweight (weighing in at just 9 ounces). The cork surface absorbs sweat while allowing for maximum grip and control, something that you'll be grateful for when going downhill. Adjustable lock security skin straps can be looped around your wrists as added support and to keep the poles in place when you're in the groove (or tackling a sharp descent).

LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Water Filter System

Water was my biggest concern on my multi-day backpacking hike. While the water bladder in my pack provided most of what I needed during the day, I supplemented my hydration with the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Water Filter System. I felt very safe knowing that the water I was refilling was clean as the micron filter removes 99.9 percent of all bacteria and microplastics along with silt, sand, and cloudiness.

The membrane microfilter also lasts up to 500 gallons before needing replacing, so I know that this one is coming with me on all of my hikes going forward. I hooked the squeeze bottle to the easily accessible mesh pocket of my pack for hassle-free accessibility, eliminating the need to stop or unload the pack to grab the water bottle.

Primus Essential Trail Stove Kit

The Primus Essential Trail Stove Kit has been my go-to camp kitchen setup for years, even when I hike with my family or in a group. It is lightweight and, more importantly, compact in that all of the different parts of the stove kit stack up and fit neatly when not in use. It is an ideal backcountry stove and cooking kit for one to two people and includes a stove, a 0.5-liter aluminum pot, and a skillet all-in-one. You'll just need to buy the fuel separately if you are flying internationally with this kit.

CamelBak Horizon 12-ounce Camp Mug

While I can make do without a lot of creature comforts on the trail, one thing that I can't give up is my morning cup of coffee. Thankfully, I remembered to pack my CamelBak Horizon Camp Mug and clipped it to one of the many loops outside my backpack for easy access. On both days of the hike, I passed by many fellow hikers who were taking a coffee break and were only too happy to share some with me. It also comes in handy as a makeshift bowl when needed.  

Black Diamond LiteWire Carabiner

I have been using carabiners for my camping, hiking, and overall travel gear for years now. They are a great inexpensive tool to clip those little odds and ends items to your bag or camping pack securely without any second thought. I used them to clip my coffee mug, my jacket, and even my hiking bib number on the outside of my pack for easy identification. Having them handy was super convenient and helped give me hands-free access to all of the things that make it out of the pack during the hike.

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The 12 Best Backpacks for Traveling in 2024

More and more travelers are trading in their oversized “wheely” suitcases for the comfort and convenience of backpacks.

However, not all backpacks are created equal. They come in a dizzying array of sizes, shapes, and styles, from minimalistic bags for city day-trippers to heavy-duty versions for backcountry hiking.

So, which backpack is best for you, your budget, and your  unique travel  needs? Keep reading to discover 12 of the best backpacks for traveling this year.

1. Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L

The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L is another option with outstanding durability and versatility, making it a top choice for adventurers.

Notable features include rugged weather-resistant construction, reinforced with TPU-film laminate, and durable water-repellent (DWR) coating. This ensures it can withstand even the harshest weather conditions.

Its large 55-liter capacity offers ample space for gear without allowing you to overpack, while multiple carrying options – backpack straps and haul handles – enhance convenience. Additionally, it’s made from recycled materials, which is perfect for the  eco-friendly traveler .

The bag’s hefty price tag might deter budget-conscious buyers; some find the lack of interior organization pockets a drawback. Overall, it’s a high-quality, eco-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts from another trustworthy brand in the space.

2. Aer Travel Pack 3

The Aer Travel Pack 3 backpack is a popular choice for travel enthusiasts and those with  traveling jobs , offering a blend of exceptional features.

Its best attributes include a sleek minimalist design crafted from durable 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon. The 33-liter capacity offers plenty of space for essentials, with thoughtful pockets and compartments for all your gadgets.

Comfortable and adjustable straps enhance its wearability, while a dedicated shoe compartment helps keep things clean and tidy.

Downsides include its bulkiness when fully packed, which might be inconvenient for some, and premium build quality with a similarly premium price point. Nevertheless, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is a stylish, functional companion for short-term urban travel or anyone seeking a sleek carry-on.

3. Osprey Aether

The Osprey Aether backpack offers exceptional comfort for hikers and travelers alike.

Its adjustable harness and hip belt make it ideal for long treks – or long security lines at the airport – and its internal frame provides excellent load distribution, reducing strain on the back.

Multiple compartments and pockets aid in organization, and the Aether also includes a hydration sleeve for those carrying a water bladder. This backpack is known for its durability with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, and Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee covers it.

At almost five pounds, its weight may be a drawback for some, as it’s not the lightest option on the list. It’s also relatively expensive compared to other brands. Still, the Aether remains a top choice for avid hikers and travelers seeking a reliable backpack that’s both comfortable and durable.

4. REI Co-op Flash 55 Backpack

The REI Co-op Flash 55 backpack is a versatile and affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

Standout features include its lightweight design – just three pounds – making it comfortable for extended hikes, the 55-liter capacity that provides ample storage, and numerous pockets for keeping everything organized.

Adjustable shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel offer comfort during long treks. It’s also reasonably priced compared to many competitor options.

Unsurprisingly, for a budget-friendlier backpack, its durability may not match premium brands. Some users also find the frame is less supportive with heavy loads. Despite these drawbacks, the REI Co-op Flash 55 shines as an affordable, lightweight pack that deserves its place on this list of the best  backpacks for travel .

5. Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack

The Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack is a multipurpose, compact daypack for outdoor enthusiasts.

Noteworthy features include its water-resistant G-1000 Eco fabric construction, which ensures longevity and durability. The 15-liter capacity is ideal for day hikes and short urban adventures, with a roll-top closure for easy access and expandability. It’s also super lightweight, making it easier to carry, and the removable foam frame adds support.

However, the smaller size of the foldsack may limit its use for longer trips. Some users may find the minimalist design lacks extra pockets for organization.

Overall, the Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack is a stylish, highly functional daypack for a wide range of  adventures with your friends .

6. Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Pack

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Pack is a high-performance ultralight backpack designed for serious adventurers.

Its premier features include a waterproof Dyneema Composite Fabric construction. As the name suggests, this makes it highly durable and weather-resistant while remaining lightweight.

With a 40-liter capacity, this backpack is spacious enough for multi-day trips and includes a roll-top closure for easy access. The minimalistic design and robust materials ensure longevity, while adjustable straps enhance comfort on the road.

The premium price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers, and some may miss additional organizational pockets. Nevertheless, this is another of the best backpacks for travelers seeking something lightweight, durable, and suitable for challenging outdoor expeditions.

7. Cotopaxi Allpa 42L

The highly-rated Cotopaxi Allpa 42L backpack stands out with its versatility and stylish, sustainable design.

Noteworthy features include its recycled polyester fabric with a TPU coating for weather resistance, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. The 42-liter capacity offers a useful amount of space for longer trips. And it boasts a clever selection of compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve.

Its harness system and padded waist belt ensure a pleasant carrying experience. The unique, vibrant color schemes make it easy to spot on the luggage carousel.

Downsides? Some travelers may find it somewhat heavy for a carry-on bag with a relatively high price point. All things considered, the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L impresses with its eco-conscious construction and functional design.

8. Gregory Baltoro 75

The Gregory Baltoro 75 backpack is a rugged, top-tier choice for serious backpacking enthusiasts.

Its best features include an adjustable Response A3 suspension system, which offers unparalleled comfort and load support. Its cavernous 75-liter capacity accommodates extended trips and heavy gear, complemented by numerous pockets and access points for efficient organization.

The backpack’s durability and robust materials ensure longevity, while its integrated rain cover adds weather protection.

Its weight and size may be overkill for some hikers/travelers, and it comes with a heavy price tag. Despite these potential drawbacks, the Gregory Baltoro 75 is a comfortable, feature-rich  backpack for anyone tackling extended trips  or tough outdoor expeditions.

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L

The Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L is a versatile carry-on backpack for urban explorers.

Noteworthy features include a sleek, minimalist design that adheres to airline size restrictions. The 30-liter capacity offers ample space for essentials, with thoughtful organization pockets for tech gadgets and accessories.

It’s comfortable to wear with padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel. The backpack’s durable materials ensure longevity, while the hideaway shoulder straps add versatility.

However, the smaller size might not suit longer trips, and the lack of a hip belt could limit comfort for some users with heavier loads. The Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L is a compact, stylish choice for city adventures. Tip: travelers seeking slightly more space could consider the 40-liter version.

10. Osprey Transporter Global Carry-On Travel Backpack

The Osprey Transporter Global Carry-On Travel Backpack is another versatile travel companion with many impressive features.

Its most noteworthy attributes include a durable TPU-coated nylon construction, which offers good weather resistance and longevity. Similarly, the 36-liter capacity adheres to global carry-on size regulations, making it perfect for hassle-free air travel.

The backpack’s comfortable harness system includes a padded hip belt and adjustable shoulder straps for a customized fit. It also offers excellent organization with multiple pockets and a padded laptop sleeve.

The lack of wheels might be a drawback for some travelers, and, like most Osprey packs, it isn’t cheap. This would be a robust, attractive, well-organized, and spacious carry-on for frequent flyers.

11. ULA Circuit Backpack

The ULA Circuit backpack is a favorite among thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers.

Its standout features include a spacious 68-liter capacity, ideal for extended wilderness trips. It also has a comfortable, adjustable suspension system to handle heavy loads.

The rugged Cordura fabric ensures durability, while the numerous external and internal pockets facilitate organization. It has a custom-fit option, allowing buyers to tailor the pack to their needs.

On the downside, its three-pound weight may be considered “heavy” in the ultralight community. Some users also find the lack of frame uncomfortable with heavy loads. Nevertheless, the ULA Circuit is a hardwearing, customizable backpack for anyone serious about long-distance treks.

12. Kelty Redwing Tactical Backpack

The Kelty Redwing Tactile backpack is affordable and versatile for outdoor enthusiasts.

Notable features include a rugged 500D Kodra fabric construction, offering both durability and water resistance. Its 45-liter capacity provides ample space for gear, complete with multiple pockets and organization options.

The U-shaped zipper provides easy access to the main compartment, while the padded shoulder straps and ventilated back panel enhance comfort during extended use.

However, some users may find the tactical aesthetics less appealing for urban settings. And the absence of a dedicated laptop compartment could be another drawback for city travelers. Yet its popularity as a well-built, robust pack is undeniable.

The Best Backpacks for Traveling: Which Will You Choose?

Ultimately, picking the best backpacks for you will depend on where you’re going, what you’re doing, and how long you’ll be there.

As we’ve seen, there are high-quality packs for day-trippers, weekend wanders, long-term travelers, and everybody in between. One of the options on this list is sure to be the perfect traveling backpack for you.

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Table of contents

10 Best Backpacking & Camping Hammocks of 2024

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Whether you’re looking for a hammock as a sleep system while backpacking, something comfy to swing in while car camping, or a luxury hammock for relaxing in the backyard, we’ve got you covered. We compare weight, packability, and suspension systems and look at different price points for all sorts of hammocks. We’ve researched 100 models over a decade and tested 50 on 300 nights of camping to put together this list of the very best options available.

To complete the perfect setup for a cat nap, you also need to check out our guide to the best camping blankets and pillows to pair with your hammock. And if catching serious Zs is a crucial part of your outdoor experience, then there’s something for you on our lists of our favorite camping mattresses and sleeping pads .

Quick Picks for Camping Hammocks

Check out this quick list of our favorite hammocks, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Best hammock overall: Warbonnet Blackbird XLC ($200)

Best two-person hammock: ENO DoubleNest ($75)

Best ultralight hammock: Hummingbird Single ($74)

Best complete backpacking hammock: Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip ($240)

Best budget hammock: Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro ($70)

Best luxury hammock: ENO Skyloft ($130)

Best value hammock: Sea to Summit Pro ($120)

Most versatile backpacking hammock: Dutchware Chameleon ($135)

Best hammock/bivy hybrid: Lawson Blue Ridge ($225)

Unique 2-person tree tent for car camping: Tentsile Connect 3.0 ($599)

The CleverHiker team continues to test new hammocks against our long-time favorites:

• The Warbonnet Blackbird XLC earns a top spot for its comfort, light weight, and thoughtful design that make it and all-around standout.
• The ENO DoubleNest is our favorite for two. It’s easy to setup and great for car camping.
• The Hummingbird Single is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a truly ultralight but comfortable hammock setup.

• Warbonnet Blackbird XLC

Best hammock overall

Price: $200

Weight: 1 lb. 6.3 oz. (hammock, stuff sack, attached guylines, integrated bug net)

Weight Limit: 350 lb. (up to 275 lb. for comfort)

Dimensions: 132 x 62 in.

• Easy to lay flat in
• Built-in shelf
• Integrated bug net
• Can be used on the ground
• Straps cost extra

The Warbonnet Blackbird XLC is one of the most comfortable backpacking hammocks on the market, and it’s particularly popular with thru-hikers because of its ultralight design. Some of the details that make the Blackbird our go-to include the asymmetrical cut, the large shelf panel for gear storage, and the ability to zip in a top cover for cold weather. When you order yours, you’ll have the option of a single layer or double layer Blackbird. The double-layer design increases the max weight capacity and allows you to use a sleeping pad with your hammock. We use the single-layer because it weighs less, and we prefer to use an underquilt instead of a pad when hammocking. If you’re looking for a top-quality ultralight hammock for backpacking, the Blackbird is your guy.

ENO Doublenest

Best two-person hammock

Weight: 1 lb. 3.5 oz. (hammock, stuff sack, carabiners)

Weight Limit: 400 lb.

Dimensions: 114 x 76 in.

• Easy to hang
• Lots of colors/patterns
• A little heavy/bulky for backpacking
• Straps sold separately

The extra-wide ENO DoubleNest is roomy and tough enough to fit two people comfortably, so it’s awesome for lounging around camp with a pal. It comes in a bunch of fun color combinations for showing off your personal style, and it’s incredibly easy to set up using the included carabiners. Straps aren’t included, though, so be sure to pick up some Atlas Straps (or Atlas XL Straps for extra length) if you’re planning to string it up between trees instead of on a hammock stand . We recommend the Doublenest for those who want the option to pair up while relaxing in a casual setting like the park, the beach, or on car camping trips. For solo hammockers, check out the Eno Singlenest or the ultralight ENO Sub6 .

• Hummingbird Single

Best ultralight hammock

Weight: 5.5 oz. (hammock & stuff sack)

Weight Limit: 300 lb.

Dimensions: 104 x 47 in.

• Highly packable
• A little less roomy than others

The Hummingbird Single is incredibly lightweight and compact, so you can take it pretty much anywhere. We like bringing the Single (and Hummingbird’s Ultralight Tree Straps ) along with us as a luxury item on backpacking trips, so we have a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the views. It’s not as wide as some other hammocks, so it’s not our first choice to sleep in. But if you just need something simple for relaxing on a trail break, you’ll love the Hummingbird Single. If you want a little extra room for integrating into a complete overnight kit, check out the Hummingbird Single+ (116 x 63 in) or the Hummingbird Double (116 x 85 in). Check out our full review of the Hummingbird Single and Tree Straps here .

• Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip

Best complete backpacking hammock system

Price: $240 (complete system)

Weight: 2 lb. 1.8 oz. (complete system)

Weight Limit: 200 lb.

Dimensions: 100 x 47 in.

• Comes with everything you need to set up & weatherproof
• Affordable for a complete setup
• Can be used on the ground (requires trekking poles)
• Requires some knots for set up
• Low weight capacity

Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced hammock backpacker, you’ll appreciate that the Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip comes complete with everything you need to hit the trail. Setting up the Backpacker requires some knowledge of simple knots, but once you get the hang of it the whole system goes up in a matter of minutes. The asymmetrical shape allows you to easily lay flat, and the bug mesh can be conveniently clipped back for stargazing. Overall, the Ultralight Backpacker hammock is an excellent value since you’re getting everything you need for overnighting, and it’s been a favorite with thru-hikers and casual backpackers alike for many years.

• Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro

Best budget hammock

Weight: 1 lb. 15.2 oz. (hammock, stuff sack, carabiners, integrated bug net, guylines)

Dimensions: 126 x 60 in.

• A little heavier/bulkier than others

The Skeeter Beeter Pro is a good budget buy for people looking to dip a toe into hammock camping without spending a large chunk of change. It’s designed with a built-in no-see-um mesh canopy to protect against insects, and you can flip the whole hammock over to use it without the canopy if bugs aren’t a problem. The weight is also relatively low – especially for the price – but you’ll need to add a tarp and a suspension system to make it backpacking ready. The Skeeter Beeter Pro is an excellent choice whether you’re looking for a starter camping hammock or you need a comfy retreat in a buggy backyard.

• ENO Skyloft

Best luxury hammock

Price: $130

Weight: 2 lb. 12.5 oz. (hammock, carabiners, stuff sack)

Weight Limit: 250 lb.

Dimensions: 84 x 36 in.

• Very comfortable
• Spreader bars make it roomy
• Easy to set up
• Bulky/heavy

The ENO Skyloft is perfect for those wanting a backyard lounger or a luxurious place to snooze on car camping trips. It’s designed with spreader bars at the head and foot to give you plenty of room to sprawl without the sides closing in on you. This unique hammock also allows you to switch between two modes: relax and sleep. Sleep mode gives you the perfect flat lay for napping, and pulling the cords at the head raises you up into the more upright relax mode for enjoying conversation or reading a book. The Skyloft is the créme de la créme if you’re looking for an ultra comfy place to hang around camp.

• Sea to Summit Pro

Best value hammock

Price: $120 (includes straps)

Weight: 19.7 oz. (hammock, straps, compression sack)

Dimensions: 108 x 60 in.

• Straps & compression sack included
• Smaller than some
• Fabric isn’t as soft as some
• Buckle suspension takes some getting used to

The Sea to Summit Pro Hammock is an excellent value since it packs down super small in its included compression sack, it’s lightweight, and it comes with straps. On top of that, it’s incredibly strong with a high max weight capacity of 400 lbs. – pretty impressive for such a lightweight piece of gear. The included buckle suspension system takes some getting used to, but it’s simple to set up once you get the hang of it and very durable. The Pro Hammock is great for park hangs and car camping, but it’s also light and compact enough for backpacking if you pick up a tarp and bug net to complete the kit.

• Dutchware Chameleon

Most versatile backpacking hammock

Price: $135 (hammock only)

Weight: 1 lb. 4.3 oz. (hammock, stuff sack, attached guylines)

Weight Limit: 200-350 lb. (depends on which fabric you choose)

Dimensions: 128 x 58 in.

• Customizable

The Dutchware Chameleon is very appropriately named, because it can adapt to so many different situations. The innovative design allows you to transform this hammock from a bugproof summer haven to a toasty cold-weather shell in a matter of minutes by zipping in different accessories. The Chameleon has a ton of options for customization as well, like adding a shelf or a gear sling on the side. And while the custom process can be a little complex, Dutchware provides helpful descriptions and videos to walk you through the selection process. The Chameleon is the ultimate versatile system for serious hammock backpackers who hang no matter the trail conditions.

• Lawson Blue Ridge

Best hammock/bivy hybrid

Price: $229 (hammock only)

Weight: 4 lb. 4.2 oz. (complete setup except suspension)

Weight Limit: 275 lb.

Dimensions: 90 x 42 in.

• Heavy/bulky
• Low peak height in bivy mode

Have you ever been in the backcountry and had to hike extra miles after a long day just to find a flat place to set up camp? Well, the Lawson Blue Ridge solves this common problem since it can be hung between trees or used on the ground like a large bivy. And while it does have a low peak height in bivy mode, the versatility is a huge plus in areas where your route alternates between thick forest and mountain ridges above treeline. The Blue Ridge is a little heavier and bulkier than some of our favorite backpacking hammocks, but the value is hard to beat since you’re getting two different shelter options for the price of one.

• Tentsile Connect 3.0

Unique 2-person tree tent for car camping

Price: $599 (complete setup)

Weight: 20 lb. 12.8 oz.

Weight Limit: 880 lb.

Dimensions: 156 x 156 x 36 in.

• Unique & fun shelter
• Lots of pockets
• Very expensive
• Set up is more difficult & time consuming than standard hammocks

If you’re wanting a truly unique camping experience, look no further than the Tentsile Connect 3.0 . The Connect is a tent that you hang like a hammock, which gives you a great vantage point for epic views and provides some really nice airflow to keep you cool on hot nights. You’ll need a large area and three well-positioned trees to string this baby up, so it can be a little more difficult to use. But once you’ve found the ideal spot, the ratchet strap system is easy to get the hang of. There are a lot of details that make the Connect super comfortable to spend time in, like a hanging tablet pouch for watching movies during rain and a divider with six pockets at the head to keep your space tidy. While the Tentsile is spendy, it’s worth the cost for the one-of-a-kind camping experience it provides.

What’s Most Important to You in a Hammock?

Purpose/use.

Using a hammock as your main shelter for backpacking when it’s warm out can feel like a real treat. Sometimes we even carry a lightweight, compact one as a luxury item for hanging out around camp. Hammocks also make a primo spot to read a book or nap in the backyard and when car camping. However you choose to hang, there’s probably a hammock designed for that particular purpose.

Best backpacking hammocks

Best ultralight hammocks for packing along as a luxury item

Best lounging hammocks for the frontcountry

• ENO DoubleNest

Hammocks can be pricey, especially when you factor in the added cost of straps and other accessories. We’ve found that more expensive backpacking hammocks tend to have higher-quality stitching, lower weight, and a smaller packed size. As with any piece of outdoor gear, how much you want to spend usually depends on how and how much you plan to use it, but there are solid options for a variety of budgets.

Best value hammocks

Best budget hammocks

Best high-end hammocks

W EIGHT & PACKABILITY

If you plan to use your hammock for backpacking, it’s best to get one that’s lightweight and compressible. Remember to also factor in the size and weight of any accessories that go with it, like a tarp and a bug net. On the flip side, if you actually want a burlier option that can stand up to a lot of use at your car camping family reunion, heavier might be better.

Best ultralight hammocks

Best lightweight hammocks

• Skeeter Beeter Pro
• Sea to Summit Pro Hammock

Best heavy-duty hammocks

Hammocks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to look at the dimensions to make sure you’ll fit comfortably. It’s ideal to be able to lay diagonally in your hammock for the most ergonomic lounging, so pick one with an overall length that’s at least two feet longer than your height.

Best hammocks for people over 6 feet

Best two-person hammocks

• Hummingbird Double

SUSPENSION SYSTEM

There are many different ways to string up a hammock, and some of them are easier than others. Most models don’t come with straps, so you can mix and match suspension systems until you find what works best for you. If you’re not into revisiting your scout days and tying complex knots, go with a simple daisy chain and carabiner setup. If you want to build your own custom, ultralight kit , you’ll probably like whoopie slings and buckle suspension systems. Check out our Best Suspensions Systems section to see our favorites.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN A BACKPACKING HAMMOCK

• Asymmetrical design for a flat lay
• Single layer to save weight, because we’ll almost always use an underquilt instead of a sleeping pad in a hammock
• Ultralight and compact design
• We prefer to use  whoopie sling suspension
• Some sort of storage (like a shelf, pocket, or sling)

WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN A BACKYARD/CAMPING HAMMOCK

• Comfortable fabric
• Spacious, maybe even room for two
• Comes with carabiners on the ends
• We prefer to use  daisy chain suspension

Hummingbird Singe

ENO Doublenest – (CleverHiker.com)

Hennessy Hammock Ultralite Explorer Asym Zip – (Cleverhiker.com)

The Hummingbird Single (blue) & ENO Sub6 (red)

Warbonnet Blackbird & Wooki Underquilt – (CleverHiker.com)

Best Suspension Systems

Whoopie slings.

Whoopie slings are an adjustable, lightweight way to hang a hammock, and they’re what we typically use for backpacking. Designs for whoopie slings have slight differences, but in general they use a simple loop and knot system that holds tension with weight, but can be easily adjusted when not under pressure. There are many different whoopie sling options on the market, but here are a few of our favorites:

• Hummingbird Tree Straps – lightest weight & most affordable
• Dutchware Whoopie Hook – highly customizable
• ENO Helios – easiest to use

DAISY CHAIN STRAPS

Daisy chain straps are about as simple and convenient as it gets. They’re made up of two strong straps with many small loops at the end. Just wrap each strap around a tree and clip your hammock in on each side. Daisy chain straps aren’t as lightweight, compact, or adjustable as whoopie slings, but they’re a little quicker and easier to set up. This is why they’re the best type of suspension for hammocking in the backyard or for car camping, Here are a couple of our favorites:

• ENO Atlas – readily available in most gear shops
• ENO AtlasXL – longer
• Grand Trunk Tree Straps – comes in fun color choices

BUCKLE SUSPENSION

Buckle suspension isn’t as common as daisy chain straps or whoopie slings, but they’re great because they’re ultralight and easy to use. Buckle suspension can be a little quicker to set up and take down than whoopie slings, but really the choice between the two will come down to your personal preference. Here are a couple of our favorite buckle suspension systems:

• Dutchware Beetle Buckles – highly customizable
• Warbonnet Buckle Suspension – most affordable

Best Underquilts

Most hammocks don’t easily accommodate sleeping pads to insulate you from cold air flowing under you. An underquilt is like a down blanket that attaches to the underside of your hammock to insulate you, and it’s an important part of your hammocking kit if you plan to do any backpacking with it. There are a ton of options available, and you can get custom quilts made to your specifications. These are a few of our favorites to get you started:

• Enlightened Equipment Revolt V2 – High-quality ultralight quilt that can be customized. It’s a little pricey, but the warmth-to-weight ratio and coverage is hard to beat.
• Warbonnet Wooki & Wooki XL – Made for Warbonnet hammocks, but can also fit other similarly sized hammocks. We like that the full length design helps keep the underquilt in place, and that the diagonally placed insulation saves weight.
• Western Mountaineering Slinglite – Super lightweight and packable. We like that this underquilt is ready-made and therefore doesn’t require any waiting on a long lead time if you need it right away.

Best Hammock Tarps

For backpacking, you’ll want to pick up a good tarp to shelter you from wind and rain. Make sure the tarp you get is long enough to cover your entire hammock, and it’s always a good idea to set it up at home first to ensure it works for you. These are our favorite hammock tarps:

• Sea to Summit Hammock Tarp – A little spendy, but it’s one of the lightest and most packable tarps out there. It’s also very easy to set up since it doesn’t require any knots and only uses three stakes .
• ENO ProFly – Excellent value tarp with good coverage. The ProFly is very versatile, because the shape allows it to be used without a hammock to create a symmetrical sheltered area that can accommodate a few people.
• Warbonnet Superfly – Custom all-weather tarp that provides maximum protection during wet and chilly weather.

ENO Skyloft – (CleverHiker.com)

The Hummingbird Single – (CleverHiker.com)

Sea to Summit Hammock Tarp – (CleverHiker.com)

Warbonnet Wooki – (CleverHiker.com)

Eno Doublenest – (CleverHiker.com)

Critical Hammock Considerations

Some hammock suspension systems will require you to know a few basic knots to achieve a safe setup. Make sure you practice any knots you’ll need for stringing up your hammock or for performing field repairs before you head out into the backcountry.

CHOOSING A HANGOUT SPOT

Finding the perfect set of trees for your hammock may take some trial and error, but you’ll quickly get the hang of recognizing great spots the more you use it. In general: always attach to live, sturdy trees that are at least six inches in diameter, and look above you for any dead branches or other hazards that may fall on your hammock. Set your hammock up at least 200 feet from trails and water sources to respect fellow hikers and wildlife. And lastly, don’t hang it higher than you’d want to fall. In areas where good hangin’ trees are sparse, you can use a hammock stand .

THE FLAT LAY

When you set up your hammock, look for the straps to be at about a 30° angle to the ground. This should leave your hammock with a nice curve in it. When you get in, position your body at an angle with your legs to one side and your shoulders to the opposite side. This will flatten the material under your back and eliminate any pressure points on your body. If you feel pressure points, you may have set your hammock up too taut.

LEAVE NO TRACE

Ropes and cords can damage trees, so you should always use a tree hugger strap with your suspension system (if it’s not already included as part of the design) to disperse the pressure put on the bark. Some parks and wilderness areas don’t allow hammocking at all, so make sure you check all local guidelines before you go.

Honorable Mentions

This might just be the hammock of your dreams:

The Roo and Roo Double are basic, comfy hammocks for lounging in the backyard or car camping. Ultimately we like the ENO Doublenest and Singlenest better for the small weight & space saving and the wider range of color options.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

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The 8 best neck pillows for travel.

Avoid a literal pain in the neck with these expert-approved travel pillows.

The Best Neck Pillows for Travel

Courtesy of Cabeau

The Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow is one of the best neck pillows for travel.

Just like the pillow you use at home , the best neck pillow for travel is the one that makes you feel most comfortable, allowing you to relax, rest and ultimately fall asleep on the go. The difference, however, is that a travel pillow is typically used when sitting up, which means it needs to provide enough support to keep your head from bobbing.

Based on recommendations from travel experts and advice from physicians, these are the best neck pillows for travel.

Best Overall: Cabeau Evolution S3

Best affordable: mvloc travel pillow, best for long flights: trtl travel pillow, best multipurpose: huzi infinity pillow, best inflatable: sunany inflatable travel pillow, best silk: slip jet setter travel pillow, best for backpacking: marchway ultralight inflatable camping pillow, best for kids: bcozzy double support neck pillow.

Frequent travelers praise the design of the Cabeau Evolution S3, which is made of a special dual-density memory foam. "My pillow at home is made with memory foam so it's like bringing a piece of home on my travels," says travel blogger Jasmine Cheng of The Wandering Girl . "The sides are also raised, which prevents my head from moving when I'm sleeping." Travelers also appreciate the patented seat strap system that attaches the pillow to a seat or chair headrest as well as the slim flattened back, both of which prevent the head from bobbing.

A handy storage pouch on the side of the pillow allows you to keep your earbuds or other small items close by, and the pillow comes with a clasp that attaches to carry-on luggage . The removable pillow cover, which comes in a variety of colors, is machine-washable. What's more, this travel pillow can be stored in an included carry bag that condenses it to half its size.

Price: $39.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Cabeau

Travelers appreciate the support (and the price tag) of this memory foam travel pillow. An adjustable rope lock allows you to secure the pillow to your neck for maximum support and comfort. The breathable and machine-washable cloth exterior prevents overheating. This travel pillow also comes with earplugs and an eye mask for ultimate relaxation.

Price: $29.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Trtl

The patented design of the Trtl Travel Pillow – with a hidden internal neck support surrounded by soft, hypoallergenic fleece – makes it a favorite among travelers, particularly for long flights. "Something about it just hits right in a travel accessory category where nothing previously worked for me," explains Meaghan Clawsie, luxury travel advisor at Elated Escapes . "I no longer have any back or neck pain when resting on long-haul flights." Simply wrap the pillow around your neck like a scarf, secure it in place with its built-in fastener and rest your head on the support.

If you tend to overheat easily, there's also the Trtl Pillow Cool , made with Tencel fibers to keep you at a comfortable temperature; a mesh panel makes the pillow particularly breathable as well. Both pillows are machine-washable.

Price: $59.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Trtl

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Courtesy of Huzi Design

If you're not sold on the classic U-shaped neck pillows for travel, consider this snake-like option instead. Able to be twisted into a variety of positions, the versatile Huzi Infinity Pillow provides whatever support feels best – even if that means resting your head on the tray table for a bit. You can also wear it around your neck like a scarf for neck and back comfort (even when you're not snoozing), use it as an eye mask, or drape it over your head if you get cold or want to block out noise.

Travelers love the pillow's bamboo fabric, describing it as soft, smooth and cool. Since it's filled with polyester, the whole pillow can be tossed in the washing machine , unlike its memory foam counterparts. The Infinity Pillow is available in nearly a dozen different colors, including gray, navy and pink.

Price: $45 or less Shop now: Amazon | Infinity Pillow

Read:  What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Courtesy of Sunany

Travelers love the H-shaped design of this inflatable pillow because it allows for use in multiple directions and supports both sides of the head and neck with a flat back. A removable hood on the pillow is a bonus: It encourages a cozy feel and prevents cold drafts from too much air conditioning. For optimal comfort, it is recommended to inflate the pillow about 80% to 90%.

A pocket for your earbud case on this travel pillow provides convenient access for listening to music, and the removable velour cover is machine-washable. The lightweight inflatable pillow can be stored in the included waterproof drawstring bag, which can also be attached to luggage. This travel neck pillow is available in black, gray and blue.

Courtesy of Slip

Travel pillows don't get softer than this luxurious new option by Slip. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is made with the highest-grade long fiber mulberry silk, which helps to prevent skin creases and bedhead. It also comes with a carrying case with handles. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is available in three prints and a pretty solid blush color.

Price: $99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Slip

While you can often bring your pillow from home for tent camping, backpacking requires something more lightweight, such as this inflatable option by Marchway. "An inflatable pillow is a game-changer when it comes to backpacking, and an ultralight pillow can't be beat," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "The Marchway pillow fits the bill: It's comfortable, packable and extremely lightweight." This pillow is designed for both back and side sleepers, and doubles as a lumbar support for everyday travels and needs. Once it's deflated, you can machine-wash the cover before folding the pillow into an included drawstring bag.

Price: $13.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of BCOZZY

The BCOZZY neck pillow is ideal for all travelers – including kids, with small sizes for youngsters between 3 and 7 years old, and medium options for ages 8 and 12. Travelers like the ergonomic design of the patented pillow, which supports the head and neck by propping the chin up. Overlapping pillow arms, which wrap around the neck and under the chin, can be tightened based on the level of support you need.

If you or your child is a side sleeper, fold the pillow in half, double up the sides and place it on your shoulder, leaning your head to the side. An elevated side option allows you to overlap the pillow arms on top of each other and rotate it 90 degrees to the side for double support for the neck and chin.

This travel pillow is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including light blue and pink hearts. A snap strap attaches the included travel bag to your child's luggage , and you can throw the pillow in the washing machine after your trip.

Price: $44.97 or less Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

Experts agree a supportive pillow is essential for travel. "The biggest issue many travelers experience when sleeping on a plane is that the seats don't recline enough," explains Dr. Alex Dimitriu, a sleep/wake and performance specialist who is dual board certified in psychiatry and sleep medicine. "This often results in the head being just on the brink of tipping forward – which is not a comfortable sleeping position. Because of this insufficient recline, it is important to keep padding behind the head and neck minimal to reduce the tendency for the head to tip forward."

Most travel pillows are designed to be worn around the neck, providing enough support to prevent the head from tipping forward.

When shopping for a neck pillow for travel, experts recommend considering the following factors:

Proper head support:  What's most important is ensuring your head is supported in the right places by your travel pillow – and, in particular, not being pushed forward by excessive padding. "A good pillow would provide support for side sleeping, rather than a lot of padding behind the head, which just pushes the head forward too much," says Dimitriu.

Material: Consider both the external and internal material of the pillow:

External: Chiropractic physician Eric Smith advises to make sure the material of your travel pillow is breathable and won't subject you to an overheated sleep, since one of the main reasons for moving around a lot as you sleep is getting too hot. "When your face gets too hot on one side, even if you're sleeping, you're going to move from it because it's too warm," Smith explains.

There's no real consensus on which material is best for a cool, comfy sleep – and different people will have different preferences – so Smith's advice is to try before you fly (and don't hesitate to request a refund if your chosen pillow isn't working out).

• Internal: Memory foam pillows tend to offer more firm support – something Smith recommends for anyone, but especially older travelers. "The majority of patients I have that get older, we actually need a more firm pillow, we need a more firm bed, we need more support," Smith says. Pillows filled with microbeads mold more to the neck and head, while inflatable pillows can be adjusted to your preferences based on how much air you use to blow them up.

A travel pillow for your neck isn't considered a carry-on or personal item (and the same generally goes for small, loose items like jackets and umbrellas). That said, it's always best to review your airline's carry-on luggage size restrictions before traveling.

A good neck pillow for travel isn't the only key to achieving a decent sleep while in transit. "From the standpoint of evolution, we're kind of hardwired to be a little bit more on high alert in those situations," explains Rebecca Robbins, an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and scientist at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. "We're a little bit more in fight or flight mode; our brain is subconsciously scanning the environment for threats and there are new sounds and new smells."

She recommends finding elements that are relaxing to you, which might include some of the following:

• Travel blanket: Look for something lightweight, such as the EverSnug Travel Blanket on Amazon. This blanket comes with a carrying case, which can double as a pillow when the blanket is stored inside.
• Essential or aromatherapy oils: Scents like lavender and peppermint can be especially calming.
• Earplugs: Choose headphones that block some or all external noise. The Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Headphones are especially well rated.
• White noise app: There are a variety of free apps, or you can try a paid option like Calm (which offers a free trial).
• Eye mask: An eye mask like this cotton option on Amazon helps to block out the bright light on planes.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Compression Socks for Travel
• The Top Walking Shoes for Travel
• The Top Carry-on Backpacks
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• The Best Travel Medical Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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Advertisement

The Best Packable Daypack for Travel

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Packable daypacks are a perfect option if you need a lightweight spare bag to stash inside your luggage when you travel. They’re also great if you need an extra bag while running an unexpected errand during your daily commute.

After testing 18 packable daypacks, we chose four lightweight, portable, well-constructed bags to fit a variety of situations, including traveling, hiking, and commuting.

Although every trip has its specific considerations, the bags we recommend share a few similar qualities. All of them are water resistant to some degree, pack down small enough to fit easily into a carry-on bag, and hold at least 20 liters comfortably. We picked a bag for city travelers , a pack good enough for daily use , and a lightweight bag that stays dry in stormy weather . For space-conscious travelers, we have a pick that fits in the palm of your hand .

The research

Why you should trust us, compact and comfortable: away the packable backpack, more structure: waterfield packable backpack, a lightweight bag to carry in the rain: matador freerain22 waterproof packable backpack, a pack that fits in your palm: sea to summit ultra-sil day pack, how we picked and tested, other good packable bags, the competition, what to look forward to.

I’ve covered travel luggage and bag design for Wirecutter for nine years and have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time.

For this guide, I built on previous years of experience and research by a writer and two editors who have, among them, worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica.

We developed our earliest criteria for this piece after doing an interview with Sara Morrow, an archaeologist who spends summers working expeditions on a small island off the coast of Ireland. She uses a packable daypack to transport her tools, notebooks, and personal items between the base camp and dig sites, and she considers it a necessity in the field.

Personally, I try to pack lightly and almost always travel with at least one packable bag to use on small day journeys once I’ve reached my destination.

Away The Packable Backpack

Compact and comfortable.

Remarkably light and easy to compress, this bag ticks all the boxes for daily use while traveling: comfortable, quietly stylish, and sturdy.

Buying Options

Who this is for: It’s a good option for anyone who wants a packable bag that takes up as much space as a pair of socks but is still comfortable. Its casual look is also unlikely to draw attention when you’re walking around.

Away’s The Packable Backpack is made of a blend of light recycled nylon, with classic, if somewhat minimal, good looks.

It doesn’t weigh much, and it’s comfortable to wear. On your shoulders, the only thing that sets this bag apart from a regular backpack is the lack of structure, a side effect of the bag’s 7-ounce weight. It doesn’t have the same reassuring heft of a traditional backpack (no packable bag does), but when it’s filled with a few odds and ends, its wide straps and sensible shape are comfortable to carry on your back. To save on weight, Away designed the top of the bag like a cinch tote with a flip cover—a simple and effective solution.

It packs up small. When not in use, it rolls up and fits into a separate zippered pouch; it’s about the size of a bunched-up heavy T-shirt.

It’s well made and well priced. For a bag of this quality, it’s an excellent bargain. Away uses the same materials in similarly designed packable tote and sling bags, which we recommend if you’re looking for packable options that aren’t backpacks.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

A minor quibble is the lack of internal organization beyond the one small, zippered wallet pocket. If you need more organization, the WaterField Packable Backpack has another front pocket and bottle holders. But it’s such a small complaint for bags in this category that it’s hard to call it a flaw.

• Expanded dimensions: 18.1 by 11 by 5.9 inches (height by width by depth)
• Packed dimensions: 7 by 4.5 by 2.5 inches
• Weight: 7 ounces
• Capacity: 19 liters
• Warranty: 100-day return and one-year warranty

WaterField Packable Backpack

A more structured pack.

Slightly heavier weight and more-advanced materials give this backpack a reassuring heft and impressive water resistance—and a high price tag. It’s comfortable enough to use as your daily backpack.

Who this is for: Anyone who values a slightly mature look with extra durability and protection from the rain will appreciate this pack. However, it is our most expensive pick.

The WaterField Packable Backpack is a well-built travel backpack that marries the heft of a regular backpack with the compactness of an easy-to-pack tote.

It looks and feels like a regular backpack. In addition to being the most traditional-looking backpack of our picks, it feels the most like a traditional backpack. The shoulder straps, which are ergonomically shaped and lined with breathable mesh fabric, make the bag easier to carry over long distances.

It has more organization. WaterField’s Packable Backpack has a front zippered pocket and two open side pockets that could hold a water bottle and an umbrella. When you’re not using the bag, you can fold it down into a built-in packing pocket, which doubles as an interior zippered pocket when the bag is on your back.

Its high performance matches its high price. However, it’s WaterField’s attention to materials that sets this bag apart from our other picks (and increases the overall price). A layer of Taslan nylon—a very thin, but sturdy, fabric—is layered with a structural tricot mesh and a robust water-resistant coating. Water practically bounced away from this bag during testing—even more so than with our pick from Matador —so it’s a good option for wet climates.

• The Waterfield Packable Backpack weighs about 12 ounces; it’s heavier than our other picks but not by much. The bag holds 16 liters of stuff, which is on the smaller side compared with our other picks but still plenty big for a single traveler on a walk. It doesn’t pack down as small as our other picks.
• It’s a little tricky to pack into its self-contained pocket. It’s not as simple as just inverting it and stuffing away to your heart’s content. You have to do a series of particular folds to pack the bag properly, which WaterField shared in a video . There’s a fine line between portability and irritability, and this bag cuts that line very close.
• Expanded dimensions: 15 by 11 by 6 inches (height by width by depth)
• Packed dimensions: 9 by 9 by 3 inches
• Weight: 12 ounces
• Capacity: 16 liters
• Warranty: “practical lifetime” repair or replacement

Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack

A lightweight bag to carry in the rain.

This bag will keep your things dry during adventures in wet climates or unpredictable weather. It packs down to about the size of a potato, but its lack of overall structure isn’t ideal for long hikes or days of carrying.

Who this is for: If you need a spare lightweight bag that can stand up to the elements while taking up very little space, the Freerain22 backpack is for you.

The Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack is excellent in wet climates or anywhere where you might realistically expect to get caught in the rain—think hiking around Seattle or touring London in the fall.

It’s mini but mighty. The Freerain22 backpack folds down so small—to about the size of a pocket camera—that it feels like a magic trick. Made from 30-denier abrasion-resistant Cordura nylon (denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric), it kept our things dry even in a rainstorm, although a small amount of humidity and moisture did get in on occasion while we were hiking around Hawaii. The main compartment opens and closes with a roll top that buckles down on the sides like a dry bag. It’s the best possible design if you’re serious about keeping out water.

It’s versatile—to a point. During our testing, it worked well for travel and on the trail, as long as we didn’t try to carry too much, too far. This pack’s mesh shoulder straps, though very breathable and wide enough to distribute the weight, are like two pieces of hosiery: barely there. And though they are wide enough to resist pinching, a thin strip of fabric can only do so much to protect your clavicles. In addition to using this pack for travel and hikes, we also liked to throw the Freerain22 pack into a jacket pocket in case it rained during commutes around town.

It has some nice extras. Along with a sternum strap, removable hip strap, and loops to hold trekking poles or ice axes, it has two side pockets for water bottles, with side buckles for securing the containers in place, and a zippered front pocket. Other than that, it doesn’t have much organization. But that’s not why you buy a bag like this. The Freerain22 backpack is best as a just-in-case bag. It’s so small that you can bring it with you everywhere, and when you need it, you’ll be glad you have it.

• The compromises that are necessary to shrink a bag this small also become its flaws. The shoulder straps are so thin and insubstantial that it’s impossible for the Freerain22 backpack to be comfortable over long distances, especially when you’re carrying more than 10 pounds.
• Some of our testers also found that the shoulder straps, though adjustable, were so long that they couldn’t get the straps short enough to fit their shoulders and frame.
• It’s not as structured as our other picks—it feels more like a reusable shopping bag on your back. If you want a stiffer, more traditional backpack feel, consider the WaterField Packable Backpack .
• Expanded dimensions: 19.5 by 11 by 9.5 inches (height by width by depth)
• Packed dimensions: 5 by 3 inches (length by diameter)
• Weight: 6.6 ounces
• Capacity: 22 liters
• Warranty: one-year repair or replacement

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack

A pack that fits in your palm.

Toss this lightweight, phone-size packable bag into your luggage or coat pocket, and you’ll never get caught without a spare bag again. If you need something to carry more often, though, you might prefer one of our more structured picks.

Who this is for: It’s fantastic for anyone who needs a light, spare bag that they can take with them anywhere, anytime.

The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack is perfect to keep in your pocket or in the glove compartment of your car—it’s handy for when, say, you need a spare bag at the market.

It’s our most packable pick. The Ultra-Sil pack is the smallest and lightest packable backpack we recommend. Packed up, it’s very discreet: nearly the size of a keychain accessory.

It’s tougher than it looks. The bag itself is a no-frills sack made from a paper-thin siliconized Cordura nylon, which means it’s very light and water resistant. It has reinforced stitching at stress points, so it can carry more weight than you would expect. That said, since this pack is made of such thin, light material, carrying large or awkwardly shaped loads is somewhat uncomfortable, especially when compared with our more-structured picks.

• With a bag this small and light, any flaw is an aspect of its narrowly engineered use. Are the shoulder straps thin? Of course! Would it be nice if this bag—which deploys from a small sack that fits in the palm of your hand—had more back padding? Yes. But that would also make it larger and heavier. If you’re not willing to trade some comfort to get the smallest possible carry, this isn’t the bag for you.
• The bag also won’t keep your things dry in the rain like some of our other picks, such as the Waterfield Packable Backpack or the Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack .
• Expanded dimensions: 19 by 11 by 8 inches (height by width by depth)
• Packed dimensions: 3.5 by 2 by 1.5 inches
• Weight: 2.5 ounces
• Capacity: 20 liters
• Warranty: lifetime repair or replacement

Depending on whether you plan to scale cliffs or tour museums , certain features become more or less important when you’re choosing a day bag.

To help make sense of what to prioritize among the dozens of available options, we pored over articles across many outdoor publications and consulted other comparative reviews and advice from sources such as REI and GearLab .

We also considered our own experiences to determine what makes a great packable daypack. Here’s what we look for:

• Weight and size: The whole point of a packable daypack is that it packs well, so weight and compressed size are important factors. Carrying capacity generally correlates to the weight and size of a bag, except in more explicitly technical packs, which may cut down on weight by using lighter, but more expensive, materials.
• Ergonomic features: Stowable daypacks can look and feel like stuff sacks with straps, or they can be full, ergonomically shaped backpacks. The wearability of a bag usually comes down to its load distribution and support system (such as the sternum strap on the Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack ).
• Organization: Most packable daypacks come with at least two compartments—the largest, or main, compartment and the (often attached) pouch into which the whole pack stows away. Beyond those, an external pocket that can hold small, frequent-use items (such as keys) or sleeves for water bottles are useful. The drawback of adding more organization is that it decreases the packability of a bag and often contributes to weight.
• High-quality materials: Because a packable daypack needs to be able to carry at least some weight when in use but still fold up for storage, materials make the difference between a lightweight pack that feels cheap and flimsy versus one that you feel confident filling to the max and carrying into a rainstorm. The fabrics and composite materials used in higher-quality bags are light and durable but remain nearly invulnerable to water.
• 15- to 25-liter capacity: This seems to be the ideal range for a pack that can hold a full day’s worth of stuff while remaining reasonably lightweight and portable. It’s enough to accommodate a 13-inch laptop, along with some rain protection, a camera, an extra layer of clothing, and whatever else you might need for a day about town.
• Weather resistance and durability: Although a few bags we liked, such as the Matador Freerain22 pack and the WaterField Packable Backpack , come extremely close, total waterproofing is a lot to ask of any lightweight bag. At a minimum, a pack should provide enough protection to keep you and your gear dry through at least a few minutes of wet weather. The better packs often feature more-careful construction, which is visible in details such as sealed and tighter stitching (our pick from Matador), self-sealing YKK zippers (our pick from Away), and reinforced bottoms (our pick from WaterField).

If you’re planning some heavy excursions and looking for the absolute best equipment: You might consider the Hyperlite Summit 30 . It’s a remarkable piece of equipment, a full-size 30-liter backpack weighing only 0.8 pounds. Made of Dyneema composite fabric, Hyperlite backpacks are highly water resistant and long-lasting. And each one folds up to take the same space as a couple of T-shirts. Most people looking for a spare travel bag don’t need a $200 ultralight backpack designed for hiking. But for a rare type of traveler, the Summit 30 might be the best choice.

If you need a heavy-duty bag for hiking: The Matador Beast28 Ultralight Technical Backpack is a capable hiking daypack that’s hydration-bladder compatible, but not everyone needs a packable bag this hefty. Alone, it’s 1.25 pounds, which is heavier than any of our picks. For the price, we prefer the simplicity of our other picks. But the Beast28 is a good bag, albeit with a large footprint even when it’s packed up.

If none of our picks are available: Consider the REI Co-op Flash 18 Pack , another decent choice in the sub-$50 cinch-top-bag category. It’s a fine alternative, but for a little more money you get a lot more value with our other choices.

Aer Go Pack 2 : The previous version was a pick, but the current model is too bulky to be packable; it takes up more space in your suitcase than would ever be worth it on a trip.

Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Backpack : This is a decent small backpack, but the drawstring closure top kept this out of consideration. Not only are drawstrings a hazard if they slip out, but they are prone to breaking, and the cinch closure is useless against bad weather.

Dakine Packable Backpack 22L : These are tempting bags, especially for the price. But the fabric (115-denier recycled nylon) feels thin and underwhelming—although it’s Bluesign approved, which we like. The problem is the bag’s closure, which only has a cinch top. If Dakine added a lid that could close over the design similar to Away’s The Packable Backpack , we’d likely make it a pick.

Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L Backpack : This bag was previously our runner-up pick for hikers. Its zipper and material felt flimsy enough that we were concerned they would fail with long-term use.

Fjällräven High Coast Foldsack 24 : This is a good bag at a slightly high price, but it didn’t make the cut for us because of its weight and large size even when rolled up.

Gonex 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack : Although it has rave reviews online , we found the stitching was more fragile than we like to recommend.

L.L.Bean Stowaway Pack : The Stowaway Pack was organized and comfortable enough that we liked carrying it on the hiking trail, but we preferred our pick from Matador for its better weatherproofing.

Mystery Ranch In and Out 19 : The In and Out 19 is made of a 100-denier Cordura nylon, which was strong but too heavy for us. The biggest mystery during our testing was how to fold this bag back into its pouch.

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack 27L : This is simply a bad design for a tourist. The tote’s large handles, which hang loosely off the back of the bag when it’s worn as a backpack, are a huge red flag for personal safety and security. And all the extra straps and connections make carrying and using the bag a pain.

REI Co-op Stuff Travel Pack - 20L : This is a competitor of the Matador Freerain22 pack that falls short. It mimics our Matador pick in its design, but not in the quality of its materials. Its flimsier fabric and zipper will fail sooner.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

We’re testing a new packable daypack from Tortuga; we plan to report back with our findings soon.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

by Kit Dillon

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

Essential Gear for Traveling Solo

by Ria Misra

Traveling solo is freeing but poses some unique challenges. Wirecutter’s picks help you travel comfortably and securely—and bring home great pictures too.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

20 BEST Hostels in Moscow (2024 • Insider Guide!)

Far and away Russia’s largest city, the capital city of Moscow is a backpacker’s dream. By European standards it’s affordable, and by city standards it still feels super exotic.

But there are a ton of hostels in Moscow. Over 110 to be specific, and knowing which hostel to pick can be quite a task. Which is the exact reason we put together this list of the best hostels in Moscow.

We’ve organized this list of the best hostels in Moscow by different travel needs. So whether you wanna party or chill, hook up or wind down, with the help of this guide, you’ll be able to book the hostel that gets you where you wanna be!

Let’s take a look at the 20 best hostels in Moscow…

The 20 Best Youth Hostels in Moscow

What to pack for your moscow hostel, why you should travel to moscow, faq about hostels in moscow, more epic hostels in russia.

Moscow Style | Overall Best Youth Hostel in Moscow

The overall best hostel in Moscow is Moscow Style and you’re about to find out why. Not only does Moscow Style offer guests all the basics like free bed linen and free WiFi but have a late check-out, free breakfast and a guest kitchen too. Team this with kick-ass customer service, super comfy dorm rooms and the fact that it’s located in the heart of the city, you’ll easily see why Moscow Style is the best hostel in Moscow in 2021. To top it off, must-visit landmarks like the Kremlin and Red Square are just a five-minute walk away.

Comrade Hostel

Comrade Hostel is the joint best hostel in Moscow in 2021. Comrade Hostel is a highly recommended hostel in Moscow so if you wanna stay here you’ve gotta book your bed ASAP, especially if you and your travel buddies wanna stay in the same dorm room. Comrade Hostel is in Moscow’s old town known locally as Kitai-Gorod. The Comrade staff are always on hand to give you directions and useful tips on how to make the most of your every moment in Moscow.

Vagabond Hostel | Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Moscow

The best hostel for solo travellers in Moscow is the super popular Vagabond Hostel. For solo travellers early seeking a crew to explore the Russian capital city with your first port of call should be Vagabonds. Attracting a varied and interesting crowd Vagabond Hostel is the perfect Moscow backpackers hostel for solo travellers to hang out in. The free breakfast provides a cracking start to the day and you have the use of the guest kitchen too. Why not have a cook-off with your hostel mates?

Godzillas is a top hostel in Moscow and has been for years. For solo travellers keen to connect, Godzillas is a great start; tour operators often use Godzillas as their meeting hostel so there are always plenty wide-eyed and bushy-tailed travellers just like you around the place! The Godzillas team are super welcoming and always happy to help in any way that they can. If you’re a solo traveller keen to meet a wide of a range of people as possible, Godzillas is the place for you.

Chekhov House | Best Cheap Hostel in Moscow #1

The best cheap hostel in Moscow is Chekhov House, by far. Although at first glance the pink hues around Chekhov House may have you thinking it’s a women-only hostel, it is a place for everyone. The free breakfast, free WiFi and free luggage storage go a long way in making Chekhov House a great, cheap, youth hostel in Moscow. The Chekhov House team are keen to please and are always happy to help with directions. As a rookie in Russia, you may struggle to read local signage as they use a totally different alphabet!

Good News Hostel | Best Cheap Hostel in Moscow #2

The good news is that Good News Hostel is the best budget hostel in Moscow! Too cheesy?! Anyway, you’ll love Good News Hostel for its bright and spacious dorm rooms and wonderful communal areas. The outdoor deck is the ideal spot to hang out in on a sunny Russian summers day although if you’re heading to Moscow in the winter you need to bring your thermals. Super close to the Komsomolskaya metro station, you can easily connect to all of Moscow’s tourist hotspots from Good News Hostel.

Jazz House | Best Cheap Hostel in Moscow #3

Light and bright, Jazz House is a simple but ample budget youth hostel in Moscow. You’ll find very little to complain about here. The staff keep Jazz House in great shape and you’ll feel instantly at ease, once you’ve dumped your hefty backpack that is. The Kremlin is 3.5km away but the walk is a great way to experience real Moscow. If that feels like too much hop on the metro at Serpukhovskaya and you’ll be there in minutes. Once you’ve got your head around it the Moscow metro is pretty easy really.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

FriendHouse | Best Hostel for Couples in Moscow

The best hostels for couples in Moscow is FriendHouse. Simple? Yes. Ideal? Yes! With so much to see and do in Moscow , most travellers are looking for a cheap and cheerful place to crash and FriendHouse is perfect. They have reasonably priced private double rooms especially for couples like you. If you and your lover like meeting fellow backpackers all you need to do is head to FriendHouse’s monochrome yet cosy lounge of an evening and get introducing yourselves.

Star Wars Hostel

No, bear with me on this one! Believe it or not, another Star Wars Hostel is the best hostel in Moscow for couples who like a fancier style of accommodation. By name alone you’ll be thinking that it’s Star Wars through and through but, to its credit, Star Wars Hostel has only a subtle homage to the sci-fi series. The private rooms for a couple are cosy, even romantic and cottage like in their decor! Everyone who stays at Star Wars Hostel raves about it. Go on, give it a go!

Fasol Hostel & Bar | Best Party Hostel in Moscow

Fasol Hostel & Bar is, you’ve guessed it, the best party hostel in Moscow. This laid-back, charming and budget-friendly youth hostel is the perfect place to get your party on. To be fair, they don’t party crazy hard here as Moscow is hardly famed for its party scene but if you’re keen on a few beers, or a vodka or two, after a day of exploring Moscow Fasol is the place to stay. Overall, Fasol is a highly recommended hostel in Moscow, so whether you’re a party animal or not you’ll surely be drawn in by the on-point hostel vibes.

Safari Hostel

If Safari Hostel had its own bar it would easily be the best party hostel in Moscow, alas it’s nearly the best hostel in Moscow for a party. To be fair, Safari Hostel is a laugh a minute and all who stay here are game for a drink or two. Good job you can BYOB! The huge guest kitchen and dining room is the perfect place to get the beers following before you hit the town. The Safari team will be more than happy to recommend which pubs you hit up and when!

Hostel Derevo | Best Hostels for Digital Nomads in Moscow

Hostel Derevo is the best hostel for digital nomads in Moscow for sure! Not only do they have free and unlimited super-fast WiFi but modern spaces to work in. Derevo is the coolest hostel in Moscow for digital nomads and there is something to be said for feeling more productive when working in an inspiring environment. Derevo is, in fact, a co-working hostel, the whole place has been designed for digital nomads like you. Snap up your spot ASAP, they’re about to get even more popular in the rise of the digital nomads in 2021.

Netizen Hostel

Netizen is an ideal Moscow backpackers hostel for digital nomads, their bar and cafe is a great place to work from. The Netizen team have created an open and welcoming vibe here but there is a calmness and quietness about the place too. Netizen is a super clean hostel and the room service team work around the clock to keep the hostel in immaculate order. As a highly recommended hostel in Moscow Netizen is great for digital nomads looking for a home from home and an office all rolled into one.

Grant’s Hostel | Best Hostel with a Private Room in Moscow

Grant’s Hostel is a top hostel in Moscow if you’re departing by flight as they offer a free airport transfer. So no need to stress about finding a Moscow hostel near the airport. You don’t wanna focus on leaving before you’ve arrived though! You have Grant’s Hostels super spacious dorm rooms and cosy cafe to look forward to; as well as the team’s wonderful hospitality. Grant’s Hostel is a great shout for couples, they have four private double rooms just waiting to be snapped up! Get booking!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

More of the Best Youth Hostels in Moscow

Sputnik hostel.

Sputnik is the coolest youth hostel in Moscow but also one of the only boutique options available in the city. If you’re more of a flashpacker than a shoestring slumming-it kinda traveller you’ll feel right at home in the modern yet rustic dorms of Sputnik. If you have an eye for design you’ll love Sputniks minimalist style. Flashpackers you’ll be pleased to hear Sputnik’s is on the same street as Prada and all the posh restaurants. Main Moscow attractions like the Kremlin are just a 10-minute walk away.

3 Penguins Hostel

3 Penguins is a super cute Moscow backpackers hostel with reasonably priced dorm rooms and a homely feel. 3 Penguins have been impressing their guests time and time again and as such has become a highly recommended hostel in Moscow. There’s a kind of grandeur about the private rooms at the 3 Penguins that couples will surely kind romantic if a bit OTT. The staff are super helpful and will always give you a hand when they can.

Captial Hostel

Captial Hostel is a clean and homely Moscow backpackers youth hostel, located in the heart of the city. A far cry from a party hostel, Captial is ideal for travellers who like to stick to business when they’re on the road; for those who like to get a quiet and calm night’s sleep ready to hit up all the city sights in the morning. Captial Hostel has private dorm rooms and is therefore ideal for groups of mates who are travelling together and need a bit of space away from random dorm mates. It’s ok, we all feel like it sometimes!

Blagovest Hostel

Blagovest is a top hostel in Moscow, especially if you’re travelling with your crew. They have both open and private dorms available. The private dorms can sleep up to five people and is a great way of pooling the costs of travel. Blagovest Hostel comes highly recommended by all who visit, in part due to their great location but mostly because of their lovely staff. It should also be mentioned that Blagovest has dead comfy orthopaedic mattresses on all their beds. You’ll sleep like a baby!

Kremlin Lights

If you’re having a quick turnaround in Moscow and need to hit up all the sights and landmarks super quickly and easily you need to book a bed at Kremlin Lights. They’re located just 190m from the Kremlin, no other Moscow backpackers hostel is closer. Kremlin Lights is a bright and welcoming hostel that is super clean and as we’ve established, perfectly located. By being in the heart of Moscow the surrounding food outlets can be a little pricey so be sure to cook for yourself in the Kremlin Lights kitchen to save some money.

Jedi Hostel

Sci-Fi haters don’t dismiss Jedi Hostel on the name alone. Although there’s a subtle theme Jedi Hostel is a cracking youth hostel in Moscow, regardless of your feelings towards the films! Jedi Hostel is a funky and bright hostel located in the heart of Moscow. From here you can easily access all the tourist hotspots, great bars and some cool restaurants too. Each dorm bed is in capsule style for a little added privacy. Jedi is a super friendly hostel and you’ll defiantly find yourself tempted to extend your stay!

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out our definitive  Hostel Packing list  for our top packing tips!

Moscow is an unforgettable experience, so be sure to book a hostel that sets yourself up for success. With the help of this guide, you’ll be able to pick a hostel that best suits your travel-style, your your time in Russia can be nothing short of awesome.

And, just in case you can’t pick from one of the best hostels in Moscow – go with Moscow Style. It’s location, price and stellar reviews means you’ll have a great time and can worry about one less thing on your Russia trip.

Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Moscow.

What are the best hostels in Moscow, Russia?

Here you go! Our top 3 of the best hostels in Moscow: Moscow Style Vagabond Hostel Chekhov House

What’s the best party hostel in Moscow?

Fasol Hostel & Bar is the perfect place to get your party on. They don’t go wild there, but it’s a sick laid-back hostel with a nice bar to chug a few drinks.

What’s the cheapest hostel in Moscow?

If you’re looking to save some money down in Moscow, book your stay at one of these hostels: Chekhov House Good News Hostel Jazz House

Where can I book a hostel for Moscow?

Most of our favorite hostels are found through Hostelworld. If you’re looking for an epic place to stay in Moscow, start your search there!

What are the best hostels in Moscow for couples?

FriendHouse is an ideal reasonably-priced hostel for couples in Moscow. It has a monochrome yet cosy lounge of an evening.

What are the best hostels in Moscow near the airport?

If you’re departing by flight, there is no need to stress about finding a Moscow hostel near the airport. Grant’s Hostel, our best hostel with private rooms in Moscow, offers a free airport transfer.

Travel Safety Tips for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Moscow.

Planning an epic trip all across Russia?

Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

For more cool hostel guides around Russia, check out:

• Best hostels in Saint Petersburg
• Best hostels in Kiev
• Best hostels in Warsaw
• Best hostels in Tbilisi
• Best hostels in Oslo

Over to you

By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Moscow has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!

If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!

• Check out the best places to stay in Moscow before you arrive.
• Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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