osprey hikelite tour 24 review

Osprey Hikelite Review (Is It The Ultimate Hiking Backpack?)

Specifications

The Hikelite is available in 3 sizes , a 32L , 26L , and a smaller 18L one. Apart from their sizes, there are two main differences between the two versions. The smaller Hikelite does not have a front ‘shove-it’ pocket or a second pair of compression straps. And the larger 32L has a front clip strap to keep things in place too.

In terms of everything else, both variants of the Hikelite are identical. They even come in the same amount of color variations for the 18L & 26L, which are 6 different designs ( the 32L only has green and red ) .

You might also think that there would be a big difference in their prices, but there actually isn’t. The price largely depends on the color you choose, and in some instances, the 26L backpacks are cheaper than the 18L ones. With that in mind, you really won’t have to give up any cool features if you opt for the smaller version. Now, let’s take a look at what exactly those cool features are!

Hikelite Is Very Lightweight

This is one of the main selling points of this backpack. Both versions of the Hikelite are incredibly lightweight , which is particularly important because after all, this is a hiking backpack. You really don’t need any excess weight on your shoulders when hiking, right?

One way Osprey managed to keep this backpack so lightweight is that they removed some features that we loved on the Daylite. The padded laptop sleeve, for example, is something you won’t find on the Hikelite . But, as you don’t normally take my laptop on hikes, it’s not a big issue.

AirSpeed Mesh Backpanel

The Osprey Hikelite series of backpacks is all about ventilation. This backpack features a ventilated mesh back panel , that allows for excellent airflow while you’re on the move.

This will be particularly beneficial in the warmer temperatures ; hiking (or even biking) on its own can get you sweaty enough without the added pressure of a backpack on your shoulders. (Although, sometimes when I get hot I even carry a portable fan !)

And, this particular feature is a definite improvement on the ventilation system of the smaller cousin: the Osprey Daylite . Although to be forgiving of the Daylite, it was not meant as a pure hiking pack.

Integrated Rain Cover

Osprey Hikelite 26 Hiking Backpack , Aloe Green

Raise your hands if you’ve ever used your backpack to shield yourself from the pouring rain (I’m raising mine!). Well, Osprey was thoughtful enough to include a rain cover with the Hikelite .

This is an excellent addition for all of us that don’t let a bit of water stop us from enjoying the outdoors. And, the rain cover is cleverly hidden in a pocket on the bottom of the backpack.

I really like that the rain cover has its own separate compartment for two reasons. One, you are less likely to forget to bring it along on a hike. And two, when you actually use it and then want to pack it away when you no longer need it, you don’t have to worry about the rest of your stuff getting wet. (Just don’t forget to dry it out when you get home! )

It is also removable, so if you want that extra space at the bottom, you can take it out too.

Compatible With Hydraulics Reservoir

You all know how important it is to stay hydrated during any outdoor activity (or, you should now). Well, it’s good news that both Hikelite backpacks are perfectly compatible the Osprey Hydraulics reservoir .

Additionally, both the smaller and the larger pack can fit almost any reservoir up to a 3L capacity. And they also feature an internal hydration sleeve .

Unfortunately, I also have some bad news.

The reservoir doesn’t come with this backpack (they rarely do), and if you want to use this feature, you’ll have to purchase it separately . I guess it’s a good way to allow people to keep their options open. And, in reality, most other hiking packs don’t come with hydration reservoirs either (including the Deuter, Osprey’s German competitor !). After all, some people prefer water bottles .

I also use this section of my packs for my laptop or electronics when commuting or traveling. So, a hiking pack like this might be great for sports, but it can also double as a daily pack too. It just lacks the specific organisation features of something like an Osprey Nebula .

Sternum Strep And Webbing Hipbelt

These features are found on almost every Osprey backpack, so it’s no surprise that we also find them on the Hikelite . And honestly, these features are one of the main reasons why I seem to own more Ospreys than I definitely need. But, before I discovered them, I always struggled with the straps of my backpack falling off because I have slim shoulders.

If you also suffer from fragile shoulders, you will love these features as much as I do. The sternum strap will ensure that the shoulders straps don’t budge an inch, and they definitely won’t be able to fall off.

They also come with an emergency whistle that you can blow, you know, in the case of an emergency.

The webbing hipbelt is removable and highly adjustable , so you can make it fit you perfectly. So, if you were ever worried about your backpack staying in place while you’re on the go, the Hikelite really is a great choice.

Compression Straps And Benefits Of The Larger Hikelite

The compression straps on the side actually perform a few different functions on the Hikelite . Obviously, their main purpose is to further secure the load of your backpack, but on the larger version of the backpack, they also keep the upper part of the front “shove-it” pocket in place .

Oh, and more thing about this particular pocket – it’s great for when you want to quickly stash a spare clothing item (or helmet), but don’t really want to be bothered by opening the main compartment of the backpack. Or, if it’s a wet jacket, you don’t want to put it next to the rest of your dry things! Smart, huh?

Back to the compression straps. On the Hikelite , these also double as a walking pole attachment point , which is another improvement on some older hiking backpacks Osprey made. You can see how that is supposed to work in the picture.

The larger version of this backpack (26L) has an additional set of compression straps, and they go over the side mesh pockets. These straps help keep the shove-it pocket in place, which is why they are not features on the smaller backpack.

PowerMesh Side Pockets

These pockets appear to be another improvement over the Daylite. Now, I actually read several reviews about the Daylite backpack where people complained about items just falling out of the side stretch pockets. With the Hikelite , they are positioned differently, which explains their better functionality.

The side mesh pockets are designed to hold water bottles , so that you can easily access them while you’re out and about. They can fit a 1L bottle at best (on each side), which is, in my opinion, perfectly suitable for one hiking trip. And, if you can actually fit 2 liters of water in the side pockets of your backpack, then you don’t really need the additional purchase of the Osprey water bladder.

Zippered Scratch-Free Pocket And Internal Key Attachment Clip

I might have mentioned already that I’m a fan of zippered pockets on all types of gear. And, particularly the ones that promise to keep my phone safe, which is exactly what the scratch-free pocket of the Hikelite is promising. It can also keep safe any other smaller items you would want to have more easily accessible; your sunglasses and wallet for example.

The key attachment clip is also in this front pocket, and I love it. The main reason why is because I have a tendency to put my keys in the same pocket as my phone, and I saw the error of my ways when I did that with a phone that didn’t have Gorilla Glass protection. Ouch!

With this attachment clip, your keys will stay in the upper part of the pocket; a safe distance from your (probably) expensive smartphone’s display.

Another smart feature from Osprey.

Should You Get The Osprey Hikelite?

If you go hiking often, then yes, definitely get the Hikelite . It has a ton of cool features that will make your hiking trips more enjoyable, such as the integrated rain cover and the compression straps that double as trekking pole attachments.

The innovative, ventilated back panel will also keep you very comfortable during your outdoor adventures, and ensure that your back stays as dry as a bone. Well, unless it’s a thousand and one degrees outside, but that’s not really the back panel’s fault. :>

Depending on the number of things you tend to bring along with you on your hikes, and your overall height, you get to choose between two different sizes of the Hikelite backpack. And, the best part is that there are not really that much differences between them; the larger backpack has a front shove-it pocket and an additional pair of compression straps, and that’s about it. The rest is just volume.

Osprey Hikelite 18L Unisex Hiking Backpack, Aloe Green

Ventilated AirSpeed Mesh backpanel with side vents maintain a comfortable fit and keep your back cool
Integrated raincover keeps your pack and gear dry in inclement weather. Hikelite 18 is compatible with all Hydraulics reservoirs

Osprey Hikelite 26L Unisex Hiking Backpack, Black

Integrated raincover keeps your pack and gear dry in inclement weather

On the other hand, if you are looking for a different Osprey backpack, perhaps more suitable for your day-to-day needs, I would suggest going for something more practical.

Check out my review of these anti-theft backpacks instead, as they are a better option for everyday use.

But, for all of you that loved the Osprey Hikelite , head over to Amazon to get an awesome deal on any one of the 6 different colors this backpack comes in.

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The Differences in the Top Osprey Daypacks — And How to Choose the Perfect Smaller Pack for Daily Use

I’m obsessed with lightweight travel and have been using Osprey packs and daypacks for years. I also think they’re very much worth recommending for school, hiking, cycling, outdoor sports, shopping, carrying laptops and gear for work, and more.

I’m now here with my tiny team of researchers and adventurers to help you decide which of the wide range of Osprey daypacks is right for which use — this based on our experience of them and absorbing every quality review out there (which we link to in this post).

Unfortunately, Osprey’s over-the-top creativity in naming, e.g., Daylite, Hikelite, Heritage, Apogee, Aphelia, Centauri, Arcane, and Transporter, don’t really help much in determining which daypack is for which whom. And the guidance that comes directly from Osprey is maze-like and repetitive without actually providing much concrete insight. (Hey kids, here’s an example of truly awful product copywriting: “Its lightweight [sic], simplicity, durability, comfortable carry and price has proven to be wildly popular, and today their popularity is undeniable.”)

Fortunately, Osprey’s actual bags are much more carefully thought out than their writing—and are expertly built and durable. So we’re here to give you the real low-down. We’ve picked the top Osprey daypacks (the bestselling and our favorites) and put them side by-side with mini-reviews of each option and explanations of whom it might be for .

What we don’t cover in this article are bags for extended travel. If you’re going on a trip, consider instead either the Osprey wheeled carry-on backpacks or the full-sized wheeled backpacks — both come with their own excellent detachable daypacks. And if you’re going on multi-day jaunts, check out our review of the full range of larger Osprey trekking and hiking backpacks .

Originally published March 11, 2019. Updated with more links, photos, and info on September 10, 2020. Fully updated on May 30, 2022. Fully updated with the Sportlite and Ultralight Stuff series on Aug 3, 2022. Updated to fix linking and for current availabilities on Mar. 7, 2023. Minor updates to the Farpoint Fairview on June 27, 2023.

FAQs on Osprey Daypacks

What is the best Osprey daypack?

This depends on what you’re using it for, silly, but our favorites are:

The best full-featured Osprey daypacks for daily city use: The Arcane series below
The best Osprey packs for general hiking and wilderness sports: The Sportlite series below
The best Osprey daypacks for a combination of hiking and daily city use: The Heritage series below
The best Osprey daypacks for basic travel and for clipping to other full-size Osprey packs: The Daylite series or the Farpoint Fairview below
The best Osprey daypacks for really rough/wet commutes and travel: The Transporter series below

What is the best Osprey daypack for use while travelling with other Osprey packs?

The Daylite series packs explained below are compatible with and can be clipped onto the major lines of Osprey backpacking packs or have a luggage handle pass-through sleeve.

Which Osprey daypack is best for big laptops?

The Arcane Tote, Flap, and XL below have padded laptop sleeves advertised for a 16-inch laptop, and depending on your laptop’s specific dimensions may be able to handle one that is a bit larger. Likewise, the Transporter Roll Top below can carry a large, 16-inch laptop in a relatively compact and very weather-resistant package.

Are Osprey daypacks worth the (somewhat) higher price?

Osprey does not make the cheapest backpacks, but given the quality of their materials, design, and construction, the prices are excellent. They come with a lifetime warranty and Osprey has a reputation for making things right if the daypacks ever fail.

We consider Osprey daypacks a worthwhile long-term investment—having a quality day pack prevents us from having to buy another one a few years later, and also from damaging our gear. Most of the daypacks discussed here— particularly the Heritage series , are also quite versatile, so one daypack can fulfill multiple uses.

Do Osprey daypacks fit carry-on requirements?

The Osprey daypacks covered here are all well within nearly all international and USA carry-on standards, though of course airline size requirements will vary. The sleeker, 20-25L bags will often be acceptable for USA airlines’ “personal item” size standards and so can be carried alongside a fuller-sized carry-on.

These are general guidelines; it is always necessary to check particular airlines sizing standards when flying. We ourselves have never been stopped and asked to check the size of our Osprey daypacks when flying with them as carry-ons in a number of countries.

Overall Pros and Cons of Osprey Daypacks

I have no qualms in recommending Osprey as I’ve been using the brand’s packs myself for years as I travel the globe writing for this site.

Osprey daypacks vary between themselves depending on intended use, but they do share some overall features, quality build, and the singular Osprey aesthetic.

Pros of Osprey Daypacks

Osprey daypacks are extremely lightweight , with the standard daypacks ranging in our selection from just under a pound (half-kilo) to just over two pounds (one kilo). The packable, simple Ultralight Stuff packs are even lighter.
The pocket situation generally offers a good balance for each type of bag depending on activity — and since there are so many different options you’re sure to have a bag that offers the right level of organization and device protection without any confusing pocket overkill. (Too many pockets will add weight and also make it harder to figure out where you have stashed things when you’re on the go.)
Quality materials : Osprey daypacks generally use 210D nylon bodies and even tougher 400HD or 420HD nylon for their bottoms, they are tougher than the cheap PP or polyester used in cheap bags and lighter than the waxed cotton canvas that was once popular. In a move towards better sustainability, some of the newer packs (e.g., the Heritage and Arcane series) use Bluesign-approved recycled high tenacity nylon, or (as with the renewed Daylite series) Bluesign-approved 300D and 600D recycled polyester. The zippers and buckles are of very high quality and tend to hold up well over the years. Backpackers like me buy an Osprey for life and expect it to last. We’re generally pleased with the results.
All daypacks are backed by Osprey’s excellent lifetime warranty and reputation for follow-up with customers if something does go wrong.
These daypacks are comfortable to carry ; they offer good ventilation on the back panel and shoulder-friendly padded harnesses/shoulder straps.

Cons of the Osprey Daypacks

There are a few general downsides, though they generally haven’t held us back from recommending and using these bags.

Not the cheapest backpacks out there: While Osprey is also not most expensive daypack designer, and we don’t consider the brand to be overpriced in most cases, you can definitely find good-enough generic backpacks out there without all that Osprey charm and perhaps overkill in terms of rough-and-tumble durability. Here’s a list of the top-rated cheapos from Amazon .
Only the Daylite bags can attach directly onto Osprey’s other backpacking packs. For longer travel, another option is to buy a larger pack that comes with a detachable daypack (doubling as the head of the bag), like the Aether/Ariel series of backpacking packs .
The sportier bags are not suitable for carrying laptops (as detailed in the tables); the Daylite Travel Plus is OK for smaller laptops and the Nebula/Nova, Heritage Series, Arcane Series, and Transporter series are the best choices for medium to larger laptops and tech gear.
There are a variety of quick-access pockets on many of these bags which can be targets for pickpockets in crowded places . Such pockets are better for things of little value, not for your passport and money, which should be in the inside pockets. You can also wear the bags in front of your torso in crowded places and pick up a smart, modern money belt .

Are Osprey Daypacks Water Resistant or Waterproof?

To be marketed as “waterproof”, backpacks would have to be shown to be submersible underwater and still keep their contents dry; no normal daypacks are built for scuba diving and Osprey’s are no exception.

All Osprey Daypacks are made of highly durable materials, as noted above, and will provide a good degree of water resistance. Also, Osprey carefully constructs its reinforced seams and uses quality zippers with protective flaps over them that are key for protection from water in a downpour.

Osprey daypacks are much more likely to withstand a heavy rain than cheaper, lower quality polyester or PP bags, even when those materials have a water-resistant coating. Such coatings tend to wear off and in any case water gets in mainly through looser seams and crummier zippers on such bags. And older canvas bags, while well-built, will soak up water, especially after any coating has worn off.

Some of Osprey’s newer bags made with recycled materials are treated with PFC-free DWR , which means “durable water repellency” treatments that do not use PFCs, the environmentally disastrous perfluorochemicals.

To share my personal experience, I’m not the sort of person to carry an umbrella; my Osprey Daylite has been caught in the rain with me a number of times and my papers and computer have come out dry and in good shape. I, on the other hand, came out a sopping wet idiot.

So for most people, the standard water resistance these Osprey Daypacks offer is likely enough. But if you’re going to frequently be in long periods in heavy rain—urban bikers in the American Northwest, for example—you’ll likely want to also get a rain cover or a daypack from the Transporter series , either of which will more completely protect your gear.

The Osprey Hikelite discussed below has a built-in rain cover. Otherwise, you can buy a rain cover separately; Osprey offers the following options:

For 10-20L daypacks: The Osprey Extra Small High Visibility Raincover
For 20-35L daypacks (most of the daypacks discussed here): The Osprey Small High Visibility Raincover
For 30-50L daypacks: The Osprey Ultralight Raincover Medium

If in doubt, choose a size larger, especially if you carry gear in outside pockets.

Here are other raincover options if the Osprey raincovers are out of stock at the moment.

Finally, for those who want a daypack that packs down quite small and is suitable for travel to very rainy environments, the best option would be the Ultralight Dry Stuff pack discussed below .

Women’s vs. Men’s Osprey Daypacks: The Differences

Osprey’s are in a few cases gender-specific, though most are unisex. Broadly speaking, dedicated women’s Osprey packs are designed with slightly changed angles in the padding around the hips, to allow women to use their often rounder hips to better support more weight there. Women’s packs are also generally a bit shorter and narrower than the men’s or unisex counterparts.

This does not make as much of a difference with Osprey daypacks , as they are not generally designed for carrying a lot of weight on the hips. The sportier packs with thin hip straps are meant merely to secure the pack if you’re running, scrambling, or biking over bumpy terrain.

In any case, the main thing to note with gendered daypacks is size . If you’re a man with a shorter torso, you may prefer a women’s daypack in some cases, and likewise, if you’re a woman with a longer torso you might prefer the daypacks marketed to men. In cases where these packs are not one-size-fits-all, we’ve listed the torso length ranges (see next section) so that you can get the exact right size.

You’ll also notice in our tables listing each daypack’s details that the women’s packs are sometimes designed to carry just a few liters less than the men’s counterparts — something to consider if you want to scale down or up just a bit from a particular pack.

And finally, Osprey hasn’t quite caught on to post-gendered-color-consciousness and offers slightly different color options in some cases for women and for men.

The features and pockets on men’s vs. women’s Osprey daypacks are the same.

Guys, if you’re concerned, there’s nothing particularly “girly-looking” about Osprey’s “women’s” daypacks. If you have a shorter torso or want a slightly smaller pack, they may be a great choice.

How to Measure Your Torso for Choosing Osprey Daypack Sizes

Torso sizes are not super-important with daypacks; the main considerations are features, capacity, and intended use. But a couple of Osprey daypacks are offered in different sizes, so here’s a guide to help you get the exact right one, should you choose a daypack with size options.

Locate the level of your hip bones.
Identify your C7 vertebra (it’s the bone that sticks out at the base of your neck when you bend your head down to your chest).
Measure the distance between the two.

That’s your back measurement for Osprey daypack purposes! The measurements for differently sized daypacks are included where there are such options in our descriptions.

The Best Osprey Daypacks for Travelling : The Daylite Series—Plus the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack

The Osprey Daylite and Osprey Daylite Plus are the daypacks to choose for accompanying you while travelling, particularly if you are also carrying large Osprey hiking packs.

These are the Osprey daypacks that are compatible with their kin, meaning they can easily clip into the following: the Osprey Aether/Ariel series, Farpoint/Fairview series, Porter series, Sojourn series, and finally the Volt/Viva series.

The Daylite and Daylite Plus daypacks emphasize lightness and have some basic organizational pockets but certainly don’t go overboard. They’re great for carrying sunscreen, a book, a phone, and something to keep you warm for when the sun starts to go down. Keys go on a neat little key clip in the front pocket, and there are side mesh pockets for a water bottle or coffee thermos. Other reviewers also generally admire their organizational design and build, and that they have been able to hold up over the years .

The Daylite Plus is better if will be carrying a laptop; the interior sleeve is padded (the sleeve for the regular Daylite is not). It can generally carry any 15″ laptop.

They’ll easily work as a carry-on on any airline, and often even as a personal item. If you’re stumped over which to get, check out the differences between the Daylite and Daylite Plus .

The Osprey Daylite Tote Pack is the version of the Daylite series to get if you also like to carry your bag over one shoulder—but it’s much better, if more expensive, than a traditional tote bag, with a full range of the Daylite series features. There are convenient organizational pockets including easy access outside pockets for stuffing things in on the go (also a good place to hide the straps you’re not using) and water bottle pockets.

Inside the Daylite Tote, there is a padded laptop sleeve for 15″ laptops and in a nod to the way people are more likely to carry and set down a tote bag, the sleeve hangs a bit higher off of the bottom of the bag so that you’re less likely to damage a laptop if you plop the bag too quickly onto the ground.

A jack of all trades, the Daylite Tote is also set up for travel with a sleeve that allows it to slip over the handle of a roller suitcase and remain stable. This is not the daypack to get for backpacking in the woods; it does not clip onto the larger Osprey packs and it does not have a hip belt.

The Osprey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack 26+6 is the most suitable of the Daylite series as a travel complement to a suitcase, as it has a pass-through sleeve for a roller suitcase handle and it opens up fully with a wrap-around zipper for easy access to absolutely everything you’re carrying.

In its zipped up state you may be able to use it as a carry on on many airlines, though rules of course will vary. It also expands out an additional six liters, and conveniently this expansion space on the inside has a mesh divider, making it great for storing dirty clothes.

There is also a very similar clip-on travel daypack option that carries a larger, 16″ laptop in its padded sleeve: the Farpoint / Fairview Travel Daypack . Its total volume sits in between the Daylite and Daylite Plus at 15L.

The daypack is branded with two names because it is compatible with both the Farpoint series for men and Fairview series for women; the very adjustable daypack is fine for any gender and body dimensions. These two series have both Osprey trekking backpacks and wheeled backpacks; you’ll definitely want to choose this daypack as a compliment if you own or plan to purchase packs from this Osprey series. It can clip onto the front straps of the Farpoint and Fairview bags (which is more balanced, comfortable, and better for keeping an eye on valuables) and also be attached into the back of the bags (if you want to keep the packs as one unit).

The Farpoint / Fairview Travel Daypack is a bit narrower than the Daylite packs as it is really mainly designed as an accessory, and the main compartment is lockable. It is otherwise quite similar. The laptop sleeve is padded and can double as a hydration pouch, though you should never use it for both at the same time, obviously. As with other newer Osprey daypack models, the material is recycled 450D polyester with PFAS-free DWR, or water-repellent finish. There is an internal pocket on the laptop sleeve that is perfect for protecting valuable passports, money, and other such items, external mesh pockets for water bottles, and an external top pocket for quick access items.

I’d recommend the Farpoint / Fairview for those with a larger 16-inch laptop or who are using the Farpoint / Fairview series for travel (it comes with a few of those trekking packs). The clips are the same as the clips for the older Daylite packs, so, while Osprey doesn’t announce this, the Osprey Farpoint Fairview Travel Daypack is also compatible with (that is, can be clipped onto the front of) packs from the Osprey Aether/Ariel, Porter, Sojourn, and Volt/Viva series.

The Farpoint Fairview Travel Daypack is generally a great travel companion on its own or with other luggage—I now use it on a daily basis and have given a full review here .

The Most Lightweight, Packable, Scrunch-Down-Able Osprey Daypacks

These are Osprey’s answer for travellers who want a daypack for odds and ends while out walking a city or parks, and then want to stuff the pack down and have it take up as little space and weight as possible in their main luggage. While I prefer the organizational features of the Daylite options above, packable packs are a good answer for those travelling light with packs or small suitcases that are not compatible to be clipped on, or for those who otherwise want to be able to fold down and pack their daypacks.

The smallest, lightest daypack option is the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack , weighing just under 4 ounces / 100 grams. The chief feature is that it can be stuffed and scrunched down into its own built-in packing cube about the size of the palm of your hand. Otherwise, folded out for use there are not a lot of frills: just a simple water bottle pocket and a top pocket with a built-in key clip.

The shoulder straps are thinner than those of other Osprey daypacks; this is not designed to support serious weight, but the straps are still soft and quite comfortable.

The waterproof packable version is the Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack , which comes in at about twice the weight and doesn’t fold down quite as small, but is still quite light and packable. A sternum strap with a built-in safety whistle is added, so this is suitable for carrying just a bit more stuff for longer periods.

The Best Osprey Daypacks for Adventure Sports, Mountain Biking, and Hiking: The Sportlite Series

Osprey’s new take on smaller backpacks for day hikes and outdoor sports are its Sportlite daypacks. They excel in stability for those who are carrying a small to medium amount of gear while hiking, running, biking, climbing, or otherwise bouncing about a bit.

All Sportlite packs are designed to be incredibly comfortable for an entire day of outdoor wearing, even when limber, athletic movement is required. The shoulder straps (and sternum strap on the Sportlite 20, 25, and 30) and the hip belts keep the Sportlite packs secured in place. The compression straps help keep the load supported by bringing it closer to your body. Meanwhile, there is a central channel in the back panel that supposedly allows some air flow, or at least won’t trap much heat and sweat.

The smallest is the Osprey Sportlite 15 , with that number meaning a 15L volume. Since both it and the slightly larger Osprey Sportlite 20 are for smaller loads, they don’t have a full-on padded hip belt intended to carry the weight, but rather a thinner, removable hip strap that merely stabilizes the pack at the waist level—especially useful during dynamic movement. The Sportlite 15 is truly minimalist and lacks even the front stash pocket that is so convenient on the larger Sportlites for having a quick place to stuff a scarf, hat, sweater, or small jacket; it’s also a good place to keep anything wet or smelly.

The larger Osprey Sportlite 25 and Osprey Sportlite 30 have fully padded hip belts that tighten at each side for stability and distribution of the weight to the hips. The hip belts have zippered pockets for quick access to small essentials. The Sportlite 30 has a lid with its own pocket as seen on Osprey and other brands’ larger backpacking packs and loads from the top. (I prefer the panel loading of the three smaller Sportlites as it is easier to access everything in the bag without unpacking.)

All of the Sportlite packs are entirely equipped for serious hikers, with long and deep side pockets that serve for water bottles or other gear (some previous Osprey daypacks have water bottle pockets that were not deep enough to secure taller water bottles). There are loops for trekking poles, which are then secured at the top of the packs by the compression straps and can be quickly released.

If you bike, hike, or run near such a dangerous and awful thing as automobiles, you’ll appreciate the attachment point on all Sportlite packs for a blinker light for visibility.

The Osprey Talon / Tempest vs. the New Sportlite Series

The main differences between the Osprey Sportlite series of daypacks and the previous, classic Talon and Tempest series (also for adventure hiking, and covered in the next section) are:

The Sportlite daypacks add some features that the Talon and Tempest lack, like a blinker light attachment point , improved Airscape breathable padding on the back, more flexible hip straps , deeper and more useful side mesh gear / water bottle pockets , and an additional top exterior quick-release compression strap . The organizational pockets are slightly different and depend on pack size.
The older Talon/Tempest series are sometimes available for a bit cheaper (we link to the best prices we can find in the Talon/Tempest table in the next section). You can also check the Osprey sale page where there are sometimes deals on older packs.
The Talon/Tempest daypacks come in a wider range of size options than the Sportlite series, including gendered options. This means that if you have a particularly longer/shorter or wider/narrower torso you may be able to find a more exact fit for your frame. However, with smaller daypacks like these, such exact sizing is not really necessary, so we’re not surprised that Osprey has done away with the women/men distinctions and some of the volume options in the new Sportlite packs. The Sportlite shoulder harness and hip straps are quite adjustable for a range of body types.

In spite of these differences, the Sportlite and the Talon/Tempest series have quite a lot in common ; they have excellent organizational pockets, quality 100D recycled nylon material, and very comfortable carrying straps and padding for long days in the wilderness.

Osprey’s Classic Adventure/Hiking Daypack Series: The Osprey Talon (Men) and Tempest (Women) Series

Osprey’s previous version of sports-and-longer-hiking-themed daypacks are its Talon (for men) and Tempest (for women) series. While they are mainly supplanted by the Sportlite options just above; they are still excellent hiking daypacks and are still generally available.

All of these daypacks are quite lightweight and come in a large range of sizes. On the smaller end, the men’s daypacks are the Talon 11-liter and Talon 22-liter versions, and the women’s options are the Tempest 9-liter and Tempest 20-liter packs. There are larger versions available as well , though those are no longer really just daypacks.

Aside from the obvious capacity differences, the main difference between the larger (Talon 22 and Tempest 20) and smaller (Talon 11 and Tempest 9) daypacks is the front panel. There is a non-zippered “stash pocket” on the larger packs and instead of that a bungee cord on the front of the smaller ones. In both cases these are great for quickly stuffing wet gear, a bit of trash that you intend to pack out, or other items that you’d want to keep separate from your main compartment.

The backpanel’s rigid suspension system (“airspace”) manages to keep the packs stable and yet backpackers find it offers excellent breathability.

The harness packets and back stash pockets are made of a stretchy but quite tough mesh material that doesn’t fall apart like the mesh used on cheaper packs (which can often be the first point of weakness).

Those who use trekking poles enjoy the quick access of having them under their arms, attached to the shoulder harness. You can also attach them to the back of the pack.

As we noted above, the genders of daypacks don’t make a huge difference, but with the Talon and Tempest packs you will have size options so it’s worth measuring your torso as we mentioned . When in doubt, go for your torso length and/or prefered-capacity pack, not your gender.

Talon daypacks (“men”) small-medium size: torso length of 16-19 in. / 40.5-48 cm.
Talon daypacks (“men”) medium-large size: torso length of 19-23 in. / 48-58.5 cm.
Tempest daypacks (“women”) extra-small to small size: torso length of 13-16 in. / 33 – 40.5 cm.
Tempest daypacks (“women”) small-medium size: torso length of 16-20 in. / 40.5-51 cm.

So: Tall women and short men will likely be more comfortable if they ignore the gendered marketing.

We have also seen good prices on these at Moosejaw .

The Best Small Packs for Long Days Out Hiking in Very Wet Weather: The Osprey Hikelite Series

Are you going for daylong hikes in the gorgeous, rainy Northwest of the USA, for example? The Osprey Hiklite 18 or Hikelite 26 would then be the top choice for you. (Their main difference is that they hold 18 or 26 liters of your stuff, respectively.)

These are the Osprey daypacks with an integrated (but removable) raincover that slides out of the bottom sleeve and can be used to completely cover the pack, making it quite convenient to cover up when a downpour starts.

The other basic hiking and trekking elements are also there. You can stash trekking poles in the attachments on either side of the pack and secure them with the upper compression straps. There’s a hydration sleeve that holds up to a 3L reservoir. And the scratch-resistant top pocket holds sunglasses or a phone without damaging them, and making them easy to access when needed.

The Osprey airspeed system provides a bit of a “trampoline” effect so that only a springy mesh rests against your back and air passes through in the curved space between this mesh and the pack itself, keeping you cool. It doesn’t mean you’ll never sweat, but it does help keep air flowing, and keeps heat from building up on your pack, and any sweat from soaking the pack. The shoulder harness also lets air through and is quite comfortable, as with most Osprey packs.

There are hip straps but they are not padded and not designed to carry weight, just to secure the pack to you if necessary, as the other Osprey daypacks. They are removable (and probably not useful for most people unless you’re running, biking, or otherwise bouncing). Reviewers have found the pack to stay comfortable and not chafe after day-long hikes.

The 26L version also has a stash pocket on the outside, making it a convenient place to carry partially wet rain gear for example, should the sun come out.

And while it has an inner pouch that could fit a 15-inch laptop, the Hikelite 26 is still not very suitable for carrying electronics as this sleeve is not padded. If you’re rough with your bag or regularly using it for a laptop, go for a more laptop-friendly hiker option like the Heritage series just below or else the more weatherproof and laptop-ready Transporter series daypacks .

Great All-Purpose Smaller Trekking-Style Packs with Urban Features: The Osprey Heritage Series (Simplex 20, Scarab 30, and Nanofly Versions)

Osprey’s Heritage series is playing hard on nostalgia for older Osprey designs—here completely updated for current tastes with features like laptop sleeves and recycled PFC-free materials. If you are into the hybrid look (modern+retro) and have hybrid needs (backcountry+city) these small backpacks may be perfect for you.

The Osprey Heritage Simplex 20 opens fully with a zipper that goes all the way around the sides and top (“panel loading”) so that you can get at items anywhere in the pack without completely unpacking or trying to dig around blindly. The features you’d expect from a backpacker pack are there: excellent breathable suspension and padded hipbelt, outer attachment points for gear and a bungee cord to tie down a wet jacket or other items, a sleeve for a water bottle with a thread-through opening for the tube, and tough-but-lightweight material and construction.

For more day-to-day use the water reservoir sleeve is padded and designed to fit 15-inch laptops, and there is a key clip on the inside stash pocket. That inside pocket can also be accessed from the outside front panel, which is convenient for you but makes the pack less suitable for crowded city areas where there could be pickpockets.

The Osprey Heritage Scarab 30 is similar to the Simplex 20; the most immediately notable difference is the outer compression straps to help you cinch down the volume of your gear once the pack is closed. We’re not so sure how necessary that is in a small pack, but it can help with balancing the pack a bit on a long hike.

Similarly to the Simplex 20, the Scarab 30 opens up fully with U-shaped zippered access to the main compartment so there is no need to unpack everything to get at something in the bottom of the pack.

The Scarab 30’s padded hip belt straps can slide inside when not in use. The harness and back panel are padded and built for comfort on long hikes, but without the mesh ventilation suspension of the Simplex 20.

Overall the Scarab 30 is an ideal choice for a minimalist traveller that likes to carry a rather retro-looking small pack, but wants the modern convenience of a laptop sleeve.

The Nanofly versions of these packs are the same but with Nanofly fabrics, which Osprey says are more highly resistant to scratches and tears while maintaining the same lightness. The Nanofly versions are also, of course, slightly more expensive. Bear in mind that very high quality materials and construction (along with a lifetime warranty) are included with the regular versions; for most uses it is unlikely that the extra upgraded durability is warranted. But if it gives you peace of mind…

Full-Featured City/Laptop Backpacks: Tropos (Men) and Talia (Women)

Note: These are older designs and the Talia is not available at our last check; the Tropos is still available but may be on the way out. They’re still highly worthwhile in our opinion, especially if they’re showing up discounted in the Amazon links below. The newer city/laptop backpacks to consider are the Arcane series covered in a later section .

The Osprey Tropos and Talia bags are meant more for “urban” use and are extremely suited for carrying large laptops and even a second portable screen.

Two main features distinguish the Tropos and Talia from other such bags. The first is the “kickstand” feature, which is a bit poorly named since it’s nothing like a bike kickstand aside from keeping the whole unit vertical. What Osprey means is that there’s an interior hard frame on the front and back of the back, and whether or not the pack is full of stuff this frame will always keep it standing up straight, rather than collapse over on its side as most bags would. Not exactly indispensable, but cool enough.

The laptop sleeve in these bags is roomy and entirely separate from the main compartment — the laptop sleeve is located just against your back and is both padded and has a hard shell on the back panel to keep it safe. The sleeve is also “hanging” so that your laptop is never jostled against the ground directly if you should drop your bag with a thump. There’s another little sleeve in the laptop compartment for cables and such.

The main compartment is quite roomy; it holds 34 L for the Tropos and 30 L for the Talia. There are also side mesh pockets for water or coffee and a front panel pocket with very complete organizational options for cards, pens, and more, including also the key ring holder seen on Osprey’s other daypacks.

Reviewers have found the pack to hold up well over time, and while it is larger than the other daypacks on this page, it remains relatively lightweight for its size. It’s not quite as great as being able to roll your laptop bag , but it’s the closest you’ll get without wheels.

Note that if you don’t need all that space you can reduce the size with the compression straps and get the feeling of carrying a svelter daypack that you can then expand again whenever you need to.

While this is an “urban” daypack it’s quite adapted for active use, including biking. The back panel is suspended to allow for breathability and there are attachment points on the back that are suitable for a helmet and for a bike light.

In 2019 the Tropos was updated to be just slightly wider and less deep, presumably to fit even larger laptops and second screens; this added 2 L to the overall volume. We of course link to the current model and its correct current dimensions, but you may still see the older model from some other sellers.

More Basic City/Laptop Backpacks: Nebula (Men) and Nova (Women)

Note: These are older options from Osprey but still available at last check. They’re still highly worthwhile in our opinion, especially if they’re showing up discounted in the Amazon links below. Otherwise, the newer city/laptop backpacks to consider are the Arcane series further down the page .

The Osprey Nebula and Nova are good-enough laptop daypacks that are just as durably built as the Tropos and Talia above, but lack some of their excellent features.

There is nice padding on the Nova’s and Nebula’s back panel that is raised a bit for some breathability, but these lack the excellent curved back and mesh combo that raises the Tropos or Talia completely off your back to allow airflow. The Nova and Nebula also lack the interior hanging laptop sleeve and kickstand features.

All that said, the Nebula and Nova are absolutely suited to urban use and protecting your laptop and other gear, with a stiff back panel and padding. They are 34 and 33 liters respectively.

One of their main selling points is that the laptop compartment opens completely flat to allow for airport screening without removing your laptop. In theory at least, for the TSA in the United States; most airport screenings in most countries will still make you take your laptop out, and this is still likely enough in the USA too. One reviewer also complains that the zippers can get a bit stuck when the bag is opened completely in this way.

The main compartment is separate from the laptop compartment, and has mini sleeves inside it for separating cables and for documents.

On top of the pack are a slash pocket for sunglasses or a phone, and on the front is an organizational panel with plenty of pockets for business cards, cables, and the like, plus a fob for your keychain.

There are attachment points at the front of the daypack for a bike light and helmet, and a quick access open pocket that’s great for carrying wet gear until you get a chance to dry it out, or a sandwich.

As with all of the other daypacks on this page, the Nebula and Nova have held up over time quite well for customers and others who have reviewed them. In spite of their light weight they can hold quite a bit of gear, and have the largest capacity of the daypacks discussed here.

Streamlined, Everyday Student-Style Backpacks: The Osprey Apogee (Men), Aphelia (Women), and Centauri (Unisex, Smaller)

The Osprey Apogee (designed slightly longer for men’s backs) and Aphelia (shorter and slightly wider for women’s backs) are marketed as “24/7” day-to-day backs. To me, these are student backpacks—with excellent organizational pockets and size for carrying a laptop, a few books, sunglasses, and a water bottle.

These packs have a smoother look to them than the typical student backpacks, however, and are suitable if you don’t want a blatant studenty look. The water bottle pockets in particular are notable in that they are not notable—you slide a water bottle in the side and it is hidden, you’d hardly note it was there.

There are compression straps, which we really don’t think are useful on such an already small, svelte urban pack for daily use, but they tuck away in any case when not in use.

If you don’t have much to carry, you might opt for the Centauri version instead, which has about 30% less capacity (though at it’s size and with nearly the same features you could consider the Daylite Plus , which tends to be cheaper, though is not as svelte looking as the Centauri).

The Best Full-Featured City Backpacks: The Osprey Arcane Series (Small, Large, XL, Flap, and Tote)

The Arcane Family from Osprey emphasizes daily city use with a full range of organizational pockets and features, but in deceptively simple designs. The materials are durable and mainly recycled and sustainable.

The Arcane Series packs have laptop sleeves but also a separate sleeve to protect your documents—an excellent feature that is missing from many competing backpacks. I have inadvertently often crushed papers with my laptop when using the same sleeve for both—Osprey designers may have had the same issue and have solved it here.

Another important feature for city folks or students on the Arcane packs is the clip-off shoulder strap that allows you to quickly secure the pack to a chair or bar rail in a way that any bag snatchers will not be expecting.

The Arcane day packs use very comfortable foam padding on the harness and back panel, though it is not as breathable as what you have on the more outdoorsy Tempest/Talon/Hikelite options or the Daylite series. Arcane is going for a simpler, streamlined look and feel as opposed to being ready for rugged, outdoorsy, technical uses.

All Arcane day packs except for the Flap pack have an in-shoulder harness strap mesh sleeve to keep small items accessible without removing the pack from your back. This is great for bus/train/tram cards, chapstick, a work ID, and/or an earbud case. The shoulder straps do not, however, have a front sternum strap that connects them; this can help bring the weight forward and off of your shoulders. It is generally not a necessity for such smaller packs but if this is an issue for you, you may want to opt for other city pack options on this page, especially the Heritage series above .

At the smallest end of the Arcane day pack series is the Osprey Arcane Small Day Pack , which doesn’t look like much but has everything you might need for a full day in the city or at classes—except for a water bottle pocket (we think that’s key, so for a small pack we’d opt instead for the excellent Arcane Flap Pack described below).

The Arcane Small can carry a 13″ laptop and 10L total of gear.

The Osprey Arcane Large doubles the capacity to 20L and is thus more suitable for most people; there is a 15″ laptop sleeve as well as a water bottle pocket.

Moving another step up in size to 30L, we find the Osprey Arcane XL , which still managed to look minimalist while carrying three times as much as the Small. This is the pack for larger laptops too—16″ laptops are no problem. I also happen to like it that here the laptop sleeve migrates around to rest just behind the foam padding on your back. This makes it secure from pickpockets, but also quite easy for you to access when you take the pack off without opening up the main compartment.

The Osprey Arcane Tote Pack is a version of the Osprey Large with basically the same features, but also tote straps for carrying the bag over one shoulder. One imagines oneself at a farmers’ market picking up a few vegetables this way or doing other small errands. The tote straps tuck into a stash pocket (also quite convenient for wet items like a poncho). And yet this pack is ready to go on your back with fully padded backpack straps and a back panel.

The Arcane Tote can fit a 16″ laptop in its inside padded laptop sleeve and has a hidden water bottle pocket.

The Osprey Arcane Flap Pack is an interesting offshoot from the Arcane series that still maintains the minimalist-style-but-maximal-features mindset. Its 14L capacity is just a bit larger than the Arcane Small, but unlike the small it has a zipping, pop-out water bottle pocket and it can carry a 16″ laptop in its padded sleeve.

There is also a side phone pocket but I’d be a bit wary about putting anything valuable there in a crowded environment as it is also accessible to thieves.

The shoulder straps, unfortunately, lack the mesh transport card pocket that is present on the other Arcane packs. But overall, this is an excellent, complete day pack with a classy profile, and one of my favorites from Osprey.

The Osprey Arcane Roll Top is quite similar to the Arcane Large Day Pack but a bit larger at 24L and with a distinctive look due to its roll-up top. It’s an option if you want to carry stuff on your back but don’t want to look like you’re carrying a typical backpack. I’d rather use zipper technology myself, but—even with Osprey’s quality construction—an argument could be made that a roll-up and clip closure is likely to last even longer.

The Best Ultra-Rugged City Backpack for Cycling and Heavy Frequent Rain: The Osprey Transporter Series (Small Zip Top, Large Zip Top, Panel Loader, Roll Top, Flap)

The rough-and-tumble Transporter series from Osprey includes a whole lot of things that are not daypacks, including large duffel bags with and without wheels. This is the Osprey series that’s ready for truly serious outdoor abuse. As we noted above, all Osprey daypacks offer a good level of resistance to water and your precious documents and laptop inside are likely to come out better than you after a quick downpour. But if you frequently live and travel in very wet and/or dirty environments, the Transporter daypacks would be the way to go.

The key difference in these packs is their TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) coating (in addition to a DWR treatment for water resistance). TPU-treated material lasts longer than and should hold up to even more abuse, and so we’d expect the Transporter series daypacks to survive rain, mud, and rough treatment even better than the other Osprey daypacks discussed here. And just like the newer Osprey series daypacks, Transporter daypacks use heavy-duty recycled polyester with a PFC-free treatment for a more sustainable impact.

While these are ready for the outdoors, the Transporter series daypacks (unlike Osprey’s Hikelite/Tempest/Talon daypacks) are also ready to organize your day-to-day city needs, with organizational spots for laptops, pens, separate documents, water bottles, and more.

The Transporter day packs are also designed to distribute weight comfortably with a full padded and breathable shoulder harness with sternum strap and back panel. They’re also great for travel along with a rolling suitcase as the top carry handle can function as a sleeve to slide over the luggage’s extended handle.

The Osprey Transporter Small Zip Top and Osprey Transporter Large Zip Top are the classic versions in 25L and 30L capacities, respectively. We’d expect the bucket-style flip open top to be the best of any of the Transporter packs at protecting from water, though they should all be fine. The Transporter Small fits only a 13″ laptop in its internal sleeve whereas the Transporter Larger takes up to a 15″ laptop in its side-access zippered laptop sleeve.

Confusingly, the Transporter Small Zip Top is not the smallest pack in the Transporter series. Coming in a bit smaller are the Osprey Transporter Panel Loader and the Osprey Transporter Flap at 20L capacity each. The Panel Loader opens around the top and sides like a traditional school backpack with a zipper, and the Flap has, of course, a flap that affixes with a buckle. They have only a single water bottle pocket (certainly enough). The Panel Loader fits a much larger 16″ laptop in its dedicated sleeve.

The Osprey Transporter Roll Top is the same size as the Transporter Small at 25L but fits a much larger 16″ laptop in its external padded sleeve. It has a rolling top that attaches with a buckle for those who enjoy that look.

Roundup: Which Osprey Daypack Is Best for You ? And Where Are the Best Prices?

All Osprey daypacks are made of excellent lightweight but durable materials and have held up for years in our hands and those of other reviewers and customers.

For the best prices, be sure to check their different color options at the Amazon links to Osprey daypacks , as some colors are often deeply discounted there .

Throughout this article we try to link to the cheapest color options, but things often change so it’s worth checking the different colors for a discount. At last check Amazon is much more likely to have all of the bags in stock, but Osprey USA of course sells its day packs (or “lifestyle” packs) directly too and sometimes it has sales . (Check here for Osprey Euro pean shoppers .)

We’ve also on some occasions noticed good prices at Moosejaw , though there can be less of a selection.

If you want a daypack for travel , and particularly a daypack that will clip on to other Osprey packs, go for the Osprey Farpoint Fairview Travel Daypack , the Osprey Daylite or the Daylite Plus ; the Farpoint Fairview and the Daylite Plus are suitable for carrying a laptops.

The best daypacks for bouncing and jumping around (literally) in the great outdoors are the Sportlite series, and of these the one I’d go for is the intermediate sized Osprey Sportlite 25 , which is both panel loading, like the smaller Sportlites and has a padded hip belt with a quick access pocket, like the Osprey Sportlite 30 (which is top loading, bleh).

While all Osprey daypacks offer some rain resistance, if you need an outdoorsy pack with an integrated rain cover for seriously wet climes (you poor thing!), the unisex Osprey Hiklite 18 or Hikelite 26 are your guys. They also have all the necessary storage features for trekking like attachments for trekking poles and a hydration pouch.

My personal favorites are currently the Arcane series as I’m a bit of a city boy. While I’m not about to give up my Daylite (I’m also a perpetual, minimalist nomad), if I were getting a new bag right now for city commutes I’d without a doubt go for the classy, svelte, full-featured Arcane Flap Pack .

If looking for a deal, note that some discontinued Osprey daypacks are still sometimes available and may be a good deal—although at our last check, they were out of stock.

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About The Author

Mose Hayward

20 thoughts on “the differences in the top osprey daypacks — and how to choose the perfect smaller pack for daily use”.

Any comment on the Tempest Velocity 20?

Hi, I notice the Sportlite series is not included in this list – I believe it’s quite a new bag from Osprey. Would you be able to comment on whether the Sportlite series would be compatible with larger backpacks in the same way as the Daylite series? I’m keen to be able to clip the bags together. Thanks

Hi Olivia, we’ve updated this article with coverage of the Sportlite daypacks, which are mainly an update of the wilderness-adventure-themed Tempest and Talon daypacks. No, they do not clip onto larger Osprey packs; for that you will indeed want the Daylite daypacks.

very helpful – thank you! Finally much more clarity on these packs, and which one will suit me best.

Nice to hear, thanks!

Very useful. When I think I have fund a perfect Osprey daypack there is another model someone recommends. I fell that especially organizing small items/ pocket stuff when hiking is missing from most Osprey packs.

I wish you could include the Apogee, Escapist, Syncro and Skarab/Skimmer as well. There is also a Daylite Travel now.

We’ve just updated this article with the newer daypacks that are currently available. 🙂

I have had my Daylite Plus for about 4 years. I have used it everyday including international travel. Except for the useless water bottle pouches it has served me well. Today one of the interior framing wires has separated from its mooring. I will soon find out about Osprey’s warranty policy.

Thanks, very helpful. Just one question re-size options: is there much downside to opting for a larger size (e.g. Talon-22 vs 11, or Hikelite-26 vs 18)? My tendency is to lean towards a larger size, for option-value for more gear, but (e.g.) does a half-full Talon-22 provide a noticeably less snug fit than a full Talon-11?

I personally wouldn’t worry about carrying these packs half full as you can cinch them down a bit.

Thank you very much for this article. Very detailed and provided a toe-to-toe comparison of the backpacks. I already owned a Talon 22 and was contemplating on whether a Daylite or Daylite Plus would be a good addition. Your article has helped me decide to stick with the Talon 22 since I wasn’t going to gain much. Appreciate what you’ve researched and compiled.

Thanks! I actually love that I’ve helped you to *not* buy a bag then; it’s great to avoid consumer waste. 🙂

I’m a Daylite Plus owner and to be honest…the ability to clip it onto my Porter 46 is the ONLY reason I use it. The “stuff-it” area is too small and shallow to really be useful, the mesh pockets on the sides seem to be designed to dump your water jug on the ground as quickly as possible, and (being a big dude) it’s just not wide enough to ride comfortably on my back. That said, as long as you go light, can deal with the strange bulbous bottom and use a carabiner on your water jug, the Daylite Plus works…sort of. Glad I got it for free. When I bought my Porter last year, I looked at the option of getting the Farpoint with the zip-on daypack, but in the end, the Porter/Daylite combo carried more, was easier to mate/separate, and worked better in non-backpack mode so that’s the route I went – given that I already owned the Daylite Plus. If I hadn’t, maybe the Farpoint would have been more appealing.

I’d recommend a smaller water bottle for starters, and playing with the wide variety of adjustment options on the Daylite Plus for the straps. But thanks for sharing your experiences here!

Great article! There is also a Daylite Travel pack designed for commuters. It has more storage compartments than the Daylite Plus and has a expansion zipper allowing the main compartment to increase in volume from 18L to 24L.

The Daylite Plus has an external “shove it” pouch, hip belt and removable foam frame sheet. The Travel does not have these features.

In the end I returned both bags. The shoulder straps were too uncomfortable. the straps were too narrow and rubbed against the sides of my neck.

Thankyou for such a great article. Helped me decide which one i wanted by the end. Didnt get that info even when i asked for assistance at the outdoor gear shop where tget had all the above models

Thanks for letting me know, much appreciated!

This was very helpful, thanks.

Thank you very much for all your time and effort you obviously devoted to this article. It really made a difference to me!

Thanks for taking the moment to comment and let us know that! Much appreciated!

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Osprey Hikelite 18L Daypack Review: Breezy Ventilation and Catch-All Versatility

Osprey Hikelite 18L Daypack Review

the backpanel on the osprey hikelite 18L pack

I won’t say this Hikelite is the “goldilocks” of packs — there are far too many packs on market for this to be the perfect one. However, compared to other Osprey models and daypack variations, the Osprey Hikelite 18L is up there as one of my top two favorites.

Why? Its ratio of volume to technical features to price is stellar for those who want a versatile, take-anywhere pack.

Volume: 18L, 26L
Weight: 1.49 lbs. (18L size)
Style: Frameless
Materials: 100-denier nylon diamond fabric on main, 500-denier nylon packcloth on base of pack
Straps: Padded shoulder straps, sternum strap, hipbelt
Features: AirSpeed ventilated back panel, side compression straps, side mesh pockets, external zip pocket, trekking pole attachment, removable hipbelt, safety whistle
Rain cover included

Osprey Hikelite vs. Daylite Packs

Both Osprey’s Daylite and Hikelite daypacks have sternum straps and removable hipbelt straps, a hydration reservoir, side pockets, compression straps, and a zippered main compartment.

However, the Hikelite offers a slightly more comfortable fit for longer stretches on the trail and is slightly more technical in terms of pack features. I also found the Hikelite to be more ventilated/breathable, specifically because of the AirScape back panel and different ventilated carry straps.

Inversely, the Daylite is lighter-weight, packs down smaller, and is a better choice for general use. The Daylite Plus offers a few extra compartments and is more expandable, making it the best travel pack out of the three.

For more technical hikes and better versatility (depending on where my day took me), I preferred the Osprey Hikelite 18L slightly more — especially the additions of the larger zipper pulls, trekking pole loop attachments, and rain cover.

Overall, this daypack has held up over 100 miles in testing. The exterior is durable, the straps are comfortable, and the back panel is breathable as heck. Especially for hot and humid climates, this pack is a winner.

I found it to be spot on with what Osprey designed it for: general daily use and technical trail hikes alike. Its 18L size is just big enough for longer days (though there is a 26L option available too).

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more. Read more…

Mary Murphy is the Managing Editor of GearJunkie. She has been writing about hiking, running, climbing, camping, skiing, and more for eight years, and has been on staff at GearJunkie since 2019. Prior to that, Mary wrote for 5280 Magazine in Denver while working as an outdoor instructor teaching climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and mountain biking. Based in Denver, Colorado, Murphy is an avid hiker, runner, backpacker, skier, yogi, and pack-paddleboarder.

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Osprey Hikelite 18 Backpack – Review Of A New Series

Last Modified: 04/24/2024

The Osprey Hikelite 18 Backpack is what is indicated in the title, an incredibly lightweight pack from a new series, with tensioned trampoline-style back mesh and an internal frame.

Key features & benefits

Ultra-lightweight pack yet with a metal frame.
Rain cover included.
Very versatile.
High quality.

What type of pack is this

You may be surprised to realize that this tiny 18 liters daypack has an internal frame , a peripheral wire which gives it the shape and also provides tension to its back trampoline mesh.

Now, it may look similar to yet another popular pack by Osprey, the Daylite pack, but those are very different tools, see more below.

The Hikelite 18 is the part if a completely new series that includes also a bigger pack, the Hikelite 26 which has a bit more features.

Who is it for

♦ This is a tiny pack with an excellent back ventilation system, and it has many features suitable for ultra-light and fast day hiking tours . Those features include the following:

The attachment loops on the front for trekking poles. You can see in the picture below how they are attached.
The hydration reservoir sleeve. The Hikelite 18 is compatible with all Hydraulics reservoirs.
Compression straps, one on each side of the pack. You can use them to cinch the pack and stabilize the items inside, but you can also use them to fix in place any elongated item carried in the side stretch pockets.
The rain cover . Yes, you are reading correctly, you have it stored in a separate pocket on the bottom.
A tiny hip belt that you can use if you are moving fast on a rough terrain.
The pack is with a sliding sternum strap and an emergency whistle.

♦ But this pack is also very much suitable for city use and for commuting. This is because it does not look like a hiking pack, it is a panel-loading type with a long zipper, which looks like an ordinary city pack.

The hip belt is removable , so without it, the pack looks really like an ordinary daypack for city use. The internal sleeve you can use for a tablet or a notebook computer.

More about construction & materials

The materials are very good here, and you have 6 great colors to choose from. The main fabric is 100D nylon Mini Diamond Shadow and on the bottom you have 500D nylon.

Suspension system

They call it AirSpeed system, which is a suspended mesh back panel supported by a peripheral wire which gives it its tension. So the pack is always away from the body and air can circulate freely. I have been using such packs for almost two decades now and I know there is no better ventilation.

This is a small pack, yet shoulder harness is with some light and breathable padding, while the hip belt is just a narrow strap. This is not a big issue for such a small pack. Both the hip belt as it is, and the sternum strap help stabilize the pack if you have to move fast or even to run.

The pockets & compartments

You have the usual side mesh pockets, quite large and with a very stretchy material. You can store water bottles there or a tripod, or anything similar. The strap on the side will help to keep this in place.

One top scratch-free pocket is available for glasses and electronics, and the rest is just the main compartment with its internal sleeve.

Osprey Hikelite 18 vs Osprey Daylite 13

See some differences between these two packs, please follow the link to see more about the second pack. Both have some good features, but the ventilation and suspension are far better in the Hikelite 18 pack; the question is of course if you need such a suspension in a back of this size.

*This means that it can be attached to some bigger Osprey’s packs.

Please see a bit more about the Hikelite series in this short video by Osprey:

Specifications

Gender: unisex.
Weight: 0.67 kg.
Volume: 18 l (1098 in³).
Dimensions (L x W x D): 46 x 24 x 28 cm.
Rain cover.
Waist belt webbing removable.
Guarantee: Osprey’s All Mighty.

Osprey Hikelite 18 vs Competitors

In the table below I give the Hikelite 18 side by side with some other packs from top brands. See some features and how they compare. Please follow the links to see more.

COMPARE PACKAGE FEATURES

Adjustable harness

Padded hip belt

Pole attachment loops

Side straps

Hip belt pockets

Osprey Hikelite 18

Payable Every Month

check on amazon

Exped Skyline 15

Payable Every Year

Read my review

Kelty Riot 15

*Note, here you have 2 shoulder strap pockets instead.

Final thoughts, rating, pros & cons

In the summary of this Osprey Hikelite 18 Backpack review, to say that what you have here is a great combination of high-performance features, versatility, and excellent value for money. This tiny pack comes with features that you would not expect in view of its size, and it has everything that you need for a day’s hiking, and at home, you will use it in your daily life as an ordinary pack.

In view of the included rain cover, I find the price very reasonable. The rating by customers is exceptionally high. See how I rate it:

Osprey Packs Hikelite 18 Backpack

Volume/weight ratio, features & bonuses.

Great ventilation system.
Very lightweight.
Very versatile pack.
Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee.
No torso adjustment.

BEST PLACEs TO BUY regarding shipping and price:

Bass Pro Amazon

If you need something different, bigger or smaller, please check my page with packs below 35 liters . But see also its bigger cousin from the same series, the Hikelite 26 pack . If you want something ultra-lightweight, check this hydration Gregory Swift 20 Women’s Hydration Pack that comes with a reservoir included.

Thank you for reading. Please use the comment box below if you have any question or comment. Have a nice day.

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Osprey Hikelite Tour 24 Daypack

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All about this product

Technical details, key features, specification, fit/measurements, other features, user reviews ( 28 ).

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Osprey Hikelite Tour 24 Daypack

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All about this product

Technical details, key features, specification, fit/measurements, other features, user reviews ( 28 ), about this brand.

Osprey was born in California, 1974 at the seat of a single sewing machine, with a head full of ideas and a desire to design & build innovative backpacks to the highest quality. Today, Osprey products continue that pioneering spirit, being used on the highest mountains to the remotest islands and everywhere in between.

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Sunday, December 04, 2022

Osprey hikelite 26 pack review.

Article by Jeff Valliere

Osprey Hikelite 26 ( $110)

One Size (but also comes in a 18L and 32L version)

Weight: 1.62 lbs

Volume: 1587 sq/in / 26L

Dimensions: 18.9H X 10.83W X 10.83D IN

Available now

Introduction/Specs/Features

The HikeLite 26 (26 liters) is a versatile, technical hiking pack, perfect day hikes, everyday use and even to my surprise, some light trail running. The HikeLite is chock full of technical features, yet has a simple, minimal, functional, no nonsense design.

Key features :

Integrated rain cover
Trekking pole attachment with upper compression strap capture
Internal hydration sleeve that can accommodate up to a 3L bladder
Sort scratch resistant organization pocket for sunglasses and electronics (with key clip inside)
Stretch mesh side pockets for water bottles or other items
Upper side compression straps
Sternum strap with whistle
Removable hip belt
Outer stuff pocket

The Hikelite has a mesh back panel suspended by a Lightwire frame that allows for very good ventilation, excellent comfort and stable support.

The phone/sunglasses pocket (shown below) is handy and just the right size for keeping smaller essentials organized and I always value a good key clip.

The shoulder straps are thin enough to keep weight down, yet thick enough to keep the pack comfortable and stable when the pack is full and is well ventilated.

The pack cover is handy to have for those unexpected downpours. It is removable if you had a clear forecast and wanted to further streamline or have extra carry capacity.

The side pockets are good for storing additional water bottles or other small items, but keep in mind there is no closure, so I would not put anything too valuable there.

The inner hydration bladder sleeve also is the perfect size for my 13” work laptop, which increases the versatility for me when I travel to the office (in SLC), as I can move quickly through airports without anything flopping around, as the whole package is very tidy and secure.

Pole carry is very easy, plus note the voluminous stuff pocket on the front that is deep and cinches nicely, perfect for quick access items like a jacket.

Fit/Comfort/Performance:

I am 5’9.5” and 145 lbs with a 38.5” chest and this pack fits me very well. While one size “fits all”, I would say that one size fits many. It is perfect for me and fits my wife very well too who is 5’6” /~115 lbs, as well as my 12 year old daughters who are 5’4” / 85 lbs.

When I am wearing, there is a good amount of extra strap to extend, but the pack has an overall feel of being on the small side of the spectrum (something that I really like for me), but could possibly feel too small if you are a larger person. I would suggest trying it on first in person with the clothes you would wear hiking to confirm that this pack will work for you (or perhaps consider the 32L version which will be a bit larger).

Comfort is very good, especially considering the minimal straps and overall minimal nature of this pack. I appreciate this minimalism, although for a dedicated hiking pack where versatility is less important than the focus here, I might look at one of Osprey’s more dedicated hiking packs. Otherwise, the HikeLite is very comfortable for its intended use as a day pack that can double as a day hike pack or travel pack.

Performance is amazing, and especially so for such a light pack, carrying a 26L load so efficiently. Breathability is amazing and the pack feels tidy, compact and stable on the move. While not intended to be a running pack, I have tested it running and it does not bounce and keeps the load close to the body.

Conclusions/Recommendations:

Quality/durability is very good and versatility is key here, as the Hikelite 26 makes for an excellent all around pack. While there are not a lot of organizational pockets or front strap pockets, I value the simplicity and streamlined design, which makes it great for day to day use, travel, day hikes and even some running. Osprey makes a wide variety of packs, so if you have a specific singular focus on any one of the above, I would encourage you to check out their entire line. They make pacsk for every occasion, but for lightweight performance, quality and do it all versatility, especially at a VERY reasonable price, the HikeLite 26 is a top choice.

Camelbak Octane 25 ( RTR Review )

With nearly the same overall carry capacity, I like that the Octane has a variety of front pockets for quick access to phone, food, inReach or whatever you want to store there. The HikeLite however has a Litewire frame and with the mesh panel, is much more supportive and breathable, whereas the Octane can feel “slumpy” when loaded down. HikeLite is a really good value at $110. I would pick the Octane perhaps for longer runs where you need to carry a lot and have more gear within easy reach up front, whereas the HikeLite is better for casual hiking and daily use/travel.

The Hike Lite 26 is avaialbe now

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S amples were provided at no charge for review purposes. RoadTrail Run has affiliate partnerships and may earn commission on products purchased via shopping links in this article . These partnerships do not influence our editorial content. The opinions herein are entirely the authors'

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Osprey Hikelite 26 Review

Lara Dunn has been testing some budget daypacks for hiking, here is her review of the Osprey Hikelite 26

The Hikelite 26 is part of Osprey’s more budget-friendly pared down range, the £100 price point of the Hikelite 26 presents good value for a pack with the Osprey pedigree behind it. It lives up to its name and is incredibly light, yet has all the features you could wish for from a daypack. At 26 litres in capacity it can carry most of what would be needed for a day out in the hills, but perversely isn’t quite as spacious as the on-paper smaller capacity Vaude Skomer 24. It shares the other pack’s single compartment with hydration pocket design, although this pack uses a zip-top opening rather than a lid and clip closure.

Lara Dunn’s verdict

Comfortable
Short waist strap
Zip-top opening makes rain cover crucial in bad weather

There are a huge number of pockets on the Osprey, with a zipped valuables/sunglasses pocket at the top, two huge stretch mesh side pockets for whatever you want to stick in them, plus a roomy and versatile front patch pocket which fastens with the pack’s upper compression straps, making it ideal for storage of all sorts of bits and pieces like a waterproof jacket or fleece when not in use. Two trekking pole loops secure poles well and easily, although you do have to take the pack off to get them out/put them back. The removable rain cover fits neatly into a zipped pocket at the bottom and uses an environmentally friendly treatment for its water repellency.

The shoulder straps are broad, soft and well-enough cushioned to not dig into soft bust tissue, and the shape neatly sits outside the breasts rather than across. The ventilated back system works well at keeping the wearer from overheating, but is sufficiently low profile that it doesn’t interfere with the overall balance of the pack. It’s very stable in wear, which is helped by the addition of a pair of compression straps. If I have a couple of niggles, it’s a – albeit detachable- waist strap that’s not very long, making it unsuitable for larger hikers, and the zipped access at the top does make it easier for rain to get in if there’s a sudden downpour. It’s a comfortable and very capable pack, though.

Tested by Lara Dunn

Lara has worked in outdoors media since the late 90’s as a writer, reviewer, and an editor in her own right across adventure travel and cycling titles. She has hiked, cycled, climbed, scrambled, trekked, ambled, and swum all over the UK and further afield.

Smartwool Women’s Intraknit Active Full Zip Jacket Review

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Osprey Hikelite 28L backpack

Ideal for hiking in any weather conditions, this backpack strikes a balance between being lightweight and remarkably spacious, as well as offering quality features you'd expect from Osprey.

Feels lightweight Fantastic set of features Comfortable

Has a wide silhouette when fully loaded

RRP £120 – or try our deal finder for a good price...

Like Lowe Alpine, Osprey is another brand that’s built an impressive reputation for the quality of its packs over the years.

On test here is the brand’s unisex Hikelite 28, which is designed to be a ‘lightweight hiking backpack’. That tag certainly feels accurate when holding this pack in your hands, with its 990g weight coming as a bit of a surprise given the large list of features and comprehensive back harness.

The other thing I didn’t expect is for its main compartment to feel so cavernous. Osprey says this is a 28L pack, but when loading it up it certainly feels larger.

In fact, it easily swallowed my entire winter kit list including bothy bag and extra layers, so I have no doubt that it’ll offer enough space for any day hike you plan.

It’s easy to pack, too, with the zip opening stretching halfway down each side of the bag. Beyond that, you have additional storage in the form of a stash pouch on the front of the pack, plus a decent-sized zip pocket at the top.

There are also two very large elastic pockets on the side of the bag, both of which will easily take two water bottles each. What’s more, they’re secure, too, and I had no issues with kit falling out of them when bending down.

With a bit of contortion, I found I was also able to grab a bottle out of these pockets while on the move.

Once fully loaded and on my back, I found the Hikelite 28 to be extremely comfortable, with the trampoline-style harness again proving a great asset, especially when it comes to ventilation.

This is a unisex pack and, while you’re not able to slide the shoulder system up and down like you can with the Lowe Alpine AirZone Trek, there are two different sizes you can choose from when buying.

For this 6ft 1in tester, the M/L size fit perfectly, enabling the comfortable hip belt to take the weight in exactly the right place.

There are two handy pockets on the hip belt (one zipped, one elasticated), while other great features include a quality rain cover, a whistle built into the sternum strap and the provision for a hydration reservoir.

You’ll also find attachment points for walking poles, but there’s no dedicated space for an ice axe (though I did manage to stash it securely using a side pocket and compression strap).

One thing that is worth noting is that this pack feels quite wide when loaded up with water bottles, but that shouldn’t be an issue unless you’re scrambling through narrow gaps or passages.

The use of 100% recycled nylon is also great to see.

Verdict : Osprey produces another winner thanks to the well-designed back system, great features and impressive organisation.

Facts at a glance: Osprey Hikelite 28 backpack

Volume : 28L
Rain cover : Yes
Hydration bladder compatible : Yes
Hiking pole attachments : Yes
Whistle : Yes, on sternum strap
Ice axe compatible : No dedicated storage
Weight : 990g (size M/L)

Ready to buy? then try our deal-finder...

Also consider...

Lowe Alpine AirZone Trek 28L

Another option similar to the Osprey Hikelite 28L is the Lowe Alpine AirZone Trek 28L backpack, which offers the same capacity and some great features. There’s a whistle on the sternum strap, well-designed attachment points for an ice axe or walking poles, space for a hydration bladder and an elastic pocket on each side that’s easy to reach while walking and is ideal for water bottles. The padded shoulder and hip straps work well to disperse the load, making this a comfortable option for long hikes.

A fantastic versatile pack with plenty of extra features for comfort and organisation, this model is definitely worth considering for all-weather hiking. For more details, read our full review of the Lowe Alpine AirZone Trek 28L backpack.

Looking for more options? Check out our roundup of the best hiking backpacks to buy in 2023.

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Osprey Hiking Backpack: Hikelite 32 Review

by Lizzy W. | May 1, 2023 | Hiking

If you are someone who enjoys hiking or backpacking on a regular basis, you are likely aware of the significance of owning a backpack that is both dependable and comfortable. A good backpack can make or break your hiking experience, which is why it’s crucial to invest in a high-quality one that suits your needs. The Hikelite 32 backpack from Ospre y is a prime example of why the brand is among the most reliable in the outdoor gear industry. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack, reviewing its design, features, comfort, fit, durability, and overall user experience.

Table of Contents

Simple Yet Effective: Osprey Hiking Backpack Design and Features

Let’s start with the design and features of the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack. At first glance, you’ll notice that the backpack has a sleek and simple design, with minimal exterior pockets and a clean aesthetic. This backpack is designed for day hiking, with a 32-liter capacity that can hold everything you need for a day out on the trails.

The organization system of the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack is particularly noteworthy. The backpack has a front panel shove-it pocket, which is perfect for storing a rain jacket or other quick-access items. It also has a front zippered pocket, which could provide some additional storage space for smaller items like snacks, a map, or a phone. Additionally, the backpack has two side stretch mesh pockets, which can hold water bottles or other items that you want to keep easily accessible.

Inside the backpack, you’ll find a main compartment and a hydration sleeve, which can hold a hydration bladder up to 3 liters in size. The backpack also has an adjustable sternum strap with a rescue whistle, which is a thoughtful safety feature that really adds an extra layer of protection when you’re out on the trails.

Comfort on the Trails: Evaluating the Osprey Hiking Backpack’s Fit and Comfort

Next up, let’s talk about the comfort and fit of the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack. When it comes to backpacks, comfort is key. You want to make sure that the backpack fits well and feels comfortable on your back, especially if you’re carrying a heavy load.

Fortunately, the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack is designed with comfort in mind. The backpack has a mesh-covered back panel, which provides excellent ventilation and helps to prevent your back from getting too sweaty. The backpack features adjustable and padded shoulder straps, which lets you customize the fit to your body for maximum comfort.

One thing to note is that the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack is designed to fit a range of body types, but it may not be the best option if you have a particularly large or small frame. Some users have reported that the backpack doesn’t fit well if you’re shorter than 5’4″ or taller than 6’0″, so keep that in mind when deciding if this backpack is right for you.

Built to Last: Osprey Hiking Backpack’s Durability

Of course, when you’re investing in a backpack, you want to make sure that it’s going to last. Crafted from superior materials, the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack is constructed to endure the rigors of frequent usage.

The backpack is constructed from 100D Nylon Mini Diamond Shadow, which is a lightweight yet durable material that can stand up to rough terrain and heavy use. The zippers on the backpack are also high-quality and durable, so you don’t have to worry about them breaking or getting stuck.

Additionally, Osprey offers a lifetime warranty on all of their backpacks, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your backpack is covered in case of any defects or issues.

Pros and Cons of the Osprey Hiking Backpack: Is it Right for You?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack? Let’s break it down:

Sleek and simple design
Well-organized
Comfortable to wear, with a mesh-covered back panel and padded, adjustable shoulder straps
Durable construction with high-quality materials
Lifetime warranty from Osprey
It may not fit well for those with particularly large or small frames
Limited capacity, which may not be enough for longer hikes or backpacking trips
No built-in rain cover

Overall, the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack is an excellent choice for day hiking and other outdoor activities. Its simple yet effective design, well-organized compartments, and comfortable fit make it a reliable choice for anyone looking for a backpack that can hold all of their essentials.

Overall, we found the Osprey Hikelite backpack to be an excellent choice for multi-day hikes. Its large capacity allowed us to easily pack everything we needed, including food and water for refilling on the go. The backpack’s venting system is especially impressive, keeping us cool and comfortable on even the hottest days.

If you have a small build, you’ll be happy to know that the Osprey Hikelite backpack fits great. However, if you’re taller or have a larger frame, you may want to consider a different option, as this backpack may not be the best fit for you.

One of the standout features of the Osprey Hikelite backpack is its attachment system for hiking poles. We appreciated having the option to easily attach our hiking poles when we needed them without needing to carry them around all the time. While we would have really liked to see more pockets in the backpack, we found the ones that were included to be well-designed and functional.

As with all Osprey products, the Hikelite backpack comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, no matter what the reason or how long you’ve had the product. We found this to be a reassuring factor in our decision to invest in this backpack, and it only added to our overall positive experience.

In terms of features, the Osprey Hikelite backpack has plenty to offer. It has a large capacity that’s perfect for a full day out on the trails, with ample space for storing water bottles and a hydration pack. The sternum strap even has an emergency whistle built-in, which is a nice safety feature to have. The mesh back panel is another standout feature, providing much-needed airflow to keep our backs cool and comfortable.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Osprey Hikelite backpack to anyone needing a reliable and comfortable backpack for their outdoor adventures. Its strong materials, well-designed features, and comfortable fit make it a great investment, especially with the added peace of mind of the satisfaction guarantee.

Hit the Trails with Confidence: The Osprey Hikelite 32 Backpack Delivers Reliable Performance for Day Hiking Adventures

Overall, the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack proves to be an excellent option for those seeking a dependable and comfortable backpack for day hiking and other outdoor pursuits. Although it may not be the most suitable option for extended hikes or backpacking excursions, the Osprey Hikelite 32 backpack is a top performer for day hiking and other outdoor activities.

Whether you’re already an experienced hiker or just starting out, investing in a high-quality backpack like the Osprey Hikelitea 32 can make all the difference in your outdoor adventures. So, pack up your gear and hit the trails with confidence, knowing that you have a reliable and comfortable backpack by your side.

Osprey Manta 24 review: a versatile hydration daypack for serious adventurers

We get technical with osprey’s manta 24, a fully featured daypack that offers plenty of adventure potential.

Alex at Llyn Cau wearing Osprey Manta 24 backpack

Advnture Verdict

A classy hydration daypack that offers serious mountain goers a comfortable carry system for all kinds of day hikes. Its plush and adjustable harness system leads to a well ventilated and barely there carrying sensation, while the myriad storage options chime with hikers who like to be highly organized. It’s weight and more technical features means it’s not a daypack you’d take into town but for the joys of mountain hiking and hill walking days, few packs are better.

Gender-specific fits

Feels premium

Durable, 100% recycled fabrics

Well ventilated back panel

Adjustable harness

Loads of storage options

2.5L reservoir included

Perhaps heavier than it needs to be

More expensive than other daypacks of this capacity

Not compatible with twin ice axes

No integrated safety whistle

You can trust Advnture Our expert reviewers spend days testing and comparing gear so you know how it will perform out in the real world. Find out more about how we test and compare products.

Osprey Manta 24: first impressions

With more daypacks than you can shake a Nordic pole at, even if you’ve decided Osprey are the brand for you, choosing between their offerings is no mean feat. Some of the packs are good all-rounders, while others perform specific tasks beautifully but aren’t quite as versatile.

The Manta (male) and Mira (female) packs are for those looking for a premium, gender-specific hydration day pack that’ll deliver excellent performance and comfort for technical mountain hikes. They include a 2.5-liter hydration bladder as standard and feature quality fabrics and components throughout.

Upon first acquaintance, I kept finding extra zippered compartments and pockets on the Manta. It splits its 24 liters of capacity across 10 different places to put stuff, although this does include both the dedicated hydration compartment and the zippered pouch for the rain cover.

List price: $195 (US) Weight (empty): 1.3kg / 46oz Volume: 24L (34L versions also available, plus women’s 22L and 32L) Size: 56cm x 36cm x 30cm / 22in x 14in x 12in Variations available: Women’s Mira versions also available Back length: 56cm / 22in Materials: Bluesign approved 100% recycled 210D high-tenacity honey comb contrast nylon, DWR treatments made without PFAS Colors: Black, Green Shade, Red Compatibility: Day hiking, light winter walking, scrambling, via ferrata

Nevertheless, all these compartments will appeal to the system-orientated hiker, the sort who likes to have trinkets and tools quickly accessible by virtue of the fact they’re not stuffed on top of each other in the main body of the pack. I’ve got to admit, I quite like this approach. Oh, and there’s an ice axe attachment system too, hinting at the pack’s suitability for light winter use.

So, that’s one side of the pack, what about the harness system. Well, it doesn’t look like a standard daypack from here, with the kind of plush EVA padding and adjustability options I’d expect from a larger pack. Here’s the thing, the Manta’s high end fabrics, premium components and weight-distributing peripheral frame mean that it weighs 1.3kg (46oz) when empty, which is quite a bit for a 24-liter pack. Osprey have clearly gone all out to achieve a pack that hauls medium loads in a supportive and comfortable way.

Alex high on Cadair Idris wearing Osprey Manta 24 backpack

Sustainability in mind

Both the Manta and Mira packs are made with Bluesign approved, 100% recycled fabric. In this case, it’s a hard-wearing 210D honey comb contrast nylon that’s been treated with PFAS-free DWR (durable water repellent). This means it’ll withstand a great deal of abuse, abrasion and assault from the mountain elements. However, it’s not fully waterproof on its own, which is why it comes with a compatible rain cover.

Alex above Llyn y Gader wearing Osprey Manta 24 backpack

A plush, gender specific and highly adjustable harness

Both the male Manta and the female Mira boast a gender specific harness system, that’s fully adjustable for finding that Goldilocks fit. The height of the shoulder straps can be easily adjusted by up to 4 inches thanks to an injection-molded ladder system, while straps at the top and bottom allow finer tuning.

A ventilated, tensioned backpanel holds the pack away from the body, meaning less chance of getting a sweaty back on hot days. Behind all of this is the Manta’s skeleton, a peripheral frame that effectively distributes the weight of the pack to the hip belt. This is important, as all its features and premium materials mean that the Manta is on the heavier side for a daypack of this capacity.

Alex looking down to Llyn y Gader wearing Osprey Manta 24 backpack

With plush EVA padding and wide, spacermesh, the shoulder straps have more in common with some of Osprey’s larger backpacks, such as the Kestrel, rather than most of their daypacks of this size. These features are there to achieve supreme comfort and breathability, whatever the weather.

The hip belt is padded with EVA foam and features a couple of zippered pockets for stashing valuables. A twin strap tightening system allows the wearer to achieve the optimum fit, once buckled up. Upper and lower compression straps bring everything in close for comfort and stability.

Ability and versatility

As mentioned, there are 10 different storage compartments on the Manta. Starting from the top: we’ve got the zippered hydration bladder compartment; the two-way zippered top-loading main compartment; a small, zippered valuables pouch; a sizeable zippered side-access pocket with internal mesh compartment for organisation (so, make that 11 places to put items); an open, stretch mesh front pouch with buckle for added security; two open side mesh pockets; two zippered hip belt pockets; and, last of all, the zippered rain cover compartment at the bottom.

One neat touch is how far down the zips go on the main compartment, giving access to items buried quite far down. I also liked the key clip in the zippered side-access compartment and the easy to grab zip pulls on each and every zipper. The side mesh pockets are also semi-open down one side, which allows dual access, letting you grab a water bottle from the side while hiking, though it also makes them a little less secure than I’d like.

Close-up of Osprey Manta 24 magnetized bite valve

A real selling point of the Manta 24 is that it comes with a compatible 2.5 liter Osprey Hydraulics hydration bladder. You might argue that any old hydration bladder with a tube fits any pack and you’d be right to a point. But in this case, when we say compatible, we really mean it. The bladder clips into its dedicated, zippered compartment for easy hanging, which means it’s always orientated so that there’s water where the bladder feeds the drinking tube. Meanwhile, the tube’s bite-valve has a magnetized section that attaches to the sternum strap, which stops it flapping about as you walk.

As well as the single walking axe attachment, there are ‘stow-on-the-go’ trekking pole attachments too. The compatibility with a single axe means the Manta is suitable for light winter walks, though its low capacity makes it unsuited to bigger winter adventures, while there’s no facility for climbers wielding twin ice tools.

Finally, at the bottom of the pack is the usual zippered rain cover compartment. If, like me, you prefer to keep things dry with internal dry bags rather than an external rain cover, you can leave the cover at home and gain yet another little storage compartment.

In the mountains

I tested the Manta 24 during the same period as I was also testing Osprey’s Hikelite 26 which, although having 2 liters more capacity, is much lighter (800g as opposed to 1.3kg). The Hikelite also feels much smaller and is considerably less pricy. If I was nipping to the shops or grabbing a bag for a casual day hike, there’s no doubt that I'd be reaching for the Hikelite, due to its lightweight feel, street-ready looks and unfussy design.

Alex scrambling wearing Osprey Manta 24 backpack

However, a comparison in the mountains revealed the Manta to be the superior pack for technical trails, compared to the more casual Hikelite. Its superior fabrics make it more resistant to repeated abrasion with rock and vegetation and I can well imagine the Manta lasting for many adventures. It’s harness system effectively spreads the load, while the level of padding ensures comfort throughout the day.

It's the kind of pack that, once I was striding happily along a ridge, I easily forgot I was wearing. It’s got a lovely, wrap around feel to it and, once adjusted properly and with the compression straps deployed, really feels like a part of me, which is what I’m after for technical mountain days.

Alex wearing Osprey Manta 24 and Llyn Cau

The magnetic closure and bite valve attachment on the sternum strap is an interesting feature. It takes a little bit of trial and error to find the sweet spot that means the magnets latch properly. If there’s too much of a bend in the tube, the magnetic force is overpowered by gravity and the tube flops off. However, once I’d mastered the length of tube needed, it worked perfectly well. Gimmick or gamechanger, I’m not sure yet. However, it has replaced Osprey’s usual integrated safety whistle and I know which feature I’d rather have in an emergency.

I enjoyed working out systems that employed all the Manta's various storage options. Items like headlamps , maps, compasses, snacks and gels all had their own place and, once I was in tune with my system, it meant I was able to find things quickly when I needed to. However, I’d have preferred the side mesh pockets not to be open on one side, as it was easy for items to fall out if I wasn’t careful.

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Alex is a freelance adventure writer and mountain leader with an insatiable passion for the mountains. A Cumbrian born and bred, his native English Lake District has a special place in his heart, though he is at least equally happy in North Wales, the Scottish Highlands or the European Alps. Through his hiking, mountaineering, climbing and trail running adventures, Alex aims to inspire others to get outdoors. He's the former President of the London Mountaineering Club, is training to become a winter mountain leader, looking to finally finish bagging all the Wainwright fells of the Lake District and is always keen to head to the 4,000-meter peaks of the Alps. www.alexfoxfield.com

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Osprey Stratos 24 Daypack Review

Comfortable and feature-rich, osprey’s premium daypack is an excellent companion for hauling a full day's worth of gear.

Osprey Stratos 24 daypack (hiking in Utah)

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Osprey Stratos 24

Price: $140 Weight: 2 lbs. 12 oz. Capacities: 24, 26, 34, 36, 50L What we like: Extremely comfortable and supportive; fantastic back ventilation. What we don’t: Pricey and heavy for its capacity. See the Osprey Stratos 24 See the Women's Sirrus 24

Osprey is a leader in the pack market, and their Stratos line is an all-around favorite for day hiking. We’ve owned multiple variations over the years, and all have delivered nearly flawless performance through extended, rough use. We’ve been testing the latest Stratos 24 since its release in 2017 and have been very happy overall. It carries heavy loads comfortably, keeps your back ventilated with its suspended mesh panel, and has tons of pockets and features for organization. Below we break down our experiences with the Stratos 24. To see how it stacks up to the competition, see our article on the best daypacks .

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Osprey Hikelite 26 Backpack Review

I have utilized this backpack on several hikes, spanning distances of 6 to 20 miles, including some trail runs. The backpack is durable and exceptionally comfortable throughout these excursions. I chose the Osprey Hikelite 26, because of its relatively small volume and my loyalty to the brand. However, the Osprey Hikelite 26 backpack is designed for day hikes.

Despite this, I will still give you an objective test. My companion tested it during our week of hiking. My objective in these test articles is not to push you towards consumption but to tell you about the equipment I use to help you make your choice if you need to replace your equipment.

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Technical Description:

Material: Polyester
Weight: 1.62 pounds
Dimensions: 19 in long x 11 x 11 in.
Volume: 26 liters (also available in 18 and 32 L)
Reservoir: 3L (sold separately)
Size: One size
Compact and lightweight
Excellent back support
Carrying comfort
Rain cover included
Trekking pole attachment
Pocket could be anti-scratch
Small capacity

Carrying Comfort

The first thing that struck me when I grabbed the Osprey Hikelite 26 backpack was its lightness, only 1.62 pounds. So yes, of course, I had chosen it for that, but really, it’s stunning. Then carried on oneself, we greatly appreciate the comfort of the straps, a foam inserted in a breathable mesh.

To complete it all, the backpack is structured by a very light metal frame that prevents it from sagging and transfers the weight to the hips. To adjust the body, there is an abdominal strap and a vertically removable chest strap. Two others on the straps make it possible to flatten the top of the backpack well on the shoulders.

Osprey Hikelite 26 Backpack Comfort Level

In summer hiking, we sweat a lot. And, like its Exos model , Osprey has ingeniously equipped its Hikelite 26 model with a back net. This system, called AirSpeed™, offers great ventilation capacity (maintaining a ventilated space between the bag and the back) as well as great comfort. Because the stretched mesh like a trampoline adapts to the shape of the body without pressing.

Accessorizing

If Osprey has succeeded in making a light backpack, the brand has not neglected technicality. The 100D Mini Diamond Shadow nylon canvas appears very resistant to abrasion and any snags.

On the outside of the bag, there is a multitude of useful details: a whistle on the chest strap, four straps on each side to compress the bag at the top and bottom when it is not full, two loops for poles, a waterproof cover in its zipped pocket at the bottom…

In terms of the pockets, the Osprey Hikelite 26 backpack is equipped with a front pocket for everything place a windbreaker for example, and two large extendable side nets which are suitable for a one-liter bottle of water, an IGN map, a tripod, biscuits or a bag of seeds…).

On the upper part, there is also a relatively “ anti-scratch pocket ” to store your glasses, smartphone, and compact camera. There is also another inside micro-pocket with a clip to accommodate your keys.

Having said that, I do have a few reservations. The concept of placing a metal keychain in the same location as one’s glasses leaves me somewhat skeptical, particularly considering the limited size of the compartment, which lacks a zipper or closure. Perhaps another pocket should have been made inside for keys and wallet like on the Kamber .

Another small remark, this pocket tends to swing inside when the backpack is not full. This perhaps deserves a few additional fixing points. Well then, I quibbled a bit, had to find something to complain about…

Interior Space

A large double-zip closure opens on three quarters of the bag, (2/3 of the height), which is very practical for getting in and out and looking for things. The interior volume of 26 liters is fully open to place all its contents for a day hike. You can take a jacket, a snack, and some hiking gear including a helmet.

For more minimalist hikers, the 18-liter model will be perfect . An internal location is however specifically reserved to accommodate a water pocket of up to 3 liters. The hose then comes out through a hole and can be attached to the strap loops, on the side you prefer.

Osprey Hikelite 26 Backpack Interior Space

The Verdict

Osprey is a high-end outdoor brand and the prices displayed are in line with its positioning, but the quality is there. I did not find any weak points except its relatively high price. I am very satisfied with the Osprey Hikelite 26 backpack ! With a light and very comfortable design, it is very functional with everything you need to adjust and store. It can be your best companion for day trips, especially in summer when the heat requires increased ventilation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How versatile is the osprey hikelite 26 for different activities.

The backpack is highly versatile, suitable for day hikes, mountain hikes, and even for college students. Its lightweight design and breathable mesh back panel make it ideal for various activities.

How well does the Osprey Hikelite 26 perform during mountain hikes with a full load?

The backpack is comfortable when loaded with a full water bladder, snacks, a change of clothes, and a small first aid kit. The frame keeps it off the back, and the mesh allows airflow to prevent overheating.

Is the Osprey Hikelite 26 suitable for day trips to the pool or park with kids?

While the backpack is not specifically designed for such purposes, it lacks pouches and general space for loading various items for family outings. It’s primarily intended for hiking but may not be the ideal choice for outings with kids.

How does the Osprey Hikelite 26 handle when the water bladder is drained during a hike?

When the water bladder is drained, the pack’s comfort level decreases slightly, and the shoulder straps tend to float up around the neck. Unhooking the waist buckle helped alleviate this issue but resulted in increased bounce during downhill hikes.

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Osprey Hikelite Review (Is It The Ultimate Hiking Backpack?)

Specifications

Hikelite Is Very Lightweight

AirSpeed Mesh Backpanel

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Mose Hayward

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Osprey Hikelite 18 Backpack – Review Of A New Series

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Sunday, December 04, 2022

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Osprey Hikelite 26 Review

Lara Dunn has been testing some budget daypacks for hiking, here is her review of the Osprey Hikelite 26

Lara Dunn’s verdict

Tested by Lara Dunn

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