By William 2023Welcome to the spectacular event of the wildebeest calving season, an awe-inspiring spectacle orchestrated by nature herself. Williamson...
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By William 2023
Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, stands as an iconic destination for climbers seeking adventure and breathtaking views. As you embark on this challenging journey, one crucial element that can significantly enhance your experience is choosing the right daypack. A well-designed daypack not only ensures your comfort but also keeps your essential gear organized and protected. In this article, we will explore the top 10 daypacks that are perfect for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, enabling you to make an informed decision for your expedition.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Daypack:
Before diving into the list, it’s essential to understand the key factors to consider when selecting a daypack for Mount Kilimanjaro:
Weight and capacity: opt for lightweight packs that can accommodate your necessary gear without adding unnecessary bulk.
Comfort and adjustability: Look for well-padded back panels, shoulder straps, and hip belts to distribute weight evenly and minimize discomfort during long hikes.
Durability and weather resistance: Ensure your daypack is made from durable materials and offers weather resistance to protect your belongings from the elements
Quick Recommendations
Check out this quick list of the best daypacks, or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorites with in-depth reviews.
What’s Most Important to You in a Hiking Daypack?
PRICE – A high-quality daypack can be expensive, but it’s worth the cost to get a pack that’s comfortable, has useful pockets, and is durable enough to last for years. We recommend spending a bit more if you’re able as it will be cheaper than replacing a worn-out or inconvenient daypack in the long run.
Best budget hiking daypacks
Best mid-range daypacks
Best high-end daypack
Capacity – For short day hikes on well-established trails, a lightweight minimalist pack with a capacity around 20L may be all you need. If you’re a peak bagger, in an area with unpredictable weather, or you like spending long days on the trail, you’ll likely want a pack with more support and capacity (30-40L).
Best daypacks for short day hikes
Best daypacks for long day hikes
WEIGHT – When you’re just out for the day, weight isn’t as big of a concern and you can pack along a few extra luxuries. That said, we still recommend keeping your load as light as possible to reduce strain on your muscles and joints.
Sometimes your adventure will call for heavier/bulkier gear, like when you’re heading deeper into the backcountry, traveling over snow, or carrying equipment for summiting mountains. If this describes the majority of your hiking trips, you should consider one of the more supportive daypacks below.
Best ultralight daypacks
Most supportive daypacks
1. Osprey Talon 22 & Tempest 20
BEST DAYPACK OVERALL FOR COMFORT & FUNCTIONALITY
MSRP: $160
WEIGHT: (L/XL) 2 lb. 0.6 oz. / (M/L) 1 lb. 14.6 oz.
CAPACITY: 22L / 20L
PROS: Comfortable, padded/ventilated back panel, supportive, good organization, large/convenient opening for main compartment, helmet clip for commuting, good value, durable, external hydration sleeve, plus size available
CONS: Heavier than some, a bit expensive
BOTTOM LINE: The Osprey Talon 22 (men’s) and Tempest 20 (women’s) are two of our all-time favorite daypacks due to their exceptional comfort and versatility. With cushy hipbelts, padded shoulder straps, and ventilated back panels, these packs form nicely to the body and ride comfortably on the trail.
The Talon and Tempest are suitable for a wide array of activities – they have plenty of room for a full-day hiking adventure, convenient storage compartments to keep you organized on trail or around town, and a bike helmet attachment for using them as commuter bags. They’re also the only daypacks on our list that have an exterior hydration sleeve. This design makes it far easier to check how much water you have left and refill your reservoir since you don’t have to pull all of your other gear out to access an internal sleeve.
While the price of the Talon and Tempest are on the higher end for daypacks, Osprey is known for producing high-quality backpacks and these two are no exception. We think they’re worth every penny if you’re after a do-it-all workhorse that can take you from forest paths to city streets.
2. REI Flash 22
BEST ULTRALIGHT BUDGET DAYPACK
MSRP: $60
WEIGHT: 14 oz.
CAPACITY: 22L
PROS: Affordable, ultralight, good organization for a minimal design, removable hipbelt, comfortable, packable, plenty of color & pattern choices
CONS: Not as supportive as some
BOTTOM LINE: We’re not kidding when we say hardly a day goes by where we don’t see at least one person rocking an REI Flash 22 on trail or around town. This daypack is incredibly popular due to its affordable price, ultralight design, and smart pocket layout. On top of that, it’s offered in a wide variety of colors and patterns to show off your personal style.
You can use them all the time for everything from short hikes where you don’t need to pack a lot of extras to quick grocery runs. For full-day adventures, you may want a pack with a more substantial hip-belt and carrying capacity. But often find that a small pack like the Flash 22 is all you really need.
Despite its minimal structure, the Flash 22 is surprisingly comfortable and convenient. The water bottle holsters are easy to reach, the zippered pocket on the top lid is perfect for storing small items we need often, and there’s enough structure in the back panel and hip belt to feel comfortable for long periods. We love this little daypack and we think you will too.
3. Gregory Citro 24 H20 & Juno 24 H20
BEST HYDRATION DAYPACK FOR HIKING
MSRP: $170
WEIGHT: 2 lbs. / 1 lb. 15 oz.
CAPACITY: 24L
PROS: Hydration bladder included, very comfortable, supportive, transfers weight to hips well, good organization, large/convenient opening for main compartment, durable, plus size available
CONS: Heavier than some, expensive (but includes a water bladder), side pockets are tight for wide bottles
BOTTOM LINE: The Gregory Citro 24 H20 (men’s) and Juno 24 H20 (women’s) are our favorite hydration packs overall because they have just enough support to transfer weight to your hips for a very comfortable carry. But they’re still relatively light and streamlined compared to other daypacks with a similar capacity – especially when you consider the fact that they include a hydration bladder.
They have a ton of useful pockets including large and small zippered compartments, hipbelt pockets, and a stretchy front mesh pocket to name a few. We tend to prefer daypacks with zippered main compartments like this – as opposed to backpacks with the drawstring and top lid design – since they’re quicker and easier to get in and out of.
And of course, we can’t forget about the hydration reservoir. The Citro and Juno come with one of the best hydration bladders out there, the Gregory 3D Hydro. We’re big fans of this reservoir because it’s durable and exceptionally easy to keep fresh and clean.
If you prefer to use water bottles, we also love the Citro 24 and Juno 24, which cost a little less and come without the bladder.
4. Deuter Speed Lite 21
EXCELLENT BALANCE OF SIMPLICITY & SUPPORT
MSRP: $80
WEIGHT: 15.2 oz.
CAPACITY: 20L
PROS: Affordable, durable, comfortable, ultralight, padded back panel, removable hipbelt, large/convenient opening for the main compartment, good ventilation
CONS: The front stash pocket is somewhat inconvenient to access
BOTTOM LINE: The Deuter Speed Lite 21 is comparable in size, shape, and comfort to the REI Flash 22, but it features more padding and better durability. It’s a fairly simple pack, but the lightweight design is perfect for short hikes where you’re only taking a few essentials.
The Speed Lite comes with a basic removable hip belt to keep your load stable when scrambling, and the mesh back panel provides ample ventilation for when things start to heat up. Overall, the storage design of the Speed Lite with its large main pocket, but the front stash pocket is a bit easier to access. The small opening on this mesh pocket keeps gear more secure, but it leaves you having to feel around for items since you can’t easily see inside.
We think the Speed Lite 21 goes toe-to-toe with the Flash 22 for the best small daypack design. If you’re after more durability and cushion, go with the Speed Lite. If ultimate simplicity and low weight is what you want, choose the Flash 22.
5. REI Trail 40
ROOMY PACK THAT’S GREAT FOR TRAVEL & LONG DAY HIKES
MSRP: $129
WEIGHT: 3 lbs.
CAPACITY: 40L
PROS: Excellent pocket organization, large/convenient opening for main compartment, durable, spacious, supportive hipbelt, good value, rain cover included
CONS: Heavy, more room than necessary for short hikes
BOTTOM LINE: The REI Trail 40 (view women’s) is a great choice for those who need one pack that can do it all. This is the roomiest backpack on our list, and it’s also one of the most durable and comfortable.
The supportive hipbelt makes the Trail 40 one of the best options on our list for hikes where you need to carry a little extra weight. The wrap-around zipper on the main compartment makes it easy to pack and access your items when travelling. The Trail 40 can even work as a school backpack because of all the organizational pockets and the padding on the back.
The only reason the Trail 40 didn’t rank higher is because it’s a bit large and heavy for most casual day hikes, but it’s still versatile enough to be practical in many situations. If you’re looking for something smaller – and don’t mind less cushioning – the Trail Pack also comes in a 25L size for men and women.
6. Osprey Stratos 24 & Sirrus 24
SUPPORTIVE & WELL-VENTILATED HIKING DAYPACK FOR LONGER HIKES
MSRP: $180
WEIGHT: 2 lbs. 12 oz. / 2 lbs. 12 oz.
CAPACITY: 24L
PROS: Very comfortable, supportive, transfers weight to hips well, good pocket organization, durable, excellent ventilation, rain cover included
CONS: Expensive, we would prefer a mesh front pocket over the zippered pocket, heavier than some
BOTTOM LINE: The Osprey Stratos 24 (men’s) and Sirrus 24 (women’s) have some of the most comfortable frames of any daypacks we’ve tested, hands down. Their stretch-mesh back panels feel cushy against the back and seamlessly transition into their hipbelts for excellent weight transfer.
These packs have a solid organizational system with convenient gear storage pockets, two hipbelt pockets, and easy-to-reach water bottle holsters. We’re not the biggest fans of the zippered front panel pocket, as we find stretch mesh to be more accessible. But many hikers will love this zippered design because it keeps items more secure.
Featuring Osprey’s popular Airspeed suspension system, The Stratos 24 and Sirrus 24 are exceptionally comfortable and well-ventilated daypacks built for extended adventures. If you need extra support for carrying heavier loads, these backpacks are going to be tough to beat.
7. Six Moon Designs Wy’east
ULTRALIGHT PACK FOR LONG DAY HIKES & QUICK OVERNIGHTS
MSRP: $155
WEIGHT: 1 lb. 9 oz.
CAPACITY: 30L
PROS: Ultralight, frame is a removable sit pad, shoulder strap pockets, roomy, durable, affordable for the specs, highly water-resistant
CONS: Wide shoulder straps don’t sit well on all body types, more room than necessary for short hikes
BOTTOM LINE: The Six Moon Designs Wy’east is one of the lightest daypacks we’ve tested with this much capacity, and it’s loaded with convenient features. This pack is great for long hikes when you need to carry bulky items, and it can even work as an overnight bag for those with truly ultralight setups.
The Wy’east comes with two useful shoulder strap pockets and the frame doubles as a foam sit pad. Our one gripe with this bag is that the shoulder straps are a bit wide, so it’s not a great fit for those with narrow shoulders or small frames.
For a 30L daypack, the Wy’east is quite affordable, especially considering how light it is and that it’s highly water-resistant. Ultralight hikers looking for the perfect go-between for big mile day hikes and short overnights can’t go wrong with the Wy’east.
8. Osprey Daylite Plus
AFFORDABLE DAYPACK WITH A MINIMAL BUT FUNCTIONAL DESIGN
MSRP: $75
WEIGHT: 1 lb. 5 oz.
CAPACITY: 20L
PROS: Affordable, ultralight, removable hipbelt, compatible as an accessory with several Osprey backpacking & travel backpacks
CONS: Not as supportive as some, pockets aren’t as convenient
BOTTOM LINE: The Osprey Daylite Plus is a simple, sleek, and affordable daypack that’s a great option for use around town or on short hikes with light loads.
One of the coolest and most unexpected uses for this pack is its compatibility with several Osprey backpacking packs and travel bags. It can clip onto the Aether/Ariel from our Best Backpacking Backpacks list or the Farpoint/Fairview and Porter from our Best Travel Backpacks list, so you can leave your full bag behind while the Daylite carries daily essentials. Another feature that makes the Daylite Plus versatile is the internal padded sleeve that can be used for a hydration bladder while hiking, or a laptop when commuting.
The Daylite Plus doesn’t have many of the bells and whistles we find most convenient about the packs that’re higher on this list. But if you’re after something affordable that comes in handy when you just need to carry the bare necessities, the Daylite Plus is a solid choice.
9. Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil
ULTRALIGHT & PACKABLE DAYPACK FOR SHORT HIKES
MSRP: $45
WEIGHT: 2.5 oz.
CAPACITY: 20L
PROS: Ultralight, very compact (folds to about the size of a Clif Bar), affordable
CONS: Less durable than others, only has one pocket, no structure, can be uncomfortable if not packed well
BOTTOM LINE: The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil daypack is a different type of backpack than the others on this list – it’s essentially a nylon stuff sack with a zipper and two shoulder straps. This simple design isn’t great for long days on the trail, but it’s very convenient for travel and short hikes.
The Ultra-Sil’s best assets are how lightweight and compressible it is. This makes it easy to throw in a large suitcase or backpack when heading out on longer trips. You can then deploy this little pack when you want to leave the rest of your gear behind for a bit.
The Ultra-Sil only has one pocket and no frame, so packing it carefully is a must for comfort. We usually put a clothing layer inside the pack against our back for cushioning, and it works great. This little pack is simple, but it’s also highly packable and very useful. If you keep the load light, you’ll hardly notice it on your back.
10. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak
HIGHLY WEATHER-RESISTANT & DURABLE HIKING DAYPACK
MSRP: $229
WEIGHT: 1 lb. 4.3 oz.
CAPACITY: 23L
PROS: Ultralight, highly water-resistant, durable, large/convenient opening for main compartment, supportive/stashable hipbelt, high-quality materials/construction
CONS: Expensive, no hydration bladder pocket
BOTTOM LINE: The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak is a tough, ultralight daypack built for a full day on the trail if your gear needs are minimal. Though not fully waterproof, the Daybreak is the most weather-resistant pack on this list and will shed moderate precipitation with ease.
The Daybreak is so expensive because it’s made of DCH, but that’s also what makes it so light, durable, and weather-worthy. Though it’s listed at 23L, the Daybreak feels roomier than that. The massive front pocket provides quick access to extra layers in areas where weather can change quickly, and the main compartment opens wide for convenient storage of other essentials.
Though the cost of this pack will be prohibitive for some, the Daybreak is a well-constructed, tough-as-nails ultralight daypack.
In conclusion, selecting the right daypack for your Kilimanjaro adventure is crucial for a comfortable and successful climb. The best Kilimanjaro daypacks should be lightweight, durable, and designed for optimal functionality. They should have enough capacity to carry your essentials, including water, snacks, extra layers, and personal items, while also providing easy access and organization. Additionally, adjustable straps, a padded back panel, and breathable materials contribute to overall comfort during long hikes. Remember to consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing a daypack, and always prioritize quality and reliability. With the right daypack by your side, you’ll be well-equipped to conquer the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro.
William is a Tanzanian Safari and Kilimanjaro expert motivated to write about his Safari and Kilimanjaro Trekking experience because of his passion for adventures. Through his stories and articles, William sought to inspire others to experience the thrill of adventure and to appreciate the beauty of Africa around them.
LCF201309072023-08-307-Day Migration Safari with Williamson: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience! My friend and I had a 7-day migration safari (River Crossing) with Williamson Adventures exceeded our expectations. The captivating sights of wildebeest herds were absolutely breathtaking, a true testament to the wonders of nature. Our knowledgeable guide Raymond made the experience even more remarkable with his deep understanding of the wildlife and their behaviors. The seamless combination of the safari with a day trip to Materuni Waterfall and Coffee Tour added a perfect touch of cultural immersion. The lush greenery and the thundering waterfall were a sight to behold, and the coffee tour was enlightening. Williamson's team orchestrated a flawless journey, ensuring comfort and safety throughout. This safari was a life-changing experience, and I'm incredibly grateful to William and his team for making it so exceptional.Vi_X2023-08-30Unforgettable experience in Tanzania The Ultimate Tanzanian Safari and Cultural Experience! I can't thank Williamson enough for the incredible 7-day migration safari adventure. Witnessing the Great Migration in person was an awe-inspiring spectacle, and Raymond Our Guide added an educational layer that deepened our appreciation. His passion for wildlife is contagious! The highlight was coupling this safari with a day trip to Materuni Waterfall and Coffee Tour. The waterfall's beauty left us speechless, and the coffee tour was a delightful insight into the local culture. The Accommodation during our safari experience was top notch, thank you William for organizing our trip and his team was amazing! I am going to miss Tanzania ❤️ # one of my best trip ever # amazing travel experiences # lots laughs & fun during the trip # unforgettable momentsEdson B2023-07-23Incredible Safari in Tanzania We did a 5 day Incredible honeymoon safari with Williamson Adventures , we were researching good company for our safari It is our luck to go with them the communication was smooth, we exchanged so many texts until we reached the conclusion . The guide Allan was knowledgeable who knows alot about animals and plants his driving skill was exceptional on the rough road on the way to Serengeti national park , The accommodations were good during our safari we will recommend Williamson Adventures to our family and friends .Juliane P2023-07-21Kilimanjaro 6 days Machame route My dad and I booked the Kilimanjaro 6 days Machame route and since the first contact with William I received all the information and help that we need and our conversation was easy. Our team at the Kilimanjaro hike was really friendly and helpful and our guides were perfect with us! Cannot recommend more I and have no words to thank enough all the team.Ellen Karin R2023-03-19Er du interessert i fugleliv såvel som dyreliv prøver du Williamssons adventures med Ian som guide Er du interessert i fugleliv i tillegg til dyreliv bør du be om å få Ian som guide. Han var kunnskapsrik om både fugler, dyr, fauna og stoppa opp på alle henstillinger og svarte tålmodig på alle spørsmål. Ian var også ein flink sjåfør. Vi var i alle nasjonalparkene, Tarangire, Serengeti, Manyara og Ngorogoro conservation area. Vi var på en fire dagers safari, og lunsjboksene, frokostene og middagene var fantastiske. Likeså med overnattingsstedene. Vi ble tatt vel i mot og tatt vare på. Denne safari er ett minne for livet, og kan anbefales på det sterkeste. I tillegg til kjempemange fugler og dyr fikk vi også sett alle fem store????Jessica D2023-02-06Perfect Kilimanjaro trek, perfect safari, perfect Guide From the first day of emailing Williamson Adventures for a safari and Kilimanjaro quote we were answered in professional way with full of information about the tour in Tanzania.The Director William was helpful and well organized our Kilimanjaro trek and 5 days safari , we started hiking for 6 days machame , the team was very helpful and the porter were strong and friends they really supported us to carry our luggages and guide was very professional especially during the summit day we really appreciate them . After safari we went to safari where we saw many animals excluding rhino because the guide explained that they're now endangered sometimes it's hard to spot them although it was good experience, the food good and accommodation was superb with high comfortability. Thanks Williamson Adventures for making our trip unforgettableNorbet h2023-02-02Kilimanjaro Climb Experience! My husband and I booked 7 days Machame route Kilimanjaro mountain climb with Williamson adventures, we liked the experience from the day we started hiking up to last day at mweka camp. The tour was very organized and the team was extremely friendly . During the summit Day it's was really challenging for me but the guide and porter was really helpful and fun to be around , the food was delicious and plentiful so we really appreciate our chef , the tent were top quality and brand new so we slept in comfortable tents . I really recommend Mr William to arrange your Kilimanjaro mountain trekking if you wish to make it to the top of Kilimanjaro mountain. Best wishes from USAChristensen H2023-01-31Unforgettable safari in Tanzania My Safari experience in Tanzania with Williamson adventures was really good since from the day we emailed them they were very cooperative , we had 8 days safari in Tanzania with them the guide was very detailed about Flora and fauna of Tanzania national park, I really liked Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater the most because of its scenic views and abundant of Animals, we managed to see all the big 5 during safari, the accommodations was nice and clean, we really thanks this company for making our journey in Tanzania unforgettableHannah P2023-01-29Best Wildlife Safari I did a 7-day safari in Tanzania and it was an unforgettable experience. The tour guide was knowledgeable about the wildlife, making each game drive a learning adventure. From the endless plain Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Crater, every stop was awe-inspiring. The accommodations and food were good and provided the perfect balance of comfort and immersion in nature. I would highly recommend to Williamson to plan your safari in tanzania . Thanks Williamson Adventurures for the nice hospitalitywillegamba942023-01-257 day Kilimanjaro Climb Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro 7 days Lemosho was an experience of a lifetime. The trek to the summit was challenging, but the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment made it all worth it. The scenery was absolutely stunning, from the lush rainforest at the base to the barren, lunar-like landscape at the summit. The guides were knowledgeable and supportive, and the porters were incredibly helpful in carrying our gear. The final summit push was grueling, but the sunrise from the top was truly unforgettable. Despite the physical demands, I would highly recommend Williamson Adventures for Kilimanjaro climb to anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The sense of camaraderie among the climbers, the challenge of reaching the summit and the stunning beauty of the mountain made it an experience I will never forget.
We are committed to responsible tourism and strive to minimize the impact of our safaris on the environment and local communities.
We strive to offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. We ensure our clients receive the best possible prices for our safari experience.
We have a team of highly experienced safari experts who have extensive knowledge of the wildlife and ecosystems of the areas we operate in.
