Traveling light does make everything easier. You can say goodbye to spending extra minutes (or sometimes hours) waiting on your luggage and you don’t have to suffer from back pain anymore! However, most common backpacks already weigh about half of your stuff. Picking one of those will take away all those privileges we mentioned earlier. To avoid this, you need to equip yourself with one of the best ultralight backpacks. And lucky for you, we have compiled the best 13 in this article!
How To Choose The Best Ultralight Backpacks
Choosing a backpack is as important as choosing a house. It’s where your precious belongings will live the entire travel time! And believe it or not, there are so many types of backpacks out there. They even have hiking backpacks for dogs. See, even our four-legged friends pick the best backpacks, so you should too! If you don’t know what to look for, here’s some information to help you:
Material
What makes lightweight backpacks lightweight are the materials. Most of them use nylon, which is the lightest common material for bags. Some may offer polyester materials instead but keep in mind that nylon is mostly lighter than any material out there.
Size
Even the best ultralight backpacks don’t usually go over 30 liters of volume. So, it’s suitable only for those who travel light. And don’t choose a bag just because it’s the lightest. Take a look at the size, material, and features. Usually, the lighter the bag, the smaller and fewer compartments it offers. You need to decide which one is more important to you: weight or organization.
Durability
With such weight and size, keep in mind that most ultralight backpacks are less durable than common backpacks, especially if you’re planning on loading them with a lot of stuff often. It’s not that the bag is bad in quality, it’s just not meant for heavy loads. As we mentioned before, this type of backpacks is suitable for those who travel light. Besides, most of these bags are not as sturdy, so it takes more effort and strategy in packing. No worries, though! They usually come with packing suggestions. Do pay attention to that!
Ultimate Direction Fastpack 25
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Ultimate Direction Fastpack 25 supports your daily and sports activities. It offers a comfortable vest-like fit on your body. With 1.34lbs (608 gr) of weight, this bag is one of the best ultralight backpacks you can choose. However, it’s only available in one color, Graphite.
The 20-liter main compartment is waterproof. It also features a waterproof roll-top closure and a waterproof zip at the top rear to protect your stuff inside. It features 2 large side pockets that can hold large water bottles or storage. MonoRip Mesh makes the backpack strong, breathable, non-stretch, and hydrophobic. It’s also equipped with a seamless back panel that provides airflow to keep your back dry.
What We Love
It’s simple and durable.
Pros:
- Weighs only 1.34lbs
- Waterproof main compartment
- MonoRip Mesh
Cons:
- Not suitable for running or hiking on a hot day
Mountaintop 40L
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This affordable, durable, and convenient backpack is perfect for many activities. Mountaintop 40L gives you a lot of space for your gear and accessories. Many hooks, pockets, straps, and other features are available in this pack. The material and zippers are waterproof. But in case those are not enough, it comes with a waterproof cover. It weighs 2lbs (907 gr) only. And it comes in various colors, including black, blue, dark red, fuchsia, gray, khaki, orange, and sky blue.
It has several pockets, which can accommodate your belongings. One of them is the front pocket with an inner mesh pouch, so you can keep your stuff organized. If you’re planning to use it for work or study, you can use the main compartment to store a laptop up to 17”. It features S-shaped shoulder straps that prevent blisters when carrying a heavy load. It also has a breathable back panel with molded foam, which allows air to circulate and avoid heavy sweating. There’s a hip belt that fits from 25 to 53 inches. This will protect your lower back from the weight.
What We Love
Perfect for digital nomads who cannot go anywhere without their laptop!
Pros:
- Waterproof materials, including the zippers
- Can fit up to 17” laptop
- Breathable back panel
- Sleek colors
Cons:
- There’s no top/bottom separation for storage, so everything would just fall to the bottom of each compartment.
Deuter Speed Lite 20
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If you’re looking for a spacious and lightweight backpack, Deuter Speed Lite 20 might be the one for you. It delivers optimal comfort and performance. And it offers enormous freedom of movement for many sporting activities such as climbing, running, skiing, hiking, and cycling. It weighs 1.1lb (499 gr) only and has 20 liters of capacity. It’s available in four colors: Black, Petrol/Arctic, Cranberry/Maroon, and Bay/Midnight.
With the zippered closure, so you can open and close the main compartment easily. There are small pockets on each side of the pack for a water bottle or umbrella. More features are also added, including a minimal frame structure with padded back paneling which is equipped with the ventilated 3D-Air Mesh. This provides comfort. And the flexible Delrin U-frame stabilizes and distributes load weight for maximum comfort on your shoulder and back.
What We Love
It’s suitable for both daily wear and sporting activities.
Pros:
- Weighs 1.1lb only
- Ventilated 3D-Air Mesh in the back panel
- Flexible Delrin U-frame makes carrying heavy loads easier
Cons:
- Not durable enough to carry heavy loads often
Venture Pal Packable Lightweight Backpack 25L
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The next one on our list of best ultralight backpacks is affordable and multi-purpose. Venture Pal 25 is ideal for daily activities. But, you can also have this pack for outdoor activities such as hiking, traveling, and bicycling. It allows you to store, carry, and organize your belongings comfortably. It weighs only 0.7lbs (317 gr) and can easily fold into a small pocket. So, you can fit it into your luggage. Unfold it back anytime you need it!
With 25 liters of storage, it features multi-compartments. It will help you keep your stuff organized. The main zipped-compartment has enough space for your bigger belongings. One zipped front pocket is also available for your smaller items. In addition, there are two side pockets for a water bottle or umbrella. It’s made of high-quality tear and water-resistant nylon fabric. The breathable shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry. There’s also a chest clip with whistle buckle. This helps distribute the pack’s weight and keeps it steady and centered on your back.
What We Love
It’s a well-balanced backpack.
Pros:
- Super lightweight, even among the best ultralight backpacks
- Multi compartments
- Tear and water-resistant
- Foldable
Cons:
- Straps are not so durable for heavy packing
The North Face Vault
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Riding a bike, commuting to work daily, hiking, or traveling, you need a reliable backpack. The North Face Vault is the right size and weight for those activities. It weighs 1.59lbs (721 gr) and carries up to 28 liters. It offers many colors, including Clear Lake Blue, TNF Black 1, and Urban Navy.
The backpack is equipped with a Flex Vent suspension system for maximum support and ventilation. It will give you comfort even through a long hike. It has two main compartments, middle and front. The main compartment has a special floating padded sleeve that can fit a 15” laptop. The front compartment offers a secure zippered pocket for internal organization. You can also store your tablet, smartphone, or portable charger in this pocket. And the two side pockets are perfect for water bottles.
What We Love
It’s reliable even for daily wear.
Pros:
- Flex Vent suspension system
- A floating padded sleeve for your 15” laptop
- Secure zippered pocket inside
Cons:
- Not suitable for traveling heavy.
Sea to Summit Flow 35L
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If you work, live, or traveling to places where rain is inevitable, Sea To Summit Flow 35 is ideal for you. Whether you’ll use it for day hikes, bike commuting, light travel, or sports, this backpack will suit you. With 35 liters of capacity and 2.11lbs (957 gr) of weight, it’s easy to carry around. It’s available in three colors: Black, Royal Blue, and Yellow.
This product features TPU laminated, 420D Nylon fabrics. These make this backpack super waterproof and lightweight. It has a large main compartment with a waterproof zipper. You can fit plenty of your belongings such as a laptop, water bottle, snack, and a few layers of clothes. And the waterproof zipper keeps the water out. For drinking, there’s an external zippered pocket that can be refilled without having to open the main compartment. With Durable 7075 Aircraft alloy buckles and a large top handle, you can lift the bag comfortably. It also features an adjustable padded shoulder harness and removable waist belt. So you’ll feel comfortable when carrying the pack even when it’s full.
What We Love
It offers enough volume for both daily wear and hiking.
Pros:
- Waterproof nylon fabrics
- Waterproof zipper
- Water compartment can be accessed from outside
Cons:
- Need thicker support, especially for long walks
Outlander 20L
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With a stylish look, the packable go-anywhere Outlander 20L backpack is for super-minimalists. This ultralight and durable backpack weighs about 0.5lbs (226 gr). But don’t underestimate its 20L capacity. It can fit your four-days-worth of items. This foldable backpack is perfect for both day-to-day use and occasional travel. And you can fit it into any of your luggage or suitcase. Match the color with your luggage sets: red, blue, pink, purple, and many more.
Never worry about getting wet with this backpack. It’s made of super rip and water-resistant nylon fabric. And the fabric provides strength and long-lasting performance. It also uses durable 2-way Abrasion Resistant SBS Metal Zippers. Plus, with mesh shoulder straps and back panel, it provides comfort and breathability. If you’re planning to go hiking, you can use its single tool/trekking pole attachment. It’s also equipped with a removable webbing waist belt and YKK zippers.
What We Love
Foldable and fit in any luggage.
Pros:
- Weighing 0.5lbs only
- Minimalist yet stylish
- Water-resistant
- Good for light hiking
Cons:
- A little on the pricey side
Outdoor Products Arrowhead Mammoth Internal Frame Technical Backpack
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Great for multi-day adventures and a single day outing, this backpack is nothing but lovable. Let’s start with the material. Outdoor Products Arrowhead Backpack is made of durable polyester fabric. Unlike some, even the best ultralight backpacks, it offers 47.8 liters of capacity! That’s twice as big. And there are plenty of pockets and storage options for your belongings. Weighing 2.14lbs (971 gr) makes this backpack lightweight for its size. And it’s available in four colors: Black/Griffin, Pumpkin, Sky Captain, and Griffin.
There are two handles, one at the top and one in the front. In fact, it can be converted to a duffle bag. Put your belongings in the spacious main storage, with zipper compartments to organize your most important stuff. And there are two large zippered side pockets for easy access. It also has a top drawstring closure and a dual-buckled top to secure your things inside. With hip belt and sternum strap, you will get enough support when carrying a heavy load. In addition, a cool mesh padded back provides airflow to keep your back dry for extra comfort.
What We Love
It’s big and can be converted into a duffle bag.
Pros:
- 47.8 liters in size
- Two handles for easy carrying
- Zipper compartments inside the main compartment
Cons:
- Straps may not be suitable for tall people
Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
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Spoiler alert! This is not the only best ultralight backpacks from Osprey you will see on this list. Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack is great for traveling and backpacking. For your daily activities such as work or study, you can pack your laptop, books, and documents neatly. It’s a durable bag with tight seams and strong materials. The compartments are equipped with smooth zippers, so you can easily open and close. Weighing at 20 oz. (566 gr), it’s super lightweight than most backpacks with the same material. And it offers 20 liters of capacity. It’s available in several color options, including Black, Tahoe Blue, and Primrose Yellow.
It has a large main compartment that features a protective padded interior sleeve. This way, your laptops or tablets can be packed safely. The front panel pocket is great to keep smaller items. And your water bottle will fit the side pockets nicely. The back panel has mesh-covered-die-cut foam. It makes the backpack comfortable and breathable. No more sweaty back!
What We Love
It’s also good as a laptop backpack, thanks to its padded sleeve.
Pros:
- Front panel pocket is a great addition
- Smooth zippers
- Strong materials make it durable
Cons:
- Shallow outer organizer pocket.
PUMA Men’s Evercat Contender 3.0
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This is a stylish backpack designed for people of all ages. Puma Men’s Evercat Contender 3.0 is suitable for men, women, and even teenagers. Whenever you’re planning for outdoor activities, this backpack is the perfect companion for you. Weighing 2.8lbs (580 gr), it takes away the burden off your shoulder. And you can choose any color you like!
The backpack is made of water-resistant polyester, so your stuff will be protected from raindrops. It also offers a spacious main compartment with 25 liters of volume with a space for your laptop. In addition to that, you can put your accessories in the inner pockets. Your smartphone, notes, and keys can have their own slots. No more worrying about getting thirsty while on the go. You can bring a water bottle and put it in one of the two mesh pockets on each side. The bag also has dual adjustable shoulder straps and padded back panel. These two provide comfort to your back, neck, and shoulder even when carrying a fully loaded bag.
What We Love
It’s suitable for all ages.
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Inner pockets for organizing
- Padded back panel
Cons:
- Not so durable
Osprey Packs Talon 22
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This is one of the best ultralight backpacks for both daily and outdoor activities. Osprey Packs Talon 22 is made for active people like you. It’s designed with lightweight construction and nylon material. There are two sizes available that you can choose: S/M or M/L. The S/M size is only 1.68lbs (762 gr) with 20 liters of volume. While the M/L size is about 1.78lbs (810 gr) with 22 liters of volume. You can also choose the color you like: Black, Martian Red, Ultramarine Blue, or Yerba Green.
This backpack features a main zippered compartment. You can use the side mesh pockets for water bottles or snacks. It’s also equipped with AirScape back panel, which makes the backpack comfortable and breathable whenever you carry it. Either you go for a hike or ride a bike, there are attachments to accommodate your helmet or trekking pole. It also features BioStretch harness and continuous wrap hip-belt. So when you carry it, the backpack will stay just right on your back.
What We Love
Not only good for hiking activities, but also for day-to-day wear.
Pros:
- AirScape back panel provides comfortable and breathable back
- BioStretch harness keeps the backpack tight to your back
- Two size options available
Cons:
- No inside pockets for better organizing.
HIKPRO 20L
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There are plenty of options for affordable yet best ultralight backpacks in the market these days. But HIKPRO 20L is one of the best choices. Let us tell you why. This backpack is super lightweight and durable. Weighing only 7.5 oz. (213 gr), you can fold it into any overnight bag or suitcase to use it later for sightseeing, camping, or hiking trips. It will be useful for everyone, from travelers, hikers, to students. And it’s available in six colorful colors.
It offers 20 liters of volume, so you can carry plenty of stuff inside. There are several pockets, including the main pocket, outer pocket, and inner zippered pocket. You can also find two large mesh side pockets, useful for water bottle or umbrella. The HIKPRO 20L is made with high-quality water-resistant nylon material. This keeps your stuff dry for 40 minutes – 1 hour under the rain. And it features comfortable, wide, and breathable mesh shoulder straps for your comfort.
What We Love
Waterproof for up to one hour under pouring rain.
Pros:
- Super lightweight
- High-quality nylon material
- Foldable
- Comfortable and breathable mesh shoulder straps
Cons:
- Not suitable for traveling heavy.
Arc’teryx Brize 25
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For those who prefer simplicity, Arc’teryx Brize 25 is worth considering. Besides, it’s simple, comfortable, and lightweight. You’ll love it for daily travel or hike since it can fit 25 liters of stuff. It has four compression straps: two on each side. Weighing 32 oz. (907.2 gr), makes it super lightweight! You can choose from three colors available: Black, Paradigm, and Bushwhack.
The backpack provides one main compartment, internal zipped pocket, and side pockets. The main compartment has a zip with a key clip, so you can access it easily. No more digging around! And the side pockets can carry 1-liter bottles or trekking poles. It features shoulder straps, waist belt, and back panel. The gentle contouring and generous padding keep your shoulders comfortable. The mesh and molded foam on the back give ventilation. That’s what you need on a hot day. It provides evaporation and keeps your back dry.
What We Love
Good quality padding and ventilation on the back.
Pros:
- Weighing less than 1 kilogram
- Big side pockets
- Comfortable on the shoulders
Cons:
- Nothing, it’s overall one of the best ultralight backpacks available these days
