10 Best Hiking Small Backpacks [2025]

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Finding the best hiking small backpacks can often feel like an overwhelming task, especially with the plethora of options available on the market today. With varying designs, sizes, materials, and features, selecting the right backpack to fit your specific needs can quickly turn into a daunting endeavor. Whether you’re a casual day hiker or a more experienced explorer, the right pack can make all the difference in your outdoor experience. Searching through endless reviews and specifications can consume valuable time and lead to confusion, leaving you unsure of which choice is truly the best for you.

To alleviate this hassle, we have meticulously researched and shortlisted ten of the best hiking small backpacks that cater to a variety of preferences and requirements. Our team has analyzed user feedback, expert reviews, and product specifications to identify the standout options that combine functionality, comfort, and style. By presenting this curated list, we aim to save you time and effort in your quest for the perfect backpack, ensuring that you can focus more on your adventures and less on the shopping process. Dive in to discover the ideal companion for your hiking journeys!

Top 10 Hiking Small Backpacks In The Market

Best Hiking Small Backpacks Review

Bestseller No. 1
SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack - 15L Travel Daypack Lightweight Bag Water...
  • Convenient and Functional: Our small hiking backpack has multiple compartments and pockets, providing comfortable and convenient hiking experience while carrying all the travel backpack for a day on the trails. The small backpack men has an ample storage space for water bladder and tube, allowing you to stay hydrated on the go
  • Comfortable and Breathable: To keep your back cool during your hiking activity, our small backpack women features a multi-slot breathable back panel and shoulder straps that are also specially designed to distribute weight and reduce pressure on your shoulders
  • Adjustable and Removable Straps: The adjustable chest and waist straps of small backpack women make it easy to adjust to your body shape, providing stability and support while you are going hiking. These straps of back pack men are also removable, making it more flexible for different occasions
  • Sturdy and Safe: Made of durable materials, our hiking backpack men are water resistant, tear resistant, and equipped with SBS zippers. It also has reflective spots that increase visibility during nighttime hiking, ensuring your safety
  • Versatile: The Lantc 15L travel backpack is a must-have for outdoor activities, such as hiking, running, traveling and cycling. As a 15l backpack, it is also suitable as carrying on bag for airplane, keeping your hands free while airline boarding
Bestseller No. 2
SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack, 20L Lightweight Travel Backpacks Hiking Daypack...
  • WATER-RESISTANT AND STURDY MATERIAL: SKYSPER 20l Hiking Backpack is made of high-density 600D polyester and 210D nylon plaid fabric, which is impermeable, water-resistant, tear resistant and wear-resistant. All of the backpack's stress points and shoulder straps are reinforced with lap-knots to ensure long lasting durability
  • ERGONOMIC AND LIGHTWEIGHT: 10.3 x 7.4 x 16.9 inches, 1.1 lbs. The breathable grooved carrying system keeps your back comfortable and relaxed during travel. Breathable mesh on the back fabric can reduce sweating for extra comfort. Our backpacks are designed so that you can lighten the burden on your back during a hiking or a trip. The reflective design also increases visibility, making it safer at night
  • UNIQUE APPEARANCE AND SAFETY DESIGN: The small hiking backpack features multiple compartments and an anti-theft zipper to prevent important documents and items from being stolen. The small daypack comes with an outdoor emergency rescue guide providing additional safety information for lovers of the outdoors. The LANTC20 backpack is the perfect combination of function and fashion, with a simple and smooth design featuring yellow webbing on the front panel and contrasting embroidery
  • ADJUSTABLE AND REMOVABLE STRAP SYSTEM: The hiking daypack is designed to have convenient trekking pole fixtures. Open front-end plugins can also be adapted to different hiking gear and multi-functional extensions. The 20L backpack also features detachable straps and an adjustable chest strap, allowing it to meet the requirements of a variety of situations. It comes with safety whistle, making it the perfect hiking backpack for outdoor activities
  • WIDELY USED: The women hiking day pack is good for a comfortable overseas plane trip, day city excursion, day hiking, weekend getaway and daily use,etc. It is perfect for short hikes, work-home commutes and doing errands. The day hike backpack is the perfect combination of function and fashion, with a simple and smooth design
Bestseller No. 3
SKYSPER Foldable Hiking Backpack - 10L Small Lightweight Daypack Breathable...
  • High-quality & Ultra-light: Weight only 0.6LB, this small hiking backpack constructed with high-quality, water-resistant nylon fabric, keeping your belongings safe and dry whether you're hiking, traveling, or commuting. This foldable hiking backpack is lightweight but long-lasting
  • Multi-compartmnet: Featuring 4 spacious zippered compartments and a front elastic bungee cord system, this breathable backpack offers ample room and organized storage for all your essentials. Easily access and secure your gear, from electronics to clothing, making everything safe and has its place
  • Compact & Convenient: Designed for maximum convenience, the small packable bag folds into its own pocket, transforming into an ultra-compact size that’s perfect for storage in any suitcase or drawer. Take it anywhere and unfold it whenever you need extra carrying capacity
  • Adjustable & Breathable: Equipped with breathable and adjustable mesh shoulder straps, this small hiking backpack provides superior comfort and support. The ergonomic design ensures weight distribution, reducing strain sweat on your shoulders and back during your journeys
  • Versatile & Stylish: Whether you're an avid traveler or someone who loves outdoor adventures, this small lightweight foldable backpack suits every occasion. Its sleek design and functional features make it the perfect companion for any lifestyle
Bestseller No. 4
CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Kids Hydration Backpack for Hiking and Biking - 50oz,...
  • Stretch Overflow pocket: Gives you more space to pack all of your exploring essentials, PLUS any little goodies and gems you find along the trail.
  • Integrated Tool Organization: A place for everything and everything in its place. Keep all of your favorite things handy and well-organized.
  • Secure Zippered Pocket: Making sure your most special of treasures are safe and sound.
  • Ventilated Harness: This cooling harness let's the air hit ya when you're out adventuring.
  • Lightweight and Durable Materials: Go on wild adventures, explore new worlds, get rough and dirty—you'll stay comfortable and your pack won't get ruined.
Bestseller No. 5
G4Free Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack for Men Women Small Hiking Daypacks...
  • Durable: This small hiking backpack is made of high-quality water-resistant and tear-resistant Polyamide material with durable abrasion-resistant SBS zipper, which is able to use for a long time
  • Convenient and Lightweight: This hiking daypack is easy to fold and fit into an ultra-compact pouch. It's convenient to pack in your suitcase, purse, or car as a travel backpack without taking up too much space. Unfold size: 8.27x6.30x13 inches, Ultralight weight: 4.59oz
  • Perfect Companion for Trips: This small daypack for men and women is the perfect companion when you are out. It's handy to hold tissue, cash, credit cards, water bottle, small umbrella and any travel gear you need
  • Keep Things Organized: Foldable hiking backpack has two zippered compartments. The main pocket is large enough to carry travel essentials you need on the trip. The other pocket is great for quick access to items such as cash, credit cards, and passport. Two large sides mesh pockets for water bottles or umbrella
  • Occasions: Suitable for day trips, day hikes, daily walk-around, cycling, cruise, excursions, sports, camping, and shopping
Bestseller No. 6
sunhiker Cycling Hiking Backpack Water Resistant Travel Backpack Lightweight...
  • IMPORTANT PRODUCT IMFORMATIONS: The sunhiker backpack is a small-sized backpack with dimensions of 15.8H x 9.4L x 5.9W inches/40 x 24 x 15 cm, a weight of 12.3 oz, and a capacity of approximately 20-25L. It is suitable for both men and women who prefer a smaller sized backpack and only want to carry essential items while traveling light. This size is also suitable for children above aged 3. Please make sure that it is the size what you need/want before purchasing.
  • ABOUT THE MATERIAL: This hiking backpack is made of Nylon Fabric, which has the following features. 1) Good waterproof performance: After being treated with a waterproof coating, the backpack has a good waterproof effect; 2) Good abrasion resistance: nylon is relatively durable and can withstand wear and tear better than other fabrics of similar products, making it very durable; 3) Good breathability; 4) Lightweight ;5) Easy to clean.
  • DETAILS DETERMINDED QUALITY: We pay attention to every detail for the small backpack: 1) High-quality smooth zipper; 2) Back and shoulder strap design with breathable mesh pad to help reduce the pressure and fatigue caused by prolonged use; 3) Adjustable chest and waist straps for convenience.
  • COMPARTMENT DESIGN: There are total 3 compartments and 2 mesh pockets on both side for this lightweight hike backpack. The main pocket has a computer compartment. The 2 mesh pockets are good for holding water bottles. Its is enough space to neatly organize your essential items.
  • USAGE SCENARIOUS: This day pack backpack is suitable for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, cycling, etc. It is also a good choice for daily use, such as theme parks, travel, etc. Let this backpack accompany you wherever you go.
Bestseller No. 7
SKYSPER 15L Foldable Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Travel Daypack with...
  • Spacious and Organized: Measuring 16.9*10.8*4.7 inches, this 15l hiking backpack features multiple compartments for easy packing and organization. The large main compartment with a wide opening makes it convenient to pack your travel essentials. Additionally, small hiking backpack includes 3 zippered pockets and a hidden back pocket. Two side mesh pockets (7.5 inches high) offer additional storage options for various items
  • Enhanced Comfort with Upgraded Chest Strap: Designed for leisurely hiking, this hiking daypack prioritizes comfort with an added chest strap equipped with a safety whistle. This feature alleviates strain during travel, ensuring stability and reducing the burden on your shoulders
  • Compact and Portable Folding Design: With dimensions of 7.9 * 6.7 inches when folded, this packable backpack emphasizes convenience and the benefits of its foldable design. After folding, the foldable backpack can easily fit into your luggage or car's backseat, serving as a handy backup backpack for your travels
  • Lightweight and Sturdy: Weighing approximately 0.75lb, this lightweight travel backpack boasts a strong polyester fabric that is resistant to abrasion and tearing. The smooth and reliable SBS zippers ensure easy opening and closing, while reinforced handles and stitching provide added durability. These meticulous details contribute to a superior and comfortable user experience
  • Versatile Usage: This lightweight hiking backpack is suitable for a variety of scenarios including leisure activities, travel, day trips, park outings, strolls, and commuting. However, please note that due to factors such as lighting conditions, the actual color of the collapsible backpack may vary slightly
Bestseller No. 8
WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack Sling Bag Travel Hiking Chest Bag Daypack...
  • Keep Everything in Order: Size: 7 x 3.5 x 15 inches (0.6lb). The front zipper bag and buckle bag allow you to store iPad mini, iPhone 7 Plus, power band, etc., with several separate small compartments inside, it can effectively keep your small items like makeup, tissue, keys and so on. The side mesh pocket is 6 inches height, it can hold 2.4 inch(diameter) bottle.
  • Hidden Earphone Hole: There is a hidden earphone hole on the front, providing easy access to your earphones, you can enjoy music anytime and anywhere.
  • Adjustable Reversible Shoulder Strap: Designed with 3 D-rings on the lower part, the adjustable shoulder strap can be connected with the left or right D-ring for your preference, so that it is convenient to wear on your left or right shoulder. The shoulder strap pouch is 3.5 x 1.5 x 7.5 inches (L x W x H), it hold the phone screen size under 7 inches easily. Shoulder strap can be adjusted from 31 ” to 39.5 ”.
  • Superior Material: The shoulder strap and the back is made of breathable material, make you feel comfortable when travel, hiking and so on.And the sling bag is water resistant.
  • 【One Year After-Sales】If you have any problem with broken or damaged items you purchased,please do not hesitate to tell us with your order ID. We will reply and address your issue within one day, so please purchase with confidence.
Bestseller No. 9
Lemuvlt Small Hiking Daypack Rucking Backpack 15L,Lightweight & Durable -Ideal...
  • ❤【SPACIOUS WITH MULTIPLE POCKETS】: This 15L capacity hiking backpack has 5 zippered locations including 2 waist zipper pockets to accommodate a book, phone, keys, snacks, first aid kit, basic essentials needed for day hikes.This small hiking backpack has one open pocket in the center for a bike helmet and two mesh side pockets for mineral water. This water pack still has room for a light jacket after filling up a 3L hydration bladder. NOTE: Bladder is NOT included.
  • ❤【INSULATED AND WELL PADDED】: With an insulated pocket inside, this water bag keeps water nice and cool for 2 to 5 hours even in the heat. With mesh padding for relieving fatigue & ventilation, this water backpack for hiking keeps your pack cool and your back dry.
  • ❤【LIGHT WEIGHT & COMFORTABLE】:This hiking daypack is very light weight.The shoulder straps are well cushioned and distributes the weight evenly.Straps are fully adjustable for shoulders, chest and waist for comfortable fit. The back portion that touches your back is a honeycomb texture, allowing your back to breathe despite having the backpack against your body.
  • ❤【REFLECTIVE & WATER REPELLENT】: The emergency whistle on the chest strap make you easily heard. Safety reflector and luminous logo glowing green light at night make men women easy to seen on the trail.Top quality water resistent ripstop protects the item from getting wet from small rain.NOTE: Only splash proof. Do not get it into water.
  • ❤【PERFECT SIZE FOR DAY HIKE/RIDE】:This hiking backpack/water pack for women men is small enough to be super comfortable and big enough to carry food and water.It is ideal for any sigle day activities, like day hiking, MTB cycling, skiing ,staking, snowboarding, running, hunting, kayaking,rave etc.A great gift for friends and family who enjoy outdoor sports.
Bestseller No. 10
Lightweight Hiking Backpack 40L Packable Daypack for Men Women Waterproof...
  • 【Large Capacity&Multi Compartment】This portable hiking backpack has 40 liters of storage space with a multi-compartment design that includes 1 main zipper compartment, 2 zipper front pockets, 2 side pockets, and a waterproof wet pocket. The pen pocket and slip pockets in the front can help you organize your items more easily. The large capacity backpack helps you to easily storage all your essentials for your outing.
  • 【Foldable & Comfortable】This lightweight trekking backpack only 1 pound, it can fold easily into its own pocket for storage and unfold when needed. Breathable mesh shoulder straps with plenty of foam padding help relieve pressure on the shoulders. The chest buckle is designed as a survival whistle for quick and easy access in an emergency. The chest strap buckle perfectly distributes the weight of the packable hiking backpack and keeps it stable and centered.
  • 【Upgraded Wet Pocket Design】The lightweight hiking backpack stands out with a more user-friendly design that is easy to use. A waterproof wet pocket has been added on the back,and a zipper on the back leads to an internal wet pocket for better separation of sweaty clothes, towels or other personal items after exercise.Effectively separate the items in the water resistant hiking backpack wet and dry.
  • 【Practical Design Backpack】Camping backpack printed with reflective signs,used at night to remind safety or can easily find companions.The side of the camping backpack 40L has elastic straps and fasteners to accommodate trekking poles.The bottom of the backpack has webbing straps to accommodate tents, sleeping mats, placemats and other items, and the length can be adjusted as needed.
  • 【Durable&Waterproof Daypack】This hiking daypack is made of high quality tear-resistant and waterproof nylon fabric with double metal zippers.The center is reinforced at the main stress points to provide long-lasting durability for everyday use.The extra strength provided by the double layer bottom allows you to carry more stuff. A must-have for trekking, hiking, camping and travel.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, selecting the right small backpack for hiking can significantly enhance your outdoor experience, providing comfort, convenience, and durability. Our curated list of the best hiking small backpacks was meticulously compiled through extensive research, hands-on testing, and analysis of user reviews. We evaluated various factors such as size, weight, material, storage capacity, and user comfort to ensure that these products meet the needs of a diverse range of hikers, from casual day trekkers to more seasoned adventurers.

By following our list, you can feel confident in your choice of a small backpack that complements your hiking style and requirements. Each of the ten products we highlighted reflects a balance of functionality and reliability, allowing you to focus on enjoying your hike rather than worrying about your gear. Whether you’re embarking on a short trail or a full day of exploration, investing in one of these best hiking small backpacks will help you stay organized and comfortable on your journey. Happy hiking!