10 Best Lightweight Backpacks For Hiking [2025]
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Finding the best lightweight backpacks for hiking can feel like a daunting task, especially with the overwhelming array of options available on the market today. With countless brands and features to consider, it’s easy to feel lost in the search for the perfect pack that meets your specific needs. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the wrong backpack can lead to discomfort on the trail, making your outdoor adventures less enjoyable. The right choice hinges on various factors, including size, weight, durability, and how well it fits your gear and body.
To simplify your search, we meticulously examined hundreds of lightweight backpacks, taking into account expert reviews, user feedback, and performance in real hiking conditions. After careful consideration, we shortlisted 10 products that stand out in terms of functionality, comfort, and value. This curated list not only saves you time but also helps you avoid the hassle of sifting through countless models, ensuring you find the perfect lightweight backpack for your next hiking adventure.
Top 10 Lightweight Backpacks For Hiking In The Market
Best Lightweight Backpacks For Hiking Review
- 0.5 POUNDS OF PORTABLE ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT PACKABLE BACKPACK: The size of the travel backpack packable is 17.71 x5.5x 10.6 inches,and the folding size is 6.7 x 6.7 x 1.97 inches.The lightweight foldable backpack is an ideal luggage bag for a plane.When it is not used,fold it into a compact pocket (sandwiches size).It can be stored in anywhere in pockets,luggage,handbags,etc
- 20L ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT FOLDABLE BACKPACK: Our packable hiking backpack water resistant capacity is 20L,the pocket distribution is reasonable,and items are stored in an orderly manner.The main bag is stored clothings,and tourist guidelines in inner partitions.One front bag stores small equipment such as mobile phones,mobile power supply,and two side bags store umbrellas,water bottles or sunglasses.Our small foldable backpack meets the needs of carrying lightweight items
- QUALITY ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT PACKABLE BACKPACKS: Our ultralight foldable backpack are nylon materials for water resistant and tear resistance,and the water resistant performance is good (note:≠completely waterproof).We use double-layered wear-resistant new processes to strengthen the suture of the small packable backpack.A zipper made from two-way SBS metal and high-quality resin materials to avoid the zipper is stuck.The smooth zipper can give you a good sense of experience
- ELABORATE DESIGN: Our ultra lightweight foldable backpack adopts the latest back design to effectively reduce the pressure of the shoulders;According to ergonomic design,it can meet different people,old people.Anti-light strip is designed at the front bag zipper and two side bags,which play a protective role during the night walk
- GET THE AWARD-WINNING ZOMAKE ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT FOLDABLE BACKPACK: With the light performance and high quality of our ZOMAKE ultra lightweight backpack,we have provided high-quality services to 500,000 people in the world and received praise from many people.I believe that our light foldable backpack will be the perfect partner in your life.You can accompany you on foot,vacation,shopping,cycling,and exercise!
- 【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.
- High-Quality Material:Hiking backpack is made of high quality rip-stop 210d nylon fabric,which is water resistant,tear resistant,anti-scratch and wear resistant. Furthermore,we also give away a rain cover with a clear silver reflective logo. It is putted in the little pocket under the backpack. So it is no doubt that all your things will keep dry during rain. Just take this outdoor backpack,no matter the weather.
- Ergonomic and Comfortable Design:Thicker padded back with ergonomic breathable design paired with adjustable, breathable and padded shoulder help to reduce fatigue during a long day of hiking. The hiking daypack comes with an ergonomic ring handle,which is labor-saving and durable. The adjustable chest buckle works perfectly to distribute the pack’s weight and keep it steady and centered. And chest buckle designed as a survival whistle for quick and easy use in case of emergency.
- Large Capacity & Multi Compartment: Maelstrom Hiking Daypack provides several pockets for handy storage and convenient organization. Spacious backpack packed with roomy zipper main compartment, 1 top pocket, 3 front zipper pocket, 2 waist zipper pockets and 2 mesh side pockets.In addition,one waterproof wet pocket is added to the main compartment to better separate sweaty clothes or other personal things after swimming or taking exercise.
- Unique Function Design:The camping backpack is printed with reflective signs to remind safety. The sides of the backpack have elastic and fasteners that can hold two sets of trekking sticks or adjust the webbing according to needs. There is a headphone hole on the top of the backpack for you to enjoy music. There is a Velcro to fix the water bag liner in the main bag and a water pipe hole on the top side of the backpack to assemble the water bag system.
- LIGHTWEIGHT -- Easy to carry:The 40L hiking backpack is lightweight and it’s breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help to relieve the stress from your shoulder. The large capacity of 40L provides enough space for outdoor travel,camping,hiking and fishing. It meet size requirements for most airlines. This camping backpack can be used as hiking backpack, travel bags and business bag,which is suitable for men and women.
- 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
- Lightweight: The lightweight packable backpack is about half the weight of a mobile phone, being folded into its inner pocket for storage and easy to open when needed. Unfolded size: 15.9 x 9.6 x 22.4 inches, folded size is only 4.9 x 3.9 x 7.8 inches
- Waterproof & Durability: The Waterproof backpack is made of waterproof fabric, IPX4: This rating offers protection against splashes of water, making them suitable for workouts or light rain. Heavy duty upgraded zippers and enhanced major stress points provide long-lasting durability against daily activities
- Large Capacity & Multiple Compartments: Hiking backpack with 45L capacity and 3 compartments. Featured a wet compartment for separating dry and wet items
- Survival Whistle: Equipped with a survival whistle on the shoulder strap, it is an essential item for your survival in dangerous outdoor situations
- Tips: Before traveling, you can put this bag in your pocket or suitcase, and when you buy more goods on the way, this large-capacity foldable airplane backpack will show its value
- 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.
- LIGHTWEIGHT — The hydration backpack is only 0.73lb/333.5g. Made of waterproof and anti-scratch oxford fabric. Durable and portable water backpack. Enough to get you through a day of hiking, cycling, running or biking
- CONTAIN WATER BLADDER — Zavothy hydration pack backpack with 2L water reservoir. The bladder is BPA-free and anti-leak guaranteed. Stay hydrated in any time without taking an extra water bottle. Convenient and frees up your hands
- LESS PRESSURE TO BACK AND SHOULDER — The backside of the hydration backpack is designed with breathable Y shape soft air mesh. Combining with length-adjustable shoulder gird. Minimize pressure, less tiredness, comfier
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL — The mountain bike backpack can easily store a bike helmet.Practical for daily running exercise, biking, or short-distance hiking
- ZAVOTHY assures you that our high-quality hydration backpack will exceed your expectations! We are committed to providing you with a superior product. However, if you find yourself less than fully satisfied with your purchase, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team is here to address any concerns and ensure your happiness
- Large opening for easy cleaning: CHERAINTI 2l hydration bladder has one of large opening; and the big opening makes for easy pouring of water; It is also fairly wide for a hand or bottle brush easily access to the interior water bladder for hiking backpack; The screw on cap goes on and off easily; for cold water, simply add ice cubes directly from a scoop or refrigerator ice dispenser;the smooth inner of water reservoir promotes health and is easy to clean
- Premium quality: The whole hydration bladder is made of premium material; CHERAINTI water reservoir won’t leave a bad taste in your drink; the water bladder 2l passed pneumatic pressure test, it is pressure-tolerant; double sealing side technique has greatly improved durability hydration pack bladder
- Remain hydrated: This hydration bladder 2L can withstand temperatures from 20 to 50 degrees Celsius; the tube resists temperature changes in hot and cold weathers. L 14.2'' x W 6.8'' water bladder is compatible with most hydration pack; the tube, 0.4” diameter and 40” long, provides a wholesome flow for easy drinking, keeping you hydrated when Camping, biking, cycling, hiking, or running
- Well-sealing water bladder: You won't be slowed down with our high flow bite-valve; simply bite the mouthpiece to suck water; Soft mouthpiece with easily accessible ON/OFF valve; it also has a cover to keep dirt out; conveniently control the water flow by biting; quick-release tube is detachable; while the tube is removed, the connnector automatically shut off and the hydration bladder will stay filled; store neatly in fridge/icebox without tangling hose
- Quick after-sales service: We take all customer’s satisfaction seriously; if questions with CHERAINTI water bladder for hiking backpack, please let us know
- ❤【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.
- Lightweight and Built To Last: Our 10l hiking backpack is designed to be both lightweight and sturdy, weighing just 0.3 kg (0.66 lbs). Made from tear and wear resistant polyester, the small travel daypack offers a robust build with dimensions of 15.7 x 10.2 x 4.3 inches. The customized smooth zippers and reinforced stitching on the shoulder straps and handle provide long-lasting reliability, making the small backpack men suitable for daily use and outdoor adventures
- Foldable and Easy to Carry: The 10l packable backpack can be folded into a compact size, allowing it to fit effortlessly into your car trunk, suitcase, or drawer. Small hiking backpack's foldable design adds a layer of convenience, making it good for those who need a reliable bag that doesn't take up much space when not in use
- Spacious and Organized: With a capacity of 10 liters, this small lightweight backpack features multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized. The slim backpack includes a hidden back zipper pocket for secure storage, and 2 side pockets each 6.5 inches high, suitable for holding a water bottle or an umbrella. This thoughtful design provides ample space and easy access to your hiking/travel essentials
- Thoughtful Details: Designed with user comfort and safety in mind, our foldable day backpack includes reflective strips for increased visibility in low-light conditions, smooth zippers for easy opening and closing, and a sturdy handle for easy carrying. Every detail is crafted to enhance your experience and provide convenience
- Multi-Scene Usage: This small hiking daypack is suitable for a wide range of activities, including day hikes, day trips, daily commutes, city explorations, and park visits. Its adaptable design makes it an excellent backup bag, ready to meet your needs in various scenarios
Bottom Line
In conclusion, finding the best lightweight backpacks for hiking can significantly enhance your outdoor experience, making your adventures more enjoyable and less burdensome. We carefully selected these 10 products based on a combination of factors such as weight, comfort, durability, storage capacity, and user reviews. Our team spent hours researching and testing various models to ensure that we present only the most reliable options available on the market today. Each backpack on our list has been vetted to meet the diverse needs of hikers, whether you’re planning a day hike or a longer trek.
By following our list of the best lightweight backpacks for hiking, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements and preferences. Investing in one of these top-rated backpacks will not only reduce the strain on your back but also enhance your overall hiking experience. We hope that this guide helps you find the perfect companion for all your future outdoor adventures, allowing you to focus on the beauty of nature rather than the weight on your shoulders. Happy hiking!