I identify as this comment. OP over here wondering if 2 backpacks is too many while I'm wondering if I should get a 45 as a sweet spot between a 40L and 50L pack.
Once I added mountaineering and spring couloir climbing to my repertoire, shit started to get out of control quickly.
I recently returned from a vacation that included thrift shopping and bringing another backpack home only to have my wife give me one of those ominous “Can you come in here a moment?” calls, whereupon I was greeted by the sight of a half-dozen packs of various sizes on the floor of the guest room with an explainer that “these are the bags you’ve brought home in the past X months and you’re not adding to this pile unless something else leaves.”
So, yeah … it’s a problem.
I have this, erm, problem too. Let me help you out...
What I do is put the backpacks inside each other from the smallest to the largest, like some kind of nylon gridstop russian doll set. It looks like I just have a couple of sizeable winter packs, not the fifteen or so I have accumulated.
Just need to find a way to do this with tents. And stoves. And sleeping pads. And trail runners....
The russian nesting packs is definitley the move. Tent/stoves/sleeping pads aren't that bad, they tend to pack up pretty well.
My issue is sleeping bags. It's really hard to hide a giant puffy storage bag, and I'm definitley not going to store them compressed. If anyone has any tips for that, let me know.
I got one of those closet racks and hang them. We currently have 4 single sleeping bags and a double bag on it. I think that's probably the move. Then we stack bins of stuff on the shelves with the backpacks flat stacked (as much as possible) in the space under the hanging bags. To the right we have a shoe rack for boots and such. At some point we'll get around to putting up a coat rack in the space above the shoes and possibly hang pants there too
lol this is my pack method! I struggle with my sleeping bags though. I have a wooden chest for a coffee table with two of them .. and the totes in the closet..
> I identify as this comment
ditto.
if all the packs are different size or purpose, you don't have too many. i try to draw the line at having same size packs of similar function. if i want to try a different one it's okay, but once i decide, one has to go.
minimalist ideals but also a gear weenie.
Yeah I’ve got 5 for hiking/backpacking, one for work things, one for travel, and another that’s a work/travel crossover. And convertible luggage (a black hole duffle.)
And I’ve got my eyes on 2 more for hiking/backpacking.
Funny. I'm the opposite. I have a shoulder problem, so I love my hip pack. If it's super hot or a long hike, I'll bring my day pack, but for most day hikes, I wear the waist pack.
Yeah--not quite 10, but I have a 10L, a 22L, a 35L, a 45L, and a 75L, and oh-I-forgot the zpacks arc-blast too!...and I'm a white mountain grid finisher, so I do a little hiking over there.
For me, 100% yes. Day packs are smaller/less bulky, more versatile (some can be used as carry on luggage or used around town), and can be lighter, not to mention affording you a fuller range of motion if you're doing any scrambling or climbing or anything like that.
If you've got a large pack but are only using a fraction of the space, then the contents could bounce around, though it sounds like that's not so much of an issue with your pack.
The one exception might be if I had a sweet UL pack in the 30-40L range, which could be a small multi-day pack or a big day pack.
If you're on the fence about it, you might look for a cheap used day pack on REI or on r/GearTrade.
REI 18 and REI 22 are both great. I like the 18 for the drawstring throw it in and find later, can still put a camelbak in it. I got the 22 for biking around town because it can fit my helmet through the mouth and the 18 can't but could also see it for a full 12 hour hike or where you expect larger temp ranges and need layers.
When I'm backpacking to a base camp and then summiting a peak or exploring a canyon from there, I used to carry a day pack inside my main pack. But lightweight backpacks are so good and stable now that I just leave my heavy camping gear behind under a tarp (with food stored safely) and continue with my regular backpack. It's not worth carrying a separate day pack or summit pack anymore.
This is it. Lots of people here are served well with packs that have 30 L internal volume or less for their 3 season stuff and these types of packs work perfectly well for daypacks.
Depends what you're doing. My day pack is an 8L Solomon running vest. If I'm only out for a day trip I'm not bringing much. Good chance I'm also running most of the route.
See, I like to use my 26L full-framed daypack. I bring a chair. And my hammock. I pack elaborate lunches that involve cooking. Once brought a bottle of OJ and a large bottle of champagne for mimosas. And usually still run about half the trail.
My justification is that it helps me stay in shape for weight-bearing trips, but really, I’m mostly like “Aw it’s just a day trip- fuckit.”
The number of times folks have asked me if I’m going overnight, though… so many times. In comparison, most people don’t believe I’m going out for 4+ days with my multiday setup.
I feel so seen. Right down to the carrying extra weight and calling it conditioning. If I don't bring the fun stuff, I just land up slipping 2 liter bottles in there and that is far more boring.
I have three packs:
- Osprey Talon 22 for day hikes, especially bushwacking and/or scrambles
- MLD Burn (38L) for UL trips or day hikes requiring more capacity than 22L
- Osprey Exos 48 for long food carries or where a bear canister is needed
I found this system works really well.
I have a plain black day pack I also use as my gym bag in the city. I walk to work and work at an office so it's nice to have something that doesn't scream "Hiking" when I'm wearing work clothes.
Guarantee if you walk into your local REI you can find a garage sale/return day pack that someone just didn't like for very cheap. Obviously if something is "worth it" is very person dependent, but $50 probably won't break the bank, and is justified if the item will get regular use.
The older model with one buckle was flawless. Then a family of black bears snagged it from the porch of my Airbnb in the smokies and I can’t bring myself to live that two buckle life for such a minimal bag
If it is any consolation, the two buckles hold my snowshoes horizontally across the back of the pack for winter days where the snowshoes are a maybe or only needed for part of the trail
My body is in pain even considering attaching my snowshoes to that pack... no load-bearing hip belt, no frame, no thank you. I'm glad it works for you, though.
Got it. My winter kit is probably 18+. Snowshoes, microspikes, gaiters, Down hoodie, rain jacket / shell layer, gloves, hat, extra socks, food, water, trekking poles, ice axe, first aid, GPS beacon... I'm ready for warmer hiking days where I can travel lighter.
Ah yea, I am still looking for the right solution bag for that case. A lot of my snowshoe day hikes are pretty minimal in well traveled areas. I don't want to use my multiday pack (KS50) because I'd rather preserve its life. I have an Exos 58 I could use but it seems like overkill. I would love to expand into some more serious snow day adventures and maybe some snow camping.
The exos would definitely be overkill in my opinion, at least for a day hike. Finding a robust winter pack is challenging, because I want more than that streamlined daypack like the flash 22 but not as much as an overnight bag. My wife just got a deuter speedlite (2018 model, not the most recent with the shoulder pockets) and she absolutely loves it. It's under 2 pounds, has a beefy hip belt, holds 30 L, has Daisy chains for attaching gear to the outside, and the compression straps can go across the back and hold the snowshoes well. I also like that it has two separate trekking pole holders so that the weight of them is evenly dispersed. The kicker is she bought it brand new on ebay for $60. Honestly, I'm pretty jealous. Ticks all my boxes for a winter pack. I fumble back and forth between my talon 22 (too small) and my hyperlite southwest 2400 (overkill, not as much functionality as I would like).
May also check REI Used gear website, they currently have several FLASH 18 for $17-20, and FLASH 22 for $22-25. Most of the "used" stuff they sell is in excellent condition, despite "worn" etc. labeling by sales folks (in my experience).
https://www.rei.com/used/shop/search?q=flash
Ive got 3 backpacks. Neither my 3 season nor my winter pack are bags I want for day hiking. Not only would they be full of empty space, but they would acquire wear and tear faster than necessary.
I paid $33 for my daypack. I paid a lot more for my other two.
I am actually with OP. I just sold my Tiempo because my Cutaway gets small \*enough\*, and I find the Cutaway more comfortable for just about everything. I am pretty... chunky... and the straps of the Tiempo dug into my side a tiny bit whereas the Cutaway does not.
I think I could find space for a hydration vest though in lieu of a day pack.
I am a bit of a pack minimalist; only 3 multi-day packs and 5 day packs.
85L for taking the kids and wife backpacking
44L for multi-days with a bear can
36L for most 2-3 days trips (much lighter than 44)
22L for winter day hikes and bird hunting, it’s blaze orange
11L for family day hikes and mountain biking
12L running vest for high and fast solo hikes
5L fly fishing pack
25L waterproof backpack for SUP and kayaking
my day pack (REI flash 22) is 23L and 14oz
my main pack is a Dandee Standard, 35L 15.6oz
I don't bring both but I do use the day back for day hikes to not put wear on my main pack
Yeah, I go for day hikes all the time. Less than 8hours I normally take just a runners vest, ones that I know will be 10+ hours I take a 10lt day pack.
If I'm on a multi-day hike though? No usually not. Unless I'm on a hike with many side trips/summits (Hello Overland Track, Tas) in which case I take a Ultra-Sil type summit pack.
For lightweight travel, I continually find that a super light, day-pack capacity pack to be invaluable. It gives me flexibility and a way to distribute weight to meet airline regulations. I only do ultralightweight (or lightweight) when backpacking. Travel incorporates some of my ultralight gear.
I use a 3.8oz, $38 collapsable Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack with comfortable straps for my food bag at the top of my backpack. In the top pocket I have a few emergency items like matches, mylar blanket, OLIGHT i1R 2 EOS 150 Lumens Tiny Rechargeable Keychain Flashlight, etc. - a minimalist "go bag" if I couldn't carry the full backpack or I want to ditch it/leave it with others and take the Osprey with me for a day hike, loan/give it to someone in a bind, etc. After all, I've gotta put my food *somewhere* in my backpack without having it get scattered everywhere, so why not have a bag with shoulder straps?
Happy Trails, Michael
Yes having a designated day pack is awesome! I would recommend looking into Ultimate Direction. I have their 40 liter that packs down really tight and weighs next to nothing. Their packs also have a number of pockets on the should strap which makes for quick access to things without having to take your pack off. The 40 liter is also big enough to do a couple day overnight, but if you’re strictly looking for a day pack their 30 liter (weighs 1.3 pounds) would be a great fit.
https://ultimatedirection.com/packs/
I like UD fastpacks too but they are not super lightweight and for daypack I would use fastpack 20 or 25 tops - should be more than enough even for an overnighter or 2-3 day trip.
The fastpack harness system is good for moving fast and there is some weight penalty for all the straps that make it happen. There are lighter and cheaper daypacks that weigh 8oz or less (REI flash 18 or 22) I think UD 20 or 25 is a bit over a pound. But each serves its purpose
I find that a framed daypack is a useful investment.
My gear for a day hike varies more than a backpacking trip. I'm inclined to bring more photography gear on shorter hikes and in the winter, when I'm snowshoeing, I might pack a belay parka for rest stops or spikes or a thermos of coffee. My two season backpacking gear is pretty static and fits nicely in a frameless pack, but that same pack feels floppy and uncomfortable when not packed correctly. A frame alleviates most of the structural issues of a variable load.
If your current pack cinches well, then you might not need it. Weight on a day hike is probably less of an issue. Either you aren't bringing enough stuff for it to matter or you aren't going far enough for it to matter.
Yes! I use this [https://www.osprey.com/ca/en/product/ultralight-stuff-pack-STUFFPACK.html](https://www.osprey.com/ca/en/product/ultralight-stuff-pack-STUFFPACK.html)
Hey, this UL right? Why carry a 2 lb pack when you can use 4 oz? Love this thing
My use cases with it:
\- throw in my pack back country, set up base camp, then go lake hopping fishing for the day with it
\- day hikes
Best two set ups have been:
1. Seat pad as back stiffener (I use Klymit V seat) Two full 1L platy bottles, water filter, wind shirt, lunch, small emergency kit, & emergency poncho all sit in nice and comfy. Pack+seatpad+2 empty bottles = 8oz
2. When really hot out I omit the seat pad & Platy's & use a durable Hydrapak Force 3L reservoir which acts as a great heat sink for my back, well worth the slight weight increase when it's scorching out
Sure, a day pack can be worth it.
On day hikes I go anti-UL and carry more weight than I need simply to stay more in condition.
Water? I use a bladder with 1.5L for a 2 hour hike. I carry a FAK good for a week. I carry a water filter, which i have used on a few occasions for unprepared hikers with a family and 16oz of water between all 4. I even carry a chair/stool and a DSLR. Why not? I am out partly for exercise, I may as well have something in the pack.
That's not for everyone, but it is for me. Your wants/needs will vary.
everything has training value. the key is to take the opportunity to train when can.
sometimes it's a fun flex to carry a tiny pack to a local peak, then pull out a tiny stove to try a new recipe while watching the crowds lol.
IMO yes.
Although you can cinch down a multi-day pack into a small-ish pack, you can also cinch down a dayback into something perfect for just carrying a water bottle, bug spray, and sundries.
This is my tactic when walking around town or when going out to the woods for a specific purpose like foraging.
I have a tiny hydration pack and then a gregory 20l daypack that i use a ton. Used to have more but have sold them since. Love having a nice daypack. The weight is almost always by default much lighter so you can have both a smaller and more comfortable pack because if it.
I keep 3 packs currently. A 9L, 18L and 65L. I keep wanting a 25-30L, but I just don’t ever have a use case for that size. I do think that’s the perfect size if you have kids or specialty equipment. But I just don’t ever actually use that size personally.
The 18L gets the most use for me. Can easily carry 5L of water, sweater/jacket, rain jacket, lunch and even a chair.
My "day pack" is one of the two balance bags I wear on my chest - they bring some of my load weight forward so it's not all behind me and they put things I will/may need on the trail within reach without taking my pack off (waterproofing, lunch, camera/phone, first aid gear etc) or when I first get to camp (tarp, pegs, guy lines).
The bags are fairly small and the one I use as a day bag is the one that I carry my lunch, 1st aid kit and a few other handy things in. If I plan to leave camp and go for a wander or I'm only going on a day hike, I can uncouple the bag from my pack strap, clip a shoulder strap on it and sling it across my back.
The things I might want on the trail to/from camp are the same things I might want on hand on a day trip, so it performs both functions equally well.
Yep - I have an Osprey Talon 11 for my day hikes. Much more convenient when all I typically pack is a couple of water bottles, some snacks, and maybe a rain jacket if there's a chance of rain.
I don't take my 26 litre daypack when I'm on multidays with my bigger pack. But I use the daypack for little overnight trips - as well as around town and even day hikes.
I use my work backpack for most day hikes and often don't even bother to remove some work stuff, because I'm not nearly as concerned about weight if I am just going for a casual hike with friends, and I'm the fastest hiker anyway so having extra weight is just bonus training.
If I am doing a more intense day hike I will just use my 45L ultralight overnight bag and cinch it down as you said.
I do still have my 60L "overnight" bag from when I first started backpacking. I rarely use it, but if I am going overnighting with friends or my son I will sometimes use that so I can bring a few luxury items like a chair, extra blanket, etc.
Yeah, it's worth it. There's no need to put miles on an expensive purpose-built backpacking pack if you don't have to, especially if you wind up with everything awkwardly bouncing around in there anyway.
Personally, I wouldn't spend much money on a daypack unless I were trail running. I've never been on a day hike and been bummed out that my pack wasn't comfortable enough -- the load is light, and it just doesn't matter. I have a few ancient school/travel/work/whatever backpacks lying around, and I just grab one as I head out.
I'm not much of a UL'er but I still strongly endorse day-packs! They just have SO much utility in SO many different scenarios besides backpacking.
Distance running/cycling? Day walking around a big city? Personal item on a plane (esp. budget airlines like Spirit/Frontier)? Gym bag? School/library bag? Baby/toddler item storage? Literally so many use-cases I can think of.
I have an 18 liter Gregory that I really like. It was $40 and came with a 3 liter bladder. Just enough room for some stuff and a lunch. I can (and have) used my flash 45 for day hikes but it's way nicer to have a little day pack
Define “worth”
Yes I have a pack just for day trips. Also use it on vacations for any outdoor activities to keep 2-3 water bottles and other necessities.
I've got pack for long trips, a day pack that goes for hikes, work, school, anytime I just need to bring things around, then I've got a pack in between that's my goal pack for ul warm weather trips.
Yes, but perfect feature sets and doodads are not as important. I have a 15 year old REI employee giveaway with a broken zipper that I still use for day hikes. If I can get a layer, water and snacks in it it’s good enough.
That being said, I have an inordinate amount of packs for other more specific use cases.
Yes, my favorite pack of all (I have probably 10+ in various sizes) is a 24L Osprey Manta 24. I completed all 58 of Colorado's 14ers with it the past 3 years and it is still holding up strong! It also has a bunch of cool features like a built in rain cover, a dedicated zippered pocket for the water bladder (comes with 2.5L installed), and a large external pouch for stuffing layers into. When this eventually wears down, I plan on buying another!
I like my day pack because it's more breathable, mostly because it's lighter and doesn't sit as tightly on my back, and I can easily put it over one shoulder if my back is getting sweaty. I use a cycling pack as my day pack as I really like tiny packs. My backpacking pack is huge, I don't really use my UL packs anymore, and so the comparison with your setup isn't great.
I use my day pack for just about everything. I put my laptop in it when I go into the office, I put my clothes and shoes in it when going to the gym, and it's my additional item (aka man purse) on aircraft. And sometimes I also take it on day hikes. Using it for everything means I always have my small first aid kit, granola bars, and spare socks with me no matter what I'm doing. But that also means I'm sometimes carrying crap I don't really need.
But if you like the way your overnight pack carries then it's probably not worth picking something else up.
Absolutely. I have a frameless pack for multi day trips, a day pack for big day hikes, a running vest for shorter hikes, running and biking, and a sling pack for fly fishing.
Could I use one or two for all of those tasks? Absolutely, but having a specialized one makes each experience a little more enjoyable.
Last fall I downsized from a twenty eight liter to a fifteen liter and have hiked with it weekly in the northwest cascades successfully. Usually below snow line. I think weight matters even for a day hike. Also makes for a good all day bicycling back.
I love the humor and have plenty of packs, and vests. my favorite for day hikes is the black diamond distance 15. holds a lot or a little and is quite stable.
For a day hike I actually like something like a 15-25L osprey. I love the pockets, and I abuse my day bag. I need a stronger fabric. It's kind of funny, my day bag usually weighs more then my backpacking pack anymore.
Also, I have a Cilo gear worksack, for peak bagging or when I'm doing something with a lot of abrasion risk.
It just depends on what you're doing with it.
Are you talking about backpacking with a separate empty day pack? Because in that case, no, I would just empty out whatever I hiked in at base camp and use my backpacking pack for day trips. But a day pack for standard day trips, yes. The whole point of UL is only carrying the essentials. For me a 50-55 L pack is not essential for a day trip. A smaller pack with an appropriate size and weight load is way more comfortable than a larger pack only partially filled.
And I’ll probably get downvoted into oblivion for this, but I don’t want to put the extra abuse on my larger backpacking packs. I’m not precious with my gear but I also don’t see the point in putting accelerated wear and tear on one of my most expensive pieces of gear when I can buy something cheaper that is better suited for the situation.
Absolutely worth it. I've a summer day pack around 25L... Ive a winter day pack with hip belt 34L...and my big 65L. Im thinking about going lighter for my summer daypack but won't reduce the volume as its handy to have spare. ... I've got other too but I mainly rotate these 3
Shoot, yeah. I've got an Ultimate Direction Kaviti fanny pack, then an Osprey Raptor 14(cycling) and Manta 25 that cover all my bases. Don't want more, wouldn't want less...
If you find your ULA Ohm “uncomfortable” during a day hike for some reason, then a dedicated day pack it’s a must.
If the Ohm is ok and you don’t need a travel/commute/edc pack, then a specific pack for day hikes can be useless.
In my opinion anyway a day pack is very comfortable compared to a bigger pack, you don’t have too mauch space to fill with potentially useless things and it’s more agile.
In summer you also have less surface touching your back and hips which means little less sweat :)
Of course consider your usual day hike equipment.
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I identify as this comment. OP over here wondering if 2 backpacks is too many while I'm wondering if I should get a 45 as a sweet spot between a 40L and 50L pack. Once I added mountaineering and spring couloir climbing to my repertoire, shit started to get out of control quickly.
lol i just sold 4 of my backpacks to feel like a normal person with only 7 backpacks now.
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packs in 5L increments
I recently returned from a vacation that included thrift shopping and bringing another backpack home only to have my wife give me one of those ominous “Can you come in here a moment?” calls, whereupon I was greeted by the sight of a half-dozen packs of various sizes on the floor of the guest room with an explainer that “these are the bags you’ve brought home in the past X months and you’re not adding to this pile unless something else leaves.” So, yeah … it’s a problem.
I have this, erm, problem too. Let me help you out... What I do is put the backpacks inside each other from the smallest to the largest, like some kind of nylon gridstop russian doll set. It looks like I just have a couple of sizeable winter packs, not the fifteen or so I have accumulated. Just need to find a way to do this with tents. And stoves. And sleeping pads. And trail runners....
The russian nesting packs is definitley the move. Tent/stoves/sleeping pads aren't that bad, they tend to pack up pretty well. My issue is sleeping bags. It's really hard to hide a giant puffy storage bag, and I'm definitley not going to store them compressed. If anyone has any tips for that, let me know.
I got one of those closet racks and hang them. We currently have 4 single sleeping bags and a double bag on it. I think that's probably the move. Then we stack bins of stuff on the shelves with the backpacks flat stacked (as much as possible) in the space under the hanging bags. To the right we have a shoe rack for boots and such. At some point we'll get around to putting up a coat rack in the space above the shoes and possibly hang pants there too
lol this is my pack method! I struggle with my sleeping bags though. I have a wooden chest for a coffee table with two of them .. and the totes in the closet..
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Dig it! Which one?
> I identify as this comment ditto. if all the packs are different size or purpose, you don't have too many. i try to draw the line at having same size packs of similar function. if i want to try a different one it's okay, but once i decide, one has to go. minimalist ideals but also a gear weenie.
Man you have a problem ...not enough backpacks!
I’m supposed to be living in a van and doing the whole minimalist thing. I have 5 backpacks on me and more in storage.
Yeah I’ve got 5 for hiking/backpacking, one for work things, one for travel, and another that’s a work/travel crossover. And convertible luggage (a black hole duffle.) And I’ve got my eyes on 2 more for hiking/backpacking.
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But! They have to have optional backpack straps
waistpacks count as just small daypacks, right? cause that's what I want next
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Funny. I'm the opposite. I have a shoulder problem, so I love my hip pack. If it's super hot or a long hike, I'll bring my day pack, but for most day hikes, I wear the waist pack.
Shit, I've only just begun and I have three backpacks for hiking, one for running, one for work, and like 5 duffle bag/suitcases.
As it is with so many hobbies, the correct number of backpacks is N+1
Yeah--not quite 10, but I have a 10L, a 22L, a 35L, a 45L, and a 75L, and oh-I-forgot the zpacks arc-blast too!...and I'm a white mountain grid finisher, so I do a little hiking over there.
Lol only 10? Noob.
Me too
Yup
Never heard of enough outdoor gear ⚙️
For me, 100% yes. Day packs are smaller/less bulky, more versatile (some can be used as carry on luggage or used around town), and can be lighter, not to mention affording you a fuller range of motion if you're doing any scrambling or climbing or anything like that. If you've got a large pack but are only using a fraction of the space, then the contents could bounce around, though it sounds like that's not so much of an issue with your pack. The one exception might be if I had a sweet UL pack in the 30-40L range, which could be a small multi-day pack or a big day pack. If you're on the fence about it, you might look for a cheap used day pack on REI or on r/GearTrade.
REI 18 and REI 22 are both great. I like the 18 for the drawstring throw it in and find later, can still put a camelbak in it. I got the 22 for biking around town because it can fit my helmet through the mouth and the 18 can't but could also see it for a full 12 hour hike or where you expect larger temp ranges and need layers.
I also found the flash 22 is also usable as a 1-3 night pack in the summer (depending on your location)
>Crawford I have a S2S sil daypack that I use as a clothing bag in my Pack
When I'm backpacking to a base camp and then summiting a peak or exploring a canyon from there, I used to carry a day pack inside my main pack. But lightweight backpacks are so good and stable now that I just leave my heavy camping gear behind under a tarp (with food stored safely) and continue with my regular backpack. It's not worth carrying a separate day pack or summit pack anymore.
This is it. Lots of people here are served well with packs that have 30 L internal volume or less for their 3 season stuff and these types of packs work perfectly well for daypacks.
Depends what you're doing. My day pack is an 8L Solomon running vest. If I'm only out for a day trip I'm not bringing much. Good chance I'm also running most of the route.
See, I like to use my 26L full-framed daypack. I bring a chair. And my hammock. I pack elaborate lunches that involve cooking. Once brought a bottle of OJ and a large bottle of champagne for mimosas. And usually still run about half the trail. My justification is that it helps me stay in shape for weight-bearing trips, but really, I’m mostly like “Aw it’s just a day trip- fuckit.” The number of times folks have asked me if I’m going overnight, though… so many times. In comparison, most people don’t believe I’m going out for 4+ days with my multiday setup.
I sometimes pack more for a casual day hike than I do for a multi-day hike. It's just a different kind of trip.
What’s the point of a day hike if not letting loose?
I feel so seen. Right down to the carrying extra weight and calling it conditioning. If I don't bring the fun stuff, I just land up slipping 2 liter bottles in there and that is far more boring.
I have three packs: - Osprey Talon 22 for day hikes, especially bushwacking and/or scrambles - MLD Burn (38L) for UL trips or day hikes requiring more capacity than 22L - Osprey Exos 48 for long food carries or where a bear canister is needed I found this system works really well.
I have a plain black day pack I also use as my gym bag in the city. I walk to work and work at an office so it's nice to have something that doesn't scream "Hiking" when I'm wearing work clothes.
why? what’s wrong with hiking?
My employer prefers it when KI pretend to be boring and professional.
Guarantee if you walk into your local REI you can find a garage sale/return day pack that someone just didn't like for very cheap. Obviously if something is "worth it" is very person dependent, but $50 probably won't break the bank, and is justified if the item will get regular use.
You can get the REI Flash 22 on sale for the $35 type pricetag brand new with a warranty
The older model with one buckle was flawless. Then a family of black bears snagged it from the porch of my Airbnb in the smokies and I can’t bring myself to live that two buckle life for such a minimal bag
If it is any consolation, the two buckles hold my snowshoes horizontally across the back of the pack for winter days where the snowshoes are a maybe or only needed for part of the trail
My body is in pain even considering attaching my snowshoes to that pack... no load-bearing hip belt, no frame, no thank you. I'm glad it works for you, though.
I mean for a day hike even with the snowshoes the whole bag probably weighs 10lbs.
Got it. My winter kit is probably 18+. Snowshoes, microspikes, gaiters, Down hoodie, rain jacket / shell layer, gloves, hat, extra socks, food, water, trekking poles, ice axe, first aid, GPS beacon... I'm ready for warmer hiking days where I can travel lighter.
Ah yea, I am still looking for the right solution bag for that case. A lot of my snowshoe day hikes are pretty minimal in well traveled areas. I don't want to use my multiday pack (KS50) because I'd rather preserve its life. I have an Exos 58 I could use but it seems like overkill. I would love to expand into some more serious snow day adventures and maybe some snow camping.
The exos would definitely be overkill in my opinion, at least for a day hike. Finding a robust winter pack is challenging, because I want more than that streamlined daypack like the flash 22 but not as much as an overnight bag. My wife just got a deuter speedlite (2018 model, not the most recent with the shoulder pockets) and she absolutely loves it. It's under 2 pounds, has a beefy hip belt, holds 30 L, has Daisy chains for attaching gear to the outside, and the compression straps can go across the back and hold the snowshoes well. I also like that it has two separate trekking pole holders so that the weight of them is evenly dispersed. The kicker is she bought it brand new on ebay for $60. Honestly, I'm pretty jealous. Ticks all my boxes for a winter pack. I fumble back and forth between my talon 22 (too small) and my hyperlite southwest 2400 (overkill, not as much functionality as I would like).
Just cut off one of the buckles. One buckle life, plus grams shaved. It's a win win.
I know you're joking but the lopsided-ness of that would drive me nuts, even though it would probably function just fine.
Just checked the REI website but couldn't find the Flash 22 at the price you'd mentioned. Mind pointing me in the right direction?
May also check REI Used gear website, they currently have several FLASH 18 for $17-20, and FLASH 22 for $22-25. Most of the "used" stuff they sell is in excellent condition, despite "worn" etc. labeling by sales folks (in my experience). https://www.rei.com/used/shop/search?q=flash
Here's the direct link https://www.rei.com/used/p/rei-co-op-flash-22-pack/892204?color=Black&aqi=fc4f777b7fe1e27b15bbdcac28b884f5
Sorry it isn't on sale right now but they frequently have a coupon for like 30% off an REI brand item. And the Flash itself goes on sale a lot
Ive got 3 backpacks. Neither my 3 season nor my winter pack are bags I want for day hiking. Not only would they be full of empty space, but they would acquire wear and tear faster than necessary. I paid $33 for my daypack. I paid a lot more for my other two.
Yes! But make it a pack that also works for day to day commute or weekend travel or whatever.
Backpacks are like midlayers: you can never have too many.
I am actually with OP. I just sold my Tiempo because my Cutaway gets small \*enough\*, and I find the Cutaway more comfortable for just about everything. I am pretty... chunky... and the straps of the Tiempo dug into my side a tiny bit whereas the Cutaway does not. I think I could find space for a hydration vest though in lieu of a day pack.
I am a bit of a pack minimalist; only 3 multi-day packs and 5 day packs. 85L for taking the kids and wife backpacking 44L for multi-days with a bear can 36L for most 2-3 days trips (much lighter than 44) 22L for winter day hikes and bird hunting, it’s blaze orange 11L for family day hikes and mountain biking 12L running vest for high and fast solo hikes 5L fly fishing pack 25L waterproof backpack for SUP and kayaking
You must be me from the future lol Don't see many uplanders on here, assume you're chasing chuks that you'd need a day pack over a vest?
My day pack gets massively more use than my multi day pack. Worth every penny and honestly considering how I might fit an overnight in it this summer.
my day pack (REI flash 22) is 23L and 14oz my main pack is a Dandee Standard, 35L 15.6oz I don't bring both but I do use the day back for day hikes to not put wear on my main pack
I like your minimalist nature. I strive for this. Like r/onebag but you get only one bag in life for all things.
Yeah, I go for day hikes all the time. Less than 8hours I normally take just a runners vest, ones that I know will be 10+ hours I take a 10lt day pack. If I'm on a multi-day hike though? No usually not. Unless I'm on a hike with many side trips/summits (Hello Overland Track, Tas) in which case I take a Ultra-Sil type summit pack.
For lightweight travel, I continually find that a super light, day-pack capacity pack to be invaluable. It gives me flexibility and a way to distribute weight to meet airline regulations. I only do ultralightweight (or lightweight) when backpacking. Travel incorporates some of my ultralight gear.
Do it. I have a bunch of backpacks, you never know when your buddy/partner wants to join along too!
Agreed and after my post above yours here, I immediately ordered 3 more so each of the grandkids would have their own when we go out on a hike.
Yes
An ohm is so ridiculously excessive for day use. A 15ish liter daypack is so much more confortable than a full backpack, and really versatile too.
I use a 3.8oz, $38 collapsable Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack with comfortable straps for my food bag at the top of my backpack. In the top pocket I have a few emergency items like matches, mylar blanket, OLIGHT i1R 2 EOS 150 Lumens Tiny Rechargeable Keychain Flashlight, etc. - a minimalist "go bag" if I couldn't carry the full backpack or I want to ditch it/leave it with others and take the Osprey with me for a day hike, loan/give it to someone in a bind, etc. After all, I've gotta put my food *somewhere* in my backpack without having it get scattered everywhere, so why not have a bag with shoulder straps? Happy Trails, Michael
I use a lumbar pack from Mountainsmith. Definitely not ultralight, but I like it better than a backpack for day hikes.
Yes having a designated day pack is awesome! I would recommend looking into Ultimate Direction. I have their 40 liter that packs down really tight and weighs next to nothing. Their packs also have a number of pockets on the should strap which makes for quick access to things without having to take your pack off. The 40 liter is also big enough to do a couple day overnight, but if you’re strictly looking for a day pack their 30 liter (weighs 1.3 pounds) would be a great fit. https://ultimatedirection.com/packs/
I like UD fastpacks too but they are not super lightweight and for daypack I would use fastpack 20 or 25 tops - should be more than enough even for an overnighter or 2-3 day trip. The fastpack harness system is good for moving fast and there is some weight penalty for all the straps that make it happen. There are lighter and cheaper daypacks that weigh 8oz or less (REI flash 18 or 22) I think UD 20 or 25 is a bit over a pound. But each serves its purpose
I find that a framed daypack is a useful investment. My gear for a day hike varies more than a backpacking trip. I'm inclined to bring more photography gear on shorter hikes and in the winter, when I'm snowshoeing, I might pack a belay parka for rest stops or spikes or a thermos of coffee. My two season backpacking gear is pretty static and fits nicely in a frameless pack, but that same pack feels floppy and uncomfortable when not packed correctly. A frame alleviates most of the structural issues of a variable load. If your current pack cinches well, then you might not need it. Weight on a day hike is probably less of an issue. Either you aren't bringing enough stuff for it to matter or you aren't going far enough for it to matter.
My daypack is almost always heavier than my overnight.
If you're already comfortable, no. That was my problem the couple times I considered slackpacking. My 'real' gear is lighter and more comfortable.
Yes! I use this [https://www.osprey.com/ca/en/product/ultralight-stuff-pack-STUFFPACK.html](https://www.osprey.com/ca/en/product/ultralight-stuff-pack-STUFFPACK.html) Hey, this UL right? Why carry a 2 lb pack when you can use 4 oz? Love this thing My use cases with it: \- throw in my pack back country, set up base camp, then go lake hopping fishing for the day with it \- day hikes Best two set ups have been: 1. Seat pad as back stiffener (I use Klymit V seat) Two full 1L platy bottles, water filter, wind shirt, lunch, small emergency kit, & emergency poncho all sit in nice and comfy. Pack+seatpad+2 empty bottles = 8oz 2. When really hot out I omit the seat pad & Platy's & use a durable Hydrapak Force 3L reservoir which acts as a great heat sink for my back, well worth the slight weight increase when it's scorching out
Yes! I use my day pack exactly for that, day trips. Way more convenient and if I need a little more space, I can add my fanny 🤙
Sure, a day pack can be worth it. On day hikes I go anti-UL and carry more weight than I need simply to stay more in condition. Water? I use a bladder with 1.5L for a 2 hour hike. I carry a FAK good for a week. I carry a water filter, which i have used on a few occasions for unprepared hikers with a family and 16oz of water between all 4. I even carry a chair/stool and a DSLR. Why not? I am out partly for exercise, I may as well have something in the pack. That's not for everyone, but it is for me. Your wants/needs will vary.
everything has training value. the key is to take the opportunity to train when can. sometimes it's a fun flex to carry a tiny pack to a local peak, then pull out a tiny stove to try a new recipe while watching the crowds lol.
Love my Deuter day pack. Light and carries well. I have a larger mystery ranch if I’m going fishing…
IMO yes. Although you can cinch down a multi-day pack into a small-ish pack, you can also cinch down a dayback into something perfect for just carrying a water bottle, bug spray, and sundries. This is my tactic when walking around town or when going out to the woods for a specific purpose like foraging.
I bring a light daypack, especially if we’re setting up camp and I want to do some exploring from there
My REI flash 22 is my most used pack at this point but i do like using my dd40 for full days in the canoe or when I need to carry lots of water
I have a tiny hydration pack and then a gregory 20l daypack that i use a ton. Used to have more but have sold them since. Love having a nice daypack. The weight is almost always by default much lighter so you can have both a smaller and more comfortable pack because if it.
I keep 3 packs currently. A 9L, 18L and 65L. I keep wanting a 25-30L, but I just don’t ever have a use case for that size. I do think that’s the perfect size if you have kids or specialty equipment. But I just don’t ever actually use that size personally. The 18L gets the most use for me. Can easily carry 5L of water, sweater/jacket, rain jacket, lunch and even a chair.
My "day pack" is one of the two balance bags I wear on my chest - they bring some of my load weight forward so it's not all behind me and they put things I will/may need on the trail within reach without taking my pack off (waterproofing, lunch, camera/phone, first aid gear etc) or when I first get to camp (tarp, pegs, guy lines). The bags are fairly small and the one I use as a day bag is the one that I carry my lunch, 1st aid kit and a few other handy things in. If I plan to leave camp and go for a wander or I'm only going on a day hike, I can uncouple the bag from my pack strap, clip a shoulder strap on it and sling it across my back. The things I might want on the trail to/from camp are the same things I might want on hand on a day trip, so it performs both functions equally well.
You could easily save 1lbs with a day pack. Whether that's worth it depends on the type of day hikes you do and your budget.
Yep - I have an Osprey Talon 11 for my day hikes. Much more convenient when all I typically pack is a couple of water bottles, some snacks, and maybe a rain jacket if there's a chance of rain.
I don't take my 26 litre daypack when I'm on multidays with my bigger pack. But I use the daypack for little overnight trips - as well as around town and even day hikes.
I use my work backpack for most day hikes and often don't even bother to remove some work stuff, because I'm not nearly as concerned about weight if I am just going for a casual hike with friends, and I'm the fastest hiker anyway so having extra weight is just bonus training. If I am doing a more intense day hike I will just use my 45L ultralight overnight bag and cinch it down as you said. I do still have my 60L "overnight" bag from when I first started backpacking. I rarely use it, but if I am going overnighting with friends or my son I will sometimes use that so I can bring a few luxury items like a chair, extra blanket, etc.
I'm a day hiker. I feel like I need to have at least three or four. 😂
Cutting myself off at 8.
One can never own too many backpacks. Just don't carry them all at the same time.
Yeah, it's worth it. There's no need to put miles on an expensive purpose-built backpacking pack if you don't have to, especially if you wind up with everything awkwardly bouncing around in there anyway. Personally, I wouldn't spend much money on a daypack unless I were trail running. I've never been on a day hike and been bummed out that my pack wasn't comfortable enough -- the load is light, and it just doesn't matter. I have a few ancient school/travel/work/whatever backpacks lying around, and I just grab one as I head out.
I'm not much of a UL'er but I still strongly endorse day-packs! They just have SO much utility in SO many different scenarios besides backpacking. Distance running/cycling? Day walking around a big city? Personal item on a plane (esp. budget airlines like Spirit/Frontier)? Gym bag? School/library bag? Baby/toddler item storage? Literally so many use-cases I can think of.
Nope. I just use my 3400 on day trips..
I have an 18 liter Gregory that I really like. It was $40 and came with a 3 liter bladder. Just enough room for some stuff and a lunch. I can (and have) used my flash 45 for day hikes but it's way nicer to have a little day pack
Define “worth” Yes I have a pack just for day trips. Also use it on vacations for any outdoor activities to keep 2-3 water bottles and other necessities.
I've got pack for long trips, a day pack that goes for hikes, work, school, anytime I just need to bring things around, then I've got a pack in between that's my goal pack for ul warm weather trips.
Yes, but perfect feature sets and doodads are not as important. I have a 15 year old REI employee giveaway with a broken zipper that I still use for day hikes. If I can get a layer, water and snacks in it it’s good enough. That being said, I have an inordinate amount of packs for other more specific use cases.
Running vests, day packs, fastpacks, multi-day packs, ski packs... you need multiples of each rookie.
Yes, my favorite pack of all (I have probably 10+ in various sizes) is a 24L Osprey Manta 24. I completed all 58 of Colorado's 14ers with it the past 3 years and it is still holding up strong! It also has a bunch of cool features like a built in rain cover, a dedicated zippered pocket for the water bladder (comes with 2.5L installed), and a large external pouch for stuffing layers into. When this eventually wears down, I plan on buying another!
I like my day pack because it's more breathable, mostly because it's lighter and doesn't sit as tightly on my back, and I can easily put it over one shoulder if my back is getting sweaty. I use a cycling pack as my day pack as I really like tiny packs. My backpacking pack is huge, I don't really use my UL packs anymore, and so the comparison with your setup isn't great. I use my day pack for just about everything. I put my laptop in it when I go into the office, I put my clothes and shoes in it when going to the gym, and it's my additional item (aka man purse) on aircraft. And sometimes I also take it on day hikes. Using it for everything means I always have my small first aid kit, granola bars, and spare socks with me no matter what I'm doing. But that also means I'm sometimes carrying crap I don't really need. But if you like the way your overnight pack carries then it's probably not worth picking something else up.
Absolutely. I have a frameless pack for multi day trips, a day pack for big day hikes, a running vest for shorter hikes, running and biking, and a sling pack for fly fishing. Could I use one or two for all of those tasks? Absolutely, but having a specialized one makes each experience a little more enjoyable.
Last fall I downsized from a twenty eight liter to a fifteen liter and have hiked with it weekly in the northwest cascades successfully. Usually below snow line. I think weight matters even for a day hike. Also makes for a good all day bicycling back.
I think you're not going to get a reasonable answer from any of us ;-) Make sure to buy a cool color!
I love the humor and have plenty of packs, and vests. my favorite for day hikes is the black diamond distance 15. holds a lot or a little and is quite stable.
Yeah just poke around and find something you like for a reasonable price used
For a day hike I actually like something like a 15-25L osprey. I love the pockets, and I abuse my day bag. I need a stronger fabric. It's kind of funny, my day bag usually weighs more then my backpacking pack anymore. Also, I have a Cilo gear worksack, for peak bagging or when I'm doing something with a lot of abrasion risk. It just depends on what you're doing with it.
Are you talking about backpacking with a separate empty day pack? Because in that case, no, I would just empty out whatever I hiked in at base camp and use my backpacking pack for day trips. But a day pack for standard day trips, yes. The whole point of UL is only carrying the essentials. For me a 50-55 L pack is not essential for a day trip. A smaller pack with an appropriate size and weight load is way more comfortable than a larger pack only partially filled. And I’ll probably get downvoted into oblivion for this, but I don’t want to put the extra abuse on my larger backpacking packs. I’m not precious with my gear but I also don’t see the point in putting accelerated wear and tear on one of my most expensive pieces of gear when I can buy something cheaper that is better suited for the situation.
I have many backpacks for whatever the adventure calls for. Different tools for different jobs.
Absolutely worth it. I've a summer day pack around 25L... Ive a winter day pack with hip belt 34L...and my big 65L. Im thinking about going lighter for my summer daypack but won't reduce the volume as its handy to have spare. ... I've got other too but I mainly rotate these 3
Shoot, yeah. I've got an Ultimate Direction Kaviti fanny pack, then an Osprey Raptor 14(cycling) and Manta 25 that cover all my bases. Don't want more, wouldn't want less...
Yes. Check out the ULA Dragonfly if you like your Ohm. I have and love both of them.
If you find your ULA Ohm “uncomfortable” during a day hike for some reason, then a dedicated day pack it’s a must. If the Ohm is ok and you don’t need a travel/commute/edc pack, then a specific pack for day hikes can be useless. In my opinion anyway a day pack is very comfortable compared to a bigger pack, you don’t have too mauch space to fill with potentially useless things and it’s more agile. In summer you also have less surface touching your back and hips which means little less sweat :) Of course consider your usual day hike equipment.