Amigos, what a wonderful moment to be alive!
How come?
Because outdoor gear is at its best right now, lightweight backpacks are at their best. Gearheads unite!
Travelling and trekking have undergone a significant transformation thanks to ultralight backpacking backpacks. With several ingeniously created lightweight backpacks, backpackers may now travel significantly lighter.
However, along with the rush of beautiful backpacks came an increase in subpar backpacks, making it challenging to decide on the right one to purchase, mainly because an ultralight pack is generally expensive!
As a result, I’ve created this comprehensive guide of top backpacking ultralight packs to make your choice easier.
As a veteran thru-hiker, I’m here to speak to the value of carrying kick-ass lightweight gear and an ultralight backpack. After this article, you will have found the ideal ultralight backpacking backpack for your needs and can then conquer your wild backpacking excursions and journeys like you’ve never imagined!
A Quick Answer For 2022’s Most Incredible ultralight backpacking backpacks
- Osprey Eja 48: Best Women’s Bag
- Granite Gear CrownC2 60: Best Overall Backpack
- Osprey Daylite Plus: Best Day Hiking Backpack
- Osprey Farpoint 40: Best Backpack for Travel:
- Sea to Summit Hydraulic 35: Best Waterproof Backpack
- Gregory Optic 48: Best Budget Backpack
- Nomatic Travel Bag: Best Lightweight Travel Backpack
- Gossamer Gear Gorilla 40: Best Bag for Thru-Hikers
- ZPacks Arc Blast: Number 2 Best Bag for Thru-Hikers
Performance Breakdowns For The Best ultralight backpacking backpacks
I have divided my top recommendations into various categories to simplify selecting the ideal lightweight backpack. Depending on your unique requirements, you may plan your upcoming purchase of an ultralight backpacking backpack.
I will break down factors including price, weight, specifications, carrying capacity, fit, comfort, etc., as I discuss the functionality of each lightweight backpack on the list. You should consider whether you want front mesh pockets, a detachable hip belt, roll-top closures, shoulder pockets, or a frameless pack. Lightweight packs provide a great deal more than you would imagine.
My top selections for the best lightweight backpacks for 2022 are listed below:
#1 Osprey Eja 48
The Number 1 ultralight backpacking backpack For Women
Specifications
- Weight: 2 pounds 10 ounces.
- Price: $200.00
- Max Comfortable Load: 40 pounds
- Volume: 48 Liter
Osprey Eja 58 is a lightweight backpack created with women in mind. According to all assessments, the Eja 48 is the ideal lightweight backpack for women, given that it is ultralight, really comfy, and immensely practical.
Although the Osprey Eja 48 is a bit heavier than most ultralight backpacking backpacks, I like its durability. I also like it since it has an incredibly comfortable fit and a lightweight frame. Backpackers can carry all they require without compromising any comfort, thanks to it.
The AirSpeed vented suspension system and ExoFoam harnesses on the Eja 48 evenly distribute the load’s weight and provide a snug fit for extended days spent hiking. Additionally, it has very comfortable shoulder straps. This is far more comfortable than other lightweight backpacks!
The Eja 48 boasts dual-access cloth side pockets for storage and a detachable compression cord to hold your water bottle or other small things. A compression strap within the pack’s main pocket keeps everything in position and allows you to increase its capacity.
The detachable top lid cable loop connection offers additional alternatives for storage. It gives you several ways to attach items to the outside of the backpack, making it perfect for a lightweight backpacking adventure. The front also has a valuable mesh pocket.
The Osprey Eja 48, the total package, is among the best lightweight backpacks I’ve seen. Even though it could be a little bulky for a daypack, it competes favourably with the most popular ultralight backpacking backpacks.
Consider taking a look at the Osprey Exos 48 for men.
Pros
- Durable
- High-quality
Cons
- The pack weighs more than similar ultralight packs because it has a frame.
- The absence of shoulder pockets and hip belt pockets truly irks me.
#2 Granite Gear CrownC2 60
The Number 1 ultralight backpacking backpack Overall
Specifications
- Weight: 2 pounds 2 ounces
- Price: $199.95
- Max Comfortable Load: 35 pounds
- Volume: 60 L
The Granite Gear Crown V.C. 60 is the best lightweight backpack overall.
Given its size, my top selection for lightweight backpacks would make some backpackers cringe. After all, the Granite Gear CrownC2 60 has a volume of 60 litres.
Generally, lightweight backpacks have a reduced carrying capacity and volume to reduce weight. However, the Crown V.C. earned my highest praise for various reasons.
When evaluating ultralight backpacking backpacks, I put weight consideration first, but it also needs to be comfy. Compromises are sometimes made while choosing lightweight hiking equipment, such as skipping retractable hip belts or cushioned shoulder straps, but these can make a big difference.
This backpack excels when it comes to comfort. Dual-density cushioning and thin webbing straps are included on the shoulder straps and detachable hip belt to ensure you get the ideal fit.
The max load limit of 35 pounds is a recommendation rather than a target weight that you should aim for. The best part is that you have ample room for your food and essential hiking supplies.
Its top-loading layout has a safe roll-top cover for organisation, pack access, and simple access to the central pocket. The backpack’s body has stretch-mesh side pockets, a large front mesh compartment, and light and efficient LineLoc compression for safe storage of all your outdoor gear.
It’s common knowledge that ultralight backpacks aren’t considered durable or tough by design. But the Crown V.C. makes a worthy attempt. The hybrid 100-denier silk-nylon body has 210-denier Cordura supports in strategic places for added sturdiness.
But remember that you must handle lightweight backpacks gently. Overusing them will eventually cause them to rip or shatter.
Pros
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Not as lightweight as most of its rivals.
- Larger than most ultralight backpacking backpacks.
#3 Osprey Daylite Plus
The Number 1 Day Hiking Backpack
Specifications
- Weight: 1 pound 3.8 ounces.
- Price: $65.00
- Max Comfortable Load: 25 pounds.
- Volume: 20 L
Bear with me here even if I am straying a little from ultralight backpacking backpacks.
A sturdy day hiking pack is essential for any traveller. You need to bring along a few necessities for those fast weekend trips to major metropolis or the mountains—the Osprey Daylite Plus is among the top backpacks for ultralight trekking.
The roomy main compartment includes a cushioned inside sleeve for transporting a tablet and other gadgets that may easily be used as an intrinsic hydration sleeve. The smaller pocket contains a key fob with a zipped mesh pocket, which is convenient. After all, who doesn’t have keys?
Now, let’s talk about ventilation. Foam slots in the mesh-covered rear panel provide excellent breathability and ventilation. In other daypacks, the notorious swamp-back blues might be a very uncomfortable reality.
Backpacks made entirely of cloth where your back touches the rucksack are a formula for a very sweaty back. Osprey Daylite Plus’s shoulder straps also include a ventilation system that will help keep you cool.
The open-topped stash compartment on the Daylite Plus is a fantastic addition for coats and quick-use goods. Top it off with tiny front-zipped pockets that let you keep regularly used goods.
The Osprey Daylite Plus is a fantastic daypack for $65. The bag takes first place regarding value for your money. We put it among the best ultralight packs since the pack’s weight is relatively low, unlike most packs, ensuring that you aren’t carrying excess weight.
Pros
- Durable
- High quality
Cons
- Not a backpack for overnight trips.
- It has little space for large equipment.
#4 Osprey Farpoint 40
The Number 1 Lightweight Backpack for Travel
Specifications
- Weight: 3 pounds 1.75 ounces (Small/Medium Size)
- Price: $160.00
- Max Comfortable Load:30 pounds
- Volume: 40 L
A fantastic ultralight backpacking backpack for your travels is essential for backpackers travelling to tropical locations like South and Central America or Southeast Asia.
The Osprey Farpoint is ideal for travellers who want to pack light. This ultralight backpack will perform exceptionally well during ultralight backpacking excursions for minimalist travellers who want to avoid bringing a lot of luggage. It’s among the top pieces of backpacking equipment available.
The main pocket of the Farpoint is accessible through a sizable zipped panel. For additional security, the zippers contain lockable sliders as well. This backpack is rather basic and lacks an exterior mesh pocket. Nonetheless, the separate day pack may provide a comparable solution.
The Farpoint 40 can be carried out in three distinct ways. The typical padded top, side handles, cushioned shoulder straps for carrying by hand, and the removable shoulder strap in a messenger design. For my taste, the backpack’s shoulder straps might need more padding.
The Osprey Farpoint can be transported on aeroplanes, which is a significant distinction. Most airlines will allow this backpack as a carry-on, saving you a good amount of money and time throughout your trips! That’s what you should look for in an ultralight backpacking backpack.
You can save a great deal of money and keep all your possessions close by choosing the Osprey Farpoint 40 as your ultralight backpacking backpack!
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Pros
- Durable
- High Quality
Cons
- Not suitable for hiking.
- It lacks enough room for travellers who need to bring a lot of luggage.
#5 Sea to Summit Hydraulic 35
The Number 1 Ultralight Waterproof Backpack
Specifications
- Weight: 2 pounds 7 ounces
- Price: $169.95
- Max Comfortable Load: 25 pounds.
- Volume: 35 Litre
Sea to Summit’s backpacks could be better known. However, they have recently made a clear and deliberate attempt to enhance their status in that area (They create fantastic dry bags and several other excellent goods, though). The Sea to Summit Hydraulic 35 Drypack is where they have established their place.
This backpack is not a full-size backpacking backpack. The Sea to Summit Hydraulic 35 is meant to serve as a daypack for short hikes. Ideal users of this bag would be kayakers, river guides, travellers, and city dwellers who frequent damp areas.
The Summit Hydraulic 35 excels in its field. It has lots of equipment storage and is entirely waterproof. It is incredibly light and can store food, water bottles, laptops, and clothing.
This backpack has a detachable waist belt, a low-profile, fully adjustable, cushioned shoulder strap, and a padded hip belt for maximum carry comfort. The large, stretchable side pockets on the outside really appeal to me.
If you engage in a lot of water events (river guiding, kayaking, scuba diving, fishing, and many more), the Sea to Summit Summit Hydraulic 35 is entirely submersible. Few backpacks nowadays can withstand an aggressive river plunge without getting wet inside.
The Summit Hydraulic 35 lightweight backpack is excellent gear for adventures!
Pros
- Sea to Summit offers a lifetime guarantee
- Completely waterproof.
Cons
- Not a conventional hiking backpack.
#6 Gregory Optic 48
The Number 1 Budget Backpack
Specifications
- Weight: 2.5 pounds. (Medium size)
- Price: $189.95
- Max Comfortable Load: 40 pounds.
- Volume: 48 L
Generally, ultralight equipment can be costly. You have to spend a fortune getting a sleeping bag, a backpack, and an ultralight tent.
They aren’t handing out free Gregory Optic 48s. However, it is the most incredible ultralight backpacking backpack available for the price of $189.95.
For thru-hikers, the Optic 48 is an excellent low-cost alternative. It has a support hip belt and a sufficiently ventilated shoulder strap that addresses every comfort zone and improves comfort when carrying it.
I adore all the intricate elements in this collection. The Gregory designers ought to receive a lovely Christmas gift this year thanks to the practical water bottle compartments, the position of the rain flap, and the area for storing sunglasses. The Optic 48 is where all your small pieces and equipment have a place to call home.
The Optic 48 has double-zippered hip belt compartments for additional storage, offering safe, convenient areas for food or your phones. The Optic 48 offers more storage choices than the Eja 48 because Gregory added hip belt pockets!
The Gregory Optic 48 is a superb lightweight pack for economical lengthy hiking.
Pros
- High quality
- Affordable
Cons
- The mesh pocket might only last for a while.
- Putting or removing your water bottle from those annoying bottle pockets is difficult.
#7 ZPacks Arc Blast
The Number 2 Ultralight Bag for Thru-Hikers
Specifications
- Weight: 1 pound 5 ounces
- Price: $325.00
- Max Comfortable Load: 30 pounds
- Volume: 55 L
The Zpacks Arc Blast weighs roughly the same as a cheddar cheese block. The Arc Blast is my number one choice for the most ultralight backpacking backpack on this list because of how insanely light it is.
Zpacks is a modest business that manufactures backpacks based on the orders they receive in the United States. The Zpacks backpacks are currently in such high demand among ultralight thru-hikers that the processing times can reach months (although they are often five weeks or longer).
The customisable torso straps significantly aid in adjusting the pack for a specific fit, and the reliable mesh rear panel ventilation. The Zpacks Arc Blast’s base model is rather basic. Although the pack’s volume is described as 55 litres, in practice, it seems more like 40 to 45 litres, and that’s being charitable.
Remember that the hiking pole straps, interior pouches, and hip belt compartments aren’t included. They must be requested, and adding them costs more money.
The backpack’s material is constructed of a special DCF, which significantly contributes to the pack’s water resistance (not waterproof).
The Zpacks Arc Blast will become your new best friend if you’re a thru-hiker seeking a base weight that is as low as possible.
Pros
- Quality is not sacrificed for portability.
Cons
- Expensive.
- You must pay more for the pockets. You have to charge for the additional labour that adding pockets entails when you produce every product, like Zpacks.
#8 Gossamer Gear Gorilla 40
The Nuber 1 Ultralight Bag for Thru-Hikers
Specifications
- Weight: 1 pound 14 ounces
- Price: $215.00
- Max Comfortable Load: 35 pounds
- Volume: 40 L
The Gossamer Gear Gorilla 40 is ideal for hardcore lightweight thru-hikers who want to cover a lot of ground with the least weight limitations conceivable. This lightweight backpack, made for thru-hikers, is ideal for camping.
You can get a snug fit thanks to the combination of the customisable shoulder straps and hip belt. The SitLight pad is one remarkable aspect of the Gossamer Gear Gorilla 40. The SitLight is a detachable rear pad that serves as a camping seat. Who wouldn’t like to rest their worn-out bum somewhere else, excluding the sharp rock?
This backpack’s minimal weight is primarily due to its aluminium frame, which also serves as a reliable source of support.
Be aware that if you choose the Gossamer Gear Gorilla 40, you must completely commit to its ultralight program. The 40-litre capacity needs to be more room to manoeuvre around. To ensure it works, you’ll need everything to be extremely lightweight, tiny, and minimalist.
Nevertheless, going completely lightweight is fantastic. You can travel significant distances daily because your backpack doesn’t weigh more than 30 lbs.
Pros
- Durable
- High quality
Cons
- I am curious to know how long the mesh pockets will last.
- You’ll have to pay more for the hip pockets
#9 Nomatic Travel Bag
The Nuber 2 Lightweight Travel Bag Overall
Specifications
- Weight: 4 pounds.
- Price: $229 to 279
- Max Comfortable Load: 30 pounds.
- Volume: 40 L
The Nomatic Travel Bag is neither a lightweight backpack nor a hiking pack. It belongs to an entirely different species of bags, yet it made our list of the best backpacking packs for a good reason!
A new backpack is sweeping the travel industry and the internet by storm, and it’s perfect for those on the go. The Nomatic Travel Bag is a cool unit. It is so incredible that it made it onto my list of lightweight backpacks.
Essentially, the Nomatic Travel Bag would rank at the number one spot on the list if any travel bags could meet ALL the short-term travel demands of a backpacker.
A staggering number of well-designed pockets, gear storage choices, and compartments are included in the Nomatic Travel Bag. Even a mesh washing bag is included. No more stuffing those filthy socks into your backpack’s front pocket, huh?
The Nomatic Travel Bag has a series of streamlined designs from beginning to end. The laptop compartment, the premium water-resistant fabrics utilised, the fleece-lined pocket for your valuables, and the distinct shoe compartment (there is also one for undergarments and socks) are some of my favourite features.
Remember that the Nomatic Travel Bag is among the most incredible carry-on luggage options. Exceptionally beautifully done, Nomatic.
Pros
- Sleek and compact design
- A well-planned design
Cons
- Expensive
- You’ll have to pay more to get the bag and all its extras.
Choosing An Ultralight Backpacking Backpack
As you can see, there are wide variations in ultralight backpacking backpack design, style, capacity, price, and weight. It’s crucial to pick the ideal lightweight bag for your specific requirements.
The most crucial concerns you should address are:
- What is the performance-to-weight ratio ideal for me?
- What budget have I set up for an ultralight backpacking backpack?
- What capacity is needed to meet my needs?
In the sections below, I’ve broken down each significant feature of ultralight backpacking backpacks.
Before deciding which one to purchase, you need a clear understanding of all the factors contributing to an ultralight backpacking backpack’s awesomeness.
Weight
I assume you are worried about backpack weight since you’re jumping into the vast ocean of ultralight backpacking backpacks. Or, at the very least, trying to travel as lightly as possible.
If you choose an exceptional ultralight pack, e.g. the ZPacks Arc Blast, you’ll undoubtedly have one of the most lightweight ultralight backpacking packs ever created. Nevertheless, a more lightweight backpack will likely be less durable and more likely to be uncomfortable. Additionally, weight has a direct impact on cost.
Manufacturers employ basic materials that degrade over time to reduce backpack weights as much as necessary. This fact remains the same throughout the whole ultralight community. The lighter your backpack is, the less durable it will be, whether down coats, sleeping bags, hiking poles, etc.
I suggest striking a harmonious balance between toughness and light. The Gregory Optic 48 combines the most remarkable features of both worlds.
Price
As I previously mentioned, the lighter your backpack or outdoor gear is, the more costly it is. As seen above, the lightweight bag on this list costs the most.
Your willingness to spend on this lightweight backpack should consider how often you use it. Are you considering a lengthy through-hike? Travelling across Europe? Simply looking for a fantastic daypack?
Different pricing points will be necessary for each of those circumstances. A highly lightweight pack like the Granite Gear Crown V.C. 60 is something you should have if you intend to hike hundreds of kilometres in one go. Similarly, the Osprey Eja 48 is the best option to backpack around Europe.
Bottom line: How much an ultralight backpacking backpack will cost depends heavily on how you will use it. Determine your activities first, and then determine the acceptable pricing range.
Fit and Comfort
Lightweight backpacks are unquestionably less comfortable than full-sized, bulky hiking backpacks. In contrast to heavy backpacks, ultralight backpacking backpacks have minimal padding.
I am impressed that the lightweight backpack manufacturers can produce relatively comfortable backpacks considering that they are attempting to cut down as much weight as possible. However, the majority of lightweight backpacks lack any kind of suspension mechanism.
Our recurring theme is that your hiking backpack will likely become less comfortable the lighter you want it to be. Backpacks that weigh very little are simple units. What you relish in lightness is what you miss out in padding.
The backpacks on this list are all typically pretty comfortable, with a few minor exceptions. You should measure your torso and waist before purchasing a lightweight backpack online. This will ensure that you will achieve the ideal fit.
Ventilation and Breathability
You should also research and critically consider the backpack’s breathability. When hiking, you will feel hot and sweat a lot. A good backpack should ideally have ventilation and airflow to dissipate your body heat.
An excellent illustration of a rear panel that is well-vented is seen on the Osprey Eja 48. To prevent moisture buildup, the gaps and mesh holes between the frame and the rear panel enable a healthy degree of ventilation.
A lightweight backpack with a good design should always make airflow possible.
Volume and Carry Capacity
Purchasing an ultralight backpacking backpack is meant to, in principle, allow you to carry less equipment. I’m sorry to inform you that having 50 lbs in a bag that weighs only two pounds won’t be enjoyable.
By nature, lightweight backpacks compel you to eliminate anything unnecessary for the journey. In a light backpack, more room is just not a luxury.
Similarly, lightweight backpacks weren’t made to support heavy weights. Your lightweight backpack will either snap or become unbearably unpleasant to trek with if you overburden it. The Granite Gear Crown V.C. 60 provides a reasonable volume (60 L) in a compact design.
However, if you’re seriously considering joining the ultralight backpack secret society, just plan to start backpacking with less gear.
Design
Selecting a design type is primarily a matter of personal choice. Ultralight backpacking backpacks are made to be valuable and practical while removing anything extraneous. For instance, daypacks are lightweight, giving designers greater leeway to incorporate additional design elements.
Though they weigh less, lightweight backpacks are made to withstand heavy usage. They are made so that you may pack your belongings sensibly and efficiently.
I like how the Gregory Optic 48 offers many useful organising options for hikers. The most crucial factors are design, cost, volume, and weight.
Material and Durability
The most durable backpacks in the store are different from the ultralight ones. You can’t approach your ultralight equipment like a typical backpacking backpack.
Smashing it to the floor, tugging it along the ground, resting it up against a prickly cactus, bashing it into a spiky blackberry bush—all of these actions might cause the lightweight fabric’s fragile weave to rip and puncture severely, resulting in frustration.
Repeat it after me now: a backpacking backpack is more likely to be less durable the lighter it is.
Nevertheless, most lightweight backpacks can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Typically, either Dyneema Composite Fabric (initially cuben fibre) or Ripstop Nylon is used to create lightweight backpacks. Both are capable of surviving a few good snags and are moderately water-resistant.
You will be alright if you handle your backpack more cautiously than usual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still, have more inquiries? No problem! The most frequently asked questions are presented here, along with our responses. Here is what most folks typically want to find out:
Which is the lightest backpacking backpack?
With a weight of just more than one pound, the ZPacks Arc Blast is among the lightest backpacking backpacks available. It is a well-liked lightweight hiking backpack because of its 30lbs carry the capability and roomy 40 to 45L capacity.
Is it worth it to get an ultralight backpacking backpack?
It is easier to move when you are not carrying as much weight. A lightweight backpack may make long walks and trips easier, provided it is one of the highest quality.
How heavy are ultralight backpacking backpacks?
Several ultralight backpacking backpacks are slightly over one pound. Remember that the backpack’s size affects the weight as well. Ultralight backpacking backpacks typically weigh somewhere around 1.7 and 3 pounds.
Are ultralight backpacking backpacks durable?
A backpack’s small weight does not automatically imply that it is of low quality. Unless you choose the cheap alternative, lightweight backpacks are often composed of sturdy materials, making them incredibly dependable and durable.
Final Thoughts
Finally, you have concluded my evaluation. Good work! You should now be prepared to consume the incredibly ultralight products and partake in their lightweight enjoyment.
Selecting the ideal lightweight pack for you can take time and effort. You don’t want a bag you were so eager to use letting you down.
After reading my article, you should have all the necessary knowledge to purchase a genuinely excellent lightweight pack for your excursions.
Still trying to decide which one is best for you? Use Granite Gear’s Crown V.C. 60, my go-to lightweight pack, if in doubt.
Best women’s ultralight backpacking backpack? That would be the Osprey Eja 48.
Are you just looking for a backpack for wild day treks with your significant other? Have a look at the Osprey Daylite Plus.
Welcome to our lightweight backpack secret society, the friendliest community of travellers you’ll ever encounter. Best of luck!