We live in a great period of outdoor equipment, and lightweight packs have never been more refined.
The advent of ultralight backpacks revolutionized the hiking and travel industries. Some well-thought-out designers have created lightweight backpacks allowing hikers to carry much less gear.
While there has been an increase in high-quality backpacks, there has also been a rise in low-quality alternatives, making it difficult to choose the best one for your needs and budget. And it’s especially true when considering the price of a typical lightweight pack.
In light of that, this comprehensive post guide has compiled the finest, lightest backpacks available.
It has also included a few pointers from seasoned backpackers to ensure that the list only comprises the top-notch ultralight pack and other lightweight gear. By the conclusion of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to choose the best ultralight hiking pack for you, allowing you to enjoy your trips and outdoor experiences to the fullest. Let’s get started!
Performance Analysis of the Best Ultralight Backpacks
You may begin by identifying your top options to make picking your ideal lightweight simpler. You may base your next purchase of an ultralight pack on your unique requirements.
Break down factors like weight, pricing, carrying capacity, features, comfort, fit, and many other things as you brainstorm the functionality of each backpack on your shortlist. You should also determine if you want a front netting pocket, a detachable hip belt, shoulder pockets, a roll-top closure, or a frameless backpack. These lightweight packs provide a lot more than you may imagine.
These evaluations include nearly comprehensive images of the best lightweight backpacks currently available.
Below is a compiled list of the best lightweight backpacks in 2023.
1. Eja 48 (from Osprey)
Specs
- Priced at $200
- Weighs 2 lbs
- 48 Liter volume capacity
- Recommended load range from 35 to 40 lbs
This lightweight backpack from Osprey created was designed with women in mind. It has been deemed the most fantastic lightweight backpack for women due to its small size, high levels of comfort, and incredible utility.
Despite its near-ultralight weight, this backpack is incredibly durable durability. Another thing, it provides excellent comfort in a very lightweight package, which is just what most travelers are looking for. It’s ideal for travelers who want to take their belongings with them but want to avoid roughing them.
The Eja 48’s vented suspension technology and ExoFoam strap make it comfortable to wear even during extended hikes. The shoulder straps are also incredibly soft and supportive. In contrast to other packs of its kind, this one sets a new standard for comfort while remaining relatively light.
The pack includes two detachable cloth zippered pockets with a retractable constriction cord, perfect for storing water bottles and other small things. Compression straps within the main compartment compress the pack to its maximum capacity and secure its contents.
The pack is great for lightweight trekking because of its large main compartment and the fact that you can connect extra gear to the outside using the (removed) top lid cable loop attachment. Its front mesh pouch is included for added convenience.
If you’re looking for a top-notch lightweight backpack, go no further than the Eja 48. Although it is on the bulky edge for a day bag, it is easily competitive with the finest ultralight backpacks for trekking.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- top-quality
Cons
- Its frame makes it heavier than its competitors.
- Lacks hip belt and shoulder compartments
2. CrownC2 60 (Granite Gear)
Specs
- Retails for $199.95
- Have a mass of 2 pounds
- Max Load of 35 lbs
When it comes to Ultralight backpacks, many people turn to the Crown V.C. 60.
Backpacking is made easier with its 60-liter capacity. Generally, ultralight packs are more miniature and can only carry a smaller load. However, the Crown V.C. had been the most preferred choice for many.
While lightweight is the most critical factor for me when choosing an ultralight pack, comfort is also crucial. When looking for lightweight hiking gear, it’s common to make sacrifices, such as forgoing a detachable hip belt or cushioned shoulder straps.
In this respect, the Crown V.C. 60 is unmatched. Adjust the fit with the aid of the hip belt and straps, which are detachable and include dual-density cushioning and thin webbing straps.
The 35-pound peak weight is no longer a goal but a benchmark to be reached safely and comfortably. The great news is that you won’t have to choose between essential hiking gear and food because of a lack of storage capacity.
The pocket is easily accessible thanks to the qualify and the sturdy roll top closure. The outside of the pack features a light and efficient LineLoc constriction, a large front mesh pouch, and a stretch-mesh pocket to keep all your gear safe.
Ultra-light packs are only sometimes noted for their toughness or longevity due to their design. The Granite Gear firm has put efforts in that direction. The main fabric is a 100-denier silk-nylon blend, and it is reinforced with over 210-denier Nylon webbing in key locations.
Ultralight packs, while incredibly convenient, require some extra TLC to ensure their long life. Over time, wear and tear from overuse is inevitable.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- long-lasting
Cons
- Ultralight backpacks are big.
- More lightweight than some rivals.
3. Farpoint 40 (From Osprey)
Specs
- Priced at $160
- Weights 3 lbs.
- 40 Liter volume
- Max Load ranging from 25-30 lbs
A compact backpack is essential for travelers in warm, tropical locations such as South America, Southeast Asia, and Central America.
If you’re searching for a lightweight backpack, go as far as the Farpoint 40 from Osprey. This ultralight backpack is excellent for minimalist travelers who can carry a little gear on their journeys. It’s a top-tier piece of hiking equipment, for sure.
You can access its main pocket via a large zipped panel. It also allows you to lock the sliders on the zippers for extra safety. The bag is fundamental, but it’d be nice if there were an exterior mesh pocket. On the other hand, the daypack may be removed and used as a carry-all.
You may wear the Farpoint 40 in three distinct ways. These include the removable messenger-style belt, the cushioned top and side grips, and the usually padded sleeves. The shoulder strap, however, may use extra padding to make them more comfortable for travelers.
You can transport this pack on airplanes. The vast majority of airlines will allow you to use it everywhere. This is fantastic news because lightweight backpacks are the best option for saving time and money throughout your trip.
You can keep everything you need on hand and save a ton of cash by purchasing an ultralight camping bag.
Pros
- Exceptional Quality
- Solidly built
Cons
- Not the best backpack for hiking
- Lacks the room for tourists with plenty of kit demands.
4. Gregory Optic 48
Specs
- Priced at $189.95
- Weights 2.5 lbs.
- 48 Liter volume
- Max Load is 40 lbs.
The price of lightweight equipment tends to add up quickly. Purchasing an ultralight sleeping bag, tent, and pack may quickly add to a significant sum of money.
While the Optic 48 isn’t free, for $189.95, it is the finest ultralight trekking backpack.
This ultralight bag is an excellent low-cost alternative for long-distance trekkers. Its dual-density shoulder strap and hip belt are designed to relieve pressure in certain areas for increased ease of transport.
Each pack’s extras have a thoughtful design element that many travelers love. The designer of this pack deserves praise for thinking of everything from bottle pouches to a designated space to put a rain fly. The Optic 48 pack creates a home for all your little personal belongings.
The dual-zippered waist belt compartments on the Optic 48 are great for stowing away small items like food or a phone safely and conveniently. By including hip belt pockets, the Optic 48 has been made to be more convenient than the Eja 48 for stowing gear.
This will be a fantastic lightweight backpack if you’re a long-distance traveler on a tight budget.
Pros
- Pocket friendly
- High-quality
Cons
- Front mesh pouch durability concerns most travelers
- Water bottle pockets can be annoying.
5. Daylite Plus (From Osprey)
Specs
- Priced at $65
- Weight 1 lb
- 20 Liter volume
- Max Load ranged from 15-25 lbs.
Hikers require a solid daypack. Weekend trips to the highlands or major metropolis require a few things. This product from Osprey is a top-rated ultralight trekking backpack.
A cushioned inside sleeve for tablets or other gadgets may also be used as a hydration layer in the big main pocket. A zipped mesh pocket with a key fob is convenient in the smaller main pocket.
Inserted foam in the rear mesh panel provides airflow and breathability. Daypacks featuring swamp-back blues might be troublesome. Fabric-only backpacks cause sweaty backs. Ventilated shoulder straps keep you cool.
The Daylite Plus has a fantastic open-topped storage compartment for coats and other quick-use goods. To finish, a little front zip pouch stores often used goods.
This nice backpack goes for $65. Its low weight makes it one of the best lightweight packs.
Pros
- Excellent quality
- Solidly built
Cons
- This is not a bag for an overnight hike.
- Space is tight for bulky goods in the backpack.
6. Hydraulic 35 (From Sea to Summit)
Specs
- Priced at $169.95
- Weights 2 lbs.
- 35 Liter, volume
- Max Load ranging from 20-25 lbs
Sea to Summit has made a clear and consistent effort in past years to enhance its credibility in this area. Their Hydraulic 35 pack is a perfect fit for travelers.
Despite its name, this pack is a partially-fledged hiking backpack. You should only expect to utilize it for a day trip. It’s a fantastic backpack for individuals who reside in or visit damp areas, such as river operators, kayakers, tourists, and city dwellers.
Hydraulic 35 is impervious to water on all sides, surprisingly light, and has enough room for a laptop, food, a water bottle, and extra clothing.
This bag has a detachable waistbelt and cushioned shoulder strap to make it more convenient to carry—most users like the large, elastic mesh pockets on the outside of the garment.
It is also totally submersible, making it an excellent choice for those who spend a great deal of time in watery places (kayakers, river guides, fishermen, snorkelers, etc.). Few backpacks are waterproof enough to withstand a full-on river dive.
Pros
- Completely watertight
- There is a lifetime guarantee on Sea to Summit products.
Cons
- Not a good pack for hiking
7. Arc Blast (From ZPacks)
Specs
- Priced at $325.00
- Weights 1 lb. 5
- 55 Liter volume capacity
- Max Load 30 lbs
The superlight thru-hiking crowd loves Arc Blast so much that they can patiently wait for their order for over a month, but it is generally about five weeks.
The Arc Blast’s mesh back column air vents provide superior breathability, and the adjustable torso straps ensure a custom fit. The basic model of the Arc Blast is deceptively roomy, listed at 55 liters but feeling more like 40- or 45-liter packs with plenty to pack within.
The trekking pole grips, hip clutch coffers, and inner compartments are not included. But you can request them but at an added cost.
The pack’s fabric is manufactured of a special material called DCF, which makes it water-resistant, but not waterproof.
If you’re a thru-hiker who wants to carry the least amount of weight possible, the Arc Blast will easily be your new best buddy.
Pros
- Lightweight doesn’t compromise quality.
Cons
- Pricey
- It’s annoying that you have to shell out extra cash for your pockets.
8. Gorilla 40 (From Gossamer Gear)
Specs
- Priced at $215
- Weighs 1 lb. 14
- 40 Liter volume capacity
- Max Load 35 lbs.
This pack from Gossamer Gear is ideal for lightweight thru-hikers who want to cover lots of ground while carrying as little gear as possible. This lightweight pack is ideal for long-distance trekkers and may also be used for camping.
You may customize the fit to your body using the hip belts and sleeves. It is characterized by its SitLight pad. You may take out the SitLight and use it as a seat when camping. No one wants to have to sit on a sharp rock when they’re sleepy.
The backpack’s aluminum structure is responsible for its minimal weight without sacrificing structural integrity.
If you choose this pack, you’ll need to commit to the ultralight lifestyle. This does not imply that 40 liters is an insignificant storage capacity. Everything must be minimum in size and weight to get the desired results.
Going entirely lightweight, however, has certain advantages. You can put in some substantial daily mileage when your backpack doesn’t weigh 30 pounds or more.
Pros
- Superior quality
- Robust
Cons
- Mesh pockets may break.
- Hip pouches cost extra.
9. Nomatic Travel Bag
Specs
- Priced from $229 – 279
- Weighs 4 lbs
- 40 Liters volume capacity
- Max Load ranging from 20-30 lbs
Surprisingly, this bag from Nomatic is neither a lightweight backpack nor any hiking bag. It’s not even close to being a backpack of the same kind, yet it nonetheless made the list of best travel bags.
It is currently making waves on the net for its convenient features.
The travel bag has numerous well-designed pockets, sections, and equipment stowaways. A mesh washing bag is included.
Some of its great features are the shearling valuables area, the laptop cover, the top-notch water-resistant fabrics, and the dedicated shoe section (there’s also a dedicated bag for underpants and socks).
Pros
- Minimalist and polished style
- Design that puts thought into it
Cons
- Costly
- The travel bag and accessories cost extra
Choosing an Ultralight Backpack
A wide variety of Ultralight packs is available on the market. Therefore, getting a lightweight backpack that suits your demands is crucial.
Here are the three most vital inquiries you must make of yourself:
- What is the highest ratio between your weight and performance?
- What amount of water will you need?
- How very much are you willing to pay for a superlight backpack?
Below is a list of all the crucial pieces of a superlight bag.
To decide on your best fit, you need to understand what makes a lightweight gear bag amazing in the first place.
Backpack Weight
You probably care about how much your pack weighs since you have dabbled in the vast light big ocean. Or at least cut down on your weight as much as possible.
Choosing an extremely lightweight pack such as the Arc Blast will give you one of the world’s lightest trekking packs. However, the more lightweight the pack, the less durable (and probably uncomfortable) it’ll be. Likewise, the cost is proportional to the weight.
The designers use cheap, low-quality components that will fail long-term to keep the pack weight in check. The whole ultralight community shares the same standard. Lighter backpacking gear, be it a sleeping bag, a down jacket, trekking poles, etc., is always less reliable.
Finding a middle ground between fragility and strength is ideal. The Gregory Optic 48 is a fantastic compromise between the two.
Backpack Price
Ultralight outdoor gear tends to be more costly than standard options. The lightest and most costly backpacks are often also the most costly.
It’s important to consider how often you’ll use this ultralight pack when deciding how much to spend on it. Whether you’re planning a huge thru-hike, a Europe tour, or simply looking for something awesome day out, you’ll need a quality pack.
There will be a wide range of possible prices depending on the specifics of each situation. Packing light is essential if you intend to hike hundreds of kilometers in one go, so consider the Crown V.C. 60. Just as the Eja 48 is the best backpack for a European backpacking trip, so is it for a trip to the United States.
Overall, the cost of an ultralight backpack is heavily influenced by its intended use. You need to decide what it is you want to perform before determining how much it will cost.
Backpack Fit and Comfort
Lightweight backpacking packs are less comfy than full-sized, padded backpacks designed for trekking. In contrast to bulkier backpacks, ultralight backpacks have minimal cushioning.
The lightweight backpack manufacturers strive to pare down their products as much as possible while creating at least passably comfortable packs. However, the majority of lightweight bags do not include a suspension mechanism.
The less weight you carry, the less comfy your bag will be. Ultra-light backpacks often consist of only the bare essentials. What you sacrifice in comfort is made up for by the pleasant sensation of floating through space.
All the packs in this roundup are rather accommodating, with a few exceptions. Before purchasing a lightweight backpack online, you must take your waist and torso measurements. In this manner, you may rest assured that you’ll have the ideal fit.
Backpack Breathability
An additional feature of the backpack to research and consider is its ventilation. When hiking, your body produces a lot of perspiration. So, to keep your back from overheating, go for a pack with a ventilation system.
A well-ventilated back panel, such as the one on the Eja 48, is a welcome addition. The rear panel and frame have enough space and mesh holes to prevent condensation from building up.
A well-made, lightweight backpack will always include some venting for air circulation.
Backpack Volume and Carrying Capacity
As the name implies, a lightweight pack is designed to reduce the weight of your load. The experience of carrying pounds in a pack that weighs only two pounds will be a challenging one.
Those who like to travel with only the barest essentials have no room for extra gear in their lightweight backpacks.
The same is true with lightweight backpacks; they were made to carry little weight. Overstuffing an ultralight pack will cause it to either fail or make the walk unbearable for the wearer. The 60-liter capacity of the Crown V.C. 60 is respectable for a pack of its size and weight.
But if you’re dead set on being a member of the ultralight club, you must commit to becoming a more modest traveler.
Backpack Design
It’s more of a matter of taste when deciding what design to use. Ultralight packs focus on functionality and efficiency to be as lightweight as possible. For example, because daypacks don’t weigh very much, the designers have greater leeway to incorporate interesting details.
On the other hand, lighter backpacks are built to withstand heavy use. You should be able to fit all of your goods inside them in a sensible, orderly fashion.
The Optic 48 has several useful organizing features that make it an excellent choice for travelers, and it deserves to applaud for that. Aside from price, weight, and size, design should be your next priority.
Backpack Durability
Backpacks designed to be ultralight may need more durability than heavier models. When hiking with ultralight equipment, you can’t just throw it in a regular backpack and expect it to hold up.
A large rip (and subsequent regret) or piercing for the fragile lightweight fabric might happen from crashing it on the pavement, pulling it over the floor, or striking it against prickly blackberry shrubs.
Ripstop Nylon or Braided nylon Laminated Fabric is the usual fabric for lightweight packs. Both can withstand some rain and even a few good snags without succumbing. Make an extra effort to safeguard your bag, and you’ll be alright.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please see below for a list and explanations of our most frequently asked questions. As for the most popular inquiries, they center on the following:
What is the lightest lightweight backpack?
The Arc Blast from ZPacks is possibly the lightest pack in the industry; it weighs a mere pound. It’s a renowned ultralight backpack because it can carry 30 pounds and has a 40-45L capacity.
Is it worth it to buy an ultralight backpack?
Buying an ultralight bag for traveling is worth it. Carrying less weight makes it simpler to walk about. A lightweight backpack ( a high-quality one) may be a lifesaver on lengthy walks and trips.
How much do ultralight backpacks weigh?
Typical lightweight backpacks weigh slightly more than 1 pound. However, the weight of your pack also relies on its size. Ultra-light bags typically weigh between 1.7 and 3 pounds.
Are lightweight packs long-lasting?
A lightweight backpack is sometimes of inferior quality. Unless you’re on a strict budget, lightweight backpacks are often constructed from robust materials, making them extremely durable and dependable.
Final Thoughts
Ultralight backpacks can be great for hiking, especially if you want to minimize your gear’s weight. However, it’s essential to remember that ultralight backpacks may have some features and support for heavier packs, such as a sturdy frame or many pockets. This can make them less suitable for carrying larger loads or for more rugged terrain.
It’s a good idea to consider your needs and the type of hiking carefully you will do before deciding on an ultralight backpack. An ultralight pack might be a good choice if you plan on short day hikes with minimal gear. However, if you need to carry a lot of gear or supplies or tackle more challenging terrain, consider a pack with more support and features.