Summer daypacks

When the weather is warmer and your load is lighter, a comfortable pack is exactly what you need to carry your on-hill kit. From fully-featured gear haulers to ultralight backpacks, here are eight of the best sized 20 to 30-litre options.

KEY FEATURES

FRAME

The frame provides rigidity and stability. Ultralight packs may be completely frameless, but other daypacks have an internal frame made from spring steel or aluminium. To save weight, others use a high-density plastic framesheet or a stiffened foam back panel. With lighter loads for summer day hikes, the importance of a strong, load-bearing back system is lessened.

POCKETS Zippered hipbelt pockets are handy for stashing gear you’ll need on-the-go. Internal zippered pockets are great for car keys or a wallet, and elasticated side pockets are perfect for water bottles. Some packs also feature large pockets made from stretchy mesh and a pocket (or sleeve) for a hydration bladder, as well as an outlet for the drinking hose.

HARNESS

The shoulder straps, hipbelt and chest strap form the harness, which is key to carrying comfort and load stability. Shoulder straps should fit comfortably and be adjustable to your body shape. Padding thickness and contouring will affect the overall load-bearing comfort. A sternum strap enables lateral connection of the shoulder straps to boost comfort and stability, while load lifter straps adjust how close it is to your back. A padded, curved hipbelt will help transfer strain from your back and shoulders to the hips.

WEATHER RESISTANCE Backpacks are usually made from water-resistant materials and the fabrics will often withstand a heavy shower or two. But they aren’t infallible (particularly when seams aren’t sealed or external zippers are exposed). Some packs come with integrated raincovers, while others are better paired with a waterproof pack liner.

LID

The lid covers the main opening. Some are fixed to the pack, while others are detachable with a ‘floating’ design. A current trend is towards lidless packs.

STRAPS External compression straps, webbing loops, toggles and bungee cords can be used for attaching items such as trekking poles and camping gear to the outside of your pack.

VENTILATION

Many manufacturers claim their back systems are brilliantly ventilated and will stop you sweating. But, in practice, when you’re powering uphill, you’re likely to get sweaty whatever pack you’re using. The best packs for ventilation use a trampolinestyle suspended mesh, which creates an air channel between your back and the backpack. Others employ channels or vents within the padding to slightly improve ventilation, with varying degrees of success.

SIZING

It’s vital to pick a backpack with a size appropriate for your torso length. Trying on a loaded pack is the easiest way to do this. Some backpacks come in various length options, some are adjustable via webbing straps or Velcro, and some come in only one size.

BACK SYSTEMS

Back panels made from perforated foam or padding carry the load directly next to the body. This approach is comfy and stable, with a close-to-the-body feel. Suspended mesh back panels, conversely, hold the pack’s bulk away from your back, which some hikers prefer, but can feel like the load is levering away from you. It’s all down to personal preference.