Finding the right pack for a day on the trails can be surprisingly tricky. You want something light and nimble, but it still needs to carry your essentials comfortably. That’s where a well-designed small hiking backpack comes in—it’s the perfect middle ground for those shorter adventures when a giant pack is just overkill.
We tested a popular model on several local hikes to see how it holds up. From water bottle pockets to organization panels, we’ll break down if it really has the features you need, or if it’s just another bag taking up space in your gear closet. Let’s get into the details.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Small Hiking Backpack
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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BECOJADDE 15L Small Hiking Backpack for Men Women Foldable…
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9.6 |
Read Review |
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EgoNova 12L Ultralight & Thin Packable Daypack, Small Foldable…
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9.4 |
Read Review |
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TUIKEN Small Hiking Backpack 10L- Lightweight Packable Foldable Backpack…
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9.2 |
Read Review |
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G4Free 10L/15L Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Hiking Daypack Small…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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HIGH EXPERIENCE Hiking Backpack 10L/15L Small Daypack Lightweight Packable…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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DOJUNS Hiking Backpack 15L Small Travel Backpack Lightweight Foldable…
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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Osprey Ultralight Collapsible Stuff Pack – Lightweight, Packable Travel…
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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SKYSPER 15L Foldable Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Travel Daypack…
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8.2 |
Read Review |
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UtiaMiaoGonGo 15L Small Hiking Backpack Travel Daypack Colorful Lightweight…
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8.0 |
Read Review |
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sunhiker Small Hiking Backpack Women Men 20L Lightweight Travel…
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7.8 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Small Hiking Backpack
BECOJADDE 15L Small Hiking Backpack for Men Women Foldable Packable Back Pack Ultralight Hiking Daypack for Travel Camping Outdoor, Beige
The BECOJADDE 15L Small Hiking Backpack is designed for the adventurer who values simplicity and smart design. This foldable daypack is an ultralight companion, ready for anything from a day on the trail to urban exploration. Its beige color offers a neutral, versatile look that works for anyone.
Let’s start with the unique strap design. The left shoulder strap has a handy zippered phone pocket, giving you instant access without stopping.
The right strap features a drawstring pocket, perfect for small items like keys or snacks. Both straps are made with breathable mesh to keep you comfortable, and they’re reinforced at key stress points so you don’t have to worry about them breaking under load.
Security and fit are crucial, which is where the adjustable chest belt comes in. You can fine-tune it vertically and around your chest for a snug, secure feel that prevents the pack from bouncing.
A clever added touch is that the buckle doubles as a survival whistle—a small feature that could be a big help in an emergency situation.
Durability meets packability in this bag. It’s crafted from a fabric that resists tears and scratches, so it can handle rough use. Yet, it folds down incredibly small into its own zippered pocket, shrinking to a compact 7×6.3 inches. Unfolded, it offers a spacious 15 liters of capacity with dimensions of 17.7x11x5.1 inches.
EgoNova 12L Ultralight & Thin Packable Daypack, Small Foldable Hiking Backpack Travel Bag, Water Resistant Day Pack for Men Women
The EgoNova 12L Ultralight & Thin Packable Daypack is designed for the traveler or adventurer who values simplicity and smart packing. Its core philosophy is about having a reliable, extra bag ready whenever you need it, without it ever being a burden to carry or store. At the heart of this backpack is its incredible portability. It weighs a mere 0.39 pounds and folds into its own pocket, shrinking down to about the size of a small book.
This makes it an ideal personal item for airlines, easily stashing under the seat, or tucking into a corner of your main luggage. When you arrive, it unfolds in seconds to its full 12-liter capacity, ready to carry your daily essentials. You’ll appreciate not having to pay extra baggage fees just because you needed a day bag at your destination. Durability is key for a pack meant for active use.
The EgoNova is constructed from a tough, rip-resistant polyester fabric with reinforced stitching at stress points, so it can handle being stuffed and packed repeatedly. The zippers are smooth, heavy-duty metal, built for rugged use. The material also offers a good level of water-resistance, protecting your gear from sudden drizzles or splashes (though it’s important to note it’s not fully waterproof for submersion). Organization is straightforward and practical.
TUIKEN Small Hiking Backpack 10L- Lightweight Packable Foldable Backpack for Travel Camping Outdoor Commute, Compact Rucksack for Women Men(Beige)
The TUIKEN Small Hiking Backpack 10L is a study in smart, portable design. It’s built for those who need a reliable daypack that can appear when needed and disappear when it’s not. At its core, this backpack solves a simple problem: having a bag ready for anything without it taking up precious space in your luggage or main pack. Its magic lies in its fabric and foldability.
Made from a tough, tear-resistant material that shrugs off scratches, this backpack is suprisingly durable for its weight of just 0.73 pounds. When you’re done using it, it folds neatly into its own built-in zippered pocket, becoming a pouch roughly the size of your palm. You can tuck it into a suitcase corner or a larger backpack’s pocket, then unfold it to its full 15.5”x9”x3.5” dimensions whenever a day trip calls. Comfort and convenience are thoughtfully integrated.
The breathable shoulder straps have mesh padding to reduce pressure and keep you cool. They also include clever touches like an integrated zippered phone pocket and a headphone port on one side, plus a small drawstring pouch on the other for bits and bobs. For active use, the dual-adjust chest strap is a key feature. You can fine-tune its height and tightness to lock the pack securely to your body, distributing weight and minimizing bounce during hikes, runs, or bike rides.
G4Free 10L/15L Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Hiking Daypack Small Travel Outdoor Foldable Shoulder Bag
The G4Free 10L/15L Hiking Backpack is a lesson in smart, practical design for anyone who needs a reliable extra bag that takes up almost no space. Its core idea is simple: be ready for anything without being weighed down. When you need it, it’s a fully functional 15-liter backpack. When you don’t, it tucks neatly into its own inner pocket, shrinking to a compact 7.5 x 6 inches.
This means you can easily pack it flat in your suitcase or another bag, forgotten until the moment you need an extra carry-on to avoid fees, or a handy daypack after you’ve reached your destination.
Despite its packable nature, this bag doesn’t compromise on utility. It features a main compartment that’s suprisingly roomy for essentials like a light jacket, a book, or snacks.
There’s a front pocket for quick-grab items like keys or a phone, plus two side pockets that are perfect for a water bottle or umbrella, helping to keep your things organized and seperated. The entire backpack weighs just over half a pound, so adding it to your load is barely noticeable, which is a huge plus on long travel days or hikes.
Durability is where this daypack really stands out.
HIGH EXPERIENCE Hiking Backpack 10L/15L Small Daypack Lightweight Packable Travel Foldable Water Resistan for Women Men (Black, 10L)
The HIGH EXPERIENCE Hiking Backpack 10L is a thoughtfully designed daypack that prioritizes convenience and adaptability for your active life. Its core philosophy is simple: to be a reliable, go-anywhere bag that you can always have on hand without it becoming a burden.
At the heart of its design is the incredible portability. Weighing less than a pound, this backpack folds down into a compact bundle roughly the size of a small water bottle.
This means you can easily stow it in a suitcase, a larger backpack, a glove compartment, or even a desk drawer. It’s there when you need it for an impromptu adventure or as a secondary bag during travel, and out of the way when you don’t. The 10-liter capacity is suprisingly spacious for its size, perfectly sized for carrying your daily essentials, a light layer, snacks, and a camera.
Organization is key for any daypack, and this one offers smart solutions.
It features multiple pockets to help keep your items sorted and accessible. A particularly handy feature is the removable phone pouch attached to the left shoulder strap, giving you quick access without needing to take the pack off. On the opposite strap, a stretchy elastic pouch is ideal for holding a water bottle or energy bar, keeping your hands free.
DOJUNS Hiking Backpack 15L Small Travel Backpack Lightweight Foldable Daypack Packable Camping Backpacks for Women Men (Orange)
The DOJUNS Hiking Backpack 15L is a small, lightweight daypack designed for ultimate convenience and versatility. Its core idea is simple: to be a reliable, go-anywhere bag that you can take anywhere without it taking up space itself. If you need a secondary pack for daily adventures or travel essentials, this model offers a practical solution that focuses on portability and comfort. A key feature of this backpack is its foldable design.
When not in use, it compresses down into its own small pouch, measuring roughly 7.5 by 6.5 inches. This makes it incredibly easy to tuck into a larger suitcase, your work backpack, or a car glove compartment. You can forget it’s there until you need it—then, it unfolds to provide a full 15 liters of storage. Despite this capacity, the bag itself weighs only 0.4 pounds, so it adds almost no extra burden.
The material is a durable, water-resistant nylon that can handle a sudden drizzle, helping to keep your items like a book, tablet, or a light jacket dry. The zippers are sturdy SBS metal, chosen for reliable performance over time. Comfort is a priority in the ergonomic design. The back panel and adjustable shoulder straps are crafted to fit the body’s contours, helping to stabilize the load.
Osprey Ultralight Collapsible Stuff Pack – Lightweight, Packable Travel Backpack — Extra Bag For Travel and Every Day — 18 L Capacity Daypack to Expand Luggage, Black
The Osprey Ultralight Collapsible Stuff Pack is a travel essential designed to solve a common problem: needing an extra bag when you’re on the move. It’s primary purpose is to be your just-in-case bag, packed away until the moment you need it. This 18-liter daypack collapses into its own pocket, becoming a small, flat pouch that weighs just over five ounces.
You can tuck it into the corner of your suitcase or carry-on, and forget its there until your destination.
Once you arrive, it unfolds to become a fully functional backpack for day trips, hiking, or as a market bag. It’s perfect for carrying a light jacket, a water bottle, your camera, and souvenirs. On your return journey, it serves as that crucial extra bag for overflow, helping you organize and expand your luggage capacity without checking another bag.
The simplicity of having a reliable pack on demand cannot be overstated for frequent travelers.
Construction is where Osprey’s commitment shines. The main fabric is bluesign APPROVED and made from 100% recycled, high-tenacity nylon. This means the materials meet strict enviornmental and safety standards. The company has overhauled its accessories to reduce environmental impact, which is a thoughtful touch.
SKYSPER 15L Foldable Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Travel Daypack with Chest Strap Small Outdoor Folding Back Pack Collapsible Bag for Women Men (Black)
The SKYSPER 15L Foldable Hiking Backpack is designed to be your go-to bag for daily adventures and spontaneous trips. Its core idea is simple: provide reliable, organized storage in a package that practically disappears when your not using it. This makes it an incredibly versatile piece of gear for anyone who values preparedness without the bulk.
Let’s talk about organization, because a messy bag can ruin a good day.
This pack features a large main compartment with a wide opening, so you can easily see and reach everything inside. It also includes three zippered pockets for securing valuables like your phone, wallet, or keys, plus a hidden back pocket for an extra layer of security. Two side mesh pockets, each 7.5 inches high, are perfect for a water bottle or umbrella, keeping them accessable without taking up interior space.
Everything has its place, which helps you stay efficient on the move.
Comfort is key, even for short hikes or long days of sightseeing. This daypack includes an upgraded chest strap, which is a significant feature for stability. It helps distribute the weight more evenly across your shoulders and back, reducing strain and preventing the straps from slipping. The built-in safety whistle on the chest strap is a thoughtful touch for outdoor safety.
UtiaMiaoGonGo 15L Small Hiking Backpack Travel Daypack Colorful Lightweight Packable Foldable Casual Backpack for Women Men
The UtiaMiaoGonGo 15L Small Hiking Backpack is a versatile daypack designed to simplify your adventures, whether you’re hitting the trail or exploring a new city. Its thoughtful features focus on accessibility, organization, and portability, making it a reliable companion for a wide range of activities.
A standout feature is the unique strap design. Instead of fumbling with your pack, you can access essentials directly from the shoulder straps.
The left strap has a zippered pocket that fits phones up to 7 inches, while the right has a handy drawstring pouch for items like keys or energy bars. This smart design keeps your valuables secure and within easy reach, which is a real game-changer when you’re on the move.
Inside, smart storage compartments help you stay organized. The backpack features two main zippered sections for larger items like clothing or gear.
An expandable front pocket is perfect for a light layer or towel, and a discreet hidden pocket on the back offers security for a wallet or passport. Two mesh side pockets conveniently hold a water bottle or umbrella, ensuring everything has its place.
One of the packs most practical aspects is its foldable, space-saving design. When not in use, it compacts down to a small bundle roughly the size of a softball, weighing only 13.4 ounces.
sunhiker Small Hiking Backpack Women Men 20L Lightweight Travel Backpack Daypack Casual Backpack For Cycling Outdoor Camping
The Sunhiker Small Hiking Backpack is a 20L lightweight pack designed for those who prioritize simplicity and mobility. If you’re someone who likes to travel light, carrying just the essentials for a day out, this backpack’s compact size and thoughtful design could be a great fit for your adventures. First, lets talk size and weight. This is a small backpack, measuring 15.8 x 9.4 x 5.9 inches and weighing only 12.3 ounces.
That capacity of roughly 20-25 liters is perfect for a jacket, a lunch, some gear, and a water bottle—ideal for day hikes, cycling, or a trip to a theme park. It’s a unisex design suitable for both men and women, and can even work for older children. Just be sure to check the dimensions to confirm it meets your needs before you choose it. The material is a key feature.
Its made from durable nylon fabric that’s been treated with a waterproof coating, offering good protection against light rain and splashes. This nylon is chosen for its abrasion resistance, meaning it can handle the occasional scrape against a rock or being set down on rough surfaces. Plus, it’s breathable, lightweight, and easy to wipe clean if it gets dirty, which is a practical bonus. Comfort is crucial, and the Sunhiker pays attention to those details.
Small Hiking Backpack Buying Guide
A small hiking backpack are perfect for short trips and essentials. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? You don’t need a massive pack for a few hours on the trail. The goal is to carry your water, snacks, and a light layer comfortably. This guide will help you focus on what really matters for your day hikes.
Capacity and Fit
Think about what you actually carry. For most day hikes, a 10 to 25-liter capacity is plenty. It should fit a hydration reservoir, your lunch, and a rain jacket. More importantly, the pack must fit *you*. Look for adjustable shoulder straps and a sternum strap. A good fit transfers weight to your hips, not your shoulders, making a huge difference in comfort by the end of the day.
Material and Durability
Your pack will brush against rocks and branches. You need fabric that can handle it. Ripstop nylon is a popular choice because it’s lightweight yet strong. Check the denier rating (like 100D or 420D); a higher number generally means a tougher fabric. The bottom of the pack takes the most abuse, so reinforced material there is a smart feature to look for.
Organization and Access
Frustrated by digging for your keys at the trailhead? Good organization solves that. Main compartments vary: some open like a suitcase (panel-loading), which is great for packing, while others are top-loading. External pockets are key. Look for stretchy side pockets for water bottles and a handy front pocket for snacks or a map. A separate hydration sleeve is almost essential now.
Ventilation and Extras
Nothing ruins a hike faster than a sweaty, sticky back. Many modern packs use a suspended mesh back panel that creates an air gap between you and the pack. It’s a game-changer on warm days. Also, consider little extras. Does it have gear loops for trekking poles? Is there a rain cover included or stowed away? These features can really add to your experience on the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Hiking Backpack
What size is considered a small hiking backpack?
A small hiking backpack is typically between 10 to 30 liters. This size is perfect for short day hikes where you just need the essentials. It’s not meant for overnight trips, but it will carry your water, snacks, layers, and a first-aid kit comfortably.
What features should I look for?
Focus on comfort and practicality. Look for padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel. Side pockets for water bottles are a must. A hip belt can help distribute weight, even on a small pack. Other handy features include a hydration sleeve and some external lash points.
Can I use a regular school backpack for hiking?
You can, but a dedicated hiking pack is better. They’re designed for better weight distribution and comfort over longer periods. The materials are also more durable and often water-resistant. A school bag might leave you with sore shoulders quicker.
How do I ensure a good fit?
Fit is super important, even for small packs. Your backpack should sit comfortably on your shoulders without pulling you backwards. The hip belt, if it has one, should rest on your hip bones. Many brands offer torso sizing, so it’s worth checking their charts if your able.
Is waterproofing neccessary?
While many packs use water-resistant fabrics, they’re rarely fully waterproof. It’s a good idea to pack your electronics and extra clothes in a simple plastic bag or a dry sack inside the backpack. This keeps everything safe if you get caught in a surprise rain shower.
How much should I expect to spend?
You can find decent options for around $40 to $100. Paying a bit more often gets you higher-quality materials, better comfort features, and more durable zippers. Think of it as an investment for many adventures to come.
Are there packs specifically for women?
Yes, many brands offer women-specific designs. These packs are often scaled for a shorter torso and have shoulder straps contoured for a woman’s frame. They provide a more tailored fit, which can make a big difference in comfort on the trail.
The Short Answer
Choosing the right gear is about getting out the door with confidence. A well-chosen pack removes friction from your adventure, letting you focus on the trail and the views. It’s a simple tool with a big job: to carry your essentials comfortably so you can wander a little further and stay out a bit longer.
Remember, the best small hiking backpack is the one that fits you well and suits your typical trips. It should feel like a natural extension of yourself, not a burden. Test it with weight, adjust the straps, and make sure it holds what you need. Once you find your match, you’re ready for countless trails. Now, all that’s left to do is go.