Best Daypack UK – One Bag To Rule Them All
Are you planning an outdoor day trip? This review of the best daypack UK is what you need to study to find the optimum bag for your belongings. Investing in a daypack (small to medium sized rucksack) goes a long way in finding a secure and convenient pack for your essential items. A good quality daypack doesn’t only store your items; its design promotes more comfort with less bulkiness.
So, whether you are day hiking, biking, or visiting the museum, a daypack is an essential item to have. We’ve tested several models in the past few months to find the best options in the market.
See our Camping Secrets rucksack glossary and guide to choosing a rucksack.
- Most Features
- Great Value
- Versatile
- Adjustable
- Robust
- Feature Rich
- Great Price
- Key Features
- Simple But Effective
We believe a good daypack is a must-have for anyone who needs a practical and comfortable way to carry essentials without the bulk of a larger backpack. It offers convenience, providing just enough space to hold items like water bottles, snacks, a jacket, or maybe a laptop, making it perfect for hiking, commuting, or travelling.
Comfort is key with daypacks, as they come with padded straps, breathable back panels, and adjustable features that evenly distribute weight, reducing strain on your back and shoulders.
Built for durability, many daypacks use weather-resistant materials, ensuring your belongings stay safe in unpredictable conditions. Overall, a daypack combines convenience, organization, comfort, and durability, making it an essential tool for daily use and outdoor adventures.
The review below outlines our selection for the best daypack in the UK from the tested models.
Osprey Talon 22L Daypack
Details
We included the Osprey Talon 22 Daypack as it is at the higher end of the price bracket to see what extras it may have. It is a nice looking piece of kit but does it challenge our other daypack choices? Could it be the best daypack in the UK? As we evaluated this pack, it became clear that it’s designed with both comfort and functionality in mind, making it a reliable companion for a range of activities.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Talon 22 is its back panel (AirScape™). This moulded foam design, as opposed to a metal framework, provides a stable and breathable, close-to-body fit without the sweaty back feeling. The continuous-wrap harness and hip belt, featuring the flexible Osprey’s BioStretch system, allow for unrestricted movement, which we found particularly valuable when tackling technical terrain. The pack’s lightweight construction, paired with these dynamic features, ensures that it stays securely in place, even during intense activity.
The Talon 22’s multi-sport functionality is another strong point. It comes equipped with thoughtful features such as trekking pole and ice axe attachment points, a LidLock bike helmet attachment, and numerous stretch mesh pockets for quick access to essentials. This makes it an excellent choice for hikers, bikers, and other outdoor activities when you need a single pack that can adapt to various demands.
Moreover, Osprey’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the use of their recycled high tenacity nylon, which aligns with the growing demand for environmentally responsible products.
However, potential buyers should consider a few factors before purchasing. The 22 litre capacity might be limiting for those needing to carry bulkier gear, and while the close-to-body fit enhances stability, it might feel too snug for individuals who prefer a looser carry. The Osprey Talon also is very slightly heavier than the average daypack for its size due to the quality of materials used.
Overall, we found the Osprey Talon 22 to be an exceptional daypack for those who prioritize comfort and sustainability in their outdoor gear and don’t mind forking out for it. The Talon has a well thought out design and uses durable materials making it a worthy investment for anyone wanting a small and very versatile daypack.
Regatta Survivor V4 25L Daypack
Details
The Regatta Survivor V4 25L Daypack is currently one of the cheapest daypacks in our collection but does it lose much in the way of features or quality? We found the Regatta Survivor V4 25L Daypack to be a reasonably robust and comfortable daypack and does come with some handy features.
The daypack has a hardwearing 600D polyester ripstop fabric to combat any scrapes you may get into. There is daisy chain webbing, particularly useful for climbers and handy to attach all sorts of gear. There are two outer pockets on each side that can carry water bottles but no internal hydration compatible pocket or retainer.
The 25 Litres daypack should be large enough to carry a packable waterproof jacket, a mid layer fleece and some sarnies for your lunch. The outer straps can hold walking poles and the zippers have large pull tabs so even when you have gloves on you can easily gain access to the main area of the daypack. The main compartment is one big area with no organiser pockets or sections but access is gained through a wide aperture with a well designed opening zip at the top of the bag.
The Regatta Survivor V4 Daypack is not waterproof and does not come with a waterproof cover but the covers can be purchased separately. Given the price, this is a good versatile daypack that would suit hikers, city commuters and gym goers but without the waist or hip strap climbing, scrambling and cycling is made tricky with instability issues.
One downside we noticed is that the shoulder straps are fairly close together at the top of the bag so if you are broad shouldered you may want to consider a bag that has a gap between them or some way to loosen them off a little bit. Overall the Regatta Survivor V4 is a good daypack for the price but does lack in some areas that will restrict some activities.
Berghaus TwentyFourSeven 25L Daypack
Details
Berghaus is a great outdoor gear brand so we could not wait to review this small hiking rucksack. The TwentyFourSeven 25L Daypack is versatile and durable, ideal for a day hiking in the hills, a day trip out to the countryside or a city commute. Constructed from polyester fabric, this daypack is tough enough for handling a variety of outdoor activities. With a 25 litre capacity, it offers ample space for essentials, making it a solid choice for day-long adventures.
One of the key features we appreciated is this is a very lightweight daypack, which doesn’t compromise on comfort. The adjustable chest strap ensures a snug fit, while the foam and air mesh shoulder straps add to the overall comfort. However, it’s important to note that the pack lacks a waist or hip strap, which could have provided additional support during longer hikes. The lack of this strap also makes this daypack less suitable for cycling and scrambling activities.
The bag is compatible with the hydration system, allowing you to stay hydrated easily on the go with its internal storage pocket and drinking tube retainer. We also found the two elasticated external pockets ideal for carrying water bottles, along with daisy chain loops that make it easy to attach additional gear. The big top zip grants easy access to the main compartment, while the internal organizer pockets and key clip help keep smaller items secure and well organized.
Another practical feature is the reflective detailing, which enhances visibility during low light conditions. However, the lack of a hip strap might be a drawback for those looking for advanced support and stability.
Overall, the Berghaus TwentyFourSeven 25L Daypack offers a reliable, lightweight, and functional solution, though its minimal design might not suit those needing extra carrying support or waterproofing so it did not get into our top spot for best daypack UK.
Deuter Walker 24L Daypack
Details
We recently had the chance to review the Deuter Walker 24L Daypack, and overall, we were quite impressed with its performance, particularly for everyday use and is well considered as the best hiking daypack for many.
The Walker 24L is made with PFC-free fabrics, which not only resist water and dirt but also help increase the lifespan of the bag. However, it’s important to note that while the material is water-repellent, the daypack lacks a waterproof cover, making it less suitable for serious outdoor adventures in unpredictable weather.
The Soft-Edge shoulder straps and Deuter’s Airstripes back system provide some ventilation to help during long days. The bag is also equipped with a removable waist belt and an adjustable chest strap, allowing for a customizable fit.
The Walker 24L offers flexible storage options, including a rear slot pocket for a 15.6″ laptop, which can be accessed from both the inside and through a side zip. The large zipped front pocket with an organizer is perfect for storing smaller items like a mobile phone, wallet, and keys, while the elasticated side pocket is great for holding a water bottle or umbrella. Unfortunately, the bag doesn’t have walking pole holders or a hydration system, which limits its use for more serious hiking activities.
In summary, while the Deuter Walker 24L Daypack may not be the best choice for intense hiking, it shines as a versatile and stylish option for everyday use. It’s perfect for commuting, city travels, a dry day out in the countryside and general urban adventures, offering both functionality and comfort in a compact, well-designed package.
Regatta Blackfell lll 25L Daypack
Details
We found the Blackfell III 25L Daypack to be a robust, comfortable, and versatile choice for hiking, day trips, or indeed many other activities. Built from hardwearing polyester fabric, this daypack is designed to withstand the many demands of a small rucksack. The 25 litre capacity provides ample space for all the usual essentials and more, making it a practical companion for day-long adventures.
Comfort is a key feature of the Blackfell III, with EVA foam and air mesh shoulder straps that ensure a snug fit, a metal back frame for support complemented by an adjustable sliding chest harness and a wide, air mesh hip belt that hugs the hips for added stability. We found it very easy to get a good fit. The mesh-vented Stream Air back system promotes airflow, to keep cool during strenuous activities and did help in keeping us cool and dry.
For hydration, the daypack includes a very handy internal hydration storage pocket and a drinking tube retainer, making it easy to stay hydrated on the go. Additional features include walking pole loops, side compression straps, an internal hydration storage pocket and drinking tube retainer, reflective detail, an internal key clip, soft micro mesh water bottle pockets and top it off it has a detachable waterproof rain cover.
However, the Blackfell III does have a minor drawback and that is the whopping 1100 grams compared to lighter daypacks we found available around the 500 grams mark. The absence of chain straps means it may not be ideal for more demanding activities like climbing.
Overall, the Blackfell III 25L Daypack is a well-rounded, feature rich option and is a durable and comfortable daypack if just a little heavy.
Vango Trail 25L Daypack
Details
The Vango Trail 25L Daypack offers a blend of ECO recycled materials, metal buckles and modern styling, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate both aesthetics and performance. Made from durable Vintage Excel® Eco Fabric, made from recycled single-use plastic, is a great way to help sustainability.
In terms of functionality, the Trail 25L excels in several areas. The Duraflex aluminium buckles are both strong and reliable, while the webbed zip pullers make it easy to access your belongings on the go. Comfort is also a priority, with a shaped adjustable harness and sternum strap that provide a secure and comfortable fit, even on longer hikes. The top lid pocket and security pocket under the lid are perfect for storing essentials, and the walking pole attachments add a layer of safety for those venturing into more rugged terrain. The detachable rain cover, conveniently stored in the base of the pack, ensures that your gear stays dry and enhances visibility in low light conditions.
However, the Vango Trail 25L does have some notable shortcomings. The absence of a hydration system compartment and water bottle holder pockets significantly limits its versatility for longer hikes or more intense outdoor activities. These missing features are particularly disappointing for a daypack of this calibre, and they detract from its overall utility in scenarios where staying hydrated is crucial.
Overall, while the Vango Trail 25L Daypack impresses with its design, durability, and thoughtful features, the lack of hydration options makes it less versatile than it could be, which affects its overall performance score in our review.
3 Pack Dry Bags
This set of three dry bags, sized 8L, 6L, and 3L, are made from ultralight, waterproof ripstop fabric. Heat-taped seams ensure they are completely watertight, while the stiffened roll-down top provides a secure seal, keeping your gear dry. The dimensions are as follows: 8L (18cm diameter x 42cm tall), 6L (24cm diameter x 30cm tall), and 3L (19cm diameter x 24cm tall). The entire set weighs just 82 grams, making it an ideal choice for lightweight, reliable waterproof storage.
Highlander Summit 25L Daypack
Details
The Highlander Summit 25L Daypack is a feature rich rucksack designed to meet the demands of a vast array of outdoor activities. This daypack is constructed from 300D Dobby Ripstop Nylon fabric, which is tough, abrasion-resistant, and coated with a water-resistant PU layer to protect your gear from the elements.
The wire-frame air vented back system is not so common on the smaller rucksacks. It helps promote airflow and moisture evaporation, keeping you cool and dry during intense activity. The adjustable padded shoulder straps, hip belt, and chest strap with an emergency whistle buckle ensure a secure and comfortable fit, even during prolonged use. For hydration, there are two stretch side pockets for water bottles and the bag is hydration system compatible. The hip belt has pockets and there is an internal mesh pocket with a key clip. The top-loading attachment loops and the Pole Park system provide quick access to walking poles and ice axes, enhancing the pack’s functionality for more technical adventures.
One of the unique features of the Summit 25L is the internal divider in the main compartment, which allows you to separate wet and dry gear efficiently. While this feature is ideal for those who prefer organized packing, it may not appeal to users who prefer a single, large compartment for stowing all their gear.
Overall, the Highlander Summit 25L Daypack is a robust and versatile choice for outdoor activities. Its thoughtful design, combined with durable materials and ample storage options, makes it an excellent choice for hikers and climbers.
Tribord Waterproof 25L Daypack
Details
This Tribord Waterproof 25L daypack caught our eye for obvious reasons. The colour and material make this bag stand out. Interestingly it was built for sailing. It is advertised on some websites as being waterproof so we thought we should check this out as it could be great for wet days out in the hills.
We discovered that the fabric is classed as water repellent by the manufacturer and that the zips are not actually waterproof. In practice, the bag is actually very good at keeping out the wet weather for a lot longer compared to more traditional daypacks. It will keep your belongings dry for a while in the rain but in a torrential downpour, a rain cover is essential.
The zipped areas are particularly susceptible to leakage compared to the main fabric but less so than other daypacks as the zips have taped protection to reduce the overall ingress of water considerably. So this is a great bag for sailing to withstand a certain amount of splashes on a dry weather day but still not built for a persistent rainy day in the great outdoors.
There is a full height/width slim compartment at the front of the bag with a pencil case sized mesh zipped pocket inside. The rear compartment is larger with sections suitable for a laptop and a tablet plus room for a packed lunch and packable waterproof jacket. There is a hand sized zipped pocket for phones, keys etc inside the main compartment and two mesh side pockets on the outside of the bag great for water bottles. There is also a carry handle on the top of the bag for easy carry.
This bag will keep out the rain for a lot longer than a typical daypack but is not completely waterproof just water repellent.
Rain Cover For 20 Litre to 40 Litre Daypack
This waterproof cover from Decathlon offers excellent value and is essential for wet weather protection. Crafted from coated polyester fabric, it effectively shields your backpack from rain, ensuring your gear stays dry. Additionally, the integrated storage pocket provides easy access to essentials, making it both practical and reliable for your outdoor adventures.
Suitable for 20L – 40L Rucksack – Backpack – Daysack – Daypack
Quechua NH Escape 500 32L Daypack
Details
We included the Quechua NH Escape 500 32L Daypack to explore an alternative option that might not typically be considered for walks or hikes. We decided to put it to the test to see how it would perform. Surprisingly, this daypack proved to be a versatile and functional choice, not just for outdoor activities, but also for daily use in various settings.
With a 32-litre capacity, the NH Escape 500 offers ample space for all your essentials. The bags design is more practical for urban environments though, making it more suited for the city commute, as a cabin bag on a flight, or even as a gym bag. Its simple yet effective layout also makes it a great option for students as a school or college bag. The bag’s spacious interior allows for easy organization of books, gym gear, or travel necessities, and it offers sufficient comfort for carrying around all day.
The NH Escape 500 does have its limitations. It’s not designed for more serious outdoor activities, such as long hikes or climbing, as it lacks attachment points for equipment and doesn’t include walking pole holders for hikers. Additionally, there is the weight to consider.
At 1.1kg it is quite heavy in comparison to a lot of daypacks made for outdoor pursuits and over any reasonably longer distance is not too comfortable after a while. It performs well enough for the odd trip out to the countryside but the weight for us makes this way down the list for an outdoor activity bag.
In summary, the Quechua NH Escape 500 32L Daypack is a highly versatile option that can be used for a wide range of activities, from walking and hiking to city commutes and travel. While it may not be suitable for more demanding outdoor adventures, it excels in many other areas, proving itself to be a reliable and multi-functional daypack. It would get the best daypack for travel if we had such a category.
Conclusion
The best way to waterproof a rucksack will be to use bag liners for precious cargo, a rain cover and maybe use some waterproofing spray for the outer rucksack fabric.
A Daypack rucksack is a go-to accessory for everyone. Its most prized feature is perhaps the versatility – allowing you to use the pack in a wide range of activities. The best day rucksack keeps your essentials close to hand – whether you are hiking, trekking, or simply commuting to work. Our review of the best day rucksacks above offers an excellent lineup of different models based on your needs.
Review Guide – What Features Make The Best Daypack
No doubt most day rucksacks feature a versatile design – allowing you to use
them for multiple activities. Nonetheless, you want to at least have an idea
of how you intend to use your day rucksack. This allows you to choose the
right design for your needs. Our buying guide below offers a breakdown of the
key features to look out for to find the best day rucksack.
Size
Generally, day rucksacks come in sizes ranging from 10 to 30 litres.
Typically, these day packs are ideal for day walks, hikes, expeditions, and
commuting. However, due to their relatively small size, they aren’t ideal for
weekend trips that require gear such as sleeping bags. But, you can still use
these day packs for weekend trips that require simple items such as clothing,
water, food, and other small essentials.
Common Features
Different rucksacks come with different additional features. In fact, this is
an essential category to focus on as these additional features determine the
functionality of the pack. Amongst the common features include.
Rain Cover
If you plan to use the pack in wet conditions, you want it to be equipped
with a rain cover. The cover allows you to protect the bag during rain and
tuck it away in a built-in pocket when not in use. But, if your pack doesn’t
have one, you can always invest in a separately bought one.
Hip Belt
To enjoy load distribution and stability, you want to look for features such
as the hip belt. After all, nearly 70% of your load rests on the hips. Thus, a
pack with a hip belt supports the load on your hip area. Particularly helpful
if climbing or scrambling as it keeps the bag from swinging over your
head!
Internal Framing
The hip belt is not all that enhances support and distributes the weight.
Larger day rucksacks feature an internal frame to distribute weight and
support the hips to maintain an upright walking posture.
Compression Straps
For the best day rucksack, bulkiness can be an issue; you don’t want your
backpack to weigh you down. Thus, investing in a day pack with compression
straps goes a long way. Adjustable compression straps allow you to pull them
tight enough to reduce the volume of the pack and prevent movement of the bag
during walks or runs.
Chest Straps
You want a pack that doesn’t cause discomfort even when it has been on your
back for a long time. In this case, you want to focus on details such as back
and chest (sternum) straps. Ideally, you want the straps to be adjustable and
padded for optimal comfort. The padded shoulder, chest, and back straps evenly
distribute the load.
Extra Storage Space
Packs designed with extra storage space enhance convenience as they offer
different spaces to fit in your gear. For example, a pack equipped with
external clips and hooks is useful for cyclists and hikers – allowing you to
attach tools such as daisy chains, walking pole hoops, and LED lights.
You can also separately invest in carabiners to attach to the backpack’s
hooks or clips. Alternatively, you can opt for multiple internal and external
pockets. For community day rucksacks, added protective compartments such as a
laptop sleeve are also useful.
Reflective Piping
If you plan on using the pack in low light conditions or at night, choose one
with reflective piping. The reflective piping enhances your visibility for
added safety.
Fit
You have to make sure your day rucksack fits properly. To help achieve a
perfect fit, you want to look for the right features. These include adjustable
back, shoulder, and sternum straps. To make sure the pack fits properly, fill
it with items to simulate your trip and check how it rests on your back. If
the bag is too big, it will sit too low on your back – even when
adjusted.
Additionally, to ensure you find the right fit, opt for a gender-specific
pack. Typically, female-specific packs feature a shorter back due to the
typically smaller female torso. Furthermore, go for a pack with S-shaped
shoulder straps and less distance between the two straps. This design helps
to fit the smaller female body.
To make sure your pack fits properly, do the following –
- Make sure the shoulder straps and hip belt are in line with your
shoulders and hips - When you fasten your hip belt, the pads should sit on your hips – the
belt should be snug enough for the belt to hold the weight - Adjust the shoulder straps to fit tightly (without being too tight) – you
don’t want the pack to be too loose - Make sure the sternum/chest strap is in line with the front of your
shoulders – the pack should feel stable - To prevent the pack from pulling down and to centre the pack, pull the
top tensioners on the shoulder straps - Make sure the rucksack doesn’t limit your movement
Backpack vs Rucksack
In the UK, the terms “backpack” and “rucksack” are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two:
Backpack: This is the more general term and is used to describe any bag carried on the back, usually with two shoulder straps. Backpacks come in various sizes and are used for a wide range of activities, from school and commuting to hiking and travel. In the UK, “backpack” is the most commonly used term for everyday bags worn on the back.
Rucksack: This term is more specific and is often associated with outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or mountaineering. The word “rucksack” has German origins, where “Ruck” means back and “Sack” means bag. In the UK, rucksacks typically refer to larger, more rugged backpacks designed for carrying heavier loads over long distances. They often have additional features like hip belts, multiple compartments, and straps for attaching equipment.
In summary, while all rucksacks are backpacks, not all backpacks would be referred to as rucksacks. If you’re talking about an everyday bag, “backpack” is the go-to term, whereas “rucksack” is more likely to be used in the context of outdoor gear.
Rucksack vs Daypack
In the UK, “rucksack” and “daypack” are terms that refer to different types of backpacks, each suited for specific purposes:
Rucksack: As mentioned earlier, a rucksack is typically a larger, more robust backpack designed for outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, or camping. Rucksacks are made to carry heavier loads and often feature additional support such as hip belts, chest straps, and multiple compartments. They may also include attachment points for gear like sleeping bags, trekking poles, or ice axes. Rucksacks are versatile and can be used for multi-day trips where you need to carry significant amounts of gear.
Daypack: A daypack, on the other hand, is a smaller, lighter backpack designed for shorter outings, typically a single day. In the UK, daypacks are commonly used for day hikes, commuting, or short trips where you only need to carry essentials like water, food, a jacket, and perhaps some small personal items. Daypacks usually have a capacity ranging from 10 to 30 litres, making them compact and easy to carry without the need for additional support features like hip belts.
Key Differences:
- Size: Rucksacks are generally larger (often 30 litres or more) and designed for carrying more gear, while daypacks are smaller (usually 10-30 litres) and intended for lighter loads.
- Purpose: Rucksacks are used for multi-day trips or activities requiring more equipment, while daypacks are suitable for shorter, single-day activities.
- Features: Rucksacks often include extra features for comfort and gear attachment, whereas daypacks are simpler and more streamlined.
In summary, a daypack is a type of small rucksack designed for day-long activities, whereas a rucksack is a larger, more versatile backpack suited for longer trips and heavier loads.
Backpack vs Daypack
Backpack: This is a general term for any bag worn on the back with two shoulder straps. Backpacks come in a wide range of sizes and can be used for various purposes, including school, commuting, travel, or outdoor activities. In the UK, “backpack” can refer to anything from a small bag used for carrying daily essentials to a large, rugged bag for hiking or travel.
Daypack: A daypack is a specific type of backpack that is smaller and designed for short trips or daily use, typically for a single day. Daypacks usually have a capacity ranging from 10 to 30 litres, making them ideal for carrying just the essentials, such as water, snacks, a jacket, and personal items. They’re commonly used for day hikes, city trips, or as carry-on bags during travel.
Key Differences:
- Size: While a backpack can vary in size from small to large, a daypack is specifically a smaller backpack (typically 10-30 litres).
- Intended Use: A daypack is designed for short, day-long activities, whereas a backpack could be used for anything from daily commuting to multi-day hikes or travel, depending on its size and features.
- Capacity: Daypacks are compact and meant for carrying light loads, whereas backpacks can be larger and used to carry heavier or more extensive gear.
In summary, all daypacks are backpacks, but not all backpacks are daypacks. A daypack is simply a small, lightweight backpack suited for day trips, while a “backpack” is a broader term that encompasses all sizes and types of bags worn on the back.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I Need a Daypack Rucksack?
If you plan on taking one-day trips or adventures such as hiking or running, a day rucksack is ideal. Some of the best day rucksacks even feature a versatile design. Thus, you can even use them for daily commuting. Day packs come in a size range of about 10 to 30 litres depending on your needs.
2. Do I Need a Gender-Specific Sack?
It depends on your preferences. However, it is a good idea to get a gender-specific rucksack to enjoy optimal comfort and support. For example, female-specific rucksacks feature a more S-shaped strap that fits their bodies. Men’s rucksacks have a rather parallel shape to fit their bodies. Additionally, the hip belts on female-specific rucksacks sit a little higher to mould to their hip shape whilst their backs are shorter than the broader men’s backpacks.
3. What Size Rucksack Do I Need?
The size of your day rucksack depends on what you intend to use it for. For example, for activities such as running or cycling which don’t take a whole day, a 5 to 15L pack is ideal. A 15 to 30L pack is perfect for daytime walking, hiking, or trekking. But, the sizing needs vary based on the belongings you carry for activities such as commuting.
Ali
As an editor for our camping website, Ali brings a wealth of expertise and a deep passion for all things camping, in the hope that every article is inspiring others to want to explore the great outdoors. With nearly 40 years of camping experience from caravans to tents and now a campervan, Ali has embraced every form of outdoor living and has knowledge that is both practical and extensive.
