Best Lightweight Backpacks of 2024
JUMP TO: ZPACKS ARC ZIP ULTRA | GOSSAMER GEAR MARIPOSA | HMG 3400 SOUTHWEST | OSPREY EXOS | AARN NATURAL BALANCE | ULA CIRCUIT | PA’LANTE JOEY | GREGORY FOCAL | BUYING ADVICE | COMMON QUESTIONS
Author: Sam Brilleman | Updated: Oct 31, 2023
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The Short Version
Best Overall: Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra
Best for Functionality: Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60
Best for Simplicity: HMG 3400 Southwest
Best on a Budget: Osprey Exos 48
Best for Long Hauls: Aarn Natural Balance Bodypack
Best for Thru-Hiking: ULA Circuit
Best for Fastpacking: Pa’lante Joey
Best for Comfort: Gregory Focal 58
The Long Version
On a multi-day backpacking trip, your backpack will be your closest companion during daylight hours. You want to get along with it. And it is a companion for whom there is very little compromise.
Luckily, our list of best-in-class backpacks includes a number of lightweight and ultralight entries to take the weight off your shoulders—in the most literal sense. Impressive advancements in product designs means that choosing a lightweight backpack doesn't require sacrificing comfort or carrying capacity.
Some of the best lightweight and ultralight backpacks do tend to have a sweet spot when carrying total loads no heavier than 30-35 lbs (14-16 kg). But such weights should be achievable on most multi-day hikes.
Possible exceptions include longer backcountry expeditions where resupply may not be possible, winter trips that demand bulkier gear, or desert hikes where excess water may need to be carried. Nonetheless our list also includes some innovative designs such as the Aarn Natural Balance bodypack, which has front packs that dramatically increase carrying capacity without making your back take the extra load.
If you love reading this article on the best lightweight backpacks then you'll likely love reading some of our other hiking and backpacking content:
Need To Know What To Look Out For?
Finding your ideal backpack can be a difficult task! There are a variety of designs and a huge range of possible features. And many features are marketed as being perfect for every consumer.
But are they really? When it comes to backpacking, less is often more! If you’re unsure which features you require or are confused by some of the terminology, then check out our detailed buying advice at the bottom of the page.
Best Overall: ZPACKS ARC ZIP ULTRA
WEIGHT: 24.7 oz (0.7 kg)
VOLUME: 62 liters
MAX. RECOMMENDED LOAD: 40 lbs (18 kg)
PROS: Ultralight, Basically waterproof, Customization options, Ventilation along back
CONS: Expensive, Not as cushioned as heavier backpacks
BEST FOR: Ultralight hikers
PRICE: $$$
The Zpacks Arc range of backpacks are easily among the contenders for best-in-class in ultralight multi-day backpacks.
They are uber-light, extremely customisable, and comfortable (as long as you keep your base weight well within the recommended range).
Their packs in that range are separated based on two main features: material (DCF vs ROBIC nylon vs Ultraweave) and access (top loading vs top & front loading).
In terms of material you can choose a Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF — formerly known as cuben fiber), Robic nylon, or Ultraweave. Ultraweave (or simply “Ultra”) is an exciting fabric and a relative newcomer to ultralight gear. Made from woven polyester, Ultra is quickly being considered as an equal to DCF in terms of performance. As the name suggests, it is indeed ultralight, while also being highly resistant to water, abrasions, tears, and UV rays.
The Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra line are among the first backpacks to employ Ultra fabric. It is the most durable option, but is slightly heavier and costlier than DCF packs like the Arc Blast 55 L, or Robic nylon packs, like the Arc Air ROBIC 60L.
The other factor distinguishing the backpacks in the Arc range is access. The original Zpacks design came with top access only (achieved via a roll top closure similar to what is seen on dry sacks) and a large mesh pocket on the front of the pack. This design is found on the Arc Haul Ultra (Ultraweave), Arc Blast (DCF), and Arc Air ROBIC (Robic nylon) backpacks.
More recent iterations from Zpacks include a front zipper access (similar to what is seen on travel backpacks) as well as a zipper enclosed front pocket instead of the mesh pocket. This design is now found on the Arc Zip Ultra.
The convenient front loading zipper and the super durable Ultraweave design of the Arc Zip Ultra make it our top pick from the Zpacks range. The front zipper makes it easy to pack effectively and we love having the option to use either the top access (convenient for accessing items during the day) or the front access (convenient for unloading at camp).
Best for Functionality: GOSSAMER GEAR MARIPOSA 60
WEIGHT: 31.5 oz (0.89 kg)
VOLUME: 60 liters
MAX. RECOMMENDED LOAD: 35 lbs (16 kg)
PROS: Ultralight, Lots of organization, Integrated hip belt pockets, Removable back panel doubles as a sit pad
CONS: No ventilation along back
BEST FOR: Those transitioning from a traditional heavier backpack
PRICE: $$
The Gossamer Gear Mariposa is another excellent lightweight backpack most suitable for carrying loads up to 30 lbs (14 kg).
It is ideal for those who like having several pockets to help organize their gear. In total it has seven pockets in addition to the main body. This includes integrated hip belt pockets on each side, a zippered pocket on the top flap, three pockets on the sides (two on one side and one on the other side), and a front mesh pocket.
The Robic nylon fabric used on the Gossamer Gear Mariposa is ultralight but pretty robust and durable. It is the same fabric as used on the ULA Circuit. Since Robic nylon is quite a bit cheaper than Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) — the Gossamer Gear Mariposa costs significantly less than backpacks like the Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra or HMG 3400 Southwest. Even though it costs less, the fabric still provides a great balance between weight, durability and cost.
The main pocket on the Mariposa is 36 liters and should be sufficient to carry most of your bulky items (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc). And if you are venturing into bear country, then the main pocket is also big enough to carry a bear canister.
You can read our detailed review of the Gossamer Gear Mariposa here.
Best for Simplicity: HMG 3400 SOUTHWEST
WEIGHT: 31.6 oz / 0.9 kg (white) or 34.5 oz / 0.98 kg (black)
VOLUME: 55 liters
MAX. RECOMMENDED LOAD: 40 lbs (18 kg)
PROS: Ultralight, Basically waterproof, Durable, Simple design, Integrated hip belt pockets
CONS: Expensive, No ventilation along back
BEST FOR: Ultralight hikers, Those who value simplicity
PRICE: $$$
The awesome HMG Southwest line of backpacks provide comfort, volume and durability all in an ultralight package. They are made from Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), a material that —although expensive — is extremely lightweight and waterproof. In conjunction with the fully taped seams and a roll-top closure, this ultralight backpack is near-on waterproof. Although, we always recommend using internal dry sacks for your gear to be sure (for excellent ultralight options consider the HMG Roll-Top Stuff Sacks or the Zpacks Roll-Top Dry Bags).
This ultralight backpack uses a minimalist style design, with a frame based on two curved aluminum stays and an internal foam back panel for comfort. While the set up on the HMG Southwest is more comfortable than many other ultralight backpack designs, it is still a minimalist design. We feel that it is sufficient for lightweight backpacking where loads won't exceed 30 to 35 lbs (13.6 to 15.9 kg). But if comfort - for example, extra padding or perhaps airflow behind the back - is your main concern, then perhaps look elsewhere.
We believe the HMG 3400 Southwest provides the ideal volume for almost all multi-day backpacking adventures. It has an internal pocket of 55 liters, with external pockets providing additional volume. The benefit of the additional space is that you won't need to overstuff the pack, thereby increasing comfort. However, if you are aiming to minimize your base weight, then consider the HMG 2400 Southwest which will save you 2 oz (58 grams) as well as a few dollars. Although the internal pocket on the 2400 Southwest is 40 liters, so you will lose 15 liters of volume compared with the 3400 Southwest model.
You can read our detailed review of the HMG 3400 Southwest here.
Best on a Budget: OSPREY EXOS 48
WEIGHT: 44.3 oz (1.29 kg)
VOLUME: 48 liters
MAX. RECOMMENDED LOAD: 40 lbs (18 kg)
PROS: Affordable, Widely available, Comfortable, Ventilation along back
CONS: Heavier than other packs on the list
BEST FOR: Those who value comfort and price
PRICE: $$
We like to think of the Osprey Exos 48 as providing a bridge between the worlds of traditional full frame backpacks and specialized ultralight backpacks. The Exos provides much of the comfort and many of the features found on traditional backpacks, while weighing considerably less. This makes it perfect for those looking to start shedding a few ounces from their base weight.
The Exos is not as lightweight as many of the other backpacks found on this list, but it is also — arguably — more comfortable for carrying mid-weight loads (e.g. 30 to 40 lbs).
As is typical of most Osprey backpacks, the Exos is flooded with features. This is actually sometimes one of our gripes with Osprey packs — the number of straps, pockets, and flaps can sometimes get a bit unwieldy and irritating.
That said, all these bells and whistles can be great for packing and organizing gear, especially if you find most ultralight packs to be little too bare bones. The flip top lid has both an external and internal zippered pocket. There are attachment points for trekking poles, an ice axe, and a sleeping pad. You’ll find additional web loop attachment points on both the lid and front of the pack for attaching additional pieces of gear. The hip belt features two zippered pockets. There are also multiple entries to the large stretchy mesh side pockets.
A particularly useful feature is that the flip top lid on the Exos is removable. This adds versatility around how you can choose to use the pack — there is an integrated thin flap jacket cover that means you can still cover the top of the bag when the lid is removed (i.e. to seal it off from rain).
But the real strong point of the Exos is not its features, it is its comfort. Particularly for mid-weight loads that other ultralight backpacks on this list would start to struggle with slightly. Many of the ultralight backpacks on this list begin to get a bit uncomfortable with loads above 30 lbs. The Exos however has a well ventilated back panel and foam hip belt that helps to distribute loads in that range more comfortably.
Note that the Exos also comes in a women’s specific version known as the Osprey Eja Pro. It also comes in a range of volumes: 38, 48, and 58 liters.
The Exos is produced by one of the world's most popular and well-known backpack manufacturers. It is therefore both slightly cheaper and more widely available than some of the slightly more niche ultralight backpacks on our list, hence it has been awarded the Exos our Best Buy on a Budget. But in all honesty, our heart lies with other backpacks on this list. If you are into lightweight backpacking and are willing to spend a little more money, then aim for one of the lighter more specialized backpacks on our list.
Best for Long Hauls: AARN NATURAL BALANCE
WEIGHT:
50 oz / 1.41 kg (without front packs)
60 oz / 1.70 kg (with front packs)
VOLUME:
59 liters (without front packs)
74 liters (with front packs)
MAX. RECOMMENDED LOAD: Not specified (but at least 50 lbs / 23 kg)
PROS: Comfortable, Waterproof, Heaps of volume
CONS: Heavier than others on the list, Fiddly to get set up
BEST FOR: Those who require lots of volume, Those who struggle with back pain
PRICE: $$$
The Aarn range is an innovative line of packs designed to change the way you carry a load on the trail. Like all Aarn packs, the Natural Balance consists of a backpack and two detachable front packs.
The system is designed so that the center of gravity (of the overall weight of the pack) is passing directly through your hips and legs. This means you do not need to counterbalance your backpack using your own body weight. This helps to keep your balance centered, thereby improving mobility and reducing stress on your shoulders and back.
The Aarn Natural Balance is the lightweight model of the large capacity packs in the Aarn range. The volume of this pack is pretty massive. Including the front packs, the small and large versions provide 74 and 83 liters of volume, respectively. To improve the counterbalancing, we suggest loading heavy items such as water and food in the front packs. This also makes them convenient to access on the trail, without having to remove the pack.
For shorter trips, with a total weight under 33 lbs (15 kg) we suggest considering one of the ultralight backpacks in our list, for example, the Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra or the HMG 3400 Southwest. But if you are going to be carrying big and/or heavy loads - or you have back problems - then the Natural Balance's innovative design could dramatically improve your overall comfort on the trail.
The Natural Balance comes with internal dry sack linings to ensure this pack is fully waterproof. However the dry sacks can be removed if you want to save weight.
For more details on the features of the Aarn Natural Balance (e.g. it's comfortable hip belt and frame) as well as more info about its innovative design, check out our full review.
Best for Thru-Hiking: ULA CIRCUIT
WEIGHT: 37.3 oz (1.04 kg)
VOLUME: 68 liters
MAX. RECOMMENDED LOAD: 35 lbs (16 kg)
PROS: Great value, Durable, Functional design
CONS: Heavier, Below average ventilation
BEST FOR: Long distance trekkers and thru-hikers
PRICE: $$$
The ULA Circuit is one of the most popular lightweight backpacks amongst thru-hikers on the major US long-distance trails. And with fairly good reason. It is comfortable, and strikes a good balance between weight and durability. It is also a bit cheaper (but also heavier) than some of the ultralight backpacks we recommend, like the HMG 3400 Southwest or the Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra.
The Robic nylon fabric and the mesh back panel used on the ULA Circuit are tough, so you do not need to worry about treating this backpack gently. The only downside of the durability and construction of this pack is the added weight. If you are a thru-hiker looking to minimize your weight and counting every gram, then there are lighter packs out there that you may wish to consider. Nonetheless, the ULA Circuit is still in the lightweight category, and with it you get a bit of extra volume and comfort than some of the ultralight packs.
The ULA Circuit comes with a harness that can comfortably support weights up to around 30 lbs (13.6 kg). Although loads above 30 lbs can be handled, we wouldn’t want to carry them for prolonged periods. The back panel on the ULA Circuit doesn't allow for any airflow, but we don't see this as an issue. However if you prefer airflow then packs like the Osprey Levity, Osprey Exos, or Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra - which include a ventilated mesh back panel - may be better options.
The ULA Circuit comes with inbuilt hip pockets on both sides. ULA Shoulder Strap Pockets can also be added, but incur additional weight (1.8 oz / 51 grams, per pocket) and cost.
ULA Equipment offers several torso lengths and hip belt sizes so that you can dial in the right fit. If you are between torso lengths, then it is possible to shift the hip belt up or down the back panel.
Lastly, if you are set on a ULA Equipment backpack but looking for something even lighter then check out the ULA Ohm 2.0 (34.5 oz / 0.98 kg, 63 liters).
Best for Fastpacking: PA’LANTE JOEY
WEIGHT: 13.9 oz / 0.39 kg (Robic nylon) / 14.8 oz / 0.42 kg (Gridstop)
VOLUME: 24 liters
MAX. RECOMMENDED LOAD: Not Specified (but best at 15 lbs or less)
PROS: Ultralight, Perfect blend of function and style
CONS: Expensive, Lower volume, Only great for ultralight loads
BEST FOR: Fastpackers with a dialed in ultralight kit
PRICE: $$
The small, stylish, and highly refined Pa’lante Joey quickly developed a cult following among fastpackers. Fastpacking titan Joe McConaughy swears by the Joey: he used it while setting wildly impressive fast known time (FKT) records on the John Muir Trail, the Appalachian Trail, and Vermont’s Long Trail.
But with a scant 24 liter capacity, you need to have your ultralight setup really dialed in to get the most out of the Joey. With no frame or hip belt, the pack does not take well to loads greater than 15 lbs or so. Your base weight should be not much more than 8 lbs, a target that will have you considering tarp shelters, foam sleeping pads, and cold-soaking your meals.
For dedicating ultralighters and fastpackers, though, the Joey is in a league of its own. It is expertly tuned into the peculiar preferences of the fast and light crowd. Our favorite details include the shoulder pockets designed to fit 1-liter Smartwater bottles, the bottom exterior stash pocket, the generous mesh pockets that fit all your on-demand essentials, and the cavernous roll top main compartment.
The Joey is pricey for a 24 liter pack, and is also only available in one size. But despite being designed hyper-specifically for fastpacking, its combination of function and style make it extremely versatile. It is perhaps the best purpose-built fastpacking pack ever made, but you’re not just paying for a niche-activity pack, as the Joey is also excellent for bike commuting, day hiking, and traveling. Read our full review here.
Best for Comfort: GREGORY FOCAL 58
WEIGHT: 42.3 oz (1.2 kg)
VOLUME: 58 liters
MAX. RECOMMENDED LOAD: 35 lbs (16 kg)
PRICE: $$
BEST FOR: Backpackers looking for lightweight options without sacrificing comfort
PROS: Great comfort and ventilation
CONS: Heavier, Durability is not great
Gregory has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best manufacturers of feature-packed backpacks with a more traditional bent, so it is exciting to see them begin testing the ultralight waters.
The Gregory Focal 58 is not quite in ultralight territory, but its 44.4 oz weight is extremely impressive given the comfort, support, and feature set on offer. The Focal looks like a classic backpacking pack, with a floating lid, plush hip belt and shoulder straps, and lots of pockets. It even has a suspended mesh back panel to facilitate ventilation. Though on the heavy end of lightweight packs, the Focal is comfortable and distributes weight far better than its ultralight competitors.
Made of somewhat thin 100D and 210D nylon, the Focal doesn’t earn top marks for durability, though this is perhaps an inevitable sacrifice from a pack this reasonably and this comfortable while maintaining a relatively light weight. The Focal (and the women-specific Facet) is, like the Osprey Exo 48, excellent as an initial foray into ultralight backing, especially if your base weight is not yet trim enough to be compatible with the more minimal packs on this list.
BUYING ADVICE FOR BACKPACKS
The following describes some of the features and design aspects you can look out for when purchasing your new pack. Hopefully this helps you to understand some of the industry jargon and navigate towards YOUR perfect backpack setup.
ACCESS
Most lightweight backpacks will have one main compartment for storage. Access to the main compartment is usually via a top opening, although some designs also provide zippered access from the front of the pack (like the Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra).
The top access on most ultralight backpacks is secured using a roll top closure, like found on a dry sack. This design is both simple to use and helps to keep water out.
On slightly heavier packs the top access may be secured using a drawstring or a zipper. If this is the case, then usually the top of the backpack will also be covered by a “brain” (like on the Osprey Exos 48). A “brain” is a top flap that acts as a lid over the main compartment and usually includes one or two pockets providing additional storage.
STORAGE
Most backpacks will come with some kind of external pockets in addition to the main compartment. Most common are a front mesh pocket, a top pocket above the main compartment (i.e. a “brain”), and side pockets. Other common additions are pockets on the hip belt or shoulder straps — sometimes these can be purchased separately if they aren’t already integrated.
However some backpacks will instead aim for simplicity. For instance the Aarn Natural Balance has just one main compartment and that is it — if you want additional storage then you have to be wearing the Aarn Balance Pockets.
You want to find your ideal balance between convenience and complexity. Some storage outside the main compartment is useful, but too many pockets can sometimes be unnecessary.
Some people can’t live without hip belt pockets for snacks. Other people can’t live without side pockets for storing their water bottles. Try out different designs and see what works best for you!
ATTACHMENT POINTS
Some backpacks come with attachment points that allow you to attach sharp, bulky or dirty items onto the outside of your pack. If the ability to carry certain items on the outside of your pack is important, then look for a backpack that has these features.
Common examples of attachment points are those for trekking poles or an ice axe. Sometimes these come inbuilt like on the Osprey Exos 48 or sometimes they are custom additions, like the Zpacks Trekking Pole Holsters or the Gossamer Gear Bungee Attachments.
Many packs also have daisy chains along the shoulder straps, which can be used for attaching shoulder pockets or a drink bottle holder. Compression straps along the side of the pack, sleeping pad straps at the base of the pack, and daisy chains on the hip belt are also very common.
Sometimes the number of straps and attachment points can get overwhelming. Ideally you only want the attachment points you need or think you will realistically use. Otherwise they will just add unnecessary weight and complexity.
Many ultralight packs (including the backpacks on this list) do a good job of limiting the number of attachment points or at least making them removable. Sometimes simpler is better!
FRAME
Only the most serious ultralight hikers should consider a frameless backpack. If you plan to carry more than 20 lbs (9 kg) in total, then you should opt for a backpack with a lightweight internal frame. Lower-volume packs made for fastpacking and super-minimal outings, like the Pa’lante Joey or Ultimate Direction Fastpack 30, forgo a frame and hip belt. This saves weight and creates a running-friendly design, but limits the utility of these packs to lighter loads and shorter trips.
A frame allows you to carry your load more comfortably. This is because the frame helps to distribute the weight evenly between your shoulders and hips. Other than the Joey, all of the backpacks in our list include some form of lightweight frame. Some packs, like the HMG 3400 Southwest utilize a removable frame.
BACK PANEL
There are two predominant designs when it comes to the back panel of your backpack:
FOAM BACK PANEL: The first design uses a cushioned back panel that sits directly against your back. This is generally quite comfortable, but allows little ventilation. Backpacks using this design include the HMG 3400 Southwest or ULA Circuit.
“TRAMPOLINE” BACK PANEL: The second design uses a “trampoline” style back panel. A mesh panel sits against your back whilst the backpack itself is suspended slightly away from your back using an arc in the frame. This provides about an inch of space between your back and the main contents of the pack.
When designed well, a “trampoline” style back panel can be comfortable and allow more ventilation. The Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra, Osprey Exos 48, and Aarn Natural Balance are all examples of backpacks using a trampoline style back panel. The tension of the Zpacks back panel is highly customisable, but the Osprey and Aarn packs use a softer mesh panel that is arguably more comfortable.
HIP BELT
A hip belt should carry most of the weight when your backpack is fully loaded. This helps to keep your shoulders from carrying too much weight (which can quickly get tiring and also restricts your movement).
A hip belt should be adequately padded both in the front of your hips and around the lower back. If you have a small butt, or often find packs slipping down at the back, then look for a hip belt with a reasonable amount of lumbar padding or one that allows additional lumbar support to be added (like the Zpacks Lumbar Pad).
Most manufacturers offer hip belts in a variety of sizes, so be sure to choose the hip belt that fits your hip/waist measurements.
WATERPROOFING
You want to make sure that the majority of your gear is protected from the elements, including rain. Some backpacks are made with waterproof materials and even have taped seams (e.g. Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra or the HMG 3400 Southwest). However, you should never rely entirely on the waterproofing of the pack itself. You should always still store your import gear (e.g. sleeping bag and clothing) in waterproof dry sacks or use a pack liner.
Backpack rain covers still seem to be relatively popular, but we definitely wouldn’t recommend them. Rain still gets in around the edge, they can fall off when they get caught on scrub, they are unnecessary once the rain stops, and they make access unnecessarily difficult. We recommend using dry sacks or a pack liner instead.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Did our buying advice provide a little too much food for thought? These questions should help you cut right to the chase in finding the best lightweight backpack for you
What are the differences between a lightweight backpack and an ultralight backpack? Lightweight backpacks are designed to reduce the overall weight without sacrificing comfort and features. They often have multiple internal pockets, extra features like trekking pole attachments, and almost always have a frame, padded shoulder straps, and a weight-bearing hip belt. Ultralight backpacks are designed to be as light as possible: they are designed with lighter (and more expensive) fabrics and minimize features, zippers, pockets, and frames.
What is the maximum recommended load for a lightweight backpack? The maximum recommended load for a lightweight backpack varies between models. But you can expect one to safely and comfortably carry up to 30-35 lbs (14-16 kg). Ultralight backpacks (with no frame and less overall comfort) are best with loads under 20-25 lbs (9-11 kg).
How do I choose the best lightweight backpack? The best backpack for you will depend on your backpacking goals, your experience level, and your other gear. It is helpful if you make your backpack your last big gear purchase when you know the weight and volume of your kit. As a general rule, a heavier and bulkier gear list requires a heavier (ie. more supportive) backpack. Also think about the features that best fit your preferences: things like a hydration bladder sleeve vs water bottle pocket, a zipper vs top-loading main compartment, and lots of pockets vs a more streamlined design.
What is a good backpacking base weight? Your base weight is the weight of all of the gear in your pack, not including water, fuel, or food. A base weight of about 10 lbs (4.5 kg) or less can be considered ultralight, while 10-20 lbs (4.5-9 kg) would be classified as lightweight. Your total pack weight then depends on the climate, the duration of your trip, and your preferences, but aiming to stay under 30-35 lbs (14-16 kg) is a good goal when getting started, and is what most lightweight backpacks are designed to carry comfortably.
MORE INFORMATION
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